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.

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.

Spa Day With SkinSpirit

I loved how my skin was glowing after a diamond glow facial from SkinSpirit. After the cold of winter, facials are a much needed treat for our skin – so mom is guaranteed to love this gift! Mention me when you book for mom and get a $50 reward!

Girls Night In With Simply Cheesy Boards

I love using Simply Cheesy Boards for my get-togethers! A small, woman-owned business, they do an incredible job of making delicious charcuterie boards and grazing tables designed to fit your taste and needs. Order a customized board and make some cocktails/mocktails while having a movie marathon with mom! She’ll love quality time with you.

Makeup Lessons with MAB Artistry

MAB Pro’s do more than just weddings, they’re also ready to teach you a new look with our makeup lessons. Mom will have so much fun learning a new look for Spring/Summer with you – bring some bubbly to make it even more special! Even better, now through May 11th you can get 15% off group makeup lessons when you book using code MOM2025.

Get Crafty At Loudoun Wicks

I love experience gifts and the candle making party I threw for myself and my family was an absolute blast! Loudon Wicks is a phenomenal gift whether you want to give mom some of their premade soy-wax candles or want to learn how to make candles together. You can go to their studio or host at home, which I did, and have a fun evening making custom candles!

Treat Mom to Brunch or Dinner

A lunch or dinner out is always a treat for me as a mom of boys! No phones are out and we get to focus on each other. One of my favorite places right now is Ilili at the DC Wharf – hello delicious food and gorgeous vibes! Take mom for brunch and enjoy the decadent Grandma Marie’s Lebanese Toast or take her for dinner and get the incredible Mixed Grill to share!

From our MAB family to yours, we hope Mother’s Day is special for you and yours!

xo, Ana B.

Thumbnail Photograph: Photos By Kristen Gardner

The post Local Gifts For Mother’s Day 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.

1.Girls Night Out

I make a point to go out with my girlfriends at least once a month to a show or concert. It’s fun to get away from being a business owner and a mom and just be me! Most recently, we went to see Moulin Rouge at the Kennedy Center and it was absolutely amazing! While the show has ended it’s tenure at the Kennedy Center, I’ve put together a list of other shows and concerts coming up in the next month that would be perfect for a girls night out.

-Laugh with your girls at a comedy show at DC Improv or The Kennedy Center.

-Be mesmerized by the acrobatic feats and surreal music of Cirque Du Soleil Echo, playing now through October 22nd in Tysons Corner.

-Or go enjoy the Zac Brown Band at Merriweather Post Pavilion October 6th or Meluma at the Capital One Arena on Oct 19th!

2.Try A New Restaurant

I love trying new cuisines, and the DMV is filled with new restaurants opening every month, making my must try list keep growing! Ivy On The Lake was a gorgeous Middle Eastern/Mediterranean fusion restaurant with so many delicious offerings to choose from, like the to die for fried chicken and waffles! Brunch with my girls was made extra fun with their Brunch Bundle that included a classic brunch and bottomless mimosas for $55 per person.

Next on my list is Kappo, a Kaiseki/Izakaya Japanese style restaurant that showcases an 8-course wagyu-centric tasting menu. I’ll be sure to share a full review after I go so you can plan your visit!

3.Visit Cox Farms

Year after year, my family’s visit to Cox Farms Pumpkin Patch remains a cherished autumn tradition. It’s truly the essence of fall encapsulated in a single destination. From trying to race our way through the corn maze to selecting the perfect pumpkins to line our front door, Cox Farms has brought us unforgettable memories. We can’t wait to go back and take our yearly family picture in front of the pumpkin wall!

4.Weekend Getaway In Charlottesville

I recently worked a wedding at Pippin Hill Farm and now I need to book a staycation to Charlottesville! The quiet college town somehow manages to still give small town vibes and in the lush Shenandoah Valley, it provides some of the most gorgeous views as you visit the Central Virginia wineries. A must stay for your visit is the Foxfield Inn, an award-winning Bed & Breakfast, that provides both comfort and luxury, and enjoy their fall specialty: apple pancakes! With so many events in the fall, like the annual Foxfield Horse Races or Fall Fest Weekend at Bellair Farms, Charlottesville is the perfect fall escape for a weekend away with your partner or friends.

5.Hike the Billy Goat Trail at Great Falls

Fall is the perfect time of year to get outside in the DMV area! The weather is finally at a cool temperature and the summer humidity has disappeared. I love getting outside and going for walks and when I want a change of scenery, Great Falls is the perfect spot. With the gorgeous falls at the end of Great Falls Billy Goat Trail A, it’s a 1.75 mile hike with some challenging spots to hike up, but be sure to go early to beat the crowds. The Billy Goat Trail C is the easiest of the trails which features a 1.6 mile stroll with river views and a small waterfall. It’s even dog friendly, for my followers with 4-legged family members! Be sure to check out the Great Falls website before you go to verify all the trails are open and to see what parking is closest to the trail you want to take!

What’s on your bucket list for this fall?

Xo, Ana B.

Want more inspo for fall? Check out my Cozy Season Reading List for what I’m going to be curled up reading on these chilly fall nights!

The post Ana B’s Fall Bucket List appeared first on Makeup by Ana B.

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

1.Step into the glamour of Old Hollywood and follow Evelyn Hugo’s mesmerizing journey through fame, love, and secrets in ‘The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo‘—a tale that will sweep you off your feet and leave you breathless.
2.In this harrowing yet inspiring world of two sisters in Nazi-occupied France, ‘The Nightingale‘ weaves an unforgettable tale of courage, sacrifice, and the unbreakable bond of love.
3.Dive into ‘It Ends with Us,’ a powerful story that explores love, resilience, and the complexities of relationships, that will make it hard to put down as you want to know what happens next.
4.Add ‘How Are You Really‘ by Jenna Kutcher to your reading list for a dose of real talk, inspiring insights, and practical advice that will guide you to embrace your true self and create a life you love.
5. Embrace your innate artistic spirit with ‘Big Magic,’ a captivating journey into the world of creativity, where Elizabeth Gilbert inspires you to live a life driven by curiosity and passion.
6.Unlock the pages of ‘The Personal Librarian‘ and get ready to embark on a journey through history, and the extraordinary life of a woman who dared to defy the odds.
7.’The Unhoneymooners‘ is a hilarious and heartwarming enemies-to-lovers adventure that will leave you believing in second chances and tropical paradise.
8.Add ‘Lessons in Chemistry‘ to your “To Be Read” list for a humorous  and inspiring tale of a brilliant woman determined to break the glass ceiling.
9.Put ‘You Are a Badass Every Day‘ by Jen Sincero on your reading list to discover daily doses of inspiration, motivation, and practical wisdom that will empower you to conquer challenges and live your most badass life.
10.Discover ‘Wrong Place Wrong Time,’ a gripping real-life thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat, proving that sometimes truth is stranger than fiction.

If you’re looking for more literary escapes, be sure to explore my Summer Reading List for a diverse range of stories that can transport you to different worlds all year round. Happy reading!

Xo, Ana

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

1. How did you get started in spray tans and what inspired you to open the Organic Bronzing Studio? 

I had spray tanned a few times in the past and never seemed to love my tans. They smelled funny, felt sticky until you rinsed, and my tan was never great. I never loved the process or ingredients and I wanted a better experience and better product, so I sought out a cosmetic formulation company and started to make a “cleaner” spray tanning solution. OBS started as a part time side hustle, then I became a certified Spray Technician and with our proprietary blends and mobile tanning option, OBS was born! A better experience and amazing tan was my mission.

2. Can you explain the benefits of choosing an organic spray tan over traditional methods?

Let’s Talk Tan: all self-tanning or professional tanning products do have an ingredient in them called DHA (Dihydroxyacetone). It’s primarily derived from sugar beet or sugar cane, but it is a simple Carbohydrate created in a lab, so there isn’t anything truly organic about it. Organic ingredients were a priority when looking at what we combine with DHA for our solutions. Ingredients matter as we are applying them to the largest organ of our bodies, our skin!

3. How does your studio ensure a natural and even tan for every client?

Our technicians go through extensive training and apprenticeship to ensure that we all do the process the same. The Skin Consultation on the first appointment is crucial so we understand your skin, color desires and product needs ensuring a great tan everytime by anyone on our bronzing squad.

“A better experience and amazing tan was my mission.”

-Rachel Tyson

4. What are some common misconceptions about spray tans?

The one we hear the most is “ I don’t want to be orange”  and we understand! By choosing the right solution and discussing your tanning vision, we eliminate that from ever happening. Our solutions are designed to mimic the melanin in your skin, not stain or dye it to look bronzed. Your OBS glow should look so natural, no one would believe it’s a spray tan.

5. For a bride wanting a spray tan before her wedding, what should she specify to look the best and how soon before the wedding should she have it done?

Brides are our favorite! When booking the wedding tan, it’s important to book 2 days before your wedding. Most of our brides we see on a Thursday, unless they are traveling.

6. Should a bride do a trial spray tan like she would with hair and makeup?

Absolutely, we highly recommend a trial for the bride. It’s so they know what to expect and we can perfect the wedding glow before the big day. It’s also a great idea to coordinate the trial tan with hair and make-up so the artist can see your Wedding Tan.

7. What should a bride do to prep her skin before an appointment?

The night before her tan, it’s best to shave and exfoliate with a scrub and exfoliating mitt. Also we request no lotions or products on the skin the day of the tan, they can interfere with the solution and the overall development of the bride’s tan. If they do show up with lotion, makeup or deodorant, we have Micellar & Rose Water Cleaning Cloths to clean and hydrate the skin before we tan.

Our solutions are designed to mimic the melanin in your skin, not stain or dye it to look bronzed.

-Rachel Tyson

8. What aftercare tips do you provide to help brides maintain their spray tan for longer?

Post care is as important as the prep work before the glow! We recommend turning down the temperature in the shower to lukewarm, NO loofahs or scrubs with the tan, lotion at least twice a day. To help the tan last long into the honeymoon, we recommend a tan extender lotion that helps boost the tan up to 5 days longer

9. What sets Organic Bronzing Studio apart from other spray tan salons in the area?

100% our proprietary solutions and techniques that ensure consistently great results every time. Our Bronzing Squad is truly invested in the client and their experience! For over 10 years we have been DMVs best kept secret.

10. What advice would you give to someone considering their first spray tan experience at your organic bronzing studio?

It’s not as scary as you think! We know everyone is nervous the first time, but from the time you arrive, it’s like hanging out with your best girlfriends. Everyone leaves feeling truly amazing both inside and out. We can’t wait to bronze you beautiful!

Ready for year round sun-kissed skin? Book your session here and embrace the glow you’ve always dreamed of! 

Organic Bronzing Studio has 2 convenient locations: one in Old Town Alexandria and their newest location at our MAB Artistry Studio in Tysons Corner!

The post Spray Tans 101 with Rachel Tyson appeared first on Makeup by Ana B.