When Fifty-Two Thursdays co-founder, Sarah Phillips made the bold decision to take on The Scout Guide here in Alexandria, she accepted the helm with an understanding that there would be obstacles along the way.
“The Scout Guide was already established here in Alexandria, so my biggest challenge was being the new kid on the block and earning the trust of the small businesses and readers in our community.” - Sarah
Sarah’s impressive background in social media resulted in an improved online presence for the publication and it didn’t take long for her fellow business owners and readers to notice. Her editorial vision to show Old Town in a new light and her innovative collaborations began to help the community grow together. Though The Scout Guide Alexandria has left its footprint in more than sixty different cities across the country, Sarah says she can’t imagine doing this anywhere else.
“This town is so special to me and I’m thankful for all the relationships I’ve made along the way.” - Sarah
To Sarah, being the editor of The Scout Guide Alexandria is not just a job — it’s her whole world. “I’m a small business owner just like the rest of my members. I love my community, it’s my home, too, and take this position seriously as I feel a responsibility to continue to help Alexandria grow and prosper.” With ideals such as this, it’s no wonder Sarah was selected to be one of The Chamber ALX’s 40 under 40 winners this year. “I was so honored. It has been a wonderful experience getting to know the chamber and all they do to support our community. I am really looking forward to working with them over this next year and beyond.”
If you’re wondering if the pandemic has slowed down Sarah and The Scout Guide Alexandria, you don’t need to worry. The sixth volume is currently in the works and set to be released in Spring 2021––. Overcoming the challenges that have been presented this year was not easy. Luckily for Alexandria, thinking outside of the box is what Sarah is known for. Sarah made it her mission to continue supporting local business owners while many of them were forced to temporarily close their doors. She opened upThe Scout Guide's” social media channels to provide a platform for them to continue serving their clients in unique ways and partnered with McEnearney Associates to offer weekly Master Classes for business owners. “We want to be a resource for the community during hard times but also a distraction.
Be sure to follow The Scout Guide on social media, as Sarah has promised the announcement of several exciting projects that will be launching in the next year here in Alexandria. “My goal is to continue to see Alexandria prosper and thrive and I hope that TSG Alexandria can play a part in that…. I can’t wait to see these plans come to fruition.'
For more information on the 40 Under 40 Awards Program and The Chamber ALX, contact