1. Host a Fall Soirée

Bring the season to life right at home with a fall-inspired gathering. Think warm candlelight, cozy textures, and a charcuterie board that feels almost too pretty to touch. We shared a little inspiration on our recent Instagram Reel and blog post— proving that hosting doesn’t have to be complicated or over the top. With seasonal cocktails, rich fall colors, and good company, you’ll have everything you need for an unforgettable evening.

2. Go See a Show at The Kennedy Center

A night at The Kennedy Center is the perfect way to dress up, unwind, and soak in a bit of culture. From Broadway favorites to symphonic performances, the venue always delivers an unforgettable experience. Ana recently saw The Sound of Music and couldn’t stop raving about how magical it was. Add it to your list for a romantic date night or a girls’ evening out — it’s a quintessential fall outing that feels just the right amount of fancy.

3. Start a Book Club

Cooler weather calls for cozy rituals, and there’s nothing better than gathering your friends for a good book and a glass of wine. Choose something from our Sweater Weather Reading List to kick things off, then rotate hosts and genres each month. It’s the perfect excuse to slow down, connect, and carve out time for something that’s just for you.

4. Visit Cox Farms Fall Festival

If you’re in the mood for nostalgia, nothing beats a day at Cox Farms. It’s a Northern Virginia fall staple for a reason — think hayrides, pumpkin picking, giant slides, and all the apple cider and kettle corn your heart desires. Whether you bring your kids or go with friends for a carefree day, it’s an instant mood booster that captures everything we love about autumn.

5. Hike at Great Falls

Few things compare to the beauty of Great Falls in the fall. The golden leaves, crisp air, and sound of rushing water make it one of the DMV’s most scenic escapes. It’s the ideal weekend reset — take a slow morning, grab a latte, and enjoy one of the many trails that offer stunning overlooks. Pro tip: go early to catch the soft morning light (and avoid the crowds).

6. Go to Night of the Living Zoo

Halloween season gets a sophisticated twist at the Smithsonian’s Night of the Living Zoo. It’s an adults-only evening with live music, themed cocktails, and costumes that go way beyond your typical spooky party. With the zoo as your backdrop, it’s a night that’s equal parts festive and unique — a must for anyone who loves a reason to dress up and celebrate.

The season is fleeting, but its magic lingers — in the laughter, the golden light, and the little memories made along the way. What is your favorite thing to do in the fall in the DMV?

xo, The MAB Team

The post 6 Local To Do’s This Fall! appeared first on Makeup by Ana B.

Whether you’re planning a friends’ night in or a backyard gathering, here’s a peek at how we created our chic, autumn-inspired evening — and how you can recreate it, too.

1. Setting the Mood & The Décor

When it comes to fall entertaining, atmosphere is everything. We wanted our soirée to feel warm, welcoming, and effortlessly elegant — a space where guests could laugh over wine, graze on beautiful boards, and wrap up in cozy throws as the sun set.

We layered in all the textures that make fall feel so good: soft plaids, neutral pumpkins, dried leaves, and gentle candlelight. Tables were lined with mini pumpkins, flickering flameless candles in votive holders, and touches of orange and cream plaid in a cute table cloth – the perfect balance of rustic and refined.

A curated playlist of acoustic favorites and soft indie songs (you can find plenty of “Autumn Chill” playlists on Spotify!) played in the background, setting a relaxed yet upbeat mood.

2. The Food Spread: Yummy Eats Made Easy

We kept the menu simple but stunning with help from Wegmans catering. Their options made it effortless to serve crowd-pleasing favorites that looked as good as they tasted.

Here’s what we served:

-Sushi platters for something fresh and unexpected – a MAB fave every get-together!

-Mini sandwiches filled with turkey & brie, roast beef & horseradish, and pesto veggie.

-A charcuterie board overflowing with cheeses, meats, nuts, and fruits.

-Seasonal salads with roasted vegetables and cranberries for color and flavor.

The food table doubled as part of our décor — we used wooden boards and textured linens to give everything that elevated “effortless hostess” look.

The Sweet Touch: Our S’mores Board

No MAB soirée would be complete without a signature dessert moment — and our s’mores board stole the show. Guests roasted marshmallows over the firepit and got creative with their combinations.

Our favorite board additions:

-Graham crackers (classic and chocolate)

-Assorted cookies (fudge stripes or oreos)

-Milk, dark, and white chocolate bars

-Marshmallow fluff spread for a decadent topper

-Reeses Chocolate for an elevated chocolate center

We displayed everything on a large wooden tray, creating a look that was both beautiful and inviting. It was the perfect way to wrap up the night — a little nostalgic, a little gourmet, and a whole lot of fun.

3. Our Signature Drink: Fall Sangria 🍎

We wanted a drink that felt festive but easy to batch — something that guests could sip all evening long. Enter our Fall Sangria: a mix of crisp apple cider, Sauvignon Blanc, a touch of bourbon, and slices of fresh fruit.

What we mixed:

-4 cups apple cider

-1 bottle Sauvignon Blanc

-1 cup bourbon (we used Four Roses for a sweeter addition -adjust to taste)

-1 apple and 1 orange, thinly sliced

-3–4 cinnamon sticks

We combined everything in a large pumpkin pitcher, let it chill for a few hours, and served it over ice. The result? Cozy, spiced perfection.

Non-alcoholic twist: Use sparkling apple cider instead of wine and skip the bourbon for a family-friendly version that’s just as delicious.

4. Hosting Tips from Our Team

A few takeaways we’ll be using again (and again!):

-Prep everything early so you can enjoy the night — assemble boards and chill sangria before guests arrive.

-Layer your lighting — mix candles, string lights, and lanterns for a soft, flattering glow.

-Keep bugs away with citronella torches and bug spray to keep away any lingering mosquitoes .

-Keep the playlist going — music is key to keeping the energy warm and inviting.
 

Our fall soirée reminded us that you don’t need a special occasion to celebrate — just good friends, good food, and a little creativity.

Here’s to savoring the season, one cozy gathering at a time.

xo, The MAB Team

Fall soirées aren’t the only thing on our list this season! Ready to explore all the cozy, colorful fun the DMV has to offer? Head over to our blog to see 6 Local To Do’s This Fall — the perfect companion to your next pumpkin spice moment.

The post Host Your Own Fall Soiree appeared first on Makeup by Ana B.

Shop the Reads:
one | two | three | four | five
six | seven | eight | nine | ten

1.The Many Lives of Mama Love is raw, emotional, and powerful—perfect if you’re into memoirs about reinvention, resilience, and real-life redemption arcs.

2.If you’re in the mood for sweet sisterhood stories and a behind-the-scenes look at growing up in a famous family, Sisters First is a warm and nostalgic pick.

7.The Glass Castle is one of those wild, real-life stories that’ll have you saying “wait… what?!” every other chapter—and still leave you inspired in the end.

10.Obsessed with a twisty thriller? The Silent Patient will have you turning pages all night trying to figure out why she stopped speaking—and what really happened.

Add even more books to your TBR list with Ana B’s Cozy Season Reading List!

The post Sweater Weather Reads appeared first on Makeup by Ana B.

1.You Get All the Behind-the-Scenes Moments

Photographers focus on the big shots, filled with glamour and edits. Our content creator captures the more candid moments & helps you create fun & easily resharable reels!

2.Content You Can Post Right Away

No waiting weeks for galleries—your unedited photos and videos are delivered within 24-48 hours. Perfect for sharing on Instagram stories, TikTok, or your business page while the excitement is still fresh.

3.More Freedom for Your Photographer/Videographer

We’re not here to replace your photo/video team—we’re here to complement them! Our creator stays in the background, getting extra content without interfering.

4.Raw and Real > Posed and Polished

There’s something special about raw footage—it’s authentic, emotional, and totally you. We highlight the real moments you’ll want to remember.

5.A Dedicated Eye for Social-Worthy Shots

Our content creator knows how to find the lighting, angles, and details that look amazing online. Think of it as a behind-the-scenes bestie who just happens to have a great eye.

6.Perfect for All Types of Events

From weddings to corporate retreats, birthday bashes to branding shoots—if you’re making memories, we’ll be there to help you share them.

7.Easy to Repurpose for Reels & TikToks

The content we deliver is ideal for quick edits, highlight reels, and social storytelling. Great for brides, brands, and anyone who loves a good montage.

8.You’ll Actually Be in the Moment

Instead of asking your friends or team to capture clips on their phones, let us take over. You stay present—we’ll get the shot.

Bonus: It’s More Affordable Than You Think!

With multiple packages to choose from, our content creation service is designed to fit different events and budgets.

Ready to capture it all? Whether you’re walking down the aisle or unveiling your brand, we are here to document the magic.

Click here to learn more and book your event coverage!

Still not sure? Schedule a 15-minute consultation here to ask our content creator, Karolina, all your questions!

The post 8 Reasons To Add Content Creation To Your Next Event appeared first on Makeup by Ana B.

Shop the List:
one | two | three | four
five | six

1.This galvanized tub by Better Home & Gardens does double duty as cute decor and perfect storage for drinks at your summer get-togethers!
2.Every party needs a charcuterie or veggie board and this rustic serving board will give perfect summer vibes to your spread.
3.Cute and functional, this oval rattan caddy is perfect for holding silverware at your summer parties – and way better than storing in a cup!
4.Being outside is a must at summer parties, so light up this 8-wick citronella candle that will also help keep mosquitoes away.
5.Enjoy wine and mocktails out of these chip and break resistant glasses from Crate & Barrel – perfect by the pool or with littles running around.
6.You won’t have to worry about your nice china breaking at parties this summer when you swap them for these melamine dinner plates from Crate & Barrel.

What are some of your summer hosting must haves?

Xo, The MAB Team

Get summer break ready with Ana B’s Beach Reading List!

The post Summer Hosting Must Haves appeared first on Makeup by Ana B.

Shop the Books:
one | two | three | four | five
six | seven | eight | nine | ten

1.I’ve shared The Wedding People before, but it’s such a great beach read I had to share it again! About an unexpected wedding guest and the surprising people she meets that helps her start anew, this is a super easy read because you won’t want to put it down.
2.The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, is a classic must read for everyone! This book has helped transform lives of people of all ages and career paths – and it’s one that I frequently look back to as a refresher for when I feel stuck in a rut.
3.When I say this book kept me up way into the middle of the night because I had to know what happened next – I’m not lying! The Housemaid Is Watching is so packed full of tension and twists that you won’t be able to put it down.
7.This inspiring memoir, In The Country We Love, about immigrants hits home for me since I come from the Latin community and is a must read! This book brought forth so many emotions and is hard to read, but is so important – especially with recent current events.
10.The Messy Truth is like your no-filter bestie in book form—funny, honest, and totally bingeable.You should toss it into your beach bag because it’s the perfect mix of real talk and feel-good vibes while you soak up the sun!

Let me know what books are on your reading list that I have to add to mine!

xo,
Ana B.

Want more summer inspo? Head to my Swimwear Essentials for suits you’ll love to wear!

The post Ana B’s Beach Reading List appeared first on Makeup by Ana B.

Decorations That Won’t Break The Bank

Cute decor doesn’t mean having to spend a ton to decorate! Make your party space on theme with fun balloon hearts hung on the wall and heart streamers dangling between. Elevate your tablescape by topping a white tablecloth with a deep red cheesecloth to add texture and color and scatter heart-shaped votives between dishes. Simple on theme touches will make your party look fun and chic!

Sips & Snacks

A party is never complete without some tasty treats and drinks! For galentine’s day, lean in to chocolatey treats and savory options that are easy to eat while socializing and playing games. Some of our favorites:

–Sushi Board – an assortment of raw & cooked rolls and sashimi
–Breakfast Board – small pancakes/waffles with toppings & bacon or sausage
–Dessert Board – brownies, cupcakes, chocolates, and candies, oh my!
–Hummus & Veggie Tray – your favorite hummus with veg and crackers for dipping
–Fruit Skewers – make them more festive by cutting the strawberries into hearts
–Tea Sandwiches – little finger sandwiches with various fillings

Make even your drinks look on theme by tying a red or pink bow to each glass and filling with a pink drink like rose prosecco or aperol spritzes!

Aperol Spritz
-2 oz. Prosecco
-1.5 oz Aperol
-Splash of Soda Water
-Orange slice or Orange peel
-Optional: Olives

Add all ingredients to a glass with ice and garnish with either an orange slice or peel. Make it feel like you’re in Italy by adding an olive or 2 as is tradition!

Get Crafty and Playful

Who doesn’t love playing games with friends?! Games are a great way to kick off your Galentine’s Day celebration and get everyone laughing and bonding! Start with Meet-and-Greet Bingo to break the ice and get to know fun facts about your friends while the party gets underway. Then, get competitive with a round of Galentine’s Scattergories, where everyone will race to come up with answers that fit quirky categories. Test your rom-com knowledge with Movie Matching by matching iconic movie quotes to the correct romantic comedy, and end with some laughs in Musical Cups—a fun twist on musical chairs where the last person standing wins! Get a box of chocolates or a mini bottle of champagne as a gift for the winners of each game to make it even more fun!

Find all the printable games here for free to use for your party!

Wrap up the party with a fun and creative activity like candle painting? Get some taper candles and acrylic paint, and each guest can create a one-of-a-kind piece! Set up a table covered in kraft paper to protect the surface from paint spills, and for an extra theme touch, paint white XO’s all over the table cover. Not only will the candles serve as beautiful decor, but the painted table will tie everything together, creating a charming and memorable end to your day!

Get glammed up for your party with our MAB Artists or add group makeup lessons for a fun addition to the party! Book using code GALENTINES for a special 15% off!

The post How to Throw a Chic Galentine’s Day Soiree! appeared first on Makeup by Ana B.

1.Incorporate Journaling Into Your Daily Routine

I love taking time to journal most mornings, it’s a great way to center my thoughts and get ready for the day. It doesn’t have to be an overwhelming task either! I love using this Five Minute Journal to acknowledge the things that make me thankful every day and keep me mindful of what’s going on in my life. Lately I’ve been enjoying my journal time with chamomile tea using this Electric Kettle we got as a gift this Christmas.

2.Make Your Daily Walks Into An Investment

Yes, I’m talking about going out into the cold, but hear me out! Getting outside for even a 10 minute walk can lift your spirits as your body releases endorphins – the natural happy hormones – getting you into a better mood. Bundle up in my favorite Alo Sherpa Jacket (or this cute affordable option) & bring a hot cup of coffee or tea this Brumate Travel Mug so you stay cozy the entire walk and enjoy some of the fresh air. I love utilizing this time to also listen to a podcast to get me motivated to meet my financial goals. Two of my favorites right now are “Financial Feminist” and “Networth & Chill” with Vivan Tu – they’ve really helped me understand investing in a straightforward, practical way.

3.Grab Breakfast With Your Girlfriends

I love taking time to yap with my girlfriends, it’s amazing how something as simple as grabbing a bite to eat with good friends can cheer you up! I never find myself regretting getting out of the house to socialize and I always feel like my cup is more filled after seeing my girlfriends. One of my current favorite spots to grab breakfast is Greenheart Juice Shop – not only is their food delicious, but it’s healthy too! From multiple delicious smoothies to incredibly delicious waffles, you have to add this spot to your “Want To Visit” list.

4. Make Your Evenings Cozy 

Evenings lately are getting bitterly cold, especially with the recent snow, and it’s so important to take time to relax at the end of the day. I take advantage of the cold nights by making my spaces cozy as possible. Lately I’m loving this Diffuser that looks and feels like a mini fireplace for my office or anywhere I’m hanging out. I also fell in love with this heated blanket that my friend owns and then I got it as a Christmas present!  In my free time, I’m digging into my Cozy Season Reading List, which has some great reads!

5.Host An Evening With Friends

Hosting a get together with friends makes any cold winter evening so much more fun. One of my favorites that I hosted for my friends was a candle making class out of my home! Loudoun Wicks was so easy to coordinate with and handled everything from setup to helping us make our own candle step-by-step. Add some light apps and cocktails or mocktails and this is an easy way to make winter more enjoyable!

Want to curb winter blues with some glam? Book a 1-on-1 makeup lesson (or grab a group of friends!)  with one of our MAB Artistry Pros now through February 1st and get 25% off when you book using code GLOWUP!

The post 5 Ways To Glow Up In 2025 appeared first on Makeup by Ana B.

Practice His Swing At Top Golf

For the dad that loves to golf, take him for a fun day or evening at Top Golf! Top Golf has a great setup for being able to partake in an activity together, while also being able to have some great bar snacks and drinks. Book a time online or call ahead to get on the waitlist!

Dinner at Parc De Ville

If your dad is a foodie, he will love rooftop brunch or dinner at Parc De Ville in the Mosaic District! Available on their brunch menu or rooftop lounge, the croque madame or the bistro burger are must eats. Pair with a half dozen oysters and a frozen aperol spritz, and it’s the perfect combo for a father’s day meal! Head to Open Table and make a reservation.

Catch a National’s Game

If your dad is a baseball lover then you’re in luck! The National’s are home for the weekend and Father’s Day will be playing game 3 against the Marlins in the afternoon. Grab some tickets and get ready to cheer with Dad over some beers & hot dogs.

Go Hiking In Shenandoah & Visit a Distillery

If your dad is more of the outdoorsy type, then he will love spending a day hiking with you in Shenandoah. For an easier hike check out Doyles River Falls for a 3.3 mile loop with hiking along a stream and 2 waterfalls. But if your dad is an avid hiker, consider making it an early day and hike Old Rag for incredible views of the whole valley. End your hike in Sperryville by hoping over to CopperFox Distillery for some local VA Whiskey or Pen Druid Brewing if your dad loves beers. 

Want to buy dad a gift? Head over to our Father’s Day Gift Guide!

The post 4 Local Things To Do With Dad This Father’s Day appeared first on Makeup by Ana B.

The time between January and March is one of the hardest for me and I’m sure I’m not the only one. I love the first snow and even the second snow. But as the months drag on, some of the drearier days take a toll on me and I am very much tempted to hibernate in a revolving door of pajamas and Netflix until Spring. The last few years, I’ve made a few changes that have led to more joy long after the holidays are done.  Here are 5 things I’ve found that help conquer the winter blues.

1.Plan a weekend girls trip – 

Two years ago my girlfriends and I stayed at this Riverfront Airbnb just a short drive away. We made breakfast together, enjoyed the jacuzzi and river view for hours, tried out the local restaurants, and even did a little work out together. Let’s just say we all enjoyed a mini break from the kiddos and our hubbies and it’s why we have another trip already planned. Keep a look out for my Charleston blog post trip! 

2.Take a daily walk and enjoy the crisp air – 

Studies show that being in nature lowers your stress-hormone and decreases your heart rate. So getting outside, even though it’s cold, will help your body produce endorphins that will naturally help you feel good and cut your stress! And in the words of Elle Woods, endorphins make you happy and happy people just don’t shoot their husbands.

Get some of my cold weather faves below:
Shacket | Leggings | Beanie

3.Schedule a weekly date with friends – 

Since I primarily work from home, getting out of the house for something other than a target run has to be intentionally planned. A lunch date with a good friend in the colder months always does the trick.  One of my favorite spots in Mosaic is Parc De Ville – you can’t go wrong with their classic burger & fries or their body-warming french onion soup!

4.Plan a post-holiday weekend staycation with your family – 

After the holidays, it’s so normal to feel the let down of all the celebrations which can lead to getting into a funk. Curb that by planning a fun family weekend away! My family recently went to Deep Creek Lake, MD for a weekend of fun in the snow, where we stayed at this gorgeous airbnb with incredible views of the lake. You can’t beat walks in the snow and time spent in a hot tub while the snow falls!

5.Book a relaxing facial – 

Relax while your skin gets refreshed and glowy with a facial at MAB Spa. I make taking care of myself a priority year round and that includes my skin. The added benefit while getting a facial – it’s a purposeful hour of resting in an otherwise busy month!

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The post Conquering The Winter Blues appeared first on Makeup by Ana B.