A TO SPACE GATHER

When photographer, Jacqui DePas toured The Yellow House, a property in the Forest Hill area of Richmond, VA, the energy of the space called to her She had been looking for better work and home separation and found a space to bring people together

R: A building is a milestone investment for a small business owner. What gave you the confidence to make this decision?

Finding confidence is a constant battle as an entrepreneur I think we juggle from being overly confident to having imposter syndrome I have been looking for an opportunity to open an office/studio in Richmond since moving here in 2018 I have looked from Midlothian to Church Hill trying to find the right space This house was originally meant for my sister to buy and live in (I’m still trying to convince her to move out of DC and come to Richmond ) I went to see this house for her and kept thinking about it When it didn't sell right away, I thought maybe it was waiting for me

R: Why is a physical space important to you? There is a lot to be said about intentionality and thoughtfulness of a physical space. I wanted a space for my office. I wanted a space to invite clients I wanted control over the environment during shoots I wanted to cut back ime to and from client locations I space to invite other business owners art of all of the wants was needing to ce that could serve them all my office was in my home (in what the formal sitting room) right off the Every time I walked by my office I l a twinge of guilt Maybe I should just email maybe that client got back to be I can retouch that photo really quick as at my desk working, my mind was e feel guilty about the piles of laundry the floor of the laundry room….that the does need a walk…maybe I should h instead of just snack…has that ways been that wrinkled? Not only that, I would find myself working at all he day I would be editing while the family was cuddled up watching a movie

R: What types of events will you be hosting in the house?

I am so excited to have a space for artists to showcase their work The first level of The Yellow House will house the gallery that changes with each featured artist We will host happy hours, documentary nights to spark conversation around important topics Ellie Burke will be using The House monthly for her meditation classes We will host networking events, bookclubs, author talks, workshops, classes, board/team meetings I have an insanely talented friend, who I met through SWELL, Wendell Welder, who will be creating an oasis in the backyard. I can't wait to take photos out there and host tea parties and lunches al fresco.

The energy That it has character That it has a past and is still standing That each ownership a new iteration takes place in the same walls that have witnessed World Wars, civil rights, and Kurt Cobain dying I love that this house is filled with light and yet has tons of wall space for art That it is a space that was built with the sole intention of gathering and thoughtful conversation I know this sounds extra, but I also hand pick the vendors that have done work on the House to get it up and running They have got to be good people Everyone has been joyful, kind people.