Alexander, Angelica, and Kelly aren’t just helping grow Alexandria Classical Christian Academy—they’re raising daughters in the same 4th grade class and making their mark in Old Town with style to spare. See our latest feature where these three share their story and show off their fall looks.

Run Geek Run is back for its 18th year! Lace up on Sunday, Sept. 28 for a race that brings community, fun, and purpose together, raising funds this year for Senior Services of Alexandria. As Race Director, Rita Foss says, “Being connected to your community by foot—that’s what matters.”

When her first lease deal fell through, Danielle Farrah thought her dream of opening a wellness studio was slipping away. Instead, it was the push that led her to create The Lalita Method in North Old Town—a boutique Pilates experience rooted in balance, design, and community.

Alexandria is packed with charm, history, and must-try experiences, so it’s no wonder friends and family are always dropping in. We asked our contributors to share their can’t-miss recommendations for visitors (and locals looking for a little staycation fun). See which ones made the list and add a few to your own itinerary.

How a restaurateur with heart is redefining what leadership looks like. Dan Simons shares why mental health, sustainability, and honesty belong at the center of the table—and how doing the right thing can still make good business sense.

 After building a career in tech, Angelika turned a creative family idea into one of Old Town’s most inspiring boutiques. Meet the woman behind Eliana Curated and discover how this local gem came to life—right on the corner of King and Patrick.

Jennifer’s path from international medical nutrition to personalized skin and wellness support is anything but ordinary. She’s a mom, a military spouse, a lifelong learner—and founder of Vitality-Led Health, where she helps clients uncover the root causes of autoimmune and skin conditions through functional nutrition. Get to know the woman behind the glow.

“No tickets, no gimmicks—just games, good food, and community.” Lifelong gamer and Alexandria native Allen Brooks is bringing a new kind of arcade to North Old Town. At Continues, it's not just about the consoles, it's about connection. From coffee and brunch to skeeball leagues and tabletop tournaments, this is your new neighborhood hangout.

Sleepless in Alexandria: Our contributors are staying up way too late — and loving it. See what shows and books are stealing their sleep this summer!

Award-winning country artist Steven Cade stopped by Carpenter’s Shelter to share stories, music, and hope — and to gift a guitar that could inspire the next voice of change.

Meet Melissa Riddy: a born-and-raised Alexandrian whose deep local roots, community service, and family-first mindset keep her grounded—whether she’s advocating for healthcare access, leading a nonprofit board, or hitting the ski slopes with her daughters.

From cross-country moves and art school rebellion to sailing adventures and soulful design—Kim of Patina shares her story of resilience, reinvention, and creating spaces filled with beauty, memory, and meaning.

From April Fool’s Day pranks to planning Reptile Day at Pippin Toy Co., Leann brings joy and spark to Old Town’s favorite toy store. This week, she shares how life led her to Alexandria, her top Disney tips, her daughter Lily’s toy evolution—and why she’ll never move farther south (unless it’s to Key West!).

Summer is calling and so are the open roads, coastal breezes, and mountain air. This month, our contributors are sharing the destinations that have captured their hearts and itineraries.  Consider this your invitation to dream, plan, and maybe add a few new spots to your own wanderlist. Check them out!

The man behind Alexandria’s award-winning transit system talks local favorites, unexpected facts, and what’s ahead for DASH buses and trolleys.

“Junior League has given me a new path that I’m super passionate about—connections with other nonprofits in the area,” Erica says. “The most rewarding part is being surrounded by like-minded women, who are diverse in background and all want to help their community.” Whether she’s organizing fundraisers, exploring Virginia wineries, or reading 150+ books a year, Erica’s story is rooted in purpose, curiosity, and connection.

I have a friend who jokingly asks if she’s in my “top five” list of friends. I, of course, always change the subject—I love too many people to rank (though I can rank-order my dogs). But as I sat down to write about Elizabeth Fitzsimmons, the “top five” thing popped into my head. If I had to pick five of my favorite people who have ever walked through the doors of The Shoe Hive, she would be on that list.

“As I get older, I want to know more and learn more,” says Katie Nguyen Wells. “I didn’t appreciate my culture as much when I was younger.” She left Vietnam as a toddler with her mother and brother, spending over a year in a refugee camp before resettling in Virginia with the help of her uncles.

“I didn’t want to only be known as ‘the girl who had been kidnapped.’ I went back to teaching in a traditional classroom until the pandemic hit. And that’s when people started asking me to speak virtually because they needed someone to bolster their teams and employees. I thought ‘I can do this again.’”

When Dr. Rina Bansal, President of Inova Alexandria Hospital and SVP of Inova Health Systems, joins us, she’s a vision in blue. She exudes confidence and rocks thick, high heels with ease – but I do notice the comfy pair of Rothy’s loafers nearby. “Burnout in healthcare is a huge problem,” she shares. “We want our people working in an environment focused on their wellbeing, as well as the patients.”