“I feel most empowered when I’m lifting up other women. I love helping others. It’s what I feel that we were put on this earth to do.”
ALLISON PRIEBE Allison Priebe wants her customers to feel like royalty. That’s the inspiration behind the name of her Old Town Boutique, Queen Bee, a jewelry store offering unique pieces at an affordable price. “One of the things I love most about my shop is that our products make a woman feel and look beautiful. Our products are really special, and I like to think about all the memories they’ve become a part of, like weddings, graduations or anniversary parties.” Allison, a journalism major who worked for NBC News in London, had the inspiration for Queen Bee while working on Capitol Hill for U.S. Senator Max Cleland. “I loved jewelry and accessories, but I couldn’t find anything affordable. I took some classes through the Smithsonian where I learned to make jewelry, and I started doing trunk shows on Capitol Hill where I got a really big following.” She was named one of the hottest up-and-coming designers by Washingtonian Magazine and invited by Second Lady Lynne Cheney to showcase her pieces at the Naval Observatory.
Allison, an Alexandria native, says she remains active in the community, volunteering at the Campagna Center and supporting charitable organizations that include Suited for Change and Friends of Guest House through fundraisers and clothing drives. She continues to dabble in journalism, working with local media outlets like Local Kicks and The District Dish. A healthy lifestyle advocate, Allison runs a Facebook group supporting women in reaching their fitness goals. “I feel most empowered when I’m lifting up other women. I love helping others. It’s what I feel that we were put on this earth to do.” One very special woman in Allison's life who she loves to empower is her mom, who suffered from congestive heart failure this past August. "We almost lost her. A pacemaker saved her life. This year she will be celebrating her 80th birthday and we are thrilled! Heart health has become so important to me. I know I have been inspired to keep working to lose weight to make my heart's job easier."
FEBRUARY 2021 • 45
