VIP Alexandria Magazine | November 2019

NOVEMBER 2019

Real Estate • Fall Tablescapes • Fisher House • Workspaces Redefined

NOVEMBER 2019 • 1

IT'S WHERE FAMILIES ARE RASIED & MEMORIES ARE MADE. NOTHING ABOUT BUYING OR SELLING YOUR HOME SHOULD BE STRESSFUL. THAT'S WHY YOU HAVE ME.

Kristen JONES

Kristen Jones | Licensed in VA 703.851.2556 kristen@kristenjones.com www.kistenjones.com 2 • VIP ALEXANDRIA MAGAZINE

Old Town Office | 109 S Pitt Street, Alexandria VA 22314 | 703.549.9292

Discover the Washington, D.C.’s Capital of Christmas Gaylord National’s Christmas on the Potomac is the ultimate holiday destination with over a dozen holiday events, spectacular decorations, amazing shows and more including ICE! a walk-through attraction carved from over two-million pounds of ice.

ICE! Featuring Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas! * NEW Reindeer Rush Tubing NEW Feast with THE GRINCH * Cirque Dreams * Ice Skating * Photos with Santa Mrs. Claus’ Christmas Traditions and much more!

NATIONAL HARBOR, MD

Overnight packages include unlimited entry into ICE!

ChristmasOnThePotomac.com | (301) 965-4000 TM & © 2019 Dr. Seuss Enterprises, L.P. All Rights Reserved. PEPSI, PEPSI-COLA and the Pepsi Globe are registered trademarks of PepsiCo, Inc.

NOVEMBER 2019 • 3

NEED MOVERS? MOVING IS HARD. WE MAKE IT EASY. It's not just "stuff", its your hard work and memories, and our job is to get your valued items to your new home safely and securely.

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MOVING - PACKING - STORAGE - JUNK REMOVAL - ESTATE SALES - MORE! It all began with a lone pickup truck servicing the Alexandria, VA & Richmond, VA areas. Since then, D1 Moving has grown exponentially.

Today our company has expanded to multiple locations, including an 85,000.00 square ft storage warehousing space in the Virginia area, along with a 20-truck fleet and 50 employees.

MILITARY DISCOUNTS We appreciate your service to our country. That’s why we offer military discounts to ease the cost burden of moving.. with OR without orders.

CONTACT US TODAY FOR YOUR FREE ESTIMATE! www.d1moving.com | (703) 608-9472 d1movingnova 4 • VIP ALEXANDRIA MAGAZINE

NOVEMBER 2019 • 5

Launching a dream is always a risky thing, and I can’t fully express the thanks I feel for how much love and support we’ve been shown with our inaugural issue. The response to our new publication has been overwhelming and amazing—nothing short of a dream come true. We can’t wait for what the future holds in store, and we’re exited that you’ll be along for the ride.

While thanks are being given, we also want to extend out deepest, most heartfelt gratitude to the many members of the military— both past and present—who have so selflessly given themselves to the service of our country and defending our freedom. These United States would not be the same without your honor, your bravery, and your sense of duty; and for that, we salute you.

In the next few pages, you’ll find stories of how organizations like Fisher House give back to these men and women and their families and be inspired by the partnerships of AFFN and DCUC in providing further support. As a month dedicated to military families, we couldn’t resist taking the time to highlight such special organizations.

Naturally, this also being the month of Thanksgiving and the official beginning of the holiday season, we’re all turning our attention to home entertaining. As this is our Fall in Love with Your Home issue, we’ve filled our pages with features on some of our area’s best real estate agents and teams, exciting tips for getting ready for the season, and great articles on all things home, here in Alexandria—the “land of hustle and heart.”

At home and at work, we carry that hustle and heart with us, and in this new era of the re-imagined workspace, places like Industrious help make us feel as though our work—our hearts and hustle and dreams—have found a home. Read on to find out their mission and the ways they’ve impacted the growth of our local workforce.

Again, we extend our thanks to all of you for the support you’ve shown us with the launching of this magazine. We can’t wait to spend the next years with you and highlight everything—and everyone—that makes Alexandria such a great place to live. Join us in the next issue for more fantastic reads, and get ready for the season with our #ShopLocal Holiday Gift Guide, coming soon!

kellie #DIDYOUKNOW

All issues of VIP Alexandria are available FREE on our website? www.vipalxmag.com vipalxmag

6 • VIP ALEXANDRIA MAGAZINE

vipalxmag

VOLUME ONE | ISSUE TWO

PUBLISHER Kellie Gunderman EDITOR Anne Charboneau CREATIVE DIRECTOR Regine Orme DIRECTOR OF SALES Lisa Delnegro ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Ashley Williams PHOTOGRAPHERS Jeremiah “JD” Davis Antonette Dimaiwat Julie Carrasco David D’Agostino Noah Haney Nicki Lewis Catherine May Taylor JD Watkins WRITERS David D’Agostino Yimali Gonzalez Alexandria Lindstrom William Lynch Jeanette Wages

DID YOU GET MARRIED THIS YEAR?

HAVE YOUR WEDDING

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issue

VIP ALEXANDRIA WEDDINGS

Email us at weddings@vipalexandriamag.com We will connect you with one of our professional writers who will help you share your love story in VIP Alexandria Magazine’s February 2020 Weddings Issue. We will also work with your wedding photographer to design your feature, ensuring you look just a beautiful in print as you did on your wedding day!

Accepting registrations through December 27, 2019

NOVEMBER 2019 • 7

coming SOON

IN THIS ISSUE

DECEMBER 2019 the

holiday issue FEATURING:

Local Holiday Gift Guide Holiday Recipes Holiday Fashion Tips Holiday Decor Winter Wedding Planning

ON THE COVER

William Lynch + Chase Whitley featured on page 46

MAINSTAYS 14 Calendar of Events 16 Dining : Paradiso Italian Restaurant 22 Health + Beauty : Fall In Love w/ Yourself 30 Back Beat : Sleep Car 36 VIP Wedding : Tess + Jeremy 64 Salute to Service: Fisher House / DCUC / AFFN 68 People You Should Know : Jennifer Hernandez 72 Homes : The History of Lee-Fendall House

FEATURES 42 Real Estate Profile : Kristen Jones 46 Designing the Perfect Fall Tablescape 52 Industrious : Love Where You Work 58 The Patterson Group: Holiday Traditions 62 SERVPRO® of Alexandria : When Water Invades

SALES@VIPALEXANDRIAMAG.COM 8 • VIP ALEXANDRIA MAGAZINE

76 The Art of Charcuterie 101 80 The Winter Village at Cameron Run

NOVEMBER 2019 EVENTS 10

Say Yes to The Trends by Monte Durham

12

Alexandria Chamber Professionals Breakfast

13

2019 Best in Business Awards

19

Prime Time Baseball Grand Opening

21

Pure Barre Pop-Up at Lost Boy Cider

25

Mount Vernon Fall Wine Festival + Sunset Tour

26

Kiskadee Fall Fashion Style Seminar

27

Art on The Avenue

28

Portside in Old Town Fall Festival

29

5th Annual Anything That Floats Race

32

The Buca Room Masquerade Ball

32

Carlyle House’s Tim Burton’s Wonderland

33

Yelloween at Cafe 44

34

Nightmare on King Street

35

Chadwick’s Monster Ball

40

Senior-Focused Business Network

44

Lee-Fendall House Halloween Pumpkin Hunt

45

AHS Fall Festival

51

AR Workshop Paint + Wine Event

55

Industrious Ribbon Cutting

56

Washington Nationals Celebration Parade

57

Run! Geek! Run! 5K Race

61

Alexandria Family Fall Festival

66

Freedom Day USA

70

Arlington Valley Fest

71

Hank’s OysterFest XII

74

Fall Festival at Greenstreet Gardens

75

Meet + Greet with the Budweiser Clydesdales

79

Cocktail Party at Mint Condition

80

Waterfront Beer Garden

NOVEMBER 2019 • 9

Fashion

| Say Yes to the Trends by Monte Durham

Story + Photography by Julie Carrasco

Monte Durham, an Alexandria resident and the fashion director of TLC’s “Say Yes to the Dress: Atlanta,” recently hosted a party for friends and guests in Old Town at Hummingbird Bar and Kitchen. Guests enjoyed light hors d’oeuvres and beverages while mingling with Durham.

A small fashion show, courtesy of Old Town Boutique District and Christopher Schafer Clothier, featured fall trends while Durham narrated. Durham also shared news of his plans to open a hair salon in Old Town, which he plans to name “MONTE.” Monte Durham

Monte Durham + Dan Via

Yelena Khotsevitch + Monte Durham

Maria Kessel, Nancy Fox, Monte Durham + Mary Brereton

Monte Durham + Debbie Bragg

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Shmide Conserve + Stephen Lester

Bret + A.J. Vandevoort

Former Mayor of Alexandria Allison Silberberg, Monte Durham + Joyce Bliss

Dawn Carter + Shannon de Luna

Jamie Cuevas + Monte Durham

Brittany Patterson, Monte Durham, Phyllis Patterson + Paige Patterson

Pia Bojanowski + Joey Jett

Stephen Lester + Dan Via Monte Durham with Christopher Schafer Clothier

Dan Via, Monte Durham, Stuart Perkins + Francisco Laguna

Kelly George + Yelena Khotsevitch

Dan Via, Monte Durham + Rod Rochowiak

Lucelle O’Flaherty, Monte Durham, Resa O’Flaherty + Allison Silberberg

Natalie Mueller, Monte Durham + Cecelia Wright

Mindy Lyle, Amy Jackson + Monte Durham

Ken Petty, Monte Durham + Meshelle Armstrong

Samantha Malandrino, Monte Durham + Rebekah Murphy

NOVEMBER 2019 • 11

Business

| Alexandria Chamber Professionals Breakfast

Story + Photography by Catherine May Taylor

The Alexandria Chamber of Commerce recently hosted a networking breakfast to help business owners and entrepreneurs meet new people in a fast, friendly way.

Attendees were encouraged to bring their business cards and practice their perfect pitches. Somewhat like a game of musical chairs, attendees moved from table to table to meet people throughout the community while learning what others are doing and accomplishing around the city. Guests also enjoyed plenty of coffee and a breakfast buffet to keep their energy levels high.

The opportunity gave attendees a chance to meet others who may have different backgrounds and approaches to their businesses, but different as their approaches might be, no one need feel isolated when realizing all are working toward the common goal of helping Alexandria grow in a positive direction.

Cheyanne Dwyer + Matt Lembright

Mike Morris + Mike Rosenow

Jennifer Weber, Samantha Malandrino, Jeff Fraley, Allyson Farnella + Taylor Byrd

Andy Reiman, Justin O’Donnell + Tim Young

Sunny Blanco + Zaneta White Lovie Patish + Katie Nord

Allyson Farnella + Jennifer Weber

Scott Ritter, Allen Schrimer + Joseph Haggerty

12 • VIP ALEXANDRIA MAGAZINE

Didi Russell + Brooke Ray

Ramona Ruiz + K Nacion

Patricia Class, Lisa Derkazarian + Ann McIntyre

Business

| 2019 Best In Business Awards

Alexandria Chamber of Commerce’s 2019 Best in Business Awards was presented by Burke & Herbert Bank.

Winners included Stephanie Landrum (Business Leader of the Year), The Goodhard Group (Overall Business of the Year), Tartan Properties Commerical (Small Business of the Year), Daniel O’Connell’s Irish Restaurant & Bar (Medium Business of the Year), Brandywine Living at Alexandria (Large Business of the Year), Del Ray Business Association (Non-Profit/Assocation Business of the Year), Threadleaf (Rising Star Business of the Year).

Indre Bauza, Patti Turner, Gin Kinneman, Trae Lamond, Mara Benner + Maria Ciarrocchi

Del Ray Psych + Wellness Team

Joe Haggerty, Nicole McGrew + Charlotte Hall

Tim Sands + Stephanie Landrum

Joe Haggerty, Sue Goodhart + Charlotte Hall

Maurisa Potts

For more information about, or to join, Alexandria Chamber of Commerce, please visit: www.alexchamber.com.

NOVEMBER 2019 • 13

November 2019 Calendar of Events NOVEMBER 13 - JANUARY 5

The Winter Village at Cameron Run

Open nightly, 4001 Eisenhower Ave. Glide across the ice at Ice & Lights, The Winter Village at Cameron Run in Alexandria, Virginia. The summer home of Great Waves Waterpark will be magically transformed from mid-November through February into a winter wonderland with an ice rink, beautifully lit photo ops, music and more! Grab a slice of pizza, roast a marshmallow over the fire pits, and enjoy the winter village! www.novaoparks.com

NOVEMBER 16

Torpedo Factory Anniversary Ball

7-10pm, The Torpedo Factory Dress to impress and celebrate like it’s 1919 or 1974, as the building turns 100 and the Art Center turns 45. Mikaela Lefrak, WAMU arts and culture reporter, leads a lively evening of art, music, dancing, film, performance, and memories. Meet some of the Art Center’s first artists at Target Gallery’s reception, wwing to the big-band sounds of Good Shot Judy, enjoy light fare and bar & more! www.torpedofactory.com

NOVEMBER 17

Holiday Crafting & Cookie Decorating Workshop with Sugar by Bri

2-5pm, AR Workshop Alexandria During this 3-hour Special Workshop, you’ll decorate 3 ThanksgivingThemed cookies. You’ll walk away with Sugar by Bri’s no-fail sugar cookie and royal icing recipes, your decorated cookies, and “cookier” tips and tricks. Switch from cookie decorating to crafting and get hands-on instruction to make your own mini 12” Round Lazy Susan, 12x16 Pedestal Tray, or NEW Mini Tray with Handles! www.arworkshop.com/alexandria

NOVEMBER 23

First Annual Old Town Cookie Crawl

11am-5pm, Various Locaitons Receive a commemorative tin and stop by all 16 stores on the crawl and receive a cookie at each location. It is fun for the whole family and a great way to explore Old Town’s walkable shopping district.

Tickets available at www.eventbrite.com 14 • VIP ALEXANDRIA MAGAZINE

EVERY OTHER WEDNESDAY: OPEN MIC NIGHT W/ SCOTT FALLON PARADISO ITALIAN RESTAURANT | SIGN-IN BEGINS AT 6PM www.theparadisorestaurant.com

NOVEMBER 21

Fall Harvest & Beer Pairing

6-9pm, Fairwinds Brewing Company Fairwinds Brewing Company & Wagon Wheel will join forces to create a lovely five course meal inspired by the warm flavors & aromas of autumn! Each course of his carefully curated menu will be paired with one of Fairwinds’ house beers. Limited seats so please grab your tickets quickly! www.fairwindsbrewing.com

NOVEMBER 30

Small Business Saturday | Customize your Wine for Gifts & Parties 5-10pm, Sonoma Cellar There’s this great winery in California that will help you customize your wine labels for any event. This is perfect preparation for the Holiday Season. For your guests. For your gifts. Bring your laptop and learn how to create your own specialized label. Make fun and cheeky gifts of wine. Have your friends/family love you for it! www.mysonomacellar.com

NOVEMBER 23

Alexandria Cider Festival 1-5pm, Office of Historic Alexandria Enjoy a selection of ciders from more than 10 Virginia cideries. Ticket includes tastings, a souvenir glass, live music, and fun fall activities.

Food truck available. Dress for the weather – this event is outdoors! www.visitalexandriava.com

NOVEMBER 23

Alexandria Tree LIghting Ceremony

6-8pm, 301 King St. Kick off the holiday season with free music and dance performances and a visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Admission is free. www.visitalexandriava.com

NOVEMBER 2019 • 15

Fall In Love with Paradiso An interview with Eddy Santiago Story by Yimali Gonzalez | Photography Submitted by Paradiso Italian Restaurant

“The answer is YES. What is the question?” When you step into Paradiso Italian Restaurant you’ll likely be greeted by a charismatic man who will make you feel more like you’re at a second home than a restaurant. When he isn’t doting on customers, you can catch him cheering on the staff, flipping a pizza, or singing. His name is Eddy Santiago, and he is the face of Paradiso. His answer to exceeding your expectations is always: “YES.” Paradiso’s story began almost 30 years ago when Santiago’s parents-in-law, Tony and Julia Amato, converted what was once a hardware store, then a gas station, then a post office into a nearly 10,000 square foot warm and welcoming restaurant.

Paradiso’s charms extend beyond ambiance with its fresh, authentic Sicilian recipes including handmade sauces, doughs, and pastas that enrapture the palate.

Santiago first fell in love with food when sixteen, asnwering phones at local Dominos Pizza. During the 23 years since, he has worked both front of house and back of house positions, and he astutely understands all layers of working in the hospitality industry. With his passion for the culinary arts and for people, Santiago now propels the family’s legacy forward.

“I breathe it. I bleed it. We have to deliver on people’s hard work and sacrifice.”

Hospitality is the driving force for Paradiso. “I breathe it. I bleed it. We have to deliver on people’s hard work and sacrifice,” Santiago said. If a family struggles to save money to go out for dinner once a month, that meal has to be something special – not merely a meal, but an experience. To give people that special experience, Paradiso is undergoing a metamorphosis, a restructuring and rebranding that is building momentum.

Santiago’s new chef and team know Paradiso’s most important people are the customers who walk in the door. Paradiso’s website 16 • VIP ALEXANDRIA MAGAZINE

and menu are also undergoing changes, and the restaurant has added more events to appeal to the community.

Paradiso has something for everyone. Whether you seek relaxation or entertainment, with or without kids, Paradiso has an amenity or event for you. The space is divided into three rooms plus an outdoor patio. Therefore, at Paradiso, you can hold a business

meeting, sip tea in a quiet corner, listen to live music and have some drinks, or enjoy a family date night. Or, if you’d rather enjoy a kid-free romantic meal or a girls’ night out, kids can eat and play in Paradiso’s supervised kids’ playroom which features a kid-friendly menu, Disney movies, and activities. Paradiso also offers an open mic night, blues night, local talent night, poker night, karaoke night, seasonal themed events, lunch buffet, and Sunday brunch. The lunch buffet and Sunday brunch are Paradiso’s best kept secrets, with more than 40 fresh, hot, and ready items for under $14 per person.

all over the world with sustainable construction, maintenance expertise, and clean water. Chances are while at an Alexandria event, unbeknownst to you, you have already tasted some of Paradiso’s delicious Sicilian delights!

Another way Paradiso stands out from other local restaurants is its immersion in the community. Paradiso often partners with local breweries, distilleries, and wineries. Recently, Paradiso offered a Fair Winds Brewing Company dinner by matching each menu item to a different beer. Paradiso also gives back to the community by providing food to various fundraisers and organizations such as The Journey church, Edison High School, Animal Allies, and the Lee High School Varsity Football team.

With The Journey, Paradiso helps fundraise for The Living Water Project, which empowers ministries and communities NOVEMBER 2019 • 17

18 • VIP ALEXANDRIA MAGAZINE

Sports

| Prime Time Baseball Grand Opening

Story + Photography by Noah Haney

Get your bats ready, because Prime Time Baseball has arrived to help you get your swing on! Former baseball star Chris Berset and partner John Skaggs recently hosted a grand opening event for the new facility, which offers expert training and a travel baseball club for Northern Virginia. The event was open to the public and featured a ribbon cutting and the opportunity for attendees to test their batting and swinging prowess against the professionals.

Prime Time’s indoor facility provides an opportunity for players to develop their skills year-round and is located on Eisenhower Avenue near Landmark.

Sara Berset + Beth Halley

Chris Berset, Pat Malone + John Skaggs

Brandon, Colton + Jenny Brass

Shane Halley + Kevin Reeves

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11/7/19 10:03 AM

Wellness

| Pure Barre Pop-Up at Lost Boy Cider

Story + Photography by Catherine May Taylor

fall fashion

Pure Barre came to Lost Boy Cider recently for a pop-up session, and participants not only got in a wonderful workout, but enjoyed a pint of cider as well. Alyson Foster, who is the studio manager at the Pure Barre Alexandria location, led the pop-up and gave participants help and adjustments when needed. Lost Boy’s inviting interior, with its natural light, was perfect for the morning class. The class featured mostly mirrored, core-based pilates moves, while regular Pure Barre classes typically use ballet bars or similar objects. Pure Barre workouts are low-impact, but high intensity, and are offered Story by Alexandria LIndstrom | Photography by Sarah Marcella at all levels.

Elizabeth McGehee + Alyson Foster Alex Newham

Q+A with Stephanie Parkes

Alyson Foster, Shells Karle + Sherry Cusano

Tristan Wright

Britta Brown + Natalia Riggin

Clarissa McIntyre, Blake Tomlinson + Anika Doehl Blake Tomlinson

Britta Brown

Shells Karle

Anika Doehl

Natalia Riggin

NOVEMBER 2019 • 21

Fall In Love With Yourself Treating your body like a temple; a place to calm your soul Story by Jeanette Wages of The Wellness Cooperative

22 • VIP ALEXANDRIA MAGAZINE

You always hear that your body is your temple, but I believe your body is more like your home. It was designed as a place to make your soul comfortable, a place for your inner self to shine through the beautiful windows. So why do we run ourselves down instead of treating our bodies with as much care, maintenance, and desire for beauty as our home? And how can we change that?

How do we fall in love with ourselves like we do our home?

is simple: hydrate and get a rock star skincare routine that fits your skin’s needs. This should include cleansing, exfoliating, and moisturizing. I love to get a facial at least once a month to get a deep cleaning, to see if my skin’s needs have changed, and to make sure I am maintaining the best regimen for my skin during that time of the year. Yes, your skin’s needs change!

Step One: Home Maintenance Home maintenance is key to keeping any house running and functioning properly; the same is true for your body. When we have clogged pipes, creaky doors, or malfunctioning appliances, we don’t waste any time getting them repaired. When we have achy muscles, upset digestive systems, or problems with our skin, we toss these problems to the side and consider them part of getting older. It doesn’t have to be that way!

All good self-maintenance begins with what fuel you put into your body. Food is the basis and core of how our bodies look and feel, and let’s just go ahead and put out there that food is also a form of pleasure and can bring us emotional joy. There is no one easy diet that works to make everyone’s body function at its highest potential, so don’t worry, I’m not about to tell you to go completely plant-based or keto. Just eat what feels right for your body and enjoy treats in moderation. If you don’t know what feels right or how to do that, call a plumber! Or in this case a health coach. What we eat affects our energy, mood, skin, and much more. Make sure you are eating for your body!

Now let’s work on getting out those creeks, dings, and dents in your home – or your muscles. When was the last time you got a massage? If you can’t remember or it’s been so long you can feel your muscles yelling at you while you read the word “massage,” you are doing your body a huge disservice. Massage is more than taking a nap while someone rubs lavender oil on your body. Massage helps with sore and knotted muscles, lymphatic drainage, circulation, and releasing chemicals and hormones in the body to make you feel happier and either more alert or relaxed. Sounds a little more necessary now, doesn’t it?

Step Two: Beautification Even for those of us who aren’t always Instagram ready, we love our homes to be clean, beautiful, and give off a sense of self. Our bodies should be the same way. From what we wear, how we style our hair, how we maintain our bodies and so much more, our appearance tells the world a whole story about us. And as much as we might hate to admit it, our look and our auras/vibes are the first things people will notice about you. Let’s make sure we are painting a picture we want people to see.

The most crucial and noticeable step anyone can take to up their “curb appeal” is having flawless skin. Let’s face it, with great skin you can rock a messy bun, cozy sweater, and no makeup and still look ready to take on the world. In addition, your skin is your largest and most visible organ; you wouldn’t let your walls and foundation look less than perfect. Keeping your skin happy

Once you have a base of amazing skin, your makeup should accentuate and highlight what you want people to notice. I live on only eyeliner and mascara because they make my eyes pop and make me happy; others love a great red lipstick, or a full face if it makes them happy and confident!

Beautification of the rest of the exterior is easy. I always recommend people pick clothes in which they are comfortable.

No, that doesn’t mean sweatpants; it means picking items that fit comfortably. If you are tugging your shirt down constantly, feeling lumpy, or can’t breathe, that’s not the piece for you!

Clothes should accentuate, flatter, and make you comfortable and confident as you walk out the door. You wouldn’t buy an uncomfortable couch you don’t want to sit on and doesn’t fit your lifestyle, so don’t do it with your outfits either!

Step Three: Glow from Within No matter how much you work on the exterior of your home or yourself, if there is poor lighting inside you’ll never be happy with outside results. Your aura or presence is your best advertisement.

There is just something about someone who radiates happiness and confidence, even on their bad days, that is captivating.

NOVEMBER 2019 • 23

We all go through rough patches. We all have things we are insecure about. We all have bad days. But there are ways to work on making sure our inner beauty shines through and blocks out our shadowy corners. I work with a lot of clients as a life and empowerment coach on working past mental blocks that keep them from their goals and from feeling how they want to feel about themselves. Some of my favorite tips are having a journaling routine in the morning for manifesting your dreams and one in the evening for expressing gratitude.

You could also carry a journal around to jot down negative thoughts or feelings throughout the day, and then let them go.

Journaling is a great way to be mindful of your thoughts and control them in the positive direction you want to see them go.

Meditation is also phenomenal for working on your inner beauty. Not ready to sit on a pillow and just be still for 10 minutes? I get that! Try a guided meditation focusing on your goal or how you want to feel.

No matter what step you are on in the falling in love with yourself process, remember just like beautifying your home, it’s OK to ask for help and consult an expert!

SELF CARE

““The most important relationship is the one you have with yourself.”.”

• Body Work • Skin Care • Microblading • Energy Work

• Coaching • Infared Sauna • Meditation Guidance • Astrological Consultations

Schedule your appointment | www.thewellenesscooperative.com | (703) 299-0500 24 • VIP ALEXANDRIA MAGAZINE

Social

| Mount Vernon Fall Wine Festival + Sunset Tour

Story + Photography by Julie Carrasco

The Fall Wine Festival and Sunset Tour at Mount Vernon is a popular annual event that draws crowds every year.

Visitors sampled wine from more than 20 of Virginia’s finest wineries while enjoying the sunset. Guests were encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets to sit and relax on the east lawn overlooking the Potomac River.

The event featured live music, historical talks, tours of the mansion and cellar, and pictures with George and Martha Washington impersonators on the piazza. All proceeds for this event benefited the preservation and restoration of Mount Vernon’s historic mansion.

Dr. Doug Bradburn

Amy Wooldridge + Sarah Early

Jocelynn Moore + Lauren Boyette

Brandon + Kelly Obua

Mary Weisman, Vincent Zieser, Elle Zieser, Michael Zieser + Dean Malissa

Kristi Newlen + Stephen DeMarco

Greg Gonzales

Lynn Hendrick, Terry Onderick, Marc Lerro, Bonnie Kiessling, Robin Reinhold + Jeff Neudorfer

Matt Peterson + Tammy Baird

Kelly + Bethany Frazier

Rig + Rosemary Davis

Courtney Rosellini, Alexandra Kendrick + Katherine Jones

NOVEMBER 2019 • 25

Fashion

| Kiskadee’s Fall Fashion Style Seminar

Story + Photography by Jeremiah “JD” Davis

Kiskadee, a Del Ray boutique, recently held a style seminar hosted by Alexandria’s own Lauren Rothman. Rothman is a stylist, fashion writer, and motivational speaker. She is also the owner of image consulting company Styleateur.

Rothman’s style seminar was an interactive showcase of Kiskadee’s key fall pieces, which she assembled and styled on the spot. “I adore Celeste [Crutchfield, owner of Kiskadee] and I love this store; you can get everything you need, shoes and all. This is my favorite place to wardrobe!”

Rothman also spoke to her passion of helping women. “I’m passionate about and thankful to be able to help women find themselves and feel more powerful and confident through style,” said Rothman.

Lauren A. Rothman + Michelle Campbell

Brook McHugh

26 • VIP ALEXANDRIA MAGAZINE

Lauren A. Rothman

Jackie Rockman + Dr. Shara Posner

Elizabeth Smith

Michelle Novack

Kathy Edmunds

Cindy Kilmer

Michelle Campbell

Elise Freedman

The Arts

| Art on the Avenue

Story + Photography by Catherine May Taylor

Art on the Avenue, an annual festival showcasing more than 300 artists, brought artisans and craftspeople together to celebrate and sell their work. The family friendly multicultural art and music event featured dozens of food vendors, live local music, and plenty of opportunities to shop. Photographic prints, paintings, and jewelry were just some of the wares available. The festival also featured activities for kids and adults, such as a pie-baking contest, pumpkin painting, and a photo booth.

Hannah Elliott, Jacklyn Nagel + Anya Newsome

Conor + Emily McCarthy

Emily Uchytil

Diana Papazian

Donna Silvestr

Stephen Brehm

Jamie Huver + Natalie Huver

Elizabeth Waught + Adriana-Lucia Cotes

Jacqueline Bryant Campbell

Racheal Kupiers + Maggie Mills

Lauren Fisher + Serdar Basegmez

Robert A. Friedenberg

NOVEMBER 2019 • 27

Social

| Portside in Old Town Fall Festival

Story + Photography by David D’Agostino

The Portside in Old Town Fall Festival was packed with people, activities, and fun this year. Hosted by Visit Alexandria in conjunction with the Seaport Foundation and the Office of Historic Alexandria, the festival featured live music, nautical demonstrations, and children’s activities.

The DCeivers rocked the stage with a mix of tunes, and there were also appearances by DJ Kat and Sol Roots. Port City Brewing provided craft beer, and food was dished out by Riverside Taco Company, Dolci Gelati, The Italian Place, and Red Hook Lobster Pound.

The Tall Ship Providence was also on display. The Providence is a reproduction of the first ship authorized to serve in the Continental Navy and John Paul Jones’ first American Command. Tall Ship Providence Foundation crew members taught sailor’s knot tying. The Providence will be available for tours and cruises beginning late fall 2019.

Angel Zervos + Min Kim

Sonji + Addison Joyner

Emily West + Sam Puffenbarger

Layla + Jada Sanchez

Wilson Gonzalez + Isabella Cabererra

Meredith Richard + Cameron Villanueva

Sean Chyun of The DCeivers

Laurie + Everett Williams

Claire, Rick + Carrie Leveridge, Elise Emmon, Hannah + Stella Hurley + Charlie Leveridge

Antionette Perry + Bennie Fulkerson

Amanda Hopkins

Holly Montgomery of The DCeivers

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Social

| 5th Annual Anything That Floats Race

Story + Photography by David D’Agostino

The Alexandria Seaport Foundation hosted the 5th Annual Anything that Floats Race on the Potomac River as hundreds of spectators cheered on the participants. Lou Novak and David Petrie rowed away with the first-place prize, while Harry Watters Jr. floated to victory for the most creative entry.

The first-place team assembled their impressive craft, “Lady Jeannette,” from pool tubes, plastic sheeting, wooden rods, and duct tape. Harry’s vessel, the “U.S.S. Tupperware,” was built mostly with storage containers, milk jugs, and duct tape – lots and lots of duct tape!

The Alexandria Seaport Foundation teaches woodworking and traditional boat building to provide life-changing opportunities for local at-risk youth. Program apprentices learn career and life skills through project-based learning and personal mentoring. You can stop by the McIlhenny Seaport Center on the Old Town waterfront to learn more about the foundation and meet some of the apprentices.

David Petrie + Lou Novak

Jack Crawford, Marodda Tedesco + Odin

Delonte Eason, Jimmy Quintero + Jay Helinski

Harry Watters Jr

Lou Novak + David Petrie

Matt Hommel

Brian Godoy

Lou Novak & Jay Helinski

NOVEMBER 2019 • 29

SLEEPER CAR 30 • VIP ALEXANDRIA MAGAZINE

back•beat /ˈbakbēt/ Music, artists, and venues in and around Alexandria Story + Photography by David D’Agostino

The sounds of Sleeper Car range from Here Comes the Sun to Santeria and Ah-Ha to Zeppelin. The acoustic duo was born in Alexandria and consists of Amanda Clements on lead vocals and melodica and Rich Hubacker on guitar and vocals.

VIP: How did you two find each other?

(Amanda) We work together. When Rich started at HGA in 2016 I learned early on that he plays guitar with a local rock cover band, The Vandelays, and asked if he wanted to start an office band. I was part of a small group that played in our Minneapolis office (where I began my HGA career). Rich took me up on it and Trainwreck was formed. Trainwreck is a 6-piece cover band consisting primarily of members from the HGA DC/Alexandria office.

And “Sleeper Car”?

(Amanda) Sleeper Car is the smaller, acoustic version of Trainwreck. Haven’t we all dreamed of a leisurely cross-country tour by train, taking in the beautiful scenery and listening to slower, acoustic songs that we all know and love and can sing along to?

What’s your musical background?

(Rich) My parents have quite diverse tastes in music, and I grew up listening to everything from Better Midler to Thelonious Monk to Stevie Wonder to Mike Oldfield. I think my first long playing record was The Beach Boys Greatest Hits. I took guitar lessons in middle school and played in some form of rock band in High School and College, and soon after college in the early- to mid-90’s my friend and I flew to LA to try out for the Red Hot Chili Peppers since they had lost their guitarist John Frusciante and were holding, literally, open auditions.

Spoiler – neither one of us got the gig. I essentially stopped playing guitar when my kids were young except to play silly

songs at their elementary school events and rediscovered the joy of playing live music about 5 or 6 years ago.

(Amanda) I grew up singing and playing piano, performing with groups and choruses through school. I have a twin sister and we always sang in musicals, plays, and in the car as youngsters. I codirected an all-female contemporary a cappella group with her at Penn State, Savoir Faire.

After graduation, I wanted to keep singing and that’s when I found barbershop and Sweet Adelines. I’ve been competing with them in quartet and choruses internationally since 2003.

What songs do enjoy playing most?

(Amanda) I love ones where we have harmonies, and then I just have favorites. Elton John, cheesy songs by Captain and Tennille.

I love singing Ramble On and other Led Zeppelin songs.

(Rich) Sometimes I love a deep Fishbone cut that maybe three people in the crowd have heard before, for the simple pleasure of performing a version of a song that I find endearing. Others are just solid songs that Amanda and I can deliver well.

There are moments when it’s pure joy to play songs that get everyone singing along like Tainted Love or Tiny Dancer. We’re developing a decent bench and can adjust to the crowd and go off-script when it feels right. We do our own version of some Prince tunes and are starting to include the occasional original song. I’d love to add some Donny and Marie, David Bowie, or more Dolly Parton to the mix.

What’s next for Sleeper Car? (Sleeper Car) Our dance cards are relatively full, but we love to perform for and with our friends, and for people that enjoy our eclectic selections. Music is a strong connective tissue between us all. We will continue to dig up some gems and shine them.

NOVEMBER 2019 • 31

Halloween

| The Buca Room Halloween Halloween Party + Masquerade Ball

Photography by Jeremiah “JD” Taylor

The Buca Room returned in style for their 2nd Annual Halloween Party & Masquerade Ball this year. Guests, appearing in stunning cocktail attire and beautiful masks, were invited to enjoy an evening of cocktails, music & dancing in the Buca Room lounge.

The Buca Room prides itself on being “Alexandria’s most exclusive night spot...” and texting 571-310-2464 can provide you with more details on this vintage cocktail lounge.

Jason Domanico & Sanaa Jad

Halloween

Aimee Osberghaus & Kate Musgrave

Mark Falsone

| Tim Burton’s Wonderland

Story + Photography by Noah Haney

The Carlyle House recently hosted a Tim Burtonthemed Wonderland party on their front lawn. The event was open to adults and children and featured viewings of Burton’s films on the back terrace.

Costumed characters from some of Burton’s bestknown films made rounds, and there was a costume contest for attendees in the afternoon. Guests could also play games and win prizes throughout the day.

The Carlyle House, with its rich history dating back to 1753, provided the perfect backdrop for this magical event.

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Jason Domanico + Siobhan O’Brien

Kelsi & Michael Strutton

Craig Hellekson

Halloween

| Yelloween at Cafe 44

Story + Photography by JD Watkins

Friendly service, awesome ambiance and great drink specials were exactly what everyone who attended Jula Jane’s birthday shindig at Café 44 experienced on October 30, 2019. Located on the water in downtown Alexandria, this Halloween themed event was filled with awesome getups such as Ben Franklin, an angel, a taco and even Dorothy and her crew from OZ took a break from the yellow brick road to make an appearance.

Live music from the talented Amanda Clements and Rich Hubbard kept everyone on their feet and added to the great vibe Cafe 44’s intimate/modern setting already oozes at its cure. The night ended with the winner of the costume contest being revealed. The secret judges tallied their votes and *drum roll* Angel (pictured in white below) took home the bragging rights!

Tyler Lee

Tom Fienche

Keith Goggins + Jula Jane

Joe “Q” Quintero + Nicki Lewis

Garrett Hill, Allie + Haylen Graham

Matt Hobbs

Jackie Zambrano, Christina Carter, Gileen Haspert + Genevieve Levy

Amanda Clements + Rich Hubbard

Courtney Wheeler + Brett Zawadeki

Greg Hudgins

Tony Gomez

Valerie + Wayne Hooper

NOVEMBER 2019 • 33

Halloween

| Nightmare on King Street at The Fish Market Restaurant

Story + Photography by Jeremiah “JD” Davis

The Fish Market Restaurant recently hosted Nightmare on King Street, an annual Halloween party featuring a costume contest, mummy wrap contest, and cash prizes. Guests took over the second floor of the restaurant, which features Alexandria’s largest dance floor, and danced the night away. A devil in a suit, a Viking with authentic animal pelts, and Thor were among the most notable costumes.

Phil, Thomas, Suzie + Robby Barib

Chris Ryden

Kevin Cherry

Darryl Bassett + Shannon Powell

Chad Allard + Tina Beitler

Well Boehm

Joel Garret

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MT Turner + Andrea Hall

Michelle Lane + Tracy Pitchard

Chris Beck

Ben Frazier + Marianne Varkiani

Alisa Barrientos + Rosie McGill

Liza Eller & Suzie Barib

Halloween

| Chadwick’s Monster Ball

Story + Photography by Jeremiah “JD” Davis

Chadwicks Restaurant’s recent Halloween costume party featured families and friends dressed up in wacky, cool, and creative costumes. The main level of the restaurant still seated bar guests and locals enjoying meals and drinks, but through the streamers and up the stairs to the upper level was the party zone. Among the more notable costumes were Black Widow, Popeye The Sailor, Daredevil, and Nemo. The fun included a photo booth, dancing, and food and drinks for all to enjoy, and a live DJ kept the dance floor electric all evening.

Nora Johnston + Matt Johnston

Jennifer Ferrara + Ellie Sabrian

Jeanette Wages & Alexis Barone

Tony Henry

Jake Riordan

Saiba Kamal + Thor Lucas

Derick Lawson, Amanda Lawson, Richard Kilroy, Christina Campbell + Jason Campbell

Stephanie Jett + John Lourenco

Serena Washington + Catherine Roberts

Ashley Taylor, Anna Wiggins, Bryan Wiggins, Annie Mussey + Derek Folgar

Jason Driggers, Caitlyn Rouillard, Mandy Westergaard, Garret Goode, Aaron Lamer + Annah Jones

NOVEMBER 2019 • 35

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Tess + Jeremy VIP Wedding Feature Teressa Madrid + Jeremy Karaskevicus

Story by Alexandria Lindstrom | Photography by Antonette Dimaiwat Photography

“First comes love, then comes marriage…”

It’s a familiar schoolyard chant, and one that fellow teachers Teressa Madrid and Jeremy Karaskevicus probably heard many times during their days at Cameron Elementary School, where the two were working when they first met in 2013. Naturally, the divide between their grade levels didn’t lead to much more a passing knowledge of one another; but when serendipity stepped in and Madrid’s classroom was moved to the same building as Karaskevicus’, the former work acquaintances became more than colleagues.

“Once my classroom was moved, we began to see one another on a daily basis,” Madrid said. “We passed each other every day and greeted each other every morning, and we had lunch together sometimes.” And when it was clear that spending the lunch period together wasn’t going to suffice, Karaskevicus asked Madrid to meet him for happy hour – a move that set the rumor mills running at the small school and led the pair to keep their relationship as quiet as possible for the next year. After finally

going public with their romance, Madrid decided to move to a new school and they prepared to move in together.

Over the next year, Karaskevicus’ and Madrid’s commitment to one another deepened, strengthening their bond and proving that, in this simple equation, one heart plus one heart equals one love. When moving Karaskevicus’ belongings to Madrid’s house one weekend in July 2018, he presented her a housewarming gift far more heartwarming than she could have imagined. “Jeremy had bought me an engraved silver album filled with pictures of us, and in the middle of all of the chaos of having a house filled with boxes, he gave it to me and asked me to sit down with him and look at it. When we flipped to the last picture, he asked me to take it out and turn it over. On the back, it said, ‘Kind woman, I give you my heart.’ When I looked up, he was on one knee, asking for my hand. Of course, I screamed yes! In keeping with his traditional ways, he had gotten permission from my dad and stepdad, as he’d wanted us to be engaged before living together and to enjoy each step of our journey.”

NOVEMBER 2019 • 37

“

We stood in the middle of the living room and said ‘I do’ in front the people that meant the most to us.

-Tess, The Bride

As traditional as his proposal was, their wedding was anything but, as the happy couple eschewed the expected walk down the aisle in favor of a simple exchanging of vows with a justice of the peace named George – in his vintage 1960s-style living room.

Karaskevicus’ and Madrid’s parents looked on with joy in their hearts. “We stood in the middle of the living room and said ‘I do’ in front the people that meant the most to us,” Madrid said.

Being as social as they are, the newlyweds then put their full attention on what mattered more to them: the party. The day 38 • VIP ALEXANDRIA MAGAZINE

after exchanging vows, they celebrated with 130 of their closest friends and family at Virtue Feed and Grain in Old Town.

Wearing a long-sleeved lace dress with an open back, Madrid looked every bit the princess for her special day, and guests danced and ate to their hearts’ content, feasting on a delicious buffet. The cake and an accompanying array of cupcakes from Bakeshop in Arlington were accompanied by more sweets from Virtue. Meggrolls delivered late-night snacks, one of the couple’s guilty pleasures.

Perfect as the day was in so many ways, there were a few hiccups along the way – one of which was a flood that diverted their route back to Virtue after having their portraits taken offsite.

Nevertheless, Madrid and Karaskevicus considered their day to be everything they could have dreamed of, thanks to the many talents involved. “Everyone made it such a memorable day – Charles Koch, the bakers at Bakeshop, Megg at Meggrolls, Party Favor Photo, the florists at Fleurelity, and of course the entire team at Virtue. I have so much gratitude for all of them,” Madrid said. It was an epic day for an epic couple, just one more lesson proving that, while things may not always go to plan, the most important part of the equation is the love that goes into it.

the details

THE VENUE Virtue Feed & Grain THE SNACKS Meggrolls THE CUPCAKES Bakeshop

THE PHOTOGRAPHER Antonette Dimaiwat Photography

NOVEMBER 2019 • 39

Business

| Alexandria Chamber Senior-Focused Business Network

Story + Photography by Noah Haney

The Alexandria Chamber of Commerce’s group Senior-Focused Business Network recently partnered with the Alzheimer’s Association to bring awareness to and present volunteer opportunities for Alzheimer’s disease. Guest speaker Diane Vance, programs and services manager for the National Capital Area chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, actively engaged attendees with new research, including the effects of Alzheimer’s at younger ages.

Christine Sennott + Judy Balloff

Jennifer Hammer, Carrie Myatt + Cele Garrett

Kristen Banks

Cathi Coridan, Lovie Patish + Gin Kinnerman

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24/7 Emergency Service

w/ your home

Featuring: Kristen Jones, The Patterson Group, Jennifer Hernandez, William Lynch + Chase Whitley, Industrious, Nicki Lewis of Cafe 44, SERVPRO® of Alexandria, Defense Credit Union Council, Fisher House, Armed Forces Financial Network + Lee-Fendall House NOVEMBER 2019 • 41

jonesing for real estate Story by Alexandria Lindstrom | Photography by CJ “Heater” Heatley

When Kristen Jones calls herself a “boutique concierge realtor,” she’s not overselling herself. She’s truly hands-on, taking a personal interest in the clients she works with, so that no detail is overlooked before, during, or even after the buying process. She helps her clients with everything from picking the perfect paint colors and stains for their hardwood flooring, to ordering light fixtures and furnishing their new homes.

For Jones, these are just things that come naturally as an extension of being a lover of people. She has turned her ability to make connections and her innate talent for design into a successful career as a real estate agent specializing in the Alexandria market. Add to that her deep passion for the area and knowledge of the local community, and you have a powerhouse who is determined to make her mark in the local real estate scene – and that has certainly translated to her success. “For me, it’s all about helping my clients reach their goals,” said the 43-year-old former Fairfax County teacher. A wife and mother of two young boys, her greatest challenge in attainting success has been in maintaining a healthy work-life 42 • VIP ALEXANDRIA MAGAZINE

balance, but her family has also been a great driving force in keeping her focused on forward growth.

That growth has been impressive, with sales in 2018 over $15 million and with more than $30 million so far in 2019. She said the secret behind her growth isn’t confidential, but something rather simple: “I listen to my clients’ needs.

I pride myself on that and the fact that I really personalize the service. I love what I do. I know exactly where my clients’ deals lie on any given day; things in real estate change minute to minute, day to day, and you need someone there with you every step of the way.” As a one-woman team under the McEnearney Associates name, Jones greatly credits her assistant, Summer Hine, in helping her maintain her busy schedule and stay so hands-on. “Being small, without a large team, keeps the whole experience more personal, and that’s my strength.” As she continues serving clients throughout Northern Virginia, Jones seems only to be building that strength – and she has no plans to stop.

TESTIMONIALS A personal touch on real estate that opens the door to your dream home.

We have been through many home sales and we both rate Kristen way above average.

The details, research, approach, experience and friendliness she shows is absolutely beyond other agents. A new-homeshopper or a family wanting to sell would be very lucky to have her on their side!

“Kristen Jones is our agent to the stars! She has transformed our home to be sold in less than 48 hours!!! What an incredible job to get it market ready!! I know she will sell it quickly to a lucky new owner! What a professional she is and we feel so comfortable in her capable hands!”

- Joann A.

- Alisa and Rob B.

Kristen Jones is the best agent I have ever worked with. She is personable, professional, and knowledgeable. She knows how to get the job done effectively and timely. I would recommend her to everyone looking to buy or sell their home.

- Brandy R.

IMAGE

Kristen Jones | Licensed in VA | 703.851.2556 kristen@kristenjones.com | www.kristenjones.com Old Town Office | 109 S Pitt St., Alexandria VA 22314 | 703.549.9292 NOVEMBER 2019 • 43

Halloween

| 6th Annual Lee-Fendall House Halloween Pumpkin Hunt

Story + Photography by Catherine May Taylor

The Lee-Fendall House recently hosted its 6th annual Halloween Pumpkin Hunt, where dozens of families showed off their Halloween spirit in very creative costumes. The main event, led by Megan Ritter and her team, worked much like an Easter egg hunt, but with tiny toy pumpkins and black eggs rather than Easter eggs. One lucky guest picked up the pumpkin with a secret surprise inside.

After the pumpkin and egg hunt, guests gathered to show off their costumes in a parade around the grounds. The guest with the best costume also won a prize. Guests could also explore the museum and learn about the house’s history, while enjoying refreshments, crafts, stickers, spooky stories, and games.

Christina Mumm

Tom, Marjorie + Alexandra Gaultney

Vesna, Emi + Matt Manning

Amanda Roper, Megan Ritter, Christina Mumm, Brittany Sawer + Amelia Kays

Colin Woodbury

Evelyn Prether

Raimondi Family Horne Family

Lorna + Arlea Zambrano Holland

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Sigrid Chamberlain

Blake + Brynn Wheeler

Vu, Vera + Linda Nguyen

Social

| AHS Fall Festival

Story + Photography by Catherine May Taylor

A gorgeous fall day set the backdrop for this year’s American Horticultural Society’s Fall Festival. Families showed up to George Washington’s river house, which was in full fall bloom, to visit a marketplace with plants, food, and craft vendors. Kids also enjoyed making their own scarecrows to take home, putting together nature-based art, having their faces painted, learning about beekeeping, and learning what the American Horticultural Society does through demonstrations based around the market.

Guests could grab a hot apple cider from Dawn & Dusk Coffee while listening to the Custis Street Boys band, or head over to the Custis Street Boys marketplace where vendors were selling organic skincare, food, home goods, art, and giving away complimentary pumpkins.

George Fraser

Sandy Bryan

Amanda Chapman, Meaghan Kloetzel + Juliette Theroux

Christoph Rhein + Martha Kiene

Sonja Hamric + Nora MacDonald

Sue + Isabella Bollerman

Dr. Phil Sheridan

Jennie + Reagan Unglesbee

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A Guide to Designing the Perfect Fall Tablescape Story by William Lynch | Photography by Catherine May Taylor

When it comes to home entertaining, my partner Chase and I both bring a lot to the table – literally – combining our talents and career backgrounds to create an occasion that is always special and memorable. I’m originally from Cleveland, where I started and ran a floral and event design business during high school and college. Some of my clients have included Khloe Kardashian, “Entourage” star Jerry Ferrara, and Geraldo Rivera.

Chase has been around design his entire life. He went to High Point University for interior design, and when he’s not working with me on projects, we’re both working with Chase’s mother, Martha Peterson, designing and flipping houses. Entertaining is one of the many things that brought us together; after living together for a year and a half, we’ve become known by our friends and family to have some of the best dinner parties.

As the holiday season quickly approaches, it’s time to start planning for holiday dinners and parties – and that really calls to our creativity both in design and in cuisine. Like so many people around the country, Thanksgiving, or “friendsgiving,” is one of our favorite holidays to entertain guests, and every year we host a friendsgiving party with our close friends. Naturally, we’re also always called upon to help our families decorate and plan for Thanksgiving. It’s a great honor and a great responsibility, but we love the challenge of coming up with great ideas that will really create a great moment, especially with regards to the table.

When we start to think about any dinner party, especially Thanksgiving dinner, we always start with the tabletop. We tend to stay away from the typical brown and orange table setting and do something unique and different each year. This year, our spin on Thanksgiving led us to deep purples and gold. Unexpected?

Perhaps. But nevertheless, it really accomplished the goal of being truly stunning and absolutely distinctive.

As I always do a few nights before any special occasion or dinner party, I began to work on the flower arrangements. Inspired by a beautiful damask linen, we brought in deeper colors and tones from the linen when selecting the flowers. Though I love arrangements that have no greenery, when I use it, I always start with a base of greens. For this dinner, I used magnolia and seeded eucalyptus. After I framed the shape of the centerpiece, I added the florals: deep burgundy cymbidium orchids, sexy black calla lilies, and clusters of fuchsia and lavender roses. I tend to lean

NOVEMBER 2019 • 47

“

When we set them on the table [chargers], we started to second-guess the entire table, as it started to look like something more suited for the Far East rather than an American Thanksgiving. As Chase started to panic, I reminded him to take a deep breath and stick to our vision, as it always comes together in the end! toward more modern design by clustering flowers together. It makes the design more impactful rather than scattering flowers here and there. In addition to the traditional floral elements, because Thanksgiving is a holiday so focused around food and the earth, I added cut pomegranates and kale to the centerpiece. It’s important to remember to be careful when adding pomegranates to the centerpiece, however, as they drip juice. Needless to say, Chase was not happy when some red pomegranate juice dripped on the white napkins!

After we selected the linens, design, and florals, it was time for Chase’s favorite part: setting the table! Chase loves over-thetop traditional tables. For this table, we started with glittering gold beaded glass chargers. When we set them on the table, we 48 • VIP ALEXANDRIA MAGAZINE

started to second-guess the entire table, as it started to look like something more suited for the Far East rather than an American Thanksgiving. As Chase started to panic, I reminded him to take a deep breath and stick to our vision, as it always comes together in the end! We added a simple white dinner plate to the top of the charger, some gorgeous blue and white china that was Chase’s grandmother’s, and simple white square napkins. Finally, it started to look more like Thanksgiving. We love mixing antiques with new, modern elements, and the blue and gold pattern of the china blended nicely with the gold accents of the table and the deep blues in the room.

As you’re decorating for any occasion, it’s important to add little touches to a table that make your guests feel special. This

NOVEMBER 2019 • 49

Thanksgiving, we used mini pumpkins that you can find at any grocery store, spray painted them gold, and placed them on top of the napkin—a little touch to make the table feel more festive.

If you like to do assigned seating, adding the name of the guest to each pumpkin with a Sharpie marker or pen is a great place card. I also love adding some sort of small gift for the guests, even though guests tend to forget them before they leave. For this table, we gave each guest a mini bottle of prosecco and wrote the date of the Thanksgiving dinner on the bottle as something small to remember the dinner.

When we entertain, we love to think about the whole experience, not just the dinner or the table. We want our guests to feel festive from the moment they walk in and certainly don’t want them to have to wait for a drink, so we love doing a signature entrance cocktail at our parties. This Thanksgiving, instead of serving a glass of champagne, we served a Thanksgiving mimosa. Our recipe called for adding a splash of apple cider to a glass of champagne and garnishing it with a small apple slice. Presentation is everything! And while Chase would love to have someone standing at the door with a tray of glasses, that’s not practical (unless you have a full house staff or have hired a catering team), so we added a simple vase of greens with magnolia leaves around the tray to dress it up.

As we’ve learned through our many occasions of entertaining, when planning Thanksgiving or any dinner party it’s critical to everyone’s sanity to always give yourself more time than you think you will need. We constantly go back and forth on timing, as Chase loves doing everything at the last minute, and I would much prefer setting it all up months in advance. Impractical and impossible, of course, but it would certainly make things run so much more smoothly. But even with the most precise planning, you must realize that, when setting up for a dinner or party, something will always go wrong. Something almost certainly won’t be exactly how you pictured it, but it will always come together. In the moment, it can seem like life or death, but at the end of the day, it’s all about being thankful for the wonderful friends and family that are seated around the table. Remember that while you plan. And most importantly, remember to have fun and enjoy it!

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“

“In the moment, it can seem like life or death, but at the end of the day, it’s all about being thankful for the wonderful friends and family that are seated around the table.”

The Arts

| AR Workshop Paint + Wine Event

Story + Photography by Noah Haney

AR Workshop, a boutique workshop in Old Town, recently hosted a complimentary paint and wine event with well-known designers Maureen Anders and Adria Ruff. Guests sipped wine while painting a fall-themed mini wood sign. Their workshop brought their dream of offering workshops for home decor and other skills to life.

AR Workshop offers a full slate of classes but also offers unique home decor items for purchase.

Michelle Shepard + Katie Nguyen Wells

Tara Sanders + Ann Barone

Katie Attiken + Elena Aida

Tammy Eddy + Nicole Duncan

Lauren Lewis, Liz Mullikin + Sally Harte

John Wells, Trisha Castle, Teresa Thomas, Courtney Edwards, Ashley Enright + Taylor Woller

Sheila Taruc, Karla September, Karla September + Danae Johnson +Sheila DanaeTaruc, Johnson

Lauren Lewis, Liz Mullikin, Katie Crystal Wallen + Erin Pinero Nguyen Wells + Sally Harte

Allison Priebe, Vanessa Maloney, Deb Sanchez, Morag Cooke + K Nacion

NOVEMBER 2019 • 51

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Love Where You Work INDUSTRIOUS: MORE THAN A WORKSPACE

Story by Alexandria Lindstrom | Photography Submitted by Industrious

NOVEMBER 2019 • 53

“We’re excited to be part of the emerging Alexandria community, especially as the town prepares for a surge in commercial developments over the next few years.”

- Joyce Oh When you walk into Industrious Alexandria Carlyle Tower, there’s an immediate sense of energy that bounces off the walls.

It’s a palpable sense of progress born of many work environments sharing one large space, each busily tending to their varied tasks and pushing toward success. At its core, the Industrious family embodies productivity, growth, and success in a way that, while perhaps untraditional, is extremely effective. And while it might not be the first coworking solution, Industrious trail blazes in other ways, offering services that set it apart from others that help their members feel seen and understood.

Founded in 2013 by friends Jamie Hodari and Justin Stewart after the two realized coworking spaces could be more than a workspace geared toward startup companies, Industrious became a place where professionals of all kinds were proud to conduct their business and meet with clients. The company has since grown to more than 85 locations in more than 45 cities throughout the United States, offering membership options that are as flexible as the workspaces themselves. A wide variety of industries, businesses, and professionals can work without worry. “It’s the perfect flexible workspace solution for companies of all industries – there’s not one particular niche that we fill, and we find that our members come to us from a variety of different backgrounds because we’re able to be the one-size-fitsall workspace for businesses,” said Joyce Oh, Industrious area manager for the Mid-Atlantic region.

That’s not to say they treat all members the same, however. Quite the contrary, as they take particular interest in knowing what’s on the radar for their members so they can deliver a level of service that sets them apart. “Our company really focuses on making sure that our members feel taken care of and that they feel seen, that we’re responding to their business needs and that they know that they’re not just the member in office 44, they’re 54 • VIP ALEXANDRIA MAGAZINE

part of the Industrious Alexandria community,” Oh said. “We strive to offer a curated experience.”

Industrious achieves their individual approach by offering customized services and a variety of spaces conducive to business productivity in whatever way needed, from casual brainstorming sessions over coffee in their cafes to formal meetings in their conference rooms. Members at Industrious receive all the perks of the building amenities, too: fitness center access, use of event space, and even outside space. Industrious also offers workplace amenities specific to the their model: a wellness room; phone booths for private calls; conference rooms; lounges and common areas; hospitality cafes that serve snacks, beverages, and even breakfast and lunch. They also supply color copying as well as office and cleaning supplies, freeing workers from the minutiae that often interferes with getting down to business.

They’re also hyper-focused on integrating their concept of a work community into the larger community of Alexandria, where the growing trend of a live/work environment is gaining ground. “We’ve been working hard to understand exactly what the vision of the neighborhood is and the vision of the economic development to make sure that we’re responding to the neighborhood needs,” Oh continued. “We’re excited to be part of the emerging Alexandria community, especially as the town prepares for a surge in commercial developments over the next few years. This means that, not only do our members have access to a supportive Industrious community of other business professionals throughout the day, but they also have endless opportunities to network and socialize within the growing Alexandria community.” Obviously, at Industrious, a day at the “office” is more than just a day at the office. Here, Industrious members’ successes are their successes, and they’re offering a great space in which to thrive.

Business

| Industrious Ribbon Cutting

Story + Photography by Noah Haney

Industrious Alexandria celebrated its grand opening recently, complete with a ribbon cutting, art reception, and networking mixer. President and CEO of the Alexandria Chamber of Commerce, Joe Haggerty, was among the attendees.

Industrious leases flexible co-working and offices for individuals and teams of all sizes in Carlyle Tower, adjacent to the Eisenhower Avenue Metro station.

K Nacion + Joe Haggerty

Mali Phonpadith, K Nacion, Lovie Patish + Stan Brinkley

Didi Russell + Luis Henriques

Joyce Oh + Morgan Babcock

Camila Santander

Angel White, Joyce Oh, Mandi Meros, Marisa Peters, Luis Henriques + Latdavone Insyxiengmay

Tim Lamberger + Sara Martinez

Ken Abrom

Meghan Masius, Rachel Wishner, Kyle Hirt + Ridwan Adhami

NOVEMBER 2019 • 55

Sports

| Washington Nationals Celebration Parade

Photography by Jeremiah “JD” Davis

Washington D.C. recently through an epic, victoru celebration that was 95 yeras in the making. The Washington Nationals won the 2019 World Series, defeating the Houston Astros 6-2 and earning their first title in franchise history.

Washington Nationals fans lined the downtown streets for a World Series parade + rally that turned the whole city red.

Ted Learner, former managing principal owner of the team, cheerfully announced, ““For the first time since 1924 we brought the world championship back to Washington.”

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Wellness

| Run! Geek! Run! 5K Race

Story + Photography by Julie Carrasco

The 2019 Run! Geek! Run! 5K race kicks off in Alexandria, Virginia. The 12th Annual event is co-sponsored by Ironistic and Hudson Studio this year. All proceeds from the race goes directly to support the National Industries for the Blind (NIB). The race is opened to runners of all levels with awards for female and male runners in multiple age groups. Come out and support your local runners as they cross the finish line for a great cause!

Rosie Wiedemer, Kelly Jones + Devin Reese

Tan Zhang

Kevin Lynch

Janet Garber

Michelle Butler

Wendy Ginsberg + Jamie Hank

Lucy Olliff Judson White

Victoria Lion Monroe + Tracy Whaley

Joe Emerson, Jon Zeidler + Amos Desjardins

Arnold Adeyinka

NOVEMBER 2019 • 57

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Hometown Holiday Traditions Top 7 Old Town Alexandria Celebrations of the Season Story by Alexandria Lindstrom + The Patterson Group | Photography By Catherine May Taylor

Built on a solid foundation of great passion for the area along with true dedication to their clients, The Patterson Group is a real estate team with a heart and soul that reflects an impeccable standard of service that has become its calling card. Originally established by Phyllis Patterson in 1987, The Patterson Group is now a team of eight that includes Phyllis’s daughters Britt and Paige—both of whom are agents—as well as three other full-time agents and two marketing team members, creating a powerhouse of dedicated, determined women in the local community and a trusted name in the Alexandria market and beyond.

“We are a full-service real estate team with a focus on building relationships through integrity, experience, and quality of service,” says Britt. “We feel we fill a service gap in the industry in that we do more than sell a house—we sell the Alexandria community. We provide a strict level of professionalism and service to our clients, regardless of price point, and offer unique insight gained from our many years in real estate and our many years here in Alexandria,” she says.

clients, connecting them with others in the community, and making sure that they are truly happy as a resident of Alexandria.

Beyond buying and selling, we love to host events, fitness classes, and workshops. We encourage any and all to get involved and join in on the fun!”

And when it comes to holiday fun in Alexandria, the Patterson Group has no shortage of memories and traditions that make the season all the more special.

Top 7 Celebrations of the Season 1. Stroll Down the Streets of Old Town

“We also have in-depth, personal knowledge of Alexandria’s neighborhoods, which helps us find our clients homes in areas that best suit their needs and interests. We also have longstanding relationships with numerous local contractors and advanced knowledge of what’s coming in the area. Our clients know that we’ll be with them throughout the entire process and beyond,” Britt continues. “We’re so honored to be a part of this special time in their life, and we want to continue to be a part of their life after the transaction is over. We enjoy keeping in touch with NOVEMBER 2019 • 59

There’s something magical about the streets of Old Town during the holidays. The lights are strung on the trees down King Street, candles pop up in the windows, and the storefronts are adorned with red tartan.

Strolling down the street as we do our holiday shopping puts us in the holiday spirit!

2. Annual Scottish Christmas Walk Weekend and Parade We can’t help but be excited for the 49th Annual Scottish Christmas Walk Weekend and Parade on December 7th. The merry energy of the thousands of people that line the streets combined with the sounds of bagpipes and drums along with the sight of the cute little Scottie dogs and the anticipation of the arrival of Santa Claus is contagious.

6. Tour Mount Vernon Mount Vernon is magical all year round, but it’s a special atmosphere during the holiday season, with candlelit tours and firework celebrations.

The historic decorations and tree lightings really make think about the beauty of Christmases past.

7. Festive Feasting

3. The Campagna Center Homes Tour The Holiday Homes Tour is the perfect stroll to see all of the historic properties throughout the city deck their halls, along with every other inch of their beautiful grounds. We love ending the day by the waterfront and watching the Alexandria Boat Parade of Lights on the Potomac, which is bright enough to make Rudolph proud.

4. Alexandria Holiday Boat Parade of Lights If you haven’t been to the Alexandria Holiday Boat Parade of Lights, you need to check your list twice and add it to the top! Grab a hot chocolate from Dolci Gelati and watch the amazing dozens of lit boats sail down the Potomac. You’ll see everything from blowup snowmen to elegant sails being turned into 20-foot Christmas trees.

5. Waterskiing Santa This is truly the gift that keeps on giving, and we love to head down to the Waterfront Park to get prime viewing of this Christmas Eve tradition. The best way to spread Christmas cheer is seeing the Grinch on a Jet Ski and wakeboarding reindeer.

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Restaurants in Alexandria take it to the next level during the holiday season. We love dining at cozy Cedar Knoll or by the festive Waterfront at Union Street Public House for Stories with Santa. There’s something about seeing the excitement on all of the kids’ faces that makes you really get into the holiday spirit.

The Patterson Group is located at 400 South Washington Street, Alexandria, Virginia 22314. For more information, visit www.pattersonrealestate.com or call (703) 310-6201.

Social

| Alexandria Family Fall Festival

Story + Photography by Julie Carrasco

The City of Alexandria recently hosted a Family Fall Festival at Armistead L. Boothe Park. This family-friendly event celebrates the change of seasons. Kids enjoyed free activities such as pumpkin painting, hayrides, games, moon bounce, scarecrow making and face painting. The event was sponsored by The Alexandria Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities in partnership with Kindercare Learning Centers and Zipcar.

William Monk, Maxwell McKee + Reagan Monk

Dennis + Thomas Chong

Daphnee & Aleah Leger

Michelle + Abby Rimmke

Elijah + Toussaint Lacoste

Sasha + Zaria Hodge

Judy + Liz McConville

Brandi Colins + Lucy Bates

Zi, Tosha + Leak Dubose

Taneka + Raheem Smith

Anne O’Dell + Corey Beidleman

Abigail Smith, Gabriela Pena + Libby Smith

NOVEMBER 2019 • 61

When Water Invades What You Should Do If Your Home Faces An Emergency Story by Alexandria Lindstrom | Photography by Jeremiah “JD” Davis

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The threats to a home or business structure are great, especially in severe weather; and even in homes that seem well guarded against the odds, flooding can cause a great deal of damage. Development increases storm water runoff that can then encroach into existing structures. In some cases, overwhelmed storm drains cause water to invade basements and homes; and areas near water are especially at risk.

Even icejams and snowmelt can result in flooding that threatens a home.

Naturally, there are also instances of flooding that are unrelated to weather: burst pipes, sump pump failure, clogged drains, and sewer system backups.

It’s important to be on high alert and be aware of signs that water is invading your home. You may see areas of dampness that soon become flooded with water, and it’s crucial to be cautious and take the proper actions when this occurs. Stop the water at its source (if you can—in the case of natural disasters, this won’t be possible). Next, turn off the electricity IF you can safely get to the power box. Evacuate the home and call for help to stop the flooding and contact a team of professionals to fix the damage.

Dedicating themselves to doing just that, the teams at SERVPRO® of Alexandria and Marlton/Morningside have been restoring homes and businesses throughout local area for nearly 30 years, taking on the task of cleaning up and removing areas of damage from flood water; fire; smoke; mold; sewage; storms; and other destructive forces that can endanger the integrity of a home and put people’s safety at risk.

Because every type of water damage is different, each situation requires a unique solution...

Because every type of water damage is different, each situation requires a unique solution, and the team at SERVPRO® of Alexandria will come in to assess the scope of the damage to ensure that the steps they take will fully address the problem and completely restore the area. A majority of the water will be removed using powerful pumps and vacuum units to prevent additional water damage and the growth of mold before special equipment is brought in to remove any remaining water and fully dry the area. Next, the team will clean and sanitize before taking any steps necessary to fully restore the damaged areas to their former condition, including minor repairs such as replacing drywall and installing new carpet or major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL 24/7 Emergency Service Available

• • • • • • • • • •

Water Removal & Dehumidification Fire, Smoke & Soot Mold Remediation Reconstrution Catastrophic Storm Response Document Drying Bioremediation & Vandalism Ceilings, Walls & Hard Floors Air Ducts & HVAC Deodorization NOVEMBER 2019 • 63

SALUTE TO SERVICE

Home Is Where The Heroes Are Providing families of hospitalized American soldiers with the comforts of home Story by Alexandria Lindstrom | Photography Courtesy of The Fisher House

When the Gulf War began, it brought wounded soldiers’ needs to the immediate attention of Americans, reminding the nation of the sacrifices they made every day in pursuit of securing safety around the world. As more soldiers came home in need of medical care, their families were among those most deeply impacted by the horrors of war. In response, the Fisher House program was opened in 1990 to provide families of hospitalized American soldiers with the comforts of home.

Nearly three decades later, the Fisher House program has grown in both attention and support, opening houses at major military medical centers across the nation. After recognizing the need for an alternative to expensive hotels in the D.C. area, the District 64 • VIP ALEXANDRIA MAGAZINE

of Columbia - VA Medical Center’s Fisher House opened in 2011 to provide free temporary housing to families of veterans and active-duty service members receiving care at the VA Medical Center to offer a “home away from home” during a time when proximity is healing to all.

Funded by the Fisher House Foundation, each of the homes are located on major military bases and VA Medical Center campuses nationwide. There is never a lodging fee, no matter the duration of the stay; the foundation has saved families an estimated $451 million in out-of-pocket expenses for lodging and transportation.

As important as the Fisher House Foundation’s work is, however, having a place to stay is only one piece of the equation while a loved one is in the hospital. Families of these service members and veterans also need financial support for basics such as food and clothing, as well assistance with their regular monthly bills and for temporary transportation such as rental cars.

Knowing the importance of bridging that gap, the Armed Forces Financial Network (AFFN) – a military and civilian consumer

Banks and DCUC Credit Unions to give back to active duty, reservists, retirees, veterans, and military families. Since then, more than $4 million has been given directly, and providing support to military families staying at a Fisher House has been at the center of the AFFN MCSP. “The U.S. military is an all voluntary service, and our U.S. active duty service members, reservists, retirees, and military families are truly our nation’s most treasured resources,” Broda said. “We

The U.S. military is an all voluntary service, and our U.S. active duty service members, reservists, retirees, and military families are truly our nation’s most treasured resources.

We owe it to these brave men and women who currently serve or have served in the past our undying gratitude and appreciation for the sacrifice they’ve made.

- JOHN BRODA

ATM and point of sale network co-owned by the Defense Credit Union Council (DCUC) and the Association of Military Banks of America – partnered with Fisher House Foundation in 2004.

AFFN supports the financial needs of active duty, reservists, retirees, veterans, and military families. Over the past four years, more than 19,000 families staying at Fisher Houses around the world have received more than $1 million in AFFN prepaid debit cards or AFFN thank you cards. “Every dollar distributed has proudly assisted military and veterans’ families, providing them with assistance such as transportation, care and comfort items, clothing, and meals,” said John Broda, president and CEO of AFFN. “Serving those who serve is part of our DNA as an organization as well as our DNA as the people working for this organization,” Broda said. “It’s all about people helping people and realizing that, together, we are stronger. Together, we inspire others to be kind and do good in service to others.”

Service for others is very much a core mission for AFFN and DCUC. Created in 1985 at the request of the Department of Defense U.S. Army Finance, the mission of AFFN is to give American service members and their families access to their newly “direct deposited” pay – regardless of where in the world they are. Since then, defense credit unions and military banks have offered AFFN access on ATM, debit, and credit cards; AFFN has processed more than 3 billion military and civilian consumers ATM, point of sale purchases, and e-commerce transactions. But it isn’t all about the money for this organization.

“AFFN, in partnership with our DCUC credit unions and AMBA banks, gives back with every transaction processed. One of the fundamental and core principals at AFFN is serving our troops one transaction at a time, and we really believe that we are truly processing with a purpose.”

owe it to these brave men and women who currently serve or have served in the past our undying gratitude and appreciation for the sacrifice they’ve made. Our network of giving is based on our love and respect for them, and our recipients sense that and give back just as much – if not more – than they receive,” he added, clearly passionate about the need to provide financial support to these proud and brave men and women and their families.

During such a critical time in the lives of these military members and their families, the work of Fisher House Foundation, supported by AFFN in partnership with DCUC, can mean all the difference. For those who serve so bravely and selflessly, each Fisher House and the financial support given represents the support of the community, and a thank you for all the ways we have been served as a nation by our service members and the families that serve alongside them.

To learn more about how to donate to the Fisher House Foundation, including donating air miles to help with airfare and hotel accommodations for military families in need, visit www.fisherhouse.org

Putting those words into action, AFFN launched the AFFN Military Community Support Program (MCSP) in 2004, creating a unique partnership in giving by joining forces with AMBA NOVEMBER 2019 • 65

Service

| Freedom Day USA

Story + Photography by Catherine May Taylor

Many people dislike going to the dentist, but it was all smiles and even some happy tears on this year’s Freedom Day USA at Dr. Kathleen Mullaney’s dental office in Old Town. Dr. Mullaney joined dozens of other practitioners to provide free goods and services to military members who would not otherwise be able to afford them.

Dr. Mullaney, a Navy veteran herself, joined up with volunteers such as Dr. Antara Daru from Precision Periodontics and Implant Dentistry in Richmond. Together they donated more than $43,000 in free procedures including cleanings, fillings, and oral surgeries.

Alexandria Mayor Justin Wilson dropped by to thank the practitioners for their efforts and the patients for their service.

One such patient, Mignette Humphrey, was overwhelmed with happiness when she learned she would have a necessary root canal free of charge, a procedure she couldn’t have afforded without the Freedom Day organization.

Mayor Justin Williams + Dr. Kathleen Mullaney

Dr. Kathleen Mullaney + Derrick Ward

Zelda Artz + Dr. Kathleen Mullaney Randolph Furey + Paige Quillin

Antara Daru + Lisa Meade

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Alex Lopez

Mignette Humphrey

There’s a story behind every smile... ... and everyone wants to have a smile they feel good about, no matter their age, gender, profession or circumstance. Understanding that simple fact has allowed us to provide not only exceptional results, but a pleasing experience as well. So whatever the story may be...

we’d like to be a part of yours.

571-321-6778

Dr. Kathleen Mullaney, DDS, FAGD 571-321-6778 700 North Fairfax Street, Suite 230 Alexandria, VA 22314 www.kathleenmullaneydds.com

Jennifer Hernandez REALTOR

Jennifer Hernandez REALTOR® | LICENSED IN VA

m o

202-339-2511 703-556-4222 jennifer.hernandez@c21nm.com

McLean Office 6631 Old Dominion Drive McLean, VA 22101

BUY - RENT - SELL

NOVEMBER 2019 • 67

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P E O P L E YO U S H O U L D K N OW

Jennifer Hernandez The Local Real Estate Agent Who Is Going Above + Beyond The Call of Duty Story by Alexandria Lindstrom | Photography by The Smiths Photography

Military personnel are incredibly sacrificial in so many ways.

They serve and protect without question, taking on stressful assignments that continually put them at risk while losing time with their loved ones and moving across the country or world every few years as new orders dictate. Their families often make sacrifices alongside them, by starting over – sometimes from scratch – to establish new homes where the whole family can thrive and be happy. It can be difficult to understand if you’ve never been in the position, but for CENTURY 21 New Millennium Realtor Jennifer Hernandez, the struggle is one she has faced firsthand as the spouse of a 25-year veteran whose many moves caused countless challenges.

“Military families are unique and live in a culture separate from traditional norms, and the most obvious example of this distinct culture is the sacrifice military families make in moving around the world and building and rebuilding a base of support every two to three years.”

“Military families are unique and live in a culture separate from traditional norms, and the most obvious example of this distinct culture is the sacrifice military families make in moving around the world and building and rebuilding a base of support every two to three years,” said Hernandez, who became a real estate agent in 2009 after she and her family moved to Williamsburg.

“I realized that I needed to learn how to buy and sell real estate, so I became a licensed agent,” Hernandez explained. “I decided I would always help military families find a suitable rental home or make an affordable purchase to ease the burden of housing.”

She knows housing is only one of many challenges, which makes her more passionate about her mission. “Moving is hard on kids in school, who struggle trying to adapt to new friends and different grading standards. Similarly, a spouse’s career is

interrupted and can disrupt cash flows that support the family,” she said. “I want the families I work with to thrive or ‘bloom where they are planted.’ ” Hernandez and her family experienced 16 permanent change of station, or PCS, moves in their own military career. “Each move required throwing out expensive cleaning products, plants, items in refrigerator. We also donated many items to keep under the weight allowance and dealt with many broken items along the way,” she said. “Whether you’re buying or renting at a new location, there is always a struggle to replace all the items along with making the necessary deposits to begin basic services, and when we made our final PCS move to the DMV area three years ago, I became fully engaged in real estate and knew I could help military families based on my own experiences.”

Having been a real estate agent for the past 10 years, Hernandez has helped countless families, going above and beyond the call of duty to not only help them find a home, but to help them thrive. “I help them find the right place based on their needs and negotiate a better deal, working tirelessly to successfully close the deal. I also help my military clients by giving them 20% of my commission at the closing table. This helps all my military clients and especially young families being able to get into a home, which could be the difference in finding closing cost assistance, since most sellers do not offer closing costs. Whether it is the actual PCS move, upcoming deployments, or anything else that results from a military lifestyle, having that additional cash can make all the difference,” she said. As a Realtor on a mission, Hernandez is definitely one with boots on the ground.

Jennifer Hernandez, CENTURY 21 New Millennium, is located at 6641 Old Dominion Drive, McLean, VA 22101. For more information, call 202-339-2511 or 703-556-4222. Visit her online at www.jenniferhernandez.com.

NOVEMBER 2019 • 69

Social

| Arlington Valley Fest

Story + Photography by David D’Agostino

The New District Brewing Company recently hosted the third annual Arlington Valley Fest, a block party-style festival featuring the Arlington Art Truck, live music and performances, local food, and craft beer. Valley Fest was born of a desire to foster the growth of Arlington’s Four Mile Run valley as an active arts and community hub and featured performances by The Washington Ballet and the 19th Street Band.

New District debuted their Oktoberfest brew at the event.

Their business name was inspired by the area around their brewery formerly being called “The New District” after Arlington and Alexandria went from being part of the District of Columbia back to being part of Virginia in 1846.

Mike Katrivanos

Nina Tran + Eric Dolinger

Margaret Chiriaco, Michael Mills, Howie Mill + Amanda Mills

Kevin Sanchez-Pena

Sol Roots + Vic Chase

Natalie Elwell + Vanessa Bautista

Amanda Arnold, Michelle Datoc, Dan Pitcher, Lindsey Sherrard, David Phelps, Ali Pitcher, Phil Sherrard, Kate Wallace, Jeff Forte + Brendan Wallace

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Beth Rothrock, Jenn Lowe, Martin Rothrock + Dan Lowe

Beka Cook + Vi Quach

Grigory Makarenko + Anna Hanemann

Dienny Villarroel, Camila + Paolo Penarrieta

Food + Drink

| Hank’s OysterFest XII

Story + Photography by David D’Agostino

For anyone with a ticket to Hank’s OysterFest XII in Old Town, the world was his or her oyster. The menu featured oysters on the half shell, fried oysters, grilled oysters, allyou-can-eat popcorn shrimp, calamari, onion rings, and Old Bay fries. Unlimited craft beer, wine, and OysterFest punch, and tunes from DJ Declau rounded out the evening.

Petra Perkins, Mary Sue and Bernie Champoux, Caitlin O’Handley, Emma, Nick + Chris Perkins

Don + Simone Taylor, Kelly Befort Fischer + Ydes Fischer

Heather + Josh Givens

Maddy Dunivin + Mike Doyle

Michael Shinn + Janie Bauer

Claude Ibrahim + Blanca Veleriano

Karina Brito + Yulia Kem

Kenyetteth Edgerton

Alex Tai, Stephanie Johng + John Lynes

DJ Declau

Mitzi Jiminez + Debbie Wells

NOVEMBER 2019 • 71

THE HI S TORY OF The Lee-Fendall House Story by Alexandria Lindstrom | Photography Submitted by Lee-Fendall House

s vast history, nohistory, wonderit’s onenoencounters theencounters vestiges ofthe thatvestiges past inof that past in With itsit’s vast wonder one mes thatthe still standthat proudly throughout Alexandria. such home, thesuch home, the homes still stand proudly throughoutOne Alexandria.

One ndall House, is the perfect example as it has been home to many notable Lee-Fendall House, is the perfect example as it has been home to many notable s and individuals andindividuals seen manyand historic occurrences its nearly families and seen many historicthrough occurrences through its nearly rs that 250 boreyears greatthat impact howimpact our nation hasour been shaped. boreon great on how nation has been shaped.

1786

Revolutionary War cavalry hero Light-Horse Harry Lee purchases a three-acre parcel of land and sells the half-acre plot at the corner of Washington and Oronoco Streets to his cousin, Philip Fendall.

IIn November, construction is complete and George Washington notes in his diary on November 10th that he dined with the Fendalls in their new house .

A map of the Lee-Fendall property from an insurance declaration

Phillip Fendall marries his third and last wife, the sister of Light-Horse Larry Lee, Mary Lee.

In December, Phillip Fendall Jr. is born.

Philip Jr. will go on to be District Attorney for DC, and be a leader among DC abolitionists. His great-granddaughter Anne Catherine Tredick Wendell (below) would go on to marry the 6th Earl of Carnarvon (whose family seat is Highclere Castle of Downton Abbey fame).

Mary Lee-Fendall dies and the house is purchased by her cousin, Edmund Jennings Lee.

Former President John Quincy Adams stays the night at the house as a guest of Edmund Jennings Lee.

1784 1785 1791 1794 1827 1841

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The Lee-Fendall has served as ahas museum thegardens for the TheHouse Lee-Fendall House served and as a gardens museumfor and past 50 years and it bears testament to America’s story through its through its past 50 years and it bears testament to America’s story many preserved artifacts – both past owners’ belongings many preserved artifacts – both authentic past owners’ authentic belongings and historically replicas – littlereplicas glimpses into glimpses the lives into of the lives of andaccurate historically accurate – little those who livedthose there, each important in their own way.

“What makes who lived there, each important in their own way. “What makes Lee-Fendall special to the community is the sheer scope of the house’s Lee-Fendall special to the community is the sheer scope of the house’s history. Unlikehistory. most other historic house historic museums, Lee-Fendall Unlike most other house museums,was Lee-FendallLee-Fendall was lived in as a family home for almost 200 years, from 1785 to 1969.

This celebrates its 45th lived in as a family home for almost 200 years, from 1785 to 1969. This means that wemeans can tell a broad, storysweeping that ranges from as a that we cansweeping tell a broad, story thatthe ranges fromanniversary the early Republicearly to theRepublic Civil War all theWar wayand up to Rights museum. Plans are to and the Civil all the the Civil way up to the Civil Rights era. When theera. house wasthe built, thewas Constitution yet been created to restore When house built, the hadn’t Constitution hadn’t yet been written; and the house’s last resident owner died the same summer the brick privy and written; and the house’s last resident owner died the same summer that people walked on thewalked moon for Ourfirst story shows remodel the back that people on the first moontime. for the time.

Our story shows how life changed – infor thepeople community, the state, and porch. howfor lifepeople changed – in theincommunity, in in the state, and in the nation over that span of time – and how much we still have in the nation over that span of time – and how much we still have in common with common people who in the Lee-Fendall withlived people whopast,” livedsaid in the past,” saidboard Lee-Fendall board member Megan Ritter.Megan And through the use of itsthe grounds member Ritter. And through use ofasitsa grounds as a popular wedding venue, the Lee-Fendall is trulyHouse a living popular wedding venue, theHouse Lee-Fendall is truly a living museum, making new love stories part of stories its continuing history – and history – and museum, making new love part of its continuing this is one place that definitely blooms with life. this is one place that definitely blooms with life.

2019

1852

Upon Louis’ death, Harriotte and children survive by moving to a house on Seminary Hill and renting out Lee-Fendall.

Louis Cazenove buys the home for his bride Harriotte, a greatgranddaughter of Richard Henry Lee. They renovate house's interior in Greek Revival style, add a hot air furnace, gas heat, and an early plumbing system.

Lee-Fendall House was seized to serve as a hospital during The American Civil War. More than 1,000 wounded or ill soldiers were treated here, and the house is home to the world's first known successful blood transfusion.

Dr. Robert Fleming, who is married to Mary Lee Fleming, purchases the home.

He dies only a year later and Mary’s siblings move in, including her sister Myra Lee Civalier (above).

Follwing Mary Lee Fleming’s death, Robert Downham, heir to liquor distributorship, purchases the home and renovates. But when prohbibition comes to town, Downham loses his liquor license.

John L. Lewis purchases the house. He and wife Myrta use Lee-Fendall as a retreat do much to preserve its history and gardens.

Lee-Fendall opens its doors as a museum.

1850 1863 1870 1903 1937 1974

NOVEMBER 2019 • 73

Social

| Fall Festival at Greenstreet Gardens

Photography by Catherine May Taylor

In Alexandria, the fall season means that it’s time to visit Greenstreet Gardens in Lothian, VA. Just 30-miutes away, Greentstreet Gardens recently their annual Fall Festival which included a Harry Potter themed hay-ride, jumpping pillow, tire tower, corn maze, underground slide, corn box, tractor playground, woodland spiderweb, cow train, face painting, petting zoo & more! Sandy Pony Donuts & Greenspring Brewing Co. were on-site to provide snacks & libatious for visiting families.

To keep up with all of Greentstreet Gardens’ events, be sure to follow them on Facebook and/or visit them online at www.greenstreetgardens.com

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Service

| Fort Belvoir Meet & Greet with the Budweiser Clydesdales

Story + Photography by Catherine May Taylor

The Budweiser Clydesdale is an impressive horse some only get to see on TV. But for a few weeks each year, the horses and their crew go on tour for people to see them up close and personal, showing how magnificent the Clydesdales are beyond our TV screens. The east coast hitch recently wowed an all-ages crowd at Fort Belvoir.

Attendees were able to take photos in front of these gentle giants and watch them march around, leaving the crowd in awe. Ivan and Bandit, the front two younger horses, had everyone laughing and cheering, as they showed off their playfulness and energy. The horses that came to Fort Belvoir were between 6 and 11 years old.

After their trip to Virginia, the Clydesdales were headed back home to Merrimack, New Hampshire, for a muchneeded rest after their tour.

The Vetter Family

Tori Yates

Brian + Noland Roberts

Norah + Amy Rosner

Jennifer + William Jacob

Sarah, Edwin + PJ Hernandez

Sarah, Edwin + PJ Hernandez

NOVEMBER 2019 • 75

The Art of Charcuterie 101 A How-To on Fall Charcuterie with Cafe 44 Executive Chef, Nicki Lewis Story by Alexandria Lindstrom | Photography by Nicki Lewis

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“In the restaurant world, a charcuterie board typically refers to an array of artisan cheeses, cured meats, pickles, jams, honey, nuts or bread,” said Nicki Lewis, executive chef at Cafe 44. While there’s a standard blueprint for all the necessary elements, a plan on which to build the board will yield the greatest results.

“An ideal assortment would be two to four meats and cheeses, a jam, something pickled, something sweet, something savory, and something with crunch. There should both be firm and soft cheeses as well as hard and soft meats, and it’s important to remember that having a variety of textures is key in order to keep everyone’s palate satisfied. It’s also crucial to offer balance in flavors: the salty, the sweet, the acidic,” Lewis continued.

The charcuterie board is also a great place to explore seasonal flavors, and autumn offers fresh produce, spices, and other delights that make our taste buds rejoice. “My fall go-tos are fresh figs, apples, and root vegetables, and the many types of fall squash,” Lewis said.

When it comes to the ultimate nosh, a charcuterie board is the perfect go-to, with an assortment of edibles centered around meat and cheeses that instantly earns you street cred with the crowd. Really, it’s the deli platter we’re all so familiar with, taken to a whole new level. It’s all dressed up and ready to go somewhere fancy, a grown-up version that shows thought and creativity in a way that seems to scream “foodie.” Put out a charcuterie board, and you’re sure to have guests marveling at the ingenuity and meeting of flavors that play off one another. And while it might receive wide acclaim with your guests, the charcuterie board is a simple affair you can put together with ease, making it the ideal addition to any gathering.

When putting a charcuterie board together, one must consider the size of the gathering. “A good ratio per person would be two to four meats and cheeses, 2 ounces of a seasonal jam, 2 ounces of a pickled vegetable, a small handful of dark chocolate chips – the salty meats and dark chocolate pair perfectly – a small handful of a lightly salted nut, a few figs or any fresh fruit, a crunchy cracker, and a salty piece of focaccia.” For tools, Lewis recommends a spreader for soft cheeses, mini tongs, demitasse spoons, and skewers for easy picking. It’s also best to only let it sit out for a few hours unrefrigerated to avoid spoiling. Set the assortment out with some fine wine, et voila! You’ll forever be known as a culinary genius – and we know that’s something you can get on board with.

NOVEMBER 2019 • 77

STOP SCROLLING.

START STROLLING. Next time, browse without a browser. Spend an afternoon strolling Old Town’s King Street mile, the largest collection of independent boutiques in the D.C. region. Step inside local shops offering curated selections of stationery, vintage barware, sustainable fashion and more. Shop national favorites like Warby Parker and West Elm. See why the best finds aren’t delivered, they’re discovered.

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VisitAlexandriaVA.com/OldTown #visitALX

Fashion

| Cocktail Party at Mint Condition

Story + Photography by Jeremiah “JD” Davis

Mint Condition, an Alexandria consignment shop, recently celebrated a bittersweet changing of hands from founder Toni Henderson to its new co-owners, Megan Podolsky and Katie Coslov. The two sisters-inlaw are prepared to buckle down and tackle their newest business endeavor at the Alexandria gem. Coslov, former director of operations at The Shoe Hive, and Podolsky, with 10 years of experience in the consignment industry, will combine their business acumen and lean on their familial connection for strength to navigate any business challenges at Mint Condition. “We’ve always wanted to work on a business together,” Coslov said. “Our family bonds will ease the strain of our workload.”

Katie Coslov, Toni Henderson + Megan Podolsky Lara Miller

Shoshanna Tanner

Courtney White

Ali Cleveland

Stuart Seidner

Marisa Gonzales

Claudia Tramontana + Maranatha Rodriguez

Maurisa Potts + Sarah Marcella

Steven Banks + Toni Henderson

Hockley Walsh

NOVEMBER 2019 • 79

Cool Ice + Sparkling Lights Everything You Need to Know About The Winter Village at Cameron Run Story by Alexandria Lindstrom | Photography Courtesty of NOVA Parks

No matter your age, the holiday season is a magical time of year.

The sights, sounds, and smells are full of all the feels, packed like an overstuffed stocking with memories of the people, places, and things we love and traditions that we cherish. NOVA Parks hopes to help create those memories and establish new traditions with Ice & Lights – The Winter Village at Cameron Run Regional Park.

Running from mid-November to January 5, the Winter Village at Cameron Run is a fully realized winter wonderland with festive fun for the whole family: fire pits; wreath photo-ops; heated igloos; lit design stars; a 100-foot RGB lighted tunnel; a massive walk-thru tree; a magic snowflake maker; tasty treats including hot chocolate, donuts, and pizza at Slice & Ice; holiday 80 • VIP ALEXANDRIA MAGAZINE

merchandise at Bling and Things; and themed, joyful games and activities to get everyone in the spirit of the season – perhaps most importantly, lacing up your skates and getting out on the ice.

“Visitors always love coming to the area to see the beautiful light displays at NOVA Parks, and this year, we’re opening another winter special event called Ice & Lights, transforming Great Waves Waterpark with a 55’x80’ outdoor ice rink that will allow visitors to glide across the ice under twinkling lights,” said park operations superintendent Blythe Russian.

Open throughout the course of the Winter Village, Ice & Lights will also be open weekends through the end of February, providing skate rentals for a nominal fee. Winter Village is like a Christmas gift delivered by the jolly old elf himself.

“We anticipate that the event will draw a number of visitors from around the region to visit Alexandria, and we foresee it being a great success,” said Russian.

If you’re in search of even more holidaythemed fun, check out the nearby Bull Run Festival of Lights, which features 2.5 miles of holiday light displays perfect for viewing on a leisurely drive from comfort of your car as you bask in the glow of countless lights twinkling magically against the night sky. Meadowlark Botanical Gardens lights up as well, stringing up their grounds for a light show set during their Walk of Lights.

NOVA Parks takes getting onto Santa’s nice list very seriously, as they give their all to create the perfect settings for holiday

Glide across the ice at Ice & Lights, The Winter Village at Cameron Run Regional Park in Alexandria, Virginia.

wishes to come true. It’s a chance to lose yourself in the magic of the season – an escape for the senses that takes your heart and mind back to a time when childlike wonder made everything seem special and exciting. At Ice & Lights – The Winter Village at Cameron Run, holiday wishes for special memories are wrapped up and waiting to be delivered.

For more information about admission prices and dates for Ice & Lights – The Winter Village at Cameron Run, visit www.novaparks.com.

NOVEMBER 15 to JANUARY 5

NIGHTLY Ice Skating & Winter Village

JANUARY 6 to FEBRUARY 29 WEEKENDS Ice Skating

Ice & Lights: The Winter Village at Cameron Run Regional Park 4001 Eisenhower Avenue | Alexandria, VA 22304 703-960-0767 | cameron@nvpra.org

www.cameroniceandlights.com

NOVEMBER 2019 • 81

Food + Drink

| Waterfront Beer Garden

Story + Photography by David D’Agostino

How does your garden grow? If it’s the Waterfront Beer Garden by Port City Brewing Company, it grows with porters, and pilsners, and lagers and ales all in a row.

The beer garden popped up recently at Waterfront Park in Old Town. Along with the award-winning craft beer, Haute Dogs served up their signature fast-gourmet food.

Alexandria Colonial Tours shared spooky stories and Port City tested the crowd’s Halloween smarts with trivia.

Several four-legged friends also participated, donning their Halloween best.

Jay, Rose + Maggie Buchanan

Leigh Long, Crosby + Tim Long

Pranav Sikka, Jessy Kandola, Jessica + Jay Kim

Jordan, Jacob , Denise, Elly, Jenny, David + Diane Ramsey

Sarah Becker + Susan Johns

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Jane Powell, Courtney Moses, Denise Coutlakis, Vivian Swiger + Sarah Marshall

Brittani Hux + Simone Robinson

Bob Holtz + Nicholas Zervo

NOVEMBER 2019 • 83

Chef Driven

AUTHENTIC. HANDMADE. ITALIAN. • Wine Dinners • Cooking Classes • Catering • Personal Chef Services • DJ Friday Nights

6361 WALKER LN., ALEXANDRIA, VIRGINIA 22310 Free parking located in the garage directly behind the restaurant.

(703) 313-9700 | www.osteriamarzano.com 84 • VIP ALEXANDRIA MAGAZINE