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As the warmth of May unfolds around us, I find myself reflecting on the incredible women who shape our lives—mother figures, grandmothers, sisters, and friends. This issue of Midlothian Lifestyle is a heartfelt tribute to all the ladies who inspire and uplift us daily, especially as Mother’s Day is celebrated this month. To all women out there, thank you for your unwavering love, guidance, and the countless sacrifices you make. Your strength and grace illuminate our paths, and this issue is dedicated to you.
In the spirit of creativity and connection, we invite you read about a delightful DIY day with mom. There’s something uniquely special about crafting together, whether it's creating handmade gifts or working on a home project that reflects your shared tastes. These experiences are not just about the final product; they are about the laughter, stories, and cherished moments that unfold along the way.
As the season is unfolding, we are also excited to share how to help create floral bowls for your gatherings, how to do some self care, and some tips on collecting. We hope to always inspire you to new experiences and ideas that sparkle even more curiosity into your own personality and creativity.
Speaking of sparkle, we’re featuring an amazing local jeweler whose long-standing history, vision, and dedication to excellence in Richmond will have you taking a trip to see what gifts may be in store for you this Mother’s Day and for many other upcoming milestones!
This month also brings a wave of pride and excitement as we celebrate the achievements of high school and college graduates. To the graduates, congratulations on reaching this significant milestone! Your hard work and determination have brought you to this moment, and we couldn’t be prouder. As you embark on new journeys, remember that the love and support from your families, including other positive, strong, encouraging women in your lives, will always be a powerful legacy and resource for you.
Lastly, we are thrilled to bring back our delightful puppy, Jocko, whose story reminds us of the unconditional love that our pets bring into our lives. They are a source of joy and companionship, in ways words cannot capture.
As you explore this issue, may you find inspiration and connection; let’s celebrate the remarkable women in our lives!
Gratefully,
AARON SWART, PUBLISHER @MIDLOTHIANLIFESTYLE
PUBLISHER
Aaron Swart | aaron.swart@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Aaron Swart | aaron.swart@citylifestyle.com
SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
Steven Casupanan | steven.casupanan@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Naylor Taliaferro | lcrmediallc@gmail.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Amanda Rae Linas | amandarae@belovedpetphoto.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Aaron Swart, Amanda Rae Linas
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Amanda Rae Linas
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Josh Govero
LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler Learn how to start
3:5-6
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by Andrea
ARTICLE BY AARON SWART, MSW
PHOTOGRAPHY
BY AMANDA RAE LINAS
In the heart of Richmond, amidst the hustle and bustle of a thriving city, lies a beacon of luxury and craftsmanship— Carreras Jewelers. Founded by the visionary Bill Carreras in the 1960s, this esteemed establishment has grown from humble beginnings of selling diamond engagement rings to classmates at the University of Virginia to becoming one of the most revered names in the jewelry industry.
Since its inception, Carreras Jewelers has been guided by a singular philosophy: to offer the finest quality gemstones paired with exceptional service and unmatched education. With the opening of its first showroom in 1977, the brand ensured that each piece of jewelry met the highest standards. Today, as the company approaches its 60th anniversary, this promise remains steadfast—echoing through the decades and resonating with a loyal clientele. The Carreras team embodies a deep commitment to continuing education in the jewelry industry, which has been a pillar for their expertise since day one.
In 2002, Carreras made a significant move to enhance clients’ experiences by consolidated its three locations into a single, elegant showroom. This transition has allowed them to present a curated collection of both estate and contemporary designer pieces under one roof, creating a seamless shopping experience. With Bill Carreras’ passing in 2006, Rejena Carreras stepped in to lead the business. The milestone of celebrating their 50th anniversary in 2017 further solidified Carreras Jewelers’ status as one of Richmond’s oldest and most respected private jewelers.
At Carreras, jewelry isn’t just an accessory; it’s a legacy. Their design philosophy is deeply rooted in timelessness, focusing on high-quality gemstones and craftsmanship that withstands the test of time. Carreras’ buyers consistently curate a diverse array of styles—from classic and contemporary to artistic pieces—each selected with a commitment to enduring quality and sustainability.
With partnerships with top-tier designers, Carreras Jewelers offers exclusive and one-of-akind pieces that speak to the individuality of each client. The craftsmanship behind every item is unmatched, supported by a team of highly qualified gemologists and appraisers. Their investment in cutting-edge technology ensures that every piece bearing the Carreras name meets rigorous standards of quality and authenticity.
Trust and transparency are the cornerstones of Carreras Jewelers’ client relationships. With a collective experience of over 130 years, the welcoming team has fostered connections that span generations. Many clients who once purchased engagement rings from Bill Carreras now return with their children and grandchildren, celebrating key life milestones—engagements, weddings, and beyond.
Rejena Carreras, a VCU School of the Arts alumna, plays a pivotal role in intertwining the jewelry brand with Richmond’s vibrant creative community. Her commitment to the arts—spanning visual, performance, and fashion— has fostered lasting partnerships, allowing Carreras to offer luxury jewelry that not only dazzles but also reflects the cultural richness of the city.
In an industry often riddled with challenges, Carreras Jewelers stands firm in its commitment to ethical sourcing. By tracking their natural diamonds from mine to finished piece, they ensure responsible sourcing and uphold the integrity that has defined the brand since its inception.
As Carreras Jewelers prepares to celebrate its 60th anniversary, the focus is on growth and education. Investing in team certifications and embracing the vibrancy of the Westhampton neighborhood, Carreras is poised to continue its legacy of excellence while adapting to the evolving preferences of its clientele.
For those aspiring to enter the jewelry industry, Carreras offers sage advice: “Get educated and get involved.” With resources available through the Gemological Institute of America and the value of hands-on experience in sales, the path to success is illuminated by knowledge and passion.
As Carreras Jewelers continues to shine brightly in Richmond, it remains a testament to the timeless elegance and craftsmanship that transforms precious gemstones into cherished heirlooms. Here’s to another 60 years of brilliance!
Come visit Carreras at 121 Libbie Avenue in Richmond, call 804.282.7018 to speak with a member of the team, or please visit online at https://www.carrerasjewelers.com/
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Remember Jocko’s debut in August 2024, in the Kid and Pets Issue? Then just eight weeks of age, Jocko Paden weighed in at about 5 pounds and was a ball of fluff and “tuff” Well, he’s gotten bigger, but the fluff and tuff remain! Jocko was born on May 16th, 2024; it’s his birthday month!
Along with his courageous, sweet, and exuberant spirit, Jocko loves to run wildly in the soccer fields near home when on his daily walkies. Jocko is a master in the art of tug-of war and loves to retrieve any toy or ball that daddy throws his way!
In the past year, Jocko has become an official Emotional Support Animal for daddy, and his unconditional love and devotion have helped in so many ways. Jocko knows no stranger on the trails, and he enjoys visiting every single tree he sees. Jocko loves to chase squirrels, and likes to growl a little bit when he hears an unfamiliar sound in the house. Jocko likes to climb on the cushions of the couch and sit next to daddy’s shoulder when daddy is home and eating dinner. Jocko loves his daddy and follows him everywhere- even to the bathroom!
One of Jocko’s favorite pastimes is watching TV with daddy. Whenever a doorbell rings in a show, he barks as if it’s his own and looks to daddy to confirm the reality that we should be concerned! Jocko loves to go outside with daddy and enjoys the back porch in this warm weather while chasing tennis balls. Happy Birthday, Jocko!
ARTICLE BY MEGAN HOBAN
As consumers, we are constantly being enticed to buy. Whether it’s the jewelry we can’t live without, concert tickets to a show we don’t want to miss, or that favorite pair of shoes calling our name, we buy what we love, and art should be no different.
If you are new to acquiring original art, you may find it daunting, but it shouldn’t be. It is a special purchase that forces you to dig deep and discover a bit more about yourself. At first, many people shy away from buying original art because of the commitment. It’s a big decision after all, and how do you really know when it’s the “perfect” piece? Because art is subjective, part of the process is learning what style of art is the best fit for you. Is it colorful and energetic abstracts, or soothing landscapes that catch your eye? Maybe you are drawn to local photography, or even figurative works. There is no wrong answer, and maybe it’s a mix of several styles that creates your unique collection. The best way to find out your “art personality” is to get out and visit your local galleries. Consider making it a tradition to visit galleries while traveling or buy a piece of art as a gift on special occasions. In the gallery setting you can explore various art styles, mediums, and even learn more about the talented artists who create those works.
With the purchase of original art comes other considerations. Often, we have clients who need direction figuring out what size of art they need and its placement in the design of their space. If you find a piece of art you love, you will always find a spot for it. Ask the gallery if they offer in-home art consultation services to see the piece in your setting. Great custom framing is key, and well-designed framing is the jewelry to a great piece of art. Quality archival framing protects your art from UV rays that can damage a piece over time. Original art should last generations.
I’m often asked, should I buy art for investment? There is a place for investment art, but I don’t believe in buying art with the pretense that it will go up in value. There is no guarantee it will and to me, good investment art brings different riches to your life. Art that brings you joy, adds personality to your space, and makes your home original is an investment in you. The best art investment should be the feeling you experience gazing into an oil painting that perfectly captures a warm sunset over the prairie, or the texture created by a palette knife on the abstract that seems to pop off the canvas. That is what makes investing in original art priceless.
Art that brings you joy, adds personality to your space, and makes your home original is an investment in you.
ARTICLE BY LEANN PARKER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Spring, come quickly! And if not, bring spring indoors anyway. Flowers brighten any room, any day of the year. No need to wait for a special occasion or holiday – give yourself permission to brighten everyday life with a bowl full of flowers. Place florals in an entryway, kitchen, living room space or even bathroom. Florals make any room come alive with pops of color and the smells of spring that’s just about ready to burst outside.
Consider this your personal invitation to play with flowers by creating your very own Floral Bowl Arrangement. Use any cereal bowl in the kitchen and a bundle of store bought flowers. For extra texture and depth, look for small spring branches and ornamental grasses found in your yard to pop into the arrangement, like I did here. Then, place your floral bowl in a place where you need that burst of joy most. Enjoy!
• 1 bundle of flowers (about 24 stems) + floral food packet
• spring branches & ornamental grasses found in your yard (optional)
• 6” bowl (cereal bowl size)
• floral shears (or garden clippers, kitchen shears, even craft scissors in a pinch)
• 12” square cut chicken wire
• wire cutters
• garden gloves to protect your hands when forming chicken wire
• clear floral tape (scotch tape will also do)
• lazy susan to easily move your arrangement and work from all sides (optional)
• First prepare the mechanics. The mechanics are the non-floral elements used to assemble a floral arrangement. These materials will act as a grid in which the flowers are built into to hold each stem in its place.
• Wearing garden gloves, cut chicken wire roughly into a 12” square. Loosely form the chicken wire into a ball and place inside the bowl.
• Use clear floral tape to make an X shape over the top of the bowl to hold the chicken wire securely into place. This will also give extra support when adding the floral elements later.
• Fill the bowl with water and mix in a flower food packet, if your flowers came with one.
• Begin to arrange floral elements into the bowl. As a general rule, you will want to start with the strongest, thickest stems and end with the most delicate stems. Here, I began with branches, then the largest base flowers followed by taller focal flowers, and finally delicate stems, grasses and wispy greens.
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ARTICLE BY MEL BOBAN
An afternoon spent together is priceless with today’s busy schedules. Instead of going out, staying in can provide quaint, quiet one-on-one time for a mother and daughter (or multiple daughters). Finding time on calendars is the hard part, and filling that time is all fun from there. Here are a few favorite ideas for inspiration that may spark excitement for planning those special times together.
Custom DIY charm necklaces and bracelets are trending. Gather a theme idea: birthstones, family initials, travels or even favorite hobbies, and procure charms from your local craft store or online shop. Selecting charms for each other also could be a fun way to bring delight to the crafting occasion. Necklaces and bracelets can be made for each other, or as future gifts for upcoming occasions such as a family wedding, a birthday milestone or an anniversary.
Storytelling makes for the best memories. Structure memory recall by filming or journaling interview-style question-and-answer sessions, cataloging information for future generations. Videos and notes with detailed family adventures are priceless, and we all always wish we had more of them.
Text conversations around kitchen tips or ingredient procurement seem endless. Spend some time together in the kitchen preparing favorite family recipes, sharing Mom’s best tips and tricks. Choosing freezer-friendly meals is a great way to walk away with meals for upcoming busy days. There’s nothing like Mom’s recipes!
Melissa Utt Heatley has recently joined the Virginia Design Group team as Senior Designer. She boasts over 12 years of specializing in kitchen and bath design, with over 20 years of experience in construction, interior design, and architecture, along with advanced degrees in interior design and architecture from James Madison University and Virginia Tech, respectively. Her approach emphasizes the balance between artistry and functionality, crafting spaces that significantly enhance her clients’ lives.
Create your own DIY sugar scrub for a perfect gift for a special person in your life.
To make one 8 ounce mason jar of vanilla orange sugar scrub, you need:
• 1/4 cup of coconut oil
• 3/4 cup of sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 10 drops of orange essential oil
Soften the coconut oil in the microwave for a few seconds. Next add the vanilla extract and the orange essential oil. Then, stir in the sugar, a little at a time. Print off a fun label or attach a ribbon to the jar, and your gift is ready. Enjoy!
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