Women Helping Women at Queen Bee Designs and Claire Schwab Interior Design Inc.

ALEXANDRIA, VA – Queen Bee Designs and Claire Schwab Interior Design Inc. recently joined forces in a pop-up shop at 825 S. Washington Street (formerly Williams-Sonoma) in Old Town, Alexandria. Proprietors Allison Priebe and Claire Schwab are excited for the venture and have lots of plans for the space.

“We want it to look like someone’s home,” explained Schwab, who has owned her own interior design firm for 30 years. Priebe agreed, noting the natural fit between Schwab’s home décor and her Queen Bee line of custom-made jewelry and accessories. “We want you to feel like you’re a queen both in your home and when you’re out and about.”

Sip ‘n Shop Event Gives Back to Women in Need

On January 22, the pair hosted an evening Sip ‘n Shop, a chance for local businesswomen to meet and connect, with the added opportunity to pay it forward with a clothing drive.

Priebe and Schwab are strong supporters of Suited for Change, an organization empowering women by increasing their employment and earning potential, and of Friends of Guest House, which supports women who were incarcerated in VA prisons for nonviolent offenses.

“I’ve always believed in women helping women,” says Priebe.

About 40 women mingled through the shop Wednesday evening, connecting with old friends and making new ones, sharing personal and professional updates, and marveling at the fabulous, comfortable space Priebe and Schwab have created.

Special guest and business owner MaryBeth Powers was invited to promote Teddy’s Turmeric Tamer, an organic dog treat made with all-natural ingredients, including turmeric, well known for its anti-inflammatory properties, and ginger, which has been shown to slow the growth of certain cancer cells.

Helping out Wednesday night was Susan Reynolds, a friend of Priebe’s since they were in 7^th grade together. Priebe has been in business for 17 years, and Reynolds has been with her from the beginning. “She taught me how to make jewelry, and I love to help her out. There’s a certain zen you attain in the process, and it’s a nice change from my regular job.”

From trying on jewelry to buying a new dress for an upcoming event, the women shopped as they mingled. Many were happy to see the shop also carries a line of Arbonne products for skin care as well as health and wellness.

Schwab was excited to see everyone come out. “These are strong businesswomen who support each other. There’s a great energy here, and we’ll be sure to host more of these.” Powers agreed. “It’s a happy and power hour – a win-win.”

The shop, located at 825 South Washington Street in Alexandria, is open Wednesday through Saturday, 11am-7pm; Sunday, 12-5. Monday and Tuesday by appointment.