Prepare to be inspired by this week's guest editor, Saajida Chohan. A shining example of passion in action, Saajida is a dynamic Richmonder whose expertise spans education, community advocacy, and artistic expression. Her unwavering dedication to promoting equity and social justice has made her a formidable community advocate. Beyond her roles in education and leadership, Saajida is an artist both by trade and by heart; her African-inspired jewelry creations radiate cultural significance and artistic flair.
In her downtime, Saajida enjoys biking, swimming, watching documentaries and listening to music with her son. She also has a passion for herbalism, creating medicinal mixtures and offering herbal advice to family, friends, and customers. The beach is her favorite place; as a Pisces, she feels at home in the water and energized by the sun.
Take it away, Saajida...
The Art Seen: Artists Showcase and Meet & Greet
This is sure to be a special First Friday at Urban Hang Suite. Justice Dwight will be on site for the second and final month of his showcase. We’ll be celebrating the 10th anniversary of his “Call Tyrone” painting with new iterations and a special print drop. This is a special one for Justice as this painting has graced many walls including those of Issa Rae’s!
Artist Talk: Re(CLAY)mation of Collaborative Intersections
Join us to learn from Lydia C. Thompson, a mixed media artist and professor at University of North Carolina at Charlotte, as she discusses the history of African American ceramics and the inception for the “Like the Dust Settles in Layers, So Does the Story” and 2024 NCECA Multicultural Fellowship exhibitions.
This program will be hosted as part of Black History Museum Cultural Center of Virginia’s community access programming and aligns with the current exhibitions being supported by the National Council on the Education of Ceramics (NCECA).
Don't miss our special "Meet & Greet" as part of the "Virginia Is For Music Lovers: An Exploration of Virginia’s Black Excellence In Music" exhibition. This evening offers a unique opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the vibrant intersection of art and music, while meeting some of the incredible artists and DJs who have contributed to this groundbreaking exhibition.
Our pop-up exhibition commemorating Black Music Month is now open. Exploring the vibrant heritage of Black music across the Commonwealth, Virginia is for Music Lovers highlights the talents of local artists, musicians and DJs showcasing their contributions to the soulful rhythms and powerful narratives of the African American experience. Take a multi-sensory journey through the rich cultural heritage of Black music in Virginia, complete with QR codes that unlock curated playlists that inspired the visual art and thematic narratives on display. Remember to BYOB (Bring Your Own Buds) – earbuds, AirPods or headphones for a personal listening experience. You don't want to miss this special, interactive exhibition!
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.
This week’s guest editor, Leah Fremouw is a familiar face and dynamic force in the economic development community. She currently serves as the President & CEO of Bridging Virginia - a newly established community development loan fund. In this role, she partners with businesses, nonprofits, and localities in a variety of industries and growth stages to support their capital needs and movement to the next level. In 2020, she led the relaunch of the Richmond region’s small business development center (SBDC) and in 2021 helped secure $10 million from the General Assembly to establish and fund the new VA CDFI (community development financial institution) Fund, later founding and chairing the VA CDFI Coalition.
Previously, Leah was SVP and Director of Community Innovation at Virginia Community Capital, driving impactful financial services statewide. Her diverse background includes roles at CarLotz, VCU’s Performance Management Group, and Richmond’s public housing communities.
Leah is deeply involved in her community, serving on boards like ChamberRVA and the Partnership for Housing Affordability, and launching the Renegade Capital podcast. She has led TEDxRVA, chaired Impact 100 Richmond, and earned accolades like the VCU Top 10 Under 10 award. Appointed to the GO Virginia Board by Governor Northam, Leah is also a real estate and business investor, contributing to projects like the Regency Mall pickleball facility.
Take it away, Leah…
PopUp RVA
PopUp RVA is back for its fourth season, offering Richmond’s largest weekly vendor market at The Diamond. Featuring 50-70 local businesses, including artisans, food trucks, and dessert stands, the event also boasts live music, a margarita bar, and various beverages. Free to attend, each week presents a new lineup of vendors and entertainment, ensuring a unique and fun-filled experience supporting local businesses and enjoying great food and music.
Vitals:
PopUp RVA / Saturday, May 25th, 10am - 3pm, free / The Diamond, 3001 North Arthur Ashe Boulevard Richmond, VA 23230
Richmond Liminal
Heed the call to adventure in Carytown! In this city-wide game of art & wit, you'll join the Wandering Liminal Society in their quest to fight the Void. Use your wits to find remnants of inspiration from the past and your artistry to create something beautiful for the future in the secret and forgotten spaces of the city! Bring your whole squad or fly solo. All experience levels & abilities welcome. Voted Best Interactive event at its world premiere at Adelaide Fringe in Australia, this is a co-project of local creators, Sam Chan & Carmel Clavin.
Vitals:
Richmond Liminal / every Friday in June, 7:00 PM to 8:15 PM, $32+ / VMFA Sculpture Garden, 1613 W. Laburnum Ave Richmond, VA 23227
The Hello Summer Festival
The Love Movement Social Event Series presents The Hello Summer Festival, a community celebration to kick off the summer season. The lineup is filled with incredible music from The Love Movement, DJ Adapt, DJ Kirven, and DJ E1, hosted by the energetic Chey Butta. Enjoy live performances from R&B sensation LoveJoi and Washington DC’s own Go-Go legends, The Experience Band and Show! The festival will also feature a variety of vendors, food trucks, drinks, and plenty of fun, all in support of a great cause.
Vitals:
The Hello Summer Festival / Saturday, May 25th, 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM, $15 tickets / Main Line Brewery, 1603 Ownby Lane Richmond, VA 23220
More From Leah...
We're honored that Bridging Virginia has been nominated for Richmond Times-Dispatch's 2024 Richmond The Best Awards. Nominations close May 29. Click here to learn more and nominate us!
On a more personal note, I’m compiling my summer reading list, starting with my friend Andrea Longton’s new book, "The Social Justice Investor." You can order it at a local bookstore like the Book Bar RVA. Also, pick up Jessica Norwood’s book, "Believe in You Money"—you won’t regret it!
My weekends are packed with pickleball games and tournaments. As an investor in Performance Pickleball RVA, I plan to play in many tournaments. The upcoming Body Armor 804 Open, featuring pro divisions, live broadcasts, food, and music, promises to be fun for players and spectators. See you on the courts!
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