8ae54ec3cda1407da1c23a7c131fcec3.png

5ceb2e2624f44a2e964f9b32f1e913e3.png

e1e440167b2342b59ce51a05adb275df.png

625e7b1a65f94549adac79825be65dd1.png

abffa72787654a87ab7621ae981fa2f5.png

35216853d81b4e6698c7d8cef26a1164.png

6a702063722648e9beeda6212d3b6845.png

35f76f1aa7814b709932386b63c6abbf.png

fd87a7f0390c47bb9826da1ccf9a3480.png

62749046f1e94e949f83ff128261659e.png

742970758da84f9b849711e554a57325.png

e6748e9dc6df477d96d86acaa7a7c26b.png

September 16th, 2023 was a very special day. The much-anticipated Florence Neal Cooper Smith Sickle Cell Anemia 5K Fundraising Walk took place at Dorey Park, Henrico County, Virginia. It's a beautiful location known for its variety of activities, scenic walking trails and ponds. This event was not just a walk; it's a movement against Sickle Cell Anemia, a disease that affects thousands across the country and millions globally.
&nbsp;
Named in honor of Florence Neal Cooper Smith, a pioneering advocate for Sickle Cell Anemia awareness, this event aims to keep her life's work alive. Smith&rsquo;s tireless work in the field of health, particularly her dedication towards improving the lives of those living with Sickle Cell Anemia, has left an indelible mark. This walk is a tribute to her and the cause she dedicated her life to.
&nbsp;
As participants laced up their shoes and took to the trails of Dorey Park, they not only walked for fitness but also for a cause. Each step taken was a stride towards a future free from the pain and hardship caused by Sickle Cell Anemia. The 5K walk aimed to raise funds that will be directed towards research, supporting those who live with the disease, and most importantly, increasing awareness about the same.
&nbsp;
The Florence Neal Cooper Smith Sickle Cell Anemia 5K is more than just an event; it's a beacon of hope for those affected by the disease. It's a platform that brings together individuals, families, and communities to join hands in the fight against Sickle Cell Anemia. In partnership with the Virginia Commonwealth University MCV Foundation, this event is sponsored and hosted by the Richmond FACTS Committee (Finding a Cure Together 4 Sickle Cell) and the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority.
&nbsp;
This years event will be held on Saturday, September 21st, 2024. This event is open to all, whether you are a seasoned athlete, a casual walker, or someone directly affected by the disease. The 5K walk encourages community participation, symbolizing the collective effort required to fight against Sickle Cell Anemia. As board members prepare for this monumental event, the air is filled with anticipation and a sense of purpose. It's not just a date on the calendar; it's a day dedicated to change, hope, and unity. So, mark your calendars and join us as we walk towards a brighter, healthier future at the Florence Neal Cooper Smith Sickle Cell 5k Fundraising Walk!

Florence Neal Cooper Smith Sickle Cell 5K

Eden Village of Richmond is an affordable housing initiative aimed at providing permanent housing solutions for the homeless in the greater Richmond metropolitan area. This community-focused project offers tiny homes and supportive services to help residents achieve stability and self-sufficiency. The goal is to create a safe and supportive environment where individuals can rebuild their lives and regain their independence.
&nbsp;
The Eden Village model typically features amenities such as shared community spaces, access to healthcare, job training programs, and other resources designed to assist residents in their transition out of homelessness. This model not only provides shelter but also fosters a sense of community and belonging, which is crucial for long-term success.
&nbsp;
Eden Village of Richmond will be designed to provide comprehensive support and a stable living environment for the homeless. Here are some specific details about the program:
&nbsp;
Housing Model
Tiny Homes: The village consists of individual tiny homes that provide residents with private living spaces. These homes are designed to be affordable, sustainable, and easy to maintain.
Community Spaces: Common areas are available for socializing, community activities, and support services, fostering a sense of community among residents.
&nbsp;
Support Services
Healthcare: Access to medical care is provided to address both physical and mental health needs.
Job Training and Employment Services: Programs are available to help residents gain skills, find employment, and achieve financial independence.
Case Management: Personalized support from case managers helps residents navigate various challenges and connect with necessary resources.
&nbsp;
Proven Success
Stability: The model has shown success in providing long-term stability for residents by addressing the root causes of homelessness.
Community Integration: By fostering a supportive community environment, residents are more likely to thrive and reintegrate into society.
Replication: Eden Village is based on a model that has been successfully implemented in other locations, demonstrating its effectiveness in different communities.
&nbsp;
Getting Involved
Volunteering: Opportunities are available for individuals who want to contribute their time and skills to support residents and the community.
Donations: Financial contributions help sustain the village and expand its services.
Partnerships: Collaborations with local organizations, businesses, and government agencies enhance the resources and support available to residents.
&nbsp;
For more information or to get involved, you can visit the <a href="https://edenvillageusa.org/richmond-va/">Eden Village of Richmond website</a> or contact Cathy Ritter and her team directly.
<hr><hr><hr><hr><hr><hr><hr>
&nbsp;
<hr>
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
&nbsp;
<hr><hr><hr>
Cathy Ritter, the determined founder of Eden Village, is a woman who believes in the power of second chances. She has devoted her life to ensuring that the most vulnerable members of society have access to the basic human right of shelter. But her vision extends beyond just providing a place to stay. She aims to create a community where individuals can feel accepted, supported, and encouraged to rebuild their lives.
&nbsp;
The Eden Village of Richmond is more than just a housing project; it is a beacon of hope, shining its light in one of the darkest corners of society. It is an example of what can be achieved when we choose not to ignore the plight of the less fortunate, but to extend a helping hand. It is a reminder that everyone deserves a second chance, a shot at redemption, and the opportunity to live a life of dignity. The work of Cathy Ritter and the Eden Village community is an inspirational story that needs to be told and celebrated, for it is in these acts of kindness and compassion that we find the true essence of humanity.
&nbsp;

The Eden Village of Richmond: A Beacon of Hope

b461e08153f84f1da29c9815fe692074.png

30867fd992954ab994132bb7a210d738.png

657ce56dbc954dbb825d9c34d6c5f001.png

9f44b7440bcf45b5a197968ee73b2934.png

dc41b5ddd1234e8bafc0d890c81a1a63.png

69bc43223df745db9f55bb4029f28eb5.png

28df8f6050304bcb964106dc05ccf581.png

bb650d16729e4e9a8c4ce3ad23a2a840.png

3772eee4b95b476cb3655c08bb4b3ced.png

1c90908ad253452fafe1773fbf3388b6.png

7da845edd6fc48708285702e42dfd23e.png

2fa7801267034f81af9a334609f56f21.png

07c8eef2736842639687adeb01756fb0.png

49dcd3c52fbb437684590d78f524de27.png

12f4d363935349fd8bf8e3746d0e4ba3.png

987a9e8ea8a144318180cc8a26fd662c.png

56c701967df54ce1bb0969e32d606f73.png

e6d53e807ac74bc082400895ddd82580.png

0485ba97ad5748b180bd45606299d8b2.png

66bfbac1248b4c39b749411abd920d27.png

030a4266f10e46a8b1d818930dc5881b.png

36b417a08152456da89052b3ea4302c9.png

cdc6b5f9105f4dd9b7a5dc2af30feecc.png

2cf7e7b2e8f44e97b8326c33c4e84ae8.png

60c575a93ac249f3bf5ff1bf89a8f4f9.png

fb0433caabf8444492fbc70b837efe66.png

f09cb826e4ad4cdc91856f770c195e75.png

b81330c2fdf94716a38cbe65cd07018c.png

8a07ee2aad6f43bdbe86213c55e66375.png

99d58e0d99a9482698193c523a943eb2.png

471f27d5c4c64c25b226e184cb91a5c9.png

f97d8b5634e2420285482dfe833e01bf.png

Picture a beautiful Spring Saturday afternoon, April 6th, 2024 from 12:00 - 5:00pm, to be exact, on the southside of the James River in Richmond, Virginia. The Stony Point Fashion Park Artisan Market offered it's space to local artisans, making it a vibrant hub of creativity, craftsmanship and community spirit.
&nbsp;
The market, situated amidst the elegant setting of Stony Point Fashion Park, is a treasure trove for the discerning shopper, art lover and anyone with an appreciation for handmade goods. As you approach the venue, you are greeted by a showcase of local artisanal talent. From jewelry, bespoke clothing and one-of-a-kind hand-made crafts, the market is a testament to the creative spirit of the Richmond community. Each craft tells a story, with artisans eager to share the passion and dedication behind their creations.
&nbsp;
I especially loved these 3 Artisans:
&nbsp;
- <a href="https://www.spacegodclothing.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">SPACEGOD Clothing</a> is a lifestyle retailer dedicated to inspiring customers through a unique combination of product, creativity and cultural understanding.
&nbsp;
- LaHair Cards - LaHair Cards makes cards and other framable art using African American hair placed on the cutest African American figures. Check them out here: <a title="LaHair Cards" href="https://www.facebook.com/LaHairCards">https://www.facebook.com/LaHairCards</a>
&nbsp;
- <a href="https://handmadegcfactory.com/">Handmade Greeting Card Factory</a> - Their cards are so sweet and crocheted flowers are simply adorable!
&nbsp;
The Stony Point Fashion Park Artisan Market is not just a place to purchase unique, high-quality items, the Artisan Market creates an opportunity to meet the makers behind the products. You can feel the heart and soul poured into each product as you talk to the artisans, making every purchase feel personal and special.
&nbsp;
The Stony Point Fashion Park Artisan Market is a celebration of the local community and its creative spirit. It's a place where you can spend a delightful day browsing, shopping, eating, and soaking up the vibrant atmosphere. More than just a shopping experience, it's a chance to enjoy the best of what Richmond has to offer while supporting local artisans and small businesses. A day at the market is sure to leave you with a full shopping bag and a heart full of unforgettable memories.
&nbsp;
Stony Point Fashion Park is always a pet-friendly environment. You can't beat that!

A Day at Stony Point Fashion Park Artisan Market

ecfd9a3c0fb34216bdd56ff9292809d7.png

d5a135e2b41c47829f9c6145c0e8bcc2.png

aaa00bca3474468ba5827699d9f72db9.png

505e554d6711487ea0138c39891a8453.png

d9bae0de5bc2419595ee60931f9d0413.png

a09793b3c397462ab812ef29486b1c04.png

e963df3c60aa48678994a1c54a637eef.png

8a240918cd664866b9bd92b9f851f868.png

2bc7d712afbd4120ba701874307f8cdc.png

e76654771c8843649d9d9cac3453875d.png

c2f196e0b017495cbca0408571d989dd.png

94242790d2fd4609b6b273b3301f2ad6.png

6c6b63cfc0f74857bf7f1da5ec649bb4.png

6b9d1ef9be724982981fcad334ff2f80.png

Congrats to the couples who for this Valentine's Day, dared to try something unique, fun, and utterly adorable! Imagine being at Stony Point Fashion Park, surrounded by laughter filling the air, a paintbrush in hand, and a playful little goats at your feet. This is the delightful scene at the Valentine's Paint Night with Goats, an event hosted by the ever-innovative Goat Yoga RVA.
&nbsp;
This event isn't just about painting; it's about creating memories, bonding, and doing something a little out of the ordinary with your loved ones. Whether you're an expert artist or a complete novice, the friendly team at Goat Yoga RVA will guide you through the process, ensuring that you leave with a beautiful, self-made piece of art and a heart full of joy.
&nbsp;
But what's the role of the goats, you ask? These adorable creatures add an element of fun and relaxation to the evening. Known for their therapeutic effects, the goats will roam around, nudging you for a pat or a cuddle, or perhaps just to give you some artistic inspiration. They're friendly, gentle, and love human interaction, making them the perfect companions for this creative night out.
&nbsp;
Stony Point Fashion Park offers an ideal setting for this event, with its beautiful indoor and outdoor spaces, wide array of shopping and dining options, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. It's the perfect place to continue your Valentine's Day celebrations once you've finished painting.
&nbsp;
Events like these occur year around. So next time you're looking for a fun outing, why not skip the traditional dinner and movie and try something completely different? Grab a paintbrush, pet a goat, and create some unforgettable memories. For more information, visit the Goat Yoga RVA website (<a href="https://goatyogarva.com/">https://goatyogarva.com/</a>). Happy painting!

Valentine's Paint Night with Goats Photos!

A Unique Valentine's Experience: Paint Night with Goats at Stony Point Fashion Park

e45eb233465b4c70add43c93069b2db2.png

7377082c397546efaccfa9b11379d6f5.png

fcf0bcd589614d16bfc5070cafe23f42.png

59d9498b0dd44299ae8451704823ecd1.png

1332b28982b34dafb4367c7c4534a0c7.png

a016feffdca94934ab8b18f38bc12065.png

b19a0f20e6fa4ff1ba90a7c455e5669b.png

dcb8efdfeab54d4c826786f865d359f9.png

c2fc6aa8e4d54267b7c6bf583a8b4045.png

bdb8f9dbacec440896a3284abe9b04ab.png

13cc7afeeece4492ac7d96ea4b433709.png

c3bf57affb1243e28e987d998a703b6f.png

As the clock struck noon on the last day of the year, a cacophony of laughter and joy provided through music, ice-skating, face-painting, and balloon art filled the air at Stony Point Fashion Park in Richmond, Virginia. The occasion? The Bubbles To Baubles Event: A "Noon Years Eve" celebration. This unique celebration, designed specifically for kids, was a truly innovative concept that allowed the little ones to partake in New Year's festivities, a tradition usually reserved for adults.
&nbsp;
The event was a festive spectacle of colors, sounds, and smiles. With balloon art in every color of the rainbow and the delightful giggles of children, Stony Point Fashion Park came alive just like it had in prior years. The young participants were overjoyed to be part of the countdown, eagerly anticipating the arrival of the new year at midday instead of midnight. This allowed them to experience the excitement and joy of a New Year's celebration, a concept that was both awesome and heartwarming.
&nbsp;
Adding to the atmosphere was the music by DJ Rodney S. His upbeat tunes and lively rhythms kept the energy high and the kids dancing. The event was a perfect blend of fun and festivity, allowing the young ones to create beautiful memories and usher in the new year with joy and laughter.
&nbsp;
A special feature of the event was the face painting artist, who transformed the children&rsquo;s faces into vibrant works of art. This added an extra layer of fun and excitement to the event, with each child eager to show off their unique designs. A balloon artist was also present, creating intricate balloon animals and shapes that added to the overall festive atmosphere.
&nbsp;
The event was beautifully captured by Self &amp; Soul Photography. Through their lens, they managed to encapsulate the essence of the event - the joy, the excitement, the anticipation, and the sheer happiness that was evident on each child's face. These photos serve as a beautiful memento of the event, a reminder of a day filled with fun, laughter, and a unique celebration of the new year.
&nbsp;
The Bubbles To Baubles Event at Stony Point Fashion Park was a testament to the magic of creative thinking. By shifting the traditional New Year's celebration to a time more suited for kids, the event not only included them in the festivities but also created an unforgettable experience for them. As we move forward into the new year, this event stands as a heartwarming reminder of the joy of inclusivity and the magic of childhood.

A New Year Celebration for Kids: Bubbles To Baubles Event at Stony Point Fashion Park

Natalie of Self and Soul Photography took care of me from the beginning to the end. She made the process convenient and assisted in coordinating a makeup artist prior to the shoot. She is very patient and knows how to capture the best. Try her for sure. You won't be disappointed.

Pamela, HR Professional

Oh my gosh! My photo session with Natalie - Self & Soul Photography was so awesome! I felt like a super model. She is knowledgeable, professional and so supportive. I felt so comfortable. I could really see how much she loves her work and how important it was to her that I was happy....which I am. My photos are beautiful! Such great quality. Thank you Natalie, Self & Soul Photography!

Sonya, Licensed Therapist

Latorrus Activewear would like to Thank Natalie of Self & Soul Photography for a great job capturing the essence of Latorrus Activewear at a golf tournament we support. Working with Natalie was a good experience. We look forward to working with her at the next event. We Thank You!! "Latorrus: It Starts From Within!" www.latorrus.com

Latorrus Activewear Owner

I had an A+ experience during my recent head shot session with Self & Soul Photography! Natalie is a talented professional. She created a comfortable and relaxed environment that resulted in a great session and quality pictures! I would not change anything and am looking forward to my next experience!

Kemal, Consultant

Natalie photographs every one of our in-center events here at Stony Point Fashion Park, and we wouldn’t have it any other way. Our events can get pretty busy, but she continuously (and flawlessly) captures the joyous connections and experiences of each event attendee and vendor. Her perspective and attention to detail are everything you could want out of a photographer, for any occasion. I personally plan each of our events, so it takes a huge weight off my shoulders knowing she is present, capturing every perspective of how the event not only looked, but felt.

Alexis, Marketing Director

These photos look AMAZING and are EXACTLY what I was looking for! Thank you so, so much!

Ernisha, President of VA Black Chamber of Commerce

Default

Professional & Personal Head Shots

Outstanding & Notable Event (4 Hour Event)

SpotMyPhotos - Instant Photo Delivery

Elegant & Exquisite Event (3 Hour Event)

Exhilarating & Exceptional Event (1 Hour Event)

Micro Wedding Capture

The Focal Essentials All You Need Plan lets you create a beautiful business website with the power of AI. Create Packages, Pricing pages and Blogs. Make booking easy for your client with Focal's Booking System. 5TB of Gallery Storage.