
40 Questions With Jamie Fortin, Founder of Friends To Lovers Bookstore
"I wanted a name that captured the charm of a romance bookstore. There are so many cute bookstore names out there—Meet Cute could have been an option, but it was taken in San Diego. I wanted something that invites the idea of friendship, like going to a book club with your friends. When you think of love and friendship, that's the vibe I wanted to create for this space."
Live Like a Celebrity
From grand estates to chic penthouses, here's a glimpse into the stunning homes that A-list celebrities have bought and sold through Sotheby's International Realty, each property showcasing unique style, elegance, and one-of-a-kind amenities.
Staging Your Home To Sell
A beautifully staged home helps buyers envision themselves living in the space, creating an emotional connection that can lead to more competitive offers. Addressing repairs and ensuring the home is spotless reassures buyers that the property is well-maintained, reducing concerns about future issues. These efforts not only enhance the home's appeal but also increase its perceived value, helping it stand out in a crowded market.
ArtSpireVa: The Arts For All
Year after year, students auditioned for the team with little to no dance experience, feeling discouraged after the first day and not returning. Those who did come back, despite their uncertainty, often grew to become some of the strongest dancers on the team. Gennifer knew that these students needed a supportive environment and access to arts education, which led her to create ArtSpireVa.
Fall Events You Won’t Want to Miss!
From spooky bike rides to vibrant fall festivals, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate fal. Whether you’re looking to support a good cause, snag some great deals, or simply spend a fun day with family and friends, these upcoming events have something for everyone.
Luxurious Elevator Townhome Living in the Heart of Historic Alexandria
Welcome to this rare, semi-detached townhome that defines luxury and convenience in historic Alexandria. Spanning four sun-filled levels, this spacious property is among the largest townhomes in the area, featuring the ultimate in modern living with elevator access to every floor.
You're Invited to Alexandria Fall Fest 2024!
The Alexandria Fall Fest is BACK! Join us on Sunday, November 3, 2024, from 11am to 4pm at the scenic River Farm for a day of unforgettable fun. Hosted by The Patterson Group and Alexandria Living Magazine, this year’s event is packed with activities for all ages, making it the perfect fall day for the entire family.
Fall Movies + Drink Pairing
What better way to embrace the new season than with a cozy fall movie night? I’ve seen a fun trend on TikTok where guests host movie marathons, each choosing a film and bringing a drink that complements the movie's ambiance. For instance, pairing a classic James Bond movie with a Vodka Martini, “shaken, not stirred.” See my take:
Finding Gilmore Girls in Old Town
As soon as autumn arrives, I always find myself rewatching Gilmore Girls, daydreaming about tasting Sookie's culinary creations at The Dragonfly Inn, or sharing a coffee with Rory and Lorelai at Luke's Diner. Since waking up in Stars Hollow isn’t possible, I thought—why not bring a bit of *Gilmore Girls* magic to Old Town instead?
Autumn Activities: Apple Picking & Vineyards to Visit
Even though Autumn doesn’t officially begin until September 22, the start of the month always brings a festive fall mood, making us eager to dive into seasonal activities like apple picking, vineyard visits, watching cozy fall movies, and cooking comforting meals.
For the Love of Pizza — In Alexandria
September 5 is National Cheese Pizza Day, but let’s be honest, we don’t need an excuse to indulge — we do it regularly! Pizza's rich history stretches back to the ancient Egyptians, Romans, and Greeks, who enjoyed early versions of flatbreads, much like today’s focaccia. However, the pizza we know and love today was born in Naples, Italy.
Listing Spotlight: 506 North Overlook Drive in Beverley Hills
Indulge your soul in high-quality finishes and a rare detached garage with an in-law suite above (ADU!) The trim, millwork, casings, and craftsmanship is unlike anything you've seen in Alexandria.
Labor Day Getaways & Activities
Summer break’s last big weekend is almost here. We want you to savor this gorgeous last weekend of summer break in the best way possible. Here’s a curated a list of perfect ways to celebrate in the DMV and a few nearby getaways.
Travel Around Virginia: Unique Resorts for an Unforgettable Stay
Virginia is home to some of the most incredible hotels and resorts, blending Southern charm with modern luxury. Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway, a family-friendly retreat, or a luxurious escape, these hotels and resorts provide the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable stay. See the guide our team curated.
Olympic Athletes from the DMV
With the 2024 Olympics lighting up Paris, you’ve probably been like us – glued to our screens in awe of the incredible athleticism taking place. If you have ever dreamed of a Gold medal (or Silver or Bronze because all are truly amazing), we have found the perfect spots around the DMV to learn, practice and train to become a future Olympian!
Listing Spotlight: A Masterpiece of Timeless Elegance in Alexandria
This exquisite estate spans 5,712 total finished square feet, designed by renowned Architect Thomson & Cooke and constructed by Castlewood in 2016.
The Best Waterfall Hikes in Virginia to Explore This Summer
Summer is the ideal season to explore Virginia and discover its abundant waterfalls. Here’s a list of some of the state's most beautiful waterfalls, complete with scenic hikes to satisfy your adventurous spirit this summer!
Hello Spritz Season!
There’s a reason the world loves a spritz, it’s light, refreshing and so easy to make. Whether you’re enjoying these by the Piscina “pool”, Spiaggia “beach”, Terrazza “patio” or Ristorante “restaurant” do as the Italians do and enjoy.
East Coast Beaches: Hidden Gems in Each State
The heat index keeps on rising, and with it nearing 100 degrees this week, we can’t help fantasizing about an escape to the beach, cool water and summer breezes. Here’s a comprehensive guide to beaches up and down the East Coast with estimated travel time, and recommended places to stay and where to eat.
Discover the Best Private Pools in Alexandria
Summer in Alexandria can be scorching. Here’s a comprehensive guide to pool memberships in Alexandria, ensuring you find the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the summer sun.