We were particularly inspired by this Richmonders’ DIY star ornaments, crafted using colorful SCRAP RVA paper. | Photo + craft courtesy of @ratsinthecradleart
Decorating for the holidays, but make it locally sustainable. A $20-$30 haul from SCRAP RVA in Northside can inspire dozens of creative ideas while boosting our small biz scene.
A local artist crafted these colorful, room-brightening origami stars with collected paper from SCRAP. Typically, you can find paper and office materials against the store’s far wall, almost directly ahead of the entrance.
Want another SCRAP craft idea? We’ve got plenty, but before we dive right in, let us know if you’re interested.
“Hobbit” door or “treezeebo”? Hot-pink dining room or lime-green bathroom? See if you can spot them all at this multi-million dollar Ashland farmhouse. With 27 acres of rural escape and 10+ colorfully-painted rooms, today’s feature might keep you on your toes.
Seasonal
Another week, another lineup of holiday markets. Plus, Small Business Saturday is this weekend on Nov. 29. Check out this week’s upcoming holiday markets, along with Hardywood’s small business celebration. Stay tuned: More Small Biz Saturday events to come in this week’s newsletters.
Trending
Would you sit right next to a stranger at a restaurant?90% of Gen Z diners would. According to a new Resy study, communal dining is in. Consider this your cue to meet a new friend at one of Richmond’s buzzy new restaurants. (Business Insider)
Film
Get ready to be changed for good — “Wicked: For Good” officially premiered last Friday, Nov. 21, but the pink + green flair doesn’t stop there. Richmond’s Glinda-fied Quirk Hotel is hosting A “Wicked” New Year’s Eve party on Wednesday, Dec. 31. Fly on over to reserve tickets.
Art
When did modern art begin? Well, a new exhibit in London suggests it was earlier than previously thought, with one particular painting creating a whole new potential timeline for the genre. Don’t travel across the pond to find artistic inspiration — see how the VMFA’s new exhibit inspired local students last week. (BBC)
Civic
Our streets should be safe for everyone. Richmond’s Vision Zero initiative works to prevent traffic deaths and serious injuries while promoting safe, healthy, and equitable streets. Residents can track progress, explore public dashboards, and get involved in building a safer community for walkers, bikers, transit users, and drivers.*
Whether you’re a small business looking to grow your team or a large company filling a key role, our Job Board can connect you with engaged, qualified locals who are ready to work. Post your open roles for free + watch the applications roll in.
Read
Be the smartest person in the room by reading 1440, where 4.5 million Americans find their daily, fact-based news fix. It’s free to subscribe.*
The Buy
PSA: Amazon’s Black Friday Week sale is here. With temperatures continuing to drop, we’re stocking up on a few cold weather wardrobe essentials while they’re on sale. These are our top three:
🍂 This pair of ultra-soft wide leg pants are on sale for under $35. We can’t wait to wear them while running errands, lounging, and everything in between.
🍂 Score 30% off this ribbed long sleeve basic tee — perfect for layering under your favorite sweater, vest, or jacket.
🍂 Embrace cozy sophistication with this oversized cable knit sweater that’s marked down to under $28.
The fun doesn’t have to end here. After reading the newsletter, head over to our games page. Games refresh with new challenges every day at 6 a.m. from crossword puzzle to Sudoku to themed word search.
I love a good DIY craft, so today’s artist feature was super fun (and made me want to run to SCRAP RVA). If you’re a fan of the crafty content, send a quick email to let us know, and feel free to share your favorite sustainable scrap projects.