Looking back at last year, it was one of my toughest years, and also one of my best. At the start of this past year I could not have even dared to imagine the end would be as good as it’s been. I was in a part of my life that still felt very marred by life changes.

Every time I pick up a brush, I step into a world of quiet reflection. My studio transforms into a sanctuary where light reacts with form on the canvas. For me, painting isn’t about capturing every detail—it’s about evoking a feeling, a mood, something just out of reach. That’s why I’ve embraced Tonalism as both a method and a philosophy. 

As we step into 2025, home design is embracing a bold blend of personality, warmth and practicality. The era of sterile, overly minimalist interiors is fading, giving way to lived-in, welcoming spaces that prioritize texture, comfort, and individuality. Say goodbye to all-white everything and dark floors — 2025 is all about mixing modern sophistication with heirloom charm for spaces that feel both stylish and uniquely personal.

A handful of years ago, my wise and brilliant friend told me about her New Year’s Retreat. She took herself away for two days to focus on and prioritize developing her goals for the year, her family’s calendar, and her own wellness. It was one of those moments where you realize you’ve been doing life wrong. This. whole. time. 

“I love fashion, I love people, and connecting the two. There’s always been a stigma about there being a smell factor when you walk into a (consignment) store. I like to remove those perceptions and open people to a new avenue, especially when you bring in the savings factor. These pieces are a third of retail. Why would you buy a new dress when so many things are already here?”

For many, joy is in your family, and capturing the togetherness of family is a tradition we love. As the clock resets and a new year begins, there's magic in the air. It’s a fresh start, full of hope, new goals, and exciting opportunities. Capture this moment with fresh photos and mark the turning of a new chapter in your life.

With school closing for an extended break, and families all together, sometimes the ugly parts of what I do come floating to the surface, in particular child abuse. There is always a rise in abuse when children are home for prolonged periods. What can you do to help? This part is much easier – attend an uplifting party and fundraiser!

The fire that engulfed Madame Coco Chocolate Emporium, along with two other beloved women-owned businesses, marked a heart-wrenching moment for all involved. What began as an ordinary evening quickly transformed into a scene of devastation that would shake the very foundation of our community. And yet, even amid the ashes and ruin, there were glimmers of hope that reminded us of the resilience within and around us.

Located in the snowy landscapes of Rovaniemi, Finland, Santa’s Village brings the magic of Christmas to life every day of the year. Officially recognized as the hometown of Santa Claus, this enchanting destination in the Arctic Circle offers visitors an unforgettable experience filled with holiday cheer, adventure, and unique cultural traditions.

With a larger-than-life holiday display, a weekly fireworks show, and festive spa specials, MGM National Harbor is the ultimate holiday staycation destination. The property has transformed into a winter wonderland with activities for the whole family to enjoy and celebrate the yuletide season.

As you are reading this you might be trying to figure out how to get your last-minute Christmas shopping done. Well, look no further than Old Town Alexandria. If you are still trying to cross people off your list this late in the game, then you really have to buy for them in a brick-and-mortar store. I thought I would share how I checked a long list of people of all ages off my list—all in Old Town.

There’s always that one individual that makes you sweat come holiday shopping time – because they have absolutely EVERYTHING. They’re on top of trends and have the “it” gadget before it's available to anyone else on planet Earth, they also have a vintage collection that museums would fight over and they’re non-expressive and unimpressed (though polite), whenever it’s time to open your present. But…maybe they don’t have one of these:

Season’s greetings from your neighborhood bookseller, a 40-year-old woman who has, according to her Christmas list, leaned in to becoming a caricature of an eccentric bookshop owner. In addition to the following gift ideas on my list this year (only some of which are truly strange), I have also included book recommendations to help steer your gifting this year. 

When I first walked into Reza Mohammadi’s tailored clothing shop, BARG Garments on 108 N. Alfred Street, I felt like I was visiting a friend’s home. He was very polite, always smiling and brought me a cup of tea and some chocolates when we sat down to chat. He had emailed me a few weeks earlier, curious to know more about the small business community in Alexandria.

I invite you to embrace the most accessible beauty secret: dedicating time to yourself. This practice not only redefines vanity but also nurtures the soul. In our fast-paced lives, we often wear our exhaustion as a badge of honor, neglecting simple pleasures like taking a moment to breathe or appreciating our loved ones.

Why does he always say he doesn’t need anything, and then looks sad when all the gifts under the tree are for the kids – and you! Surprise him this year with something unique and something he needs, not socks or a sweater, because you know your mother-in-law has that covered. Here’s a guide from our local experts:

Melonie Johnson is sitting on a bench outside Ada’s on the River. The morning fog has begun to lift and across the river we can clearly see the towering hotel at MGM National Harbor, where Melonie oversees all day-to-day operations as President and Chief Operating Officer. 

One of the biggest complaints an attorney hears from clients, or from clients switching firms is that their attorney didn’t get back to them often enough or fast enough. There are a variety of reasons for this, and I thought it might be helpful for a lay person to understand why.

I’m grateful for a wonderful week celebrating and reflecting on all the goodness that surrounds us…especially at Renée C. Gage Photography. There are so many women in our community that raise each other up to create, help and bring us all together! 

The magic of the holiday season comes alive in Europe’s iconic Christmas markets. From medieval settings to modern winter wonderlands, these festive markets are brimming with seasonal treats, handmade crafts, and unique cultural experiences. Here’s your guide to the best Christmas markets across Europe for 2024.