Blog Design

Exclusive rooftop event for interior designers to connect, discover our trade program, and explore design-driven window treatments. Join us for *Framing the View: Designer Trade Evening*, an exclusive rooftop event created for interior designers in the DMV area. This evening is designed to bring together members of the local design community to connect, collaborate, and explore window treatments through a designer-focused perspective. During the event, attendees will learn about Made in the Shade Washington, DC’s **Designer Trade Partnership Program**, which provides interior designers with a centralized resource for window treatment vendors, technical guidance, and streamlined project execution. Our team works closely with designers, architects, and contractors to support projects from concept through installation. Guests can expect a relaxed rooftop setting, opportunities to network with fellow design professionals, and an introduction to our approach to collaborative partnerships within the design industry. Light refreshments will be provided, and attendees will receive a **complimentary designer gift bag**. Space is limited to maintain an intimate networking experience for designers in the DMV design community.

Meet at Smithsonian metro at 7am, walk around the Tidal Basin, and back to the metro. Peak bloom was announced and I want to beat Friday’s rain!

We are looking forward meeting up with filmmakers in DC! Register so we know how many seats to save. Use the galleries exit at Gallery Place Metro and you will be about a block from Maman. Organized by Anna Griesshammer and Melissa Houghton. You MUST register here: https://www.wifv.org/calendar/#id=32405&cid=783&wid=401&type=Cal

This will be our only healing Circle for February. ✨ **An Evening of Reflection, Renewal and Awakening** ✨ Join us for a transformative evening of healing, connection, and self-discovery. Gathered in sacred space around the glow of the fire, we will journey together through meditations designed to ground, restore, and awaken the spirit to purpose and loving service. 🌿 **What to Expect** * Gentle, guided meditations (two new practices each gathering) * Heartfelt sharing in a safe, supportive circle * Space for authentic expression, deep listening, and mutual growth * Meaningful spiritual insights and uplifting discussion This is a gathering for anyone seeking peace, clarity, or community. All are welcome—simply bring an open mind and a respectful heart. 🔥 **When & Where** * We typically meet twice each month on the 2nd & 4th Thursdays. Come as often—or as little—as your spirit calls. * Weather permitting, we gather outdoors in the tipi or by the large fire circle. If needed, we will move indoors. * 💫 **For First-Time Visitors** * No prior experience is needed. * Please arrive **15 minutes early** to settle in. * You are welcome to walk the grounds or explore our crystal shop before the circle begins. 📍 **Directions** * Address: **15406 Riding Stable Rd.** (property is at the end of a ½ mile driveway into the woods). * You will cross a small stream—drive slowly (under 10 MPH) to keep dust down. * Please be mindful of our neighbors and do not stop to interact with horses along the way. * 💖 **Energy Exchange** To help keep this gathering accessible, we invite an offering of **$15–$25**. If you feel called to contribute in another way, please reach out in advance. With love and gratitude, we welcome you into this circle of renewal.

The theme for this coffee talk is: Childhood Memories CKick back in the cozy, modern vibes of Shotted at Tyson’s Galleria! Whether you’re grabbing your favorite espresso or a latte with flair, this is the perfect spot to meet new people, chat about life, and enjoy a casual midweek hangout. Small bites, smooth drinks, and comfy seating make it easy to relax, laugh, and connect. Bring your curiosity, leave the stress at home, and let’s make some good conversation happen!

**NOTE: DATE HAS BEEN CHANGED!!!!** **Late Hello to SPRING!!!** **THIS HAS A NEW START LOCATION AT THE SOUTH END OF BLUEMONT PARK** **++++++++++++++++++++** **The Ride: Summary** **(Must Read)** **++++++++++++++++++++** * RIDE NAME: The Koffee Klatch Ride: Spring into Eclarions * START LOC: **[Bluemont Park Playground](https://www.google.com/maps/place/38%C2%B052'07.6%22N+77%C2%B007'55.7%22W/@38.868786,-77.132133,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m4!3m3!8m2!3d38.868786!4d-77.132133!5m1!1e3?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDMwOS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D)** * **BEST ACCESS FROM RTE 50** * Start GPS: [38°52'07.6"N 77°07'55.7"W](https://www.google.com/maps/place/South+Bluemont+Parking+Area/@38.868907,-77.1342983,16z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x89b7b50016fd88fd:0x8afb6bdf9318a324!8m2!3d38.8689029!4d-77.1317234!16s%2Fg%2F11xgvpr5kw!5m1!1e3?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDMxMS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) ARRIVAL: 12:00pm * SPEECH: 12:10pm * ROLLING: 12:15pm * LEVEL: Medium * DISTANCE: 19.6 mi * PACE: 11-13 mph (Social Pace) * TERRAIN: Trail / Street / Cycle path * RIDEWITHGPS ROUTE: **CBG_KOFFEEK_ECLARIONS_ALEX_2026** [https://ridewithgps.com/routes/54224094](https://ridewithgps.com/routes/54224094) **Notes:** **This ride incorporates two detours from the trails** * This ride is organized "lean" and may not have a sweep. * Pump your tires on the morning of the ride, please. * It is strongly suggested that you become a NoVA CBG RidewithGPS club member and download the route posted for each "Klatch". * Loading the route onto your Garmin (or other Nav device) is also acceptable. * **NoVA CBG has a turn by turn RideWithGPS club account that's free. [https://www.meetup.com/novacbg/events/271742916/](https://www.meetup.com/novacbg/events/271742916/)** **++++++++++++++++++++** **The Ride: Detail** **++++++++++++++++++++** Welcome to The Koffee Klatch! These rides are normally based off the Arlington Loop, where we visit different area coffee shops or bakeries for a cup and/or treat if desired but you don't have to drink or even like coffee to participate. This week we will again do a loop to Old Town Alexandria to celebrate the arrival of Spring 2026! The ride is a 19.6 mile medium level ridden at a social pace (11-13 mph). We will get on the W&OD from the Bluemont **SOUTH** Parking Area to the 4MRT at Shirlington, then the MVT and ride through Old Town and the Wilkes St tunnel to the new Eclarions. We will ride back to the starting point via Columbus St, Cameron St, up the Braddock-King/Potomac Yard Trail, over the Mt Jefferson Park Trail at Stewart St. When we get to Four Mile Run we will head though Arlandia on streets and Shirlington on the 4MRT to Carlin Springs Rd where we get back on the W&OD. **+++++++++++++++++++++** **The Meeting Spot:** **+++++++++++++++++++++** **South** Bluemont Parking 329 N Manchester St Arlington, VA 22203 GPS: [38°52'07.6"N 77°07'55.7"W](https://www.google.com/maps/place/38%C2%B052'07.6%22N+77%C2%B007'55.7%22W/@38.868786,-77.132133,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m4!3m3!8m2!3d38.868786!4d-77.132133!5m1!1e3?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDMwOS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) We will meet in the parking lot. * This location has Restrooms * Next to the Playground and Disc Golf Course **+++++++++++++++++++++** **The Koffee Within The Ride:** **+++++++++++++++++++++** **[Eclarions](https://www.eclairons.com/)** 430 S Washington St Alexandria, VA 22314 **+++++++++++++++++++++** **Ride Level Chart** **+++++++++++++++++++++** NoVA CBG tries to accommodate all levels of cyclists by offering different types/levels of rides. We just ask that you come to the ride that suits your current riding ability the best. * Introductory Level: If you haven't ridden a bike in a number of years (or are uncertain of your abilities on a bicycle). * Beginner Level: You can ride for 10+ miles at a pace of 10+ to 12+ mph with potentially minor hills involved. * Medium Level: You can ride for 20+ miles at a pace of 13+ to 15+ mph with potentially moderate hills involved. * Advanced Level: You can ride for 20++ miles at a pace of 15+ mph with potentially major hills involved. Both Medium and Advanced Levels might require handling various challenges such as reading cue sheets, using a Garmin or navigation app, night riding, out of town travel, or any other odd cycling situations. **+++++++++++++++++++++** **The Fine Print:** **+++++++++++++++++++++** An RSVP of 'YES' is your digital signature and means you have read and understood [MEETUP.com](http://meetup.com/)'s: * "Terms of Service : Section 6. Release" found at [https://www.meetup.com/terms/](https://www.meetup.com/terms/) * NOVA-CBG's "Assumption of Risk Agreement" found @ [https://www.meetup.com/novacbg/pages/1942951/NOVA-CBG_Waiver/](https://www.meetup.com/novacbg/pages/1942951/NOVA-CBG_Waiver/) * NoVA CBG's "COVID Policy" found @ [http://bit.ly/2021_NoVACBG_COVID19_POLICY](http://bit.ly/2021_NoVACBG_COVID19_POLICY) Helmets are required to participate in all NOVA-CBG rides. All riders ride at their own risk and with the understanding that cycling is an inherently dangerous activity. When coming to the meetup you do so voluntarily and are ready and able to participate in the ride as described under the conditions of the day. Be on time for the "pre-ride" preparation. If you do not attend the pre-ride preparation you will not be allowed to participate on the ride. There are NO exceptions to the above.

Come celebrate the golden anniversary of the showcase transit of Washington, the Metrorail! We'll be traveling back and forth over the original stretch of the Red line that opened on March 27, 1976, distributing [t-shirts](https://transitenthusiastsdc.wordpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/t-shirt-order-form.pdf), balloons and stickers. Once we've spread our cheer, we'll retire to the Metro Bar just outside the Rhode Island Avenue station to reminisce and celebrate more. Join us! **NOTE**: Our "official" celebration begins at 4:30. We may add a noontime celebration if there is enough interest. Please email me at williamrice63@gmail.com if you'd like to participate in the earlier event. **ALSO NOTE**: WMATA has of this writing not yet announced what it is doing to celebrate. We will monitor its communications and keep you updated if we adjust our activities to accommodate the agency's plans.

Brookside Gardens is Montgomery County’s incomparable, award-winning 50-acre public display garden within Wheaton Regional Park. Included in the gardens are several distinct areas: Aquatic Garden, Azalea Garden, Butterfly Garden, Children’s Garden, Rose Garden, Japanese inspired Gude Garden, Idea Garden, Rain Garden, and the Woodland Walk. The Formal Gardens areas include a Perennial Garden, Yew Garden, the Maple Terrace, and Fragrance Garden. Brookside Gardens also features two conservatories for year-round enjoyment. Parking and admission to the gardens are free. **Event Details:** This will be a study of lens focal length and how they affect the look of your photographs. How aperture effect the look of the subject (depth of field). **Lens Exploration** Organize sessions around different lens types: * **Macro photography** for close-ups of individual petals and delicate textures. * **Telephoto lenses** for compressing a scene, making rows of trees look overwhelmingly full of blossoms, and isolating subjects to manage crowds. * **Wide-angle lenses** for capturing the entire landscape, such as an avenue of trees, or placing a subject in the foreground to emphasize depth. * How to isolate your subject by the use of depth of field. **Recommended equipment:** DSLR or Mirrorless camera, Macro lens, Wide angle to telephoto zoom lens, flash with diffuser. **Brookside's Photography Guidelines:** * **Do not disturb any gardens, stand on rocks or displays, block paths, or climb garden or fountain walls.** * **The photo session must not interfere with other visitors’ enjoyment of the gardens.** * **Absolutely no tripods are allowed in the Conservatories.** * **Published photographs should credit location of photograph, i.e. “Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD”.** **RAIN DATE:** April 4th **Share Your Work:** We encourage you to share your images with us on the [Harford County Photography Group's Facebook ](https://www.facebook.com/groups/hcphotogroup)page.

Starting from the Washington Monument at the height of the world-famous cherry blossom season, and skimming the Tidal Basin then heading to the White House’s Lafayette Square, this tour will look at the rich history of America's capital. MEET at the east side of the Washington Monument (the side facing the Capitol Building). NOT the Department of Commerce. App won't display the right site name. Nearest metros: Smithsonian & Metro Center. Driving to the venue is Not recommended during the festive season. It will be crowded; arrive in time. Length: 2 to 2.5 hours. We’ll walk from Washington's Monument to the White House & Lafayette Square. And discover: • Japan's great gift to America • The lost public beach--at the Tidal Basin! • The mysterious Jefferson Pier • The Marquis de Lafayette’s amazing & perilous associations with multiple American Presidents • Where the term "red tape" was invented • Disputes over the Jefferson Memorial • The Washington Monument riot • The city's grand philanthropists • Tales of the Lincoln Memorial • The scoundrel who betrayed Jefferson, killed Hamilton, and tried setting up his own country—with the head of the U.S. Army! • Designer of the White House • Assassination attempts on Presidents • A walk with President Lincoln. • The town's many female heroines • Cracking the secret codes of Nazi Germany and Imperial Japan • The early Navy's greatest hero • The soldier who saved Jefferson from being hanged • The plot that saved Mt. Vernon • And more! Pre-register and prepay via-- Eventbrite: [https://www.eventbrite.com/e/peak-bloom-cherry-blossom-dc-history-tour-trees-to-white-house-march-29-tickets-1984701539732?aff=oddtdtcreator&keep_tld=true](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/peak-bloom-cherry-blossom-dc-history-tour-trees-to-white-house-march-29-tickets-1984701539732?aff=oddtdtcreator&keep_tld=true) Or PayPal, sending $22 to: [paypal.me/EMoser460](http://paypal.me/EMoser460) You can also pay in cash, $22, at the tour's start. We’re highly rated on TripAdvisor: [https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g28970-d12791843-Reviews-Lafayette_Square_Tour_of_Scandal_Assassination_Intrigue-Washington_DC_District_of.html](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g28970-d12791843-Reviews-Lafayette_Square_Tour_of_Scandal_Assassination_Intrigue-Washington_DC_District_of.html) Your tour guide is a former speechwriter to the President of the United States, a former writer for Jay Leno’s “The Tonight Show”, & author of books on the hidden history of the White House, the Capitol Building, and Alexandria, Virginia: The White House's Unruly Neighborhood: [https://www.amazon.com/White-Houses-Unruly-Neighborhood-Lafayette-ebook/dp/B082ZVDCD7/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=](https://www.amazon.com/White-Houses-Unruly-Neighborhood-Lafayette-ebook/dp/B082ZVDCD7/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=) And: The Lost Capitol: [https://www.amazon.com/Lost-History-Capitol-Tumultuous-Congress-ebook/dp/B099JBSN9Q](https://www.amazon.com/Lost-History-Capitol-Tumultuous-Congress-ebook/dp/B099JBSN9Q) And a forthcoming book on Georgetown! Questions? Contact: [191.EP.JM.56@proton.me](mailto:191.EP.JM.56@proton.me) Think history is boring? Not on our tours! Restaurants available for dinner afterwards, at the Old Ebbitt Grill, The Hamilton, et al. Celebrate the blossoming of spring and the Easter season with a fun, informative tour of America's most historic, scenic venues! MEET at the east side of the Washington Monument (the side facing the Capitol Building). NOT the Department of Commerce. App won't display the right site name.

Hey Poetry Lovers! This group is on a roll. Here’s the gist: We meet at the **Capital One Café in Chinatown** from **12pm - 2pm** every other week. For enrichment, we start by reading and reflecting on a **“published poem”**, suggested by someone in the group. No advance preparation is necessary. But feel free to check out some of the poems we’ve read [here](https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/e/2PACX-1vSyE_wCLQCPHRrKmN5F9tOIeeRQUZESxjRXGVBoCF2uU8Gm0_d0uECiCBCQXEy6ksxfsBOhtRIOpW3T/pubhtml?gid=0&single=true&widget=true&headers=false%22%3E%3C/iframe%3E). Or submit suggestions for future meetings [here](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSexGc2Z2Kp6bZW0D3_hfJ7NUUkfNHf7TXX-43FglCeBd9EF2Q/viewform?usp=send_form). Next, we **share our work and offer feedback**. Depending on attendance, everyone gets \~10 minutes to use as they like. (No need to share, though; you’re welcome to come even if you prefer just to listen.) We maintain a **Discord server** to help share our work and communicate outside our bi-weekly meet-ups. If you haven’t used Discord before, take a moment to download it and create an account before arriving. When we meet you on Saturday, we will add you to our server, the “DC Poetry Workshop”, and can help you navigate the app if you have questions. Finally, if you plan on sharing a poem, consider how you will do so. Some options include: * Print 5-10 copies to distribute in person * Take and share screenshots in the Discord chat. * Copy the poem into a google doc, change sharing settings to “anyone with link”, and copy the google doc link into the Discord chat. Most importantly, we’re excited to meet you! Catch you on Saturday, Diego / Ian / Cayden / Nate / Otasha / Lia / An

Hello Everyone! This is the make up date for the national portrait gallery in DC since I cancelled the event in January that was supposed to happen due to snow! My advice to get there is take the metro which should be easier to get there! We will meet outside of the gallery building and then walk in you may go at your own pace we do not have to stick together!

We meet to learn and practice American Sign Language and to grow our familiarity with Deaf culture. Facilitated by hearing folks (with a connection to a professional interpreter) using Deaf-created content. People of all ASL skill levels are welcome! As we learn, we hope to connect more with the Deaf community in Central Ohio. Join us as you're able! Come regularly or just once - whatever you're looking for! Each meetup will explore different topics related to ASL/Deaf culture, and will feature time to practice conversation with one another. Just bring yourself and a willingness to learn!

Columbus Code & Coffee is excited to partner with GiveBackHack to put on the Healthtech Impact Sprint from 3/28-3/29 at Rev1 at The Peninsula! RSVP here using promo code CODEANDCOFFEE: https://luma.com/tk2jdrxk This is a health-specific version of GBH’s traditional weekend event. Participants pitch, research, and prototype health-focused projects for a chance to earn to $5K in funding from The Columbus Foundation and IGS Energy. On Saturday, folks will pitch their idea, form teams, and build. On Sunday, they’ll finalize their pitches before showcasing their work to the community and judges. # ​Schedule ​**Sat, Mar 28** * ​​9a: Doors open & breakfast * ​9:30a: Kickoff and intros * ​​10a: Ideation session * ​​11a: Pitches & team formation * ​​12p: Working lunch * ​​2p: Mentor visits * ​​5p: Free work (optional) * ​​9p: Doors close ​​**Sun, Mar 29** * ​9a: Doors open * ​10a: Mentor visits * ​​12p: Showcase * ​​1p: Final pitches & awards * ​​2p: Wrap *** # ​ FAQs ​**Do all ideas have a chance at getting funded?** ​​Not all ideas will move forward after initial pitches on Saturday. Once pitches are complete, we’ll vote for top ideas and form teams around the 4 – 7 ideas with the most votes. You must recruit **at least four total team members** (including the founder) to move forward and have a chance at getting funded on Sunday. If your idea doesn’t move forward, you can join another team! ​​**Do I have to submit my idea online prior to the event?** ​​Unlike previous years, we don’t have the option to submit your idea online prior to the event. Instead, everyone will be going through a brainstorming exercise on Saturday that’ll help you prepare for your initial pitch. ​​**Will we be working for 24 hours straight?** ​​Nope. The event is split over two days. You’ll be building on Saturday and pitching on Sunday. ​​**Do I have to pitch an idea?** ​​Nope. You can also simply join a team. ​​**What types of entrepreneurs does GBH support?** ​​While GBH most often works with technology startups, we support *any* organization (for- or non-profit) that makes an impact on health in the US or across the world.

**Important time note:** Please plan on arriving between 5:30 and 6:00 as the elevators lock after 6 and you'll need to message us and we'll need to come get you. The building address is 4450 Bridge Park The entrance is 6620 Mooney St, Suite 400 **Abstract** Web Forms gave .NET developers a powerful abstraction for building reusable UI controls long before design systems were a thing. Web Components finally bring that same idea to the browser natively. This session explores how the Web Forms mindset translates into Custom Elements, Shadow DOM, and HTML templates. We’ll examine how Web Components enable design systems that work across frameworks, how they differ from server‑driven controls, and why they’re becoming a foundational layer for modern UI. Whether you’re maintaining legacy apps or building greenfield projects, you’ll leave with a practical understanding of how to apply familiar patterns in a modern, standards‑based way. **YouTube Link** TBA

Our monthly PHP meetup. A virtual shindig courtesy of Zoom. Check back here for the details around 6:15 pm

***Join us for a behind-the-scenes look at Wyandotte Winery!*** Discover where local wines are crafted, and gain insights into the making of small-batch wines. Learn about the interesting history of Wyandotte Winery and the unique aspects that make it a local gem. **Highlights:** • Guided tour of the wine cellar and details on our wine-making process • Historical overview of Wyandotte Winery - and updates on What's New at the winery! • Opportunity to taste our current wine selection • Ask questions and interact with the Wyandotte team **Start Times**: 1:00 PM, other times by request. **Cost:** $10 (includes 1 glass of wine). Pay at the door **Parking:** usually best to park one block down the road in the church parking lot. 2 minute walk. **Note:** Touring the cellar requires taking one flight of stairs. After your tour, feel free to join us for a Fired Up Pizza or winery small plate! Whether you're a wine enthusiast or just curious, this tour will enhance your appreciation for wine and small-batch winemaking. Cheers!!![🍷]()

**TBA**

Let’s meet and wander the galleries and enjoy a spring evening out downtown! Meeting place and approx route, tba. *Fearure photo by Chalk Goblin