WRITTEN BY MALLORY HARDGROVE PHOTO BY KAREN PRESECAN

In the shadow of historic battlefields where key events have shaped America's story, Steward and Malanna Henderson have written their own remarkable chapter—a romance that seems predestined and a shared passion for preserving and telling the stories that have shaped our nation.

WRITTEN BY MALLORY HARDGROVE

In the heart of Spotsylvania County, a compassionate organization is quietly making a profound difference in the lives of local families. Wyatt's Closet, which started as a small outreach program in 2022, has blossomed into a vital support system for community members facing unexpected challenges. Its growth from one initiative to a significant community resource is a testament to the power of community and compassion, inspiring all who hear its story.

WRITTEN BY KARIE OWENS

Is your carpet only a few years old and void of stains, but beginning to loosen and wrinkle? Is the only hope of restoring a new look by purchasing a brand-new carpet? The answer is maybe not. An alternative is called carpet stretching.

WRITTEN BY MALLORY HARDGROVE

Patricia Grant, owner of Patricia Grant Agency, LLC, affiliated with Farmers Insurance, has established herself as more than just an insurance provider—she's a community educator and relationship builder with over three decades of experience in the property and casualty insurance industry.

WRITTEN BY MALLORY HARDGROVE

With over two decades of experience in the cleaning industry, Ryan Seidman, owner of Heaven's Best Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning of Stafford, brings more than just a spotless carpet to the table. With a focus on professionalism, employee well-being, and community engagement, this local business offers something truly refreshing—a commitment to integrity and personalized service.

WRITTEN BY MALLORY HARDGROVE PHOTO BY KAREN PRESECAN

In the bustling community of Stafford, Virginia, one local business owner has been quietly hustling, building her beauty empire while raising her daughter as a single mother. Kathryn "Kat" Halstead, owner of Kat's Beauty Lounge and Chatham Heights Beauty Co., has not just transformed personal challenges into professional triumphs, but has also shown remarkable resilience in the face of adversity, creating a stable, loving home for her 11-year-old daughter, Leela.

WRITTEN BY DR. KATRINA SPIES, DVM

Storms, fires, floods, even power outages can happen when we least expect them. While we often prepare emergency plans for ourselves and our families, pets are often an afterthought. They shouldn’t be. Our animals depend on us, especially in a crisis. 

WRITTEN BY CHERICE TAYLOR

May's a whirlwind with Mother's Day, testing, and graduations – joy and stress mixed as the school year wraps up and big changes become visible. How do we, as families, navigate this and support our kids' emotions (and our own)? The million-dollar question, right?

WRITTEN BY DR. KATRINA SPIES, DVM

Spring brings warmer weather, blooming flowers, and the start of allergy season. Like us, pets can suffer from allergies that often appear as itching, ear infections, or digestive issues. While we can’t cure allergies, there are steps we can take to manage them—and help keep your furry family members feeling their best.

WRITTEN BY MALLORY HARDGROVE PHOTO BY KAREN PRESECAN

"At the heart of it, my business is all about helping people feel more connected—to their community, their neighbors, and the businesses that serve them," says Dori Stewart, publisher and entrepreneur, whose own journey mirrors the resilience and vision driving female business owners across Fredericksburg. "Being a female entrepreneur means I get to write my own story, take risks, and create opportunities—not just for myself, but for others."

WRITTEN BY KARIE OWENS

What makes an effective volunteer?

Volunteers are dependable and consistent in their commitment to the organization(s) they serve. They show up and forget about themselves. An effective volunteer is passionate and motivated, with the desire to make a positive impact.

WRITTEN BY KARIE OWENS

Hardwood floors are beautiful and timeless but over the years can show signs of wear and tear. Fortunately, hardwood floors can be restored to their original appeal through a process known as sanding and refinishing. What exactly does this process entail, and how do you know if it’s the best option for your floors? 

WRITTEN BY OSCAR ESPINOZA

So, you’ve decided to give your home a fresh coat of color! 🎨 Maybe you’re dreaming of a serene sage bedroom or a daring crimson accent wall. But before you hand over the keys to your castle (or even just the garage), there are a few crucial  questions to ask your painting contractor. Think of this as your “pre-paint pep talk” to avoid brushstrokes of regret. Let’s dive in!  

WRITTEN BY MALLORY HARDGROVE

When Stafford homeowners envision a kitchen or bathroom transformation, they turn to Kitchens For You, Inc. for its unique blend of exceptional craftsmanship, reliability, and personalized service. As a veteran-owned and operated business, Kitchens For You Inc. has been a trusted name in the community from Woodbridge to Ladysmith since 2012.

WRITTEN BY MALLORY HARDGROVE PHOTO BY KAREN PRESECAN

For nearly three decades, Deborah and Wayne Conley have called Stafford home, raising two sons together, pursuing careers that have impacted their community, and building a life full of purpose, connection, and exploration.

WRITTEN BY AARON JOHNSON

Few innovations have been made in my lifetime that have had as much of an impact on the world as the battery-powered lawn mower. Not only has it revolutionized the way we care for our lawns, it has reduced air pollution and made our neighborhoods quieter. 

WRITTEN BY MALLORY HARDGROVE

Luxuria Totalis, a luxury spa experience that has quickly established itself as a haven for those seeking rejuvenation and self-care. Since opening their storefront doors in March 2024, owner Briana Way and her team of skilled professionals have been dedicated to providing exceptional spa experiences with their signature all-inclusive Headspa services leading the way.

WRITTEN BY REBECCA CHANDA

Tattooing is an ancient art form, but the reasons for removing tattoos have evolved along with it. Whether it’s to erase an impulsive decision, make room for new ink, or remove a memory best forgotten, laser tattoo removal has become the gold standard. At Bloom Medical Aesthetics, our licensed healthcare practitioners understand the removal process of unwanted ink and the art of tattooing at its core. 

WRITTEN BY MALLORY HARDGROVE PHOTO BY KAREN PRESECAN

For Angela Richwine and her three sons, life is a journey filled with growth, athletics, and adventure. Each member of the Richwine family embraces opportunities every chance they get.

WRITTEN BY DR. KATRINA SPIES, DVM

April is both National Heartworm Awareness Month and Prevention of Lyme Disease in Dogs Month, making it the perfect time to focus on protecting pets from these serious yet preventable diseases. Understanding how these infections are transmitted and taking proactive steps can help ensure your dog stays safe and healthy.