Midlothian, VA April 2024

The call of the “wild.”

Award-Winning Dog Training in the Richmond Metro Area

Spring is here. And suddenly, Susie is seeing ghosts, hearing voices, and who knows what else. You turn your head for one second, and she’s off and running to join her pack once again, your shoulder wrenched out of its socket because you were holding on so tight to the leash. Instead of you fighting her animal instinct, we can teach her to control it so that your next foray to the dog park doesn’t turn into Feral Bueller’s Day Off

804-944-8500 | dogtrainingelite.com/richmond

PHOTO

heart

is at the of it all. from hepburn to stravinsky, there’s something for everyone in april!

MUSIC, FASHION, AND DANCE TAKE THE STAGE THIS MONTH!

Good Shot judy

saturday, 4/6, 7:30 p.m.

Good Shot Judy, a big band jazz ensemble, returns to the Jimmy Dean Theater for a night of classic swing and crooner classics. The band’s origins can be traced back to the Cahoon brothers, Brett and Jeff, who formed a small combo to explore old-time jazz standards. The ensemble’s energy and commitment to delivering classic melodies led to the formation of Good Shot Judy. The band’s allure lies in its electric execution and the pleasure of enjoying the music the way it was meant to be heard.

Ovation 2024!

A Celebration of the Arts

saturday, 4/13, 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.

This year, Ovation 2024 honors the timeless elegance of Audrey Hepburn with a Breakfast at Tiffany’s theme. Join us for a delicious brunch with an option to add the Mimosa Bar to your ticket. Ashley Jefferson owner of Very Ashley will dazzle our guests with a spectacular fashion show featuring luxurious looks that are sure to please. Your attendance, the silent auction, and our raffle support the Perkinson Center for the Arts and Education.

Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake

Tuesday, 4/23, 7:30 P.M.

The Perkinson Center for the Arts is showcasing the European Royal Classical Ballet’s Swan Lake, a timeless tale of romance and enchantment. Set to Tchaikovsky’s groundbreaking score, the ballet tells the story of true love and sacrifice. The ballet invites audiences to witness the strength of pure and eternal love in the face of a dark sorcerer, showcasing the technical prowess and emotional depth of the professional artists.

Richmond Symphony: a little night music

Friday, 4/26, 7:30 P.M.

Pre-concert talk, 6:30 P.M.

Join us for RSO’s Metro Series presentation of A Little Night Music! Stop by early and enjoy learning more during a free pre-concert talk.

Chia-Hsuan Lin, conductor Victoria Chung, oboe

Program:

Mozart’s Eine Kleine Nachtmusik Higdon’s Oboe Concerto Stravinsky’s Dumbarton Oaks

Mozart’s Symphony No. 27

Greetings and Welcome to April, Midlothian!

This month is full of beautiful things, such as blooming flowers, refreshing rain, bright sunshine, and freshly cut grass. All of these signify the arrival of a beautiful spring season. Spring is the second most popular season after fall and is my personal favorite because of the earth's display of the beauty of life. As we prepare for this season, we are reminded how to invest our time, talent, and money in the things and people that mat ter most to us. It is the perfect time to prepare our lawns, homes, and plans for the upcoming season.

We are excited to present the April edition of our investment issue! We are thrilled to share with you the benefits of investing in our homes, yards, and families, which can yield greater returns than we expect. We have an exciting lineup of resources to inspire you to turn your investment dreams into reality. We believe supporting our local experts is an excellent way to promote personal growth and strengthen our community.

This month, take a look around your home, your place of business, and the world around you! There are so many people, relationships, and blessings for which to be grateful and resources that we have not even considered right in front of us. Let’s take full advantage of the life we’ve been given and explore how we can invest in others’ futures and success!

Carpe Diem!

AARON SWART, PUBLISHER @MIDLOTHIANLIFESTYLE

Aaron Swart | aaron.swart@citylifestyle.com

Joanna Tannenbaum

joanna.tannenbaum@citylifestyle.com

Steven Casupanan steven.casupanan@citylifestyle.com

Ashley Sill | ashley.sill@citylifestyle.com

Naylor Taliaferro | lcrmediallc@gmail.com

Steven Casupanan steven.casupanan@citylifestyle.com

Amanda Rae Linas

Beloved Pet & Equine Photography

city scene

1-2: Louis the otter prepares to meet the newest member of the otter family at Maymont. 3-7: A newly rescued otter explores her new home at The Robins Nature Center at Maymont. Photography by Maymont Foundation

to be seen in the magazine?

BERRY FRESH! Springtime at Four Seasons!

UR Students Create and Launch New Snack

A group of University of Richmond students created a new food product called Noosh as part of their coursework. Noosh is a contemporary version of baba ganoush, which is a traditional Middle Eastern dish. The product is marketed as a healthy dip and sauce option, competing with hummus, guacamole, and salsa. In addition to launching online sales, the company organized an on-campus event in February where dip samples were offered. Noosh is currently in the process of securing

retailers to stock its products.

Lego Selects Local General Contractor to Build Chesterfield Factory

Lego picked Hourigan to build its new manufacturing facility in Chesterfield. The site will feature 13 buildings, covering 1.7M square feet in Meadowville Technology Park, and will be used for brick production, offices, and warehouses. Lego will hire over 1,760 new employees at the Chesterfield facility over the next decade, with construction starting later this year.

The Wealth Advisory Firm of the Rockefellers Extends to Richmond

Rockefeller Global Family Office, a wealth management firm associated with one of the most prominent business families in America, recently opened an office in Richmond. They hired Lewis Wealth Partners and set up an office in the Williams Mullen Center in downtown Richmond. Rockefeller Global is a subsidiary of Rockefeller Capital Management, which caters to ultra- and high-networth individuals and families, institutions, and corporations. Richmond is the firm’s second office in Virginia, with another location in Arlington.

@melaniecooperstudios

Two Local Landscaping Companies Pair Up

Three friends, Rilee Harman, Ian Smith, and Billy Stinson, recently merged two local landscaping companies. They have purchased Robbins Landscaping and now it operates under the same ownership as their other firm, Terra Forma Landscaping. South River Capital has facilitated the merger, but the two companies are still being operated separately. By bringing the two companies together, Terra Forma can now enjoy the benefits of Robbins' brand recognition, which has grown more organically through word-of-mouth.

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Chesterfield County to Celebrate 275th Anniversary

Celebrating its 275th anniversary, Chesterfield County will hit a significant milestone next month. The

county was officially established on May 25, 1749, and its history and residents will be commemorated throughout the year. Various county-wide events will take place to celebrate the community's history, and Memorial Day weekend will offer signature festivities. For more information about these events and potential additions, visit: chesterfield.gov

Old-Fashioned Lynchburg Diner Comes to RVA

Dave Saunders, an advertising executive from Richmond and owner of Texas Inn, is set to take over the space previously occupied by Izzy's Kitchen. The new Texas Inn location will be situated in the Devil's Triangle area of the Museum District and is aiming to open in May. The restaurant, which is also known as the T-Room in Lynchburg, has been serving classic diner cuisine since 1927. Saunders hopes that the new Richmond location will become a neighborhood favorite for everyone.

quality. We’ve compiled some of our top company

for the services that might be on your mind this month in an effort to make your lives a little easier.

Mortgage Lender

Katie Zacherle - Atlantic Bay Mortgage Group atlanticbay.com/katiezacherle | 540.522.9356

MasonMac Mortgage weloverva.com | 804.767.4946

C & F Mortgage Corporation cfmortgagecorp.com | 804.858.8300

Alcova Mortgage alcovamidlothian.com | 804.794.1140

Capitol Mortgage Group capitolmortgagegroup.com | 804.362.7600

Law Firm

Airington Law airingtonlaw.com | 804.294.2719

Homiller Law Firm homillerlawfirm.com | 804.608.5228

Cravens & Noll cravensnoll.com | 804.330.9220

The Law Offices of Winslow & McCurry, PLLC wmmlegal.com | 804.423.1382

Leavitt & Martin, PLLC leavittmartinlaw.com | 804.873.4004

Auto Dealership

Mercedes-Benz of Midlothian mbofmidlothian.com | 804.419.9600

Land Rover Richmond landoverrichmond.com | 888.353.1773

Haley Toyota of Richmond haleytoyota.com | 804.816.2786

Pearson Honda personhonda.com | 877.357.4064

Whitten Brothers of Richmond whittenbrothers.com | 804.378.0707

Photo by Roberto Nickson on unsplash.com

MAXIMIZE YOUR PROFITS

ARTICLE BY JOANNA TANNENBAUM PHOTOGRAPHY BY SOUTHERN SUN LANDSCAPING

Why Investing in Your Property is a Smart Move with Southern Sun Landscaping

If you are a property owner, then you know the importance of making your land look its best. While landscaping is a great way to add value to your land, increase its curb appeal, and make it more attractive to potential buyers or renters, it can also enhance your lifestyle and contribute to environmental sustainability. By investing in professional landscaping, you can ensure that your property looks its best and offers substantial cost recovery over the long term.  Andrew Grider of Southern Sun Landscaping has gone above and beyond to gather some incredible insights from reputable sources, and he’s discovered some pretty amazing things to share with us:

• Enhanced Property Value: Landscaping plays a crucial role in determining the value of a property. According to a study by Trees.com that was featured by the NAR (National Association of Realtors), poor landscaping can reduce a property's value by up to 30%. This highlights the financial significance of maintaining a well-kept and visually appealing landscape to preserve and increase a property's value.

• Curb Appeal and First Impressions: The 2023 Remodeling Impact Report found that 92% of realtors suggest enhancing a home's curb appeal before listing it. A well-designed landscape is crucial in making a good first impression, which sets the tone for the buyer's perception of the property.

• Increased Demand and Scope During the Pandemic: The COVID-19 pandemic has led to an increased demand for outdoor home improvement projects as homeowners prefer to stay home and enjoy their newly landscaped outdoor space, according to the National Association of Landscaping Professionals.

• Emotional and Lifestyle Benefits: Studies have shown that landscaping projects and maintenance can greatly enhance a homeowner's enjoyment of their property. According to the 2023 Remodeling Impact Report, the average Joy Score for these spaces is 9.7 out of 10, reflecting the high level of satisfaction and pleasure derived from them.

• Improved Functionality and Livability: Landscaping is not only about creating beautiful outdoor spaces; it also serves to enhance their functionality and livability. Outdoor features such as kitchens, decks, and patios not only improve the aesthetics of a property but also extend its living space and usability.

• Environmental Sustainability: Thoughtfully designed landscapes contribute to environmental sustainability, improving air quality and supporting local wildlife. Strategic placement of trees and plants can also aid in energy efficiency, providing shade and reducing cooling costs.

• Cost Recovery and Return on Investment: Landscaping projects often offer substantial cost recovery. For example, standard lawn care services have shown a 217% return on investment, indicating that money spent on landscaping can significantly enhance a property's resale value, according to the 2023 Remodeling Impact Report.

Andrew’s team of highly skilled and experienced professionals offers a wide range of customized solutions tailored to the specific needs and preferences of each client. They prioritize quality and sustainability in all their projects, using high-quality materials and implementing sustainable practices to create environmentally responsible landscapes. From primary lawn care to complete landscape renovations, Southern Sun works closely with its clients from the initial consultation to project completion, ensuring that their vision is understood. They have extensive knowledge of the area's specific landscaping challenges and opportunities, allowing them to create and maintain landscapes that thrive in regional climates and conditions.

Southern Sun values its relationships with its clients and the community and enjoys partnering with local non-profits and contributing to community events. If you would like to receive an estimate, please use the form on their website at southernsunlandscaping.com/request-an-estimate. You can also call them at (540) 420-0402.

Andrew Grider

INTRODUCING VIVI, MIDLOTHIAN LIFESTYLE’S APRIL PET OF THE MONTH

Pretty in Pink

ARTICLE BY AMANDA RAE LINAS PHOTOGRAPHY BY BELOVED PET & EQUINE PHOTOGRAPHY

““Despite reaching double digits, Vivi has the spunk of a two-year-old!”

Meet Vivi, the vivacious 10-year-old West Highland Terrier who defies her age with boundless energy. Despite reaching double digits, Vivi has the spunk of a two-year-old! She is a social butterfly and quite vocal.  She’ll talk to all of the dogs she meets. This water-loving girl loves to frolic up and down the beach. She obviously looks great in pink and is incredibly smart. You would think she understands all of the words coming out of your mouth. She’ll take you up on a rousing game of playing with her toys any day. Her zest for life is infectious. And, as an extra special surprise, April is also her birthday month! So Happy Birthday, Vivi!

To submit your pet for a chance to be featured in Midlothian Lifestyle, visit: belovedpetphoto. com/midlothian

Virginia Design Group

MAKING YOUR DREAMS COME TRUE

Imagine having a brilliant designer who can bring your vision to life with their unique abilities and expertise. That's exactly what Jennifer Duncan of Virginia Design Group can do for you! With her exceptional talents and experience, she can craft a custom design that perfectly matches your needs and desires. Whether you're looking for something sleek and modern or timeless and classic, Jennifer has the skills to make your dream a reality.

With over 30 years of experience in the design industry and more than 20 years of experience in the construction industry, Jennifer has worked on many

ARTICLE BY JOANNA TANNENBAUM | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN MAGOR

different projects, from small powder rooms to complete home renovations across the Richmond area and beyond. She successfully collaborates with clients to create customized spaces that are attractive, functional, and personalized to their family, lifestyle, and visual preferences. So why not let her work her magic and create something truly extraordinary just for you?

To learn more about Virginia Design Group or to schedule a consultation with Jennifer, visit vadesigngroup.com or call (804) 744-0620.

Miriam Airington-Fisher

INVEST IN YOURSELF

Achieve the Perfect Work-Life Balance with Miriam Airington-Fisher’s Comprehensive Course for Lawyers

Miriam Airington-Fisher is an inspiration to her community. Just eight years ago, she started her own law firm while caring for her newborn baby. Even though she was presented with numerous challenges along the way, Miriam overcame them and achieved remarkable success. She has always understood the struggles of working parents, particularly mothers, and during the pandemic, she decided to help by writing a book entitled Mom's A Lawyer: How to Start a Firm and Take Control of Your Life. The book was a huge success and prompted Miriam to create an online course, Mom’s a Lawyer: The Course, for any lawyer interested in starting

their own family-friendly law practice. Her course is an excellent example of self-investment to achieve a fulfilling work-life balance, particularly for parents who often neglect their own needs.

Miriam's digital program is self-guided, self-paced, and structured around the DREAM acronym, which stands for demystify, reimagine, empower, align, and manifest. Each of the five modules includes a combination of video, audio, exercises, and templates. The course is designed to equip individuals with the necessary tools to start a law firm in just 90 days. The first module focuses on helping the user develop

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ARTICLE BY JOANNA TANNENBAUM | PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMANDA MILES

their vision for their law practice, while the remaining four modules provide practical steps for launching it. “This course is designed as a ‘what I wish I had when I started’ product,” explains Miriam. “I speak to so many women attorneys who feel stuck in a job, and they are intimidated by the prospect of starting a practice for themselves. There is this outsized perception of risk that, in my experience, isn’t reality; it is possible to launch a profitable, family-friendly law practice.”

Amidst the numerous resources available for lawyers, Mom’s A Lawyer caters specifically to parents who want to maintain profitability and accessibility while setting up their own law firm. “Parents, especially mothers, can’t work 24/7 and sleep at the office,” Miriam says. “Starting a firm is hard work, but with the right plan and resources, it can be done in a sustainable way.” In addition to her course, Miriam offers personalized services to lawyers

who are starting new law firms or seeking to make their existing firms more lucrative and family-friendly, a topic that has become increasingly important for keeping talented lawyers and support staff.

If you’re feeling burnt out from the traditional law firm environment and looking for a change, check out Mom's A Lawyer. Miriam's program is designed to give you the tools and confidence you need to start your own firm on your own terms. With her all-inclusive course, you can say goodbye to the corporate ladder and create a fulfilling legal career that aligns with your personal and professional goals. Don't settle for a one-size-fits-all approach to your legal career. Take control of your future and invest in yourself with Mom's A Lawyer.

To receive special discounts and learn more about Miriam, her book, or her course, subscribe to her newsletter at momsalawyer.com. You can find Miriam on Instagram and TikTok @lawyerlikeamother.

DREAM

Miriam structured her course around the DREAM framework, which covers the five essential categories one should consider when embarking on this journey.

Demystify

Dissolve the belief that having a fulfilling career and personal life is impossible.

Reimagine

Redefine the vision for your professional and personal lives.

Empower

Equip yourself with all the tools you need to start a law firm in 90 days or less.

Align

Create clear boundaries between personal and professional life for co-existence.

Manifest

Make it happen, and don’t look back.

This self-paced course includes video introductions by Miriam, audio content, and supporting documents and exercises. Moreover, Miriam has added touchpoints throughout the course for virtual check-ins, where participants can discuss any questions or challenges with her.

events

APRIL 5TH

Boston Comedy Club at Steam Bell Beer Works

Steam Bell Beer Works | 8:00 PM

Boston Comedy Club presents professional comedians from Boston, NYC, & beyond! Each show has a unique lineup featuring acts seen on TV and heard on popular podcasts. Till 9:30 p.m. Tickets range from $20 - $25 per person and can be purchased online at eventbrite.com

APRIL 14TH

Kite Day

River City Sportsplex | 1:00 PM

Come out with your family for a fun day of kite flying. There will be entertainment for your child to enjoy, as well as a food vendor on site. You are welcome to bring your own kite, but for those who need one to participate, a free kite will be provided while supplies last. Till 4:00 p.m. facebook.com

APRIL 18TH

Words & Wisdom

Virginia Museum of History & Culture | 5:45 PM

Join the Senior Board of the Children's Hospital Foundation for the Words & Wisdom event featuring a performance by singer-songwriter Ashley Campbell. A highly accomplished musician, songwriter, and singer, Ashley put her career and life on hold when her father, country music legend Glen Campbell, was diagnosed with Alzheimer's. She has been sharing her family's journey with the disease through her music and performances. Purchase tickets online: chfrichmond.org