vol. 238 / srija

vol. 238 / Srija


VOL. 238 / SRIJA

Meet this week's guest editor, Srija Kothakonda! 

Srija is a talented henna artist and co-founder of The VA Foodies, a blog dedicated to showcasing local culinary gems and celebrating diverse flavors. Renowned for her intricate henna work, she loves creating art that bridges cultures. As a nail content creator, she expresses her creativity through vibrant nail designs. Through her blog, Srija inspires others to explore and support local food scenes while sharing her own culinary adventures.

A passionate traveler, Srija enjoys immersing herself in new cultures, seeking out unique local dishes. She’s also a live music fan and is always on the lookout for the best chai in town.

Take it away, Srija...

2nd Street Festival


I’m really looking forward to the 2nd Street Festival this year! I love all the events that Venture Richmond puts on, and this celebration of Jackson Ward’s rich history as “the Harlem of the South” is going to be amazing. With live music, a Kidz Zone, delicious food vendors, and Artists Row for shopping, it’s a fantastic opportunity to dive into the vibrant culture and community spirit!

Vitals: 

The 2nd Street Festival / Saturday, October 5th, 11:30 am - 7:00 pm & Sunday, October 6th, 12:00 pm - 6:00 pm / free / Jackson Ward, along N. 2nd Street between E. Broad and E. Jackson Streets (124 E. Broad Street)

RVA Supporting Appalachia: Benefit Concert

Virginia artists are uniting to raise relief funds for communities hit hard by Hurricane Helene in Southwest VA, Western NC, Eastern TN, and beyond. The RVA Supporting Appalachia Benefit Concert will take place on Sunday, October 6th at Get Tight Lounge and will feature performances by Erin & The Wildfire, Weekend Plans, Fonville, DJHarrison RVA & R4ND4ZZO, Sally Rose, and more! Event proceeds will go to the Appalachian Helene Response Fund. 

Let’s lift up our neighbors in Appalachia. Donate & support today!

Vitals:

RVA Supporting Appalachia: Benefit Concert / Sunday, October 6th, 6:00 pm (doors), 7:00 pm (music) / tickets, $20 pp / Get Tight Lounge, 1104 W Main Street

Pasta and Pumpkins!


I can’t wait to experience this cozy event at 1721 E Franklin St, hosted by the amazing team at Sprezza. Their pasta classes are my absolute favorite! We’ll kick off with a glass of prosecco and learn to make Pumpkin Gnocchi and Pecorino Nutmeg Orecchiette Pugliesi. Plus, we'll get to enjoy an autumn-themed cocktail, a Southern Italian antipasto, and a special dessert. It’s the perfect chance to gather with friends and family for a night of great food and fun!

Vitals:

Pasta and Pumpkins! / Sunday, October 20th, 5:00 - 7:00 pm / tickets, $90 pp / Sprezzina, 1721 E. Franklin St
GRID SUPPLY CO.

Made Here.

*Limited Supply Remaining*
We've brought back one of our most popular Grid shop items, an Old Fashioned glass that is anything but old fashioned! Our collaboration with artist Hamilton Glass continues, and features his signature #Whosham RVA logo laser-etched around these double rocks cocktail glasses. Hamilton, with his architectural background and passion for public art, has been prominently featured in Richmond Grid and Here Weekly. We’re thrilled to present this limited-edition product from Grid Supply Co. that highlights his distinctive style.

If cocktail glasses aren't your thing, Grid Supply Co. carries other locally made gifts and handmade items by some Richmond's favorite makers and artisans.  

PURCHASE HERE

More from Srija...

After taking a refreshing summer break, I’m excited to jump back into creating content for The VA Foodies! I’ve missed sharing my adventures and can’t wait to showcase some of my existing favorite spots while also exploring new and exciting places to eat, as well as highlighting local businesses and events in our community. There’s so much vibrant culture to discover, and I’m eager to celebrate the amazing flavors and creative spirit that make our area so special.

In addition to my food adventures, I’m thrilled to be expanding Henna by Srija in the community. I’ll be participating in more events and collaborating with other talented creatives and local businesses. One of my most exciting projects is developing a henna workshop! I’ve received so much interest from people wanting to learn about this beautiful art form, and I can’t wait to share my passion for henna with others. It’s a wonderful opportunity to connect, create, and spread the joy of henna in our community. 

I’m also diving deeper into my freelance nail content work and am currently working on a very exciting project with a nail brand. While I can’t share the details just yet, it’s been an amazing experience, and I’m beyond stoked to reveal more soon!

Stay tuned for updates on my latest adventures in food, henna, and nail art—I’m looking forward to an inspiring season ahead!

Learn More Here