I’ve started to ask my sales reps a question: “What’s on your personal order?” They’ve had the most time to mull the collection and know what the stars are each season before the rest of us do! When Annette and I were riding back from NYC this summer we thought: I bet customers would like to know what we ordered for ourselves. So here it is!

I like to give my stores a personality. Each one is distinct. When we tell people that we own all three they usually see the resemblance, but for the most part, we’ve done a good job of imbuing them with their own unique personality. Honestly, figuring out who they will be is most of the fun. What do they look like? Smell like? Even sound like?

We are fortunate that we get to experience all four seasons in Alexandria. As we draw closer to October, our thoughts turn to fall and all it has to offer. One way to add a little fall flavor to your outfits is with your jewelry.

September 5 is National Cheese Pizza Day, but let’s be honest, we don’t need an excuse to indulge — we do it regularly! Pizza's rich history stretches back to the ancient Egyptians, Romans, and Greeks, who enjoyed early versions of flatbreads, much like today’s focaccia. However, the pizza we know and love today was born in Naples, Italy.

With the kids back in school, the kitchen has become a focus again — this is where the day starts and ends for many. Here a few tips to help everything go smoother in the morning (and after school), so you can find what you need and get to where you need to be on time!

We begin to lose muscle mass at age 30. It’s crucial to keep it!  We have been sold a line that if we sweat, we will lose weight. To many, sweat is the indicator of a “good workout” and you think strength training won’t make you sweat. But that’s simply not true. 

With the fall months closing in fast, a more potent fragrance with impeccable staying power is in order. If you’re unfamiliar with House Cire Trudon, allow me to introduce you. Sultry, intoxicating and infamously long lasting, their fragrances are second to none. 

After a busy kid-filled summer I made it into Era, Old Town's newest boutique nestled in the heart of Old Town Alexandria. As a wardrobe stylist, I have a different point of view when it comes to shopping because I'm not typically there browsing for myself. If you see me around town I'm typically shopping and researching for clients.

I noticed while watching the Olympics this summer that many of the TV personalities wore Veronica Beard. It’s preppy with a twist, classic without being boring, and tailored without being stuffy. It just makes getting dressed easier — especially if you have to wear a suit or go into an office occasionally, which many of our clients still do. Here are my top five VB picks for fall.

People are often surprised and curious about the span of our five boys and the adventures we have. The simultaneous life events that traditionally don't coincide and all the little moments in between remind us—this is what matters most.

One intention of the standardized testing program is to track a student’s progress against a baseline. What about adults? You’re doing all your homework—automated savings, maxing out retirement investments, regularly reviewing your insurance coverages – but what does it all add up to? And, at the end of the day…are you on track?

JLo and Ben Affleck. We all know those on-again, off-again couples. You might be surprised to hear that I have divorced people who have married their spouse, gotten divorced, married them again…and divorced again. All these headlines had me thinking about the process of getting a divorce in Virginia. Here’s what you need to know.

Janel is one of those women who just has a presence. Yes, she’s naturally beautiful, and I’ve seen her with hair up in a bun, clad in sweats and she still looks flawless (she’s my neighbor). It’s the energy she gives off, her openness; her eyes carry no judgment. She’s seen a lot, she’s experienced a lot, and it has given her tremendous empathy.

Whether you're ready to make a bold change or simply add a subtle touch of warmth for the season, let your choice reflect your inner vibe. Fall is all about transformation—not just in nature but within ourselves too—so why not let your hair be a part of that journey.

I’m about to say something radical and even those who know me best will be surprised: I need to throw out most of my wardrobe. I can’t tell you how many times I have bought beautiful things and they just sit in my closet. Tibi has really helped me conquer this problem and minimize my mistakes.

Indulge your soul in high-quality finishes and a rare detached garage with an in-law suite above (ADU!) The trim, millwork, casings, and craftsmanship is unlike anything you've seen in Alexandria.

“There just aren’t enough options,” said Katherine. “Christian schools and nondenominational schools are having a hard time. We are a classical program, low tech and we spend a lot of time outdoors. We have a gorgeous outdoor space to use…and we’re often outside building forts."

This week we're looking at kitchens and bedrooms. A good night’s rest and a great morning breakfast are essential for the school year. Here are some small and large changes to keep your student (and yourself!) on track.

On Sept. 7, Mystique Jewelers will host our inaugural designer jewelry show featuring the exquisite creations of Gumuchian, a trailblazing women-owned business. With the empowering motto of "Jewelry made by women for women," this event promises to celebrate the artistry and passion behind each piece.

Annette and I couldn’t resist the fall collection for Odeeh. I think there was clapping and jumping as we looked at it! Odeeh is a German line created by Jorg Ehrlich and Otto Drogsler. Their attention to detail and unique designs are deliberate and sophisticated. The designs are what first drew us in, but when you start looking closer it’s the fabrics that really made us fall in love.