©
COVER PHOTO BY MYRTLE ROY
EXPERT CONTRIBUTORS
LANDSCAPING - RESIDENTIAL/COMMERCIAL
Andre Passos | The Grounds Guys 888-929-8188 | groundguys.com
PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY, INFANT FEEDING DIFFICULTIES & LASER FRENECTOMY
Dr. Rishita Jaju | Smile Wonders 571-350-3663 | smilewonders.com
COLLEGE CONSULTING & TUTORING SERVICES
Oliver Lee | Principia Tutors & Consultants 703-424 2936 | www.principiatutors.com
Loved by Kids, Trusted by Parents
Gentle and Most Effective Laser Dentistry
Special Needs Dentistry
In-Of昀椀ce IV Sedations
Tongue-tie/Lip-tie/Buccal-ties Frenectomy Specialists
Dr. Rishita Jaju
Board Certi昀椀ed Pediatric Dentist
Dr. Anh Dang
Board Certi昀椀ed Pediatric Dentist
571-350-3663
11790 Sunrise Valley Dr #105 Reston, VA 20191 smilewonders.com
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PUBLICATION TEAM
Publisher: Gloria Fonseca
Publisher Assistant: Daniela Banegas
Account Executive: Crissy Moore Hall
Designer: Hannah Argall
Contributing Writer: Sofia Roman
Social Media Administrator: Andrea Simon
Photographer: Myrtle Roy
DEAR GREAT FALLS FRIENDS,
As December begins in this beautiful community, we’re treated to the stunning sights of winter—snow-dusted rocks, icy riverbanks, and the peaceful stillness of Great Falls. Winter is my favorite season, and while it may be one of the busiest, it’s a time filled with joy, family gatherings, and plans made for the season. With the holidays around the corner and kids soon out of school, it’s a perfect time to focus on creating memories. Whether it’s fishing, kayaking, horseback riding, rock climbing, or even picnicking, there are so many ways to enjoy the outdoors and embrace the season.
In this issue, we’re excited to feature the Hickey family on our cover, a family that truly embodies the spirit of Great Falls by making memories with their children and cherishing life’s small moments. As they put it, Great Falls really is a little piece of heaven!
And as we celebrate, let’s also remember the importance of supporting our local businesses. Fairfax County is home to many wonderful shops o ering unique gifts—from wine and candles to cozy mittens and more. Let’s keep our community strong by shopping local and supporting each other.
Wishing you all a wonderful holiday season filled with warmth, joy, and plenty of new memories.
Warmly,
A New Era of Luxury
The New Era of Luxury: Why Lab Diamonds are Redefining High-End Jewelry
By ALICIA B
In recent years, the luxury jewelry market has witnessed a significant shift in consumer preferences, with lab diamonds emerging as a highly sought-after alternative to traditional mined diamonds. This transformation is driven by evolving values, technological advancements and a growing desire for sustainability.
SUSTAINABILITY AND ECO-FRIENDLINESS
Lab diamonds, created through advanced technological processes, boast a significantly lower carbon footprint compared to traditional diamond mining. This eco-friendly aspect resonates deeply with environmentally conscious consumers seeking luxurious, responsible choices.
QUALITY AND AFFORDABILITY
Lab diamonds possess identical chemical, optical and physical properties as mined diamonds, ensuring uncompromising quality. Moreover, lab diamonds are 3040% less expensive, making luxury jewelry more accessible.
INNOVATION AND CUSTOMIZATION
Advances in technology enable precise control over lab diamond production, allowing for bespoke creations tailored to individual tastes. This innovation empowers consumers to design unique pieces.
CELEBRITY ENDORSEMENTS AND MAINSTREAM ACCEPTANCE
High-profile figures embracing lab diamonds has catapulted them into the spotlight. Brands like De Beers and Ti any & Co. now o er lab-grown diamond collections.
INVESTMENT POTENTIAL
As demand grows, lab diamonds are becoming viable investment opportunities due to their rarity and increasing popularity.
REDEFINING LUXURY
Lab diamonds embody modern luxury values: sustainability, innovation and accessibility. As consumer preferences continue evolving, the allure of lab diamonds will only intensify.
THE FUTURE OF LUXURY JEWELRY
The rise of lab diamonds heralds an era where luxury aligns with conscience and innovation. As technology advances, we can expect even more breathtaking creations, further solidifying lab diamonds' position in the world of high-end jewelry
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Getting to Know the Hickey’s Traditions, Memories, and the Next Generation
By SOFIA ROMAN | Photos by MYRTLE ROY
Living in the heart of Great Falls with a deep connection to the community, Brendan and Katie Hickey along with their children Rylie Kate (14), Blake (12), Bailey (6), and Sloane (3) bring a vibrant energy to Deerfield Pond Drive. This close-knit family shares their home with two adorable teacup Maltese dogs, Louis Bear and Coco, who are often seen exploring the neighborhood. Known for their active community involvement and warm family spirit, the Hickey's are beloved members of the Great Falls community.
Katie and Brendan first crossed paths on M Street in Washington, D.C., but their love story quickly brought them back to Great Falls. After a memorable New Year’s trip to New York City filled with snow, walks, and laughter, Brendan knew Katie was “the one.” He proposed at the breathtaking overlook at Great Falls Park, just as snow began to fall. The couple fondly recall childhood memories of enjoying ice cream at Thelma’s with their grandparents, a simple tradition that has become even more meaningful as they build new memories with their own children here in Great Falls.
Katie, a Great Falls native, attended local schools and went on to graduate from Clemson University. She now serves as a Senior Vice President of Residential Lending, while Brendan, with a BA in History from JMU and MBA is a partner in
a metal trading and chemical manufacturing company. The Hickey’s are heavily involved in the local sports scene, with Brendan coaching hockey, baseball, and basketball. He even finds time to play in an adult hockey league.
Their children, each with unique talents, are active in both academics and sports. Rylie Kate, an avid athlete, plays field hockey and lacrosse; Blake plays baseball and hockey and is known for his easy-going nature. Rylie, Blake, and Bailey share some activities; the three of them swim, play tennis, and golf at their country club, and little Sloane, a ectionately dubbed "the Little Boss," brings plenty of energy and enthusiasm as the family’s number one cheerleader. This family’s enthusiasm for community extends beyond the field. Katie has been a board member of the Celebrate Great Falls Foundation (CGF) for 14 years and is currently serving as its President. In 2015, she ran for Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s (LLS) Women of the Year and won after raising over $250,000. Their contributions have helped shape the community, making Great Falls an even more wonderful place to live.
Deerfield Pond holds a special place in the family’s heart, as Katie grew up in the neighborhood in a home built by her parents in 1986. One of her most cherished memories is going fishing in Deerfield
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Pond with her father. Remarkably, several neighbors from Katie’s childhood still live in the community.
Although moving back to the area wasn’t easy, the family’s persistence paid o . For over eight years, they reached out, knocking on doors and calling, until the lot became available. In 2020, they returned to the neighborhood, initially renting a home across the street while their dream house was under construction. Now, after a long wait, their kids can sled down the same neighbor’s hill that Katie once did as a child—and that neighbor still lives there today. Katie and Brendan now take their own children fishing in the same pond, creating new memories on land that holds so much history for them. Katie recalls hearing the same school bells and church bells from her childhood, now filling her children’s lives with a sense of tradition and familiarity.
The Hickey’s love the outdoors and often take hikes in nearby Riverbend and Great Falls Parks, places that hold sentimental value for the family. They also enjoy annual trips to St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands, where Katie once worked as first mate on boats, and to the picturesque mountains of Beaver Creek, Colorado, where Brendan lived for six years after college. These trips offer the family a chance to reconnect, unwind, and explore together.
A MESSAGE TO NEIGHBORS
As residents of Great Falls, the Hickey’s are deeply appreciative of
their vibrant and supportive neighborhood. “We feel truly blessed to live in such a beautiful area with such wonderful people. We’re grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the community, and we hope to continue making Great Falls an even better place to live for everyone.”
They also want to remind everyone of the importance of supporting local businesses. “Every chance we get, we buy local. These businesses are what make Great Falls special, and it’s up to us to help keep them thriving.”
With their dedication to family, community, and giving back, the Hickey’s embody the heart and soul of Great Falls.
We would like to thank Nadia Khan Estates for bringing you this month’s cover story.
Great Falls Mom Warms Hearts with Ponchos in Memory of Her Son
By MARIANNE BANE
The Cape Ivy organization began with a mother's love and a necessity. What started as a small way to warm up her son Gavin’s hospital stays has blossomed into a lasting legacy. Meg Smith designed the first fleece ponchos to ease her son’s chilly hospital visits, and now, in his memory, she donates these warm, IV-friendly ponchos to hospitalized children across the country.
As a parent of a child who spent years in and out of hospitals, Meg understands the challenge of staying warm while hooked up to IV and PICC lines. Conventional clothing, like robes, sweaters, and jackets, aren’t compatible with these lines. When Gavin was six, she came up with a creative solution: cozy fleece poncho capes he could slip over his head. The capes kept him snug in bed and eliminated those cold walks down hospital corridors. Gavin had a favorite design he carried with him on every hospital visit,
just in case he was admitted.
Sadly, Gavin lost his 12-year battle with a rare form of Common Variable Immune Deficiency (CVID) shortly before his 13th birthday. In his honor, Meg, along with her friend and neighbor Cindy Hargroves, began giving these fleece ponchos to hospitalized children. In 2020, the allvolunteer organization Cape Ivy became a nonprofit.
Despite a brief pivot to mask-making during the pandemic, Meg and Cindy resumed shipping ponchos to hospitals and have since donated over 20,000 ponchos nationwide. Cape Ivy continues to grow, warming children’s hearts and bodies across the U.S.
Remember that the ponchos make thoughtful gifts for anyone, from grandparents to friends in chemotherapy, or for cozy evenings at home. The online gift shop features options that support Cape Ivy's mission, and businesses, nonprofits, and foundations are invited to sponsor local DC-area hospitals.
This holiday season, there are several ways to support Cape Ivy’s mission for more information and to get your own poncho go to www.capeivy.org.
DIRECTIONS
• Preheat the oven to 225°F.
Meringue Holiday Wreath
CRANBERRY SAUCE
• One 10-ounce bag fresh or frozen cranberries, thawed and drained if frozen
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar, plus more to taste
• Juice of 1/2 lemon
• 4 cups fresh raspberries
• 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
• Fresh mint
• Line a baking sheet with parchment and trace a 12-inch circle, with a 9-inch circle inside, to form a wreath guide.
• In a clean mixer bowl, whisk egg whites, cream of tartar, and salt until foamy (about 1 minute). Gradually add sugar while beating until sti peaks form (about 13-15 minutes).
• Using the parchment template, drop meringue dollops along the 12-inch circle. Add an inner ring along the 9-inch circle, slightly overlapping the outer ring. Flatten slightly, leaving peaks.
• Bake the meringue for 2 hours until it’s dry and crisp. Let it cool.
• For cranberry sauce, simmer cranberries, sugar, and lemon juice for 10 minutes. Let cool, then fold in raspberries and pomegranate seeds.
• Before serving, spread whipped cream on the meringue, top with cranberry sauce, and sprinkle with mint leaves.
• Watch me create it in a Reel on my Instagram Page @FinleyBakes
WREATH
• 8 large egg whites, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1/2 teaspoon fine salt
• 3 1/2 cups confectioners' sugar
WHIPPED CREAM
• 1 cup heavy cream
By FINLEY SHEERS, Kid Baker
Porsche Tysons Corner Launches the New Macan and Great
Falls Living
By DANI BANEGAS
Photos by EKREM BASKAN – ECHO PHOTOGRAPHY
On the evening of October 26th, Porsche Tysons Corner transformed into an opulent masquerade wonderland, with shades of deep purple and striking blue setting the stage. Amidst the sparkle of champagne bubbles and the hum of excited guests, the dealership hosted one of the year’s most memorable events: the highly anticipated launch of the new Porsche Macan.
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In true Porsche style, the event was a showcase of luxury and sophistication. Daniel Rodriguez, General Manager of Porsche Tysons Corner, brought his flair for elegance and detail to the celebration, ensuring a night to remember. The atmosphere was further elevated by the presence of our very own publisher, Gloria Fonseca, whose radiant energy and keen eye for style have always set her apart.
Gloria seized the moment to share something truly special with the assembled guests—the very first look at Great Falls Living magazine. As attendees mingled, they had the exclusive opportunity to page through the inaugural issue, marveling at its vibrant portrayal of local life and community. Gloria’s introduction of the magazine was met with enthusiastic applause, and the evening took on a spirit of celebration not just for the new Macan but also for this exciting addition to Great Falls.
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Each snapshot from that night tells a piece of the story, capturing the magic of the launch, the camaraderie among guests, and the shared pride in our community. Flip through to see the evening's highlights and the unforgettable unveiling of Great Falls Living—a new voice for a timeless community.
America’s Rising Millionaire Class:
Electricians, HVAC Companies, and Home Service Entrepreneurs
In recent years, the landscape of wealth creation in America has shifted. Historically, new millionaires were primarily found in real estate, finance, healthcare, or tech. Today, a new class of entrepreneurs is emerging from an “ugly” labor-intensive sector: home services. Electricians, HVAC businesses, plumbing companies, and other essential service providers have seen unprecedented growth and demand, creating a path to prosperity and drawing substantial interest from the private equity (PE) sector. As this trend unfolds, it’s reshaping the home services industry and turning skilled tradespeople into America’s newest millionaires. The surge in demand for home services has been driven by several factors:
1. Aging Infrastructure: As homes and commercial buildings age, maintenance, repairs, and upgrades have become crucial.
2. Housing Boom and Renovation Trend: The postpandemic housing market has seen a surge in renovations and new constructions.
3. Skilled Labor Shortage: While demand for skilled trades continues to grow, there is a notable shortage of qualified professionals entering these fields. This scarcity has boosted wages, increased job security, and elevated the earnings potential for those who have built thriving businesses in these essential industries.
In conclusion, America’s new class of millionaires won’t necessarily be found on Wall Street or Silicon Valley! Instead,
we’ll continue to see variations in industries that put Inc. electricians, HVAC technicians, and skilled tradespeople at the forefront!
If you have a home services company and would like to know what your company is worth, set up a free consultation to talk to our expert business broker!
To connect with our partner Business Broker | M&A Advisor and discuss selling options, please visit: www.NovaBusinessInquiry.com
