Meet this week's guest editor, Victoria Bateman, the talented social media manager behind Secret Supper Society and other local businesses. With a passion for helping brands stand out in the digital world, Victoria creates social media strategies that connect to business goals while captivating audiences. Her approach is rooted in the belief that you attract what you feel. She is known for prioritizing brand storytelling that evokes emotion, authentic messaging, and compelling visuals. And as a result, her work helps local businesses, particularly in the food and beverage industry, create a standout social media presence and meaningful connections with their audience.
Victoria is also a devoted wife and mother to two amazing children, a 13-year-old son and a 3-year-old daughter. She has a passion for all things wellness, and is a self-proclaimed foodie and thoroughly enjoys experiencing the new restaurants our city has to offer.
Take it away, Victoria ...
RVA Black Bar Crawl
Richmond's favorite Juneteenth celebration returns on Saturday, June 22nd, with the RVA Black Bar Crawl. Juneteenth commemorates the emancipation of slavery, and this bar crawl celebrates it by supporting local minority-owned businesses. Starting at Main Street Steakhouse, participants pick up $15 wristbands, granting exclusive access and discounts at over eight popular bars and restaurants, plus a 10% discount on tattoos at Misfit Tattoo Society. Last year’s crawl introduced us to new favorite spots, and we're excited to discover more this year. Participating venues include:
Main Street Steakhouse (1112 E Main St) - Pick up bands (first 1000 get a free commemorative T-shirt)
Misfit Tattoo Society (105 N 17th St) - 10% discount
I'm excited to attend an exclusive Rosé Tasting at The Bordeaux at Marylou's on Wednesday, June 26th at 5:30 pm. Curated by sommelier Chauncey Jenkins, this event offers an evening of fine wines, gourmet pairings, and great ambiance for just $25. Participants will enjoy four rosé tastings (both still and sparkling) paired with delicious small bites, while DJ J. Frvncis provides the music. It's a perfect opportunity to explore new wines, enjoy great food, and connect with like-minded individuals in a relaxed setting. If you're looking for a unique Wednesday night, join me at Marylou's for this Rhythm and Rosé Tasting.
Vitals:
Rhythm and Rosé Tasting at The Bordeaux at Marylou's / Wednesday, June 26 at 5:30 pm / $25, pay at the door / 1323 W. Main Street
Secret Supper Society
I'm especially excited to announce our upcoming Secret Supper event, "Granny's House," on Sunday, June 30th at 4:00 pm. The Secret Supper Society offers a unique dining experience, and this supper promises to be one of our best. The menu features an elevated take on neo-soul food, crafted to evoke the warm, comforting feelings of dinner at grandma's house. Chef Xavier Beverly will present classic soul food dishes with a modern, refined twist, showcasing the evolution of this beloved cuisine. "Granny's House" will be a heartfelt tribute to family gatherings, offering an innovative and elevated dining experience.
Vitals:
Granny’s House Secret Supper / Sunday, June 30, 4:00 pm / purchase tickets here / Secret location in Richmond, shared only with attendees
More from Victoria and Secret Supper Society...
Secret Supper Society offers a dining experience unlike any other where you're given the opportunity to connect, learn, and celebrate culinary artistry. Each event unfolds in a new, exciting venue adorned with an awe-inspiring theme and picturesque decor. A different master chef and our house sommelier meticulously curate every course and wine pairing, taking you on an elevated sensory journey that transcends mere dining – it's an unforgettable exploration of taste, culture, and creativity. Every Secret Supper includes up to eight courses with expertly selected wine pairings, ensuring an unparalleled value for food and wine enthusiasts or anyone that enjoys luxury experiences. Suppers are designed to foster meaningful connections among guests while showcasing the artistry and passion of the featured culinary team.
If this sounds like an experience you'd enjoy, reserve your seat at thesecretss.com.
Our Here guest editors this week are Anna Leon and Cristian Bravo. Combined, the two have more than 30 years of experience teaching and performing tango worldwide. Just over a year ago, they created Virginia Tango to bring the art (and fun) of authentic Argentine tango to the Commonwealth.
Cristian got his start at ten-years-old. Over his long tango journey, he has placed and won championships, danced in countless shows, taught tango salon, stage, and master classes all over the world and in prominent schools in Buenos Aires.
Anna grew up listening to tango music and then lived in Buenos Aires in her 20s. She has studied under many teachers, and has taught and performed in cities across North America from Los Angeles to Montreal.
Students and milonga event guests are just as drawn to the pair as they are excited to learn the intricacies of the dance. Many students also say they come regularly to classes and events as a creative outlet and to meet and connect with others.
Take it away, Anna and Cristian ...
Jazz Night & Brunch at the Savory Grain
One of our favorite local experiences is weekly Jazz at the Savory Grain! Up next is Roger Carroll's Jazz Brunch Duo for Jazzy Brunch this Sunday from 11:00 am - 2:00 pm. Then, the Rhythmasters and The Still Point play on alternating Thursdays at 7:30 pm.
We treat every day like a date. This week, you can find us savoring the flavors of the city at Scoop for ice cream. We actually visited the small-batch ice cream shop the night we were married for a celebration treat. And we make sure to go back frequently! We typically go for the dark chocolate sorbet as well as the lavender honey.
We love to collect antique espresso cups -- you can even see and sip from our collection during classes and events! We regularly spend our free time treasure hunting at Class & Trash in Scott's Addition, nonprofit thrift stores Diversity Thrift and Habitat Restore, Governor’s Antiques in Mechanicsville, and more.
Jump into learning tango in 2024 with Virginia Tango's intensive two-week program. No experience or partner needed — you’ll master the basics of this Argentine social dance. Classes are on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday, taught by Anna and Cristian. After two weeks, join Virginia Tango's "Que Onda Milonga!" social dance, featuring a guest DJ and homemade Argentine food. Sessions run June 24 to July 6 and July 22 to August 3 at Tangueros, 10049 Midlothian Turnpike. Learn more + Sign up Here!
A Designed Life
Anna is also an interior designer who blends function, style, and a sense of home. She studied interior design, architecture, wood-working, and printmaking at the University of Missouri - Columbia, and in Florence, Italy. Her worldly yet personal aesthetic aligns with clients' tastes, budgets, and personal treasures. She creates spaces for side conversations, dinner parties, warmth, laughter, creativity, and tranquility, working on projects from single rooms to entire homes, including landscaping plans. Learn more about her design company Haus of León.
Nadia S. Anderson, this week's guest editor, is a problem solver who balances luxury with productivity and joy. Richmond Community High School and University of Virginia alumni, she emphasizes the importance of rest and play. Nadia's analytical and imaginative sides shine through her roles as a Certified Public Accountant and Certified Wedding and Event Planner. She owns Virginia Grace, an event management company that plans, designs, and coordinates elegant weddings and events, and Lavender Hill, a commercial property for celebrations and collaborations. After volunteering for seven years with CreativeMornings, Nadia now sponsors the organization and shares her expertise through The Anderson Accounting and Advising Group (TAAG). She's a founding board member of the National Society of Black Wedding and Event Professionals (NSBWEP), contributes to The Knot + Wedding Wire, and is an international speaker. Outside of work, Nadia is an avid reader and music enthusiast, frequently spotted at Richmond's restaurants or exploring new countries and states.
Take it away, Nadia...
Beats & Blockbusters in the Garden at Lavender Hill
Come join us for a night filled with entertainment in the garden at Lavender Hill. We'll start the evening as Legacy Band sets the mood with twilight tunes. After the sun sets, we'll laugh and reminisce under the stars with the classic 90's film Brown Sugar. This event is for adults only. Access to a folding garden chair, popcorn, and one drink from the bar are included in the ticket price, so you can sit and snack while you watch! Additional food is available for purchase from Sweets and Soirees.
Want to feel more comfortable? Don't forget to bring a blanket, wear shoes you can kick off, and get set for a cozy and entertaining evening outdoors.
Vitals:
Live Music + A Movie Outdoors - Beats & Blockbusters in the Garden at Lavender Hill / Thursday, May 30th, 6:30pm, tickets here / Lavender Hill, 1705 Commonwealth Avenue, Richmond
The 46th Annual Richmond Greek Festival
Well before Richmond was known as a foodie town, making lists as a travel destination, and encouraging folks to come visit for the festivals, this has been on my essential Summertime kick-off list! Get out and indulge in one of the longest running Richmond festival traditions featuring legendary Greek food and wine, dancing, music, art and jewelry vendors. Take a tour of the beautiful sanctuary at Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Cathedral to learn more about the religion and the culture.
Health is wealth. I strive to move my body intentionally five times each week. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, you’ll find me in a private strength training session at Baker Unified Fitness. When I’m really being an over-achiever, I pop in to do a group class too! Maybe I’ll see you there on Saturday.
As the owner of Virginia Grace, I curate rich sensory experiences that allow clients and their guests to be fully present while celebrating milestones and collaborating with partners. Lavender Hill gives me a chance to showcase the work that I’ve shared with clients across the country, right here in my hometown.
Our newest initiative at Lavender Hill is an exciting offering for intimate gatherings of 25 guests or less. The package includes the venue, a wedding officiant, live music, a photographer, flowers, catering, china, glassware, flatware, and linen, all coordinated through a single point of contact. For those who want an effortless way to celebrate or gather, this is the perfect match. Learn more & book a tour here.
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