The Fairfax Girl Team 
There’s so much more to life in Northern Virginia than commuting and strange weather. Our neighbors are what make life here so fun and interesting, and we love to share more about what they’re up to. This month, Northern Virginia neighbors we’re featuring include a ceramicist, a clothing designer, and a baker. Read on for more Northern Virginia locals to watch.
Deborah Dillard, Ludic Lillian | Fairfax
Deborah Dillard, of Fairfax, is the artist behind the brand Ludic Lillian, which offers both artisanal ceramics and boutique teas. Deborah was raised with an emphasis on utilitarian items that also possess color and style. She channels these values into her ceramics, using a signature color-pop pattern inspired by Venetian glass beads from her childhood. Her work is guided by the philosophy of quality over quantity, ensuring her durable, dishwasher-safe creations inspire users to treat themselves with care while maintaining a sense of playfulness.
Deborah emphasizes fair trade and quality, sourcing whole leaf teas and spices to create her own tea lines. Her approach is rooted in intentional living, mirroring the “waste not, want not” mantra she grew up with, which she continues to practice by supporting sustainable, package-free retail options. Deborah says that her experiences reflect a deep commitment to integrating beauty into everyday objects, fostering local economic health, and maintaining sustainable, high-quality standards in her products.
John O’Connor, 2 Faces Clothing Co. | Fairfax
Fairfax native John O’Connor is the founder of 2-Faces Clothing Co., a skate and streetwear line with designs rooted in humor, nostalgia, and a passion for music. John has a BFA from George Mason University and sees the brand as an opportunity to champion personal expression, seeing clothing as a medium for how people perceive themselves and share themselves with the world. Looking forward, John’s primary goals for 2-Faces Clothing Co. are to grow the brand’s presence by connecting with similar businesses and gaining greater industry establishment.
See more: Where to Pick Your Own Sunflowers in Northern Virginia
Johnny + Diana Nguyen, MidnighTreats | Northern Virginia
MidnighTreats started in Johnny Nguyen’s mom’s kitchen in Vienna, VA in 2018. He and his partner Diana have grown the business from a home-based bakery to a local chain with four locations. The bakery is fully vegan, which means yes, those signature third-of-a-pound cookies have no eggs or butter. Johnny + Diana say that the flavor profile of the vegan items is indistinguishable from conventional recipes, and that customers like that the treats have the same flavor but with cleaner ingredients.
They just opened a new location in Reston Town Center, right by the ice rink, which will be a real treat come skating season. There are two other Northern Virginia locations, in Arlington and Alexandria, and a fourth location in College Park, MD. The team also offers catering for large orders.
Rashad Swar El Dahab, Kunafa Cupz | Herndon
Rashad Swar El Dahab is the founder of Kunafa Cupz, a business based in Herndon, Virginia, that offers a modern twist on the classic Middle Eastern dessert, kunafa. Rashad serves handcrafted kunafa cups at various farmers’ markets, pop-ups, and catered events throughout Northern Virginia. His mission is to share authentic flavors while connecting with the local community through memorable food experiences. Rashad appreciates the diversity of Northern Virginia and enjoys exploring the local culinary scene, with favorite spots ranging from Reston Town Center to various Korean BBQ restaurants. His ultimate goal is to grow Kunafa Cupz into a platform that brings people together and supports local events and businesses.
Read more: This Alexandria Boutique is a Destination for Perfume Lovers Nationwide
Shanlee Johnson, Little Birdies Boutique | Northern Virginia
Photo credit: Sarah Drewry Photo
Shanlee Johnson’s professional journey revolves around her creative ventures, Little Birdies, which she founded in 2012, and her newer brand, Toco Can Can. This latest project includes a children’s book series and a coloring app designed for kids. Shanlee draws inspiration from her own travels to craft stories centered around a “happy little toucan bird.” She also composes music to accompany her books, creating an interactive, wholesome experience for children to enjoy. She has lived in the area since 2010 and loves the local culture and diverse businesses.
Stephanie Davari-McConnon, Wise Butterfly Shop | Vienna
Stephanie Davari-McConnon opened the Wise Butterfly Shop in summer 2026 in downtown Vienna after a 20-year career in corporate America. Stephanie created the shop to foster a welcoming environment centered on kindness, confidence, and community. The boutique is designed to be a space where women feel seen, valued, and encouraged, whether they are shopping for an outfit or simply enjoying the boutique experience.
Stephanie is a lifelong Vienna resident and is excited to support the community through working with other businesses. Her ultimate goal for WiseButterfly Shop is to inspire women to embrace their authentic selves rather than just following trends or fitting into specific sizes. She measures her success by the confidence her customers feel when they walk out her door.
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