November 2026
The 2027 BUDGET Issue... As we approach the end of the year, your Board and Community Manager are fine tuning the 2027 Budget. The full version of this draft budget is available on the Willowsford HOA Document Center via this LINK. While the majority of community assessments are from the "Base" fees, there are a few others that are applicable to select residents who are responsible for various unique features of the community. These assessments are applicable to Pipestems, Loop Lanes, Village Greens, and Courtyard homes. A breakdown of the Base Assessments, and summarized change in the other aforementioned assessments, can be found on the next two
pages. The Willowsford Conservancy also published a draft budget that is available to those subscribed to their website available on their Document Center via this LINK. As a quick reference, the annual amount Conservancy's Annual Assessment is proposed to be $671.88, an annual increase of $23.93, or 3.69%. The Conservancy Board is scheduled to approve their budget on November 5th and the HOA Board is scheduled to approve both the HOA and Conservancy budgets on November 17th. Both meetings are open to the residents of Willowsford to attend and information regarding the meeting location
and time can be found on their respective website calendars and page three of this newsletter. Lastly, now is a great time to check your account to ensure it is current. We have a handful of households with a $50 balance. These are from late paid accounts and must be reconciled to bring your accounts current for the new year! Assessments are due on the first day of each quarter (January, April, July, October). View account status at www.sfmcinc.com. Transaction fees may apply and are subject to change. Please contact Jodi Summers with SFMC, Inc. at (703) 392-6006 x 234 or email jsummers@sfmcinc.com for further assistance.
HOA Board Meeting • Budget Approval • Tuesday, November 17th 6 PM - 8:30 PM Sycamore House & Zoom
The Board of Directors meets regularly to discuss the governing of the community, finances, common areas, and more. Join Zoom Meeting CLICK HERE Meeting ID: 883 7726 2356 Passcode: 931491
Conservancy Board Meeting Thursday, November 5th | 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM | Sycamore House
The Conservancy Trustees will meet to finalize the 2027 budget and discuss other items. Join Zoom Meeting CLICK HERE Meeting ID: 892 0965 5968 Passcode: 874616
Manager’s Message Suzie Popielec, CMCA, AMS, PCAM Onsite Community Manager
By the time you receive this issue of Willowsford Life, we will be squarely in the middle of the holiday season. With Halloween behind us, kids settled into their school routines, football games on Friday nights, and Thanksgiving on the horizon, this is a season of slow, sunny days and crisp, clear nights. I love this part of the year, when the summertime scurry gives way to sun-dappled quietude. Of course, we are still quite busy as an HOA team, and I do have a few reminders for you. The deadline to drop off non-perishables for the Dulles South Food Pantry is November 4th at either clubhouse location. Let’s see if we can beat our previous collection of nearly 400 pounds of food! The November Board meeting will be held on the 17th here at Sycamore House and via Zoom. Among other things, your Board of Directors will be finalizing the 2027 budget, so please do join us for that. November is a time for giving thanks, and of course, we have much to be thankful for. As I approach one year onsite, I want to take a moment to offer a sincere thank you to our hard-working team, who serves the community with grace, compassion, and skill. Thank you for the kind welcome, the consistent effort, and the ongoing commitment to the success of Willowsford. During this season of gratitude, I would be remiss if I did not also thank our Volunteer Leaders…your Board of Directors, committee members, event volunteers, and everyone who makes a difference in so many ways. We see and appreciate all of your ongoing leadership, dedication to Willowsford, and willingness to give of your time and talents. Thank you! Finally, don’t forget to put Saturday, December 12th on your calendar for Winter Wonderland. Our team is working hard to create yet another magical and memorable moment for you and your family, and it is sure to be a wonderful time! That’s all for now. Have a fantastic holiday season and…I am thankful for YOU!
Suzie.
FAREWELL MATT! It is with gratitude that we wish our longtime Operations Manager, Matt Murphy, a fond farewell as he steps away from Willowsford to take an opportunity with a boutique construction firm. With close to ten years as a member of the Ops team, Matt has been here onsite for the evoluation of the community from its early Founder days, through construction, to the current day. He has been an invaluable asset to our team and to Willowsford. We wish him “Fair winds and following seas” as he heads into the next chapter of his professional career, and his last day will be November 17th. Best wishes, Matt!
WELCOME BRETT! As Matt steps away, we are happy to introduce Brett Unger as the new Operations Manager! Brett joined the team a little over a month ago, and has been working alongside Matt to garner valuable institutional knowledge before Matt’s departure. With thirteen years in the industry, Brett also brings eight years of HOA operations and facilities experience with him from the neighboring Brambleton team, handling plumbing, electrical, HVAC, pools, carpentry, flooring, mechanical diagnostics, etc. He is also fluent in large community event setups, compliance, and large-scale resident dynamics. Please give him a warm, Willowsford welcome when you see him! Welcome aboard, Brett!
Thanksgiving Food Drive DEADLINE TO DONATE: November 4th Sycamore House & The Lodge
This Thanksgiving season, Willowsford HOA is partnering with the Dulles South Food Pantry to provide a little extra comfort and care to local families. Residents are invited to participate in our Thanksgiving Food Drive by donating much-needed food items at either of the HOA clubhouses during regular business hours. Alternatively, you can donate to support food access through the Conservancy by going HERE. Every donation makes a difference, and together, we can help make the season a little brighter for our neighbors in need!
SHOPPING LIST Instant Potatoes Turkey Gravy Mix Chicken Broth Pumpkin Pie Crust Mix Cornbread Mix Fried Onion Topper Cream of Mushroom Soup Stuffing Cranberry Sauce Canned Vegetables
2027 Willowsford Calendars! Enjoy your very own annual Willowsford calendar, filled with beautiful photography featuring life at Willowsford. Perfect for your office wall, your kitchen planning station, and gift-giving!
Make your list and check it twice! $15 each or two for $25 We are eagerly awaiting to receive the shipment of these exclusive editions! Keep an eye out in the Weekly and your email for ordering information.
Honoring Those Who Served and Their Families
November 11th
• Thank You for Your Service & Sacrifice
Volunteer Appreciation Dinner Wednesday, November 18th 6 PM - 8 PM Sycamore House If you haven’t already, please RSVP via the
exclusive
invite
sent
through
Paperless Post. Thank you in advance for all your hard work and dedication. We look forward to celebrating you!
Comprehensive Inspections In November, the Community Standards Team will be inspecting the following streets.
Rocky Boulder Court Black Willow Drive Cloverwood Drive Nut Hatch Court Comprehensive inspections help maintain our community's standards and ensure properties are well cared for, fostering pride and shared responsibility. Our team appreciates your understanding as we work to preserve property values and maintain a beautiful community aesthetic. If you have questions about the inspection process, contact Marlith at DRC@willowsford.com.
Design Review Committee Meeting Application Deadline November 4th DRC Meeting November 18th Click HERE for more information about the Design Review Process,
Covenants Committee Meeting Wednesday, November 4th • 9:00 a.m.- Noon • Sycamore House
Permanent Holiday Lighting: What Residents Need to Know As the holiday season approaches, many residents are considering permanent lighting that can remain installed year-round and be used to celebrate different holidays. While these systems offer convenience and flexibility, DRC approval is required before installing any permanent holiday lighting. Please keep in mind that not all commercially available permanent lighting systems meet community standards or will be approved. To be considered for approval, bulbs must be barely visible and installed beneath the gutters or along the fascia of the home. Installation components and cords must be concealed within a high-quality casing or track that matches the color of the structure. The DRC may request documentation showing the proposed installation method. Temporary holiday and seasonal decorations do not require DRC approval, but they must represent the holiday being celebrated and must be removed within 21 days after the holiday. Before purchasing or installing permanent lighting, please contact us at DRC@willowsfordlife.com to confirm the requirements. Applying in advance can help prevent the inconvenience and expense of installing a system that does not meet community standards. Wishing everyone a bright and joyful holiday season!
🎄✨
Resident Advisory Committee Meeting Monday, November 23rd and Wednesday, December 16th 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM • Sycamore House & Zoom
The RAC meets regularly to provide input and recommendations to the Board on various matters relating to the Residents at the Board’s request, and such other items as may be requested by the Board.
Join November Zoom Meeting CLICK HERE Meeting ID: 813 9831 8491 Passcode: 819053
Daylight Savings Time Ends November 1st
November 8th
November 26th
Lifestyle
AutumnFest Recap & Survey
First Friday Happy Hour
What a day! Thank you to everyone who joined us for AutumnFest, we hope you had a wonderful time and created some lasting fall memories! From delicious caramel apples to creatively painted mini pumpkins, silly photoshoots and meals shared on the lawn, this year’s fall festival was a tremendous success. A special thank you to our volunteers, sponsors, vendors, and staff. Your support helped make this wonderful afternoon possible. As we plan future community events, we'd love to hear from you! Your feedback helps us understand what you enjoyed most and where we can make improvements. Whether you attended for the entire afternoon or stopped by for just a portion of the festivities, your input is valuable. Click HERE to participate in the survey.
Friday, November 6th 5:30 PM-7:30 PM Sycamore House Kick off the weekend of November 6th with neighborly fun, complimentary bites and live music! Sample a seasonal cocktail from Willowsford Kitchen (limit 1 per person) or treat yourself to beer on tap, first-come, first-served until it's gone. Valid ID required to consume alcohol and will be checked prior to serving. Please bring your own snacks or picnic basket, if you choose; BYOB is permitted. The event is free to residents and registration is not required.
Entertainment: Guitar/Vocalist Andy Signature Cocktail: Turkey Punch Beer on Tap: TBD
Holiday Pie Workshop
Upcoming Lifestyle Events First Friday Happy Hour Friday, December 4th 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM The Lodge Cozy Winter Cocktails (21+) Saturday, December 5th 6 PM - 9 PM | Sycamore House
Saturday, November 21st 1 PM – 4 PM at Sycamore House Tis the season for pie! We will work through tips and tricks to making successful pies every time. Together, we will make pie crust, as well as
Adult Gingerbread Workshop Saturday, December 12th 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM | The Lodge Holiday Cheer Thursday, December 17th 6 PM - 8 PM | Sycamore House Winter Treats Pickup Monday, December 21st 4 PM - 6 PM | Sycamore House
practice making fruit pies, free-form galettes and two-crust pies. The pies made in class will be sampled and each student will go home with the pie dough they make in class to have a headstart on their holiday baking. Cost is $85/person, ages 12+ for a lovely family-friendly afternoon. View Menu & Register HERE
Access the Willowsford Calendar HERE
Thanksgiving Sides & Pies Pickup Wednesday, November 25th from 4 PM – 6 PM at Sycamore House. Order Deadline: November 22nd Thanksgiving Sides & Pies by Willowsford Kitchen are back and available now for pre-order! Let us help make your holiday prep a breeze with delicious, fully cooked Thanksgiving favorites. Click HERE for the full menu which features a few new options you won’t want to miss. The deadline to order is November 22nd - for the best user experience, please use the desktop version of CivicRec to place your order: willowsfordlife.com
Menu options include: Maple Ginger Pumpkin Pie Classic Turkey Gravy Bacon Braised Collard Greens Cranberry Brie Bites and More!
Fitness & Enrichment Holiday Group Fitness REGISTRATION CLOSES NOVEMBER 1ST! The holidays are coming, but your health doesn't have to take a back seat! Join us for the Silver Strength Holiday Challenge or the Strong through the Season Challenge: 12 classes designed to build strength, keep you consistent, and leave you energized and ready for whatever the season brings. The challenge includes five strengthfocused sessions plus one deep stretch-and-mobility session to keep you moving well. You don't need to wait until January to prioritize your health. Build strength, make time for recovery, and head into the new year with momentum already on your side.
Silver Strong Holiday Challenge 12 twice-weekly classes running from Nov. 3rd - Dec. 17th 11:15 PM-11:45 PM | The Lodge Multipurpose Room Tuesdays and Thursdays. Ages 18+/$130 per person Register HERE! Strong Through the Season 12 twice-weekly classes running from Nov. 3rd - Dec. 17th 12 PM-12:30 PM | The Lodge Multipurpose Room Ages 18+/$130 per person Register HERE!
Fitness Classes
No holiday guilt. No all-or-nothing mindset. Just a dozen opportunities to show up for yourself.
The next set of fitness classes starts on November 3rd!
Enjoy a "Give Strength, Get Strength" giveaway in December - let's finish 2026 STRONG!
Click HERE to learn more.
Willowsford Fit Our state-of-the-art Fitness Center is located inside The Lodge in The Greens. Hours of Operation Daily: 4 AM - 11 PM
Clubs Interested in Joining?
Book Club
Thursday, November 5th 6:30 PM - 9 PM , The Lodge Willowsford Illustrious Novel Enthusiasts (WINE) is a book club open to all. We read, we meet, we talk, we drink wine, we enjoy ourselves! WINE usually meets the first Thursday of the month at The Lodge. Find us on Facebook for details on the next meeting and book selection.
Willowsford Wheels
Saturday, November 7th 8 AM - 10 AM The Lodge Parking Lot Willowsford Wheels is perfect for car enthusiasts! Showcase your car at one of our Cars & Coffee events or just come to chat with neighbors and check out an array of classic, vintage, exotic, and muscle cars. Find us on Facebook HERE!
Joining a Willowsford Community Club is a great way to meet neighbors, build friendships, and become more connected to the community.
Social Club
Thursday, November 14th 6 PM - 9 PM, The Lodge Please join us for a Thanksgiving celebration! We will supply the turkey; please bring an appetizer, side dish, or dessert to share. Bring your own beverages; water will be provided. We hope to see you there! To learn more about the Social Club, find us on Facebook HERE!
Whether you're interested in a hobby, fitness, social gatherings, cultural activities, or recreation, our resident-led clubs bring people together through shared interests.
Mahjong Club
Explore the current club offerings, try something new, and discover new friendships along the way!
A social club to connect and join together through the American Mahjong game. This club is for all skill levels, and we will play by the National Mahjong League rules. Meetups will offer a casual, open-play environment. Please bring your own 2026 card. Find us on Facebook HERE!
Find us on Facebook HERE!
Thursday, November 12th 6 PM - 9 PM, The Lodge
Conservancy News Help Protect Willowsford’s Natural Areas Fridays, through November 20th 12:30 PM - 2 PM | Various Locations Join the Willowsford Conservancy’s Invasive Plant Removal Work Sessions and help protect our natural areas by removing invasive plants and supporting habitat restoration. In partnership with the Loudoun Invasive Removal Alliance (LIRA), volunteers will learn to identify and manage invasive species, including Tree of Heaven, Autumn Olive, and other vines and plants.
SAVE YOUR PUMPKINS AND GOURDS! Uncarved pumpkins and gourds are great treats for our farm animals and hens! Pickup locations will be established at the
No experience is necessary, and all tools and instruction are provided. Herbicide use is optional. Volunteer sessions take place on Fridays through November 20 at various locations throughout Willowsford. Join us for one session or all three!
More details to follow
Click HERE to learn more and register!
in the farm newsletter!
Boathouse and in The Grange.
Holiday Farm Stand Thursday, November 19th | 4 PM - 7 PM The Boathouse
Get into the holiday spirit with a special Holiday Farm Stand hosted by the Conservancy the week before Thanksgiving! Enjoy extended hours, festive seasonal charm, and a curated selection of winter produce, local goods, and specialty items to help make your Thanksgiving table extra special. Stop by to shop for the season, soak in the beautiful lakeside scenery, and enjoy a little holiday cheer!
Community Advisory Committee Meeting Monday, November 23rd 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM
ZOOM LINK: HERE Meeting ID: 811 1976 9136 Passcode: 397247
The CAC will meet on Monday, November 23 from 5:30-7:30 PM. The next priority for the CAC will be working with the Board and staff on the Strategic Plan Update. If you are interested in serving on a focus group or providing any feedback, please use this form. The location and agenda will be available in the Document Center Here.
Holiday Office Hours The HOA Offices will be closed on November 26th and 27th to allow the Staff to enjoy the holidays with their families. The Lodge Fitness Center is accessible via fob from 4:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. daily.
Happy Thanksgiving from the Willowsford Team!
Resources for the Willowsford Community HOA Questions & Concerns
Assessments & Accounts SFMC, Inc.
HOA@willowsford.com
(703)-392-6006
Covenants & Design Review
American Disposal Services
DRC@willowsford.com
(703) 368-0500
Events & Amenity Rentals lifestyle@willowsford.com
Trash - Tuesdays & Fridays Recycling - Fridays Yard Waste - March 1st - December 24th
Willowsford Conservancy
VDOT Road Safety
info@willowsfordconservancy.org
https://my.vdot.virginia.gov/ (703) 737-2000
SYCAMORE HOUSE
CLUBHOUSE HOURS
THE LODGE
23506 Founders Drive Ashburn, VA 20148 Phone: 571-297-2586
Monday - Friday: 9 AM - 5 PM Saturday: 11 AM - 6 PM Sunday: 11 AM - 4 PM
41085 Willowsford Lane Aldie, VA 20105 Phone: 571-297-2586