A P R I L 2 02 1
Virtual SELLING PROGRAM
THINKING ABOUT SELLING? WHY NOT DO IT FROM THE COMFORT OF YOUR HOME? Homeowner takes pictures and/or video of the interior & exterior of the property Email your image & video files to the Memorie Group along with your meeting availability The Memorie Group will get in touch to schedule your virtual listing consultation Sign electronically & set up contactless photography Virtual showings will be available online SCHEDULE YOUR VIRTUAL CONSULTATION TODAY Ben Munson Managing Broker ben@memorie.com 757.504.3007
Williamsburg’s TOP 15 HOME SALES
*
*Data reflects most recent home sales 30 days prior to publication.
ADDRESS
SUBDIVISION
BED
BATH
SQ FT
LIST PRICE
SALES PRICE
DAYS
111 Rivers Edge
Kingsmill
4
3.1
4,413
$1,200,000
$1,200,000
3
2937 Barrets Pointe RD
Governors Land
3
2.2
4,053
$1,225,000
$1,178,000
82
104 George Sandys
Kingsmill
5
5.0
5,219
$1,225,000
$1,170,000
140
2984 River Reach
Governors Land
5
3.1
4,827
$1,125,000
$1,055,000
0
2285 W Island RD
Governors Land
4
3.2
5,922
$1,050,000
$970,000
41
108 Berrow
Fords Colony
4
3.1
5,863
$995,000
$945,000
97
105 Troon
Fords Colony
6
4.0
4,994
$950,000
$940,000
99
132 Enclave CT
Kingsmill
3
3.1
2,726
$899,000
$899,000
0
136 Enclave CT
Kingsmill
3
3.1
2,842
$889,000
$889,000
2
1825 Old Woods CT
Governors Land
5
3.1
5,171
$865,000
$845,000
15
708 Richmond RD
College Terrace
5
5.1
4,078
$850,000
$830,000
246
1708 S Founders HL
Governors Land
4
4.1
4,974
$825,000
$810,000
17
2401 Pates Creek
The Vineyards
4
3.1
3,966
$739,900
$729,900
12
107 Pheasant Springs RD
Skimino Landing
5
4.0
4,651
$699,000
$699,000
8
105 Ainsdale
Fords Colony
5
3.1
5,320
$695,000
$695,000
2
3008 Hearthstone Governor’s Land $998,500 I 4,810 SF 4 Beds I 5.5 Baths
208 St. Cuthbert Fords Colony $599,000 I 3,753 SF 3 Beds I 2.5 Baths
Sherri Visser BHHS Towne Realty 254.702.9041
Sean Hyland Kingsmill Realty 757.784.4262
sherri.visser@bhhstowne.com
seanhyland68@gmail.com
Atlantic Bay Mortgage Group’s
Competitive Advantages 95% of our customers would recommend us
5,500 eClosings in 2020
More than 26,000 homeowners helped in 2020
Lauriane VanVoorhees Sr. Mortgage Banker NMLS #229013, Licensed in VA 757-561-7910 Lvanvoorhees@atlanticbay.com www.LaurianeVanVoorhees.com
Data is derived from internal metrics as of 02/25/21. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. All loans subject to income verification, credit approval and property appraisal. Not a commitment to lend. Atlantic Bay Mortgage Group, L.L.C. NMLS #72043 (nmlsconsumeraccess.org) is an Equal Opportunity Lender. Located at 600 Lynnhaven Parkway Suite 203 Virginia Beach, VA 23452.
LIFESTYLE LETTER
APRIL 2021 PUBLISHERS
Ben Munson | ben.munson@lifestylepubs.com Leslie Pearce | leslie.pearce@lifestylepubs.com
Happy Home and Spring HAPPY EASTER, HAPPY HOME AND SPRINGTIME.
AD DESIGNER
Matthew Endersbe L AYO UT DESIGNER
Kelsey Proctor CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Ashley Chavez, Kristine Hojnicki, Jenny Rapson
I am thrilled to join the Williamsburg Lifestyle Magazine as co-publisher with Ben
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Munson. In addition to supporting our advertising partners, we want to provide inspir-
Kellyn Wilson, Gari Ann Kia, 360 Tour Designs
ing, informative and uplifting content for our readers. With the pandemic, this past year has certainly been a challenge! It's been heartening to see how our area has creatively and generously made the best of a bad situation. We welcome the spring season for cleaning, repurposing rooms, buying or selling a home, planting or the many things that "home means to us". Does your living space need an update? This month is the perfect time to shop for homes or begin a renovation project that you’ve had your mind on for a while. Home projects can feel overwhelming, but just take it one step at a time. If you have multiple rooms that you want to remodel, which one will make the biggest difference in your overall life? Start with that, and you can always pause before beginning the next thing. As a former realtor for 20 years, I always think about resale value, if you might be moving in the next 5 years? Do those projects in your homes now, and enjoy them instead of right before selling. From my staging days, "we live in our homes different from the way
CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore
we sell our homes". While you are cleaning things out, you may find that you can repur-
ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor
pose some of your old treasures into furniture and decor that matches your new look.
OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson
Browse through some of our DIY projects from past issues online at CityLifestyle.com.
AD MANAGER Chad Jensen REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams
This month's issue includes our first 'Giving Back' feature where we have committed
WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell
to shining a light on the people and organizations that devote themselves to non-profit initiatives. It is our sincere hope that the exposure these monthly profiles provide opens doors to increased funding and capacity to serve the community. What better organization to spotlight in our Homes issue than Housing Partnerships and their Executive Director, Brandi Weiler who's mission is to ensure safe, warm & dry housing for dis-
514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO
tressed local property owners. Sincerely, ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MASSACHUSETTS | MICHIGAN MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA | NEVADA | NEW JERSEY NORTH CAROLINA | OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON | PENNSYLVANIA
Leslie W Pearce, Publisher
ON THE COVER Home Oasis in Kingsmill
PHOTOGRAPHY
BY
360 TOUR DESIGNS OF COSTAL VIRGINIA 4
Williamsburg Lifestyle | April 2021
CityLifestyle.com/Williamsburg
SOUTH CAROLINA | TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON
Proverbs 3:5-6 Williamsburg Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Williamsburg 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 Williamsburg Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.
Helping you achieve your retirement and investing goals
Lynne Williams Financial Advisor NMLS 1608153
437 W. Duke of Gloucester St. Williamsburg, VA 23185 Direct (757) 259-7124 Lynne.Williams@morganstanley.com https://advisor.morganstanley.com/lynne.williams
Investments and services offered through Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC. CRC 2864095 01/20 Untitled-2 1
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5
INSIDE THE ISSUE APRIL 2021
FEATURES 10 Home is Your Canvas The perfect backdrop is closer than you think
14 Get the Look With HGTV + DIY Network’s ‘Bargain Mansions’ Designer Tamara Day
20 A Working Home Bringing design, functionality & order
10 26
26 Home Work Laura Christian gives advice on creating a stylish and functional home office
20
14
DEPARTMENTS 4
Lifestyle Letter
8
Around Town
10
Open House
14
Inspired By
26 Renovate & Refine 30 DIY 32 Lifestyle Calendar 34 Giving Back
AT WILLIAMSBURG
SHOP • DINE • EXPLORE SHOPPING Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg Store Blink Brick & Vine Campus Shop The Carousel Children’s Boutique Chico’s The Christmas Shop Danforth Pewter Everything Williamsburg French Twist Boutique J. Fenton Gallery lululemon athletica
The Peanut Shop The Precious Gem R. Bryant Ltd. R. P. Wallace & Sons General Store Scotland House Ltd. The Shoe Attic Shoesters The Spice & Tea Exchange of Williamsburg Talbots Three Cabanas: A Lilly Pulitzer Signature Store The Williamsburg Winery Tasting Room & Wine Bar
William & Mary Bookstore & Café Wythe Candy & Gourmet Shop DINING Aromas Coffeehouse, Bakery & Café Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg Café Baskin-Robbins Berret’s Seafood Restaurant & Taphouse Grill Blackbird Bakery Blue Talon Bistro
The Cheese Shop DoG Street Pub Fat Canary illy Caffè La Piazza Mellow Mushroom Pizza Bakers Precarious Beer Project Secret Garden ENTERTAINMENT Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg Kimball Theatre
LINGER LONGER MERCHANTSSQUARE.ORG | © 2021 THE COLONIAL WILLIAMSBURG FOUNDATION
CityLifestyle.com/Williamsburg
7
AROUND TOWN
WILLIAMSBURG LIFESTYLE OPENS DOWNTOWN
MATCHSTICKS BBQ - COMING SOON Midtown Row is looking forward to welcoming
Williamsburg Lifestyle Magazine now has a
Matchsticks BBQ to their new location. Husband
home in the former Spice & Tea Shop location at
and wife team Matt and Nicole Sileno will soon
439 Prince George Street. The boutique real estate
be cranking out award winning BBQ in their new
brokerage, Memorie Group, took occupancy of the
permanent location!
space in December when the Tea Shop relocated
Currently on Thursdays you can find the
to 403 W Duke of Gloucester Street. While the dust
Matchsticks BBQ food truck in the Marshall's park-
was still flying during the build-out in February,
ing lot from 5pm - 7pm.
Williamsburg Lifestyle set up shop and began operations in Colonial Williamsburg. Stop on in and say hi!
QUEEN NAILS & SPA OPENED IN MIDTOWN ROW
4TH ANNUAL RAISE THE ROOF FREE ROOF CONTEST Streamline Roofing Company will be announcing the winner on Saturday April 3 in the Virginia Gazette.
Midtown Row welcomes Queen Nails & Spa!
Nominations were March 1-12 and voting March
They made their move in January to Midtown Row
22-31st. How exciting for the winner of the free roof! It
into the existing building that hosts Sals by Victor,
will be on their calendar, weather permitting for April 8.
the Virginia ABC store and the future home of Matchsticks BBQ .
SPONSORS: BERKLEY REALTY, MATCHSTICKS BBQ,
LAUFER
INSURANCE,
1250 Richmond Rd.
ROOFING, BEACON ROOFING, NEW YORK LIFE
757-808-7181
- MARK RILEY StreamlineRoofingCo.com
8
CERTAINTEED
Williamsburg Lifestyle | April 2021
is thrilled to announce...
OPENING SUMMER 2021! March 2021
RETAIL SPACE
available
NOW OPEN!
MORE IN STORE….
stay tuned!
RETAIL LEASING INQUIRIES: 215.873.7238 Michael Spector 301.503.2214 Marisa Michnick @midtownrow MidtownRowWilliamsburg.com
Eat Local LET’S SUPPORT OUR LOCAL RESTAURANTS MORE THAN EVER IN 2021!
LIFESTYLE
CityLifestyle.com/Williamsburg
CityLifestyle.com/Williamsburg
9
OPEN HOUSE
Capture the moments that make time at home special
ARTICLE JENNY RAPSON PHOTOGRAPHY KELLYN WILSON
10
Williamsburg Lifestyle | April 2021
home is your canvas
A photographer can help you find locations throughout your home that can make beautiful vignettes. Even the bedroom can be a place for fun family photos.
“I love to help my fa m i l ies showcase the ma g ic of a n ord i na r y day spent together i n the place they a re most com for ta ble.”
“HOME IS WHERE YOUR HEART IS,” MAY BE A COMMON
Wilson loves to challenge her clients to think about what they
PHRASE, BUT DURING A GLOBAL PANDEMIC, IT’S SO
love most about their home. What are favorite spots to play board
MUCH MORE! These days, home is also where many of us
games or favorite chairs to sit in and read a book with the kids, for
work and play, as well as make amazing memories with those
example? She points clients to those areas as the perfect canvas
we love. That’s why Williamsburg Lifestyle photographer Kellyn
for their family lifestyle portrait session. “Whether you are bring-
Wilson encourages her photography clients to take thoughts of
ing a baby to a just-built home, or you’ve added a sun room for
home one step further, and consider it the perfect canvas for a
game time to the place you’ve lived in for years, there’s always
lifestyle family photo session.
a special spot to highlight in the family home that is perfect for
“I absolutely love photographing families in their home envi-
lifestyle photos,” she says.
ronment,” says Wilson. “There’s something so poignant about
Every family’s story is unique and beautiful, and 99 percent of
photographing a newborn in a room that was designed espe-
it occurs in the family home. So, why not make it the backdrop
cially for them, or photographing a father and son playing in
of photos you’ll cherish forever? Wilson says some clients balk
front of a fireplace they built together. I love to help my families
at the task of getting their homes “photo ready,” but she doesn’t
showcase the magic of an ordinary day spent together in the
want that to be a deterrent. “You definitely do not need to do a
place they are most comfortable.”
full-house deep clean to hold a lifestyle portrait session with CONTINUED >
CityLifestyle.com/Williamsburg
11
OPEN HOUSE (CONTINUED)
“W hen you l ive
i n you r home day i n a nd day out, what ’s u n iq ue
a bout it m ig ht
not st ick out to you,” she says.
“I ca n def i n itely
of fer a f resh a nd new perspect ive
to help my cl ients see thei r home i n a new l ig ht.”
Capturing quiet everyday moments around your home can yield some of the most memorable photos.
12
your home as the canvas,” she says. “I promise I am not
games, cooking together, or parents and children read-
going to pull back your shower curtain and check your
ing together. And of course, nurseries make amazing
grout for stains! You really just need to have the selected
backdrops for newborn cuddles during newborn ses-
areas looking clean and neat. Your living room, the nurs-
sions, too. She’s also happy to consult with clients to
ery, or even the kitchen. Wherever your family has the
help them decide what parts of their home they want to
most fun together. No need to get stressed or hire a
focus on. “When you live in your home day in and day out,
house cleaner beforehand, I promise.”
what’s unique about it might not stick out to you,” she
Some of Wilson’s favorite ways to photograph fami-
says. “I can definitely offer a fresh and new perspective
lies having fun together at home include playing board
to help my clients see their home in a new light.” Some
Williamsburg Lifestyle | April 2021
things families often choose to incorporate are personal
them while you can. Life moves so fast!” In a time when
touches they’ve added to their homes:
families are at home together more than they have been
Perhaps its a handmade sign in one of the kid’s rooms,
in years, they are also investing more than ever in mak-
or an heirloom piece of furniture that has brought joy to
ing it a truly wonderful place to be. Why not show off
the family for generations. Often, it’s something even
the decor and comforts you’ve worked so hard on with a
simpler: a toy, a book, or a game that kids are obsessed
lifestyle portrait session in your home?
with at this moment in time, that you want to remember forever. “It truly is the little things in life that can make the
Here’s to beautiful memories made, captured, and cherished
best memories,” Wilson explains, “and it’s best to capture
together on your home canvas—forever!
CityLifestyle.com/Williamsburg
13
k i t c h e n
INSPIRED BY
Appreciation For What It Is Original Art by Catie Radney @catieradneyart
get the look WITH HGTV + DIY NETWORK’S ‘BARGAIN MANSIONS’ DESIGNER TAMARA DAY
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
14
Williamsburg Lifestyle | April 2021
DESIGNER TAMARA DAY IS A PUR-
skill set comes from growing up on a
VEYOR OF THE GLAM AND COZY.
farm. Growing up, she learned all of
This busy wife and mother of four styles
her hands-on skills from her dad, Ward
for the spirited home, mixing glam, com-
Schraeder. After getting married, Tamara
fort, and family. Tamara’s sense of style
and her husband took on old, dilapidated
and eye for what works has created an
homes that no one wanted and turned
insatiable demand for her interior design
them into beautiful spaces.
expertise, furniture and décor. Tamara
One home in particular made Tamara
grew up on the Midwestern plains in
the sought after designer she is today.
Salina,
While rescuing a home from foreclosure
Kansas.
Her
“do-it-yourself”
01
Season 3 | Episode 10 View the full project and shop for products at TamaraDay.com.
Banquette Tile: Daltile® Marble 3/8 x Random Mosaic in Venetian Calacatta
Island Chandeliers: Kichler Brisbane Cabinet Knob: Nostalgic Warehouse Deco Cabinet Knob
Cabinet Pull: Nostalgic Warehouse Farmhouse Cup Pull
Countertop + Backsplash: Daltile® Natural Stone Slab – Natural Quartzite in Crystalize (Polished) Cabinet Color: Dried Thyme – 75% (Sherwin Williams)
and neglect, the economy tanked, forcing Tamara to do a lot of the work herself. To stay on budget, she went to estate sales and redesigned furniture to fit her vision for the house. Out of this experience, a new brand was born— Growing Days, Tamara’s interior design, furniture, décor and lifestyle business. On HGTV & DIY Network’s Bargain Mansions, Tamara and her crew transform big, old houses that she finds at bargain prices. While respecting the integrity and history of the homes, she integrates modern design, function and style to the space – perfect for today’s families.
CONTINUED >
CityLifestyle.com/Williamsburg
15
INSPIRED BY (CONTINUED)
Wall & Ceiling Paint Color: Sherwin Williams Pussywillow 50%
02
Season 3 | Episode 11 View the full project and shop for products at TamaraDay.com.
Chandelier: Kichler
Fireplace Stone: Daltile® Ambassador™ Random Linear Mosaic in Voyager Black Fireplace Hearth: Daltile® Natural Stone Slab – Black Soapstone (Honed)
Rug: Heartland Beige
16
Williamsburg Lifestyle | April 2021
l i v i n g
r o o m
Rain Cloud Original Art by Karen Dreyer @karendreyerart
Boulder Original Art by Rachel Harris @studiorhad
CONTINUED >
CityLifestyle.com/Williamsburg
17
INSPIRED BY (CONTINUED)
Lady Luck Original Art by Glenna Adkins @glennaart
Chandelier: Kichler Nye 14.75” 6 Light Chandelier
03
Season 3 | Episode 12
More is More Original Art by Katherine Bello @katherinebello.art
View the full project and shop for products at TamaraDay.com. Rug: Solitaire Ice
Wallpaper: Thibaut Wild Silk
18
Williamsburg Lifestyle | April 2021
b e d r o o m
Full-service preventive maintenance & automotive repair by ASE-certified technicians
(757) 253-9433 • AutoClinicLongHill.com 4166 Longhill Road, Williamsburg, VA
INTERIOR DESIGN FURNISHINGS | KITCHENS
Amy Ahearn 757-378-2785 Main 757-561-6592 Mobile amy@decoratingden.com www.amy.decoratingden.com
GET INSPIRED EAT + DRINK SHOP LOCAL City Lifestyle
YOUR DIGITAL DESTINATION FOR LOCAL LIVING
CityLifestyle.com/Williamsburg
19
a working home
with Alyssa Kelley BRINGING DESIGN, FUNCTIONALITY & ORDER TO MULTIPURPOSE SPACES ARTICLE KRISTINE HOJNICKI PHOTOGRAPHY GARI ANN KIA
AS A CORPORATE EVENT PLANNER, ALYSSA KELLEY’S JOB
Homes have become our big empty ball-
WAS TO TAKE IN THE BLANK CANVAS OF AN EMPTY BALL-
rooms and we need to change them so
ROOM AND VISUALIZE ITS POTENTIAL TO DELIVER RESULTS
they’re functional for all of the different
FOR HER CLIENTS. But when in-person events were cancelled and
demands we’re putting on them right now.”
her corporate event planning team was dismantled due to COVID-19, Alyssa decided to take a step back and evaluate her career.
Alyssa works with her clients to overcome a wide range of functionality needs associ-
“I knew it was going to take some time for that industry to settle
ated with multipurpose spaces, offering a
and I didn’t want to sit around and wait. Aside from event planning,
variety of services including full renovations,
home is one of my biggest passions so I decided to take the bull by
functional design and organizational sup-
the horns and become my own boss.”
port. She says the biggest challenge is find-
Like Alyssa, many were forced to adapt to the rapidly changing
ing ways to optimize a space while maintain-
circumstances brought on by the pandemic. For some, it meant
ing fluidity throughout the home, especially
setting up a home office in their formal dining room. For others, it
for those with open concepts.
meant converting the kitchen into a temporary schoolroom. What
“Sometimes it’s hard for people to
were intended to be temporary solutions until life returned to normal
look at a space differently than the way
became increasingly more permanent as 2020 went on, bringing
it’s always been used or the way they’ve
chaos, anxiety and confusion into the homes of Alyssa’s friends,
envisioned it,” she explained. “It’s import-
neighbors and colleagues.
ant to think about the space that you
“Home is a feeling, it’s not just a place, and in the last year,
have nontraditionally because our lives
people have really rediscovered the meaning of home. I started
are anything but traditional right now.
A Working Home because it made me sad to think that people
I work with my clients to help them feel
may not feel as passionately about their own as they could,” she
like the changes they’re making are good
said. “My expertise as an event planner was to know how to take a
decisions. They are hard decisions but
step back and look at what a space can do versus what it’s doing.
nothing is permanent.”
20
Williamsburg Lifestyle | April 2021
CONTINUED >
"Home is a feeling, not just a place, and in the last year, people have really rediscovered the meaning of home."
CityLifestyle.com/Williamsburg
21
A WORKING HOME WITH ALYSSA KELLEY (CONTINUED)
functionality
22
bre ak with tradition
nothing is p e rmane nt
Inventory the needs of the individ-
When looking at a room, con-
The way your home is set up right
uals in your home. Consider how
sider what you want it to do. Take
now may not necessarily reflect
the family moves through and uses
a step back and look at these
your current needs. You’re look-
the home on a daily basis. This
areas beyond their traditional
ing to make something work now
ensures the improvements you
uses. Garages, attics, and for-
during this season of your life.
make are implemented smoothly
mal living and dining areas, can
A room can always be reset in
and are easier to achieve.
all be converted into functional,
the future; it’s why they’re called
non-traditional spaces.
“flex” spaces.
Williamsburg Lifestyle | April 2021
RENOVATIONS. CONVERSIONS.
even walk into a home. If you know you need an office,
CUSTOM DESIGN. ORGANIZATION.
or multiple workspaces, don’t look at a full-open con-
Whether a client is looking to purchase a new home, renovate or convert an existing space, or simply bring
cept plan, especially if you don’t have the budget to build walls or install doors.”
order to the chaos, A Working Home’s goal is to create
Alyssa says one of the biggest mistakes she sees is
a fresh, clean slate for those who live there. Alyssa first
clients allowing unused space to continue to go unused.
prioritizes the functional needs of a client, then devel-
She suggests thinking inventively and nontraditionally
ops organizational methods and design elements to
about the rooms within a home to maximize its potential
support those objectives.
and convert dead space into functional square footage.
“My clients have become so overwhelmed with what
After seeing a Fortune 500 executive taking video
they need to accomplish in their daily lives that the last
calls from her kitchen island, Alyssa suggested renovat-
thing they want to figure out at the end of the day is
ing the formal living room into a study. She used creative
where everything goes. We want to establish a system,
design elements to alter the space, designed a custom
or a routine, that makes upkeep simple and eventually,
desk, and her client ultimately ended up with a home
second nature. I start by asking them what needs to
office she could step into and focus on work.
happen throughout the day within each space, who will use it, how will they use it.”
A working mom of three found herself and her husband simultaneously working from home while educating and
Likewise, Alyssa says new home buyers or renters
caring for their three young children. Alyssa reconfigured
looking at properties should set their priorities before
the bedrooms to meet their needs: bunking the older chil-
stepping foot in a potential home.
dren, setting up a home office in the newly vacant bedroom,
“The most important thing to keep in mind is understanding your family’s needs and goals before you
and converting the master bedroom into a multi-purpose room for the children where they can play and learn. CONTINUED >
WH
"AT
THE END OF THE DAY, 'HOME' IS SUPPOSED TO BE YOUR SAFE HAVEN,
ERE EVERYBODY IN YOUR FAMILY IS COMFORTABLE AND AT EASE."
CityLifestyle.com/Williamsburg
23
A WORKING HOME WITH ALYSSA KELLEY (CONTINUED)
MARKET DEMANDS AND WHAT’S ON TREND. Many of her clients are families, especially those with school-age children who are now living, learning, and playing within the same space every day. To meet their needs, Alyssa identifies the areas where children can best focus and then maximizes the functionality of those areas by creating kid-friendly solutions that make it easy for them move through and maintain the space. “It is important for kids to see what they have and where it goes, making items accessible to them.” Alyssa’s home features a 200 square foot garage conversion, flex space that functions as her home gym, guest room, office, a craft room for her daughter, and during sporting events, it is the man cave. “One of the biggest trends right now is the flex space and getting creative with how we use it.” Alyssa says the two biggest reasons that people hesitate to reach out a professional like her are the cost and the fear of having someone come into their homes and see how they’ve been living. “I want to make people feel comfortable and understand that working with a professional to make your home functional is available, attainable and comes without judgement,” she said. “Do I love doing full renovations and full-blown design? Absolutely! But my goal is to make clients feel at home and leave the heart in it while making it a place that can function 24 hours a day.”
t ips & t r i
cks Less is more. It can be hard to let go of stuff, but people, pets and plants deserve space within your home more than what is currently cluttering it. Clear storage. There are lots of affordable options for clear containers to help when it comes to organizing, especially for kids! Bold use of color or patterns. A bold color or temporary wallpaper can make a statement and bring a pop of color to a room in need of a refresh. Repurpose creatively. Filing cabinets and butcher block tops can be fashioned into desks. Don’t be afraid to repurpose rooms and items within them to meet your needs. Empower positive behaviors. Set yourself up for success by developing a system that is easy to maintain.
24
Williamsburg Lifestyle | April 2021
H O M E
RENOVATE & REFINE
HOME WO R K
WORKING FROM HOME BECAME THE NORM IN 2020, AND FOR MANY, THE HOME OFFICE REMAINS A PRIMARY WORKSPACE. Laura Christian, owner of Laura Design and Co. offers some advice this month on how to turn what may have at one time been a part-time office space into a full-time, stylish and sophisticated work dwelling. “For some, this state of working from home will be permanent. It is a different time we are living in, so we might as well embrace what we can control - our homes. We have the unique opportunity at this time to make our work space our own, and make us truly want to spend time in it,” Laura says.
26
Williamsburg Lifestyle | April 2021
01
LAURA CHRISTIAN OF LAURA DESIGN AND CO. GIVES ADVICE ON CREATING A STYLISH AND FUNCTIONAL HOME OFFICE
ARTICLE STEPHANIE HASBROUCK PHOTOGRAPHY ANGELICA MARIE PHOTOGRAPHY
02
01
02
Choose a color palette. “I like to stick with neutral paint colors as a jumping off point. Then bring in colors through artwork, accessories, window treatments and rugs,” Laura says.
Chose a desk wisely. “Think about your personality and the way you work. Do you need more drawers and storage or do you prefer a more minimal, clutter-free work space? This will make the decision on what type of desk to purchase. In many cases, less is more,” she says.
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CityLifestyle.com/Williamsburg
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RENOVATE & REFINE (CONTINUED)
P E S O N A L
04
05
T O U C H
03
04
03
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Create balance. “Like so many other things in life, design is all about finding balance,” Laura says. “Create a balance between textiles, wood finishes, stone, colors, natural elements, finishes and accessories.”
Williamsburg Lifestyle | April 2021
05
Incorporate art. “Use oversized artwork as a backdrop for those long zoom calls. It will not only look beautiful, but professional as well,” Laura says. “We are big fans of neutral, abstract landscape artwork, especially pieces that have a calming aesthetic to them.”
Make it personal. “Do not forget to include personal touches here and there – family photos, favorite books, etc. They serve as little reminders of the things that bring you joy,” she says.
S H E L V E S W I T H
S T Y L E
Follow Laura’s tips below to style perfectly balanced bookshelves.
+ Start with a clean slate. Begin by emptying everything off of your shelves so that you have a fresh look at them. Consider your room and color palette. Is the cabinetry backing dark, light, or open? This should affect how you select you styling elements … If the cabinetry is dark, you want to select lighter pieces in order to obtain that contrast. Are you wanting to keep it neutral or add bold colors and patterns to your decor? You can organize your items by category prior to placing them on your shelves. Overall, you want to keep a cohesive look throughout the shelves. + Gather varied items. Only use items that you love. You want these things to make you happy when you look at them. I personally like to use baskets, greenery, geometric objects, pottery/vases, books, bookends, jars, artwork, frames, candles and wood trays. I also love incorporating personal items that have a unique value and interest to you. For example, nick-knacks, or souvenirs from past travels, personal photos of a memorable occasion, or collectibles that mean something special to your family. + Ground your shelves. I usually start by placing a set of large baskets or trays on the bottom shelf. This really helps it feel more substantial, weighted, and connected at the base of your shelves. + Style from largest to smallest. The next step is incorporating the large items first and spreading them out over your shelves so they are not right next to each other. Then, fill in the remaining shelves with the smaller items. Here's one of our best tricks: if it feels like something is missing, add some greenery (faux works too!). + Create that necessary depth. You can do this through the use of artwork or trays stacked against the back wall. Make sure items that are similar to each other are not right next to one another. It is all about balance. CityLifestyle.com/Williamsburg
29
DIY ARTICLE HAYLEY HYER
A Chemical-Free Home
DIY Laundry Scent Enhancer If you have ever added those popular scent beads to your load of laundry before, you know how lovely it is to pull your amazingly scented clothes out of the dryer. The funny thing about a product like that is it truly has no purpose other than adding a good smell, but it does add lots of chemicals to your daily life! There's a safer and more beneficial way to make your clothes smell heavenly. Try this DIY scent enhancer with your next load of laundry and put it to the test.
Ingredients 3 parts Epsom Salt + 1 part Baking Soda + Essential Oils
Directions Mix your ingredients together in a jar or canister and scoop about ¼ cup directly into the washer basin before adding the clothes—just like you would with scented beads. Continue with your laundry like normal.
Learn More
For more information on starting a chemical-free household, you can browse online resources such as ChemFreeCom.com or find a social media group to join with likeminded people who have some experience from their own trial and error. If you get overwhelmed, remember that you don't have to get rid of all chemicals in one day. Every swap you make is something to celebrate!
30
Williamsburg Lifestyle | April 2021
FREE ONE HOUR COLOR CONSULT * *Offer applies to your residential painting project of $1,000 or more. Must be presented at time of estimate. Not valid with other offers. Not valid on current estimates or proposals. Available at CertaPro Painters® of Virginia Peninsula. Expires 7/31/20.
WE DELIVER ON OUR PROMISE OF PROFESSIONALISM, CARE AND QUALITY. Contact CertaPro Painters® of Virginia Peninsula today!
757-223-7063 virginiapeninsula.certapro.com Each CertaPro Painters® business is independently owned and operated. Lic# 2705161956
CityLifestyle.com/Williamsburg
31
APRIL
LIFESTYLE CALENDAR
THURSDAYS
10
16
BILLSBURG TRIVIA NIGHTS
JCC HOUSEHOLD CHEMICAL COLLECTION
14TH ANNUAL "BREAST" BALL CHARITY GOLF TOURNAMENT
Join us in the taproom every Thursday
Williamsburg, VA 23188
Colony Dr, Williamsburg, VA 23188
night at 6:30pm for the live version.
Properly dispose of:
Even if you don’t play golf, there are
Grab your friends and family to play
+ Maintenance Products (oils, paints,
plenty of opportunities to volunteer or
some trivia while drinking the coldest
stains, wood sealers, glues etc)
become a sponsor! This tournament
craft beer in Williamsburg. You can
+ Automotive Products (oils & fuels,
occupies all three distinct championship
also come in purchase a beer, and
batteries, car waxes, transmission &
courses at Fords Colony Country Club.
receive a code to login and play from
brake fluids)
Single Player - $175, Foursome - $700,
the comfort of your own couch at your
+ Lawn & Garden Products (weed killers,
Premier Experience with Golf Shoes or
own pace.
pesticides, fertilizers, pool chemicals)
Accessories $1500
+ Cleaning Products (oven cleaners,
8:00am - 6:30pm
3
drain cleaners etc)
HereForTheGirls.org/Golf
WILLIAMSBURG FARMERS MARKET OPENS
light bulbs)
Billsburg Brewery - 2054 Jamestown Rd, Williamsburg, VA 23185
Duke of Gloucester St
Catch the first day of the 2021 Williamsburg Farmers Market from 8:00am - 12:00pm. Free parking on Francis Street (lot P6) on Saturdays from
Fords Colony Country Club - 240 Fords
Warhill High - 4615 Opportunity Way,
+ Miscellaneous Products (chemistry sets, charcoal fluid, fluorescent
17
11
12TH ANNUAL DOG STREET RUN 5K
SECOND SUNDAYS ART & MUSIC FESTIVAL
and $35 tickets
Prince George Street & Henry Street
Support Habitat for Humanity with $20 + Race Day Packet Pickup at the
Duke of Glouster St. Williamsburg, VA
START LINE 6:30 AM – 7:30 AM
Street Garage is open for $1/hour.
Street Fair of over 90 unique artisans,
+ Start Line is on Prince George St.
WilliamsburgFarmersMarket.com
musicians,
between Nassau St. and Henry St.
8:00 a.m. until Noon. Prince George
street
performers
and
food vendors in 4 Blocks along Prince
+ Two Shilling Fun Mile begins at
10
George & N Boundary Streets in down-
7:00 AM at the Finish Line on Duke of
town Williamsburg on the 2nd Sunday
Gloucester St.
GO GREEN MARKET YORKTOWN MARKET DAYS
of each Month (March- December)!
+ 5K Run/Run Walk/Competitive Walk
2ndSundaysWilliamsburg.com
Begins at 7:30 AM
12
24-25
WORD WEAVERS WILLIAMSBURG
PIRATES INVADE YORKTOWN
mental sustainability.
7770 Croaker Rd, Williamsburg, VA 23188
331 Water St, Yorktown VA 23690
Live music, food trucks, special exhib-
5:30pm - 7:30pm
April 24 & 25 - Learn lessons and
itors and educational children's crafts,
Are you a writer who longs for a group
legends from pirates’ lives in the
activities, games.and a variety of envi-
to connect with?
17th & 18th centuries.
ronmentally friendly vendors!
Word Weavers has a tried-and-true
Annual treasure hunt, explore a pirate
Be sure to bring your reusable bags.
formula for sharpening the skills of
encampment, and sing along with
VisitYorktown.org/225/Market-Days
its members, turning out published
sea shanties!
authors who go on to win acclaim and
Purchase a ticket to sail the stormy
awards. If you are a writer who is not
waters of the York River on the Schooner
afraid to critique and be critiqued.
Alliance, with Captain Mayhem
Word-Weavers.com
Virginia.org/Listings/Events/Pirates
Riverwalk Landing
331 Water Street Yorktown, VA 23690
Happy Earth Day! Help us kick off our 2021 Yorktown Market Days Go Green Market to promote environ-
James City County LIbrary,
Riverwalk Landing & Waterman's Museum
InvadeYorktown 32
Williamsburg Lifestyle | April 2021
THINKING OF SELLING?
“We needed the loan closed quickly and everyone on the team made it happen. Thank you!”
With Interest Rates at Historic Lows,
NOW IS THE PERFECT TIME TO PURCHASE YOUR NEW HOME! Please contact us today to find out how much MORE home you qualify for.
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414 MERSHON WAY
Brad Stevenson NMLSR 293018
Pam Catts PENDING
PENDING
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200 FORD COURT
T H E M OT H R EALT Y G ROUP CA N HE LP! GAYE & STEPHEN MOTH
REALTORS 757.389.1040 | GAYEMOTH@SRMFRE.COM 757.876.3673 | STEPHENMOTH@SRMFRE.COM SHAHEEN, RUTH, MARTIN & FONVILLE REAL ESTATE
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NMLSR ID 70731
5 2 3 4 M o n t i c e l l o Ave . , S u i te 1 1 0 www.WilliamsburgHomeLoans.com All first mortgage products are provided by Prosperity Home Mortgage, LLC. (877) 275-1762. Prosperity Home Mortgage, LLC products may not be available in all areas. Not all borrowers will qualify. Licensed by the NJ Department of Banking and Insurance. Licensed by the Delaware State Bank Commissioner. Also licensed in AL, AR, AZ, CO, CT, DC, FL, GA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, VA, WA, WI, WV and WY. NMLS #75164 (NMLS Consumer Access at http://www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org/) ©2019 Prosperity Home Mortgage, LLC. All Rights Reserved. (08/19) MC191139
Williamburgs #1 mobile flooring showroom! Shopping for flooring should be simple, easy and fun!
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We are your true shop at home experts. Choose flooring that fits your taste, your budget, your lifestyle in the comfort of your home. Let us bring the showroom to you 7 days a week!
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757.378.6465 CityLifestyle.com/Williamsburg
33
GIVING BACK ARTICLE ASHLEY CHAVEZ
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR - HOUSING PARTNERSHIPS
PHOTOGRAPHY KELLYN WILSON
B R A N DI E W E I LE R YOU COULD SAY WILLIAMSBURG IS IN HER BLOOD, BRANDIE WEILER WAS BORN AND RAISED HERE. She attended Lafayette High, just like her parents, and has two daughters. She played volleyball from middle school up until just a few years ago in an adult league and coached in a REC league for both of her girls. Brandie loved coaching in her community so much that she coached cheer at Lafayette and then continued to coach cheer at William and Mary. Though she no longer officially coaches, she will still volunteer to coach at W&M when her schedule allows. Brandie joined Housing Partnerships 10 years ago as the Executive Director. This position spoke
and septic systems are all operational. This is all vital work that their
to her heart since it embodies her passion of giv-
clients would not be able to afford without our help. The organiza-
ing back to the community that she has deep roots
tion relies on donations and volunteers to get this work done.
in. Housing Partnerships’ mission is “To repair
Typically, fundraisers bring in the majority of the donations
or replace substandard housing in the City of
for this organization. Their primary fundraiser is the annual PIPE
Williamsburg, James City County, and York County.
(Providing Indoor Plumbing for Everyone) Concert featuring a
Our unique strength is the formation of true part-
Jimmy Buffet tribute band, Parrots of the Caribbean at the W&M
nership between communities, volunteers, and
amphitheater on Lake Matoaka. For the first time in 12 years, the
our neighbors to achieve the goal of safe, warm,
concert had to be canceled in 2020 due to Covid. Serendipitously,
and dry housing.” Their clients primarily consist
the 2020 budget was saved when Housing Partnerships received
of elderly homeowners with an average annual
a donation from a local resident’s estate. Were it not for this leg-
income around $13,000, and of those, one third are
acy gift, the number of people Housing Partnerships could help
disabled. Ms. Weiler voiced how connected she
would have been greatly impacted. Brandie Weiler says, “It’s hard
was to each project when she said, “I put myself in
work, but it is very rewarding. I wouldn’t change it for anything”.
my client’s shoes and think how would I want my parents or grandparents treated.” Taking care of their clients is not easy work. This non-profit serves around 200 households per year conducting emergency repairs, modifying homes for accessibility, and ensuring the plumbing, electric,
34
Williamsburg Lifestyle | April 2021
Visit housingpartnerships.org Also, consider talking with your estate planner about leaving a legacy gift.
Buying and Selling Homes Can be a Real Balancing Act... Another reason to hire Howard Hanna’s top selling team! Steve Van Kirk REALTOR
®
757-291-3332 stevenvankirk@howardhanna.com stevevankirk.howardhanna.com
Holly Rolley REALTOR®
757-345-1466 hollyrolley@howardhanna.com hollyrolley.howardhanna.com
Shannon Courtney Mortgage Loan Officer | NMLS# 988973
804-894-1945
shannon.courtney@townemortgage.us shannoncourtney.townemortgage.us
Steve Van Kirk and Holly Rolley are a brother sister team serving the entire Williamsburg area. Their background in marketing and construction along with their strong negotiating skills have made them consistently top producers year after year. As an experienced lender, Shannon Courtney is available to guide you through the home financing process. Whether you are purchasing your first home, an investment home, refinancing or just need mortgage advice, Shannon Courtney can help.
Towne Mortgage NMLS# 91904. This communication is provided to you for informational purposes only and should not be relied upon by you. Howard Hanna is not a mortgage lender and so you should contact Towne Mortgage directly to learn more about its mortgage products and your eligibility for such products. If your house is already listed with an agent, this is not intended to solicit that listing. This is not a commitment to lend.
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Tell us about your dream home... 757.504.3007 | ben@memorie.com 439 Prince George Street, Williamsburg, Virginia 23185 Ben Munson, Managing Broker - Memorie Group - Powered by Keller Williams