This Valentines Day, Compass Coffee had the absolute joy of partnering with DC Area Moms for a Galentine’s Day coffee & hot chocolate social, an event that truly embodied our shared belief in building community and fostering meaningful connections. Moms and kids gathered at our cafe in Georgetown, indulging in warm cups of coffee and rich hot chocolate (with whipped cream, of course), while diving into fun Valentines Day crafts. The air was full of laughter and conversation as new friendships formed, old ones rekindled, and a sense of warmth spread through the space.
Photos by Mdree Photography
To set the Galentine’s Day tone, tins of our Cherry Blossom Blend and fresh pink & white florals decorated the tables, adding the perfect festive touch. Local photographer Mariandree Paiz stopped by to capture all the fun! And our Marketing Director, Sydney, couldn’t resist joining in, crafting a few Valentine’s Day cards of her own!
But beyond the coffee, the crafts, and the florals… this event was about something bigger — creating a space for connection — something we strive to do every day in our cafes. At Compass Coffee, we believe in more than just serving great coffee. That’s an important part, of course, but we believe in being a part of something bigger, in making sure that wherever we are, we’re helping build our city. That’s why partnerships with groups like DC Area Moms feel so natural. Like us, their mission is rooted in community — bringing people together, supporting one another, and making this transient city feel just a little bit more like home.
Photos by Mdree Photography
To dive deeper into that mission, we sat down with Courtney Whittington, the founder of DC Area Moms, to learn more about her journey, her love for community, and why she’s so passionate about connecting moms across the DMV area.
Q&A with DC Area Moms Founder, Courtney Whittington
What inspired you to start DC Area Moms?
"Providing resources and building a sense of community that makes moms’ lives easier and more enriching has always been at the heart of why I started DC Area Moms. Motherhood is hard, but it doesn’t have to be lonely. I wanted to create a space where moms could find the information, encouragement, and support they needed—whether that was through parenting tips, local events, or just a reminder that they weren’t in this alone.
The whole purpose of our site is to give moms a virtual hug—to say, ‘You’ve got this, and we’re here to help.’ I know firsthand how overwhelming it can be, especially as a new mom or someone who has moved to a new city and is trying to find their footing. There are so many questions, so many decisions to make, and sometimes you just need someone to say, ‘Here’s a resource, here’s a group you can join, here’s an event where you’ll meet other moms.’ That’s the heart of what we do.
DC is such a transient city, and it can be hard to put down roots. I felt a deep calling to create something that would bring moms out of isolation and help them connect with one another in meaningful ways. I truly believe that whatever you put into your community, that’s what you get out of it. It’s not always easy to take that first step, but when you do, you’ll find that there are so many moms out there who are looking for the exact same thing—connection, friendship, and support.
So, DC Area Moms was created to be more than just a resource—it’s a community, a support system, and a place where moms can come together, share their experiences, and build the village that every mom deserves to have."
Describe your perfect mom’s day out in DC. What are your favorite spots to unwind? With kids and without?
"With kids, I would say waking up and going to a coffee shop, getting them hot chocolate, and just getting out of the house. We love going to the Smithsonian Museums—especially the Smithsonian American Art Museum. My older kids appreciate it more now, but even the younger ones love it. The MLK Library is another favorite because it has a giant slide and a play area, so it’s both fun and educational for them.
If it’s just me, I love the Renwick Gallery—it’s small enough to not feel overwhelming, but still so beautiful and calming. I also love the Portrait Gallery and its courtyard, which is great in any season. For a real treat, I’d go to one of DC’s amazing hotels for a little staycation or a nice restaurant—I actually have a whole list of top spots for a date night or self-care day on our website!"
What’s one “mom hack” you swear by that has made your life so much easier?
"I love nature! Even if my kids don’t want to go on a nature walk, I take them anyway. Rock Creek Park is amazing—just letting kids throw a rock into the creek, climb around trees, and experience nature create real core memories. It’s good for their eyes, their mindset, and their bodies to move. Also—bring snacks, bring water, and text a friend to come along! It doesn’t have to be a big ordeal. Just get together and get outside. Having other kids with them makes everything more fun."
What’s your go-to order at Compass Coffee?
"Well I love Compass, first of all. Right now my go-to is the peppermint mocha, and the rest of the year I’m a big fan of anything chocolate!"
Best advice to new mothers?
"Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there! One of my longest friendships started when we met at the pediatrician’s office when our babies were just, like, a day old. We exchanged numbers, and we’re still friends to this day. You never know who you’ll meet.
Also, don’t wait for someone else to make plans—if you want to build your community, take the initiative. Text four or five people, and even if three of them say they’re busy, the fourth might be free. Keep putting yourself out there and creating the community you want to see."
You may not think about it as much as we do, but great cup of coffee can do more than just wake you up — it’s a tool for connection. A shared table at the cafe, a playdate-turned-friendship, or a simple conversation that leads to a lifelong connection, the magic is in building our city one cup, one conversation, and one community at a time.
A huge thank you to Courtney and DC Area Moms for making this event so special. We can’t wait for more moments like this, where coffee, conversation, and community come together to create something truly meaningful.
