Few neighborhoods in Richmond carry the depth of history, culture, and resilience found in Jackson Ward. Tucked along the eastern edge of Broad Street, Jackson Ward was originally established by European immigrants drawn by its proximity to the city’s retail hub....
Category: Spotlight
Black-Owned Businesses in Richmond to Support During Black History Month and Beyond
Black History Month is a time for reflection, celebration, and action. While supporting Black-owned businesses in Richmond should happen year-round, February offers a meaningful opportunity to intentionally recognize the entrepreneurs who continue to shape the city’s...
Libbie & Grove Guide: Where to Eat and Shop Local in Westhampton
Anchoring Richmond’s Near West End, generations of Richmonders have shopped and dined on the avenues of Libbie and Grove. Located in the heart of the Westhampton neighborhood, this charming, walkable collection of locally owned businesses creates a welcoming community...
26 Things to Try in RVA for 2026 (Powered by Local Businesses)
In recent years, Richmond has consistently topped lists naming it one of the best cities and regions to visit, and for good reason. From rich history and a vibrant arts scene to the outdoor playground that surrounds Richmond, there’s truly something for everyone....
Richmond Handcrafted Gifts
When it comes to gift-giving, nothing feels quite as meaningful as something made by hand. Richmond’s vibrant arts community is filled with local makers, studios, and creative spaces producing one-of-a-kind pieces you simply can’t find anywhere else. Whether you're...
Richmond Experience Gifts
Give the gift of memories this holiday season when you gift someone an experience through one of Richmond’s small businesses. An experience gift is perfect for those hard-to-shop-for people on your list and the memories created last long after the gift wrap has been...
Richmond Sustainable Gifts
Richmond is full of incredible consignment, thrift, and resale boutiques where you can find meaningful, affordable, and truly unique gifts. Whether you're shopping for the vintage lover, the stylish friend, or the kid who grows three sizes a season, these local spots...
Richmond Service Gift Guide
Sometimes, the best gift doesn’t come wrapped in a bow. Instead of adding more stuff to the pile, consider gifting an experience or a helpful service that brings joy, convenience, and a bit of everyday luxury. Service gifts are perfect for the busy parent, the friend...
Richmond Holiday Gift Shopping Guide
If you’re looking for meaningful, memorable gifts this holiday season, Richmond’s local shops make it easy to support small businesses while finding something special for everyone on your list. From handcrafted jewelry and stylish accessories to outdoor gear, books,...
Richmond Stocking Stuffer Shopping Guide
Stocking stuffers are often the most fun part of holiday gifting, small treasures, sweet treats, and thoughtful surprises that show you really know someone. Richmond is full of locally owned shops offering unique finds perfect for everyone on your list. Whether...
Your Guide to Halloween in Richmond: Ghost Tours, Pumpkin Patches, Family Fun and More
Halloween in Richmond is packed with spooktacular events, haunted tales, and family-friendly traditions. From pumpkin patches to ghost tours, the season comes alive with spooky fun and a rich dose of haunted history. Whether you’re searching for the best haunted...
Bon Air Neighborhood Guide: Eat, Shop & Explore
Just across the James River from downtown Richmond, Bon Air blends small-town charm with suburban convenience. Originally developed as a resort community in the late 1800s, Bon Air, meaning “good air,” has grown into a vibrant neighborhood filled with locally owned...
Love Story Sparkle: Taylor Swift Inspired Engagement Rings in Richmond
Taylor Swift isn’t settling for paper rings, and neither should you. With her recent engagement sparking inspiration, many Swifties are dreaming of rings that make the whole place shimmer while capturing that same dazzling romance. If you’re searching for a Taylor...
Brookland Park Richmond Neighborhood Guide – Where to Eat, Shop & Explore
Just north of downtown Richmond, the historic neighborhood of Brookland Park blends timeless charm with a wave of fresh energy. Once a thriving streetcar suburb, this area is known for its beautiful late 19th and early 20th-century architecture, tree-lined streets,...
Choose Your RVA Adventure: CustomTailor a Day with the Best Things to Do in Richmond
Richmond is bursting with unique experiences, exciting destinations, and local businesses that make our city come alive. Whether you’re a foodie on the hunt for your next favorite bite, a thrill seeker chasing adrenaline, or someone who wants to soak up culture and...
Furnish and Decorate Your Richmond Home—While Shopping Local
Whether you’re moving into your first apartment, starting fresh in a new home, or simply looking to do a little updating, there’s no better way to make your space truly your own than by furnishing and decorating with pieces from Richmond’s local businesses. From...
Allianz Amphitheater Plans? Here’s Where to Eat First
Richmond’s Riverfront is rockin’ this summer. With the opening of the brand new Allianz Amphitheater, there’s no better place to catch live music in the city. Whether it’s a date night or a night out with friends, kick things off with a bite or drink from one of...
Lick Local: The Scoop on Local Ice Cream in RVA
The official start of summer means one thing in Richmond: ice cream season is finally here. Whether you’re craving a classic cone, a creative flavor combo, or a frozen treat with a twist, Richmond’s locally-owned ice cream shops have you covered. Supporting local...
Your Guide to Kid-Friendly Fun from Richmond’s Local Businesses
School’s officially out for summer— now what? Keeping kids busy all summer can be a challenge, but RVA’s locally owned businesses are here to help. From hands-on learning to active play, there’s no shortage of fun to keep little Richmonders engaged, indoors and out....
Shop Local RVA, Here’s Where to Start
Shopping local doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming— it can start with just one simple swap. Small choices add up, and every time you choose a local, Richmond-owned business over a big-box chain, you're helping keep more dollars in our local economy,...
Shop, Share and Support: Your Guide to Supporting Local RVA Businesses
May is National Small Business Month, and here in Richmond, we’re lucky to have an incredible community of locally owned businesses that shape the heart and soul of our city. From cozy coffee shops and neighborhood boutiques to service providers and creative studios,...
Richmond’s Irish Spirit: Where to Eat, Drink, and Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day
St. Patrick’s Day in Richmond isn’t just about wearing green and raising a pint, it’s an opportunity to reflect on the rich, complex history of the Irish in our city while celebrating the vibrant Irish community that thrives today. From historic struggles to cherished...
Meet Blue Sage Bridal: The Inclusive Boutique Redefining Bridal Shopping for All Brides
Whether you unwrapped a sparkling engagement ring this holiday season or popped the question as the ball dropped on New Year’s Eve, you’re stepping into 2025 freshly engaged and ready to start the search for something truly special: the perfect wedding dress. Among...
2025 Ultimate RVA Bucket List
Richmond is bursting with epic eats, stunning spots, and must-try experiences. Whether you’re a local or just stopping by, RVA’s got something to wow you. How many of our ultimate RVA Bucket List items can you check off in 2025? Visit the new baby hippo at the Metro...
New Year, New Adventures: Embrace New Experiences with Local Businesses
As 2025 approaches, it's the perfect time to embrace the spirit of exploration and try something new. Richmond offers countless opportunities to learn, create, and connect with our vibrant community through local businesses. Whether you’re looking to pick up a new...
Building a Vibrant Richmond by Supporting Local Businesses
Once upon a time, all businesses were local. They weren’t just places to shop or eat; they were born out of necessity, shaped by personal expression, and driven by a desire to create meaning through work. These businesses became the heart of their communities, where...
Around the World in RVA: A Culinary Passport to Richmond’s Global Eats
From Cuban cafes to Irish pubs, Richmond may be small, but it’s packed with the world's vibrant sights, sounds, and flavors. Local businesses, many of which have been opened by global transplants, bring global cultures to our backyard, creating a unique chance to...
Celebrate Women-Owned Businesses in Richmond
Richmond is so fortunate to be filled with businesses owned by dynamic and inspiring women entrepreneurs who fuel our local economy and enrich our community. From cozy cafes and artisan boutiques to innovative and impactful firms, Richmond’s women-owned businesses...
Supporting Hispanic-Owned Businesses Beyond Hispanic Heritage Month
As Hispanic Heritage Month comes to a close, it’s important to take a moment to recognize the lasting impact of Hispanic-owned businesses in Richmond and the importance of supporting them year-round. These businesses are essential not only for the unique cultural...
RVA Shopping & Dining Destination: The Avenues
Richmond's "The Avenues" has long been a beloved destination for charming boutiques and delightful local eateries. Nestled within the residential streets of the Westhampton neighborhood, this retail district spans three vibrant avenues: Libbie, Grove, and Patterson....
RVA Treasure Hunting: Local Thrift, Vintage, and Consignment Shops
Combining the thrill of discovery with sustainable responsibility and economic resourcefulness, thrift stores and vintage resellers are soaring in popularity these days, especially among the Gen Z crowd. Whether you're a seasoned thrifter, a vintage enthusiast, or...
Finger-Lickin’ Good: Five RVA Fried Chicken Spots
Fried chicken, a quintessential summer picnic food, is a Southern staple, and Richmond boasts a plethora of locally-owned eateries that each bring their unique flair to this classic favorite. Grab a drumstick and check out these top spots that offer some of the best...
RVA Dining Guide: Where Richmond’s Business Owners Love to Eat
Richmond has earned its reputation as a haven for food lovers, attracting both visitors and locals to its diverse culinary scene. With countless exceptional eateries, deciding where to dine can be a delightful challenge. To make your choice a bit easier, we've asked...
Shop Local for the Perfect Cookout in RVA
There’s no better way to enjoy the summer than with a classic cookout. Whether you’re hosting or bringing a side dish, Richmond’s local businesses are ready to help you find everything you need for the perfect barbecue. From high-quality meats and fresh produce to...
Sip Local: Richmond’s Must-Visit Craft Distilleries
While Richmond is renowned for its exceptional craft beer scene, it's time to shine the spotlight on the area’s equally impressive craft distilleries. From smooth moonshine to rich whiskey, these distilleries blend old-world techniques with innovative new flavors,...
Local Bookstores Cultivate Community and Connection
Few businesses cultivate a sense of community quite like a local bookstore. From book signings to book clubs, independent bookstores foster connections as much as they encourage a love of reading. Whether you're new to reading for pleasure or a seasoned book worm,...
Celebrating Women’s History Month: A Guide to Supporting Women-Owned Businesses in RVA
Richmond is home to an abundance of women-owned businesses in a wide range of industries, from delightful eateries to unique shopping experiences and engaging activities. There's no better time than Women's History Month to celebrate and support these incredible...
Celebrating Black History Month: Supporting Black-Owned Businesses and Honoring Richmond’s Legacy
Black History Month is not only a time for reflection and celebration of Black history and culture; it's also an opportunity to recognize and support the role of Black entrepreneurship in shaping our community. Richmond stands as a beacon of this entrepreneurial...
RVA’s Handcrafted Holiday: Five Unique Gifts from Local Artists & Makers
This holiday season, Richmond shines as a destination for artful and handcrafted items – perfect for thoughtful gift-giving. Local artisans weave stories and love through their creations, creating much more than simply functional items. We’ve curated a unique list of...
Stocking Stuffer Gems from Local RVA Businesses
What’s a small way you can incorporate more local businesses into your holiday shopping this season? Stocking stuffers! Choosing to shop local for stocking stuffers not only adds unique delights but also supports our community businesses. From charming boutiques to...
Richmond Unwrapped: A Gift Guide to Memorable Experience Gifts in RVA
Give the gift of memories this holiday season when you gift someone an experience through one of Richmond’s small businesses. An experience gift is perfect for those hard-to-shop-for people on your list and the memories created last long after the gift wrap has been...
Timeless Treasures: Unwrap the Joy of Unique Gift-Giving in Richmond’s Resale Wonderland
Discover the joy of unique and enduring gift-giving this holiday season as you explore the diverse collection of consignment and resale stores throughout Richmond. Pre-loved gifts embody thoughtfulness and quality, offering a timeless touch to your presents and a more...
Game Day in RVA: Where to Watch
Whether you’re a lifelong sports fan or just entering your football era, gathering with friends and strangers to enjoy game day food and drinks while cheering for your favorite team is a time-honored tradition. Richmond’s hometown sports teams may be in the minors,...
Ten Local Coffee Shops to Sip on for International Coffee Day
Nestled amongst the historical sites and craft breweries for which Richmond has become known, lies a hidden treasure trove of caffeine havens that awaken the senses and fuel the soul. Richmond’s local coffee shop scene has thrived in recent years, brewing up perfect...
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with These Local Businesses
Hispanic Heritage Month officially kicks off on September 15 and runs through October 15. The month is a time to celebrate the rich culture and contributions of Hispanic Americans. In the Richmond area, the entrepreneurial efforts by those with lineages from Spain,...
RVA Happier Places for the Pups
With more than 170 parks and mild weather year-round, Richmond is a pawsome place for your four-legged friend. Many restaurants, hotels, and local shops are dog-friendly, but sometimes dogs just need a place to call their own. We’re sharing some of our favorite...
11 Kid-Friendly Activity Ideas
Entertaining littles is hard work, especially in Richmond’s summer heat. Luckily, the River City has plenty of locally-owned businesses with fun activities perfect for keeping the tiniest Richmonders entertained, learning, and moving. Continue reading for just a few...
The Scoop on RVA’s Local Ice Cream Shops
The official start of summer marks the unofficial start of something else: ice cream season. The time-honored tradition of grabbing a cool treat on a hot day is only sweetened when you grab that scoop from a locally-owned ice cream shop. Read on for the scoop on six...
Five Finger-Lickin’ Good RVA BBQ Joints
As summer gets underway, millions of Americans will fire up the grill to enjoy a uniquely American, and definitely Southern, culinary tradition: the backyard barbecue. But if you’re looking to enjoy some finger-lickin’ deliciousness without the hours it takes to cook...
Mother’s Day Gift Ideas, RVA Style
Whether celebrating your mom or another special person who has always been there for you, Richmond is filled with opportunities to treat them like the queen they are this Mother’s Day while supporting local businesses. Read on for some of our top picks. For Moms with...
Five Mexican Restaurants for Cinco de Mayo…. or Anytime
In years past, Mexican restaurants in Virginia haven’t exactly been known to be the most authentic. In fact, Virginia Mexican restaurants were perhaps most “famous” for creating their own white sauce, a uniquely Virginian dipping sauce found pretty much exclusively in...
Five Black-Owned Businesses Carrying on Richmond’s Strong Legacy
In honor of Black History Month, we’re spotlighting five of the amazing Black-owned local businesses in Richmond. Richmond has long had a thriving community of Black-owned businesses thanks in part to the resiliency of Jackson Ward neighborhood. Originally established...
Holiday Entertaining Tips from Ladles & Linens
Entertaining this holiday season? Local Richmond business owner Sarah Nicholas knows a thing or two. After seven years in the FBI, Nicholas made a life-changing decision to move to New York City and attend culinary school. Fast forward a few years, and she’s now the...
Five Services Gifts for the Person who has Everything
We've all got someone on our holiday list that just has everything, and if they don't have it, they buy it for themselves before anyone else has a chance to. For people like this, we love to surprise them with gift certificates for services. Services that might be a...
GIFT GUIDE: Gifts for Her
Whether you're shopping for your mom, grandmother, or sister, we're sure you want them to feel the love this holiday season. We've rounded up five timeless gift ideas from local Richmond businesses that pack a punch. Many of these are from women-owned businesses, too!...
GIFT GUIDE: Gifts for Him
If you're like many out there who find it challenging to find unique gifts for the men in your life, we're here to help. We're sharing five fun, unique, and even a couple of handcrafted, gift ideas from local Richmond area businesses that are perfect for that special...
GIFT GUIDE: Five Gifts for Your Host
Bringing along a small token of appreciation for your host or hostess is always a good idea- especially during the season of giving. Host gifts don't have to be elaborate but can be as simple as a nice bottle of wine, or a gift tying into the occasion itself. To help...
GIFT GUIDE: RVA Area Experience Gift Ideas
For a gift that’s both personalized and impactful, experience gifts can offer the perfect solution for those who are often hard to shop for during the holidays. They can be tailored to a person’s interests and offer a double impact combining the gift-giving experience...
Deck the Halls with Help from Local Businesses
While gift guides and event calendars abound this time of the year, there’s perhaps another list that often gets overlooked- the details. While everyone loves a shiny new present and beautiful memories made, the details that go into the season are often just as...
Get to Know By Jacqui Photography… and Pick Up a Few Tips
It’s the most wonderful time of the year… to take pictures. Whether it’s snapping a picture of the changing fall colors in Virginia, or grabbing a family picture for an upcoming holiday card, fall seems to bring out the photographer in many of us. But for local...
LaDiff Begins Next Chapter in Manchester
As they say, the only thing constant is change, and those who cease to evolve will cease to exist. The same is true for businesses, they must continue to assess the current market and customers’ needs and evolve with the times. One local Richmond business understands...























































