
Aligning Your Life with What Truly Matters in the New Year
About four years ago, I found myself completely drained. I was juggling the intense demands of raising a young child while navigating a high-stress job during COVID. Now, when anxiety arises I’ve learned how powerful it is to pause, breathe, and reflect on what truly matters. Reconnecting with my values has been a game-changer, offering a sense of grounding and empowerment that I strive to pass along to the women I work with.
Winter Sale: Four Ways to Style Items That Have Major Markdowns
If you missed our big announcement earlier this week, this year’s clearance is a tiered sale. If you buy one item you get 40% off, 2 items you get 50% off, and 3 items is 60% off. This year it’s even easier to shop since we have both stores under one roof now. Happy shopping and don’t forget to check out our new arrivals as well.
In the Stillness: My Journey as a Tonalist
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.
What’s In and What’s Out: Home Trends 2025
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.
Save the Date: Winter Sale at The Hive, January 3-12
It’s that time of year when all the stores are going on sale. It used to be the day after Christmas was the big day for sales, but now it seems like they start earlier and earlier. And since the holiday season has now passed, it’s time for some more markdowns. The more you shop the more you save starting Friday, January 3rd through Sunday, January 12th.
Cheers! One Reason to Switch to Tequila…and Three Reasons Not To
Move over vodka, tequila has taken over as the top drink of choice. Tequila was the fastest-growing spirit in 2022, with the United States being the driving force with over 60% of sales. What is leading this charge? Consumers are looking for a premium drink that won’t derail their health and fitness goals.
My New Year’s Retreat
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.
Inspired Trust as 2024 Comes to a Close and 2025 Begins
Early in 2024, my daughters and I each chose Little Words Bracelets to serve as personal reminders for the year. My word was “Trust.” That trust—both in me and in themselves—is something I deeply value. Here’s to stepping out of comfort zones and finding strength in trust as we move into 2025.
Street Style: Meet Alicia Valencia Erb of Vida Style
“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?”
Start the Year on the Right Frame
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.
The Heavy Side of What I Do – And an Uplifting Way For Us to Help Prevent It!
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!
This Holiday Sale Hits the Spot: 50% Off at Red Barn Mercantile, Penny Post and Pippin Toy Co.
We hope you are enjoying the holiday season! If you're still feeling festive and looking for a deal, our Holiday Sale will hit the spot! Holiday items are all 50% off right now. A few exclusions apply, but nearly everything is marked down.
Sweet Resilience: Madame Coco Chocolate Emporium and the Power of Community
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.
A Christmas Getaway: Santa’s Village in Lapland, Finland
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.
New Brand Alert at The Hive: ATM
I am always on the search for the perfect t-shirt. It has to be both the right thickness and the right cut. I can’t stand it when a t-shirt is too sheer or cut either too tight to the body, or way too boxy so it looks sloppy. It has to be that perfect in-between. I want to be able to layer it under a sweater or blazer but also to sometimes wear it alone.
Don’t Drop the Ball This NYE: Let’s Make This Celebration Sparkle!
This holiday season feels extra special for me – it’s our very first holiday season in business at ERA, and I’m absolutely buzzing with gratitude and excitement! As we count down the days to New Year’s Eve, it’s time to focus on you. This is the time to pick out an outfit that not only shows off your style, but also radiates all the excitement, confidence, and fresh energy you’re bringing into the new year.
A Holiday Getaway Just Across the Bridge at MGM National Harbor
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.
Stocking Stuffers You Can Grab In Old Town, Alexandria
My favorite part of opening presents is opening my stocking. I take a lot of time to find fun and interesting things for the stocking and luckily for me, you don’t have to go much further than Old Town. There are so many unique gifting options in Old Town, so skip Target and Amazon this year and SHOP LOCAL!
Outdoorsy Gifting for The Explorers in Your Life
If you’re holiday shopping for someone who enjoys the outdoors – a camper, a hiker, a wanderer, a stargazer, or an explorer of any sort, read on. I hope the guide will simplify shopping for the adventurers in your life and perhaps inspires you to do some exploring of your own!
How to Combat Winter Hair Woes: Your Ultimate Guide to Hydration and Shine
Winter in Alexandria can be beautiful, but it’s no friend to our hair. The good news? With the right care, your hair can stay hydrated, healthy, and full of shine all season long. Here’s a step-by-step guide to winter-proofing your hair, featuring must-have products we love at Salon deZEN.