Modern Revival, a transformative wellness startup founded by local entrepreneur and philanthropist Mikel Blair, launched its first location and headquarters today at 7809 Woodmont Ave. in Bethesda, providing a dedicated time and space for women to form deeper friendships and connections. Modern Revival is an “intentional community comprised of “circles” or groups of eight to 12 women that gather monthly to do self-work through meaningful dialogue, curiosity and play.”
For the past three years, Blair and Modern Revival’s Co-Founder and Chief Content Officer Courtney Smith have hosted circles in the D.C. region and Southern California, respectively. Together, they developed a structured curriculum focused on building presence and self-awareness. Through the experience, participants learn tools and language for self-exploration and sharing on a deeper level than surface conversations.
Seasoned facilitators lead guided conversations and introspective exercises from an expert-based curriculum to help participants create more purposeful and connected lives in an increasingly lonely, disconnected and distracted world. Sessions will be hosted at Modern Revival’s space at 7809 Woodmont Avenue in Bethesda.
“At Modern Revival, we’re having fearlessly curious and flat-out fun conversations while becoming better versions of ourselves by carving out a designated time and place for deepening our relationships,” said Mikel Blair, CEO & Co-Founder. “We’re excited to officially launch our first location in Bethesda after hosting circles in the D.C. area and Southern California for the past three years.”
Per Modern Revival: “Nearly one in four adults feel lonely and a multitude of studies have shown that increased socialization has led to better health, even living longer and happier lives. Modern Revival provides an inclusive third space for women of all ages and stages outside of their professional, social and familial environments.
“Over a decade ago, I had the opportunity to cultivate a radically supportive group of friends through a conscious leadership practice. With these women, I had permission to stretch into myself by questioning, challenging and sometimes even rejecting ideas and dreams I’d held tightly,” Blair continued. “After years of creating deep connections in a structured environment, my life and relationships have dramatically transformed for the better. This personal growth inspired the launch of Modern Revival, a space where women can connect authentically with themselves and others.”
Modern Revival’s light-filled loft in Bethesda’s Woodmont Triangle serves as the company’s headquarters and studio space. Sleek, modern design and eye-catching art complemented by upscale finishes and a variety of soft seating provide a stylish setting for circles to gather.
Modern Revival offers a range of membership options, including one-year, quarterly and monthly commitments, starting at $190 per month. Modern Revival membership includes monthly meetings, curated materials containing guided learnings and exercises to supplement the in-person sessions and access to the Modern Revival community. Registration is now open as Modern Revival builds new communities in the D.C. area. For more information, please visit www.modernrevival.com.”
ABOUT MODERN REVIVAL: Modern Revival provides women with a place and a purpose that’s their own – separate from the pre-existing dynamics well-worn into relationships with family, friends and colleagues. “Circles” or groups of eight to twelve women gather each month to share, listen, learn and play to create deep connections at the root of collective wellness. Based in Bethesda, Maryland, Modern Revival was co-founded by Mikel Blair and Courtney Smith and is currently building new communities in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area.
ABOUT MIKEL BLAIR: Mikel Blair brings over a decade of experience to her conscious practices, with a passion for empowering women to cultivate more joy, awareness and vibrant growth in our daily lives. As the Co-Founder of Modern Revival, Mikel facilitates curriculum-based gatherings for women that encourage self-exploration and empowerment through deepening relationships, wisdom and emotional intelligence. Additionally, she was the Founder of Badlands in Rockville, Maryland, an innovative space for children’s learning through play and conscious living.
Beyond her entrepreneurial ventures, Mikel is deeply involved in community service and advocacy. She volunteers with various organizations focused on education equity, youth empowerment and mental health access. Mikel’s commitment to social impact extends to her roles as a trustee for the Bullis School and a board member of Conservation Nation. Previously, she played a pivotal role in expanding the Peer Health Exchange’s reach in the DC area, advancing initiatives for healthier communities. Mikel’s multifaceted leadership underscores her belief in equitable opportunities for all individuals and sustainable environmental solutions.
