COVER PHOTO BY MYRTLE ROY
EXPERT CONTRIBUTORS
© Best Version Media
LANDSCAPING - RESIDENTIAL/COMMERCIAL
Andre Passos | The Grounds Guys 571.290.2219 | 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
PEDIATRIC ORTHODONTICS
Gema Island | Island Children Dentistry & Orthodontics 703-790-1320 | www.islandchildrensdentistry.com
COSMETIC ENHANCEMENT
Emily Grubel | Great Falls Aesthetics (703) 495-3688 | greatfalls-aesthetics.com
CUSTOMIZED SKIN CARE
Sona Sut | Derma Care 571-606-3436 | www.dermacareva.com
BUSINESS BROKER
Erika Baez-Grimes | Transworld Business Advisor 804.750.3008 | www.NovaBusinessInquiry.com
LUXURY JEWELRY
Alicia Villars | Helvetia 703-401-9679 | www.Helvetiajewelry.com
REAL ESTATE AGENT
Puneet Bhagi | Ikon Realty 703-658-3999 | www.ikonrealtydmv.com
LIGHT MANAGEMENT & HOME COMFORT EXPERTS
Tsykhnenko Viktoriia & Marina Leonova | New Blackout (571) 245 5744 | www.newblackout.com
JULY IS ABOUT TURNING UP THE HEAT ON CREATIVITY, CONNECTION, AND COMMUNITY.
Let’s spark something amazing together!
BY ANDREA SIMON SOCIAL MEDIA ADMINISTRATOR
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PUBLICATION TEAM
Publisher: Gloria Fonseca
Publisher Assistant: Daniela Banegas
Designer: Hannah Argall
Contributing Writer: Sofia Roman
Social Media Administrator: Andrea Simon
Photographer: Myrtle Roy
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DEAR GREAT FALLS NEIGHBORS,
Nadiha Chaudri MBA, PMP 1765 Greensboro Station Place,Suite900, McLean,VA22102
703-655-8712 • Nadiha.Chaudri@gmail.com www.statementdesignconcepts.com
On the cover of this issue is someone incredibly dear to my heart—my longtime friend, Alicia Villars. We both grew up in the same city, and through the beautiful twists and turns of life, we found ourselves living just a few miles apart here in Virginia. Our journeys have remained intertwined, and so have our memories.
As I share Alicia’s story with you, I can’t help but also share a piece of my own. You see, Alicia’s father, Mr. Gerardo, was a truly special man. I remember him with great a ection—his warm smile, his quiet strength, and the deep love he had for his family. This cover story, and the incredible path Alicia has carved through Helvetia Jewelry, is more than just a celebration of her success; it’s a tribute to the man who inspired it all.
Through the art of jewelry, Alicia honors her roots and carries her father’s legacy with grace, purpose, and heart. This article is her love letter to him—and I hope you’ll feel the same emotion I did while reading it.
As summer unfolds in Great Falls, I invite you to slow down, connect with those you love, and make space for meaningful moments. That’s what this magazine is about—celebrating community, honoring stories, and finding beauty in the ties that bind us.
Warmly,
ALICIA VILLARS AND THE VISION BEHIND HELVETIA JEWELRY
By SOFIA ROMAN
© Best Version Media
For Alicia Villars, the sparkle of fine jewelry isn’t just about the brilliance of a stone—it’s about the meaning it holds, the story it tells, and the lives it touches. As the cofounder and CEO of Helvetia Jewelry, a bespoke fine jewelry house specializing in custom pieces made with lab-grown diamonds, Alicia is redefining what modern luxury looks—and feels—like.
Her journey doesn’t begin in a boardroom or a boutique, but in the quiet corners of her family’s jewelry store in Honduras, where as a child she watched her grandfather mend watches with steady hands, her father weigh gold on an antique scale, and her mother lovingly string pearls. “Jewelry has always been part of my life,” she reflects. “It’s like a second nature.”
Today, Alicia lives in Great Falls Estates, a neighborhood she deeply cherishes—yet her heart extends to every corner of the Great Falls community. Whether she’s supporting local events, strolling through the Saturday farmers market, or connecting with neighbors, she draws constant inspiration from the people and spirit that define the place she calls home. She also holds a special admiration for the Women’s Club of Great Falls and finds great joy in attending their events and engaging with their vibrant network of women.
Among her most treasured memories are the mornings spent with her father at Katie’s Cars & Co ee Club—a tradition that brought them joy, connection, and laughter. “He loved it,” Alicia shares with a smile. “Those were our moments, just the two of us.” It’s that same sense of connection and love that Alicia now pours into every Helvetia creation.
We would like to thank Nadia Khan Estates for bringing you this month’s cover story.
With a proven track record of over $100 million in career sales volume, I am your trusted advisor in the world of luxury real estate. Recognized by distinguished publications like Arlington Magazine, I combine local expertise with global reach through a network of 90,000 agents in 24 international markets, ensuring your property receives unparalleled exposure.
Your home will be featured on over 80 premier platforms, including Mansion Global, The Wall Street Journal, Barron's, and Luxury Estate, while my cutting-edge marketing—complete with professional HDR photography, cinematic videography, and targeted online advertising ensures your home is seen by thousands of qualified buyers across digital and social platforms.
For those seeking their next home or investment, I specialize in sourcing off-market properties and negotiating with precision.
Achieve your goals with confidence and ease— curated by Nadia Khan.
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A Childhood Dream, Realized
Even as a young girl, Alicia knew she wanted to stay in the jewelry world. She dreamed big with a childhood friend, now her busine partner, promising each other that they'd one day create something beautiful together. Decades later, in di erent stages of finally living in the same city, that promise has come alive in Helvetia—a dream reborn as a thriving reality.
But Alicia brings more than sentiment to the table. With a degree in Industrial Engineering, she approaches her business with precision and purpose. “Engineering taught me how to optimize processes,” she says, “but jewelry adds creativity and emotional connection. That combination—that’s my superpower.” Her business partner, meanwhile, brings extensive experience in luxur branding and marketing, helping to position Helvetia as a premier jewelry brand.
It was Alicia’s father who helped shape her philosophy around fine jewelry. To him, a ring wasn’t just a product—it marked a new beginning. Earrings celebrated milestones. A bracelet could hold generations of love. “He taught me that jewelry’s value isn’t in the price—it’s in the story,” she says. It’s this same philosophy that anchors Helvetia today: craftsmanship, quality, and personal connection.
The name Helvetia is more than elegant branding—it’s a tribute. Alicia’s grandfather, a proud Swiss man, originally named his jewelry store Helvetia in homage to his heritage. By reviving the name, Alicia honors her roots while infusing the brand with fresh vision.
“We’re creating timeless pieces for people who demand beauty with purpose,” she explains. “Our lab-grown diamonds meet the highest standards—without compromising on ethics, quality, or price.”
Redefining Luxury with Lab-Grown Brilliance
Helvetia isn’t just selling diamonds. It’s reimagining luxury. “Lab-grown diamonds are identical in brilliance and composition to mined ones,” Alicia says, “but they’re more sustainable, ethically sourced, and often more beautiful. For me, it was a no-brainer.”
Education is a cornerstone of the Helvetia experience. Alicia believes informed clients become empowered storytellers. “We love helping clients understand how lab diamonds are grown—how they’re real, radiant, and responsible.”
What sets Helvetia apart in a saturated market is its personalized, concierge-style approach. Each client receives oneon-one design consultation, tailored to their taste, story, and style. “It’s not just about selling a piece,” Alicia says. “It’s about co-creating something that speaks to their heart.”
From birthstone-studded necklaces representing family members, to heirloom pieces reimagined into daily wear charms, Alicia pours meaning into every detail. “Jewelry should be worn, not tucked away,” she insists. “If a piece has magic, it should be felt—every day.”
Building a Brand with Soul
Alicia herself is elegance embodied. Her signature look? A tailored suit, high heels, and—of course—her diamond studs. “I feel like I can rule the world in those,” she laughs. Her favorite pieces to design are custom creations, where the process is as meaningful as the final result. “When I see the sparkle in a client’s eyes, that’s when I know we’ve nailed it.”
As the spouse of a former diplomat in Washington, D.C., Alicia gracefully balances the global and the deeply personal. Her family—her “heartbeat,” as she calls them—has been her greatest support. “They’ve given me the space to dream and the strength to pursue it,” she says. “Even when I doubt myself, they believe in me. I stand on the shoulders of those who came before me—and those beside me.”
Looking ahead, Alicia envisions Helvetia as a benchmark for modern luxury: growing thoughtfully without ever losing the intimacy and integrity that define the brand. “We want to grow, but we won’t lose our soul,” she says. “Our mission is to redefine luxury—sophisticated, sustainable, and full of heart.” Alicia Villars is a woman who not only loves what she does—she radiates it. And through Helvetia, she invites the world to Shine, one diamond at a time.
First sign — Jewelry established in 1951.
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House of Alkara
THE FASHION THREAD Art You Can Wear
BY ALEENA DHAR Style guide and Founder of House of Alkara
At House of Alkara, fashion becomes a canvas for storytelling. Every piece—from hand-painted summer dresses, silk kaftans dresses,and silk jackets to intricately designed stoles and jewelry—is a fusion of art, craftsmanship, and timeless design.
Rooted in India’s rich textile heritage, our collections reimagine traditional techniques through a contemporary lens. We work with brocade silk, ikat, burnt velvet, and handwoven silks—treating each fabric as a work of art. Everything is made from scratch at our inhouse studio, giving each creation its own identity.
Located right here in Great Falls, our studio transforms ideas into wearable expressions. We welcome visitors by appointment to experience the textures, try on pieces, and hear the stories behind each design.
Our handcrafted jewelry reflects the same philosophy—designed in sterling silver or gold-polished finishes, accented with real gemstones and artistic enamel work. Every detail is intentional. Sustainability is central to our values. We use recycled materials for packaging and follow low-waste, quality-driven production practices that honor craftsmanship and longevity. House of Alkara is more than a brand—it’s a space where fashion,
Elevate Your Everyday
Crafted by Artisans, Inspired by You! Timeless Jewelry for the Modern Muse
Discover handcrafted pieces designed to celebrate your individuality. From statement earrings to delicate rings, every creation tells a story of bold elegance and re昀椀ned beauty.
Ethically Made ⁜ Unapologetically You
Explore the collection at houseofalkara.com
WThe Art of Layering Transforming Your Home Through Drapery Design
Flexible Light Control
Sheers gently di use natural sunlight, creating a warm glow while reducing glare. Heavier drapes provide privacy and darkness when needed—ideal for movie nights, restful sleep, or creating a cozy retreat.
Personal Expression
Draperies are an extension of your style. Layering gives you the freedom to express your personality through color, texture, and pattern combinations that make your home truly yours.
TECHNIQUES & TIPS FROM THE PROS
At New BlackOut, here are a few of our favorite techniques to help our clients master the art of layering:
1. Double Rod Installation
The classic approach: Install a back rod for sheers and a front rod for heavier drapes. This setup lets you enjoy soft, filtered light during the day and complete coverage at night.
2. Texture Play
Contrast is key. Pair crisp linen sheers with plush velvet for a sophisticated vibe, or mix embroidered cotton with structured linen for a more relaxed, timeless aesthetic.
3. Tone-on-Tone Styling
TSYKHNENKO VIKTORIIA AND MARINA LEONOVA CO-FOUNDERS OF NEW BLACKOUT
hen it comes to transforming a room, few design elements make as powerful an impact as window treatments. At New BlackOut, we view draperies not just as functional additions but as essential design statements. Among the most e ective (yet often underestimated) techniques in window styling is layering: a creative and practical way to elevate your space, reflect your personality, and manage light with elegance.
WHAT IS LAYERING?
Layering draperies involves combining multiple types of window treatments—typically lightweight sheers with heavier curtains or panels—on the same window. Much like an artist uses di erent brushstrokes to bring a canvas to life, layering allows you to blend textures, colors, and patterns to create depth, warmth, and sophistication. It’s more than just decorating—it’s designing with intention.
WHY LAYERING WORKS
Visual Depth & Dimension
Layered window treatments instantly add richness and complexity. The interplay between sheer and opaque fabrics brings movement and softness to a space, making it feel more dynamic and inviting.
Prefer a minimalist, serene look? Layer fabrics in the same color family—such as ivory sheers with taupe drapes—for a calming, cohesive space.
4. Pattern Pairing
Bring personality to a room by layering soft, subtle sheers with bold patterned panels. Just ensure the color palettes complement one another to maintain visual harmony.
5. Varying Lengths
Let your outer drapes pool slightly on the floor for elegance, while keeping the sheer layer neat above the sill. This slight di erence in length adds dimension and charm.
REAL-LIFE INSPIRATIONS
The Cozy Living Room
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Think soft linen base drapes with sheer whites layered behind—perfect for letting afternoon light in while still feeling enveloped in comfort.
The Romantic Bedroom
Picture dark velvet curtains paired with delicate lace sheers. In the morning, the sunlight filters in with a golden glow; at night, you have complete privacy and ambiance.
The Chic Home O ice
A bold geometric print layered over a sheer neutral creates a stylish and functional work-from-home solution. You get privacy for calls and natural light to keep your space energized.
EXPERIENCE LUXURY—EFFORTLESSLY
All of New BlackOut’s draperies and shades are available with motorized options, allowing you to adjust lighting and privacy with the touch of a button. And to ensure the highest quality, we hand-select fabrics from Italy, Spain, and Turkey, o ering everything from breezy sheers to opulent velvets.
Our team of design consultants is ready to help you choose the perfect combinations for your lifestyle and space. Whether you’re looking to refresh a single room or revamp your entire home, we’re here to guide you through the process.
LET’S DESIGN TOGETHER
Visit our showroom or schedule a home consultation and discover how the art of layering can redefine the way you see—and feel—your home. Because at New BlackOut, your windows deserve to be dressed in their finest.
Modern, sleek and made-tomeasure for your space. Discover the perfect balance of style & functionality.
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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
The Silent Killer of Business Value The Key Person Dependency
WBY ERIKA BAEZ-GRIMES CERTIFIED MERGERS & ACQUISITIONS ADVISOR
hen business owners think about building value in their company, they often focus on increasing revenue, improving margins, adding services, or acquiring more customers. While these are essential, there’s a quieter, often unspoken factor that can dramatically reduce a company’s worth in the eyes of a buyer—key person dependency.
Whether you're planning to exit in the next year or the next decade, this one issue can derail your best-laid plans and leave serious money on the table.
DON’T BE THE STAR OF THE SHOW
WHAT IS KEY PERSON DEPENDENCY, REALLY?
Key person dependency occurs when a business relies too heavily on one individual—often the owner, but sometimes a top salesperson, the operations manager, a lead technician, or a long-time employee. These individuals hold so much institutional knowledge or client goodwill that the business would struggle—or even fail—without them. Most often, that key person is the founder or owner. They're the rainmaker, the problem-solver, the strategic brain, and the brand all rolled into one. While that might be perceived as “strong” for an operator, it translates into a weak investment.
WHY MOST BUYERS WALK AWAY FROM KEY PERSON BUSINESSES
Buyers aren't just purchasing your past success—they're buying your business’s ability to thrive without you. If a prospective buyer believes that your departure will cause customers to leave, sales to decline, or chaos to ensue, they’ll either lower their o er dramatically or walk away entirely.
In due diligence, buyers ask questions like
• “Who handles your top 10 clients?”
• “What happens if this person leaves?”
• “Can the company maintain performance during a six-month transition?”
“Are processes well documented?”
If the answers hinge on one or two individuals, red flags go up.
The Tangible Impact on Valuation: Businesses with high dependency often experience
• Lower EBITDA multiples—because future earnings are uncertain.
• Contingent deal structures—such as earn-outs or seller financing—to mitigate risk.
• Prolonged transition demands—where the owner must stay longer than anticipated.
• Narrower buyer pools—especially for first-time or strategic buyers who want turnkey operations.
How to Diagnose and Reduce Dependency: Good news, key person dependency is both common and fixable—but it requires proactive planning. Start by asking yourself the following:
• If I stepped away for 90 days, could the business run smoothly without me?
• Are client relationships centralized around me or my team?
• Do I make most of the key decisions, or are there empowered leaders?
Once diagnosed, the value gaps can be addressed. Remember, A Resilient Business Is a Valuable Business and reducing key person risk doesn’t just position you for a better exit—it strengthens your business today. You’ll reduce stress, improve delegation, and, in most cases, build something that can weather personal emergencies, employee departures, or growth surges.
Most importantly, you’ll make your business attractive and investable—two key ingredients for a successful sale.
If you’d like to discuss the pathway to untangle the KEY PERSON visit www.NovaBusinessInquiry.com or contact Erika Baez-Grimes, Certified Mergers & Acquisitions Advisor at Erika@ErikatheBroker.Com or 804.750.3008
Building a Lifetime of Healthy Smiles WHY BABY TEETH MATTER
BY GEMA ISLAND DDS, BOARD CERTIFIED PEDIATRIC DENTIST
As parents, we celebrate every milestone in our child’s life—from their first steps to their first words. But one milestone that often gets overlooked is the appearance of their first tooth. It may be tiny, but it’s a big deal!
As a Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist and a mother myself, I often hear the question: “Why should we worry about baby teeth? Aren’t they just going to fall out anyway?” It’s a great question—and one I’m always happy to answer. The truth is, caring for baby teeth is one of the most important steps in setting the foundation for a lifetime of good oral health.
BABY TEETH ARE NOT JUST TEMPORARY
While it’s true that baby teeth eventually fall out, they serve several essential roles during a child’s development. Here’s why they matter:
1. They Set the Stage for Adult Teeth
Baby teeth act as natural placeholders for permanent teeth. If a baby tooth is lost too early due to decay or injury, it can lead to shifting or crowding, making future orthodontic treatment more likely.
2. They Support Healthy Speech and Chewing
Teeth play a key role in helping children speak clearly and chew properly. Losing teeth too soon can make it harder for children to form words correctly or eat a balanced diet.
3.
They A ect Confidence and Social Development
A healthy smile helps children feel confident in social settings. Dental pain, discoloration, or missing teeth can a ect their selfesteem and willingness to participate in school or activities.
EARLY HABITS CREATE LIFELONG HEALTH
Caring for baby teeth also teaches children that dental hygiene is important. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental visits become habits that last a lifetime—and children who learn these habits early are more likely to grow up with healthier smiles.
I recommend scheduling your child’s first dental visit by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth coming in. These early visits are more than just a checkup—they’re an opportunity for parents to get personalized guidance on everything from brushing techniques to nutrition and pacifier use.
PREVENTION IS ALWAYS BETTER THAN TREATMENT
By taking care of baby teeth, we can prevent tooth decay, infections, and discomfort—avoiding emergency visits or more complex procedures later on. At Island Children’s Dentistry, we create a fun, welcoming environment where kids feel comfortable and parents feel supported every step of the way.
To schedule your child’s first visit, or learn more about our pediatric dental services, visit IslandChildrensDentistry.com or stop by our o ice. We’d love to meet your little one!
We invite you to visit our new o ice at Tysons Corner, where Island Children’s Dentistry and Orthodontist proudly stands as the premier pediatric dental practice in the region. Our clinic is equipped with cutting-edge technology designed specifically for children’s dental needs, ensuring a comfortable and e ective experience.
Led by our Board-Certified pediatric dentist, Dr. Gema Island, our dedicated team is committed to providing exceptional dental care that emphasizes a functional approach to facial development. At Island Children’s Dentistry, we strive to deliver the highest standard of care for your child’s oral health, making us the trusted choice for families in Northern Virginia.
