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!
Meet this week's guest editor, Kayen Wilborn! As a Family Partner at The Faison Center for Autism, he offers compassionate support, advocating for his clients' independence and well-being. Alongside his care work, Kayen is an accomplished musician with 12 years as a professional DJ and eight years as the singer, trumpeter, and bandleader of Weekend Plans, known for its blend of Jazz, Funk, Hip-Hop, and R&B. He has shared the stage with many national and international touring acts like Ledisi and Trombone Shorty. Kayen’s studies in Music Performance and Social Psychology at Virginia Commonwealth University enhance his artistic and empathetic approach to life. Passionate about art in all forms, Kayen also enjoys cooking and is known for his flavorful BBQ and vegan dishes. As a professional DJ (DJ Lēto), he has extensive experience with various events and is always ready to provide a memorable musical experience.
Take it away, Kayen...
Vibes at Sunset
Take a little time to enrich yourself on this pre-Friday evening! The amazing curators of Electric Sun Society will be leading yoga and meditation sessions, there will be food vendors, merch vendors, and two guest DJs, one of which is my guy J. Kirven, who will be spinning under the blissful rays as the sun sets. Bring your blanket, your yoga mat, even a furry friend or two!
Vitals:
Vibes at Sunset / Friday, August 15th, 5:00 - 9:00 pm / Free / Libby Hill Park, 6801 E. Franklin Street
Pay Rent Brass Band at Get Tight Lounge
If you want to get sonically hit in the face with some of your favorite pop, hip-hop, rock, and even video game songs, Pay Rent Brass Band has you covered. These dudes don't play around. With their intricate arrangements and bombastic presence, they bring the heat to whatever room they're in. Grab a friend, grab a drink at the bar, dance the night away, and sing your heart out!
Weekend Plans, North by North, Beefcake & Flatspot at The Camel
Now what kind of self-respecting bandleader would I be if I did not take every opportunity to shamelessly promote my band? Yes, my band Weekend Plans is performing at The Camel with some friends! Beefcake and Flatspot are some of our local buddies, and North by North is traveling from Chicago to throw down with us! It's going to be a great time with some rockin', funkin', groovin' music to boot! We can't wait to hang with you on Hump Day!
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.
My best friend Jordan and I, seen here in the photo of us apparently attempting to smile like horses, are working on new music for our band, Weekend Plans (he is the co-founder, lead songwriter, and bassist). Additionally, though not pictured, my other best friend Justin (keyboard player and also co-founder) and I are working hard behind the scenes to put together a string of shows in the coming months (some might call it a "tour"), so stay tuned!
Lastly, I am just grateful to be alive, to interact with family and friends, and to hopefully learn some lessons and make new friends along the way. So many goals, aspirations, and dreams...I'm lucky to be alive to pursue them with all of my might. A comedian once said, "In your life, in any given moment, the strongest dream of that moment, WINS that moment." I think I am a very powerful dreamer, and I try to bring my dreams closer to fruition every day.
Meet this week's guest editor, Elaine Digges! Elaine is a small business hype woman and the creator behind @miss_elaine_neous, who has called Richmond home for nearly a decade. Believing that "making friends shouldn't be that hard," she founded a new weekly social group called Let's Hang (@letshangrva).
After experiencing firsthand the benefits of community connection, Elaine decided to pivot and help others find that same sense of belonging in Richmond. Following two years of exploring the city, she realized it was time to create a social group for like-minded Richmond enthusiasts and those looking to make new friends. Elaine believes there's a real synergy in wanting to explore Richmond and build friendships simultaneously. That’s why she’s excited to introduce Let's Hang, a new weekly social group designed to bring people together and foster connections.
Take it away, Elaine ...
Community Walk at Maymont
Join us for a community walk at Maymont! Please arrive 10 minutes early—look for the green signs held by the Let's Hang team at the 1700 Hampton Street entrance. Give yourself extra time to find parking. We'll walk together along the paved path around the park, and hydration will be provided.
Vitals:
Community Walk at Maymont / Wednesday, August 14th, 6:00 - 7:00 pm / Free / 1700 Hampton Street.
Wine Tasting at Barrel Thief
Who doesn’t love a local, educational wine tasting? Join us at Barrel Thief for a private wine tasting featuring four 2oz pours and light snacks—all for just $10! Don’t miss the chance to make new friends and savor some great wine. RSVP information will be released Aug 10th.
Vitals:
Wine Tasting at Barrel Thief / Wednesday, August 21st, 6:00 - 7:00 pm / $10 / 5805 Patterson Avenue.
Richmond Social Hour at The Workshop by T&D
To celebrate our first full month of connecting Richmonders and supporting local businesses, we're hosting a BIG (21+) social hour at The Workshop by T&D in Scott's Addition! Enjoy local drinks and desserts from The Veil, Buskey, and Jiji's Frozen Custard. Everyone is welcome to join and meet new people in the city. Please note that parking is limited, so we recommend ridesharing, walking, or carpooling.
Vitals:
Richmond Social Hour at The Workshop by T&D/ Thursday, August 29th, 6:30 - 8:30 pm / Not ticketed / 1400 Mactavish Avenue.
More from Elaine.
Richmond’s interest groups, niche communities, and events can sometimes be hard to find. Explore the city and make new friends with Let's Hang! This group is open to everyone and will evolve as it grows.
The best way to get involved is through Discord or by following @letshangrva on Instagram. Enjoy a variety of events, from happy hours to specialty gatherings, all while keeping costs low. Need a +1 for an event? Looking for a buddy for the farmers market? Discord offers a public chat with sub-channels where you can create your own meetups and build community at your own pace. Whether you prefer organized weekly events or connecting through activities that interest you, Let’s Hang is your opportunity to meet fellow Richmonders.