Midlothian, VA May 2023

UP IS THE ONLY DIRECTION WE WANT TO TAKE YOU.

Photo by Sidekix Media on unsplash.com

MIDLOTHIAN LUXURY HOME REPORT

Welcome to May and the Ladies’ Issue!

What a wonderful season of the year May brings to us! Flowers, freshly-grown grass, and baby leaves on our trees. Along with the sound of lawnmowers humming in our neighborhoods, we feel the warmer temperatures that haven't yet brought the intense humidity of the South. We can indulge all our senses in nature as we walk, run, hike, ride our bikes, and get away with family and friends. For me, May is all about new beginnings. I graduated from college in May, took a cross-country tour, and lived on the West Coast for a summer starting in May, and the list goes on. I'll admit that the weather is my favorite part of May, and the fact that pools are opening and the summer vibe is on its way makes this water baby happy! What's your favorite May memory? Please share it with us!

Speaking of family, the ladies in our lives deserve so much love and attention as Mother's Day approaches and every day of the year. We dedicate this issue to the ladies and all that they are and do for themselves, their families, and their chosen communities.

We've got several amazing new partners, and we hope you'll benefit from their services. Ladies, prepare to experience wellness in many forms, including cryotherapy, IV/Drip Therapy, lash and spa beauty tips and experiences, and med spa treatment options that will have you relaxed and rejuvenated in no time. Get together with your besties and treat yourself!

Please enjoy this beautiful season, and know we are so excited to share these fantastic partnerships for you to experience. We hope you always have the mindset that the best is yet to come, so seize each day and live in the present- there's no better way!

Happy Mother's Day!

May 2023

PUBLISHER

Aaron Swart | aaron.swart@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Joanna Tannenbaum

joanna.tannenbaum@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGERS

Steven Casupanan

steven.casupanan@citylifestyle.com

Ashley Sill | ashley.sill@citylifestyle.com

Matthew Church | matthew.church@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Jennifer Redmond jennifer.redmond@citylifestyle.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATORS

Naylor Taliaferro | lcrmediallc@gmail.com

Matt Polson | matt@thevideodepartmentrva.com

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Nia Negrette Photography

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe

LAYOUT DESIGNER Eva Tucker

Proverbs 3:5-6

Be NOW HIRING NEW DOCTORS

patient needs.

PHOTO BY MATT NELSON VIA UNSPLASH.COM

heart is at the of it all.

family-friendly EVENTS COMING IN may!

heat and how the shape of the glass catches the light is a constant fascination for me. The main focus of my acrylic art is the use of color, but application and flow are also important. The possibilities are endless.

CURVES LINES COLOR

DAVE HENDERSON

gallery EXHIBIT: now through june 16

Artist Statement: I love the challenge of creating. For me, there is no greater satisfaction then planning an art project in my mind and then actually creating it. Using a variety of techniques and mediums adds to the challenge and to the sense of satisfaction. I work predominantly in wood, glass, and acrylic paint. Working with wood is an old passion dating back to my father’s workshop. I enjoy revealing the natural color of woods and highlighting the wood grain. Many of my wood pieces are made of exotic woods because the colors are so unusual. Color plays an important part in my glass and acrylic paint art, too. How the color of glass changes with

The Wizard of Oz

Presented by Broken Leg Theater

By L. Frank Baum With Music and Lyrics by Harold Arlen and E. Y. Harburg

May 4-7, 2023

We’re off to see the wizard! This beloved tale, in which a Kansas farm girl travels over the rainbow to discover the magical power of home, has entertained audiences for generations.

THE WIZARD OF OZ is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Tams-Witmark LLC. www.concordtheatricals.com

Richmond Symphony: Family Concert, Mother Goose Suite

Sunday, May 14, 2023 | 3:00 p.m.

Chia-Hsuan LIn, Conductor

In honor of Mother’s Day, we will showcase our mothers, who are strong, tender, smart and who care deeply for us. Dvoark’s “Songs My Mother Taught Me” and the center piece, Ravel’s Mother Goose Suite will be featured. This is a concert for all the family and we hope you enjoy!

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

Want to be seen in the magazine?

Tag your Instagram photos with @midlothianlifestyle

1: A pup waits in line for a free vaccine at Richmond Animal Care and Control. 2: LAUNCH for Life mentors and mentees have a group discussion during their midterm event. 3: LAUNCH for Life mentors and mentees enjoy food provided by Lehja Restaurant in Short Pump. 4: LAUNCH for Life volunteers serve food, provided by Lehja Restaurant, to mentors and mentees. 5: The Richmond Home and Garden Show attendees observe various home displays. 6: At the Richmond Home and Garden Show, attendees browse through one of the garden sections. 7: Customers enjoy dinner in a cozy atmosphere at 21 Spoons in Midlothian.

RICHMOND HOME AND GARDEN SHOW

RICHMOND HOME AND GARDEN SHOW

DOSHIA DESIGNS

RICHMOND ANIMAL CARE AND CONTROL

LAUNCH FOR LIFE

LAUNCH FOR LIFE

LAUNCH FOR LIFE

Photo by Francesca Tosolini on unsplash.com

OrthoVirginia to Open a New Medical Office Building in Midlothian

OrthoVirginia is collaborating with development firms Hourigan and Lingerfelt to develop a $50 million, 77,000-square-foot medical office building east of the Bon Secours Westchester Medical Park. OrthoVirginia will occupy the entire two-story facility and provide an array of orthopedic services, from diagnostic imaging and surgery to physical and hand therapies. Engineering firm Timmons Group is responsible for site planning for the project, which intends to open in the fall of 2024.

Greer Jones Teams Up with Shaheen, Ruth, Martin, and Fonville

Associate Broker Greer Jones of Greer Jones Properties recently joined Shaheen, Ruth, Martin, and Fonville Real Estate. Greer brings nearly 20 years of experience working with buyers and sellers to Shaheen, Ruth, Martin, and Fonville Real Estate. srmfre.com

local experiences

The best places and things to do in our area.

BY JOANNA TANNENBAUM

Grab your gal pals and plan a relaxing or upscale day, weekend, or GNO (Girls' Night Out)! with any one of these local experiences fit for the females in this list curated by Joanna Tannenbaum

Our Picks for The Gal Pals

THE PARK: Enjoy a night of laughs, drinks, and dinner with the ladies at a comedy show at The Park. 1407 Cummings Drive, Richmond, VA

THE S.E.E. BOUTIQUE: Shop for apparel and accessories for your next Girls' Night Out at The S.E.E. Boutique. 1244 Sycamore Square Drive, Midlothian, VA

BURN BOOT CAMP: Take a fitness class with your best friend and burn calories at Burn Boot Camp in Woodlake. 7000 Woodlake Commons Loop, Midlothian, VA

THE BOATHOUSE: Experience the warm weather with the girls at a restaurant with outdoor seating like The Boathouse. 4602 Millridge Parkway, Midlothian, VA

GREAT HARVEST BAKERY CAFÉ: Meet your friends for coffee and breakfast at a local café like Great Harvest Bakery Café. 13541 Midlothian Turnpike, Midlothian, VA

Scan for more photos and the full list.

Want to recommend a local experience?

Scan the QR code and message us on Instagram.

(Alan) went well above and beyond–shattering our real estate service expectations. Had we not engaged Alan and Larry King to sell our home, I never would have known how pleasant, knowledgeable, accessible, and responsible a real estate team could be. In our 15+ real estate transaction experience, this tandem’s ability to effectively deliver blows the doors off all the other big name real estate agencies we have used. Alan and Larry’s size and creativity enables them to excel and add value where others fail. We are fortunate to count ourselves among the hundred(s) of unbiased satisfied client reviewers.

photo by Angela Balashev on unsplash.com

Lovely Lashes and More

Lash Out Beauty Bar Presents Skin and Beauty Care in a Hospitable and Fun Atmosphere

ARTICLE BY JOANNA TANNENBAUM | PHOTOGRAPHY BY REMY BIASE

Lash Out Beauty Bar is an upscale eyelash extension salon and med spa located in the Huguenot Shopping Center in Midlothian. In addition to offering lash and brow tinting, microblading, permanent makeup, laser hair removal, Botox, and dermal fillers, the beauty bar provides first-rate eyelash training and certification for talented lash artists-to-be. In March,  Midlothian Lifestyle learned more about Lash Out from owner Rana Hamadani and her mission to make customers feel beautiful from the inside out.

JOANNA: WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO WORK IN THE BEAUTY BUSINESS?

RANA: I had always gravitated towards opportunities that helped women feel their best. Still, it wasn’t until I finally walked away from the corporate setting to reevaluate what I wanted that I realized a little fire lit up

anytime I was around the beauty industry. I love how beauty services nurture from the inside out and offer a space for people to look good and feel supported, cared for, and connected with others.

JOANNA: WHAT SERVICES DO YOU OFFER?

RANA: We are a full-scale Med Spa and Beauty Bar with two locations in the Richmond area: Hanover and Midlothian! Our services include laser hair removal, luxurious facials, VI Peels, Morpheus8, IPL photo facials, body waxing, botox and filler, weight loss/vitamin shots, and our well-known lash extensions and brow services.

JOANNA: WHAT IS YOUR MOST POPULAR SERVICE?

RANA: Lash Extensions are our most popular. We focus on quality from products

to technique and ensure your lashes are never damaged or stressed. Lashes have such a powerful way of enhancing our natural beauty. It’s highly addicting! Our second most popular service is the Facial of the Month, which changes each month, so it’s always a unique experience that leaves your skin hydrated and glowing.

JOANNA: WHAT MAKES LASH OUT DIFFERENT THAN SIMILAR BUSINESSES?

RANA: When we ask our clients why they choose us over time, they respond to our friendly staff, the quality, and the wide range of our services. Our core values are Quality, Kindness, Affordability, Growth, and Inclusion. We focus our energy on giving our clients the best services and experience, and I genuinely believe that’s why we’ve grown the way we have.

JOANNA: WHO IS YOUR STAFF, AND WHAT DO THEY DO AT LASH OUT BEAUTY BAR?

RANA: At the Midlothian location, we have Liz Sheffield (Manager), Hannah Drummond (Front Desk Lead), Devan Brown (Master Esthetician), Taylor Earley (Master Esthetician), Marissa Caskey (Aesthetic Nurse), Cecilia Cook (Lash Artist), Karen Miller (Sr. Lash Artist) Alyssa Willis (Lash Artist) Savannah Bemis (Lash Artist) and Dana Reid (Permanent Makeup Artist).

JOANNA: WHAT LOCAL CHARITIES DO YOU SUPPORT?

RANA: We participate in a local food bank for Thanksgiving and Toys for Tots Christmas during the holidays. We are looking to partner with a women’s shelter this year.

JOANNA: DO YOU HAVE ANY UPCOMING SPECIALS OR DEALS?

RANA: Our Self-Care Package is our favorite deal. It combines Hybrid Lash Extensions, a Spa Facial, and a Brow Shape and Tint for $295. It makes a fantastic Mother’s Day Gift. For our Morpheus8 and other Med Spa treatments, we offer Cherry Financing so our clients can take advantage of exceptional services and make monthly payments that fit their budget. Midlothian Lifestyle readers also get 15% off their first treatment.

JOANNA: WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO STAY INFORMED ABOUT LASH OUT?

RANA: We host fun events for clients and new faces to explore our services, so follow us on social media or visit our website to keep up with us and our events.

To learn more about Lash Out Beauty Bar in Midlothian, visit: lashoutrva.com

Keep up with Lash Out on Instagram: @lashout_rva_beautybar

REJUVENATE WITH INNOVITAMIN SOLUTIONS

While working full-time as a nurse and then as a nurse practitioner on the inpatient side, April Morris witnessed the amazing effects an IV could have on a patient and how quickly they could feel those effects. In the outpatient setting as a nurse practitioner, the one complaint April repeatedly heard from her patients was how tired they were. “I wanted to bring IV therapy outside of the hospital setting and help people live at their optimum,” April explains. “But I still wanted to set my company apart from the other IV treatment services that were popping up at the time, so I decided to make it mobile. And that’s how I created InnoVitamin Solutions!”

InnoVitamin Solutions is for anyone, especially those with busy lifestyles who still want to prioritize self-care and health despite demanding schedules. "We are one of the only infusion therapy providers to offer mobile service," April says. "We come directly to your home or office, so you don't have to carve time out of your day to go to an appointment." They offer various mobile intravenous treatments comprised of ten unique blends such as Brain Boost, Get Up & Go, Immunity, Inner Beauty, Quench, Reboot, Recovery & Performance, Myer’s Cocktail, Glutathione, and Tri-Immune. Extra nutrients, like Vitamin B12 or biotin, can be added to any one of the blends.

Their impressive team of skilled registered nurses, with extensive knowledge of IV treatments, comes straight to the client's home or office to administer vitamins and hydration directly into the bloodstream for immediate results and relief. Their traveling registered nurses include Betsy Ashauer, Diana Cook, Diane Barnard, Valerie Rivera, Angela Greenidge, Sun Yi, and Mari Fahrbach. These ladies travel in and around Richmond, from Powhatan to Colonial Heights. With Betsy as the lead RN, she supervises the team, leads communication, and retrieves client feedback after every appointment to ensure an incredible experience.

ARTICLE BY JOANNA TANNENBAUM

INNOVITAMIN SOLUTIONS MEMBERSHIP OPTIONS

All IVS memberships come with a handful of perks, like priority booking, same-day appointments, complimentary add-ons, and a free initial consultation with our lead nurse.

In celebration of  Midlothian Lifestyle's Ladies' Issue, April shared what women benefit most from their services and the most popular IV treatment. Inner Beauty is their top blend for women. This combination mainly helps the skin, hair growth, and nail health. One of the blend's primary ingredients is biotin. "While oral biotin

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CLARE MIDOCK PHOTOGRAPHY

APRIL MORRIS AND HER TEAM BRING MOBILE IV THERAPY SERVICES TO BUSY LOCALS

THE BASIC MEMBERSHIP includes one basic IV treatment per month.

THE BASIC PLUS MEMBERSHIP includes two basic IV treatments per month.

“I CAN’T SAY ENOUGH WONDERFUL THINGS ABOUT INNOVITAMIN SOLUTIONS! I’M A BUSY NONPROFIT FOUNDER AND OFTEN FEEL RUN DOWN. I NOTICED A DIFFERENCE IMMEDIATELY! APRIL MORRIS AND HER TEAM ARE SO PROFESSIONAL; THEY ARE WELL-TRAINED AND MAKE SURE YOU’RE COMFORTABLE. THE BEST PART? THEY COME TO YOU!” - JILL C

supplements are great—and we never discourage our patients from taking them—results come much quicker with an IV biotin treatment," April says. The Inner Beauty IV is perfect for brides-to-be, anyone with a special event coming up, or the woman who wants a radiant glow or boost in hair or nail growth. As a Mother's Day special, April is offering 30% off the Biotin blend throughout May, the perfect gift for all the extraordinary ladies in your life!

To take advantage of InnoVitamin Solutions' Mother's Day special, schedule your treatment, and use the coupon code MOTHER by visiting: innovitaminsolutions.com

While InnoVitamin Solutions is proud to bring IV therapy directly to their clients at home, they also partner with select spas and salons across Richmond to bring their unique services to them. Customers can book an infusion while they pamper themselves at Club West Med Spa, Glowing + Grace, Rejuvenation Skin Lab, and Waterfalls Med Spa in Bon Air.

THE PREMIUM MEMBERSHIP includes one premium IV treatment per month.

THE PREMIUM PLUS MEMBERSHIP includes two premium IV treatments per month.

Ashley Sill preparing to enter the cryotherapy chamber.

RESTORING YOUR HEALTH AND BEAUTY

ARTICLE BY JOANNA TANNENBAUM PHOTOGRAPHY BY NIA NEGRETTE PHOTOGRAPHY

In March,  Midlothian Lifestyle partners Navona Hart of Century 21 at Home; Greer Jones of Greer Jones Properties; Melissa Oefelein of Keller Williams West; Shirley Dillaman of Mint Spa RVA; Ashley Sill of Gather; and Ashley Jefferson of Very Ashley attended an exclusive Girls' Night Out event at Restore Hyper Wellness in Midlothian. With trials of cryotherapy, red light therapy, and compression therapy, Restore got the opportunity to introduce its services to women in Midlothian. "Our services and the results we see are backed by science, and the convenience to get everything done at one place cannot be beaten," says co-owner Greg DeStephanis. "Our mission is to make our modalities accessible and affordable to as many people as possible so we can restore them and enable them to do more of what they love."

Girls' Night Out began with the usuals (snacks, wine, and laughter) as the ladies prepared for a cryotherapy trial. Cryotherapy treatments may help optimize sleep, defy signs of aging, relieve pain, and boost overall energy by exposing the body, or a particular area of the body, to sub-zero temperatures. The ladies experienced Whole Body Cryotherapy in Restore's

very own high-tech chamber. "Many women do not like the cold despite the many health benefits, Greg explains. "I would encourage every woman to give cryotherapy a try. Those who have tend to feel that extra energy and come back for more." Greg is proud to note that Restore houses Richmond's only four-person cryotherapy chamber, 4COOL, allowing up to four friends to socialize while receiving treatment.

Red light therapy was the next service the ladies sampled. As learned in biology classes of the past, light provides practical support for the human body. Red light therapy uses red and infrared wavelengths of light that boost energy levels, relieve minor pain and swelling, and balance your mood in as little as ten minutes daily. The last treatment the women tried was compression therapy. This relaxing treatm ent applies controlled, dynamic pressure with pulse massaging to extremities like the arms, legs, and hips. With 30–60-minute sessions, compression therapy intends to treat lymphedema conditions like venous insufficiency and deep vein thrombosis.

Overall, Girls’ Night Out was a success as each woman had a unique

Left to Right: Navona Hart, Melissa Oefelein, Ashley Sill, and Ashley Jefferson

Ashley Sill, Navona Hart, and Ashley Jefferson enjoying compression therapy.

experience of their own. "Restore was created for the health-conscious consumer offering services I didn't even know I needed," Navona says. "The compression therapy was super relaxing, which was shocking. They have so many services I can't wait to get back to try!"

Ashley Sill mentioned she enjoyed using the red light therapy. "It was warm and felt comforting after a stressful day, and it helped with my dry eyes, mood, and skin," Ashley says. "It will take a few visits to see the benefits working, but it's definitely worth it!"

The staff at Restore is just as excellent as the services. Alisa Varela, the General Manager, performs the studio's day-to-day operations, handles all marketing, and is the main business-to-business point of contact. Restore's registered nurses, Flo King and Mallory Gray, administer all medical services like IV drips and hyperbaric oxygen. A stellar team of representatives, Morgan Farzaneh, Dawn Priolo, Kolade Olanrewaju, Tori DeStephanis, and Hope Jones, greet members, keep up with scheduling, and guide members to the modalities. Restore's licensed esthetician Madalys Quintanilla performs all the esthetic services like cryoskin and hydrafacials. "Our team is full of rock stars, and their mission is to make every customer feel like they are the most important person in the world," Greg says.

Restore Hyper Wellness follows a membership-based model. All memberships are a 3-month commitment to start and then month to month. The Discover membership includes four core services or one monthly base IV drip for $99. The most flexible membership, the Level Up option, includes eight core services or two base IV drips, or four core services and one base IV drip monthly for $169. The last option is the Core membership which covers thirty-one core services monthly for $299. From medical to beauty needs, Restore has a membership suited for anyone. Eventually, Greg would like to allocate a percentage of membership fees to the ALS Association, an organization close to his heart.

CONTINUED >

Although a large demographic of members is mostly in their late 30s to 50s, attempting to fight the signs of aging and increase their health, anyone over twelve years old is welcome to try the amenities at Restore Hyper Wellness. The Midlothian studio often runs monthly deals that vary based on the classification of services. They also host special events where people can learn more about Restore's treatments. In addition to the recent Girls' Night Out, Restore held a medical night where guests were educated on NAD+ IV drips and biomarker assessments. Greg says they plan to have an upcoming Member Appreciation event to celebrate their 6-month anniversary!

Ashley Sill trying Restore's red light therapy.

COMPLETE SERVICES AVAILABLE AT RESTORE HYPER WELLNESS

CORE

Cryotherapy

Red Light Therapy

Infrared Sauna

Compression

MEDICAL

IV Drip Therapy

Intramuscular (IM) Shots

Mild Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

NAD+ IV Drip Therapy

NAD+ IM Shot Therapy

Biomarker Assessments

ESTHETIC

Cryoskin Facials, Slimming, and Toning Hydrafacial Circadia Oxygen Facial

To book an appointment at Restore Hyper Wellness in Midlothian, go to: restore.com

“We feel fortunate to be in such a tightknit community like Midlothian. We want to continue to make our presence known, as many still need to learn about Restore Hyper Wellness and what we do.”

– Greg DeStephanis

Photo by Martin Magnemyr on unsplash.com

Empowering Women the Healthy Way

Becky Pickels Supports Women On Their Quests for a Healthier Lifestyle Through Her EmpowHER Project

ARTICLE BY JOANNA TANNENBAUM | PHOTOGRAPHY BY NIA NEGRETTE PHOTOGRAPHY

Becky Pickels is on a mission to help others live the healthy and enjoyable lives they deserve. From competitive swimming and cross-country to being a Division-I athlete in college, health and fitness have always played a central role in Becky’s life. After she graduated from The Ohio State University with a Master’s Degree in Occupational Therapy, Becky began training herself for marathons to help overcome some personal challenges she was experiencing. “I knew I could get through anything if I could mentally and physically train and complete a marathon, Becky explains. “It served as my therapy!”

After working as an Acute Care Occupational Therapist for over sixteen years, Becky was motivated by her family’s struggles with autoimmune diseases to return to school to become an Elite Certified Personal Trainer, Nutritionist, and Health Coach. After much success healing her husband, their youngest daughter, and herself, she knew she needed to share their journey with others. Becky recently spoke with  Midlothian Lifestyle  about her EmpowHER Project, hoping to inspire not only local women, but women around the world.

JOANNA: WHAT IS THE EMPOWHER PROJECT?

BECKY: I designed the EmpowHER Project specifically for women in perimenopause, menopause, and post-menopause. These women have specific needs to rebalance their hormones and increase their metabolism to achieve and sustain the desired results. Instead of depriving their bodies of nutrition and spending hours in the gym, I teach women how to feed and fuel their bodies to work for them, not against them, as well as teach them how to exercise more efficiently in a less amount of time.

JOANNA: WHY IS THE PROJECT IMPORTANT TO YOU?

BECKY: The most important aspect of the EmpowHER project is that it genuinely helps participants develop the skills to be mentally tough in all aspects of life. It helps women learn how to be confident again in who they are.  They love who they see in the mirror again and are proud of themselves.

JOANNA: HOW DO YOUR COACHING SESSIONS WORK?

BECKY: All my coaching sessions are oneon-one over the phone or via zoom for 30 minutes. We start by celebrating achievements for the week, then dig into any challenges or struggles. We discuss nutrition, exercise, and mindset.

JOANNA: DO YOU CREATE MEAL PLANS?

BECKY: Yes! But only some people want or need it. Some do well with guidelines and information, while others require more specific, detailed plans. I do what is best for each client to help them reach their goals!

JOANNA: HOW IS A PERSONAL TRAINER DIFFERENT THAN A HEALTH COACH?

BECKY: A personal trainer focuses on your physical fitness and provides you with a workout or exercise plan; however, improving your overall health and wellness is much more than just working out and exercising. A Health Coach will address nutrition, fitness, and mindset. A health coach will be able to manage any of the challenges that come up while you are on your journey. And no two people's journeys are the same. It's important to trust the process and embrace the journey.

CONTINUED >

JOANNA: HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE MOST PEOPLE TO SEE A CHANGE IN WEIGHT, STRESS LEVELS, AND MINDSET?

BECKY: If participants follow the instructions and make just one simple change, they will notice positive results within the first week! Weight is sometimes the last thing to change, though. People will see decreased stress levels, improved sleep, better digestion, and even lose inches off their bodies before the scale changes.

JOANNA: DO YOU FOCUS ON ANY SPECIALTY AREAS OF HEALTH AND FITNESS?

BECKY: Yes! Nutrition and Functional Fitness are my favorites. I combine these to help people with weight management and obtain sustainable weight loss by rebalancing their hormones and increasing their metabolism.  It’s important to note that it’s NOT a diet; it’s a lifestyle!

JOANNA: WHO ARE YOU WHEN YOU AREN'T BECKY PICKELS, THE PERSONAL HEALTH COACH?

BECKY: I am the wife of fourteen years to my wonderful and supportive husband, Logan. I am a momma to our two beautiful, intelligent, and funny girls, Kenzie and Lexie, and our doggie, Auggie. Nothing will keep me from playing every role I can to my husband and girls. I cherish every moment, from school drop-offs to swim lessons and homework. I want to be there for every moment, good or bad.

To learn more about health coaching from Becky Pickels, go to: empowherproject.com

Photo by Ryan Reinoso on unsplash.com

ARTICLE BY JOANNA TANNENBAUM |

MINT CONDITION

SHIRLEY DILLAMAN’S MIDLOTHIAN SPA TREATS WOMEN TO LUXURIOUS AND INVIGORATING SERVICES

Shirley Dillaman, the owner of Mint Spa RVA, started her journey in the beauty industry by working for a small spa in Richmond. After two years, she ventured out independently and rented rooms to grow her clientele. At the same time, she was asked by American Spirit Institute, a School of Esthetics, to join them as an instructor, teaching students the ins and outs of Esthetics. After accepting the offer and teaching for four years, Shirley became too busy to maintain her position at the school and her growing business. She decided to focus on her business and opened a lavish spa far from the ones typically seen in strip malls and office buildings. Shirley’s spa is a destination spot and an escape to serenity. “I named my spa ‘mint’ because it felt refreshing, uplifting, and a mint of a find,” says Shirley.

Mint Spa is a boutique spa where guests can have all their beauty needs completed in one spot. In addition to esthetic benefits like facials, waxing, and body treatments, Mint Spa provides massages and hair and nail services. “Our clients regularly mention that they love coming to us because it is a one-and-done place to have all their services performed,” Shirley says. “The ladies and gentlemen that work at Mint Spa love what they do, which shows in their performance. I believe our clients feel pampered and cared for when they walk out our door.” Shirley feels it is important for a spa owner to create a place of tranquility.  It should feel like a hideaway from our world and a place that provides comfort, convenience, and enjoyment.

Shirley opened her spa because she recognized the daily stressors of women who tend to put

themselves last. “Women will almost always take care of everyone else in the family and be the last to meet their own needs,” Shirley explains. “One day, my husband saw how stressed I was and insisted I get a facial from a friend who had just started her skincare business. That experience made me realize what I wanted to do with the rest of my life: to care for women in a way that made them feel beautiful and special.”  Everyone, especially women, needs time to disconnect from the outside world, fill that desire to escape, and make time for self-care.

In mentioning self-care, Mint Spa offers a total body exfoliation called the Vichey Shower. This unique treatment is only available through a few select spas in Central Virginia, and Mint Spa is proud to be one of them! A salt scrub is applied and massaged into the entire body to remove dead skin cells. Next, a seven-head shower bar washes away the impurities with warm water. Shirley recommends a massage after the Vichey Shower for the ultimate experience. “A massage reduces stress and increases relaxation along with reducing pain and

muscle soreness. We live in a very highpaced, performative world, and almost everyone is stressed,” Shirley explains. “It is important to take care of your well-being by lowering your blood pressure and improving your immune function; a good massage is a way to get started.”

The facials offered at Mint Spa are just as fantastic and beneficial as the massages. They help renew skin cells by circulating the blood flow under the skin, reducing puffiness and fluid buildup. “When you have good circulation from renewing the skin, then that brings oxygen, proteins, and nutrition to the skin and at the same time rids it from toxins,” Shirley says. The boost in cell regeneration supports collagen production, which helps create youthful-looking skin. In addition to offering massages and facials, Mint Spa has a Nurse Practitioner that performs Restorative Medicine like IV therapy, bio-identical hormones, and hair transplants. Whatever your esthetic desires may be, Mint Spa will certainly have a service for everyone. To see a complete list of services or to schedule an appointment, visit mintsparva.com

“When women take time to care for their needs, they become better mothers, wives, and all-around individuals.”

– Shirley Dillaman

Renovation Redefined.

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

MAY 5TH-6TH

Lewis Ginter Spring PlantFest

LEWIS GINTER BOTANICAL

GARDEN | 9:00 AM

Come to one of garden’s the largest plant sales with more than 40 vendors selling plants from well-known favorites to rare exotics. All proceeds benefit the Garden’s educational mission. This event is rain or shine and located outside in Parking Lot C. Till 3:00 p.m. lewisginter.org

MAY 6TH

Star Wars: The Return of the Jedi – In Concert

ALTRIA THEATER | 2:00 PM

The Richmond Symphony performs John Williams’ magnificent score live as the final episode of the original Star Wars: The Return of the Jedi plays on a giant screen. Tickets start at $44 per person. Doors open 1 hour before showtime. altriatheater.com

MAY 6TH

Richmond Maker’s Market

BASIC CITY BEER CO. | 12:00 PM

Check out 35+ local makers at an indoor art market and craft show every first Saturday of the month. Food trucks, beer, and entertainment are available. Richmond Makers Market is not just a place to shop locally but to connect with and learn from creatives in your community. This event is free but operates on generous donations. eventbrite.com

MAY 7TH

Yoga on the Patio

TRIPLE CROSSING BEER

MIDLOTHIAN | 11:00 AM

Check out Yoga with Heather on Triple Crossing’s beautiful patio.

This event is free to join, and you must bring your own yoga mat. Yoga goes till noon as the taproom opens for post-yoga beverages and food. triplecrossing.com

MAY 9TH

Mother’s Day Bouquets & Bracelets

ERMA JEAN

Join Erma Jean for a special Mother’s Day event. Shop our newest summer releases, create a beautiful flower arrangement, and get linked with permanent jewelry. It’s the perfect outing with your best friend, sister, mom, or daughter. To sign up, visit: shopermajean.com

MAY 10TH

The Chesterfield County Farmers Market

CHESTERFIELD COUNTY

GOVERNMENT CENTER

COMPLEX | 11:00 AM

Come out and support local farmers and artisans! Experience the benefits of shopping at a farmers market, like better taste and nutrition and locally grown products picked at the season’s peak. Vendors grow and sell their products and have a wealth of knowledge to share. Till 2:00 p.m. chesterfield.gov

MAY 11TH-13TH

Royal High Tea Mother’s Day Experience

THE QUEEN’S LIBRARY TEA

ROOM | 10:00 AM

Enjoy a pot of English tea with Mom during a three-course tea tower that includes fresh fruit, English scones, English sandwiches, sparkling drinks, smoked salmon, shrimp cocktail, and chocolate-covered strawberries. The tea room is open by reservation only on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday for either 10:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., or 2:00 p.m. for the High Tea Experience. $65 per ticket. eventbrite.com

EVENTS CONTINUED

Over 66% of Realtors are Women.

MAY 11TH

Dine for Muscular Dystrophy

LATITUDE SEAFOOD CO. AT WESTCHESTER COMMONS | 11:00 AM

The Colorado Fund for Muscular Dystrophy will revive their restaurant series to help raise funds for those in need with muscular dystrophy. Join them for Crab Leg & Cocktail Thursday ($20 pound of Alaskan Snow Crab Legs + $5 Signature Martinis & Cocktails). All purchases will have a percentage of proceeds going directly towards current grant applicants with muscular dystrophy across the U.S. Till 9:00 p.m.  coloradofmd.org; latitudeseafoodco.com

MAY 12TH

Turner’s Body Shop Band

STEAM BELL BEER WORKS | 7:00 PM

Grab a beer while listening to Jay Turner Music, the family band you can’t forget playing the songs you forgot you loved. Till 10:00 p.m. steambell.beer/events

MAY 14TH

Mother’s Day Peony Picnic

HISTORIC TUCKAHOE | 11:30 AM

Join Historic Tuckahoe for a Peony Picnic in mom’s honor! Bring the family, pack a lunch, and spend the afternoon on the grounds. Peonies will be available for $5 per stem. The Historic Home will be open for tours for an additional $5 per person or $15 per family (if pre-purchased). Tickets will also be available at the gate; children under 5 are free. Till 4:00 p.m. eventbrite.com

MAY 14TH

Mother’s Day Brunch

21 SPOONS | 10:00 AM

Join Chef Ann Butler and 21 Spoons for a Mother’s Day Brunch. $45 per person. Till 3:00 p.m. 21spoonsmidlo.com

MAY 19TH-21ST

38th Annual Lebanese Food Festival

ST. ANTHONY MARONITE

CHURCH | 11:00 AM

The Lebanese Food Festival is a day of celebrating Lebanese culture with food, music, and dancing. Available dishes include hummus, yogurt and cucumber salad, kabobs, falafel, and desserts. Alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages will be available. A variety of vegetarian dishes will also be available. Friday and Saturday from 11:00 a.m.

Till 10:00 p.m. Sunday from 10:00 a.m. till 8:00 p.m. lebanesefoodfestival.com

MAY 19TH

Senior Prom

THOMAS DALE HIGH SCHOOL | 6:00 PM

Chesterfield County adults age 50+ are invited to a Senior Prom dance at Thomas Dale High School. Spectrum will provide music. There will be light refreshments and raffle prizes. This event is free, and you must register online. Till 9:00 p.m. chesterfield.gov

MAY 19TH

Our Lady of Lourdes Bull Roast/Spring Carnival

OUR LADY OF LOURDES

CATHOLIC SCHOOL | 4:00 PM

The Bull Roast is an afternoon of fun and games for children and adults. The event is open to the public, and all proceeds will benefit the school. Till 9:00 p.m. facebook.com

MAY 19TH

Movie in the Park

DEEP RUN PARK | 7:30 PM

Check out Deep Run Park for a movie night featuring  An American Tail, the story of a young mouse on a quest to find his family after he was separated from them during a stormy boat ride from Russia to America. Bring your dinner, a lawn chair or a blanket, and a flashlight. A food truck will be available for concessions. Till 9:30 p.m. henrico.us

MAY 24TH

Wine Pairing Dinner with Santiago Gouguenheim

MIDLOTHIAN CHEF’S KITCHEN

| 6:00 PM

Enjoy five courses paired with five wines from Argentina. Hear from Chef Dunlap and guest Santiago Gouguenheim from Gouguenheim

Winery in Argentina about the wine pairings and how the creations came to be. Till 8: 00 p.m. Tickets are required, $95 per person.

midlothianchefskitchen.com

MAY 25TH

Fidos After Five

LEWIS GINTER BOTANICAL

GARDEN | 5:00 PM

The Garden partners with the Richmond SPCA, allowing leashed dogs during Flowers After Five on select nights only. Dogs must be leashed and current on rabies vaccinations. Guests are invited to bring their own blankets and chairs. Food and drinks are available for purchase. This event is free for Garden members. Price for non-members: $17 for adults and $14 for seniors. lewisginter.org

MAY 29TH

Sandston Memorial Day Parade

SANDSTON RECREATION

AREA | 1:00 PM

Celebrate Memorial Day with a parade hosted by Henrico Recreation and Parks featuring live music from STEEL Band, activities, and vendor booths. The parade starts at the intersection of Williamsburg and Beulah Roads.  The block party starts at 2:00 p.m. at the Sandston Recreation Area on JB Finley Street. Till 4:00 p.m. henr ico.us

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