I remember meeting Sue almost five years ago at Swing's coffee shop. She knew I owned Mind the Mat and she strolled over and introduced herself. I remember thinking how easy and natural it felt, like I was in presence of an old friend from the start. That's Sue, she's easy going and authentic. What you see is what you get, and what you see is long, gorgeous, silver hair, natural beauty, and a spark in her bright blue eyes that reflect a zest for life, great conversation, and laughter from deep within.Sue and I have always had a spontaneous relationship. We'll meet up on a whim, have lunch, or share a glass of wine on her back porch and talk and talk. Speaking of her back porch, it's attached to the hippest home I've ever seen. She and her husband John pretty much designed the whole thing themselves, blending modern basics with bohemian antiques. Next to her industrial kitchen, above her dining table, hangs a custom designed (by her) colorful chandelier that looks like it's from a land far, far away. Over-sized doors with faded paint, for a rustic look, lead into pristine bathrooms with all the latest modern luxury. In her living room, hand-sewn, embroidered (again, by her) pillows lay strewn on a vintage couch, recovered with gray velvet.Over the years, during our back porch chats, Sue revealed her vision for her home goods business, Tulusa. I was so inspired that we almost opened a home goods store together in Del Ray! I've seen Sue grow Tulusa from a dream to a reality. Just like her home, the Tulusa brand expresses Sue's artistic genius, which is really an extension of her essence -- warm, elegant, natural, and fun. If she invites you over for dinner someday you'll see that her artistry comes through in all she does, even her unbelievably delicious cooking which, like everything she does, seems to appear so effortlessly.I'm pretty sure the key ingredient is love, seasoned with the joy she feels when she is creating. 

ABOUT YOU

How do you spend your time? I’m in my studio whenever I can be. Other than that I’m running around with my boys or seeing music.

Neighborhood: Del Ray

How long have you lived in Alexandria: 17 years

What is your hometown? Wyomissing, Pennsylvania

What brought you to Alexandria? My (now) husband. We met in Colorado and after three dates he got a job offer here and off we went. It was a whirlwind for sure and we planned to stay for only one year and here we are 17 years later.

What would surprise people about you? I’ve seen more than 60 Grateful Dead shows.

You’re a superhero: what’s your superpower? In reality: making the fastest and yummiest dinner around. In my fantasy world, teleportation.

Favorite cocktail: Romarin at Le Diplomate or tequila on the rocks with lime

Last book read or movie seen: UGH, Show Dogs for my son’s birthday party

Guilty Pleasure: British crime dramas

Phrase you overuse: To my boys: lead with kindness, please.

Facebook or Instagram? Instagram

Latest binge-watch:Troy: Fall of a City

Bucket list travel destination: It’s a large target: anywhere in the Mediterranean.

If you only could have one for the rest of your life: wine or coffee? Um, no. 

FASHION

Define your style in three words or less: Simple. Modern. Paint-splattered.

The go-to piece in your wardrobe: Jeans

Favorite trend ever: Sneakers

Favorite current trend: Embroidery

Beauty product you can’t live without: Overnight Oil from Ever Skin Care

Favorite fragrance: Citrus essential oils

Heels or flats? Flats 

HOME

Favorite room in your home: My studio and the kitchen

Antiques, modern, or a mix? Mix

Last item bought for your home: Linen sheets

Next planned purchase: Plants for the garden

Favorite way to entertain: Cooking for friends and hanging out on the deck in the summertime

Clutter-free or well lived-in? Such a nice way to put it: well lived-in

Wallpaper -- yes, totally modern or no, so dated: Love wallpaper but prefer to block print my walls 

FITNESS

Your go-to work-out: Hawt Pilates at Mind the Mat

Most fun way to exercise: Same as above

Group exercise or solo: Group

Fitness goal: Good health

Haven’t yet, but might be willing to try with coaching / encouragement: A spin class

Proudest fitness achievement: Giving birth to two boys :-) It made me realize that I can do ANYTHING! 

ALEXANDRIA

Favorite spot in Alexandria: Our house

Last purchase in Alexandria: A gift for a friend at Red Barn Mercantile

Best coffee / happy hour / date night spot: Stomping Ground / The Majestic lounge / Captain Gregory's

Favorite charity: Mount Vernon Community School Playground Renovation fund

Favorite annual Alexandria event: The Halloween parade