Meet this week's guest editor, Jeff Bybee, here to encourage you to jump into July with a handful of recommendations. First, a little bit about Jeff.
After working various marketing and production roles forever in NYC; he needed a change. Friends persuaded him to come back to RVA for a weekend trip, and long story short, he returned to the place that had been his home away from home for a third and final time. He began to find his way around town again and started producing at Hue+Cry; more on that below. Skip seven years and now as the Executive Producer, he still gets to work in animation, collaborating with some of the industry's finest talents. Richmond's creative community, brimming with artists, musicians, and filmmakers, has flourished over time and Jeff feels right at home.
Jeff and his husband, Chris, live in the Oxford/Bon Air area with their adorably sassy Brussels Griffon pup, Rocky. Jeff has a huge love for all things art, music, and film, and is a classically trained musician who recently performed with the Richmond Philharmonic. He also has a lifelong enthusiasm for all things horror—the gorier, the better—and has ventured into special effects makeup, with his work featured in commercials, short films, and video game trailers.
Take it away, Jeff ...
RVA Square Dance at Studio Two Three
Creative juggernaut Studio Two Three is at it again; this time square dancing is on the menu. Yeehaw!!
I love spending time in their newly renovated flagship studio in Manchester and what better way to not only come and support this wonderful organization but also learn the ABCs of square dancing? If you already know how to hoe down; come and strut your stuff! All ages welcome and open to the public!
From their humble beginnings operating as a mobile silk screen truck, the staff at Studio Two-Three truly know how to host an event by engaging and bringing communities together through art, education and fun!
Vitals:
RVA Square Dance at Studio Two Three / Saturday, July 13 from 1:00 - 4:00 pm / open to the public, suggested contribution of $5 - $10 / Studio Two Three, 109 W 15th Street
Photo courtesy of Studio Two Three
Haunted Ashland History Ghost Tour
In addition to loving all things animation, I'm also a huge fan of all things horror and spooky. Although it's not Halloween season just yet, there are several creepy things that happen throughout the year here in the area. One not to be missed is the Haunted Ashland History Ghost Tour!
Located in downtown Ashland, once night falls, you'll hear stories of this historic town that celebrate it's fascinating, yet twisted history. Brought to you by the local masters of macabre; the Red Vein Army, this July is a special one as the attraction celebrates five years! Use code: BOODAY24 all month long to save 20% on tickets.
I love art, and this month there are two exhibitions happening concurrently at the Iridian Gallery; Julian Cobb's Limitations of Isolation, and Arista Alanis' Eureka!
Julian Cobb, a visual artist, works primarily with mold making, metal, and wood. Her dark pieces draw inspiration from Chinese mythology, comic books, and films. In contrast, Arista Alanis offers bright, colorful abstract works inspired by her Mexican heritage and life experiences.
As part of Diversity Richmond, Iridian is the South's only LGBTQ+ gallery and one of the few in the country. It regularly features poignant and forward-thinking exhibits. Don't miss their "Bling It Out" auction this fall—it's always a hit.
Vitals:
Art Exibitions at Iridian Gallery / Monday - Sunday, 10:00 - 6:00 pm / free and open to the public / 1407 Sherwood Avenue
Photo courtesy of diveristyrichmond.org
More about Hue+Cry.
Originally born out of the Martin Agency, Hue+Cry thrives as an independent animation and design studio with an acute focus on Animation (2D, 3D and motion graphics) as well as brand design and strategy.
We've worked with some of the best agencies on the planet including Ogilvy, Publicis, McCann and BBDO with such well-known brands as Yahoo, Oreo and Zillow.
Our team is constantly looking to diversify our client offerings; particularly with re-branding in order to refresh their current look and identity.
Additionally, this year is a huge milestone for Hue+Cry, as we're celebrating our ten-year anniversary and we'll be posting more about later this year. I can say that while the advertising landscape is constantly changing; it’s an exciting time to do what we do.
Meet our guest editor duo this week, Vana Chupp and Theodora Miller of the STUΔIO! Vana Chupp began her love for silhouette art in 2008, growing from a small Etsy shop to a global business creating heirloom pieces. She transforms favorite photos into exquisite jewelry and personal accessories, consulting directly with clients to ensure each piece evokes lasting memories. Her work has been featured in Forbes, Glamour, and The New York Times. Born in Albania, Vana came to the U.S. over 25 years ago. She holds a Master’s in Architecture, enjoys hand illustrating, and is fluent in Greek and Albanian. Married to her college sweetheart Aaron, they have two boys and love traveling to Greece and Albania.
Theodora Miller turned to artful living as part of her healing after a traumatic brain injury. Now a thriving artist, ceramicist, and surface designer, her work draws inspiration from emotions, nature, Greek heritage, and ancient symbols. Her creations are featured in corporate collections and homes worldwide. Theodora is the daughter of a Greek immigrant and a member of Saints Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Cathedral. She lives in the Fan with her husband George, a cycling enthusiast, and their two bulldogs. They have three grown children and she is co-hosting the Art of Living Well Retreat in Greece this October.
Vana and Theodora, bonded by their Greek heritage and creative entrepreneurial journeys, have created a shared space in the historic Fan District. The STUΔIO, located at 2510 W. Main Street, is a hub for their artistic brands. Here, they offer client consultations, studio visits, workshops, pop-ups, and special events. Open by appointment, the STUΔIO embodies their commitment to creativity and connection. Learn more at studio-2510.com.
Take it away, Vana and Theodora ...
PopUp RVA at The Diamond
Don’t miss RVA’s Largest Weekly Vendor Market! This vibrant market features local artisans, crafters, and businesses (50-60 businesses), along with food trucks, live music and a bar. Support the backbone of our local economy and shop small!
Vitals:
PopUpRVA at The Diamond / Saturdays through October, 10:00 am - 3:00 pm / Free and open to the public / The Diamond, 3001 N. Arthur Ashe Boulevard, Red Lot
VMFA Exhibit - Samurai Armor
Immerse yourself in samurai history at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA)! Explore Japan’s exquisite armor collection, featuring over 140 ceremonial pieces from the Edo period. This exhibit showcases the artistry and evolution of samurai armor, offering a glimpse into the world of this elite warrior class. The exhibition is part of the Ann and Gabriel-Mueller Museum Collection.
Celebrate the 248th Anniversary of America’s Independence by welcoming candidates for citizenship taking their Oath of Allegiance in the beautiful Commonwealth Hall of the Virginia Museum of History and Culture. Join in the free festivities following the Naturalization Ceremony.
The naturalization ceremony is held in partnership with the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia and the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Schedule of Events:
11:00 am - 12:00 pm: Naturalization Ceremony officiated by Judge Roger Gregory (held inside the Robins Family Forum with limited seating)
12:00 pm - 1:00 pm: Celebrate America's newest citizens with Ukrop's cake and lemonade in Commonwealth Hall and live music
12:00 pm - 2:00 pm: American Treasures on display in the VMHC Library and in-gallery scavenger hunt
STUΔIO Play Dates: even adults need a play date! Spend an evening at the STUΔΙΟ flexing your creative muscle. Draw, illustrate, or collage your favorite summer memories. We provide the space, art supplies and friendly fellowship. Bring any personal photos or magazines (that you would like to incorporate) and an open heart. No set art project; consider this art without rules allowing you to be carefree and creative just for fun with other like-minded souls. Beverages will be served.
July 23, 6-8 pm
August 22, 6-8 pm
Sign up for the STUΔΙΟ email list to find out when play date registration opens.
The STUΔIO is the artistic home of Vana Chupp Studio and Theodora Miller brands. Beyond creating and working in this light-filled space in the heart of the historic Fan District, they share their talents with others through client consultations, appointments, studio visits, workshops, pop-ups and special events.
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.
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