Perimenopause starts earlier than most women realize, often while they’re still deep in the parenting trenches. It can begin in our thirties and can last up to 10 years. Layer in your own hormonal shifts, and the smallest disruption can hit like a tidal wave.

A stranger wanders into my studio and tells me their daughter or son has artistic magic and that they might pursue a career in Art. Then comes the real question: What can we, as parents, do to make this happen?

When relationships end or tragedy strikes, loving grandparents can suddenly find themselves cut off from their grandchildren or the exact opposite being put into the position of being the primary caretaker. These heartbreaking scenarios leave grandparents wondering: Do I have any legal rights to see my grandchildren?

Run Geek Run is back for its 18th year! Lace up on Sunday, Sept. 28 for a race that brings community, fun, and purpose together, raising funds this year for Senior Services of Alexandria. As Race Director, Rita Foss says, “Being connected to your community by foot—that’s what matters.”

When we opened our doors, I thought I understood what the word community meant. But it wasn’t until that day, standing inside the corner of Old Town on Patrick and King St, that the word stopped being an abstract concept and started becoming something I could feel. Within days, we weren’t just a new boutique on King Street—we were part of a family.

Think Ulla Johnson is only about floral dresses? Think again. From must-have bags to statement jewelry, these accessories are flying off our shelves—and during our Ulla Johnson event (Aug. 28–Sept. 7) at The Hive, you’ll get 20% off every piece!

As the seasons change, many homeowners begin to consider listing their home. If selling is on your horizon, one of the most cost-effective and impactful improvements you can make is giving your walls a fresh coat of paint.  

When her first lease deal fell through, Danielle Farrah thought her dream of opening a wellness studio was slipping away. Instead, it was the push that led her to create The Lalita Method in North Old Town—a boutique Pilates experience rooted in balance, design, and community.

Alexandria Restaurant Week is back — and while the menus are stacked with delicious options, the real secret to a perfect night out is how you show up as a guest. Here’s how to add kindness, courtesy, and good vibes to your plate.

Tears, laughter, and a 13-hour road trip to Auburn. As I take my son to college, I’m holding the mess of emotions (and boxes!) while celebrating the gift of watching him fly. My heart is full, my eyes a little watery, but I know the world needs him.

Summer may be winding down, but fall is just getting started. Our trunk show season kicks off Labor Day weekend with Ulla Johnson—and that’s just the beginning.

We managed to sneak in one last family vacation before the school year began. We started in Seattle, where we enjoyed some classic sights like the Space Needle, Chihuly Garden and Glass, and Pike Place Market (I was obsessed with the dahlias!). Then we boarded a cruise to Alaska, a trip we’ve talked about for years.

This summer reminded me how easy it is to put myself last while taking care of everyone else. I see this every day in my patients too, and I’m on a mission to change it. From cancer recovery to pelvic floor therapy, I want women to know the issues we’ve accepted as “normal” are not.

If I had a dollar for every time someone said, “Social Security won’t even be there…” I’d probably be able to fund my own retirement. It makes me shudder, because it completely misunderstands how the program works and spreads unnecessary fear.

September holds its own kind of magic. Maybe it's the way the air begins to smell different, the way the light shifts, or those back-to-school vibes we never quite outgrow. Whatever it is, fall has this energy that whispers, it’s time for something new.

To live the Life of a Showgirl, a home must match that same level of drama, refinement, and spectacle. These Sotheby’s listings are more than luxury residences—they are architectural stages for a life of elegance, designed to impress, inspire, and entertain.

Halima is back with a stunning Ulla Johnson trunk show to kick off the season—our largest fall collection ever, filled with sets, silks, tweeds, and denim you’ll love. August 28–September 7, enjoy 20% off Ulla Johnson.

Alexandria is packed with charm, history, and must-try experiences, so it’s no wonder friends and family are always dropping in. We asked our contributors to share their can’t-miss recommendations for visitors (and locals looking for a little staycation fun). See which ones made the list and add a few to your own itinerary.

August marks the end of summer fun and the start of new routines, and for kids (and parents) that can be both exciting and overwhelming. These five tips—plus a few local store favorites—will help set your family up for a smooth, stress-free school year.

Alexandria is a haven for small business and microenterprise! Starting your dream business is exhilarating and exhausting, and often the boring details, like the legal paperwork are not a priority. I get it, no one likes dealing with attorneys. But here's the thing: these five essential documents are incredibly important.