Midlothian, VA February 2021

F E B R UA RY 2 02 1

ARTS & M AKE RS LI F E + C U LTU R E HAPP Y G AL EN T I N E'S! HOME + DESIGN CAN D L E C O L L AB O R AT I O N FAN TAS T I C F LO O RS

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

FEBRUARY 2021 PUBLISHER

Aaron Swart | aaron.swart@lifestylepubs.com EDITOR

It's February, Midlothian!

Mary Ellin Arch | maryellin.arch@lifestylepubs.com STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Emily Alwood, EmmiClaire Photography hello@emmiclaire.com

SO, HOW ARE THOSE NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS COMING ALONG? Here’s

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

hoping you are in the midst of accomplishing your goals and are ready for the oppor-

Emily Alwood | hello@emmiclaire.com

tunities 2021 brings to us! With the weather still a bit unpredictable and the schedules going crazy, we relish in the challenge of bringing you a wonderful issue full of local

PUBLISHER A SSISTANT

crafts persons who encourage and motivate us to go after our dreams.

Meghan Butcher, The Dirty Blonde Stylist thedirtyblondestylist@gmail.com

With that, welcome to the Arts + Makers Issue, one sure to inspire ideas around beau-

Matthew Endersbe

tiful outdoor innovations for your decks and porches, luxurious candles with a story to

L AYO UT DESIGNER

AD DESIGNER

tell (including one we designed especially for Midothian!), custom flooring that is quite exclusive and offered in our hometown, and much, much more. We really loved putting this issue together for you, our readers!

Kelsey Proctor CONTRIBUTING WRITER

M. Katherine Fisher, fisher.katherine@gmail.com

Take this copy with you to your favorite room and chair, sit back, and enjoy learning more about who and what makes our local community come together - small business owners who call Midlothian home and display incredible talent and creativity through their crafts. We are so very lucky to know them and you, and we encourage everyone to shop local whenever possible- we are stronger together as we support local!

With a grateful spirit,

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson AD MANAGER Chad Jensen REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

Aaron Swart, Publisher

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MASSACHUSETTS | MICHIGAN MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA | NEW JERSEY | NORTH CAROLINA OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON | PENNSYLVANIA | SOUTH CAROLINA TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

CityLifestyle.com/Midlothian ON THE COVER Photography by Meghan Butcher.

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Midlothian Lifestyle | February 2021

Proverbs 3:5-6 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.

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INSIDE THE ISSUE FEBRUARY 2021

FEATURES 12 Fantastic Floors The Floor Store's house-brand waterproof vinyl planking has built an immediate and enthusiastic customer base

16 You Go, Girls!

Let your girlfriends know how much you care by throwing a Galentine's Day bash!

20 Candle Collaboration Couple's custom, handcrafted candles evoke the ambience of iconic places and the scents of a peaceful home

16 20

26 From the Ground Up When Deck Innovators build a deck, it’s anything but ordinary

12

26

DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

8

Good Times

10

Around Town

12

Locally Owned

16

Trend Setter

20 Artist’s Palette 26 Renovate & Refine 30 DIY 32 Lifestyle Calendar

SPRING IS COMING!

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We also offer lawn care, pruning, and regular maintenance.

Contact us today for your free consultation.

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EXPERIENCE OUR BEAUTIFUL NEW COMMUNITY

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* Actual

photos of community and residents

OPENING EARLY 2021 CityLifestyle.com/Midlothian

7

GOOD TIMES

Tacky Light Run 2020 Although different due to COVID considerations, the 2020 CarMax Tacky Light Run kept the running tradition alive while also supporting the safety of participants and spreading joy. The multi-night event featured five courses spread throughout the region and included: Walton Park, Deer Run, the Museum District, Ashcreek, and Glen Allen.

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Midlothian Lifestyle | February 2021

Hallsley Salutes Delivery Driver The residents of Hallsley paid tribute to UPS driver Anthony Gaskin, who has served the community faithfully during the coronavirus pandemic and through the holidays. Photographer Lexi Hanrahan's photos went viral, appearing with a story on WTVR Channel 6 and then spreading to the usual social media outlets including the professional site LinkedIn. Kudos to Mr. Gaskin and to Hallsley!

The Floor Store makes your

flooring purchase easy Full Bathroom Renovations / Great Pricing / Large Inventory Professional Sales Team / Quick Turn Around

Call Today for a Free In-Home Estimate

Carpet | Hardwood | Laminate | Tile | Luxury Vinyl | Vinyl | Natural Stone | Glass Tile | Cork

(804) 464-4338

TheFloorStoreRVA.com

1281 Carmia Way Bon Air, Virginia 23235 CityLifestyle.com/Midlothian

9

AROUND TOWN

BAXTER PERKINSON CENTER MAKES DEBUT The Baxter Perkinson Center for the Arts & Education is finally a reality.

The center, the region's first public

walk on art

performing and visual arts center to be built from the ground up in the last century, held a virtual livestreamed grand opening in December.

Located next to the Chester Library, the $16.9 million, 25,500-square-foot center features a 354-seat theater with a 35- by 27-foot stage, an art gallery, a 1,500-square-foot multipurpose education center with attached patio, a classroom, and a suite of amenities for touring artists including a green room, chorus dressing rooms, and star dressing rooms.

The center will feature a variety of artists and performers from around the region and the world. It also will be available for rentals for weddings, private parties and corporate functions.

The center is managed by the Chesterfield Cultural Arts Foundation.

For more information: https://www. perkinsoncenter.org/

NEW MAGNOLIA GREEN FIRE STATION OPEN Fire and EMS Station 25 in Magnolia Green opened late last year after a small, physically distanced opening ceremony.

The station covers 74 square miles, serves 10,599 addresses, and pro-

IMPORTER OF HANDMADE ORIENTAL RUGS THOUSANDS OF RUGS IN STOCK OF ALL SIZES

tects 170 miles of roads.

MERCEDES-BENZ DEALERSHIPS DONATE $35,500 TO SUPPORT RVA RESTAURANTS & FEEDMORE Mercedes-Benz of Richmond and Mercedes-Benz of Midlothian donated $26,100 in gift cards to 30 locally owned

9944 MIDLOTHIAN TNPK., RICHMOND 804.323.5540

We Make House Calls

Locally Owned and Operated For 50 Years

restaurants during a fourth-quarter 2020 promotion to celebrate the dealerships’ 60th anniversary.

Anyone who purchased a new or pre-owned vehicle from either dealership in October, November or

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Midlothian Lifestyle | February 2021

December received a $100 gift card to a Richmond-area restaurant that was recommended by employees, customers and the public. Buyers also could choose to make a $100 contribution to FeedMore instead of getting a gift card, which has resulted in donations to the food bank of more than $9,400 through Nov. 30, 2020 with more expected in December.

Supported Demi’s

restaurants

Mediterranean

include: Kitchen,

Spoonbread Bistro, Natalie’s Taste of Lebanon, Moore Street Café, Rowland’s, Hogshead Café, Stella’s, Mama Cucina, Millie’s Diner, Sergio’s Pizza, Belle Greek Authentic Grill, Flyin’ Pig, Wild Ginger, The Grill at Waterford, Tarrant’s Café, Zorba’s, Portico, Buzz and Ned’s Real BBQ, Red Salt Chophouse and Sushi, The Boathouse, Qui’s Café, Tazza Kitchen, La Cucina, Ma Michele’s Café, The Hard Shell, Angelo’s Italian, Southbound, Pescados Seafood, The Brick House Diner, and Lunch. Supper!

BANFF MOUNTAIN FILM FESTIVAL NOW VIRTUAL Experience the adventure from home! The Banff Centre has created the opportunity to view programs with prepackaged films from the 2020 Banff Centre Mountain Film Festival through their Vimeo platform.

Two online programs are currently available for $15 per program or $28 for the two-program bundle. An additional

We’ll Create Your Backyard Bliss!

Invigorate Your Health-Innovate Your Backyard Oasis!

804-503-2550 » DeckInnovators.com

film program is planned to be added in February and possibly again in April.

All these programs will remain available

for

purchase

until

October 24, 2021. For information: https://filmfest.banffcentre.ca/

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Would you like to get in touch with us? We would love to hear from you!

Contact us at CityLifestyle.com/ Midlothian using the Get In Touch link and let us know what you think.

CityLifestyle.com/Midlothian

11

LOCALLY OWNED

fantastic floors

THE FLOOR STORE'S HOUSE-BRAND WATERPROOF VINYL PLANKING HAS BUILT AN IMMEDIATE AND ENTHUSIASTIC CUSTOMER BASE

ARTICLE MARY ELLIN ARCH PHOTOGRAPHY EMILY ALWOOD, EMMICLAIRE PHOTOGRAPHY

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Midlothian Lifestyle | February 2021

" People come t o an in-st ock st ore bec ause t hey want value and avail ability. W it h our cust om brand, t hey also get somet hing you c an' t just go anywhere in t own and buy."

If a man can write a better book, preach a bet-

The flooring – presented in custom-de-

ter sermon or make a better mouse trap than

signed navy packaging with a Floor Store

his neighbors, though he builds his house in

label – is priced at an entry-level $2.29 per

the woods, the world will make a beaten path

square foot, which is a big reason for the

to his door. ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson, The Value

demand. Capital, with flat plank edges,

of Good Work

comes in four custom neutrals – Cheyenne, Charleston, Santa Fe and Albany. TownScape,

ROBBIE BOLT DOESN’T MAKE MOUSE

with painted beveled edges, comes in four

TRAPS, AND HIS STORE ISN’T IN THE

additional custom neutrals – Savannah,

WOODS. Still, customers beat a path to his

Nashville, New Haven and Helena.

Midlothian store, attracted by his affordable,

Yes, those are state capitals. The flooring’s

custom house-brand waterproof vinyl flooring.

designer suggested a theme for the product

So many came and bought, in fact, that

names, and Robbie said his team had fun

the new flooring sold out just weeks after its

matching colors to capitals.

September debut, and was backordered for

All eight house-brand products are pre-

most of last fall. (Never fear, though – it’s back,

sented on The Floor Store’s custom 4-foot-

and in much larger quantities.)

square displays and on portable hand-boards.

Robbie, owner of The Floor Store, recalled

As with all Floor Store products, it’s all in stock.

pondering how much of his new flooring to

Everything about the flooring is custom –

stock. It had been a year-long process through

patterns, texture, colors, locking system. Even

design to manufacturing, and he remembered

the backing, a sound-deadening rubber, is

pausing at this critical final step.

custom – attached to the planking and thus

“We weren’t sure how it would sell,” he confessed. “It’s hard to commit to a large quantity of a custom product. It’s a large enterprise.”

included in the price – a plus, when other companies charge extra for backing.

“Being a new business, we wanted some

He smiled. “We sold 50,000 square feet in

exclusivity on product, to set us apart,” Robbie

less than 90 days. Just our product.” He smiled

said. “We wanted a good price. This is an

again. “That’s a lot.”

entry-level item geared toward $150,000-

While the flooring was backordered from

$400,000 homes.”

October to Thanksgiving, “people were still buy-

He added, “We targeted that market. Our

ing and waiting for it,” Robbie said. As you might

store is focused on value. People come to

imagine, Robbie’s second order was larger –

an in-stock store because they want value

200 pallets, or 300,000 square feet, a quantity

and availability. With our brand, they also

that required a second warehouse on Research

get something you can’t just go anywhere in

Road, and trucks to travel back and forth daily.

town and buy.”

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Midlothian

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LOCALLY OWNED (CONTINUED) Careful consideration went into the project throughout. “We thought about this even before opening the store,” Robbie said. “We wanted a specific look, a mixture of rustic and modern. We wanted texture, with cracks and knots you can feel. We wouldn’t sacrifice that. Some higher-priced products by brand-name companies don’t have the realistic feel of our brand.”

Like all waterproof flooring, The Floor Store brand resists scratching and odors, so is a good choice for pet owners. “If you spill on it, it won’t stain,” Robbie said. It also features a branded locking system so planks won’t pull apart.

Carlos Rivera, executive director of New Life for Adults and Youth, a training facility teaching life and trade skills to men and women recovering from addiction and trauma, is an enthusiastic Floor Store customer. He has purchased the new house-brand product for construction projects involving his students.

“Our students love it,” Carlos said. “It’s easy to work with, very easy to put down, and the price is fantastic, it’s so reasonable. It’s very durable; I recommend it highly.”

Robbie Bolt and Carlos Rivera

DETAILS: The Floor Store 1281 Carmia Way, Richmond (804) 409-3628 https://www.thefloorstorerva.com/

Robbie Bolt

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Midlothian Lifestyle | February 2021

CityLifestyle.com/Midlothian

15

TREND SETTER

YOU G O, GI R L S !

LET YOUR GIRLFRIENDS KNOW HOW MUCH THEY MEAN TO YOU BY THROWING A GALENTINE'S DAY BASH!

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Midlothian Lifestyle | February 2021

ARTICLE MEGHAN BUTCHER, THE DIRTY BLONDE STYLIST PHOTOGRAPHY MEGHAN BUTCHER, SHUTTERSTOCK

GALENTINE’S DAY IS THE OFFICIAL CELEBRATION

favorites include “What’s in Your Purse?” and “How Well

OF WOMEN SUPPORTING WOMEN. Celebrated on

Do You Know Your Friends?” (also known as “Who Is Most

February 13, the day before Valentine’s Day, it’s a day for

Likely To...?”). You can find easy printable game sheets on

celebrating the love you have for your lady friends. This

Etsy for simple games that get everyone involved.

calls for a celebration, if you ask me! Here are four key pieces to throwing a successful Galentine’s party.

THE DECOR

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION

you host, is with a beautiful tablescape. Here are three

A quick way to incorporate your theme, no matter where Galentine’s is all about bringing ladies together to cel-

elements to add to your party for that sweet and girly feel:

ebrate, so depending on your guest list this will play into

+ Fresh flowers – pink roses, hydrangeas or peonies

your venue selection. Personally, I love a cute restaurant

+ Balloons

with a brunch menu, like The Brick House Diner or First

+ Individualized table settings, such as a festive cocktail

Watch. Make sure to call for reservations and set up your

napkin, place card or candy waiting at each seat.

décor in advance. If you want a more intimate setting, or if COVID concerns or mandates rule out a restaurant venue, bring the party home.

To really set the mood, don’t forget your Galentine’s playlist. There are ready-made playlists out there that really bring the girl jams for you and your guests!

THE MENU A classic Galentines always has brunch – why stray from tradition? If you’re celebrating at home, here are my favorite Galentine’s menu choices:

DRESS CODE Be it casual or formal, this type of celebration can bring out some fun looks! Especially this year, I love any

+ Mini Chicken and waffles

excuse to change out of sweatpants and get dolled up.

+ Bacon

Why not take this opportunity to go all out? Not sure

+ Heart-shaped sunny-side-up eggs

where to begin? Start with sweet colors – pale pink, red,

+ Fresh-cut fruit (in heart shapes if you’re feeling “extra”)

white, silver or gold. When in doubt, give it that extra

+ Mini donuts (displayed)

effort: heels instead of flats, curled instead of straight-

+ Fruit-infused water

ened, a dress instead of jeans. As long as you feel confi-

+ Mimosas with fresh fruit slices (or a mimosa bar)

dent, you’re all set for Galentines!

No matter how you celebrate your ladies this year, be

GAMES AND ACTIVITIES I always include entertainment in my parties. Games that involve the entire group are always fun. Some of my

sure to let them know how much you appreciate them and their friendship. Celebrate Galentine’s Day! thediryblondestylist.com CityLifestyle.com/Midlothian

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Midlothian Lifestyle | February 2021

CityLifestyle.com/Midlothian

19

ARTIST’S PALETTE

candle collaboration ARTICLE MARY ELLIN ARCH | PHOTOGRAPHY

EMILY ALWOOD, EMMICLAIRE PHOTOGRAPHY

COUPLE'S CUSTOM, HANDCRAFTED CANDLES EVOKE THE AMBIENCE OF ICONIC PLACES AND THE SCENTS OF A PEACEFUL HOME

A DISAPPOINTING EXPERIENCE WITH AN ANNI-

We were so frustrated. And I said to Reggie, ‘You know,

VERSARY GIFT WAS THE IMPETUS FOR HILL AND

we could make our own candles.’”

RIVER COLLECTION, A NEW AREA SMALL BUSI-

A few months later, Kena Yuille-Odrick and Reggie Odrick

NESS SPECIALIZING IN HAND-CRAFTED SCENTED

launched Hill and River Collection in their kitchen, melting

CANDLES WITH A LOCAL TWIST.

wax on the stovetop and cutting wax on the countertop. A

“Our one-year wedding anniversary was in March, and I bought Reggie a candle,” Kena recalled. “It had a nice saying on it, but we couldn’t smell anything.

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Midlothian Lifestyle | February 2021

full batch of 27 candles takes about an hour to produce.

“Our house is getting smaller because our inventory is getting bigger,” Kena said.

Scents are added to the wax by adding various oils. “Kena leaves the scent profiling to me,” said Reggie, who boasts 140 separate colognes in his collection, organized on shelves and in boxes. “I love

The names all evoke the ambience of iconic Virginia places, such

scents, so now I get to explore. That’s one of our favorite parts of

as Appalachian Autumn, a toasted pumpkin spice scent with hints of

the business – mixing and matching the scents and coming up with

buttercream, cinnamon and nutmeg; Route 29, a blend of gin, cypress

combinations that people might not think of.”

and cedar; Sandbridge Beach House, with the aroma of citrus and

The company name holds special meaning to the candle-making couple. “Home” to them means Lynchburg, nicknamed the Hill City, and Richmond, known as River City.

musk; and Summer on Oregon Hill, a mix of bamboo and oakmoss.

Each 8-ounce ivory candle is hand-poured into straight-sided amber or black glass jars. Candles are made by hand in small

“We see ‘home’ as a place of peace and comfort, and our can-

batches – no machine processing. Each also sports a wooden wick,

dles welcome a peaceful environment,” the couple says on the Hill

which lasts longer than a traditional cotton wick and makes a crack-

and River Collection website, www.hillandrivercollection.com. “A

ing sound as it burns. “Every time you light our candles, you will feel

majority of our candle names are related to our home cities, or some-

like you are fireside,” the couple promise on their website. Finally,

where within the state of Virginia.”

each candle comes beautifully finished with a custom label.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Midlothian

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ARTIST’S PALETTE (CONTINUED)

“Coming up with Hill and River Collection was a saving grace. It allowed us to do something together.” - Kena Yuille-Odrick In addition to the 8-ounce candles, the couple produces wax melts,

be exclusive to the magazine. “We’ll be giving out these unique and

and during the Christmas season offered a “Winter Flight” of four

gorgeous candles during magazine events, and presenting them as

4-ounce candle tins featuring a collection of smoky, spicy, sweet and

gifts to our valued partners,” Aaron said.

holiday-centric scents. The Winter Flights sold out before Christmas.

The couple plans to launch two Valentine’s Day-themed candles this month, sold as a pair for $50 or separately for $30 each.

Reggie and Kena also offer special candle services, including wholesale pricing on signature scents, and a custom option that allows organizations to commission a specific candle (with custom scent, name, label and jar) to sell under its brand or in connection with a special event.

For example, Midlothian Lifestyle publisher Aaron Swart commissioned the “Oh So Midlo™” candle with a winter scent, which will

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Midlothian Lifestyle | February 2021

A very special custom candle memorialized the couple’s son, Reid, who died shortly after his birth in December 2019. “Reid’s Vacation” was released last October during Infant and Pregnancy Loss Awareness Month and sold out quickly.

“Coming up with Hill and River Collection was a saving grace,” Kena said. “It allowed us to do something together.”

Hill and River Collection candles can be ordered online on the company’s website, and Kena and Reggie can be contacted via the website or social media. The company plans to attend local markets and fairs in 2021 for additional in-person sales.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Midlothian

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ARTIST’S PALETTE (CONTINUED)

www.hillandrivercollection.com sales@hillandrivercollection.com Facebook: Hill and River Collection Instagram: @hillandrivercollection

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Midlothian Lifestyle | February 2021

M a t h

|

R e a d i n g

|

W r i t i n g

|

T e s t

P r e p

Regular updates keep parents informed of progress Proven curriculum fills skill gaps & advances knowledge The support of our experienced tutors boost confidence and improve grades

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S c h o o l

S u p p o r t

F R E E A C A D E M I C W I T H

T H E

A S S E S S M E N T M E N T I O N

T H I S

2423 Charter Colony Parkway

|

O F

A D

Midlothian 804-220-6777

RICK FLEMING (804) 356-6222 ushagent.com/rickfleming 901 Moorefield Park Dr Ste 105 Richmond Va. ,232336 CityLifestyle.com/Midlothian

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RENOVATE & REFINE + https://deckinnovators.com/ + 804-503-2550 + Weekdays: 7 a.m.-7 p.m. + Weekends: By appointment + Serving Greater Richmond, Charlottesville and the Northern Neck

ARTICLE MARY ELLIN ARCH PHOTOGRAPHY EMILY ALWOOD, PROVIDED

WHEN DECK INNOVATORS BUILD A DECK, IT'S FUNCTIONAL AND FAMILY-FRIENDLY AND ANYTHING BUT ORDINARY 26

Midlothian Lifestyle | February 2021

from the ground up

“We don’t just bu i ld decks; we i n novate them.” – La nce Sn iatkowsk i WHEN LANCE SNIATKOWSKI BUILDS A DECK, IT WON’T

and the property, get measurements, and design around that,”

BE ORDINARY.

Lance said. “Plus, it’s a little more personable for the customer.”

“We’re a custom deck company,” said Lance, owner of

Lance offers three types of decking material – wood, PVC

Deck Innovators of Midlothian. “We don’t just build decks; we

and composite – but prefers and recommends the manmade

innovate them.”

materials. “I don’t like building wood decks for families with

Lance’s custom decks often feature multiple levels and spot

children and pets, because of the splinters,” Lance said.

lighting on steps. Some even feature custom curved edges.

Because decks made of wood are cheapest to build, they’re

“Composite and PVC decking materials will bend, allowing the

often requested by builders who come to Lance’s company for

construction of a radius deck,” Lance said.

the deck portion of new home projects.

Other custom elements can involve merging the deck with

PVC decking is made of recyclable plastic materials and pro-

ground-level hardscaping, such as a patio, or choosing man-

duce a durable, long-lasting structure. One high-end product,

made materials in a variety of colors.

Timber Tek PVC, offers the advantage of a cooler surface tem-

Every Deck Innovators project starts with a site visit and consultation with the customers at their home. “I like to see the site

perature, making the deck more comfortable in summer when people go outdoors in bare feet.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Midlothian

27

RENOVATE & REFINE (CONTINUED)

We l i ke the deck ver y much.

It a f fords us the a bi l it y to have fa m i ly come over a nd to socia l d ista nce.”

– Br uce Ensley

Lance Sniatkowski (right) and fellow deck builder Joseph Meacham

Composite decking, made from a variety of materials that resist fading, staining, scratching and mold, will

28

dealer to rebuild the 8-year-old original deck on his Charter Colony home.

hold up longer than a wood deck, and with minimal care.

“There were design challenges,” Bruce said, refer-

Higher-end composite products will look like wood; low-

ring to his sloping back yard. “He was able to over-

er-end products won’t, but come in many attractive colors

come that, and we liked his design. That was the dif-

and are priced similar to wood.

ferentiator for us.” Lance’s design worked within the

Bruce Ensley met Lance while researching low-main-

original deck footprint and accommodated the slope

tenance composite materials and seeking an authorized

by constructing two sets of stairs and a catwalk, to

Midlothian Lifestyle | February 2021

A deck in Salisbury features lighted steps

connect the new deck to the patio below. The Ensley

in construction in Arizona and then in New Jersey, where

deck was completed last summer.

“I taught myself remodeling by watching This Old House.”

“We like the deck very much,” Bruce said. “It affords us

In addition to decks, Lance’s company offers total

the ability to have family come over and to social distance.”

kitchen and bath remodels, working with cabinet and

While Deck Innovators has operated in Midlothian for

countertop contract partners. But decks make up the bulk

just the last several years, Lance has been in construc-

of the business, fueled lately by strong demand as clients

tion and remodeling since the 1980s. His first job was as

seek to expand outdoor living and entertaining spaces due

a laborer for a construction company that employed his

to COVID. “It’s a good selling point,” Lance said. “We like

father, who also worked as a shop teacher. He continued

doing decks and being outside.”

CityLifestyle.com/Midlothian

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DIY

H A N D M A D E H O M E

A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE TO ALL THINGS DIY WITH EXPERT AUDREY KUETHER

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY AUDREY KUETHER

Before I made these cute gold leaf dishes, my jewelry was a tangled mess. Now I actually enjoy keeping it organized and displayed! Don’t let gold leaf intimidate you – it’s a game changer. Check out the tutorial to learn how to make some of these pretties for yourself or for gift giving.

SCAN ME FOR THE FULL TUTORIAL!

G O L D E N G L A M J E W E L R Y D I S H E S

30

Midlothian Lifestyle | February 2021

P R E T T Y P O M P O M W A L L H A N G I N G S

It doesn’t get more fun than yarn pom poms – ok maybe I need to get a life, but nonetheless ....

In this tutorial , I show you just how easy it is to make your own pom poms and pull them together to make the cutest wall hangings.

SCAN ME FOR THE FULL TUTORIAL!

I turned these toys into some fun photo holders, but they are also super fun used as table place settings at a kid’s birthday party. They double as a party favor!

T T P D

E R R I F I C O Y A N I M A L H O T O I S P L A Y S

SCAN ME FOR THE FULL TUTORIAL!

CityLifestyle.com/Midlothian

31

FEBRUARY

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

ALL MONTH

https://branchmuseum.org/the-

VOTING IN VIRGINIA

restoration-the-branch-house-pipes/

restoration-dialogue-solving-theunknowns-of-preservation-and-

Library of Virginia

Unfinished Business explores the continuing struggle to provide access to the vote. https://edu.lva.virginia.

4

VIP FOOD & WINE EXPERIENCE: SEAFOOD EXTRAVAGANZA COCKTAIL RECEPTION Publix Aprons Cooking School at Nuckols Place

COUPLES COOKING DEMONSTRATION

Start the evening with a VIP food and

Publix Aprons Cooking School at

2 white and 2 red wines, each paired

of the 19th Amendment that guaran-

Nuckols Place

with a chef-inspired creation. Wine

teed women’s right to vote, this exhibit

This year, make your Valentine’s dinner

reception starts at 6 p.m. If these

reveals how women created two state-

one to remember. This is a demonstra-

wines inspire your taste buds, please

wide organizations to work for wom-

tion-style cooking class. Sit back, relax,

also sign up for Seafood Extravaganza

en’s suffrage. https://edu.lva.virginia.

and let our chefs do the cooking. Enjoy

(2-course) dinner that follows at 7 p.m.

gov/wedemand/

all of our delicious menu items and ask

A separate registration is required.

Calendar compiled by M. Katherine Fisher

questions as we walk you through each

https://aprons-cooking-school-

recipe. $100 per couple. Other dates

richmond-virginia.eventbritestudio.

1

also available. See the menu and sign

com/131098261429

BOOKTHINK DISCUSSION GROUP

estudio.com/131091599503

6-28

4

VIRGINIA ARCADIA: THE NATURAL BRIDGE IN AMERICAN ART

CHESTERFIELD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE VIRTUAL GALA

Celebrated for centuries, the Natural

Virtual Event

breathtaking centerpiece—a towering,

meet.google.com/kas-xkfe-sxi and

Awards, chamber updates, silent auc-

primeval witness to human history

https://chesterfield.evanced.info/

tion, raffle tickets and lots of fun will

and timeless muse. The free exhibition

signup/Calendar

be included. $35 for members. $45

examines its image in paintings, prints,

for non-members. To register and

decorative

3

for more information: https://www.

more. Featured artists include Frederic

chesterfieldchamber.com/events/

Church, David Johnson, Edward Hicks,

SOLVING THE UNKNOWNS OF PRESERVATION AND RESTORATION – THE BRANCH HOUSE PIPES

details/chesterfield-chamber-annu-

and many others. Daily 10 a.m.–5

al-gala-2-4-21-21221

p.m. and until 9 p.m. Wednesdays-

gov/unfinished-business/ We Demand: Women’s Suffrage in Virginia: Celebrating the centennial

up

here.

The Glass Menagerie by Tennessee Williams: Come share your passion for reading with fellow book-lovers at our monthly online discussion group. New attendees are always welcome. No registration needed, just open this link:

wine cocktail reception. Come sample

https://aprons-cooking-

school-richmond-virginia.eventbrit-

LaPrade Library Virtual Program

Virginia Museum of Fine Art

Bridge is the Shenandoah Valley’s

arts,

photography

and

Fridays. https://www.vmfa.museum/

4

exhibitions/exhibitions/virginia-ar-

ACOUSTIC CONCERT SERIES: AMY HENDERSON

12

plaster. Tracing the pipes has led to

Enjoy this eclectic mix of folk and

understanding how the house was

traditional music from Amy Henderson.

built behind the surfaces you see. You

Available at https://www.youtube.com/

will see various strategies in investi-

user/GetTransformedCCPL for 30 days

THE ICONOGRAPHY OF A LIFE IN ARMS: THE ETRUSCAN SOLDIER AT WAR, AT HOME, AND AT THE TOMB

The Branch Museum of Architecture & Design Live Webinar

The plumbing of the original piping is still in use after 100 years but it is causing damage to the decorative

32

6

Virtual Event

cadia-natural-bridge-american-art/

Virtual Event

gating behind the walls and spaces

from premiere date. https://chester

Each year the Department of Classical

not normally seen by the public.

field.evanced.info/signup/Calendar

Studies brings noteworthy speakers

Midlothian Lifestyle | February 2021

and scholars to Richmond to present

and attend educational seminars.

lectures or seminars. These events are

Friday 11 a.m.-7 p.m.; Saturday 9 a.m.-7

free and open to the public. Students

p.m.; Sunday 10 a.m.-4 p.m. https://

always benefit from gaining new per-

www.richmondrvexpo.com/

spectives and from interacting with these scholars. Presented by: Hilary Becker Binghamton University. ht tps://classics .richmond .edu/ major-minor/speaker-series.html

12-14

13 QUEEN NUR: SWEET POTATO PIE AND SUCH Virtual Program

Registration

begins

1/30/2021

at

10 a.m. Enjoy a buffet of flavorful

WINE & DINE YOUR VALENTINE

tales from the African and African-

Publix Aprons Cooking School at

American oral tradition. This program

12-14

Nuckols Place

is designed for participation and jubi-

Dinner and a show and celebrate

lant celebration. For kids and families.

2021 RICHMOND CAMPING RV EXPO

your love, right here at the cooking

Chesterfield County and Virginia State

school! This is a demonstration-style

University celebrate Black History

Richmond Raceway Complex

cooking class. Sit back, relax, and let

Month with programs that illustrate

See a variety of manufacturers show-

our chefs do the cooking. Enjoy all

the

casing newest models and makes

of our delicious menu items and ask

https://chesterfield.evanced.info/

of recreational vehicles. There will

questions as we walk you through

signup/Calendar

be motorhomes, travel trailers, fifth

each recipe. 6:30 p.m. Feb. 12, 13 and

wheels, pop-up campers, van camp-

14. $100 per couple. See the menu

ers, and more. Also all kinds of industry

and sign up here. https://aprons-

vendors, tow vehicles, campgrounds,

cooking-school-richmond-virginia.

and more. Enjoy daily entertainment

eventbritestudio.com/131103067805

African-American

experience.

CONTINUED >

HAND POURED CANDLES INSPIRED FROM THE STATE OF VIRGINIA AND BEYOND. ASK ABOUT OUR WHOLESALE CUSTOM CANDLE SERVICE FOR YOUR BUSINESS OR NEXT EVENT!

HILLANDRIVERCOLLECTION.COM

VB @HILLANDRIVERCOLLECTION CityLifestyle.com/Midlothian

33

FEBRUARY

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

14

18

Use

THE SUPPER CLUB RVA VALENTINE'S DAY DINNER

ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCY AND DESIGN INSPIRATION

experimenting with colored pencil

The Branch Museum of Architecture &

per child/adult pair (VMFA members

Need Romance during Quarantine?

Design Live Webinar

$25). Recommended for children

Join Chef Falsetto for an evening of

The Aga Khan Award for Architecture

ages 5–12, accompanied by one

love, romance and fine dining! Enjoy

is presented every three years to

adult. 5-7 p.m. https://www.vmfa.

a three-course meal that will satisfy

projects that set new standards of

museum/calendar/

your taste buds. 7-10 p.m. Check out

excellence in architecture, planning

the menu and join The Supper Club

practices, historic preservation, and

RVA on Facebook for updates on

landscape architecture. It seeks to

upcoming events. Social distancing

identify and encourage building con-

will be enforced! Mask required. $50

cepts that successfully address the

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/

needs and aspirations of societies

the-supper-club-rva-valentines-

in which Muslims have a significant

Runners run the Willis River Trail, a

day-dinner-tickets-131780267327

presence. This webinar will present

trail that runs through Bear Creek

several

Women's Business Center RVA

17

AN EVENING WITH JASON REYNOLDS AND DR. IBRAM X. KENDI Virtual Program

Join Reynolds and Dr. Kendi as they

discuss

their

collaboration

on “Stamped: Racism, Antiracism and You,” a young adult adapta-

cupcakes

and

candies

for

inspiration to create colorful still lifes. Learn about compositing while drawings, as well as paintings. $30

21 WILLIS RIVER 50K

Bear Creek State Park

projects.

Lake State Park and Cumberland

https://branchmuseum.org/eco

State Forest. Runners have the

logical-resiliency-and-design-

option of completing a roughly

inspiration-akaa/

35k run or a 50k run. 8 a.m. start.

award-winning

The cost is free! This is a Sunday

18 WILTON UNCOVERED: AN EXHIBITION 20 YEARS IN THE MAKING Wilton House Museum Virtual Event

race! For more information and to register visit: https://ultrasign up.com/register.aspx?did=79877

27

tion of Dr. Kendi’s “Stamped from

In 1998, William & Mary archaeolo-

the

Definitive

gists uncovered the material record

History of Racist Ideas in America.”

of the lives of nearly a century of

Registration begins Jan. 20. This

enslaved families. It recovered not

moderated virtual event will be

only the most important available

Pre-order

hosted on Zoom. You must be

tool for understanding daily life at

up in your formal attire and con-

registered to receive the event link.

Wilton, but also the largest col-

nect with thousands of African

https://chesterfield.evanced.info/

lection of objects associated with

American

signup/Calendar

Wilton’s original location. Includes

country on Zoom. Sponsored by

poignant artistic renderings of the

the Virginia Black History Month

18

community that used the artifacts.

Association. 6-9 p.m. https://www.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/

eventbrite.com/e/the-2021-vir-

THE JAZZ OF PLUNKY AND ONENESS

wilton-uncovered-an-exhibi

ginia-black-history-month-virtu-

tion-20-years-in-the-maing-tick

al-gala-tickets-117352024063

Beginning:

The

Virtual Program

e t s -1 2 1 74 0 0 7 8 8 5 3 ?a f f = e b d s s

Join Mr. J. Plunky Branch for a short

bonlinesearch

THE 2021 VIRGINIA BLACK HISTORY MONTH (VIRTUAL) GALA Virtual Event

dinner,

families

get

dressed

across

the

talk on the Black experience and Jazz. Stay for a performance with him and his band. Registration begins Feb. 4. This program will be available for 30 days after its premiere date. https://chesterfield. evanced.info/signup/Calendar 34

Midlothian Lifestyle | February 2021

19 SWEETS IN THE STUDIO

Would you like to get in touch with us? We would love to hear from you!

Contact us at CityLifestyle.com/

Virginia Museum of Fine Art

Midlothian using the Get In Touch

Nothing's sweeter than this class!

link and let us know what you think.

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