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.
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.
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