We discussed all the things – relationships, spring events, retirement planning, the wealth transfer and the language of money. That’s what I love about smart, confident women—the conversation goes much deeper.

We tapped two of our local home and entertainment experts, Amanda Mertins of Patina Polished Living and Rachel Gang of Helen Olivia, for tips on outdoor entertaining.

It began with an email forwarded to me, “Read this.” Alexandra shared that with the passing of her mother she had taken over the reins of American in Paris on King Street.

A common thread I hear and even feel myself: there is no divide between home and work – when you work from home.

As I walk up to Goodies Frozen Custard on Commerce Street, a woman walking in front of me in heels runs to our photographer, Renée and hugs her.

“I don't sleep, I’ll be up at 5:30am, in the office by 7:30am, and up till 1am that morning,” said Brandi Yee of Spring2ACTion, Alexandria's annual 24-hour giving day.

She says her true trajectory aligned in 2017 through the Chamber. “I met Through the Fourth Wall, a production company based in Alexandria.

Natalie O’Connor is a whirlwind of energy, gliding across the wood floor of her art loft, from painting to painting, explaining the artist’s journey, shuffling back to open a window, offer a chair, show us more paintings, offer us champagne. Yes, please, it’s 5 o’clock somewhere. 

We tapped two of our local fitness and health experts, Adrien Cotton of Adrien Cotton Wellness and Dr. Shara Posner of Back to Health Center to gain insight into their strength training, energy fuel and sleep habits.

Since I began working with Meghan, what I’ve enjoyed most about our relationship is the reverse mentorship. Every day there is a knowledge exchange, and when we’re all together, age is irrelevant. We’re just a couple girls having fun and creating content that promotes the city we all love: Alexandria.

Kristina started painting as a kid. “I had severe dyslexia and academia was hard for me. My grandmother helped me get my first exhibition in Palm Springs when I was 21. My family was very supportive, as was interior designer Arthur Elrond. He fell in love with my work and championed me.”

As we narrow in on our backdrop, Lauren greets us in a long flowered dress, and pulls her sunglasses down to say hello. She is embodying spring and we’re ready to roll.