Our guest editor this week is Rana Hamadani, the owner and founder of Sage & Vine Aesthetics, a Medspa and Lash Lounge. Rana has been a Richmond resident for 17 years, and has a passion for mentoring and elevating women in her field. She grew up in Los Angeles, went to college in San Diego, moved to Richmond for a relationship, and never left! She loves Richmond's perfect blend of big city and small town living. Plus, with the mountains, beach, and DC all just a couple hours away, there's always something new to do.
This year, Rana transformed her beauty business from “Lash Out Beauty Bar” into an entirely new concept for the area – Sage & Vine, a one-stop-shop for beauty and skincare. Rana is also an expert aesthetician, ensuring that her growing staff offers the highest quality skincare and beauty services. In addition, her Lash Tech Certification courses reach women exploring a career in the rapidly growing industry every day. As this week's guest editor, Rana shares her top tips for holiday fun!
Take it away, Rana ...
The Nutcracker at Richmond Ballet
This ultimate holiday classic, The Nutcracker, is not to be missed! December marks the first revival of Artistic Director Stoner Winslett’s brand-new, much-loved production of The Nutcracker, with 17 breathtaking performances at the Carpenter Theatre. Whether you're a lifelong fan or experiencing The Nutcracker for the first time, there's something magical waiting for you.
Vitals:
The Nutcracker / through December 24th, times & prices vary / Carpenter Theatre, Dominion Energy Center for the Arts, 600 E Grace St.
Shop & Support Local
Looking for ideas to spark joy during this season? My family takes a trip right after the holidays to keep the magic alive, and to create an experience they’ll always remember. Many locally-owned spots offer experiences.
As we all search for those last minute holiday gifts, consider shopping local! In Richmond, we're surrounded by local makers and local business-owners to support. You'll discover fantastic gift ideas at For Posh Sake in Mechanicsville, offering a unique selection of boutique gifts, clothing, and jewelry, or check out Bonded, where you'll find customized bracelets with rave reviews. For those seeking relaxation and self-care, Proactive Massage and Body Works in Hanover and even our own Sage & Vine offers giftable self-care experiences, beauty bundles, memberships, and gift cards. Lastly, barReVA and BOHO Studios in the heart of Richmond are local, women-owned businesses that are changing the health and wellness game.
Each one of these establishments are worthy of your patronage!
Get Lucky!
If you're looking for some amazing local food spots, I've got you covered! Whenever I need to catch up with my girls, we head out to explore some of the best dinner spots in town.
A few of my favorites: Lucky AF: The sushi is absolutely delicious, and the atmosphere is so lively and fun. Yaya’s Cookbook: Again, I’m a sucker for sushi with personality and their cocktails are to die for! Charred in Mechanicsville: It's right next to our shop, and the food and drinks are always amazing. Plus, the owner is so helpful and accommodating -- he's even let me set up team meetings in his large space!
Hope you get to try out these spots and enjoy them as much as I do! The food scene in Richmond doesn't disappoint.
The Gift of Local Art for the Holidays
Discover the beauty of Richmond's hidden outdoor gems with True Places. Our experiential art initiative features local artists who have captured the essence of their true place in stunning prints. These unique destinations, off the beaten path, are brought to life in a series of fine art prints that inspire exploration and celebration of our community's most authentic outdoor spaces. Own a piece of art that honors these special places and showcase your love for adventure, or give True Places as a gift for the holidays! All True Places fine art prints featuring local artists are half off during the holidays at True Places and Richmond Grid's maker shop.
