Barry Beck and his wife, Marla, founded Bluemercury in 1999. Its status as the fastest-growing luxury beauty and spa retail chain caught the eye of Macy’s Inc., which acquired the brand in 2015. The stores are still run under the Bluemercury label, are still curated by the Becks and continue to be the go-to for all things beauty.
Pampering
Bluemercury Mosaic: I go to Bluemercury in Mosaic for our fabulous Purifying Facial. It’s our most requested service and was rated by Oprah as the best facial in America.
Dining
The Palm Tysons Corner: [This] is the go-to spot for power players and business elite. I go there for the steaks and 5-pound lobsters. Who can resist their fabulous cheesecake?
L’Auberge Chez Francois: It transports any dining experience to a small town in France and reminds me of a recent romantic trip to Monaco with my wife.
Peking Gourmet Inn: From George W. to Clinton and celebrities alike—they all make the trek to Falls Church for Peking Gourmet Inn’s spectacular duck. Every catered party at Chez Beck includes this delicious treat.
Shopping
Swirl & Sip: It’s fun to browse the selection of niche wines. I recently picked up Gaja Conteisa, a red wine created in the Piedmont region of Northern Italy. It’s difficult to find outside its local region, and everybody knows I love Italy.
Grooming Advice
Men should stick to a pared-down routine—one product for everything. Molton Brown’s Recharge Black Pepper Sport Wash is a four-in-one. Why search for four bottles?
Exploring
Katie’s Cars and Coffee: An admitted car buff, I drift down to Great Falls, where people come to show off some of the best touring cars ever built, from Ferraris to Lamborghinis.
Salamander Resort: To escape the noise of D.C., we like to head [here]. It’s the perfect mix of a luxury resort and a family getaway. Our three kids love going there on the weekends.
Social Scene
Sally Steponkus: Sally Steponkus is my go-to for all things style. With great taste and an amazing sense of casually chic elegance, she has many notable clients in Northern Virginia.