Meet Justin Ferguson, this week's guest editor for Here.Weekly. By day, he advises clients on how to navigate the purchase or sale of their investment property. By night, he is a WSET Level 3 certified Sommelier and Wine Director at The Underground Kitchen! Justin is committed to bridging the gap between investments and cultural experiences, one client and one glass at a time. As the Multifamily Specialist at Marcus & Millichap's Southern Virginia Office, Justin has a knack for understanding clients personally, strategically transforming their aspirations into tangible results. But, his canvas extends beyond the boardroom. As the Wine Director at The Underground Kitchen in Richmond he doesn't just pour wine, he curates experiences and weaves in stories of culture and history into every glass. From tantalizing pairings to blind-tasting adventures, Justin's passion for wine transcends mere appreciation—it's a celebration of life itself. With Justin, the journey isn't just about achieving goals, it's about savoring every moment along the way.
Take it away, Justin...
Irish Festival at Center of the Universe Brewing Co.
This is a staple for me, with my Irish "Ferguson" heritage. The Irish festival offers a vibrant cultural experience, immersing you in the rich traditions of Ireland through music, dance, and cuisine. From lively performances of traditional Irish music to energetic displays of Irish dancing, the festival atmosphere is infectious and joyful. Plus, it's a fantastic opportunity to sample authentic Irish cuisine, indulge in hearty stews, savory pies, and perhaps even raise a pint of Guinness to celebrate Irish heritage.
Vitals:
Irish Festival / Saturday, March 16th, 1:00 - 8:00 pm, free / Center of the Universe Brewing Co.,11293 Air Park Road, Ashland
GalaxyCon Richmond
A not-to-be-missed event for any sci-fi lovers looking to reconnect with their favorite comics, tv shows, anime, and gaming. You'll experience impressive cosplay, where attendees dress up as their beloved characters, as well as a wide array of merchandise to peruse. GalaxyCon provides an immersive sci-fi experience, making it not just an event, but a community for enthusiasts.
One of my favorite writers and comedians, Wanda Sykes is coming to town! With her unique perspective and razor-sharp wit, Wanda brings a refreshing and hilarious take on life's absurdities. Seeing her perform live is not just entertainment—it's an unforgettable experience that has me laughing long after the show.
Vitals:
Wanda Sykes Presents: Please & Thank You / Saturday, March 16th, 5:00 pm & 7:30 pm, tix range from $39 - $79 / Carpenter Theatre at Dominion Energy Center, 600 E. Grace Street, Richmond
More From Justin…
My wife and I wrote a book called An Ordinary Day; a picture book about two boys who move through a typical day. It follows them at home, school, and through after-school activities. And it highlights how even in the mundane of experiences, Black children operate in a world that consciously and subconsciously promotes messaging about bias and inferiority. The book subtly and tactfully demonstrates experiences with microaggressions and systemic disadvantages. This children’s book is an innovative approach to broaching discussions about racism and structural differences with children – a process that should start for all children early in childhood.
I also just earned my WSET Level 3 certification in wine! This is pivotal for professionals seeking in-depth knowledge and credibility in the wine industry. It requires a rigorous understanding of grape varieties, regions, production methods, and tasting techniques, making it both intellectually demanding and rewarding.
Meet Kristie Ciatteo, this week’s guest editor and owner of White Birch Home Staging. As a real estate home stager, Kristie helps sellers pave the way for success. With a passion for creating welcoming, approachable spaces, she works to ensure each property captivates potential buyers from the moment they step through the door.
In her downtime, you’ll more than likely catch Kristie enjoying auntie life, cuddling up with her beloved dog on the couch, trying a new local restaurant with her husband, or striving to finally hit 13mph on the Orange Theory treadmill.
Take it away, Kristie...
Richmond Home + Garden Show
For many of us, spring sparks home improvement plans. Whether you’re looking to renew an area to enjoy for years to come or making strategic updates to prepare your home for sale, you won’t want to miss the Richmond Home + Garden Show. The event offers a valuable array of 250+ exhibitors all in one location. It’s a great opportunity to browse the latest trends plus receive in person advice.
My business White Birch Home Staging is honored to be part of this year’s show. I invite you to grab a coffee and stop by Booth 1110 for a warm hello!
Vitals: Richmond Home + Garden Show / Friday, March 1 - Sunday, March 3, 10:00 am - 7:00 pm (5:00 pm on Sunday) / Richmond Raceway Complex, 600 E Laburnum Ave
Heart A Horse
If you’re not familiar with the impactful work Virginia Equine Welfare Society (VEWS) is doing for horses in need, allow me to welcome you into their rescue ring! VEWS is an all-volunteer nonprofit equine rescue in Hanover, VA. VEWS provides safe housing, medical and rehab services to abused, neglected and other at-risk horses and ultimately places them into loving forever homes. As a longtime volunteer and previous Board member, I find my time with these magnificent souls immensely rewarding.
Get to know the herd and learn more about the passionate dedication behind the organization by visiting their website.
One of my favorite annual traditions is attending Historic Garden Week with my mom. Presented by the Garden Club of Virginia, this beloved spring event offers inspiring and unique tours of private residences, gardens and historic sites throughout Virginia. Over 1,000 floral arrangements beautifully created by local garden club members are featured on the tours and are nothing short of spectacular. Event proceeds fund the restoration and preservation of Virginia’s historic public gardens and provide graduate level research fellowships.
Tickets are available online now. Hope to see you on a tour around RVA!
Kristie is the heart behind her small boutique business White Birch Home Staging. Rooted in a simple but effective philosophy of ‘elevating the everyday,’ Kristie partners with realtors and home sellers to successfully present their properties for sale. With a focus on intentional design and details, she works to bring out the best in every property, helping clients achieve their selling goals with finesse.
In her words: “There’s a valuable distinction between how we live in our home and how we strategically and sucessfully market our home for sale. Every home is unique, and presentation is key. A thoughtfully staged home can generate valuable connections with potential buyers and in turn help sellers earn higher quality offers.”
Meet our guest editor Carlos Samuels for a special Monday issue of Here! Carlos is a professional photographer, owner of FlashoverVisions, and firefighter. From a teenage hobby of capturing his community with disposable cameras, Carlos' passion blossomed, eventually leading to the founding of FlashoverVisions. After facing personal struggles, he found comfort in photography, focusing particularly on his native Richmond landscapes. Carlos has since shared his love for landscape photography far and wide around the country. While his following has grown, Carlos always makes sure to save time for volunteering at local schools, providing professional headshots during Teacher Appreciation Week and class photos across all grade levels. The yoga and wellness community within Richmond – including Shanna Thornton, BareSoul Yoga, The Well Collective, and Ashley Williams – have also served as a source of inspiration for Carlos as he regularly documents their practices. When he's not behind the lens, you can find Carlos serving our community as a Richmond City Firefighter and a mentor with Communities in Schools for Richmond Public Schools.
Take it away, Carlos...
Race in Richmond at Main St. Station
The Race in Richmond exhibit is not to be missed. Initially planted at The Well Collective, the exhibit is now LIVE at Main Street Station, from February 16, 2024 to March 11, 2024. Race in Richmond will have a Community Night on Tuesday, February 27th, from 5:00 to 8:00 pm. The exhibit displays one-of-a-kind art, interactive experiences, and in-depth photography. You’ll be given an opportunity to visualize the reality of race and its role in Richmond.
As a landscape photographer, exploring public parks -- from neighborhood parks to state parks -- brings me so much joy. From Virginia State Parks (like High Bridge Trail, Twin Lakes, and Natural Bridge) to James River Park System (Belle Isle, Pony Pasture, and Huguenot Flatwater), you'll find endless opportunities for beauty, recreation, and community engagement. Here in Richmond, I use the park systems to experience nature, wildlife, peace, and it also serves as a therapeutic reset where I can express myself in nature photography and poetry.
Being a live music lover, Legacy Band is my local favorite. They perform at a variety of different venues throughout the Richmond area. I personally love hearing them perform outdoors at Dogwood Dell in the warmer months! Up next, Legacy Band will be at Vagabond on Saturday, March 9 at 5:30 pm; be sure to check them out.
FlashoverVisions began as an escape from reality and life for Carlos. Behind the lens, life stood still, fears vanished, and trying to find himself had begun.
"I don’t have all the expensive lenses, the expensive camera body, expensive lighting, studio access, etc.. So I have to work hard; just to get the right shot, use what I have, catch the right angle; just to capture the right moment," says Carlos. "Whether voluntary or commission. I’ve been blessed with so many once in a lifetime opportunities with this camera. It’s not even believable to me sometimes."
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