Home + Design

Bringing Early Spring Beauty into the Home

Karen Walker lends her expert advice on simple floral updates that bring early spring indoors. Article by Jennifer Waldera | Photography by Contributing Photographers As winter loosens its grip and Central Virginia begins to hint at warmer days, March offers a natural moment to refresh the home, with no renovation required. One of the simplest and most impactful ways to do that is with seasonal blooms and greenery that reflect what’s happening just outside our doors. Early spring flowers can...

Arts + Culture

A Well-Rounded Getaway

An easy drive leads to standout dining, cozy stays, and history-rich charm. Article by Jennifer Waldera | Photography by Contributing Photographers Whether you’re on the lookout for a quick overnight couples’ getaway or an extended trip with friends or family, Frederick, Maryland, is a town that will have attractions for everyone in the travel group. Just a relatively quick drive up Route 15, this city isn’t far from the Virginia border but offers a plethora of entertainment from downtown...

Home + Design

Framing with Intention

The team at FastFrame shares valuable expertise on how to elevate a room with the right framing. Article by Jennifer Waldera | Photography by Tracy Riffel How can custom framing elevate the design and feel of a room? Custom framing transforms a piece of art into a focal point that reflects the client’s personal aesthetic. By selecting materials that harmonize with the room’s textures and colors, we create a cohesive ambiance. Our frames are designed not just to protect, but to bring a sense...

Home + Design

Impact by Design

Using construction, collaboration, and care to improve lives locally and globally Article by Jennifer Waldera | Photography by Contributing Photographers For nearly three decades, Building Goodness Foundation has quietly reshaped what community support can look like--one project, one partnership, and one carefully considered build at a time. Founded in Charlottesville by a group of local builders, the organization grew from a simple idea: use professional skills in construction, design, and...

Food + Beverage

An Easy, Elevated Green Cocktail

A thoughtful, balanced cocktail from a local bartender that's easy to make at home. Article by Jennifer Waldera | Photography by Contributing Photographers Whether you’re ready to toast to the fact that spring is on the horizon, or you want to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with a leveled-up green cocktail, Micah LeMon of The Alley Light has a fresh-flavored cocktail that’s as easy to make at home as it is to sip at the bar.  Garden Sour Ingredients 1 ¾ oz gin (preferably something...

Home + Design

Staging for Stronger First Impressions

Realtor Grier Murphy shares what sellers need to know about staging. Article by Jennifer Waldera | Photography by Contributing Photographers From your experience in this local market, what’s the biggest difference you see between staged homes and non-staged homes when it comes to buyer interest? Buyers are extremely visual, and a staged home allows them to better understand a space. By seeing how large a room is and how it can be utilized, potential buyers can more easily envision...

Travel

Restorative, Rural, and Remarkable

A refreshing escape in Virginia's Allegheny Highlands Article by Jennifer Waldera | Photography by Contributing Photographers Nestled in Virginia’s Allegheny Highlands, Bath County is the kind of place that invites you to slow your pace, whether that means sinking into mineral-rich springs, wandering forested backroads, meandering through small shops, or lingering over a quiet meal after a day outdoors. Known for its restorative waters and wide-open landscapes, this rural corner of the...

Entertainment

Rooster Walk -- Music and Much More

A Memorial Day weekend festival that blends unforgettable music with intention and heart Article by RW Smith | Photography by Contributing Photographers Imagine a festival that offers all of the bands, vendors, activities, and comforts you’re hoping for—without the long lines, overpriced drinks, or grimy portojohns that can ruin a weekend. Imagine a festival that feels warm and genuine, one that’s thoughtfully organized and intentionally sized so your time, access, and enjoyment come first. A...

Style + Beauty

Sweets Meet Sips

Tim Gearhart's guide to pairing chocolate with wine and spirits Article by Jennifer Waldera | Photography by Jen Fariello Founded in 2001, Gearharts Fine Chocolates grew from Tim Gearhart’s global culinary journey -- Marine Corps cook to Culinary Institute of America–trained pastry chef. While they can easily be enjoyed on their own, they also pair perfectly with wine and spirits. These are Gearhart's suggestions for how to do it. What should people understand first about pairing chocolate...

Arts + Culture

Shaping Glass, Building Community

Inside a hands-on studio making glass art accessible and approachable Article by Jennifer Waldera | Photography by Courtesy of The Glass Palette For more than two decades, The Glass Palette has quietly carved out a colorful, creative niche in Charlottesville rooted in accessibility, experimentation, and a deep love of community. Founded 21 years ago by Maria DiMassimo and eventually her daughter Cara DiMassimo, the studio began with a simple idea and grew into a welcoming space where glass...