Lifestyle Renée C. Gage Lifestyle Renée C. Gage

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.

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Home & Design Don Ripper Home & Design Don Ripper

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.


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Lifestyle, Events Alexandria Stylebook Lifestyle, Events Alexandria Stylebook

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.

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Style Elizabeth Todd Style Elizabeth Todd

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!

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Lifestyle Rainbow Kirby Lifestyle Rainbow Kirby

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.

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Lifestyle Britt Patterson Lifestyle Britt Patterson

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.

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Lifestyle Lauren O’Brien, CFP®, RICP®, CPA Lifestyle Lauren O’Brien, CFP®, RICP®, CPA

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.

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Lifestyle Katelin Moomau, Esq. Lifestyle Katelin Moomau, Esq.

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.

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