Whether you’re planning a trip to the Crescent City or celebrating closer to home, Mardi Gras offers a unique blend of culture, history, and community. And “Laissez les bons temps rouler” means "let the good times roll,” a Cajun-French phrase that I’m going to be practicing…

When was the last time you edited that collection of mini toiletries? Don't overdo it, especially if you're staying in a hotel as there will be everything essential at your disposal. With Spring Break right around the corner, here are our suggestions for what NOT to bring on your next trip!

Forget four-leaf clovers, there is no better way to embrace the luckiest month of the year than to head to a casino and attempt to win big. MGM National Harbor offers the largest gaming floor in the DMV area, where colorful slot machine lights and cheers from the table games create an exciting buzz in the air.

Gala season is here! I love wearing gowns and dressing up, and spring in the D.C. area has lots of choices that raise money for good causes. There’s the “you gotta be there” gala hosted at the Hilton because they need a gigantic space for everyone that attends, and so many more events. Want a guide to Alexandria Gala Season? Here it is:

Being a guest or having a significant role at a wedding, gala, or any prestigious event is always an exciting opportunity to dress up, but it can also be a bit overwhelming when it comes to choosing the perfect outfit. With Mac Duggal’s collection at ERA, and our ability to special order your size, you can rest assured that you'll find a show-stopping gown that not only fits the occasion but also makes you feel confident and beautiful.

When I first got the call from a Discovery Plus producer and location scout, I was immediately intrigued that they were interested in using Boxwood as a backdrop for their show, Baylen Out Loud. Then my mind started running through scenarios…wait, how long was the shoot? But in truth, what store owner wouldn’t want their shop featured on TV? And it became more than serving as background scenery, I learned so much about Tourette Syndrome.

It’s hard to choose what pieces I love the most this season. But I must say: the winner of the season is the Rhodes Skirt and the Twyla vest. These were both on most of our personal orders. Needless to say, between our spring selection and what Ulla Johnson sent us for the event, there is something for everyone. See a preview with the Lookbook:

The Patterson Group is proud to present four exquisite new listings in Alexandria, VA, each offering a unique blend of luxury, comfort, and timeless elegance. Whether you're looking for a spacious colonial, a stunning custom residence, or a charming updated home, these properties showcase the finest in design and craftsmanship.

As time moves forward, so should your picture framing and art choices. Art and fashion trends shift, but the subjects remain timeless. Whether you’re updating your collection or incorporating inherited art, we’re here to help you stay on top of the latest trends while keeping your cherished pieces in style.

After a 14-month renovation, my husband and I were thrilled to move back into our home. We are enjoying our new kitchen along with the dining area and family room addition. But our biggest thrill was getting to sleep in our bed! Patina cannot emphasize enough how important it is to love your whole sleeping situation. 

Perimenopause. Menopause. Midlife. All about the same timeframe, between 40 and 55 years old. Thankfully, we are hearing more and more about it. While trendy diets and exercise challenges get your Instagram-scrolling attention, understanding your body’s chemistry is the true key to your success. Let’s break it down and explore why your hormones could be sabotaging your progress—and what you can do to win the weight-loss battle.

Years ago I took a profile test that identified our professional personality based on two quick questions. When my results came back, my profile was right at the top in bold: Controller. And you know what I bet feels really out of control right now? Being a federal worker. If you’re finding yourself at elevated stress levels due to the circumstances of the current federal workplace, here is a checklist of things you can do that are in your control.

Over the past 21 years AGL has built a very loyal following. They are made in Italy which means they are quality and comfortable. There are few shoes I can stand in all day, but AGL is one of them. The Italians are known for shoes for a reason; they know how to make them. They are female-owned and a third generation family-owned business. They know what women want when it comes to shoes. This weekend we will kick off our Spring Trunk Show Series with AGL — stop in and see us!

Of Alexandria, Todd says, “I was immediately impressed. It’s 276 years old and it's not a city stuck in the past. It honors its past and knows its roots, while firmly looking forward. There’s so much flair in this historical place, and it’s been so interesting to learn and experience each of its neighborhoods. Old Town, The West End, Del Ray…and the arts and cultural district that’s growing in North Old Town. Potomac Yard and Virginia Tech’s new innovation campus…

My vision of expansion has taken physical form: Salon deZEN’s second location is now open on Montgomery Street. We’re adjacent to St. Elmo’s, Sisters Thai, and Oak Steakhouse and around the block from AKA Alexandria. It’s such a vibrant area—there’s art, parks, new developments, and a friendly, active community—and we’re still in Old Town.

Art is emotional and complex, it’s individual, reminding us of a moment, a phase, an introduction, a feeling. It speaks to a mood, a transition, a passion – something that strikes you at first glance – and you know you have to have it. It stays with you, becoming a part of your personal landscape.

We still have March to get through, but I wanted to get an early start on the Spring Trunk Show series at The Hive and The Shoe Hive – especially since it’s our first spring all under one roof. We’re starting big. AGL, then Ulla Johnson and squeezing in Veronica Beard before people start heading off on spring break.

My husband Sam and I recently attended the wedding of a beautiful woman who I have been photographing since she was in her mama’s belly. To watch her grow over the years and flourish is a gift. Her mother’s words that day made me smile: ”I just love LOVE!” Enjoy your people in the here and now and – bottle those moments in time!

If you have been reading this blog for any length of time, you know I LOVE the Oscars. Every year we try to commemorate the occasion in some way. This year we are hosting our first ever Oscar’s Pool! Compete against friends, neighbors, our team, and complete strangers from around the country to win a $100 gift card to one of our three stores.

There are only about two months left until your individual taxes are due. Now is the time to go through your tax time checklist to make sure you are ready to go!