Old Town Books’ Annual Summer Reading Guide
There’s a moment every year when summer starts to feel real, and for us, it’s when the stacks of advance copies take over the store, the spreadsheets multiply, and conversations about books get a little more… spirited. Our annual Summer Reading Guide is the result of months of reading, debating, and refining. This year’s guide includes something for every kind of reader.
Let’s Graduate: Memorable Graduation Gifts
Graduation is a special time of year celebrated by both students and their families. Whether it’s kindergarten, high school, or college, graduation season is filled with excitement, pride, and celebration. Whatever their next chapter holds, Patina has gifts to help commemorate the occasion.
Before You Say “I Do” Again: What Remarriage Really Means for Your Estate Plan
I need to tell you, as your attorney friend who has seen what happens when this conversation doesn’t happen: the moment you say yes is the moment your estate plan needs your attention. Not eventually. Now. This isn’t about being unromantic. It’s about understanding what the law does to your assets—and to your children’s inheritance—the moment you sign a marriage certificate, whether you’ve thought about it or not.
New Shoe Line: Favorite Daughter at The Hive
I have decided 2026 is the year I am going to change up the shoe selection at The Shoe Hive. We have been doing this for almost 24 years now and I decided this fall we are bringing in 4 new brands to the store. Look for more information on those newcomers later, but for now, we are kicking it off with our first new brand, Favorite Daughter.
A Special Day with Maison Venu
I’ve fallen in love with Maison Venu and am so happy about bringing another incredibly talented maker into the Boxwood family. Supporting designers with meaningful stories behind their work has always been one of my favorite parts of what we do here. Come meet Olivia, shop her stunning textiles, and stay for a moderated conversation on Wednesday, May 27th.
A Graduate’s Guide to Graduation Gifts
This year’s graduation gift guide was curated by the true experts: actual graduates. Inspired by Episcopal High School interns Sadie and Evie Jane, we’ve rounded up their favorite picks—from handmade Maayaz bracelets and Clare V. bag charms to everyday staples from AMO, Back 70, Krewe, and more. Stop by to shop thoughtful gifts at every price point, and congratulations to the Class of 2026!
The Return of the Home Library: Why cozy, character-filled spaces are making a comeback in luxury homes
For years, open-concept layouts and ultra-minimalist interiors dominated home design trends. Formal sitting rooms disappeared, walls came down, and homes became brighter, larger, and more streamlined. But lately, a quieter trend has been making its return: the home library.
Are You On Board The Rosé Revolution?
Rosé has come a long way in the past thirty years. I remember the days working in the wine industry, long before I had my own wine shop, when consumers would give me the stink eye if I asked them to taste a new rosé at the tasting table. Fast forward to today and many people still think rosé is sweet. Some can be, but the vast majority of rosés on the market are made in a dry style.
Bangs Are Never Just Bangs
Every few months, someone sits in my chair, pauses for a second, and says: “So… I’ve been thinking about bangs.” Usually followed by nervous laughter. As hairstylists, we know this moment well because bangs are rarely ever just about hair. They tend to show up during seasons of transition. There is something emotional about changing the hair around your face. And lately, bangs are everywhere again.
Sale on Sale: Memorial Day Weekend Deals at The Hive
Starting Thursday, May 21 through Monday, May 25, all current sale items are an extra 30 percent off. If you can’t make it in, you can always shop online and grab it when you are home, or we are happy to ship! Happy shopping!
Orders Received: What Military and Foreign Service Families Need to Know About Custody Before PCS Season
For two-parent families, a PCS is complicated. For families navigating custody orders, it can feel like a crisis. And every year—every single year—I hear from families who received orders in March, waited too long, and are now trying to sort out something that should have been addressed months ago. So let's talk about it now, while there's still time.
Get Out! (The Best Thing You Can Do for Your Strength This Season)
It's finally here! The season when Alexandria comes alive. And while this change in weather is a natural motivator to get us moving, I want to talk about something most people completely overlook in their wellness routine. It’s something that costs nothing, requires no equipment, and delivers benefits that some might find surprising. Morning sunlight.
Meet Glass House: The Chicest Way to Protect Your Sunglasses
When our Krewe rep, Katie, was in a few weeks ago for us to look at their spring collection, she had the cutest little case for her sunglasses. When we all asked her about it, we found out she actually owns the brand, Glass House. They are the cutest leather holders for your sunglasses that you can clip on your bag or toss in your bag.
How Much Wealthier Does Buying a Home Earlier in Life Make You?
Buying a home early in life is often framed as a lifestyle milestone, but new data suggests it may be one of the most powerful financial decisions a person can make, and reinforces a key principle in real estate: time in the market matters more than timing the market. The earlier buyers begin building equity, the longer they benefit from appreciation, loan amortization, and overall market growth.
Krewe Trunk Show at The Hive
I have carried designer sunglass brands and owned designer sunglasses my entire adult life, and Krewe is by far better in quality and style than any of them. Stop by and shop our Krewe Trunk Show Friday, May 15th through 17th and receive 20 percent off all Krewe sunglasses, including special orders. If you stop by Friday, you can shop with our wonderful rep Katie all day!
Street Style: Meet Ezgi Kaya of Seyyah
Seyyah is more than a jewelry shop, it is a love letter—to craft, to community, and to the women who make beautiful things. For founder Ezgi Kaya, opening Seyyah is the realization of a dream that began nearly a decade ago in her mother’s home in Turkey, with a single beaded necklace and a sense that something special was taking shape.
Inside One of Belle Haven’s Most Beautifully Reimagined Homes
From the moment of arrival, this extraordinary Belle Haven residence makes an unforgettable impression, embodying timeless sophistication, impeccable craftsmanship, and the effortless allure of country club living.
New Tibi Summer Arrivals at The Hive
Once again, we have another new Tibi delivery arriving in-store. This time it’s the summer delivery, and it is always a favorite of mine. They do a great short every summer, too, and this year is no exception.
An Intimate Birthday Tablescape with an Exotic Edge
When I was asked to design an intimate tablescape for a “friendor’s” 45th birthday, I was so honored. She shared a lookbook to get things started, and from there we ran with a vision that blended natural elements with a slightly exotic edge.
The Mazza Trunk Show & Anniversary Specials at Mystique Jewelers
It's hard to believe we're celebrating 35 years of Mystique Jewelers, but I am still just as excited as I was on day one. From trunk shows and buying events to little ways of saying thank you to the customers who have made all of this possible, May at Mystique is shaping up to be something truly special, and I'd love for you to be a part of it.