DECEMBER 2019
MidlothianLifestyle.com
The Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide
A SEASON OF GENEROSITY
MERRY AND BRIGHT: LANDSCAPE LIGHTING FOR THE HOLIDAYS
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LIFESTYLE LETTER
DECEMBER 2019 PUBLISHER
Aaron Swart | aaron.swart@lifestylepubs.com EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Dana Miller | dana.miller@lifestylepubs.com AD DESIGNER
Chad Jensen
Happy Holidays, Midlothian! THIS LAST YEAR THE SAYING “THE DAYS ARE LONG BUT THE YEARS ARE
LAYOUT DESIGNER
Sara Minor COPY EDITOR
Kate Baxendale
SHORT” REALLY HOLDS TRUE. I am not sure if you feel the same way, but doesn’t
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
each year seem to get busier and busier in this fast-paced lifestyle in which we are
Stephanie Hower, Ginny Ball, M. Katherine Fisher
living? It seems like just yesterday, I was sitting down, compiling my picks for the December 2018 Ultimate Gift Guide. Within a blink of an eye, it’s time to do it again and share so many of my favorite holiday things for the December 2019 issue.
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
EmmiClaire Photography, Jennifer Gavin Photography, MC Mancuso Photography
My hope for this issue is that it helps remind you of the joys the holiday season brings to us all. Whether it’s driving around Midlothian looking at the beautiful holiday lights, participating in a Toys for Tots fundraiser or finding the perfect gift for that someone special on your list, we hope you take the time to enjoy all that this season has to offer—especially in Midlothian! As we head into 2020, I want to thank our readership and partners for joining us on this journey in 2019. The connection to the community this magazine provides
CORPORATE TEAM
to all of us at Midlothian Lifestyle is something truly special. We hope that what you
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
experience within these pages provides you with a connection as well.
CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore
Happy Holidays, Midlothian friends!
ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson EDITORIAL MANAGER Nicolette Martin AD MANAGER Chad Jensen
Dana Miller, Editorial Coordinator
REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell
ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA NEVADA | NEW JERSEY | NORTH CAROLINA | OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON SOUTH CAROLINA | TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON
514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO
ON THE COVER Grounds of the Boathouse at Sunday Park
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MC MANCUSO 4
Midlothian Lifestyle | December 2019
Proverbs 3:5-6
MidlothianLifestyle.com
Midlothian Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Midlothian areas’ most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Midlothian Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.
TRANSFORMING H O M E S & E X P E C TAT I O N S
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INSIDE THE ISSUE DECEMBER 2019
FEATURES 12 Illuminating Designs Landscape Lighting at the Holidays and Throughout the Year to Enhance Your Home's Appeal
18 'Tis the Season for Giving Give Love, Give Joy, Give Local
18 26
26 A Season of Generosity School Supplies and Smiles
12
28 DEPARTMENTS 4
Lifestyle Letter
8
Good Times
10
Around Town
12
Renovate & Refine
26 Giving Back 28 Water & Woods 32 Lifestyle Calendar
Create More Time, Space & Peace Every Day
The Art of Organization AT I TS F I N E ST
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the art of organization
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GOOD TIMES
Magnificent Midlothian Food Festival The Magnificent Midlothian Food Festival presented by Wegmans celebrated 31 years of sharing plates from local restaurants, local craft beer, Virginia wines and more on Oct. 12. All proceeds benefited local charities through Rotary International.
8
Midlothian Lifestyle | December 2019
Dracula: Ballet with a BITE Under the artistic direction of Shannon McConville, Stavna Ballet presented its fifth annual gala, Dracula: Ballet with a BITE, on Thursday, Oct. 17, at the Hippodrome Theater. This enchanted evening featured live music, drinks, dinner, an auction and a ballet performance in support of the Stavna Ballet's performance season and outreach program, StavnaREACH. PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROBERT LINDHOLM
10 lights $2375
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AROUND TOWN long-lasting academic and career success," said James Lane, State Superintendent of Public Instruction. Midlothian was nominated as a high-performing school and one of Virginia's most academically successful schools.
CARMAX TACKY LIGHT RUN Step into a tacky wonderland filled with lights, elves, the big man himself and more! This 6K course shows off Midlothian’s best display of tacky lights —you just wait! You’ll see dozens of homes with over-the-top tacky lights in the Walton Park neighborhood, including the famous Dawnridge Court. Run (or walk) with thousands of other nice-listers and find out the true meaning of holiday spirit. Dec. 14, 4 p.m. starting at American Family Fitness. SportsBacker.org
INAUGURAL COOKIE EXCHANGE + BUILD-YOUR-OWN WOOD TRAY!
The Little Bookshop hosted Shea Tuttle, author of the wonderful book Exactly As You Are: The Life and Faith of Mister Rogers. She graciously shared with her many fans what she learned about Fred Rogers while writing her
Join AR Workshop Richmond for the inaugu-
book. Shea took the time to not only sign books
ral Cookie Exchange + Build-Your-Own Wood
but she also spoke with all of the readers who
Tray! Bake and bring your favorite cookies to
came out to meet her.
share with the class, along with the recipe! Sample, swap and bring home a delicious bag of goodies to enjoy, just in time for holiday enter-
JANET BROWN INTERIORS IS EXPANDING
taining! Also included with this class is your
Coming soon: A newly expanded design studio
choice of a small wood tray, perfect to display
for Janet Brown Interiors at 1124 N. Arthur Ashe
those lovely cookies! Dec. 19, 6:30 p.m., AR
Blvd. The expanded space will be next door to
Workshop Richmond ARWorkshop.com
the current retail shop located in Scott's Addition.
MIDLOTHIAN HIGH SCHOOL NAMED NATIONAL BLUE RIBBON SCHOOL
It will offer complete design services with an emphasis on creating a beautiful home environment filled with color and of course great atten-
The U.S. Department of Education named
tion to detail. All design services will be available
Midlothian High School a National Blue Ribbon
including wallpaper and fabric selection, drapery
School. The high school is one of seven Virginia
fabrication and upholstery services. Monday
schools to be named this year and is the only
through Friday by appointment. 804.358.9548
school in the Richmond area to earn the distinction.
or JFBInteriors@aol.com
"These schools share a common commitment to provide exceptional educational opportuni-
10
AUTHOR SHEA TUTTLE VISITS THE LITTLE BOOKSHOP
RICHMOND TACKY LIGHTS TOUR
ties that will instill in their students a lifelong
Annual traditions are part of what makes the
love of learning that is essential to achieving
holiday season so special, and the Richmond
Midlothian Lifestyle | December 2019
walk on art Tacky Lights Tour is one of many unique ways area residents display their holiday spirit. Each year the houses on the tour up the ante, making the experience feel new every time. That’s what has earned the tour a spotlight on TLC and has made it a popular attraction up and down the East Coast. Whether you’re a seasoned Tacky Lights Tour aficionado or brand-new to the area, the tour experience aboard the Tacky Light Tour buses will quickly make it to the top of your holiday must-do list. James River Transportation: 804.342.7300
IMPORTER OF HANDMADE ORIENTAL RUGS THOUSANDS OF RUGS IN STOCK OF ALL SIZES
We are always accepting submissions for announcements you’d like to see included
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in our Around Town section. Submissions
We Make House Calls
are accepted via the Contact Us tab at
Locally Owned and Operated For 49 Years
MidlothianLifestyle.com.
December 2019 | Midlothian Lifestyle
11
RENOVATE & REFINE
Illuminating Designs LANDSCAPE LIGHTING AT THE HOLIDAYS AND THROUGHOUT THE YEAR TO ENHANCE A HOME'S APPEAL
ARTICLE STEPHANIE HOWER PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
12
Midlothian Lifestyle | December 2019
IN DECEMBER, THE MAGIC OF THE SEASON TRULY SHINES ONCE THE SUN GOES DOWN. Neighborhoods glow with the warm twinkle of holiday lights, transforming homes into merry monuments amidst the dark of night. For Richard Popio, owner of Outdoor Lighting Perspective, the holidays are not the only time of year to implement landscape lighting to brighten a home. “We do uplighting of your home and landscaping, trees, pools, decks,” Richard says. “We try to extend the outdoor life of our clients by providing them with not floodlights, but subtle, warm light.” At OLP, they use light to both illuminate and enhance the aesthetic of a home, elevating lighting to an art form. Originally a client of OLP, Richard assumed ownership of the business two years ago after retiring from the telecom industry. Last year, under Richard’s new ownership, they began offering holiday lighting, which begins in the second week of October. For 2019, they were completely booked through the first
“WE WILL PUT A DESIGN TOGETHER FOR THE CLIENT, PRESENTING THE WHOLE GAMUT OF IDEAS WE HAVE AND TAILOR EVERYTHING TO THEIR NEEDS.”
week of December, while also continuing to complete non-holiday-related projects. Clients may come to OLP with their own ideas for holiday lights, perhaps based on previous years, which they are now unable to construct on their own. Yet, many seek inspiration and suggestions from Richard and his team. “We will put a design together for the client, presenting the whole gamut of ideas we have and tailor everything to their needs,” he says. “We can enhance their own designs as well by adding wrapped trees or lighted garland and wreaths.” Typically, a holiday project takes about five hours for the average Midlothian home, but some larger-scale CONTINUED >
December 2019 | Midlothian Lifestyle
13
RENOVATE & REFINE
(CON TI N U ED)
jobs may take up to three days. Commercial clients include the entrances and clubhouses to Tarrington and Charter Colony and an array of model homes from local builders. OLP works closely with many builders and hardscape contractors throughout the year to help the overall design process and properly showcase finished properties. Richard credits their success largely to his crew of technicians and installers. “I’ve been blessed with the group of guys that I work with,” he attests. “I’ve got six guys total; four have been with me, and two are new. They get excited to see the end results. They work tirelessly to make sure it is done well and it is done right. They will drive by their projects just to see them lit up at night.” Whether landscape lighting or holiday decor, OLP believes in making properties shine. They view each home as a blank canvas. “Working on a project is like an artist painting,” Richard says. “You don’t know the finished picture until you’re done. … but it’s exciting to see the end result.”
14
Midlothian Lifestyle | December 2019
“WORKING ON A PROJECT IS LIKE AN ARTIST PAINTING. YOU DON’T KNOW THE FINISHED PICTURE UNTIL YOU’RE DONE … BUT IT’S EXCITING TO SEE THE END RESULT.”
December 2019 | Midlothian Lifestyle
15
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ARTICLE GINNY BALL
' T I S
T H E
S E A S O N F O R G I V I N G GIVE LOVE, GIVE JOY, GIVE LOCAL THE HOLIDAYS ARE A TIME OF GIVING, AND ONE OF THE WAYS YOU CAN GIVE BACK TO YOUR COMMUNITY IS TO SUPPORT SMALL BUSINESSES. It’s a simple choice that makes a big difference in our community. The heart, the grit, the passion that goes into creating, sustaining and growing a small business is not an easy feat, but it’s also what makes our community so special. Whether you’re looking for a little sparkle, good cheer, your next favorite book or the perfect gift, we hope you feel good knowing that when you buy local, an actual person does a little happy dance. (It’s true—we’ve seen it happen!) 18
Midlothian Lifestyle | December 2019
G I F T S
F O R 1.
Sure, you could easily pick up a gift card, but thoughtful gifts are much more fun to give and receive—we promise. Here are a few of our favorite go-to gifts
2.
for friends, family, teachers and hostess gifts. Happy shopping! Oh, and gifts for yourself are always a good idea (it’s our little secret!) 1. Celebrate Richmond with this great tote perfect for the market, tailgate or potluck dinners. Designed exclusively for Tweed by SCOUT Bags | $28, Tweed at 4035 Lauderdale Drive 2. Keep anything hot or cold with this Straw Tumbler designed by All She Wrote Notes for Mary Square | $17.50 3. Nuts, Dips, Candy, Oh My! Entertaining made easy with the interchange mini for all of life’s celebrations. Designed by Nora Fleming | Triple Dish $32, Penguin Mini $13.50, Tweed at 4035 Lauderdale Drive 4. Spruce up your winter tables with these hand-printed 100% linen napkins. Made in Alexandria, Virginia | $56 (set of 4) 5. Beautifully serve all of your holiday treats with this limited edition nutcracker platter by Rifle Paper Co. | $58 6. Our best-kept secret is now yours: No. 21 Amber & Bergamot Candle | $29 7. For all you RAMS fans out there, the latest design in catstudio’s collection is celebrating one of our favorite hometown teams, VCU! | $21, Sassy Bee at The Shoppes at Belgrade and Tweed at 4035 Lauderdale Drive
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
People Who Are Impossible to Buy For
CONTINUED >
December 2019 | Midlothian Lifestyle
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‘TIS THE SEASON FOR GIVING
(CON TI N U ED)
G I F T S
F O R
the Men in Your Life 2. 1.
3.
4.
Whether it’s your dad, husband, friend 5.
or brother, finding the right gift for the men in your life can be a bit tricky at times. From a customized sign featuring their favorite place to beautiful glassware for his beverage of choice (that you’ll love too!), here are a few gift ideas you’ll feel good giving and he’ll love receiving.
6.
7.
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Midlothian Lifestyle | December 2019
1. Pop the top of your favorite beverage with a little help from Virginia. Made by hand in Brunswick, Georgia, by Grace Graffiti | $24 2. Vintage-inspired glassware by The Modern Home Bar. Designed in Alexandria, Virginia. Made in USA | $62 (set of 4) 3. Single Barrel Bourbon by John J. Bowman Virginia Bourbon. Made in Fredericksburg, Virginia, | Starting at $44, Available at local ABC store 4. Create your own custom sign by Spicher & Company | $99, Gather at 920 Mount Hermon Road 5. A perfect carry-the-day, tough-as-nails soft cooler in new “River” color by YETI | $299.99, Tweed at 4035 Lauderdale Drive 6. The ultimate cooking experience: grill, roast, smoke, bake with The Big Green Egg | Starting at $399, Pleasants Hardware at Midlothian Station 7. Stars & Stripes Pillow by Chandler 4 Corners | $24.95 (8 x 12 inches)
1.
Each item on this page is made, designed (or both!) here in the Richmond area. How lucky are we to live in an area that has such a thriving creative community! As the saying goes, “what you focus on grows.” Giving space and support to these brands not only makes our community stronger but also makes our world even more beautiful. Happy shopping! 1. Lightweight. Bold style. Handmade leather jewelry by KEVA Style. | Starting at $24 2. Celebrating the little ones in your life. Artist Sarah Wiley of Huger Memories uses your child’s outgrown clothing to create this custom portrait. | Framed art: $250; pillow: $295 3. Your cocktails will thank you! Mixing vinegars for spritzers, elixirs and cocktails by MOTHER Shrub. | $12.99, Gather at 920 Mount Hermon Road and Good Foods Grocery in Bon Air 4. Drink Richmond Beer Glass. Designed by Mongrel in Richmond, Virginia | $23.95, Available exclusively at Mongrel in Carytown 5. “A Tree of Cheer” handpainted art by local artist Mary Tooker | $36 (4 by 4 inches) or $44 (6 by 6 inches), Tweed at 4035 Lauderdale Drive and Instagram @mary_tooker 6. Finally, a skinny can cooler. Keeps drinks cold for up to 12 hours. Designed by SWIG Life | $27.95, Tweed at 4035 Lauderdale Drive 7. The perfect blend of citrus and winter spice: Clementine and Clove By Sydney Hale Co. | $28.00, Gather at 920 Mount Hermon Road
5.
2. 3.
4.
6.
7.
MADE WITH LOVE
in our Hometown
CONTINUED >
December 2019 | Midlothian Lifestyle
21
‘TIS THE SEASON FOR GIVING
(CON TI N U ED)
G I F T S
1.
2.
5.
6.
F O R
the Book Lover 3.
4.
Books make the best gifts! What better way to offer your loved ones an enjoyable pursuit with the healthy benefit of promoting less screen time? The Little Bookshop, in Sycamore Square, has thoughtfully selected titles for adults, teenagers and children and always includes free gift wrap. Come enjoy knowledgeable, personalized service in the heart of Midlothian at The Little Bookshop! 1. For the Fan of Fiction: The Dearly Beloved by Cara Wall | $26.99 2. For Lovers of Nonfiction: The Body: A Guide for Occupants by Bill Bryson | $30 3. For Lovers of Historical Fiction, Ages 8-12: Allies by Alan Gratz | $17.99 4. For Moms and Families: 7 Days of Christmas: A Season of Generosity by Jen Hatmaker | $21.99 5. For Young Adults Who Love a Sci-Fi Series: The Toll by Neal Shusterman | $19.99 6. For Young Adults (or Adults) Who Love Historical Fiction: The Fountains of Silence by Ruta Sepetys | $18.99 7. For Children, Ages 4-8: Dasher by Matt Tavares | $17.99
7.
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Midlothian Lifestyle | December 2019
G I F T S
F O R
1. From designer clothes to nutritious treats, Fido's is the favorite luxury shop for dogs and dog lovers. Fido Park Avenue owners Chris and Don Vondriska believe that dogs are not just companions but members of our families. As such, they deserve to be pampered just as much as we do, especially during the holidays. 1. "Scottie in Snow" polyester indoor/outdoor rug | $32.99 2. Holiday festive "Lumps of Coal" peanut butter dog treats | $6.99 3. Holiday dog collars made with ribbon over nylon webbing | $24.99 4. Warm, stretchy designer fleece for the cold weather | $38.99–$51.99 5. Christmas toys | $5 and up 6. Sara England porcelain ornament | $18.99 7. Handmade soft wool sweaters made by Inca artisans | $36.99–$40.99
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Our Furry Friends
CONTINUED >
December 2019 | Midlothian Lifestyle
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‘TIS THE SEASON FOR GIVING
(CON TI N U ED)
G I F T S
F O R
Those Who Love a Little Sparkle
1.
2.
3.
A little sparkle under the tree adds a little sparkle to the eyes! Schwarzschild Jewelers takes great pride in its long-standing part4.
nerships with many of the finest jewelry and watch brands in the world. Cultivating lifelong relationships with clients and
5.
celebrating some of life’s most precious moments with them gives Schwarzchild Jewelers such joy. 1. Lagos stainless steel Smart Caviar watch bracelet | $595 2. John Hardy Dot Collection sterling silver French wire earrings with mother of pearl | $395 3. Memoire 18K white gold diamond “Odessa” hoop earrings | $895 4. Memoire Stack'em Up Collection 18K white gold vintage diamond band | $495 5. Mikimoto 18K white gold "Tin Cup" pearl necklace | $1,300
24
Midlothian Lifestyle | December 2019
BETWEEN SLEEP AND ALL THIS — SLEEP DOESN’T STAND A CHANCE. With so much to do at Brandermill Woods you might find your bedtime getting a little later than normal. Because who wants to hit the sack when you can hit the movie theater, billiards room, fine dining, and more — every single night? Like we said, sleep doesn’t stand a chance. Because
that’s how you do retirement.
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GIVING BACK
ARTICLE STEPHANIE HOWER PHOTOGRAPHY JENNIFER GAVIN PHOTOGRAPHY
a season of generosity SCHOOL SUPPLIES AND SMILES 26
Midlothian Lifestyle | December 2019
T
Year Two Back-to-School Drive
HREE YEARS AGO, JENNIFER GAVIN SOUGHT AN OUTLET THAT WOULD ALLOW
YEAR ONE: $1,000 raised. Donations
HER THE FLEXIBILITY TO CONTINUE STAYING HOME WITH HER TWO CHILDREN.
given to Ettrick Elementary
Recently gifted a camera from her husband, she decided to pursue photography. Yet, with little experience and no clientele, she needed a way to establish herself and her fledgling
YEAR TWO: $3,000 raised. Donations
business, as well as fulfill her desire to give back to the community.
split between Chalkley Elementary and
With a little creativity and a lot of determination, Jennifer hosted her first free “Back-
Reams Road Elementary
to-School” photo sessions. Instead of paying a session fee, clients donated $25 in school supplies. “I decided I’m going to take pictures of the kids, they are going to be free, and we are going to donate supplies to Title 1 schools in our community. … That way, even if they don’t turn
YEAR THREE: $3,000 raised. Donations split between Crenshaw Elementary and Falling Creek Elementary
out, people are giving to a good cause and the session was free,” Jennifer says with a laugh, recalling her initial foray into the world of professional photography.
Each year, Jennifer hosts a contest
Those first clients formed the backbone of her business. She began planning a family
amongst the schools, gifting the
session “Toy Drive” shortly after the success of the August Back-to-School photos, offering
donated supplies to the school with
free family portraits in exchange for a toy donation.
the most votes. Two years in a row,
“Looking back, the pictures were not great,” she admits. “But, there has been a lot of growth in the past three years.” Using the experience and relationships she garnered from those first two events, Jennifer continued to work hard and develop her skill set. Her repertoire now includes weddings,
Providence was a very close second in the voting. In 2020, Providence Elementary will receive the donation of school supplies.
engagements, families and children. Yet, even as her business and art form have flourished, Jennifer has not forgotten the traditions she created in the beginning. While the first round of Back-to-School photos raised $1,000 in school supplies, the second and third years raised $3,000 each. “The Back-to-School sessions are always free with a $25 school supply donation,” she says. “Even in my third year of doing this, I feel that this is how I started my business and how I met everybody that I know now, so this one is always going to be done for free.” Jennifer’s Toy Drive sessions are offered from September through the first week of November each year. Families have the opportunity to schedule discounted sessions for $60 with the donation of a toy, which benefits Toys for Tots or Chesterfield County’s Christmas Mother. “Everybody wins, and that’s why I love it so much,” Jennifer says. “You can bring your children to the store and explain that they are getting supplies or toys for children who may not have the means to get them on their own. Everybody learns a lesson from it, and they feel like they are contributing—especially once they see all of the donations collected.” To view Jennifer's work and stay up to date on her latest events, follow her on Facebook and Instagram @Jennifer Gavin Photography or email her at JenniferGavinPhotography@gmail.com. December 2019 | Midlothian Lifestyle
27
WATER & WOODS
WINTER \IN BLOOM BRIGHTEN UP YOUR AESTHETIC THIS SEASON WITH THIS BEAUTIFUL FLORAL ARRANGEMENT FROM KRISTEN CAISSIE, CREATIVE DIRECTOR AND FOUNDER OF MOON CANYON DESIGN CO.
PHOTOGRAPHY NICKI SEBASTIAN FOR JENNI KAYNE
28
Midlothian Lifestyle | December 2019
KRISTEN CAISSIE, CREATIVE DIRECTOR AND FOUNDER OF MOON CANYON DESIGN CO., created this beautiful flower arrangement as part of Jenni Kayne’s floral encyclopedia. This lush arrangement is comprised of early spring blooms arranged in a ceramic vase. The wabi-sabi aesthetic of the handmade vessel adds to the arrangement’s playful proportions. Earthy yellows, rich greens, and a touch of blue tell a color story that’s unexpected, yet warm and welcoming. Perfectly undone early spring blooms (Kristen’s favorite to design with) emphasize the meeting place of winter and spring. CONTINUED >
December 2019 | Midlothian Lifestyle
29
WATER & WOODS
(CON TI N U ED)
TWEEDIA LADY SLIPPER Characterized by the slippershaped pouch (or labellum) that sits between the petals, these orchids range in color from white and yellow to a deep pink and purple. The lady slipper might take four to sixteen years to produce a bloom, but it’s worth the wait— in comparison to other, more temperamental orchids, this type can be considered fairly low-maintenance.
RANUNCULUS Also known as the buttercup, these spring bloomers are coveted for their delicate layers of petals, resembling ruffled tissue or crepe. In a wide range of vivid shades, ranunculus can bloom from late winter to early summer.
30
Midlothian Lifestyle | December 2019
NARCISSUS Daffodils are instantly recognizable by their six petals surrounding a trumpet-like corona, most often in variances of white, yellow, or both. The ubiquity of the daffodil dates back to ancient times, both medicinally and botanically. They have been said to get their name because the image of languid daffodils along a stream evoke the image of Narcissus gazing into his reflection.
This delicate perennial is coveted for its light fragrance and pale blue star-shaped petals. Found commonly in vines and trellises, tweedias are prime for an arrangement as they cut well and last long.
“It’s very simple, we work with flowers because they speak to us...we tell the stories through a season, a composition, a poetic floral movement.” KRISTEN CAISSIE MOON CANYON FOUNDER
December 2019 | Midlothian Lifestyle
31
DECEMBER
LIFESTYLE CALENDAR
DEC 1–JAN 1
receive a 10% off coupon toward your purchase (excluding artisan items). Monticello.org
LIGHT UP THE TRACKS Downtown Ashland
Downtown Ashland transforms into a vintage Christmas village with “Light Up the Tracks,” a mile-long light dis-
THE BIZARRE BAZAAR 44TH CHRISTMAS COLLECTION
2
Richmond Raceway Complex
The high-quality holiday market place
TREE LIGHTING
will feature more than 500 exhibitors
The Jefferson
selling holiday decorations and gifts,
special events designed to welcome
This time-honored tradition at The
gourmet food lines, handmade and
visitors for a unique small-town hol-
Jefferson is in its 33rd year. The eve-
imported jewelry and accessories,
iday experience. Join us for holiday
ning’s festivities begin with holiday
clothing, toys, quality crafts and fine
sights, sounds, festive Christmas
musical performances followed by
arts, antiques, reproduction and
decorations,
photo
the Tree Lighting Ceremony. It con-
hand-painted furniture, books and
Santa,
cludes with the arrival of Santa and
decorative accessories for the house
high-quality local gifts for shoppers,
Mrs. Claus. Guests will also be the
and garden. BizarreBazaar.com
dining and more.
first to enjoy the annual Gingerbread
play combined with three weeks of
stations,
live
music,
appearances
by
Display
prepared
by
Executive
1
Pastry Chef Sara Ayyash and her
DOMINION ENERGY GARDENFEST OF LIGHTS
5
A holiday tradition featuring more
WINTER WARMER
talented team.
Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden
than half a million twinkling lights,
6 HISTORIC TREE WALK AT HIGHLAND
James Monroe's Highland
Join us for a winter walk with the Charlottesville Area Tree Stewards!
Virginia Distillery Company,
Participants will learn more about
handcrafted botanical decorations,
Visitors Center
Highland’s trees during this free
model trains, holiday dinners, firepit
Warm up with a whiskey tasting
90-minute walk at James Monroe’s
with s’mores and hot chocolate, fam-
(and maybe check off a few holiday
historic property. Learn how to
ily activities and more. The region’s
gifts for your favorite whiskey lovers)
identify trees in the winter using
ultimate holiday extravaganza! The
at the annual Winter Warmer! Live
bark, twigs, form and many other
2019-2020 theme is Magic in the
music, local food truck and specialty
features, as well as how Highland
Air. Enjoy all manner of items that
gifts available. VADistillery.com
trees and tree-ring dating have
move through the air, from natural wonders to man-made inventions to fanciful creatures. LewisGinter.org
contributed to historical interpre-
5
tation. Highland.org
7
1
GARDENFEST FOR FIDOS
HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE AT MONTICELLO
at GardenFest for Fidos! Leashed
Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden
Dogs can enjoy the holiday lights dogs are allowed on select Dominion Energy
Monticello
32
08
GardenFest
of
Lights
COMMONWEALTH’S PEARL HARBOR DAY REMEMBRANCE CEREMONY Virginia War Memorial
Celebrate the beginning of the
nights. Please read the rules and
This
holiday
Monticello’s
guidelines for visiting Lewis Ginter
killed during the attack on Pearl
free Annual Holiday Open House.
Botanical Garden with dogs. Regular
Harbor. Part of the program will be
Be among the first to see Monticello
garden admission; $2 suggested “pet
a “roll call” of all the Virginians who
decorated for the holidays as you
admission” benefiting the Richmond
were lost that day at Pearl Harbor.
stroll through the first floor at your
SPCA. All dogs must be leashed
The "Virginians at War" film Pearl
own pace. Discover unique holiday
and current on rabies vaccina-
Harbor will be shown continuously
gifts at the Shop at Monticello and
tions. LewisGinter.org
in our Reynolds Theater. Co-hosted
season
at
Midlothian Lifestyle | December 2019
ceremony
honors
those
7
8
DOMINION ENERGY CHRISTMAS PARADE
CHRISTMAS WITH AMERICAN COMPOSERS
The 36th annual Dominion Energy
This special event is part of the
Christmas Parade starts at the
church's acclaimed E. Carl Freeman
Science
contin-
Concert Series, a Richmond music
Magnolia Grange Plantation
ues along Broad Street to Seventh
tradition since 1970. Christmas with
Experience holiday traditions as it
Street.
features
American Composers showcases the
would have been celebrated in this
award-winning
bands,
voices of River Road Church's Chancel
majestic house in the 19th and early
dance troupes, giant helium bal-
Choir under the direction of Dr. Robert
20th centuries. Learn about the
loons, floats and legendary Santa
Gallagher, Minister of Music.
foods that would have been served,
himself! This beloved Richmond
gift exchanges and the decor that
tradition attracts 100,000-plus spec-
would have "decked the halls"
tators each year from everywhere
Christmas
Holiday
in Virginia, with thousands more
music, refreshments, a take-home
enjoying the television broadcast on
craft, activities and visit with Santa
CBS 6. RichmondParade.org
with
the
Navy
League
of
the
United States, Richmond Council. VAWarMemorial.org
7
River Road Church
Science Museum of Virginia
OPEN HOUSE AT HISTORICAL MAGNOLIA GRANGE PLANTATION
celebration.
Museum The
and
parade marching
THE HISTORY AND ART OF PRESSED FLOWERS AND LEAVES
COURT END CHRISTMAS John Marshall House
Enjoy free admission to Preservation
that includes free pictures.
7
8
7
Virginia’s
HOLIDAY BOAT PARADE
House tradition. The house will be
House
historic during
gest-running
John
Marshall
Richmond’s Christmas
lonOpen
Hopewell Marina
decked out in holiday cheer, and
The James and Appomattox rivers will
warm
Chesterfield County Museum
twinkle and shine as boaters display
cookies will be available to guests.
Explore the history of this Victorian
their creativity and holiday spirit!
Recipe cards with period foods to
art and learn how to press your own
Boats will depart from the Jordan
inspire holiday cooking are a gift to
plants. After the presentation, partic-
Point Yacht Haven at 5:30 p.m. and will
you. PreservationVirginia.org
ipants will create four bookmarks and
make their way upriver to Anchor Point
a picture from pressed flowers and
Marina. The Hopewell City Marina will
leaves. Registration required.
serve as the main viewing area and will feature entertainment and food
7 THE MAGIC OF HORROR FILM FESTIVAL Firehouse Theater
The creation of a horror film is the creation of the story and the visual
trucks. HopewellRecAndParks.com
8
seasonal
beverages
and
8 VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS AT MAYMONT Maymont
Experience wonders of Christmas past enjoyed by generations! Marvel at the
CHESTER KIWANIS CHRISTMAS PARADE
grand Christmas tree and the beautifully decorated formal rooms. See the gifts and games of 1893 while holiday
Chester YMCA
aspects. Celebrate the writers, the
2019
Christmas
preparations are underway by the
set designers, makeup artists, cin-
Parade! Kiwanis is a global organization
Chester
Kiwanis
butler, cooks and other domestic staff.
ematographers and actors. Official
of volunteers dedicated to changing the
Enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides, vis-
selection short films and feature
world one child and one community at
its with St. Nick, a marketplace of trea-
trailers will be screening through
a time. This year’s parade theme is “A
sures, eats, craft making, festive music
the day with Q&A sessions with the
Red, White and Blue Christmas.” It will
and more. Maymont.org
attending filmmakers.
begin at the Chester YMCA and end at Centre Street/Harrowgate Road.
CONTINUED >
December 2019 | Midlothian Lifestyle
33
DECEMBER
LIFESTYLE CALENDAR
11
via the Modlin Center for the Arts Box
dancers; a DJ; a violinist; and MC
Office.
Kurtis Blow, one of hip-hop’s found-
MAGNOLIA GRANGE CHRISTMAS TEA
23
During this elaborately themed tea,
CHRISTMAS EVE'S EVE TOUR OF HOLLYWOOD CEMETERY
ing fathers, who opens the show with
Magnolia Grange Plantation
learn about the history of the 19th century period of holiday music
Hollywood Cemetery
27 HOLIDAY DREAMS: A SPECTACULAR HOLIDAY CIRQUE!
and the history surrounding various
Let's celebrate the season with
popular Christmas songs. As you
an afternoon tour of Hollywood
step back in time, you will enjoy a
Cemetery. The tour will focus on the
Holograms,
large selection of finger sandwiches,
symbolism of the season! This is a
interactive lasers and award-winning
delightful sweets and an arrange-
walking tour of approximately 2 miles
cirque artists all come together under
ment of various teas. Reservations
and takes 60 to 90 minutes per tour.
to most spectacular holiday production
required. ChesterfieldHistory.com
Three sessions are offered: 9–10:30
show in the world! Holiday Dreams
a.m.;
presents a jaw-dropping, modern
12
p.m.;
and
3–4:30
Altria Theater
projection
mapping,
holiday show featuring cirque artists, comedy, daredevils and a modern
Wilton House Museum
The
12–1:30
p.m. HollywoodCemetery.org
VIRGINIANS WILL DANCE OR DIE December
session
of
the
annual lecture series will feature Joshua LeHuray, adjunct professor
23
soundtrack. AltriaTheater.com
31
CHRISTMAS WITH THE RICHMOND POPS Altria Theater
NEW YEAR'S EVE FAMILY FROLIC
of history and author of Virginians
Richmond's premier holiday tradi-
Will Dance or Die! The Importance
tion! The Richmond Pops Band is
Enjoy
of
Pre-Revolutionary
a community-based organization
afternoon. Live music with the
Williamsburg. Drawing on contempo-
that has been providing exciting
Ululating Mummies, a parade, photo
rary newspaper accounts, this lecture
and dynamic musical experiences
opportunities
will explore how some 18th-century
to the Richmond community for
Keeper, make your own New Year’s
Williamsburg citizens experienced
more than 43 years. As a nonprofit,
party hat, write your wish for 2020
the growing musical world around
all-volunteer
the
and add it to the “wishing chain,"
them. WiltonHouseMuseum.org
band has enjoyed unprecedented
and the annual Garden tradition:
growth and popularity with an
“Rolling in the New Year” by rolling
18
ever-increasing and diverse audi-
down the hill to the Cochrane Rose
ence. AltriaTheater.com
Garden. LewisGinter.org
VIENNA BOYS CHOIR IN RICHMOND
26
The gifted singers of the Vienna Boys
HIP-HOP NUTCRACKER
Music
in
Richmond's First Baptist Church
Choir have been praised for their
34
a short set. AltriaTheater.com
organization,
Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden
fun
family
with
activities
the
all
Garden
Altria Theater
celestial voices, rapturous harmonies,
A holiday mash-up for the whole fam-
pure tone, irresistible charm, and,
ily. Directed and choreographed by
We are always accepting sub-
above all, a wide-ranging repertoire
Jennifer Weber, it is a contemporary
missions for events you'd like to
spanning centuries. Co-presented
dance spectacle set to Tchaikovsky’s
see included in our Calendar sec-
by Virginia Arts Festival and Modlin
timeless music. This evening-length
tion. Submissions are accepted
Center for the Arts, University of
production is performed by a super-
via
Richmond. Tickets may be purchased
charged cast of a dozen all-star
MidlothianLifestyle.com.
Midlothian Lifestyle | December 2019
the
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