Beads of Courage: Capturing Strength, One Smile at a Time
When I was asked to photograph two “heart babies,” I had no idea how deeply they’d impact me. Capturing Bryce and Sophie for the US News and World Report campaign for Johns Hopkins Children’s Center reminded me what true strength looks like — and how much love can shine through even the hardest journeys.
Feeling 22: Celebrating 22 Years of Style, Community, and Confidence at The Hive
We’re feeling 22! 🎉 Join us as we celebrate 22 years of The Shoe Hive with 22% off everything, a special artist pop-up, and a heartfelt thank-you to the community that made it all possible.
Step Into the Magic: Boxwood Old Town’s 2025 Holiday Reveal
Old Town’s glow turns golden, the air stills, and then—holiday magic begins. Join us at Boxwood’s 2025 Holiday Reveal on Saturday, November 8, for a sparkling debut of this year’s treasures, table-styling demos with Brittany Zimmerman, and 15% off all Christmas décor.
In the Presence of the Sublime: Thayer’s Virgin Enthroned and My Awakening
Sixteen years ago an Abbott Thayer painting sparked off my midlife crises. After spending an uncomfortable amount of time alone with this masterpiece, I decided that I want to create Art that will move people the way this painting moved me. What I did not realize at the time was that the ripple effect from this realization would spill over into all aspects of my life.
Taking Weight-Loss Meds? Here’s Why Strength Training is Crucial
For many, the newest round of weight loss medications, including the GLPs, has been a godsend and a relief. It has represented, for many, a new lease on life. Individuals taking weight loss medications must prioritize strength training to ensure their weight loss is healthy and sustainable.
Celebrating Lonnie Rich’s Retirement: A Legacy of Leadership, Kindness, and Community
We’re celebrating Alexandria’s own Lonnie Rich—a leader, mentor, and community builder—as he embarks on his well-deserved retirement. His legacy reminds us to lead with purpose, live with balance, and always make time for what matters most.
Preppy Roots, Modern Style: My Fall Favorites from Ann Mashburn
Channel timeless, preppy perfection with fall favorites from Ann Mashburn — from Fair Isle sweaters to leopard prints and the jacket you’ll wear all season long. Plus, shop the exclusive trunk show at The Hive November 6–9 and save 20%!
Think Pink: Sotheby’s Celebrates Breast Cancer Awareness Month with Iconic Pink Items
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to honor strength, resilience, and hope. At Sotheby’s, pink isn’t just a color; it’s a statement of style, history, and rarity. From fashion to fine art to jewels, Sotheby’s has showcased an array of pink treasures, each with its own story.
What We’re Loving: Our Favorite Halloween Traditions
In Alexandria, Halloween isn’t just a holiday—it’s an art form. Streets glow with purple lights and iridescent spiders, 12-foot skeletons guard front yards and doorways, and friendly rivalries over “most creative” and “most extra” displays are in full swing. Before the candy rush begins, our contributors share how they celebrate spooky season in style.
Red Barn Mercantile Holiday Unveiling 2025: 10 Insider Tips for the Best Shopping Experience
We’ve been planning since January to bring you the most magical night of the season—our Annual Holiday Unveiling on November 6 from 6–9pm! I’m sharing my top tips to help you make the most of it, from snagging your favorites early to soaking up every bit of holiday cheer.
The Perfect Tee (Finally!) Has Arrived: Meet Sold Out NYC
I think I’ve finally found it—the perfect tee! After years of trying different brands, Sold Out NYC checks every box: flattering fit, amazing quality, and colors you’ll actually wear. We just unpacked a full selection, plus a few of their gorgeous sweaters and silk tops. Come see why we’re officially obsessed!
Convene Architecture Turns Five: How Teamwork and Vision Built a Thriving Firm
We’re thrilled to celebrate five years of Convene Architecture! What started as a small team with a big vision has grown into a thriving firm built on collaboration, creativity, and community. As we reflect on this milestone, we’re proud of the spaces we’ve designed—and the people who helped bring them to life.
Light, Love & Strength: Honoring Breast Cancer Awareness Month
This October, we’re reflecting on strength, style, and the power of pink. Join us in honoring Breast Cancer Awareness Month by lighting up your home—and your heart—with something meaningful.
Curls Unleashed: The deZEN Experts Share Their Secrets to Loving Your Natural Texture
This month, our curl experts share their favorite insights for caring for and embracing textured hair — along with their go-to products and rituals for bringing out the best in every strand.
Next ChaptHER: Women Redefining Wealth on Their Own Terms
What happens when powerful women talk money, purpose, and passion over steak and salmon? I joined the Next ChaptHER: Women & Wealth on HER Terms luncheon and left feeling inspired, informed, and ready to take charge of my next chapter. Read on for highlights and a few familiar Alexandrian faces who are redefining what success looks like.
Alexandria’s Architectural Gems: Old Town Innovation and Belle Haven Craftsmanship
Discover one of Old Town’s most extraordinary residences, the only home in the city featuring an elevator to all four levels, a private fenced yard with a jetted pool, and a separate apartment above a two-car detached garage. Completed in 2019, every detail reflects thoughtful design, timeless craftsmanship, and contemporary luxury.
The Big Chill – How to Freeze Your Credit and Why You Should
Women, in particular, are often the financial gatekeepers of their households—protecting your credit is one of the simplest ways to guard that financial foundation. Freezing your credit is a really useful—and very simple—way to protect your credit from fraudulent behavior.
Meet Claris Virot: Parisian Style With a Cool Edge
A Parisian brand with Bali roots has landed in-store. Claris Virot’s edgy yet timeless bags, belts, and buckles have us swooning—and we think you’ll love them, too.
Street Style: Meet Alexandria Mayor Alyia Gaskins
Mayor Alyia Gaskins made history as the first African American woman to serve as Alexandria’s mayor — and she’s just getting started. From public health and urban planning to City Hall, she’s reimagining what it means to lead with heart, faith, and community.
Independent Woman, Solo Traveler: Finding Joy (and Safety) in Going It Alone
I’ve always been independent when it comes to travel, but full solo trips still made me a little nervous — until I finally took the leap. From Key West to Copenhagen, I’ve learned that traveling alone is less about being fearless and more about being brave enough to go anyway. In this piece, I’m sharing what I’ve discovered about confidence, connection, and how to make solo travel feel not just safe, but truly joyful.