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NEW ERA RVA A ‘blackprint’ for Richmond’s most vulnerable communities
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fter several years of working in the nonprofit sector, Michael Donovan Williams (also known as Mike Kemetic) wanted to work with marginalized communities in a more sustainable way. “Some organizations come in and they help for a little while, do some great work, but when they leave, the progress made does not continue,” he says. In August, Williams and James Dangle, a musician he has worked with for many years, co-founded New Era RVA to address the needs of six public housing communities in Richmond — Afton, Gilpin, Mosby, Creighton, Fairfield and Hillside Courts. The first community they are working with is Hillside. An affiliate of New Era Detroit, which was established in 2014, New Era RVA volunteers engage with people using a “blackprint” that models the organization’s seven programs to help people of all ages, Williams says. As of October, there were 11
Michael Donovan mentoring organization CommuNew Era affiliate sites in the United Williams (center) with States, one in Nigeria and another New Era RVA members nity 50/50 to provide guidance to (from left) James school-age residents. forming in the United Kingdom. Dangle, Rosetta, “The idea is for the Black com- Shaddai R, M3, Shifu Other initiatives include estabmunity to empower itself, rather Tracy, Likwai and Zbey lishing safe zones to engage busithan looking outward,” he says. nesses to take an active role in the “For us to build resilience and resistance community to help people in distress; an to challenges we face constantly.” eldercare initiative; a “Buy Black” program; “Hood to Hood” is an effort aimed at and a database to connect residents with gathering donations to meet community needed resources. needs and provide resources and supplies. “A lot of times a group comes into a community to do a project without asking what A self-policing program is in the works to mediate, navigate conflicts and minimize is needed,” Williams says. “We are coming in the need for calling the police. Youth to directly engage with the community — martial arts and self-defense programs figure out what their needs are and build will start this winter, and Donovan says up these programs with the people who the organization has partnered with the live there.” —Holly Rodriguez
Socially Distant Santa
Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s will check temperatures before visitors see Santa.
PLEXIGLASS, MASKS AND VIRTUAL VISITS ARE THE NEW NORM THIS HOLIDAY SEASON Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus — even in a pandemic. A Richmond tradition since 1936, Legendary Santa will return to the Children’s Museum of Richmond this year, offering visits during reserved time slots. Santa and the Snow Queen will be seated behind plexiglass, and visitors will sit on a bench instead of Santa’s lap. Masks are required for anyone 5 or older but can be removed briefly for photos. The Children’s Museum has been
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working hard to make sure the experience is safe for all, says Danielle Ripperton, the museum’s executive director. “And we have to make sure that Santa, at his age, is OK.” Tickets sold out within hours in early November, surprising museum staff. “We didn’t know with the pandemic if people would want to come or not,” Ripperton says. Legendary Santa is also offering 10-minute virtual visits, and those slots have also filled up quickly (childrensmuseu-
mofrichmond.org/legendary-santa). Legendary Santa saw about 25,000 visitors last year, while the maximum number will be closer to 13,000 this year, including virtual visitors. There is a fee to see Legendary Santa: $30 for in-person visits for up to six family members, and $25 for virtual visits. Ripperton says Legendary Santa, which brings in additional people to visit the museum and shop in its gift shop, has always been an important revenue generator. The fee will help to make up for lost revenue and also to pay for safety measures. Around town, Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s will both offer contactless Santa visits through Dec. 24,
with online reservations required (basspro.com/shop/en/santas-wonderland). Visitors will have their temperatures checked and will talk to Santa through a “Magic Santa Shield” that will be cleaned between each guest by “Santa’s Sanitation Squad,” aka elves. At Short Pump Town Center, Santa arrives on Nov. 27 for socially distanced visits, says spokesperson Rachel Willis by email. “Children will not be permitted to sit on Santa’s lap, and there will be a 6-foot distance between Santa and his guests,” she says. No appointments are necessary. The mall is also offering virtual visits with Santa, with reservations required (shortpumptowncenter.com).
—Jessica Ronky Haddad
FROM TOP: JAY PAUL; COURTESY BASS PRO SHOPS AND CABALEA’S
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LIVING Manassas National Battlefield Park preserves the site of two major Civil War battles.
TRAVEL
BATTLE PLAN Mapping out a visit to Manassas By Carla Young Harrington
HISTORIC HILLS The First Battle of Manassas, also known as the First Battle of Bull Run, marked the first major land battle of the Civil War. More than 800 soldiers lost their lives there — and both sides lost their illusions of a swift victory ending the conflict. A year later the armies returned for a second battle. Today, 5,000 acres of hills, meadows and ponds are protected by the National Park Service and Manassas Battlefield Trust (manassasbattlefield.org). My husband and I started our experience at the Manassas National Battlefield Park visitor center to learn what life was like for local families, enslaved people and soldiers. For
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children, there are activities to complete to earn a Junior Ranger badge. Visitors can also watch an acclaimed film, peruse exhibits and browse a bookstore. Outside, a pleasant walking loop crosses several points of interest, including the grave of an elderly widow believed to be the war’s first civilian casualty. Check the national park website for updates on pandemic guidelines and openings or closures. In all, there are 40 miles of trails throughout the park. Horse owners can even BYOE (bring your own equine) on some of them. Driving maps are also available. The American Battlefield Trust provides a guide, the Bull Run Battle App (battlefields.org/visit/ mobile-apps/bull-run-battle-app).
DOWNTOWN PLEASURES Six miles away is Manassas city, established after the war. We experienced a bit of its past in Historic Manassas (visitmanassas.org), a quaint downtown destination for dining, shopping and sightseeing. Check out the Visitor Center in the train depot on West Street and, next door, the railroad heritage gallery. Outside the depot, passengers await trains to Washington, D.C., and points beyond. For more local history visit the Manassas Museum (manassasmuseum.org) across the street. To check on seasonal events, text HOLIDAY to 888-777.
Historic downtown Manassas
FROM TOP: COURTESY VISIT VIRGINIA; COURTESY CITY OF MANASSAS
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orthern Virginia’s Piedmont is richly preserved at Manassas National Battlefield Park. A scene of intense fighting during the Civil War, the park’s peaceful hills and distant mountain views today attract hikers, dog walkers and visitors drawn to its pivotal role in American history. While modern conveniences are nearby, consider combining your visit with a drive to downtown Manassas or a lively venue on its outskirts.
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DANNY ROBINSON
NEW VIRGINIA GENERAL ASSEMBLY BUILDING The 15-story office building at Ninth and Broad streets broke ground in 2017, and as of October, the steelwork was set for completion before 2021 begins. Most of the interior should be done by the end of 2021, with move-in the following year, providing state representatives and staff with expansive, modern office space in a 400,000-square-foot structure. The new building includes a preserved, circa-1912 facade, and the lower four floors include public spaces, meeting spaces, committee rooms and a cafeteria. —TG
Named chief creative officer for the Martin Agency in August, Robinson, the first Black person to hold that title at Martin, didn’t have the luxury of easing into his new role. “Clients have always needed their partners to be nimbler and quicker,” says Robinson, who’s been with the Richmond-based company since 2004. “The pandemic has just accelerated the need.” He notes that they’ve produced work remotely for over 90% of their clients, including DoorDash, Ritz, UPS and Oreo. “I’m lucky to be able to say we want to do more of what we’ve been doing, just faster.” Outside of work, Robinson is the board chair for FeedMore. —CA
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: COURTESY VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF GENERAL SERVICES; COURTESY THE MARTIN AGENCY; BASKERVILL; COURTESY DOMINION ENERGY
ROBERT BLUE
In October, 15-year Dominion Energy veteran Robert Blue moved into a new role as the company’s president and CEO. Though still reporting to longtime leader Thomas Farrell — now the company’s executive chair — Blue has emerged as the heir apparent. A onetime staffer for former Gov. Mark Warner, Blue will have to steer Dominion through the new realities of a General Assembly controlled by Democrats and growing complaints about the utility’s political influence. This was a year of change for Dominion, which imploded its old downtown office tower, canceled the Atlantic Coast Pipeline project, sold its gas transmission and storage divisions, and completed an offshore wind turbine pilot project that sets the stage for a planned 2.6-gigawatt wind farm. —CA
U.S. HIGHWAY 1 CORRIDOR The 8.5-mile stretch of Jefferson Davis Highway just south of Richmond city limits is the target of an ambitious reimagining under a Chesterfield County revitalization effort. The Northern Jefferson Davis Special Area Plan, adopted by the county in 2018, includes designs to enhance gateway areas, improve pedestrian and cycling access, and embellish recreation points. Novel efforts in the works include constructing affordable housing on the site of the old Colbrook Motel, a historic spot that provided a safe place for African Americans as they traveled the Jim Crow South. The Better Housing Coalition envisions a 166-unit Colbrook Community on the site. —TG
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MA CONG
When he’s choreographing a dance, Ma Cong, 42, can be inspired by a painting, a place, even a story told by a friend. But normally, says the incoming associate director of Richmond Ballet, he lets the music move him. His “Ershter Vals” has been a signature piece for the Richmond Ballet since 2009, and now Cong will work alongside founding artistic director Stoner Winslett to shape the company’s future as its new associate artistic director. “The art must move forward,” the Chinese-born teacher and former dancer says of producing ballet in the age of COVID-19. “Art is like food for people’s souls and without that food, we’re all going to starve.” —DH
THE HILL STANDARD Anchored by the area’s second Veil Brewing location — which has its own Airbnb — The Hill Standard, 4920 Forest Hill Ave., is one of Richmond’s most anticipated projects. Pepe’s restaurant, Stella’s Grocery and Blanchard’s Coffee will all call the space home, along with a sweet addition: Charm School ice cream. Introducing a soft-serve-focused shop with a walk-up window, coowner Meryl Hillerson says, “We’re the cherry on top of The Hill sundae.” —EM
TOP LEFT: COURTESY RICHMOND BALLET; TOP RIGHT: JUSTIN VAUGHAN; BOTTOM: JAY PAUL
THE JACKSON WARD COLLECTIVE
In late summer, Rasheeda Creighton of 3Fifty Group; Kelli Lemon, owner of Urban Hang Suite; and Melody Short, co-owner of Richmond Night Market, launched The Jackson Ward Collective, a social enterprise of more than 150 Black business owners and members. Lemon says the name pays homage to the birthplace of Black capitalism that was once called “Black Wall Street.” The organization provides members with access to a network of resources. “Black entrepreneurs are struggling in a lot of different ways. ... Our whole vision is to help [them] learn, grow and, most importantly, own,” Lemon says. —EM
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Richmond - West End 2551 Homeview Drive 804-527-2886
www.brucessuperbody.com
Richmond - Southside 11200 Midlothian Turnpike 804-794-2639
Williamsburg 5521 Richmond Road 757-220-3655
This Season May the Meaning of Christmas be Deeper, Its Friendships Stronger and its Hopes Brighter.
MORE THAN
135 RECEPTION SITES
Loving
EMBR ACE THREE SMALL WEDDINGS WITH BIG HEART
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BEST OF THE BEST OUR NINTH ANNUAL A-LIST SURVEY RESULTS | P. 31
MINI MATRIMONY THE MICROWEDDING TREND HITS RVA | P. 44
winter/spring 2021
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| EX PERT |
Rising to the Occasion THE PANDEMIC FORCES COUPLES AND THE WEDDING INDUSTRY TO ADAPT AND INNOVATE By PAULA PETERS CHAMBERS
AS A VETERAN of wedding and special event planning, Meghan Ely, founder and president of OFD Consulting, now helps vendors throughout the wedding industry promote and market their services. She’s seen many developments over her nearly two decades in the business but says the coronavirus pandemic has brought surprising — and beneficial — developments. “I’m certainly not happy [with the pandemic], but we are seeing people rise to the occasion,” she says. “Innovation is coming out of this that I wouldn’t have seen prior. People are reinventing themselves and finding ways to adapt.” Ely recently shared her thoughts on the current state of weddings and what’s on the horizon.
“There are plenty of people getting married right now with microweddings, which are spectacular in their own way.” MEGHAN ELY
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Wedding and event-planning expert Meghan Ely
RICHMOND BRIDE: How are weddings happening now? MEGHAN ELY: Wedding professionals are rethinking layouts — the cocktail hour, the ceremony, the reception and everything in between. Instead of a traditional center aisle, we’re seeing a circular setup with chairs farther apart, but sometimes placed in family groups with different furniture. At the reception, maybe there are multiple smaller floors for dancing and tables spread farther apart — certainly no
more long family-style tables. People are also being mindful of signage, to direct traffic flow and to point people to hand-sanitizing stations. And we hope everyone is wearing their masks when they’re not eating. RB: Is a destination wedding possible? ELY: Destination weddings are still happening, but they’re being reimagined, and more often than not they happen within driving distance, usually around 100 miles from
home. Prior to the pandemic, one-quarter of U.S. weddings were destination; now there are very few international locations where Americans can go. For couples who want to tie the knot sooner rather than later, there are still places where you can elope. A virtual wedding is an easier answer, but check the law, because in most localities, you can’t be married by an officiant who’s not with you. With virtual, you have livestreaming capabilities so you can have guests from all
Melody Smith Portrait
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| CA LENDA R |
Wedding Events Through 12/24
Lustre Holiday Sale Find select pieces at up to 50% off during Lustre by Adolf’s holiday event. This is an opportunity to scout an engagement ring or pick up a piece for your bridal ensemble. 1539 N. Parham Road. 804285-3671 or havelustre.com.
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Lecil Henderson and D.M. Kordansky Trunk Show Check out the latest jewelry designs from North Carolinabased The Henderson Collection by Lecil and Pennsylvania-based D.M. Kordansky. Whether it’s a diamond-and-matte-yellowgold bracelet or diamond-andwhite-gold chandelier earrings, find the perfect accessories to complement your wedding ensemble. 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. 1539 N. Parham Road. 804285-3671 or havelustre.com.
12/18-1/3
Blue Willow Bride by Anne Barge Trunk Show For couture dresses at a more moderate price point, check out the Blue Willow Bride by Anne Barge designs at Annalise Bridal Boutique. 1309 E. Main St. 804-649-3000 or annalisebridal.com.
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Lex’s of Carytown Accessories Sale From Christmas through the end of January, receive 25% off all wedding accessories, including veils, jewelry, shoes and belts, when you purchase a wedding gown at Lex’s of Carytown. 3020
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UPCOMING TRUNK SHOWS AND PLANNING EXPOS | By NICOLE COHEN
W. Cary St. 804-355-5425 or lexsofcarytown.com.
2/21
Fashion on the Run Join Tiffanys Bridal for an exclusive fashion show that pairs gorgeous gowns with the romance of Goochland’s The Estate at River Run. Check out the luxurious Georgian Revival mansion turned event venue while you chat with wedding experts, enjoy refreshments and get inspired by designer looks for the big day. Participants receive a swag bag and are entered to win a door prize, including the grand prize of a Jasmine Bridal gown. Social distancing will be practiced, so tickets are limited. The inclement weather date is Feb. 28. 3 to 5 p.m. $28. 2421 River Road West, Maidens. 804-273-6303 or tiffanysbridal. com; theestateatriverrun.com.
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The Richmond Greater Virginia Bridal Show Get tips and ideas for planning your perfect day at this wedding show. Enjoy a meet and greet with local wedding professionals, view the designer fashion show and take part in multiple giveaway opportunities. 1 to 5 p.m. $10 (at the door only). Richmond Raceway Complex Old Dominion Expo Center, 600 E. Laburnum Ave. vabridemagazine.com/ richmond-bridal-showfebruary-28-2021.
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ALYSSA KRISTIN TRUNK SHOW This two-week event at Annalise Bridal Boutique showcases the brand new 2021 Alyssa Kristin collection. 1309 E. Main St. 804-649-3000 or annalisebridal.com.
your wedding vision to life inside historic Main Street Station at 1500 E. Main St. VIP ticket holders receive a swag bag and unique offers from several show exhibitors. 12:30 to 4 p.m. (Doors open at 11 a.m. for early admission ticket holders.) $15 to $32. richmondweddings. com/wedding-show.
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Richmond Weddings Winter Show
5/16
Chat with vendors and wedding professionals ready to bring
Plan your wedding with local wedding pros during
T. Rose Bridal Show
this expo at the Delta Hotel Richmond Downtown, 555 E. Canal St. Multiple giveaway opportunities include the grand prize of a honeymoon. Noon to 3 p.m. $10 online, $15 in-person. trosebridalshows. com/bridal-shows. IN CONSIDERATION OF THE CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC’S IMPACT ON LARGE GATHERINGS, PLEASE CHECK INDIVIDUAL WEBSITES FOR EVENT UPDATES.
Third West Studio
11/13/20 11:50 AM
The Tuckahoe Woman’s Club Since 1936
Weddings • Corporate Events • Fundraisers
Please consider using The Tuckahoe Woman’s Club for your next event. For more information call
Debbie Niemeyer Club Manager 804-257-7251 ext. 403
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Less is More WIT H PANDEMIC REST RICT IO NS , M ICROWEDDIN G S AND M INIM O ON S ARE O N T HE RIS E
BY DAN REEVES
ACCORDING TO THE KNOT’S 2019 Real Weddings Study, the average cost for a wedding in Virginia is $33,300 — and that’s just dollars and cents. Take into account the time, energy and emotional stress of scouting the ideal location, agreeing on a caterer, alcohol, music, photography, and of course, the guest list and ensuing arguments as friendships are measured and behavioral quirks of uncles and cousins are hashed over. Now, factor in the uncertainty, fear and restrictions of COVID-19. Cancelations and postponements have been frequent in 2020, and whether out of necessity or choice, the betrothed are planning smaller, more intimate celebrations. Perhaps the necessity of a smaller wedding is proving that there is value in intimacy. Your special day should be less about production and more about quality and surrounding yourself with those who are most important to you. 44
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HILLARY & JOEY
Rustic Fairytale AUG. 1, 2020 Photos by PEYTON CURRY
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atives of the greater Richmond area, Hillary Carr and Joey Anderson met through mutual friends in 2010. When Hillary moved back to Richmond after college, she and Joey reconnected, dating for three years before getting engaged in 2019. Hillary, the owner of custom floral design and event styling company Vessel & Stem, was dealing with the impacts of the pandemic daily in her business. She and Joey decided to forgo a large wedding and officially tied the knot in June at Chesterfield General District Court, planning an intimate outdoor celebration at Hillary’s family home in early August. Using her parents’ 19th-century farmhouse as a backdrop, Hillary and her mother, Melissa Carr, the owner of Gather in Midlothian, styled the evening event by curating vintage decor from the store and mixing in unique family heirlooms. Catered by New American restaurant Saison, the evening’s menu featured savory and spicy delights including Moroccan spiced chicken, curried monkfish with rice, smoked jalapeño chicken wings, shishito peppers, tomato salad with watermelon, and cast-iron skillet cornbread. Desserts from Fat Rabbit Cakes included an almond cake with almond buttercream icing and a vanilla cake with blood-orange curd. The bride’s favorite moment of the day was the couple’s exchange of their wedding vows in front of their beloved families. “We both spoke for about three minutes each and expressed really raw, intimate feelings,” she says. “I don’t know if we would have been comfortable saying all of that if we had done a larger wedding, so it was a very special moment for everyone.”
BE OUR GUEST: Hillary and her mother focused on incorporating unique details, such as vintage farmhouse bud vases paired with gold-rimmed antique glasses, into the table settings. Day-of coordinator Sabrina Hambrick added fresh peaches for a fun pop of color.
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BITS AND BAUBLES: A friend at Noted Calligraphy created the couple’s vow books and place cards. Hillary’s wedges are Lucky Brand, and her French hair comb is by Mignonne Handmade. Her engagement ring is by Emily Warden Designs, and her earrings and heirloom wedding band were gifts from her parents.
(Opposite page) RUSTIC BACKDROP: Hillary and Joey took post-ceremony photos around her parents’ 10-acre hay farm. Her ethereal, flowy gown is from BHLDN, and the groom’s khaki suit is from Murano.
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(Opposite page) FLOWER CHILD: Hillary’s colleague, florist Amanda Burnette, sourced seasonal flowers from local growers. The bride’s bouquet included ranunculus, sea oats, distant drums garden roses, phlox and strawflower.
(Clockwise from top) HAPPY FAMILY: Hillary’s parents, grandparents and brothers enjoyed the intimate ceremony.
PICTURE PERFECT: The couple had a Polaroid camera for guests to take photos and write an accompanying message in a guest book. They also set out two traditional film cameras and several disposable cameras.
A SENTIMENTAL SPOT: The couple said their vows underneath Hillary’s favorite place on her parents’ property, a towering mulberry tree. “When I was growing up, I always thought it would be nice to get married under the mulberry tree one day, and we did,” she says.
COOPED UP: Hillary’s mother strung up a glittery letter banner spelling the bride and groom’s names on an old chicken coop barn that has been on the property for years.
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KENDRA & MARLON
Goin’ to the Chapel MAY 23, 2020 Photos by KIMIE JAMES/IYQ PHOTOGRAPHY
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fter knowing each other for nearly a decade, Kendra Arnold and Marlon White began their romantic relationship in 2018. On Kendra’s birthday the following year, Marlon gifted her with a surprise hotel stay, breakfast in bed and a trip to the nail salon before ending the day with a heartfelt proposal at Maymont that included live musicians and Kendra’s closest friends and family. The couple originally planned an August 2020 wedding, but when the pandemic struck in March, they decided to bump up their date and have a small springtime ceremony at their church, Speaking Spirit Ministries, with only their parents in attendance. “We didn’t want to wait to start our new lives together,” Kendra says. To ensure no one was left out, the couple hired a videographer to capture the ceremony and create a multipart video presentation, featuring an animated introduction and a performance by harpist Shelley Greene, to share with friends and family. In lieu of a formal reception, caterer Montell Jones packaged gourmet meals for guests to take home: crab-stuffed salmon with asparagus, macaroni and cheese, Caesar salad and an assorted fruit dessert. When the newlyweds arrived home after the ceremony, they were surprised to find that a cousin of Marlon’s had prepared a beautifully set table, complete with candles, roses and sparkling cider, for a romantic dinner. Marlon and Kendra particularly enjoyed a touching moment during their ceremony in which they presented their parents with special gifts to thank them for their unending love and support. “My mom doesn’t cry easily, and she boo-hooed,” Marlon says. “It was a very meaningful moment for us.”
SHARP-DRESSED MAN: Marlon’s black suit from Men’s Wearhouse had a slight purple sheen, which reminded the comic book-loving groom of Batman’s nemesis The Joker. His tie was by Burberry.
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TEARJERKER: Marlon presented his mother with a vase of yellow roses as a gift during the ceremony.
(Opposite page) LET THERE BE LIGHT: The chapel’s breathtaking stainedglass windows served as the perfect photo backdrop. “Usually the chapel has the windows covered with blinds, so we requested the blinds be removed for our wedding,” Marlon says.
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CATERER: Montell Jones CAKE: Carlos Montague
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KATHRYN & CHRIS
Backyard Brunch JUNE 28, 2020 Photos by KAREN GAGE PHOTOGRAPHY
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fter meeting online in 2019, it didn’t take long for Kathryn Corbett and Chris Rhoden to fall in love. The coronavirus pandemic foiled Chris’ plan to propose to Kathryn in March at Carytown’s Can Can Brasserie, the location of their first date. Instead, he popped the question at the couple’s Short Pump home over brunch with Kathryn’s daughters, Lindsay and Allison Corbett. Chris and Kathryn so enjoy brunch that they decided to have a brunch-themed, intimate outdoor wedding at their home. The couple enlisted the talents of friends and family members to host a colorful DIY backyard celebration: A former coworker of Kathryn’s built their ceremony arch, a friend who works at the Richmond Symphony coordinated a three-piece string ensemble, and a friend’s mother — a master gardener and floral arts instructor at The Cultural Arts Center at Glen Allen — arranged the flowers. After a small ceremony, the couple and their guests enjoyed an array of food platters that included a mixed summer salad with grilled watermelon, Hanover tomato quiche with bacon jam, smoked salmon with pickled vegetables, and jalapeño cornbread muffins. “We are huge foodies, so the menu was really important to us,” Kathryn says. “Everything was delicious, and the presentation was beautiful.” Family is everything for the happy couple, so they were overjoyed to involve their adult children in the ceremony. Chris’ son attended virtually via webcam, and Kathryn’s daughters served as bridesmaids. “My oldest daughter gave a toast, and there wasn't a dry eye in the house,” Kathryn says. “She's a little bit on the shy side, but she nailed it. I cry every time I watch the recording.”
PRETTY IN PINK: Kathryn’s engagement ring from William Jeffrey’s Jewelers was engraved with a special message: faith, hope and love. Photographer Karen Gage provided the velvet box for this photo.
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FLORAL DREAMS: Kathryn’s handmade bouquet featured peonies, hydrangea, roses and white stock. A ribbon with a special charm was tied around the stems.
(Opposite page) GRAND DISPLAY: The couple’s florist, Sarah Peters, was assisted by a friend from the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts in putting together the large arrangements on either side of the ceremony archway, which was custom-built by a former colleague of Kathryn’s.
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FLORIST: Sarah Peters CATERER: Kyle Midgett, Compass Group CAKE: Fat Rabbit Cakes HAIR: Charity Hundley, Ceco Studio
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(Left, from top) SWEET CITRUS: After enjoying cantaloupe sangria at a local restaurant, the couple decided to incorporate bright tones of orange and pink into their wedding color scheme. Their Fat Rabbit wedding cake — an olive oil cake with blood-orange curd — reflected this choice in both color and flavor. GIRL POWER: Kathryn’s daughters wore bridesmaid dresses from Lulus. Kathryn’s fitted gown with off-the-shoulder lace
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sleeves was purchased at Tiffanys Bridal.
Kathryn’s brother served as the ceremony officiant.
GOTTA HAVE THAT FUNK: Chris wanted something “funky” as his boutonniere flower, so the couple chose a bright orange button mum with Thai basil. His light-blue suit and matching orange tie are from Dillard’s.
GOURMET MUNCHIES: A smoked-salmon platter included caper aioli, pickled deviled eggs, pickled onions, radishes, olives and other tasty treats.
(Above, from top) HUSBAND AND WIFE: Friends of the couple made the colorful ribbon streamers that guests waved as the newlyweds walked down the aisle.
(Opposite page) WORK OF ART: Kathryn’s friend Charity Hundley styled her hair, and Kathryn’s oldest daughter did her makeup. The background of the photo is a painting that hangs in the couple’s bedroom.
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SP EC I AL ADV E RT I SI N G SECTI O N
chairs, flatware, bone china and sparkling crystal. Call 804.775.2355 for more information about our gorgeous venue! www.jmballrooms.com.
LINDEN ROW INN With its rich history of love and romance, Linden Row Inn offers an idyllic setting for weddings, receptions, elopements, bridal showers, and rehearsal dinners. Whether you are looking for a relaxing garden atmosphere in the heart of Downtown Richmond, or a historic banquet space, the Linden Row Inn is the perfect venue for your event. Our intimate Garden Courtyard and versatile Board Room are ideal for events of up to 125 guests. For the convenience of your out-of-town guests, Linden Row Inn also offers 70 uniquely appointed guest rooms with modern amenities and historic touches. Special group rates available. Visit lindenrowinn.com.
MANOR HOUSE AT KINGS CHARTER 2019 Couples Choice Award. 2020 Best of Weddings-TheKnot.com. Kick up your heels in the classically decorated ballroom, enjoy cocktails amidst the manicured lawn and formal gardens. Surround yourself with a lush array of blooms while you exchange vows in several garden ceremony sites. Delight on delicacies from the caterer of your choice! You choose the time of day, ceremony location, and caterer. Then relax while our outstanding on-site coordination services assist you in creating your enchanting day at The Manor House at Kings Charter. We have one great event per day, make it yours! TheManorHouseVa.com or 804.550.0020.
MAYMONT From an intimate proposal to a gorgeous garden ceremony and every special moment in between, Maymont is the perfect setting for memories that will last a lifetime. Wedding ceremony sites include the flower-filled Italian Garden and tranquil Japanese Garden which have made it Richmond’s “best outdoor wedding site,” and indoor rooms and outdoor tented spaces are
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available for receptions. A horse-drawn carriage ride adds a unique touch to the occasion. Maymont also is a great location for rehearsal dinners, bridal portraits, and creative custom engagement packages. Discover this urban oasis located just five minutes from downtown Richmond. 804-358-7167. Email rentals@maymont.org or visit maymont.org, facebook.com/maymont or twitter.com/maymont.
THE OMNI HOMESTEAD RESORT Once-in-a-lifetime events should happen in a spectacular setting and weddings at The Omni Homestead Resort do. The timeless elegance of this iconic resort is rivaled only by the Southern hospitality and attention to detail with which each event is approached. From the exquisite Crystal ballroom and sweeping grandeur of the Casino Lawn to the intimate and historic Tower Suite and rustic elegance of the Shooting Club, each venue creates an inspiring setting for your special day. Make your wedding even more memorable by incorporating the magnificent Spa, award-winning golf courses, and dozens of other recreational amenities. From our talented chefs to our dedicated wedding team, The Omni Homestead family is at your service. TheOmniHomestead.com.
THE RENAISSANCE Coined as “Richmond’s Best Kept Secret,” The Renaissance is one of Richmond’s largest Victorian ballrooms offering a true one-stop shop wedding experience. The Renaissance was completed in 1887, and to this day still offers a timeless and elegant atmosphere you won’t find anywhere else. The Richmond newspapers spoke volumes over the years of the elegant affairs and events hosted here and even today as you enter the Grand Foyer, you walk through a doorway to a glorious past and get a hint of things to come. With our convenient downtown location in Richmond’s popular Art’s District, parking is convenient and plentiful, and we are close to most downtown hotel rooms, making it easy for guests to stay close by. For more information please call or text 804.649.3373 or visit renaissanceva.com.
ROXABEL Roxabel is an exclusive outdoor venue for weddings and events in Southside Virginia. As a historic, family-run business, we offer elegant options that scale easily based on your vision for your event. We have stunning scenic views on our secluded property that provide the perfect backdrop. Our website and social media provide answers to questions and examples of gorgeous weddings held on our farm. Call us today to discuss! www.roxabelvenue.com, FB @RoxabelEvents, Instagram @RoxabelVenue.
STRATFORD HALL Wedding memories have been made at Stratford Hall since Hannah Lee, daughter of Stratford Hall’s original owner Thomas Lee, married Gawin Corbin in 1747. Weddings packages at Stratford Hall offer a unique, inclusive experience that both you and your guests are sure to enjoy! Breathtaking backdrops across the grounds create special memories throughout your wedding weekend. From the grandeur of the Great House, 18th-century gardens, farm and barn backdrops, and spectacular Potomac River views, Stratford Hall offers a memorable wedding weekend. Special guest accommodations on site are available in unique, charming guesthouses. Contact our wedding coordinator for more information: ebacon@stratfordhall.org.
THE TUCKAHOE WOMAN’S CLUB The Tuckahoe Woman's Club is an elegant venue for wedding receptions, fundraising events, corporate gatherings, and other personal or business occasions. Renting at The Tuckahoe Woman's Club has the advantage of allowing the renter to determine the important aspects of the affair. Renters choose their own caterer, florist, entertainment, wedding designer, and other vendors that will make the event a very special one. The auditorium can accommodate up to 200 guests for a seated dinner without dancing, or 175 guests with a dance area. An elegant sitting room behind the stage is available for brides, speakers, and entertainers. The garden can accommodate up
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