We’re lucky to have some amazing date night spots right here in Alexandria. And right now? It’s the perfect time to get out and enjoy them—the weather is brilliant, everything is green and gorgeous, and the vibe is just right. Trying to pick the perfect date night spot? My must-haves include a good bar setup!

I sat down with JLNV President Erica Gouse Bledsoe to talk about their incredible impact on local women and girls—from stocking free period product pantries to launching a first-of-its-kind teen leadership program. Find out how you (or a teen in your life!) can get involved in the next cohort and why Erica calls JLNV her “third space.”

Who doesn't love a good crêpe? Delicate, thin pancakes, nestled with sweet or savory fillings, have a story as rich and delightful as their taste. Crepes still hold significant cultural importance in France, and have become a symbol of French culture and cuisine. So, next time you're in Old Town, walk down the cobblestones to a taste of history and flavor at Fontaine and definitely pop into The Parlour for that ideal aperitif or digestif.

When we had moved to Corpus Christi, Texas, we didn’t know a soul. I wanted to contribute, to meet people, to find a way to give back to a school where my boys would attend and pave the way for other children and especially military families who would someday make their home on the island too. That first year, we created what would become The Seashore Project.

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.

I grew up in the South, where life basically happens under the sun. And to this day, I live for anything beachy: ocean breeze, salty air, coconut-scented everything, and a margarita in hand makes for a very happy Hattie. I love summer — give me a wide-brim hat, big sunnies, and a breezy dress, and I’m set. But over time, I’ve learned that looking good in the sun means protecting yourself in it, too.

Designed to highlight the brand’s unmatched global network and commitment to exceptional service, the Global Open House celebrated the art of real estate and the lifestyles it represents. The Patterson Group was proud to take part in this global event, opening three of our signature listings to the public.

Mark your calendar for an unforgettable night under the stars. On Thursday, May 29 from 6-8pm, the high-energy band Soulfire will take the stage at River Farm, the headquarters of the American Horticultural Society (AHS). It’s the perfect evening to enjoy great music, beautiful scenery, and a relaxed, community vibe.

“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 got a sneak peek at the refreshed Diablo’s Cantina—and let’s just say, this spot knows how to throw a fiesta! Picture this: salsa dance lessons, a live band setting the vibe, mouthwatering Mexican bites, and cocktails that looked almost too pretty to drink. The venue itself is a total vibe—spacious, beautifully designed, and with outdoor seating that makes everything better. There’s just something about sipping a cocktail in the fresh air while grooving to music that makes you feel like you’ve escaped to a tropical getaway.

Each year, Helen Olivia teams up with some of our favorite industry partners for an over-the-top celebration of St. Patrick’s Day. We’ve written about the bash—titled Erin Go Glam, a play on “Erin Go Bragh”—before, and we couldn’t resist sharing some behind-the-scenes details of how it came to life in 2025.

Alright, buckle up buttercups, because we're about to sprinkle some sparkle on the serious subject of staying fabulous when surrounded by folks who are, shall we say, less than dazzling. Think of it as your personal guide to looking like a million bucks even when the shade is being thrown your way!  

“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.’”

The only way to lure me to watch the NFL Draft is to tell me about all the fashion.  Extremely talented and fit male athletes in an array of fashion – from designer tuxes and studded crocs, to shorts and a polo shirt. It’s definitely all over the place!

This week’s new listings showcase the best of Alexandria living — from a waterfront retreat with a private dock to an updated single-level home just minutes from Old Town. Whether you're dreaming of a luxurious, resort-style escape, a private woodland haven, or a turnkey property with unbeatable convenience, these homes offer something special for every lifestyle.

At the end of a long day, parents just want time to take a deep breath. Then comes that ever so innocent, yet loaded question, “Mommy, can you play with me?” I am here to tell you that something as simple as playing catch or building a tower can help your child expand their vocabulary and develop essential social and cognitive skills.

The first Saturday in May? Pure legend in Louisville, Kentucky. With a week of events, parties, and plenty of seersucker, the Kentucky Derby draws out anyone with a flair for fascinators and a taste for mint juleps. The Kentucky Derby kicks off the three-race gauntlet of securing the elusive title – the Triple Crown. Lucky for you, there’s also a Triple Crown in investing—and this one’s actually within reach.

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.”

When I catch up with Drew, he’s walking Honey, his one-year-old Goldendoodle. I can hear the wind whipping as he shares, “I don’t get a lot of free moments…dog walks are how I destress. Otherwise, I distract myself with work and that’s like kicking the can down the road.” So he walks and talks to get out and grab some air. Understood, because he is head-down, working, working, as an entrepreneur and new business owner of Old House Provisions in Old Town. 

Martha Carucci, Executive Director of the National Breast Center Foundation, is always on the move. In the course of 24 hours, I bumped into her twice – at the Spring2ACTion kickoff event and at The Chamber ALX’s Coffee & Connections. Martha is the type of person that you can instantly open up to, and within minutes I found myself sharing how rattled I was by a friend’s recent diagnosis.