Meet this week's guest editor, Rebecca Thomas! A former restaurateur, Rebecca empowers people to make real, nourishing food at home without recipes, gadgets, or complicated prep. As the founder of Not Another Diet, she works to end generational diet culture by promoting simple, sustainable approaches to healthy living. With over 30 years of home cooking and 15 years in the restaurant industry, Rebecca created COOK!, a course that teaches intuitive, real-food cooking.
Her philosophy is all about enjoying the process of sourcing, preparing, and sharing food as a cornerstone of a healthy, joyful life. Outside of teaching, Rebecca loves biking, fresh produce, good coffee, and ... our favorite ... an early bedtime!
Take it away, Rebecca ...
GET LOST Touring Presentation with Pat McAleer
Part of a healthy, connected life is getting outside and challenging yourself -- a little or a lot, it all counts. I love hearing stories and practical advice from people who did just that. Come listen to Pat McAleer, a self-proclaimed "average rider" as he shares the highs and lows of his 10-day tour from Asheville to D.C. along the Blue Ridge Parkway and Skyline Drive! This is a great presentation for anyone interested in doing a fun and challenging ride just a few hours from RVA.
Vitals:
GET LOST Touring Presentation: "10 Pictures, A Few Stories and an F-bomb"/ Thursday, December 12, 6:00 pm / FREE / Journeyman's Adventure Co., 115 N 18th Street
Honey Tasting with Dr. Hollee Freeman
Dr. Hollee Freeman is a tireless advocate and educator about all things bees. These little creatures are so important to the health of our environment and the food it produces. The more I learn, the more I want to know! Join her this Saturday for a reading from her book about bees and a honey tasting.
This is my favorite market due to its smaller size and later start time. I love biking here from my home in Church Hill. I fill my bags with seasonal veggies, sourdough rye from Europa Crust, and killer feta from Caromont Farm. I suggest strolling with a coffee, munching on some berries from Agriberry, and go hike through Forest Hill, one of the loveliest city parks, when you're done shopping. A perfect day.
This holiday season, surprise your loved ones with something truly special. The True Places RVA fine art print series depicts Richmond’s hidden outdoor spaces—destinations not found on maps or along well-worn paths. Shop limited-edition works by Ed Trask, Austin Miles, Steve Hedberg, Laura Goodman, and Melissa Burgess. Each locally made 14”x18” print is the perfect ready-to-frame size and available for immediate purchase, making it an ideal gift for local art lovers and those who seek to explore Richmond beyond the boundaries of a traditional map. On sale now at www.trueplacesrva.com.
Meet this week's guest editor, Mike Harrison, an interior decorator and artist who recently made Richmond his home. Originally from New York, Mike’s background includes living alongside actors, musicians, and fellow struggling artists, an experience that profoundly shaped his approach to design. His work emphasizes relatable, budget-conscious spaces that inspire creativity and foster a sense of safety and comfort.
For Mike, a great week includes uncovering a thrift-store treasure, indulging in chicken wings, engaging in meaningful conversations that offer fresh perspectives, and embracing spontaneity with a resounding "yes" to new opportunities.
Take it away, Mike ...
Deals & Treasures at Diversity Thrift
If you’re looking for a must-visit spot, Diversity Thrift should be at the top of your list. This hidden gem is part of Diversity Richmond, an organization dedicated to creating an inclusive community that is safe and welcoming for LGBTQ+ individuals, families, and allies. Their mission is to serve as a catalyst, a voice, and a resource that enriches and champions diversity.
I can confidently say I’ve never walked out of Diversity Thrift without scoring an incredible find for my home. Knowing that every purchase supports such an important mission makes shopping there even more meaningful.
Vitals:
Diversity Thrift / Gallery and thrift open daily from 10:00 am - 6:00 pm (donation drop-off until 3:00 pm) / Diversity Thrift: 1407 Sherwood Avenue
Touchdowns & Turkey: Thanksgiving at HomeTeam Grill
Next up is HomeTeam Grill, the perfect spot to unwind and catch a game. I’ve had some amazing conversations with strangers here, and the welcoming vibe makes it easy to feel at home—shopping bags and all! Whether you’re looking for a laid-back environment to relax after a shopping spree or a place to watch football on Thanksgiving Day, Home Team Grill hits the mark. Vitals:
Thanksgiving at HomeTeam Grill / Thursday, November 28th, 4:00 - 11:00 PM / HomeTeam Grill, 1630 W. Main Street
Budget-Friendly Class and Trash
To wrap up the week, I’d recommend a visit to Class and Trash—with locations in Scott's Addition and Ashland. As someone often hired to bring magic into homes (yes, I’ve even decorated a Christmas tree for Mariah Carey using only thrifty finds!), I can easily pinpoint the best spots for adding sparkle on a budget. Class and Trash offers a funky fusion of vintage and modern, allowing you to maximize every dollar while creating something truly magical.
Ken and Lisa Waldrop originally opened Class and Trash in 2004 on Route 1 between Richmond and Ashland. The duo, who previously operated several booths in local antique malls, found their niche when they opened their own store in Ashland and later expanded to an outpost in Scott's Addition. Both locations feature a funky, affordable, and ever-changing lineup of furniture and unique objects worth exploring.
With Small Business Saturday (honored every year on the Saturday after Thanksgiving) just around the corner, there’s no better time to take advantage of the prime shopping opportunities right in our local community.
Vitals:
Class and Trash / 1720 Altamont Ave. / 11088 Washington Hwy. (Route 1)
More From Mike ...
I’m constantly on the move, traveling across the country—and throughout Richmond—bringing creative visions to life. While I’m no longer on social media, you can reach me at mikeharrisonart@gmail.com to connect or see examples of my work.
My mission is to help people transform their spaces as they step into the next chapter of their lives. Whether it’s through a painting, a mural, a complete bedroom redesign, or simply guidance on colors and thrift finds, I’m here to help bring your ideas to life. Wishing everyone a wonderful holiday weekend!
Meet this week's guest editor, Liza Mickens! A native of Richmond, Liza carries forward the legacy of her great-great-grandmother, Maggie Lena Walker, by advocating for gender equality as a spokesperson for Vote Equality US. Currently, Liza is the Social Media Specialist at Virginia Tourism Corporation, where she shares why "Virginia is for Lovers" through engaging content.
Liza is a proud James Madison University graduate, majoring in Communications and Public Relations. After a brief stint in NYC pursuing a fashion industry dream, Liza returned home to Richmond to celebrate Virginia's ratification of the Equal Rights Amendment. Since then, she’s embraced her hometown’s growth and while she eagerly anticipates JMU’s football season opener, she’s hoping the Washington Commanders will give her something to cheer for on Sundays.
Take it away, Liza...
Vintage Market
To celebrate two years at South Pine Street, CobbleStore Vintage is having an anniversary vintage market. The lineup includes vendors that have contributed to the store in some way since they began in 2016. Check out some of my favorite vendors like @grannys_garage plus snag some delicious eats from TBT El Gallo and Ruby Scoops. Fan Ran & Profound79 of Gritty City Records will be spinning a 2000s and 90s hip hop blend.
Vitals:
Vintage Market/ Saturday, August 24th, 11:00 am - 7:00 pm / Free / 324 South Pine Street
M?LES at Gallery 5
This Sunday kicks off a new monthly series with Gallery 5 and the Broad Street Bullies. Creative duo, M?les (Mylo Video Productions and M.P.) are inviting their friends to perform and showcase their work on the fourth Sunday of every month. The team at Gallery 5 has a special place in my heart after working together on Maggie Walker’s 160th birthday celebration. Their team recently moved their stage back in front of the large station doors. Come out and see my friends showcasing their talents in this redesigned space.
Vitals:
M?les at Gallery5/ Friday, August 25th, 5:00 - 10:00 pm / $10 in advance, $15 at the door / Gallery 5, 200 W. Marshall Street
RATIFIED at the Byrd Theatre
Join us on Women's Equality Day for Virginia's debut of RATIFIED at the Byrd on August 26th. The film follows the key figures involved in Virginia’s ratification of the Equal Rights Amendment. Though Virginia was the final state needed to ratify the ERA in 2020, it is still not a Constitutional amendment. Come learn more about efforts that happened right here in our city. I will emcee a panel after the film with Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan, Andrea Miller, Kati Hornung, and Eastan Weber.
Vitals:
RATIFIED / Monday, August 26th, 6:30 - 9:30 pm / Tickets range from $5 - 28 / Byrd Theatre, 2908 W Cary St, Richmond, VA 23221
We're bringing 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.
Women’s Equality Day is not just a celebration, but a call to action. Check out the Equality Toolkit from RATIFIED for examples of how to get involved. Democracy takes all of us, taking action together to shape our collective future, so invite the people you love to get off the sidelines!
Now is also a great time to double-check your voter registration, research issues and candidates, and make your voting plan. Friends don’t let friends vote alone!
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