This spring, we started concept design for the full basement and an upstairs office for the husband. Currently we’re nearing construction with Harry Braswell, Inc. to create some beautiful dark and moody spaces. We thought we would share how the home is evolving and the design process. 

Creating a portrait is not just about the technical skill; it’s about encapsulating the essence of the subject. Maria is more than a muse—she is a source of inspiration, a beacon of creativity. The challenge lies in translating her vibrant spirit onto the canvas. A tall order.

Whether you dread the summer months and steamy discomfort (yep, that’s me), or you love the summer (because free vitamin D?), or you are indifferent and maybe just tolerate it as the gateway to autumn (the clear winner of Mid-Atlantic seasons) - something we can all look forward to is Planner Season! 

One client dreamed of a traditional home featuring a light-filled dining bay overlooking a spacious backyard oasis. The other imagined a mid-century modern addition with a cool kitchen. We gave both homes a new vibe while maintaining their original essence…

Ever feel like your home could use a little extra something? It’s come together nicely and you’re happy with it, but…it needs a little oomph. Time to zhuzh it up! Take a look around your home or office. There are zhuzh opportunities everywhere!

If you're looking forward to traveling this summer and staying with family or friends, and you want to show your appreciation in a special and thoughtful manner, we have the perfect gift for you. These are items that will last much longer than that bottle of wine and will be a nice reminder of you whenever they see it in their home.

August 3rd is Stationary Store Day!! Mark your calendars now and make your plans to be at Penny Post early. Last year, we had a line of about 40 people strong as soon as we opened the door. When I say our paper people are serious about paper, I’m not kidding. We can’t wait to celebrate with you!

There’s a reason the world loves a spritz, it’s light, refreshing and so easy to make. Whether you’re enjoying these by the Piscina “pool”, Spiaggia  “beach”, Terrazza “patio” or Ristorante “restaurant” do as the Italians do and enjoy.

When our kids were born my husband waxed poetic about family road trips. He longed for the nostalgia of it (clearly, he doesn’t remember pain). On our first road trip with a small child, it didn’t take long for reality to set in. Traveling with kids is hard. For everyone.

Inspired by the beautiful, warm days and daydreams of vacation life, I've curated a vacation home mood board influenced by the best vacations, with a touch of bohemian design and coastal/lake living. Someday, we'll find just the right place to bring this scheme to life.

Summer in Alexandria can be scorching. Here’s a comprehensive guide to pool memberships in Alexandria, ensuring you find the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the summer sun.

We have all heard the African proverb, “It takes a village to raise a child.” Pippin Toy Co. wants to be part of your village. To do that this summer we have partnered with OWLS Therapy, a local speech and language therapy practice, to bring you a series of intimate workshops.

While the temps are in the 90s, we are happily making plans for our Showroom & Warehouse Sale in the fall. It will include new and vintage furniture pieces, art, lamps and accessories. Here’s a preview:

Before workshops were ever trendy, and way before Eventbrite was a thing, Marianne was teaching floral design. She built a cult following in Old Town, and each week a devoted group of ladies would clammer for a space in her class. Fast forward to today, workshops are still sacred to our team.

When we last met, I had signed a lease and was ready to get busy building. We had about a decade of experience with toys, but with what did we want to fill our store? The first decision we made was an easy one. No licensed merchandise.

Summertime means spending time outside by the pool, cozying up around a fire pit or hosting a backyard BBQ. Now is the perfect time to give your outdoor space a little extra love! Here’s how:

We've now hit that mark -- where we've moved the layout around a bit, know where all our items are stored, when the mail arrives, etc. --  and we're ready to celebrate our Grand Opening on Upper King! Join us this Saturday to toast to the journey and the strength of community.

We're seeking a local freelance/part-time project manager who is detail-oriented, enjoys job flexibility, has a strong connection to Alexandria, and possesses professional experience to proactively create better processes and project management tools.

Our week in Provence included visiting Cassis, Avignon, St. Remy, Uzes, Nimes and Isle-sur-la-Sorgue. Our last two days were spent relaxing and taking in the Provence laid back lifestyle. You start thinking – why don’t we live like this in Alexandria?

I see so many beautiful home transformations—with new concepts from our designers that I could’ve never imagined. I’m very envious because we renovated our home in 2018, and we did it ourselves. I made some choices that weren’t the greatest. I wish we had hired an expert or professional.