River City Magazine Jan/Feb 2019

THE ARTS WITH ASHLEY: CONGO MASTERPIECES AT VMFA

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January / February 2019

BACKSTAGE WITH DAVY JONES:

On Making Her Second Album

RAISING THE BAR SEASONAL COCKTAILS

A SAMPLING OF WEDDING VENUES:

LET’S GET MARRIED!

HENRY BOX BROWN THINKING OUTSIDE THE BOX

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Contents

RiverCity JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2019

PRESIDENT // PUBLISHER

William J. Davis, Jr.

VICE-PRESIDENT // PUBLISHER

Cheryl T. Davis

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Steve Cook

ASSISTANT EDITOR

Ashley Jefferson COPY EDITOR

Tammy Wersinger CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Michael Lay

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Ryan Hooley

DIGITAL MANAGER / GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Joey Wharton

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Jay Denny, Joey Wharton ADDITIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY

BarberStock.com, BigStockPhoto.com

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CONTRIBUTORS

John Green, Derrick Hooley, Davy Jones, Kathleen Whitlow STAFF WRITER

Anjelica Garcia

22

RAISING THE BAR

WOOFY WHISPERER

04

RiverCity Flow

18

Happy Hour

06

Backstage with Davy Jones:

20

Super Bowl Appetizers

22

Raising The Bar

22

Let’s Get Married!

Anjelica Garcia

10

Henry “Box” Brown

12

The Arts with Ashley

Thinking Outside the Box

Congo Masterpieces at VMFA

14

The Woofy Whisperer

16

Tastebudz

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January / February 2019

Jimmy Davis

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Keys To Building A Sellable Business

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About Our Cover:

In this issue of RiverCity, Davy Jones interviews Anjelica Garcia, one of a crop of talented young musicians bringing a new energy to the Richmond music scene. Photographer Joey Wharton captured Anjelica for our cover and article. Also in this issue, managing editor Ashley Jefferson covers the VMFA’s Congo Masks exhibit and contributor John Green reveals the story of Henry “Box” Brown.

From the Editor In 2014, just a year before I moved to Richmond, the city was dubbed as one of the “8 Under-The-Radar Foodie Cities In The World’ by U.S. News & World Report. The title excited me for two main reasons: one, I am a die hard foodie who loves to explore new cuisines; and two, I just couldn’t believe how lucky I was that a city, to where I was moving, was actually being recognized as one of the most notable foodie towns in the World. What such luck I was having! So, as soon as I reached Richmond and unloaded my belongings, it became my mission to see for myself what Richmond had to offer.

And I didn’t waste a moment of time. Restaurants like Croaker’s Spot, Vagabonds, Latitude and West Coast Provisions became my chomping grounds. Rogue Gentlemen, Perch, Boathouse and Pumpkins Kitchen Café were all on my ever-growing list of places to visit. Every time I visited one restaurant, a brand-new one would open, introducing my taste buds to new and interesting flavor combinations almost every day of the week. I was in culinary heaven during those first few years with nightly dinner reservations on Cloud Nine.

And I’m glad to say that even today, I still continue to find new (or rather, new-to-me) restaurants each week. However, it has finally dawned upon me that I have completely neglected other aspects of the Rover City, most notably the thriving arts and culture scene.

This thought came to me while attending The Wizard of Oz at The Altria Theatre just before Christmas. I couldn’t believe that Opening Night for the show was also the first time I had visited the theatre since moving.

In my previous cities, I visited the theatre all the time. But somehow in Richmond, my targeted focus on food caused me to forget my love for the arts. And while yes, it is satisfying to feed the stomach, there is always an advantage to feeding the mind and spirit. Fortunately, Richmond swells with opportunities to experience well-curated examples of imagination and expression. And now, I intend to exploit every opportunity to do so…. within reason, of course.

But, this isn’t something that I want to do alone. Which is why I cordially invite you all to join me in exploring the arts, entertainment and culture scene of Richmond, Virginia. In a new feature entitled, The Arts With Ashley, I will chronicle my exploration and experiences of Richmond’s most loved museums, theatres, play houses and social events.

Including images and notes from conversations with the city’s movers and shakers of visual and dramatic art, music, culture and the like, I intend to bring to light the jewels and gems that I ignorantly neglected for so long. Anywhere there is an expression of self and imagination, I plan to be there.

And the spotlight shines right now! In my very first article of The Arts with Ashley, I discuss my visit to the VMFA to see the extraordinary exhibit, Congo Masks: Masterpieces From Central Africa. Carved by the most elite members of several Congolese and Central African tribes, the masks were worn during times of celebration, war, sadness and prayer.

Over 130 of them are currently on display at the VMFA and will be there until February 24th. My visit was beautiful and enlightening, to say the least. And you can read all about it on page 12.

So please, join me on my journey to explore the soul and heart of Richmond’s entertainment and artistic expression! It will be well worth your time. And I hope to see you at some of the events!

Ashley

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RiverCity Flow JANUARY 25

Candle in the Pan Early Elton features Jeff Kazee of Southside Johnny and The Asbury Jukes (piano, vocals), Rich Pagano of The Fab Faux (drums and vocals) and John Conte of Southside Johnny and The Asbury Jukes (bass and vocals). The trio of respected artists delivers a historic recreation and interpretation of Elton John’s music.

8 p.m. / $30 (advance), $35 (at the door) / Tin Pan, 8992 Quioccasin Road /TinPanRVA.com

FEBRUARY 8 – 10

JANUARY 20 – 21

Rock & Roll Jubilee!

Jewish Food Festival Come and enjoy two days of Jewish food, music, and shopping at the twelfth annual Richmond Jewish Food Festival.

11:30 – 7:30 both days / Weinstein Jewish Community Center, 5403 Monument Ave. / RichmondJewishFoodFestival.com

JANUARY 25 – MARCH 2

Leading by a Nose

Rostand's masterpiece, Cyrano de Bergerac, tells the true but fictionalized story of the gifted poet, musician, soldier, and duelist who considered himself too ugly to have a chance at love.

Richmond’s own The Taters and friends get together to take you on a musical journey with all your favorite songs from the Titans of Teen Town: Elvis Presley, Buddy Holly, Roy Orbison, The Everly Brothers, and Ricky Nelson.

See website for show times / $30 / The Cultural Arts Center at Glen Allen, 2880 Mountain Road / ArtsGlenAllen.com

FEBRUARY 8 – MARCH 3

Falling Slowly

FEBRUARY 2

Described as one of the most original musicals of our time, Once follows a classic tale of boy-meets-girl but through the eyes of two musicians and the community they bring together on the streets of Dublin. Based on the 2007 movie, winner of the Academy Award for Best Original Song (“Falling Slowly”). Previews February 6 and 7.

Serbian blues guitarist and singer Ana Popovic is back on the road promoting her new album 'Like It On Top', that focuses on empowered, successful, inspiring female role models.

FEBRUARY 12-17

See the website for show times and ticket information/ Swift Creek Mill Theatre, 17401 Jefferson Davis Hwy. Colonial Heights / SwiftCreekMill.com

Blues in the Night

See website for show times and ticket information / The November Theater, 114 W. Broad St., 804-282-2620 / VA-Rep.org

8 p.m. /$25 - $30 / The National, 708 E. Broad St. / TheNationalVA.com

FEBRUARY 2

And All That Jazz Bring your sweetheart and enjoy an intimate evening of Winter Romance with Richmond's own Emme St. James and Her Jazz Gentlemen.

8:00 p.m. / $15 (advance), $20 (at the door) / Tin Pan, 8992 Quioccasin Road / TinPanRVA.com

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Oh Waitress

Inspired by Adrienne Shelly's beloved film, Waitress tells the story of Jenna — a waitress and expert pie maker. Jenna dreams of a way out of her small town and loveless marriage. A baking contest in a nearby county and the town's new doctor may offer her a chance at a fresh start, while her fellow waitresses offer their own recipes for happiness. But Jenna must summon the strength and courage to rebuild her own life.

See website for show times / From $43.50 / Altria Theater, 6 N. Laurel St. / AltriaTheater.com

FEBRUARY 14-17

Glass Pointe

Dreams magically transform into reality with one enchanted night at a ball. Filled with gusty humor and lyrical romance, Malcolm Burn’s Cinderella offers a unique telling of a centuries-old story that still touches our hearts today.

See website for show times / $25 - $125 / Carpenter Theatre, 600 E. Grace St. / DominionEnergyCenter.com

FEBRUARY 15

Sax Appeal Spend an evening with Branford Marsalis, who from his early acclaim as a saxophonist bringing new energy and new audiences to jazz, has refined and expanded his talents and his horizons as a musician, composer, bandleader, and educator.

7:30 p.m. / $45 – adults. See website for additional pricing information / The Modlin Center, Booker Hall of Music, 410 Westhampton Way (University of Richmond), 804-289-8980 / Modlin.Richmond.edu/Events

FEBRUARY 16

Back to the Beatles "1964 the Tribute" focuses on the quintessential moment in history, when The Beatles actually played before a LIVE audience.

6:30 (doors open) / $20 $80 / Beacon Theatre, 401 N. Main St., Hopewell / TheBeaconTheatreVA.com

FEBRUARY 22 – MARCH 3

Cash Only

The Henrico Theatre Company Presents “Ring Of Fire - The Johnny Cash Musical” From the iconic songbook of Johnny Cash comes this unique show that paints a musical portrait of The Man in Black.

See website for show times / $15 / The Cultural Arts Center at Glen Allen, 2880 Mountain Road / ArtsGlenAllen.com

FEBRUARY 23

Shiver In The River Shiver in the River is the Coolest Winter Festival in Virginia! The event will kick off with the Community Clean-up at 10 a.m. followed by the Shiver 5k Walk/Run at 12 p.m. and the James River Jump at 2 p.m. You and your family can participate in as much or as little as you want, and you can form teams challenging your family, friends and coworkers! The Winter Festival will be going on throughout the day with food trucks, beverages, live music, heated tents and a fun atmosphere!

10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. / For registration fees and information, visit website / Historic Tredegar, 500 Tredegar St. / ShiverInTheRiver.com

FEBRUARY 26 – MARCH 3

Virginia Wine Expo Presented by Publix FEBRUARY 22

Tickling the Ivories The Piano Guys’ highly original blend of classical music with pop has created an internet phenomenon. Enjoy an evening with the “Guys” at the Altria.

8 p.m. / $44-$81, VIP tickets $184 / Altria Theater, 6 N. Laurel St./ BroadwayInRichmond.com

It’s a six-day celebration of wine, spirits, cider and local artisan cuisine. Wine dinners, cooking workshops and seminars are held in a variety of venues. The event is capped off with the Walk-Around Grand Tastings on March 2 and 3. The Walk-Around an all-inclusive curated event offering attendees the opportunity to taste hundreds of wines, spirits, ciders, and specialty food. See the website for the full schedule of events.

Each event is individually priced (see website) / Main Street Station (Walk-Around Tastings), 1500 E. Main St. / VirginiaWineExpo.com

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BACKSTAGE with DAVY JONES

LEADING THE FOLLOW-UP:

by Davy Jones

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January / February 2019

W

hat’s even more empowering than major-label backing? The creative power within — and Angelica Garcia is harnessing hers on a follow-up to her 2016 debut, Medicine for Birds.

That album arrived in September of 2016, and it was extraordinary both for the talents she displayed and the fact that she had the support of Warner Bros. Records right out of the gate. It was an impressive introduction, and since then, Garcia has become one of the city’s most talked-about performers. She’s lit up numerous stages with virtuosic solo sets, layering sounds via voice, guitar and a looping machine. She’s sung with Richmond supergroups (as a guest of Piranha Rama and as a member of Mikrowaves), collaborated with the prestigious Spacebomb Records production house and, as recently as last November, made Washington D.C.’s Black Cat roar as the opener for No BS! Brass Band.

Amid all that activity, she’s been taking control of her recording destiny. Instead of deferring to a label’s idea of what her next move should be, she’s co-produced a set of new songs, alongside Bio Ritmo bassist Eddie Prendergast, at local Virginia Moonwalker and La Cocina studios. “I don’t have the same roadmap that I had on the first album,” she said. “It’s a little nerve-wracking traveling without a map, but it’s also exciting, because you see things you weren’t planning on seeing.”

We spoke over the summer about being her own “ringleader,” about the significance of recording to tape, and about the themes conveyed by the lyrics on her new album.

ON MAKING HER

SECOND ALBUM

Were you intentionally trying to break from the way Medicine for Birds was recorded?

What have you taken away from performing with Richmond-based groups like Mikrowaves and Piranha Rama?

Yes, totally. First of all, I had just turned 21 when Medicine for Birds came out… Because I was in the presence of engineers who had been doing this for 20-plus years, and [because] they have their way of doing things and their expertise, I always felt like I should let them decide… I felt like, “I’ll let the experts do their thing.” But what took me a few years to realize is [that] nobody is an expert on your music but you. They’ve been doing this for years and years, but they’ve never had you in the studio before…

I think it’s a matter of sticking up for yourself, and that it’s not rude to ask someone to play a certain way or do a certain thing if it’s your record.

It’s been a really big education. It teaches you a lot about your own limitations and your own strengths, and it also at the same time teaches you about the strengths of your peers… If you want this kind of a really cool dark guitar, ask John Sizemore to play for you. You want a really warm, spooky bass tone? Ask Eddie [Prendergast] to play. Kenneka [Cook] can lock in and sing harmonies with pretty much anybody.

A really huge part of my growth this past year, and the growth of the album, has been hanging out at the Virginia Moonwalker studio with Russell Lacy — being at his studio and watching creation happen, and at the same time picking Russell’s brain and learning about how the console works and how certain instruments work. There’s

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Photo: Joey Wharton

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January / February 2019

much more to making a great album than plugging a cable in and [saying] “Go.”

Davy Jones’ Event Picks

Is that why you decided to record at Virginia Moonwalker?

I immediately fell in love with that place. The thing I love about the way that Russell does stuff at Moonwalker is that it’s performance-based.

He has a tape studio, [so] we can’t just go in there and fix something…

You have to immediately get it right and you have to commit to things.

If you kind of like something, we’ll get rid of it and then it’s gone forever and you do it again.

We had to bring in a computer for my stuff just because of all the parts, [but] I still felt like that mentality was there because Russell was there and because it was Moonwalker and it was very much like “We don’t want this to be the kind of record where you go back and fix things. It should just be right.” Sometimes the right move is the crazy move, but it’s better off that way. The vocals on “Karma the Knife,” the first single that came out, those are actually just done on my laptop… I could [have done] it again in a nice micro-

phone, but I kind of like the crunchiness and the attitude in that performance.

I’ve been trying to keep that spirit throughout recording the record… It adds character. We all get bumps and bruises and stuff. Maybe it’s my audio version of “Well, I didn’t brush my hair today, but here I am.”

February 9: Drive-By Truckers and Lucinda Williams at the National

“Value” seems like an awfully materialistic word to use when talking about an emotionally charged experience like a concert, but the combination of Alabama’s Drive-By Truckers and the Louisiana-born singer-songwriter Lucinda Williams makes Feb. 9 at the National a contender for the best bang for your concert buck all year. Both acts have mastered the art of storytelling sublimation — of making the everyday seem epic via clear, honest lyricism — and both have grown into larger-than-life legends in the world of Americana. Add in a set by Erika Wennerstrom of the Austin-based rock band Heartless Bastards and you have an exceptionally valuable concert ticket. Make sure you snag one.

Where have you been drawing lyrical inspiration?

I wanted to write about my culture and about its representation in a way that’s easy enough for people to understand, but that was still respectful and fun… For example, I have a song that’s coming out on the album called “Jicama.” Jicama is a Mexican root, and a lot of people don’t know what it is. If you try to give it to them they might get grossed out, like “Oh, what’s that? I don’t want to eat that.” But it’s actually just this really neutral tasting root. So the lyrics go, “I see you, but you don’t see me. Jicama, jicama, guava tree. Like you I was born in this country.”

It’s [about] feeling like I’m completely American: I was born here, I’ve lived my whole life here, but I have Mexican and Salvadorian heritage, so I feel like in the fruit stand, I’m the jicama instead of an apple. But just like you, I have every right to be here, because I was born here.

I’m not saying “instead of,” I’m saying “in addition to.” I’m here and my first record was Americana-y. I love that kind of music. I love songwriter music. My stepdad is from Kansas, so I grew up listening to Willie Nelson. I grew up listening to country music. But I also am a Latina girl from L.A., so I have this broad spectrum of influence and appreciation.

January 26-27: Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets™ in Concert at the Altria Theater

How often do you get to see movie magic come to life? Don your Gryffindor scarf and round-frame spectacles and head to the Altria Theater on Jan. 26 or 27 (or both!) to see the Richmond Symphony provide live accompaniment to a high-definition presentation of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, the second installment in the famed film series based on J. K. Rowling’s novels chronicling life in and around Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Music fans have plenty to dig into here: The score was composed by John Williams, the living legend who also bridged the visual and the auditory realms for Star Wars, Jaws, Jurassic Park, and too many others to list here.

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by John Green

T

ake a stroll along Richmond’s Canal Walk and you’ll come upon a small plaza honoring a great

Virginian (Dock Street at 15th Street). The honoree is Henry “Box” Brown — an innovator, activist and slave, who in 1849, managed to mail himself to freedom.

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January / February 2019

Henry Brown was born in 1815 on a plantation in Louisa County, Virginia. Enslaved to John Barret, a kindhearted man who saw value in furnishing his slaves with the basic necessities of life, Brown lived a life that was “comparatively comfortable” when measured against the lives of other slaves. In his autobiography, Narrative of the Life of Henry Box Brown, Brown states, “I really believed that my old master was Almighty God, and that the young master [his son] was Jesus Christ…Our master was uncommonly kind, (for even a slaveholder may be kind) and as he moved about in his dignity he seemed like a god to us.”

Life on the plantation was fair for Brown until, at the age of 15, his kind master fell ill and died. In his will, John Barrett divided the ownership of his property, including Brown’s family, amongst his four sons. Brown was bequeathed to William Barret, the eldest son, and subsequently taken to Richmond to work in a tobacco factory. William Barret was not as kind hearted as his father, however he did honor a special charge that was impressed upon him by his father. Brown states, “I was taken to the city of Richmond, to work in a tobacco manufactory, owned by my old master’s son William, who had received a special charge from his father to take good care of me, and which charge my new master endeavored to perform.”

William Barret took such great care of Brown, furnishing him with a new suit of clothes and money to buy things to send to his mother. “Under the circumstances,” says Brown, “my lot was comparatively easy.”

By the time he was 20, Brown had become an active choir member of First African Baptist Church, rented his own home and married a slave woman named Nancy. Brown even made arrangements with Nancy’s master, Samuel Cottrell, for assurance that he would not sell her to another master. This agreement would cost Brown $50 a year, and would continue for 12 years. Suddenly, while Nancy was pregnant with their fourth child, her master reneged on his agreement with Brown and abruptly sold Nancy and their children to another slaveholder in North Carolina.

“I had left my wife and children at home in the morning as well situated as slaves could be,’’ Brown said. “I was not anticipating their loss, not on account of their owner, for I had long ago learned to look through such hollow pretenses in those who held slaves, but because of the obligation to me for the money I had advanced to him.”

After this treacherous betrayal, Brown suffered in sorrow and disbelief. And by Christmas of 1848, he was determined to become a free man.

With the help of two friends — James C. A. Smith, a free black man, and Samuel A. Smith, a white shop owner with ties to the Pennsylvania Anti-Slavery Society in Philadelphia — Brown began to work on his plan for freedom. And on the morning of March 23, 1849, Henry Brown made his escape. After burning his hand with sulfuric acid to get out of his work for the day, Brown met up with his two friends, who helped him to carefully fold his 5-foot-8-inch, 200-pound frame into a 2-by-3-foot wooden box. Once Brown was inside, his friends hammered a few nails into the box and affixed shipping instructions on the outside saying, “Dry TOP: Lyrics to the song goods. Handle with care. This side up.”

Brown reportedly sang Then, they shipped the box express mail upon his release from the box in which he’d traveled via the Adams Express Company. And from Richmond to Philaoff Henry “Box” Brown went on a 260delphia. mile journey from Richmond, Virginia to MIDDLE: The Resurrecfreedom in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. tion of Henry Box Brown After 27 hours of travel — by way at Philadelphia, a depiction of Brown’s release of wagon, steamboat and train — the after his 27-hour ordeal. wooden box carrying Henry Brown was BOTTOM: The first verdelivered to Philadelphia and received sion of Brown’s autobiby members of the Pennsylvania Anography, Narrative Of ti-Slavery Society. “When they heard The Life of Henry Box Brown, was published that I was alive they soon managed to in Boston in 1849. break open the box,’’ Brown explained.

“And then came my resurrection from the grave of slavery.” And after 33 years of slavery, Henry “Box” Brown emerged a free man.

He was able to live as a free man until his death in 1897. And while it was never possible to reunite with his family, Henry “Box” Brown was able to travel freely around the world, relaying his heroic journey towards freedom and advocating the cause of the emancipation of the slave.

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THE ARTS with ASHLEY

CONGO MASKS MASTERPIECES CENTRAL AFRICA FROM

nd so, the day begins with me standing in the middle of the Virof this mask was still in near pristine condition, and the mouth was ginia Museum of Fine Arts, right next to the legendary Marc so expertly carved that it appeared to have breath. I was stunned.

Leo Felix. Felix, a jovial man who wears a blue leather suit Carved by a tribes most elite members, the masks were worn with matching blue leather hat and shoes, is during times of celebration, war, sadness and the director of the Congo Basin Art History prayer. The creators of the masks were highResearch Center as well as the curator of the ly honored and revered, and the masks were exhibit that I am here to see, Congo Masks: said to be magical and enchanting.

Masterpieces From Central Africa. Felix has This mask, like many others, still appeared been collecting the rare and beautiful masks to have the magic of the ancestors withfrom the Congo region since the 1960s. And in them. Adorned with pigments, feathers, today, more than 130 of them are on display. furs-skins and cowry shells, the masks were Before the viewing begins, Felix makes a carved into wood and served as the most bold statement. elaborate form of expression.

“We are fortunate that in this exhibit, you The VMFA’s brilliant display assisted with will see at least 20 pieces that can be qualitheir visuals by perfectly illuminating the fied as a real masterpiece because they are concavity versus the convexities of each the best of their kind anywhere in the world.” mask, thus highlighting their craftsmanship.

And while to me, all of the masks appear Assisting with the narrative were costumes, to showcase artistic perfection, there is one musical instruments and rare footage of tribin particular that immediately stands out al rituals that showed the masks at work. The — a beautiful, red and white wooden mask, entire exhibition was breathtaking. adorned with a feather collar. This particular piece sits within a glass encasing at the Face Mask with Feathered Collar, second quarter of The exhibit is free for VMFA members, children end of the room. Created sometime during the 20th century, Nyindu culture (Democratic Republic ages 6 and under, state employees and teachthe 1950’s by a member of the Nyindu peo- of the Congo), wood pigment, rooster feathers. Private ers, as well as active-duty military personnel Collection. Photo: Paul Louis. Courtesy of the Virginia ple, who lived among the forests of southern Museum of Fine Arts. and their immediate families; $16 for adults; Umaniema, the mask displays the typical $12 for seniors 65+; and $10 for youth 7-17 and wide-open, toothed mouth and rooster-feather collar. But the collar college students with ID.

The masterpieces in this exhibition—more than 130 striking Congolese masks—form an innovative and visually compelling display of artistry and cultures. Dating from the 17th to the 20th centuries, these works are drawn from the finest and most comprehensive collections in private hands, with more than a dozen showcased in their complete ceremonial ensembles.

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RiverCity 13

BUSINESS WATCH

The Woofy Whisperer

by Derrick Hooley

eople today are busier than ever. Prolonged hours at work often greatly reduce the amount of time that can be spent at home with the family pet. Why not make sure your best friend is taken care of while you are away? Dog daycare may seem like a new business concept to many, but the idea of sending Fido off to play and learn for the day has been growing in popularity since the late 80s. The name is fairly self-explanatory; it’s basically daytime care for dogs much like a regular daycare for children. There are several variants of the concept, including daycare kennels, where the dogs are placed in cages or runs alone all day. Others offer a cage-free environment for part of the day.

Then, there are those, like Woofy Wellness Ranch, that offer your dog the freedom that comes with a complete cage-free environment.

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January / February 2019

Located at 5912 Lewis Road in Sandston, Woofy Wellness Ranch has been in business for two and a half years, according to founder and owner Jeff Kellogg. It offers a patented, full-service, canine wellness system. Their list of services includes veterinary, grooming, spa, boarding and training.

They take care of all of your pet’s wellness needs, but what is really interesting is the behavior-based day camp. Dogs are placed in closely managed play groups, teaching them how to socialize with both other dogs and people. This behavior-based approach is based on the principles of Dog Psychology first popularized by Cesar Millan, the dog trainer and television personality commonly known as the “Dog Whisperer.”

If you’ve never caught the Dog Whisperer or Cesar 911 on TV, it only takes an episode to make you a believer in Cesar’s methods. It is an approach that deals with the psychological state of

the owner as much as the pet, and it is amazing to watch as problem dogs are redeemed, often in minutes. Bill Howard, Woofy’s behaviorist, spent seven months living and training with Linn Boyke, a protege of Cesar’s and the founder of the School of Dog Psychology in Los Angeles, California. This innovative approach to dog behavior makes Woofy a great place to take your dogs, especially if they have a few behavior issues that you would like to work on. Woofy’s highly trained staff monitors ensure that the line between learning and play is seamless.

The benefits of this approach to canine education can carry over into any number of social situations. One Woofy customer, Jennifer, says “I love how they take a holistic approach to the whole dog and work on doggie behavior in addition to playtime.”

In addition to the highest quality care and training, Woofy Wellness Ranch also offers the ultimate in convenience – the Woofy bus. Brightly painted and instantly recognizable, with flexible drop-off and pick-up schedules, the bus offers a safe and enjoyable trip to camp. There are several bus stops in the greater Richmond area, with more opening all the time. Kellogg says they are working with area companies to bring the Woofy Bus to workplaces. Be on the lookout for the Woofy Bus in your area.

With this level of convenience and innovation, you would be hard pressed to find a better option for canine care.

RichmondNavigator.com

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RiverCity 15

tastebudz FLAVOR

with Ashley Jefferson and Steve Cook

If you’re constantly on the lookout for great dining suggestions, then you’ve come to the right place. Ashley and I have been busy consuming massive amounts of exceptional food over the past few weeks. Why? Because we’re dedicated journalists.

ONCE UPON A TIME THERE WAS A TAVERNA: The thing about that I love about Greek Taverna (1903 Staples Mill Road) is that the food is always delicious and the atmosphere always feels like home. I tend to pop in on Wednesdays and order my usual Taverna Pikila, a generous platter of food that includes a veritable smorgasbord of home made spanakopitas, tiropitas, keftedes and sausage. On Wednesdays, all Greek wine is half-off, which is a rather appealing offer that’s hard for me to resist. Though he doesn’t drink (alcohol), my fiancé, John, always enjoys a few items from the Happy Hour menu. And together, we sit in the dinning room as comfortable as if we are in our own home. It’s always a treat when you find great food in a restaurant where the staff knows your name. Greek Taverna is definitely one of those places. (AJ)

LET THEM EAT WAFFLES (GLUTEN FREE): While I don’t have any particular aversion to gluten, I am always interested in checking out gluten-free dishes. I found some that I really love recently at a little spot on E. Main Street (521) called 521 Biscuits and Waffles.

All the biscuits and waffles are gluten free and, based on my sampling, they’re all delicious.

I ordered the Waffle Sampler, which allowed me to taste the four waffle dishes. First, there’s the Double Trouble, featuring cocoa and chocolate chips. The second of the four was their blueberry waffle and the third featured “Grandma’s” cooked apples with a liberal dose of cinnamon. My favorite quarter of the light, fluffy waffle was what they call Monkey Do. It’s a combination of Nutella, sliced bananas and strawberries. I didn’t try the lemon poppyseed waffle. I’ll save that for my next visit. The place is only open from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily (from 9 a.m. on weekends), but it’s worth scheduling your time to fit it in. (SC)

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PUTTING ON THE DOG: We’ll finish up this edition of TasteBudz with a fantastic out-of-town destination suggestion. First, a disclaimer: I’ve known Walter Wilkes, owner/chef at The White Dog Bistro, in Mathews since he was a baby. I’d heard all sorts of good things about his culinary skills in his restaurant. For instance, in 2016, Coastal Virginia magazine presented Walter with their “Best Overall Restaurant Award.

But I had never really sampled his fare until a few weeks ago when four of us visited the restaurant, I had no idea just what a fantastic place this is. First of all, the building is beautiful. It’s a 175-year-old (or so) structure that began as a hotel. It’s also served as a private home and as a bed and breakfast through the years. Today Walter and his lovely wife Amanda run the place as both a restaurant as well as one of the region’s most popular wedding venues. Virginia Living has given Walter top honors as “Best Caterer or Wedding Venue.”

There’s so much to love about The White Dog. From the moment you enter, you’re greeted by a warm welcome and with the warmth of the beautiful, cozy setting.

Take a look at the menu. For a small restaurant, Walter has put together a rather sizable menu featuring seafood, beef, duck, even game. There

I chose the dry-aged rib eye for my entree. Now It was outstanding. The smokiness of the roasted prime rib was a delight. The accompaniments, which were highlighted by the garlic mashed potatoes were also excellent. As someone with a healthy appetite, I was surprised and happy that the portions were generous. Walter says that while a large percentage of his guests are from Richmond or other metro areas, including D.C., he still has to keep the preferences of the locals in mind and according to him, the locals like a bountiful meal. I do too.

I hesitated to order the crab cake because sometimes a talented chef will get too cutesy with the dish and flavor it up so that it doesn’t exactly taste like crab. If I had known that four times the bistro had been honored for serving “the best crab cakes,” I’d have ordered it. I did have a taste from one in our party. It was probably the best crab cake I’d ever had. The White Dog Bistro is a total winner. Check it out at TheWhiteDogBistro.com. (SC)

A NEW RIVER CITY LEGEND: Back in August, Steve, had the chance to sit down and chat with Mark Merrix, owner of Legend’s Grill. Located at 1601 Willow Lawn Drive, the restaurant brought a fresh, new, polished look to the Willow Lawn area. And Mark was very aware of that. “We are not a traditional sports bar,” he said, “but rather a sports-themed restaurant…very family friendly.” Mark said his goal is to offer a place where you can feel comfortable bringing the kids after a little league game and that many of the restaurant’s guests will come in and spend three hours watching a game, or whatever they may want to see on one of the 20 TVs. Well, since I love a good recommendation, I thought it would be best to check out Legend’s Grill myself. And sure enough, I was not disappointed. Legend’s reminded me of an upscale sports bar that I used to visit when I lived in Washington, DC. However, the atmosphere wasn’t as pretentious. The food was hearty and filling and the drink selection was plentiful. I really got a kick out of the speaker boxes that were located at each table and found myself relaxing in one of the booths well after my dinner was complete. I can only imaging how packed the restaurant will be on Game Day. If you haven’t already made your Super Bowl plans, you may want to consider Legend’s Grill! (AJ)

A LEGEND IN ITS TIME: One of our favorite brewing companies is gearing up for a pretty exciting 2019! In February, Legend Brewing Co. (321 West 7th Street) will be releasing their new Dry Hopped Pale Ale. This new brew will pair well with their German burger and fries. And in April, Legend Brewing Co will be celebrating their 25th Anniversary! The brewery has yet to release their celebratory plans. But you can be sure that I’ll be in attendance, with a cold beer in hand! (AJ)

That’s going to do it for this issue.

But we’ll be back.

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RiverCity 17

Happy Hour Guide Legends Grille

Mijas Cantina

This friendly sports-themed restaurant bar is a place where the entire family can come and have a good time.

Celebrate the culture and tastes of Mexico in this cool, colorful cantina offering a very diverse Happy Hour menu virtually all day long.

1601 Willow Lawn Dr. (in Willow Lawn Shopping Center); 804-562-8043; LegendsGrilleVA.com

Monday through Friday 3 to 7 p.m.

Drafts – $1 off

1218 E. Cary St. | 804-447-7106 | MijasCantinaRVA.com

Monday through Friday 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Saturday noon to 8 p.m. (at the bar) Mijas Margaritas – $6

Rail drinks – $3

Classic Daiquiris – $6

Margaritas – $3

Cuban Mojitos – $6

Wines (select) – $4 Appetizers (select) – $4

Signature Sangria – $4.50 House rails – $4 House wines – $4

The Hard Shell – Cary Street

Cervezas (beer- bottled, select) – $4

1411 E. Cary St.; 804-643-2333; TheHardShell.com

Fantastic raw bar, plus traditional seafood and streaks in an intimate upscale tavern atmosphere.

Café Rustika

Monday through Sunday 4 to 7 p.m. (bar and patio)

Authentic German cuisine in a comfortable, cozy and welcoming setting. You must try the brötchen – traditional German rolls.

They boast “the strictest Happy Hour” in town. It’s exactly one hour. There are secret happy hour menu items as well, depending on the chef’s mood, such as mini schnitzels, small sandwiches and charcuterie.

House wines – $4 Well drinks – $4 Domestic beers (select) – $3 Draught beers (rotating selection) – $5 Specialty Cocktails & Mules (rotating selection) – $2 off Parmesan truffle fries – $4 Chesapeake crab dip – $5 Tuna taquitos – $5

414 E. Main St.; 804-225-8811; CafeRustika.com

Tuesday through Friday 5 to 6 p.m.

Wine, house red and white – $1 off Beer – $1 off Kolsch – the real stuff, from Cologne – $2

Cheviche du jour – $5 Shredded beef sliders – $6 Steamed shrimp (1/2 pound) – $8 Chesapeake oysters (dozen) – $10 Crab Legs (1 pound, steamed) – $18

Our Happy Hour Guide is provided as a service to our readers.

This is not an advertisement, nor is any compensation involved.

All happy hour listings are subject to change. Please drink responsibly.

Sweet Sriracha

2301 W. Main St.; 804-358-2514 The emphasis here is on quality, healthy food and drink, all crafted in a relaxing atmosphere.

Monday through Friday 4 to 7 p.m.

Classic Cocktails (including Old Fashioned, Negroni, Margarita, Mojito) – $6 Wine, glass – $2 off Beer, draft – $1 off Rail liquor – $1 off (includes the Wasabi Shot and the House Fire)

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Celebrating the Healthy & Fresh

Flavors of Life!

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804-644-4400

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RiverCity 19

FLAVOR

SUPER BOWL

APPETIZERS A very bried text lead in A very bried text lead in A very bried text lead in A very bried text lead in A very bried text lead in A very bried text lead in A very bried text lead in A very bried text lead in A very bried text lead in

CROCK POT BBQ

INGREDIENTS

1 bone-in Boston Butt pork roast (fat cap on)

1 tablespoon salt

1.5 cups of cider vinegar (white vinegar will work, too)

Red pepper flakes to taste

1/2 tablespoon sugar

PREPARATION 1.) Heat the crock pot: for overnight, set to Low; for 5 hours, set to High.

2.) Dissolve salt and sugar in vinegar.

3.) Place the Boston Butt in the crockpot, fat side up.

4.) Pour the vinegar mixture all over and around the Boston Butt.

Slow Cooker Rotisserie-style BEER CAN CHICKEN If you haven’t heard of beer can chicken - you’re missing out. This recipe is for busybodies to mimic the delicious taste of this famous recipe with a slow cooker. The ingredients are simple and easy to find in your pantry, but the taste is complex and finger licking good.

You can let this beer can chicken simmer all day long, or you can pop it in the slow cooker for a few hours before work or a summer barbeque. No matter what, this dish is sure to be a hit.

INGREDIENTS

8.) Carefully remove the Butt from the crock pot (the pork will be very tender and may break apart).

1 6-lb chicken 2 tablespoons smoked paprika 2 teaspoons salt 2 teaspoons coarse pepper 2 teaspoons dried oregano leaves 2 teaspoons dried thyme leaves 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1/2 teaspoon onion powder 2 tablespoons butter, softened 1 can (16 ounces) dark beer aluminium foil, bunched into 4 balls

9.) Retain the vinegar cooking liquid in a separate bowl, let it cool and then skim oil from the top.

DIRECTIONS

5.) Sprinkle the red pepper flakes on top and all around in the liquid.

6.) Put the lid on the crock pot and leave it alone. Do not open lid until pork is done. Rule of thumb...when the bone can be wiggled and is easy to remove, then the pork is done.

7.) When Butt is fully cooked, use a knife to trim off the fat cap. Don’t worry if some of the fat cuttings fall into the vinegar cooking liquid.

Fat is flavor.

10.) On a plate, use two forks to shred the pork. Place shredded pork back in the crock pot and pour the liquid over it, as much as you want.

This homemade barbecue freezes well. Using a storage container with a tight lid, cover the pork with the vinegar liquid and freeze.

Optional

Stir or whisk together the following ingredients for a quick BBQ sauce: 1 cup ketchup, 1/3 cup Worchestershire Sauce and mustard, garlic powder and cayenne, Texas Pete to taste.

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January / February 2019

1. Place bunched rolls of foil in bottom of 6-quart slow cooker and pour in beer.

2. Pat chicken dry with paper towels. Pull skin gently way from bird.

3. Mix all dry seasonings together.

4. Mix 1/2 teaspoon of seasoning blend into butter.

5. Spread butter mixture under skin of chicken.

6. With clean dry hands, rub remaining spice blend onto chicken.

7. Place chicken on top of foil balls in slow cooker.

9. Cover and cook on high for 4-6 hours, or low on 7-8 hours. Check the temperature — chicken is done when the temperature is 165-170 in the thickest part of the thigh. Continue to cook if needed.

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6229-A River Rd., River Road Shopping Center, Richmond | 804-288-7482 | mosaicedibles.com/restaurant/richmond RichmondNavigator.com

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RiverCity 21

Raising The Bar . . . . .

Winter Cocktails Oh the weather outside is frightful, but the libations are so delightful. For this issue, we used the weather as a good excuse to go in search of some delightful cold weather cocktails. Our photographer Jay Denny and I found the drinks we were looking for, as well as a couple of the city’s most delightful bartenders. Our first stop was the Quirk Hotel.

R

Photo: Jay Denny

achel, a transplant from Oregon “It’s the right whiskey,” she says.

The bartender: Rachel Sargent (bar manager) by way of California, tells us that “The apple brandy offers the right The Bar: Maple & Pine; 201 W. Broad St. (Quirk she made the cross-country trek bespice…tall, warming flavors.” In just Hotel); DestinationHotels.com/Quirk-Hotel cause, “my step-kids live here. We a few moments, I’ll have the oppormoved to be closer to them.” tunity to discover that she’s exactly The morning after she first arright. “I took a lot of liberties with rived in town, Rachel interviewed this recipe,” she adds, “but, at its with the folks who were about to heart, it drinks like a Manhattan.” open Quirk, the popular Downtown The whiskey is George Dickel Rye. boutique hotel. A few weeks later, I had told Borys, during my tasting at she was behind the bar, doing what The Jasper, that the rye was my favorshe’s been doing for about 15 years. ite. It’s a flavorful whiskey that finish“I wouldn’t do anything else,” she es very gently. Rachel also uses Laird’s says regarding her passion for the 7½ year-old Apple Brandy. This is craft.

100% brandy and drinks more like a Even when she’s not behind the Bourbon. The smoke comes from the bar, Rachel says that you may likely Laphroaig mist and the smoked mafind her in front of the bar, where ple syrup. Other ingredients include she enjoys meeting and talking mole bitters, and lemon. The drink, shop with fellow bartenders. She while not overly sweet, does offer a mentions Rogue (formerly Rogue distinctive apple taste. It is, indeed, a Gentleman) and Tiny Victory as two very warming, wintery drink. of her favorite local spots, and then As Rachel mixes the ingredients, adds, “I looove Jasper.”

I ask her what beverage would I Jasper is not her fiancé, but one always find in her refrigerator or of the city’s newest and hottest bars, her liquor cabinet. “I always like owned and operated by two of the to have brandy,” she says, adding, city’s most popular bartenders, Mat“I like to have the same things thias Haglund and Thomas Leggett. Another co-owner, Kevin Liu, also that were in my grandma’s liquor cabinet.” I’ve asked that quesowns Carytown Cupcake, next door to the bar. tion often, but I think this is the first time I’ve gotten that response.

It was at Jasper, in fact, where I had met Rachel during a special tasting When not working or talking shop with other bartenders, Rachel enof some excellent George Dickel whiskeys. I also met Borys Saciuk, that joys walking her dogs around Forest Hill Park. Those dogs, she says, day. Borys is the local rep for the Tennessee-based distillery. He helped “are two beagle mutts…a combination of joy and chaos.” set up our photo shoot and interview with Rachel.

Thanks to Rachel’s professionalism along with her calm, easy, pleasPerhaps the first thing you notice about Rachel is her radiant smile. It’s ant personality, there was no chaos during our visit. Rather, getting to a smile that matches her personality. As she prepares our winter cockknow her and her drink were pure joy. Of the Smoke and Rye cocktail, tail, Rachel proves to be the sort of bartender who can easily engage in Rachel says, “It’s something you can drink outside in the snow or inside a pleasant conversation as she goes about the business of making the by the fire.” This is truly something you can try at home. But for a dose drink. She explains that she has chosen to serve us her Smoke & Rye. of the joy that we experienced, you may want to visit Rachel Sargent at “Why is this a good winter drink?” I ask her.

Maple & Pine in the Quirk Hotel.

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H

Photo: Jay Denny

Photo: Jay Denny

aving recently undergone a little tweaking, PikNik, now known We want everything we do here to have thought, reason, and goodness as Kway Teow, is somewhat returning to its roots as a spot where behind it.” one can enjoy delicious Asian fare along with well-crafted cocktails.

While our Raising the Bar feature is generally more light-hearted, I “We’re going all out with the applaud Shelby for raising our Asian theme,” Shelby Willmon consciousness of realities often tells me. That certainly holds overlooked or swept under the true not just with the cuisine, rug. but also with the atmosphere.

Let me tell you a bit about the Bottom line, “Sweet Sriracha drink. I found Shelby’s Starry is designed to be a cozy Fan Night to be a deliciously relaxneighborhood bar offering ing drink. Ingredients include healthy food in a relaxing atmoDr. Stoner’s Fresh Herb Vodka, sphere.

Royal Dock Navy Strength Gin, “We’ll be using healthy, susyellow Chartreuse(“for a little tainable ingredients in both our magic and an extra kick,” says food and our drinks, says ShelShelby), Purple Haze tea from by. As we speak, small design Carytown Teas and Butterfly elements are being implementpea flower. Shelby chose this ed, with the goal of creating the Asian tea because it offers, as right mood. By the time you she explains, “a colorful change read this, the transition should that turns the drink blue then be complete. slowly pink as it mixes with the As bar manager, Shelby, a naacidity of fresh lemon juice. Yes, tive of Colorado, is putting the spring will come.” Edible gold emphasis on well-thought-out dust creates the sparkly stars cocktails utilizing quality prodeffect. “Take the time to see the ucts “Even if the drinks are crabeauty around you and in the The bartender: Shelby Willmon (bar manager) zy and silly, we’ll be using fresh drink,” she suggests.

The bar: Kway Teow (formerly PikNik), 2301 W. Main St. ingredients,” she says. At times, She tops it off with egg those ingredients may, indeed, white.

Why? “I essentially made The drink: Starry Night be somewhat complex. a fizz with a reverse dry shake,” Take the Starry Night cocktail for she explains. example. The name is inspired by a I saved one more ingredient memory from several years back. “I for last. You see, what makes this was working long hours in a restaucocktail unlike anything that I’ve rant,” Shelby recalls, “and then driving ever had is the inclusion of CBD oil. way out in the country where I was Shelby used a couple drops of blueliving alone.” She says it was a time in berry CBD from a nearby market. her life filled with considerable presWhile I am not recommending sures. “Getting out in the country and the use of CBD, all the research looking up at the star-filled sky was so that I have done reveals that hempcomforting and relaxing.” based CBD is non psychoactive Perhaps with those memories of and hence will not produce a high. a less happy time lingering, she’s usLocal retailers such as Westbury ing this cocktail to call attention to Apothecary and Ellwood Thomphow hard winters can be on many. “I son grocery sell this product. particularly have in mind people in There’s a much more elaborate exrestaurants, working crazy hours,” she planation, but I encourage you to says. “You stay up all night, sleep all do your own research. day, go to work and repeat. It’s so easy As for my visit, the drink, the to get caught up in bad habits.” exotic Asian atmosphere and the Shelby continues, “The lifestyle is conversation with a very thoughtliterally and figuratively killing peoful and caring young professional, ple. It’s sad and people get so stuck. all came together for a wonderfully It can be really hard to get out of. This relaxing experience. drink is a suggestion of better things.

It will hopefully brighten people’s day.

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RiverCity 23

Let’s Get Married!

by Kathleen Whitlow

W

edding season is almost here, which means now is the time for the blushing bride and her groom to select the location of their most memorable occasion.

Central Virginia is home to some of the most beautiful wedding venues in the

state. And, finding the perfect location isn’t easy in Richmond because there are so many options to choose from.

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January / February 2019

Antebellum of New Kent This exclusive event venue — located in the heart of New Kent County, between Richmond and Williamsburg — offers 5,800 square feet of space to accommodate your nuptials and reception. Having just opened in the fall of 2018, Antebellum is brand new to the Richmond area. This southern event venue is perfect for the couple who wants an intimate celebration.

Antebellum can host indoor or outdoor events during any time of year. The event space offers a large covered patio with a fireplace, a beautiful lawn, as well as an indoor ballroom that can fit up 180 guests for a sit-down dinner or 280 guests for a cocktail hour or reception. Lining the ballroom is an upstairs balcony, overlooking the dancefloor, that can be equipped with cocktail tables or used for the DJ. Two staircases lead down into the ballroom and would be great for the bridal party’s entrance into the reception. Tables and chairs are available for use. Antebellum also offers a variety of decorations that can be used for a rental fee. There is a rental room full of décor options to choose from.

The venue works closely with its preferred vendors for catering, but they do allow outside vendors that meet a certain set of guidelines. The inhouse kitchen is available for the catering team to use during the event.

The venue also has a beautiful bridal dressing suite, decorated specifically to appeal to the senses of the bride and her bridal party. In the bridal suite, there are two hair-and-makeup stations with perfect lighting for getting glam. There also is a dressing area for the groom and his groomsmen that is aesthetically tailored to the gentlemen. Each suite comes with a full bath that can be used by the bridal party or groomsmen to get ready the day of the event.

Photos: Library of Congress

Dover Hall Dover Hall is the optimal wedding venue for you if you want an elegant, almost-all-inclusive wedding venue right outside of Richmond. This beautiful English Tudor-inspired estate, located in Manakin-Sabot, is the perfect place to entertain. Dover Hall is opulence at its finest, with every inch of the estate designed precisely, down to the smallest detail.

The estate, which was once home to the Pryor family, boasts nine bedrooms, a library, 30 bathrooms, a ballroom, a pub-style bar, billiards room, front parlor, solarium, summer kitchen and great room. These amenities are now used to host luxurious events. The bride and groom each have their own extensive dressing quarters to use the day of the event — each in a different wing of the house. Both suites were once the dressing area of the initial residents. The

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RiverCity 25

Branch Museum of Architecture and Design

bridal suite is perfect for photos because of the vast amount of beautiful natural light that comes in through the window.

While using these suites, the bride and the groom can enjoy snacks and drinks served to the wedding party as they get ready for the big day. The bridal suite is also available for rental as a honeymoon suite the night of the wedding.

One of the most celebrated amenities of the estate is the billiards room — a trophy room. The room is a conversation piece for guests, as well as a popular place for the groom and his groomsmen to enjoy before the ceremony.

On its grounds, Dover Hall has a reflecting pool, often used as the centerpiece for an outdoor ceremony, and a stone terrace that is often used for cocktail hours or ceremonies. Also available outside are the cobblestone courtyard, the rose garden and a soon-to-be-tented reception space.

While outdoor space is a wonderful option to have on the big day, if weather does not permit, Dover Hall’s ballroom is a prime location for the ceremony as well as the reception. The ballroom can seat up to 150 guests for a sit-down dinner and up to 250 for a cocktail-style reception.

Available for use during the event are table linens, china, glassware, flatware, chairs and table. The estate also has its own in-house executive chef, who provides artisanal-designed menus for each event.

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Monument Avenue…You don’t get much more historical Richmond than that. With sophisticated interior space and a beautiful outdoor garden and courtyard, the Branch Museum of Architecture and Design is a great option for hosting the historical wedding of your dreams. Once the Virginia Center for Architecture Foundation, the Branch Museum is a Tudor-style mansion that provides exhibits to entertain guests. It is the first museum of its kind in the southeast.

Inside, you will find the social gallery, the long gallery and the great hall. The social gallery is designed specifically for entertaining guests and can easily serve as a functional reception space together with the long gallery and great hall — gallery spaces that can be transformed for an indoor reception.

The garden behind the museum is surrounded by stone walls that give an old-world feel to the courtyard. This space is ideal for holding the ceremony and can be set up in a variety of ways. The stairs, leading up to the mansion, provide a perfect spot for the bride and groom to exchange their vows.

As a wedding space, the Branch Museum includes the use of the three galleries, library, terrace and gardens, as well as tables and chairs.

Couples that use the venue for their ceremony have access to the parlor rooms located upstairs to get ready before the “I do’s” begin. The Branch Museum does work with a preferred list of caterers, which includes a Sharper Palate, Mosaic and Groovin-Gourmet. They also work with a preferred list of lighting companies.

Wisteria Farms If you are looking for the Southern charm wedding venue of your dreams, look no further. Wisteria Farms on Ivey Mill is situated on 190 acres right outside of Richmond in Chesterfield County. The farm is owned by the Gordon family, and it is also their home. The property boasts country meadows, formal Italianate gardens, expansive fields, as well as a federal-style home and barn.

Located behind the Gordon’s home, the Italianate garden is perfect for an outdoor ceremony that brides only dream of. The garden offers a reflecting pool and fountain as the centerpiece for the nuptials. If weather doesn’t permit, there is also the elegant finished brick barn.

The grounds feature a number of spaces that can be considered for a memorable reception. The finished barn is perfect for a cocktail hour.

The barn allows you to open the former stables to use as seated areas for guests, as well as an attractive seating area equipped with a cozy fireplace. There is also an inviting patio outside that creates an intimate feel for the open reception and cocktail hour. The meadow behind the barn is perfect for a tented reception that you can make all your own.

The bridal party has access to the upstairs barn space — fully furnished and equipped with a gorgeous kitchen and striking bathroom — for the

day, prior to the ceremony. The open space has ideal lighting for photos, as well as hair and makeup. Not to mention that both ends of the upstairs have balconies which also serve as great backdrops for pictures.

Wisteria Farms does have preferred vendors that they work with, but they are open to other vendors that couples may want to use for the big day. Included in the use of the property for your wedding day is the barn for your rehearsal dinner.

The southern charm of this venue can be found on every inch of the property — not to mention the unrivaled hospitality of the owners.

These are a few of my favorite finds. Now, let’s get married!

Please refer to the directory below for additional information on the wedding venues in this article.

Antebellum – 4370 N. Courthouse Road, Providence Forge; 804-519-3245; AntebellumOfNewKent.com Branch Museum – 2501 Monument Ave.; 804-644-3041; BranchMuseum.org Dover Hall – 1500 Manakin Road, Manakin-Sabot; 804-784-6051; DoverHall.com Wisteria on Ivey – 11825 Ivey Mill Road, Chesterfield; 804-920-9797; WisteriaonIvey

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Photo courtesy: Pexels

Do You Have an Exit Plan?

Keys to Building a Sellable Business

by Michael Mitchell

W

hat are your business goals for 2019? If you’re like most business owners, you have a profit goal you want to hit and a top line revenue number that’s important to you. While those goals are important, there is another objective that may have an even bigger payoff – building a sellable business. With all the goals owners have, it’s a bit shocking to note that only 17% of business owners we have surveyed have a written plan that describes how, when, and to whom they will leave their businesses.

But what if you don’t want to sell? That’s irrelevant. Sooner or later, every business owner will exit their business. If your business has truly lasting value, you have options. You can pass it on through family succession planning, an employee buyout, or a sale on the open market. The key is to have a business that many buyers will want to own.

Sadly, 70% of all businesses never sell. The owners simply close the doors and walk away because while they were working hard in their business, they were working on the wrong things.

How to Double the value of your business We at Business Research Group have found 8 key Value Builder factors that drive the value of your business.

1. Financial Performance: your history of producing revenue and profit combined with the professionalism of your record keeping.

2. Growth Potential: your likelihood to grow your business in the future.

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3. The Switzerland Structure: how dependent your business is on any one employee, customer or supplier.

4. The Valuation Teeter Totter: whether your business is a cash suck or a cash spigot.

5. The Hierarchy of Recurring Revenue: the proportion and quality of automatic, annuity-based revenue you collect each month.

6. The Monopoly Control: how well differentiated your business is from competitors in your industry.

7. Customer Satisfaction: the likelihood that your customers will re-purchase and refer business to you.

8. Hub & Spoke: how your business would perform if you were unexpectedly unable to work for a period of three months.

To find out how you’re performing on the eight key drivers of company value and start your journey to increasing the value of your largest asset, get your Value Builder Score now by contacting Business Research Group.

Michael Mitchell is the President of Business Research Group, a brokerage firm that specializes in providing businesses with intermediary services and representation throughout the merger, acquisition, and divestiture process. For more information, visit BRGBrokers.com or phone 804-381-6667

Come! Join the Poe Folks You’re always welcome at Poe’s Pub Richmond’s true neighborhood hangout.

Daily Specials and Happy Hou r

Great Food | Refreshing Libations | Lots of Fun 2706 E. Main Street (at the foot of beautiful Libby Hill Park)

648-2120 • Like Us On Facebook

Great Beer. Great Food. Great Views.

legend.

MORE THAN RiverCity

Join us every Sunday for Brunch starting at 11AM with a great brunch menu. Jazz Brunch 1st Sunday of every month.

restaurant and bar hours:

Mon.–Thu. 11:30 am–11 pm | Fri.–Sat. 11:30 am–Midnight | Sun. 11 am–10 pm

Bluegrass/Americana Music Every Sunday Night!

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