Nestled in the heart of McLean, The Preppy Pink Pony is more than a boutique—it’s a local institution, a carefully curated experience that feels like stepping into the most charming chapter of a Southern storybook. At its center is Virginia Kennedy: a former attorney turned tastemaker, whose journey from the back of a horse show box truck to boutique owner is as colorful as the monogrammed gifts lining her store’s shelves. “I wish I could say there was a master plan,” Kennedy laughs, recounting how the boutique began out of necessity and needlepoint. With her daughter competing in horse shows nearly every weekend, Kennedy filled the long hours by creating custom saddle pads and belts. That small, handcrafted start grew into a tiny booth—and eventually, a thriving business beloved by the McLean community. From Saddle Pads to Stationery The Preppy Pink Pony found its name in Kennedy’s daughter’s passions: preppy style, a love of pink, and—of course—ponies. “It just stuck,” she says. The store evolved from equestrian gear to a full-on lifestyle boutique offering gifts, clothing, custom stationery, wedding invitations, and home accents, all wrapped in a bright, cheerful aesthetic that Kennedy describes as “classic, layered, and personal.” Her philosophy? “I don’t carry anything I wouldn’t use myself.” Every product is personally tested—E. Newton jewelry is worn daily by Kennedy; linens are washed and rewashed at home before hitting the shelves. That rigorous process ensures everything she stocks is not only beautiful but durable and thoughtfully sourced. A Boutique That Feels Like ‘Cheers’ Walk into The Preppy Pink Pony and it’s immediately clear that it’s more than just a shopping destination—it’s a gathering spot. “It’s kind of like the bar from Cheers,” Kennedy says. “People walk in and see someone they haven’t seen in three years—and they just reconnect.” This warmth isn’t accidental. Kennedy and her small team make it a point to balance approachability with privacy, helping customers when asked and knowing when to let them explore. “Some people want help finding a gift, some just want to browse. You learn to read the room.” She also makes time for more involved experiences, like custom wedding invitations or baby gifts, with consultations scheduled before or after hours. “Custom doesn’t mean expensive,” she insists. “It just takes a little more time.” Curated With Integrity—and a Little Sparkle While Kennedy doesn’t chase trends, she’s not afraid to evolve. Recently, she added new brands like E. Newton and expanded her baby section, which includes cult-favorite towels by Three Marthas and plush gifts from Bunnies by the Bay. “I swear every baby in McLean has one,” she jokes. Advice for Your Own Preppy Chic Want to recreate the Pony aesthetic at home? Kennedy’s biggest tip: “Only have things you love.” She encourages layering patterns, injecting a pop of unexpected color (“like orange or black in a pink room”), and investing in a few unique, quality items to elevate a space. Her take on style is refreshingly grounded: “It doesn’t have to come from my store. You can build beautiful rooms with HomeGoods if you know your palette.” Looking Ahead Fall 2025 will bring new styles and new surprises—including a trunk show with the Houston-based Oh My Mahjong team. “We’re planning tables outside the shop, pizza next door, and a night of mahjong under the stars,” she says, her enthusiasm contagious. Although the demands on a small business owner are rigorous and the hours long, Kennedy wouldn’t trade it for anything. “I love it. I’ve been part of weddings, baby showers, graduations—I’ve watched generations grow up.” Indeed, Virginia Kennedy and The Preppy Pink Pony have become part of McLean’s own generational style story. A little preppy, a lot pink, and entirely heartfelt.
Style Snapshot -
Neutral or bold palettes? Bold!
Preppy staple? Monogrammed everything
Summer style must-have? A breezy linen dress