Street Style: Penelope Norton
Penelope, The Shoe Hive’s Assistant Manager, has worked for us since August, right around the time we were opening The Hive. Elizabeth told me she had hired this “cute girl from church” who had never worked in retail before. I was admittedly a little worried but we needed all the help we could get. To say I am now grateful Penelope is a member of our team is a dramatic understatement.
I like to think she and I became fast friends, but the truth is I was instantly charmed. Her quick wit and goofy sense of humor combined with an incredible work ethic and positive attitude won me over. Then I discovered we shared a love of uncommon foods, hikes, travel, yoga, and foreign policy. (Yes, we are as nerdy as they come!) She has a remarkable gift of empathy, sense of adventure, and it turns out a real knack for retail!
It didn’t take her long before she could speak confidently and competently about our brands, styles, and businesses. She really cares about our customers and sees to it that they are well served when they come into our store. So, next time you’re at The Shoe Hive, give her a hug on my behalf and ask her about her bees!
Penelope is wearing garments from The Hive and shoes and accessories from The Shoe Hive.
ABOUT YOU
How do you spend your time? Outside or travelling.
Neighborhood: Mount Vernon
How long have you lived in Alexandria: Since the day I was born!
What is your hometown? Mount Vernon
What brought you to Alexandria? Originally birth and now by choice!
What would surprise people about you? I keep bees!
You’re a superhero: what’s your superpower? To speak every language.
Favorite cocktail: If a good quality mezcal isn’t available, which it usually isn’t, I go with a dirty martini.
Last book read or movie seen: Chesapeake by James Michener
Guilty Pleasure: Bubble tea.
Phrase you overuse: “Literally . . .”
Facebook or Instagram? Instagram
Latest binge-watch: Last season of Top Chef.
Bucket list travel destination: Oh so many places left to see, but right now backpacking through South America. I’ve yet to step on that continent.
If you only could have one for the rest of your life: wine or coffee? Coffee. Hands down.
FASHION
Define your style in three words or less: Audrey meets backpacker.
The go-to piece in your wardrobe: My white Chuck Taylors.
Favorite trend ever: Vintage 50s, early 60s.
Favorite current trend: White sneakers.
Beauty product you can’t live without: Facial masks.
Favorite fragrance: Adidas.
Heels or flats? Heels.
HOME
Favorite room in your home: Kitchen
Antiques, modern, or a mix? Definitely a mix.
Last item bought for your home: A wool blanket.
Next planned purchase: A huge wall map of the world.
Favorite way to entertain: Large dinner parties with AMAZING food!
Clutter-free or well-lived in? Well-lived in.
Wallpaper — yes, totally modern or no, so dated: That totally depends on the pattern of the wallpaper.
FITNESS
Your go-to work-out: Running
Most fun way to exercise: Salsa dancing. I’m told my soul is Latin.
Group exercise or solo: Solo unless it’s a yoga class…I need serious guidance there.
Fitness goal: Run a half marathon this year.
Haven’t yet, but might be willing to try with coaching / encouragement: Aerial yoga.
Proudest fitness achievement: When I ran my first half marathon several years ago.
ALEXANDRIA
Favorite spot in Alexandria: The School for Little Swans. I have so many fond memories of going to ballet class there.
Last purchase in Alexandria: The Shoe Hive!
Best coffee / happy hour / date night spot: Best happy hour is still up in the air, but best coffee is definitely Mischa’s.
Favorite charity: They may not be considered a charity, but I have donated the most money to Planned Parenthood.
Favorite annual Alexandria event: Can I say weekly? The farmer’s market!
