Normally, I use this space to talk about Art, but today I’m excited to introduce you to our framing studios and my business partner, fellow rock band member, and talented artist, Jeff Erickson. Together, we own Erickson & Ripper Framing and Del Ray Picture Framing. We also have some exciting news to share!

There are lots of great reasons to cut off all your hair. Going through a personal style crisis after having a baby is one of them. In the years since, I’ve had two more daughters and experienced similar moments of reinvention and rediscovery. It feels like each new baby challenges me to get back in touch with myself, my image, with what makes me feel seen and understood.

The work of play (if it’s good play) builds strong people. In his book The Anxious Generation, Jonathan Haidt describes the best kind of play as spending time outdoors wherein children decide what to do for themselves – they make up the games, competitions, crafts, and there is some risk of getting hurt. This helps build resilience while nurturing and strengthening all the things so inherent to children. 

Tricycles and bicycles are a staple on most holiday wish lists, so we wanted to make sure you got yours well in advance. This weekend, we are having a Banwood trunk show. We will have examples of everything they have and all the colors they offer so you can see them in person. They will be here well in advance of the holidays so you can delight your little people this season!

For many of us, autumn is a time of transition, and that shift can bring even the most composed home into a time of chaos! Here are some tips to help you ease into the transition.

Faux leather, vegan leather, pleather... call it what you like, but if you’ve been keeping an eye on the fashion scene, you’ve probably noticed that this alternative to leather is stealing the spotlight. Gone are the days when this eco-friendly alternative was considered just a cheap knockoff of the real thing. With fabulous brands like Generation Love, Pistola, and Lavender Brown leading the way, vegan leather is now all about luxe looks without the guilt.

When Emerson Fry introduced their denim line, Twin Doves, we knew we had to give it a try. The same foundations are true of their denim as their ready to wear line. They use quality fabrics and cuts that are wardrobe staples. They are also the softest jeans ever. Sometimes it takes time to “break-in” our jeans, but these already have that feel that you get after you have had a pair of jeans for a few years.

With chlorine, sun and salt water no longer wreaking havoc on our manicures, we’re all in for rocking some new nail looks this fall. Our hands are an extension of our daily look/vibe/mood and keep us feeling polished (pun intended) during the fall madness. While we’ve been out and about in Old Town, we couldn’t help but notice the vast range of shades and styles displayed on our friends’ hands. So we asked our contributors to share the fall hues they’re loving:

Your haircut is more than just a style—it’s a reflection of your personality, lifestyle, and most importantly, the unique features of your face. While many people think certain cuts are only for specific face shapes, the truth is, most haircuts can work for most people, as long as they are adjusted and tailored to the person wearing them.

I know that in Northern Virginia I’m preaching to the choir about voting. The majority of people who can vote in this area are already registered. Hell, registering to vote is the first thing some kids do when they turn 18. I know mine did. While those who can vote are likely registered, I still feel like it’s our responsibility to encourage voting every election cycle. The first thing to do is make a voting plan.

If you enjoy watching someone yell at the television, watch Love is Blind with a divorce attorney. I generally hide under a rock from reality TV, but it was interesting to watch. One of the biggest takeaways though is just how fast this show pushes people to get engaged. And while some people had the kids/no kids discussion, not everyone did. How can you not discuss whether or not you want children?

I am late in writing about our outlet, P.S. The Hive. I would love to say it's a new idea, but many of you might remember Treat, a store that was in Old Town I guess about a decade ago. The concept was basically to make a local outlet store for independent boutiques. Think Nordstrom Rack, but for all the little guys out there. That is basically what we are doing at P.S. The Hive.

The beautiful finishes set with brilliant gemstones and diamonds by designer Mazza are rich in Italian heritage of Torro del Greco, reflect a legacy that spans four generations and is enriched by his travels across Italy. Marvel at the meticulous craftsmanship evident in the bezel-set jewelry, burnished style settings, and distinctive Florentine finishes that effortlessly complement the carefully selected, one-of-a-kind gemstones in his collection.

Welcome to this rare, semi-detached townhome that defines luxury and convenience in historic Alexandria. Spanning four sun-filled levels, this spacious property is among the largest townhomes in the area, featuring the ultimate in modern living with elevator access to every floor.

Patina is delighted to share that we now carry Trudon. The company became known for their highly regarded candles, providing candles for well-known cathedrals and churches throughout Paris, boasting both long-lasting burn time, and flames which didn’t smoke. Since 1737, Trudon has been the largest and most respected wax manufacture in France and their know-how has evolved through the years, always keeping its strong historic traditions and values.

Last fall, I was commissioned to create a large landscape for a client’s home on the Eastern Shore, inspired by a small 18” x 18” study I had completed the year before. I was beyond excited. Not only was this client someone I’ve known for many years, but the study had always lingered in the back of my mind, almost whispering that it was destined for something greater.

The closest to reality TV I get is The Great British Bake Show. I love me some Pru and Paul. The Britts are just so nice to each other when competing. We can use more of that, don’t you think?!  Love is Blind is not something I would normally gravitate to, but since they are in D.C., we thought — what the hell let’s have some fun with it and play BINGO!

The Alexandria Fall Fest is BACK! Join us on Sunday, November 3, 2024, from 11am to 4pm at the scenic River Farm for a day of unforgettable fun. Hosted by The Patterson Group and Alexandria Living Magazine, this year’s event is packed with activities for all ages, making it the perfect fall day for the entire family.

Since our inaugural Heirloom Portrait session at Monday’s Child in 2020, the tradition of capturing timeless children’s portraits has evolved into a cherished event. With a special place in my heart for children, I love creating these timeless images. Heirloom Portraits are photographs you will hand down to your future generations. They capture the true beauty and spirit of a person…of a child…of a moment paused in time.

I kept seeing Suzanne Thibeault’s face on social. She was in group shots on LinkedIn, at openings on Insta…in recaps of networking events. Who was this woman? Then I saw her in person. I felt like one of the cool kids when I was invited to a VIP party for the opening of Atlas Brew Works and Andy’s Pizza in Carlyle, and there she was. I introduced myself by sharing that she was my professional girl crush, because she was making moves. She was not freaked out.