Best Tips for Nesting at Home

Written by: Nestiny Realty

Sometimes, due to weather incidents, sickness or other uncontrollable events it's simply best to nestle in and stay at home. We know this can be hard but we've compiled some tips that can make your time at home feel like an impromptu stay-cation.😉🍹

No Boredom Allowed

• Start (and finish) that book you bought last month.

• Get artsy — grab some pencils and paper and let your imagination go wild, try your hand at a watercolor painting or color a soothing picture in a grown-up coloring book.

• Dot-to-dots aren't just for kids!

• Sharpen your pencils and play a few rounds of Sudoku 🔢 or challenge yourself to a good ole crossword puzzle (bonus: they can be found in many newspapers and magazines).

• Break out your board games.

• Get crafty — make some cute vinyl designs with your Cricut or try out jewelry making. It's also never too late to learn how to knit, especially a cute blanket for your friend's new baby.

• Bake some delicious cookies 🍪 or muffins or try out a new recipe for dinner.

• Make s'mores over your wood-burning fireplace. 🔥

• Attempt homemade pizza and pair it with a classic movie.

• Turn your house into a spa — take a relaxing bath with fuzzing bath bombs 🛀, give yourself an at-home manicure and pedicure complete with a fun new color 💅 and apply a face mask. For extra relaxation, sip on your beverage of choice.

• Find a new show on Netflix (or favorite streaming service) and binge-watch all of the seasons.

• Revamp all of your social media profiles.

• Find your new favorite comedian. 😂

• Create a vision board with old magazines.

• Try a new podcast.

• Dust off those puzzles.

• Tour these 500+ museums from the comfort of your couch.

Get productive!

• Roll up your sleeves and start decluttering your nest (for inspiration check out 32 Ways to Instantly Declutter Your Home and 7 Modern Apps to Organize and Declutter Your Home).

• Try out meal planning and decide on your menu for the next month.

• Get a jump start on Christmas gift ideas and maybe even do some online shopping for deals. 🎄✅

• Reorganize your nest with Nestiny's Feng Shui Guide for a Harmonious Home.

• Do a deep clean and pay extra attention to spaces in your home that you usually skip.

• Go through all of the pictures on your smart device and organize/print them.

• Take the time to boost your home's curb appeal to prepare your house to sell.

Take it Outdoors

• Paint your front door a new color.

• Start an herb garden. 🌱

• Plant some seasonal flowers.

• Give your mailbox a facelift with fresh paint and numbers. 📫

• Liven up your porch with some new decor (thanks, Amazon).

• Set up a picnic in your backyard.

Nest Turned Workplace

In the case of an event that keeps you from physically going into the office, it's a great option to be able to work from home. Here are five tips for when your nest becomes your workplace. 🏠

1. Dedicate a "space" that you will be doing the majority of your work. This could be a desk in your office, a kitchen table or even your back patio in nice weather — basically wherever you will be the most productive.

2. Be proactive and set up your space with everything you will need to do your job (laptop, cell phone, planner, pens/pencils, etc.)

3. A perk from working at home is that it can be done in your PJ's BUT grab a cup of coffee and be ready to start your day before signing on. ☕️

4. While multitasking on things around the house and working may seem like a good idea it can majorly decrease your productivity. Instead, decide when your lunch hour will be and save the laundry for then.

5. Make sure to take a few breaks throughout the day to reset and refocus just like you would do when at the office. May we suggest a five-minute power nap on your sofa 😴 or a short walk to get some air? 👏

It's hard not to go stir crazy when you have to spend extended periods of time at home. But as you can see there are many fun, creative and productive things to keep you busy as a bee — even when you're homebound. So grab a yummy drink, settle into your nest and try something new!

Want more advice about all things home — including home buying or selling advice? Nestiny is a great place for homebuyer education and to help you gauge how ready you are to buy a home. Journey Homeward allows you to enter all your wants and needs while the True Affordability Tool will break down your budget, showing what you can comfortably afford. You will also receive a Ready Report that will give you a vital head start in the home buying journey, saving you valuable time and money.

Support RVA Restaurants

Special Announcement

I’ve been a part of the restaurant industry in RVA for a majority of my life. Even now, as a real estate agent, I still work at Cafe Rustika as a server/bartender. Our food and beverage industry has done amazing things for the progression of our city. It has given us amazing food, places to congregate with friends and family, a setting to meet with clients, places to wallow in our every day worries, bartenders and waitstaff who have worked long hours and have fine tuned their service abilities and knowledge, and most importantly has put us on the map as a desirable city to live, work and visit, creating jobs and commerce here.

There was a time, I was so thankful I worked in a restaurant because it was the only meal I got that day. I have had restaurants bring new friends into my life and as well as given me lifelong acquaintances. I have a large amount of friends who own restaurants here in RVA which include Lulabelle’s Cafe, Don’t Look Back, Nota Bene, ZZQ, Urban Hang Suite, Nomad’s, Kuba Kuba, Longoven, Cask Cafe, Gus’, Rosie’s, Penny Lane Pub, all of Kendra Murden’s Restaurants (Roosevelt, Laura Lee’s, Garnett’s Cafe), Cobra Cabana and Metzger/Brenner Pass to name a few. The point is, I always believe in RVA, in our communities, and honestly, in my friends. I know it is a difficult time for them and their investments, their livelihoods, and their contributions to our great city.

So, although some of us are struggling right now, I ask that those who can spare what they can to please contribute to the Richmond Restaurant Relief Fund. We all do what we can, if you don’t want to help these folks out and you’d rather donate your funds, time or items elsewhere, I encourage you to do so. We don’t really know how long this is going to last just yet, and I’d like to know that our ability to unite and help others with kindness and compassion is still present in RVA.

If anyone else would like to add an additional medium for donations, please feel free to reach out to me by texting (804.571.1727) or emailing me: joann@ladyjrva.com. As we all break bread, let’s give some too.

Working from Home: PJs Aside, Some Helpful Tips

“Commodo cursus magna, vel scelerisque nisl consectetur et. Donec id elit non mi porta gravida at eget metus.”

— Pablo

Nothin's gonna break my stride, nothing's gonna slow me down...

Working from home is not for the weak. I have to do it on a daily basis and it takes structure and discipline to manage your time effectively. I know some of you are thrilled to be working at home during this time but are you prepared to be distracted? To sit for long periods of time? To eat everything in the house?? Start with a plan. Here is an example of some helpful tips.

1. SPACE. Whether it’s your home office or on the patio, find an area with the least amount of distractions and by NO MEANS do it where there is a television present. You will get sucked into a “Love is Blind” abyss. I tend to do a one hour show during my lunch break, right now being a rotation of This is Us, Curb Your Enthusiasm, Good Girls, and Outlander (don’t judge).

2. GET UP. This is the hardest challenge I have daily. Once I get in the zone, I will unwittingly sit for hours on end. So I decided to implement a new routine. Every hour, I get up, and do a ten to fifteen minute workout or I get more coffee or I do a chore.

3. GET DRESSED. I know it sounds dumb since you finally get to test out the durability of your pajama pants, but getting dressed puts you in the mindset that you are going to get something accomplished today, at least put pants on!

4. FRIENDS DON’T LET FRIENDS get off track. I do this. I like to text on my computer, which in all fairness is part of my job, but when the MEMES begin, the work ends. Isn’t it nice to finally get to catch up with friends without having to be on the clock. I get it, I miss them too, but keep it to a minimum and no matter if they have golf clubs or Prosecco on hand, just say, “Let’s see where I’m at in a few hours.”

5. SCHEDULE APPROPRIATELY. We always have to be aware that during this time, things will come up and we can’t always stay on task. Allow yourself a reasonable schedule for all the things you have to get done during the work day. I have a tendency to say, “Ok, from 10-noon I’ll be working on this.” What usually happens is I’m working on it for six hours. Keep track of your time.

6. CHECK IN. Even though I’m an independent contractor, I really enjoy checking in with my co-workers, just to talk about what everyone is up to and to keep morale going. It keeps your head in the game. Take this time to connect with your clients. You have time to see how they are doing or to touch base to see if they need anything. This is a grand use of this time.

7. GO OUTSIDE. Take yourself outside for a few minutes. Fresh air refreshes you and so does direct sunlight. You’ll tend to get cabin fever if your only solo time is in a room with four walls.

8. CHILDREN. I don’t have this issue, but a lot of you do especially right now with everything being shut down. Make sure you have that conversation with your kids. A neat trick I learned was to make a door hanger for when and when they shouldn’t disturb you. Here’s a better idea — get THEM to make it for you! Crafts, check. No Molestar, check. Do make time for them though. How wonderful that family time isn’t cramped into just at the end of the day.

9. SNACK. I will say, working from home, makes you eat more. Be smart and healthy about your snacking during the day. Pre-make some little snack packs and get the fam create their own “delivery service”.

10. GO SOMEWHERE. Go on a walk, go to the store, go to the bank, doesn’t matter. It’ll give you a chance to let your mind rest and a short time of decompressing before getting back to it.

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LADY J’S HOME OFFICE WORKOUT PLAN

So here’s some added bonus I wanted to share with you. I do two things to help pass along my day of working from home. Sometimes, I set an alarm to every hour, to make me get up and do:

• 100 Jumping Jacks

• 15 Pushups (I’m getting there people)

• 25 Crunches

It’s a great simple thing you can do to get your heart pumping and out of your chair. The second thing I’m going to start implementing is 52 Card Work Out.

Get a deck of Cards. Divide them into five piles with one pile obviously will have 12 cards instead. Add the jokers for additional fun. Every hour take one pile and begin by flipping the first one. Whatever that card is, is a set of exercise. For instance, 2 of Hearts I will dedicate to push ups (cause I hate doing them!), the next card is 7 of Spades, I’ll now do 7 burpees. I’m sure this is on the internet as well. You can also divide up your exercises by suit as well, ie. Spades = squats. Remember Jacks, Queens, Kings, and Aces = 10. Good luck and have fun! When the CV is gone, you’ll be thanking the gym membership fee I just saved you, oh and you’re welcome for the toned abs.

A Very Wise Choice

Written by: Jo Ann Breaux | Photos by: Jo Ann Breaux

Without knowing what the new year was to bring—a new adorned ring finger for one—it was serendipitous that I would be talking to business owner Noelle Parent. She is the owner of two distinct local businesses here in Richmond. the bridal consignment shop, Blue Sage Bridal and Gifted RVA, which sells beautifully customizable gift sets consisting of locally made products. Her shop sits prettily on E. Main Street and a welcome addition to the downtown area. Downtown has always been this weird desolate place after 5pm. I feel Broad Street in particular is just stale. Boy that bus track was such a good idea! Even in the 80s there was more ambling crowds, think 6th Street Market. I do love seeing businesses like Noelle’s beginning to adorn the streets in and around the area. Now that Comfort is gone, Broad street fortunately still has gems like Steady Sounds, Black Iris Gallery, Charm School, and Little Nomad, but that strip along Upper Franklin and Main, business seems scarce. It just always seems like limbo, it looks like things are changing down there, but you can’t quite tell yet. Noelle herself is surprised at the foot traffic she gets and although she is by appointment only, it is a still nice to have passerby’s peep in . Can you remember the last time, other than First Friday, you took a walk downtown? We both agreed that we would like to see more contribution to a vibrant and stroll-worthy downtown area.

Ok, I’m not here to get into my plans for a better RVA. I’m here to tell you all about this local business owner, a woman after my own heart in that an idea can hit you smack dab in the face and poof, you’re a business owner. First of all, it takes a lot to be inspired enough to start your own business and secondly, it takes a lot to get people who want to push you to do so. This Charlottesville native did it —twice. You might know her from her hospitality role at Quirk Hotel or you could know her from working as a former wedding planner with the Empress of bossdom, Christine Greenberg at The Hive Wedding Collective. I happened to discover Noelle’s wares after visiting Urban Set Bride. The nicely presented kit was notably unique and I immediately thought, “Ooooo closing gifts!”

Noelle is a friendly individual and it’s easy to pick up on her hospitality traits. I like walking into an establishment and feeling invited, comfortable. Blue Sage and Gifted do just that, it has that homey feeling. It was fortunate Noelle landed the historical storefront which houses her two realms, complete with ironically already painted blue walls when she moved in. It is a pretty space and lends itself to having to try on gowns for a few hours.

Parent has lived in RVA for ten years and was a frequent visitor while her brother attended VCU in 2003. Back then, Richmond had a little more grit than it does now, but she found her niche here and eventually became a Richmonder herself. As we discuss the inspiration and successes of RVA’s local businesses, I tell her how amazing it is to see people I grew up with, now contributing to the growth of Richmond, and how she too is a part of that progress.

Noelle houses about 200 consignment and sample wedding dresses. Some still have tags on them (brides change their minds a lot) and some are the stuff dreams are made of. It is not surprise a majority of her samples come from Urban Set, you gotta love the sisterhood! Richmond lost it’s one and only bridal consignment shop before Noelle had an inkling she would take on that task. The nearest one was 2 hours away in Virginia Beach and vendors were getting tired of the inconvenient distance to deliver the samples. So voila, with a bonk on the head, Noelle decided to open Blue Sage to accommodate sample gown deliveries for Richmond.

The appointment only shop carries the most current styles and if you are seeking a dazzling dress at an affordable price point (25-45% off), then you definitely want to peruse her racks. Some of you may not know what exactly a Sample gown is, I can honestly tell you I had an idea but didn’t know 100% what that meant either! Sample gowns are the gowns that salons carry for try ons. They are never worn to an actual ceremony. Noelle says the consignment gowns are sometimes better because they come already bustled, hemmed, and are most affordable (starting at 40% off). I don’t know about you, but from the word engaged, the mark up on weddings is insane! Saving a few hundred on a dress to be worn for a most likely 1.5 (hello, reception wardrobe change), sounds pretty smart to me.

Not a bride? Not a problem. Parent also owns Gifted RVA, which was not intended to share the space with Blue Sage initially, but it turns out her space lends itself to showcasing her products. She had run Gifted through its online medium since its inception, so whether they stay put or not is still in the works. There’s an ease to fulfilling online rather that physical shopping. With usually a 48 hour window, you can have your gift kit delivered or available for pick up at prices starting at $35. Her kits consist of some of the coolest locally sourced products and would make any receiver flattered. A majority of her business comes from the corporate world which has grown exponentially since she started in 2017. They truly make great gifts and not only are you supporting all the locals, but you can also give back. Gifted has a special box just for giving back. It includes products from local Richmond Businesses who give back in their own way. In addition, for each give back box that is purchased, Gifted will give a care package to SafeHarbor to help support those who are struggling with homelessness and domestic abuse. How very Richmond!

Gifted’s gifts make for fantastic closing gifts, birthday and anniversary presents, and impressive client handouts. Some of the vendors she is currently using include, Grateful Heart Shop, Robin’s Egg Essentials, Lammar Marie's Gourmet Popcorn, and Storied Goods to name just a few. She concentrates on seasonal gift giving with September being the biggest birthday month and Holiday season causing space to be rented to complete the multitude of orders, so get in early! Impress your mom in May with a nice kit full of goodies. I’m a big fan of the Grateful Heartshop Richmond keychains and Swig Tumblers.

Whether it’s a beautiful wedding gown you are looking for or a gift that makes a statement or both, Noelle’s wares fulfill a shopper’s desire and supports not just her local business, but others as well. We can hope that others will join Blue Sage Bridal in holy commerce birthing bustling footsteps and future patronage. Now that’s a union worth striving for!

Blue Sage Bridal and Gifted RVA are located at 20 E Main St, Richmond, VA and for an appointment, click below.

Broken Hearts and Opened Doors

You’ve lived in this home for over 20 years. Now you and your partner have decided to split ways. Maybe with children, maybe with the now joint-custodied pet, but definitely a situation that can be incredibly emotional and stressful, add selling a home and you’re dealing with a “more than I can handle” situation.

According to the VDH, in 2018 there were over 20,000 divorces in Virginia. We all want that happily ever after and we all want the house it came in! The last thing you want to deal with while splitting up is splitting property. Unless you are fighting for a prime piece of real estate, most couples will sell their home. In Virginia, courts are not required to split real estate 50/50 between both parties. Instead, Virginia divides assets equitably and fairly, depending on who acquired the assets and how much each spouse put in. Judges can rule depending on how each party contributed to the house’s worth or they can rule to transfer the property to the spouse who maintained and improved the property primarily. Yes, I know Mickey did all the landscaping but she bought all the appliances! Not fun. So, to sell it is!

Now comes the hard part. The one where you weep as you pack up your belongings or see an old photo album. The one where you are arguing over who actually owns the signed copy of Prince’s Purple Rain album or you’re both in the kitchen reminiscing about a wooden spoon tale involving their mom and your tail. While all of these things are taking place in your home, you will soon have to publicize it to the world with a For Sale sign. Don’t worry, this too shall pass.

When you decide to choose an agent to sell your home during this time, there are some things to consider. First and foremost, you want an agent who is going to listen to you, whether you are eye-bloated from tears or red with rage or exhausted from the drain of it all, to have a realtor go above and beyond during this time would make a world of difference. Sounds silly right? What do you care if your realtor is there to hold your hand or not? I dunno, I mean I go spill everything to my acupuncturist when I’m feeling overwhelmed, or the nearest bartender. The point being, empathy is not dismissed in real estate.

I recently had a client who had to sell her home because she was going through a sudden divorce. She had to sell it quickly with no fuss. There were good days and bad days for her and all I could do was to communicate with her frequently, give her solid and cost-effective suggestions, and be understanding with her adamant price choice. I had to watch her go through the “death” of her relationship, and as an agent I wanted her to get the best value out of her house and push where I need to, but as her empathizer I wanted to dig the thorn out and sell it as quickly as possible so she could move on.

That’s the thing about agents, we see it all. We see the collected dust on shelves, we see the family photos we ask you to remove, we feel the tension with couples trying to figure it out, and we understand having to give up what will soon be an artifact in your history together. It’s personal. It’s intimate. Our relationship. So although we are watching you close this chapter of your life, we are also trying to help you, well…close, with the potential for a whole new chapter.

My advice is, when you are going through something this life changing, make sure you choose someone who is not only going to give you the truth about what it will take to get you sold, but to also remind you that this is a transition, and you can provide a lighter touch. And yes, I will bring you pizza or a six pack to help you get through it all. You may have built memories there, but you can take this and file it away and move on to that low maintenance condo in the city or that Cape Cod you’ve always wanted. No one wants to be in this place, but sometimes we have to go through it to get to a better one.

Wine All About It!

My love affair with wine started in the 90s I believe. I decided in my early twenties, that Maddog 20/20 and Strawberry Boon’s Farm was probably not the most sophisticated of indulgences. Once you start working in reputable restaurants, it’s almost a given that learning about wine is better than standing in front of a table, eyes towards the sky wondering if you actually know which wine you carry is the driest. Not a good look.

I fell in love with Cabs initially then I discovered the dark seductions of Tempranillo, Grenache, and Malbec. It’s the one beverage I consistently drink throughout the year and if it’s good enough for Jesus to prefer it to water, then it can’t be so bad! I have had some luscious wines in RVA and it seems only right that I share these experiences with you. Here’s the thing with wine, you have to try different ones to find what’s going to satisfy your palate, any good server or bartender will steer you in the right direction. Celebrate with me on the 18th of February and toast to good times…genuwine times.

These places have some of the most delicious wine choices.

• Secco, wide range and ask about their “secret stash”

• Brenner Pass, I’m a huge fan of discovering Lagrein here and their Nebbiolo is divine, their house wines are also something to sniff at!

• Adarra, if you are a fan of big Spanish reds, this is your spot, love their varieties.

• Heritage, Pignataro Negroamaro and the Raina Grechetto Umbria for you “orange” wine drinkers!

• La Grotta, I mean Italian food and Wine is divine! Seriously, this wine list is impressive.

• Shagbark, Wine Director, Rodney Rosser knows his grapes. They have an excellent bottle selection and there’s something for everyone there.

If you are looking to do some sipping at home, my favorite place to get wine is at Once Upon A Vine in Northside. They know their stuff there and every recommendation I get there is great, not to mention affordable! Here are a few that Pete Gariazzo (Once Upon) recommends:

Rosé

• Atlantique Rosé

• Guilhem Rosé 

• Eulalie Rosé

  
  Sparkling

• Aubert et fils

• Moet Chandon Brut

• Monteliana Prosecco

Reds

• Fableist Cabernet

• Mascarelli Montepulciano 

• Leese Fitch Pinot Noir (one of my faves)

Whites

• Federalist Chardonnay 

• Matua Sauvignon Blanc 

• Ca'lunghetta Pinot Grigio

Enjoy! Don’t forget to drink local and cap off your day today with a nice glass or two. Who needs the glass, it already comes in one!

How Do I Love Thee, Let Me Consume the Ways…

I had a rule when I was in the dating game—never eat on the first date. People questioned this, but the truth is, in my opinion, eating with someone is an intimate act. It is one of vulnerability and surrendering of the senses. It’s also awkward at times sitting with a stranger while chewing politely the meal that may, or may not be paid for, interviewing for the position of Executive Companion. I think there’s different levels of dining experiences depending on where you are in the relationship. I mean think about it, are you at the point where you can snag a bite from your partners plate or are you staying away from handheld foods? And, although we hope our partners are excellent cooks in the kitchen, we have been quite favored to have some of the best restaurants in the country.

Finding places for romantic dinners is easy in a place so saturated by delicious meals. So, no matter what “base” you’re at, you can find savory morsels, romantic settings, and casual comforts. Here are a few of my favorites because let’s face it, the date could bomb, but at least your stomach will be happy

First Base

“Wait, what’s a nice place like you doing in a girl like this?”

• Don’t Look Back
  Whatcha Doin’?

• Little Nickel
  A little for you and a little for me.

• Helen’s
  Slow and low that is the tempo.

• 8 1/2 at Scuffletown Park
  Getting to know you, getting to know all about you.

• La Bodega
  I’ve got the flavor, spice and everything nice.

Third Base

“I love you as certain dark things are loved, secretly, between the shadow and the soul.”

• Dutch & Company
  Intimate and savory.

• Adarra
  Authentically Impressive.

• Mama Zu
  Consistently Confident.

• Stella’s
  Stay for a while goodness.

• Bistro Bobette
  Lovely and Warm.

Second Base

”Put your hand on a hot stove for a minute and it seems like an hour. Sit with a pretty girl for an hour, and it seems like a minute.”

• Cafe Rustika
  Cozy Comforts.

• Nota Bene
  Notably Amorous.

• Secco
  Keeping it light.

• Maple & Pine
  Open and Airy.

• Kuba Kuba
  Energetically Vibrant.

Homerun

"Death cannot stop true love. All it can do is delay it for a while."

• Brenner Pass
  Modern Love.

• Longoven
  Sensory Perception.

• L’Opossum
  Tantalizing Perfection.

• Lemaire
  Faithful Companion.

• La Grotta
  Old World Romance.

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Best Places to Meet People

Tinder not working for you? The hive emptying out on Bumble? Sometimes you just want to meet people organically. These are my favorite picks for such casual encounters.

• Cask Cafe. Why? Because the bar lends itself to communal conversation and it’s easy to listen without a bunch of loud noise. If things really kick off, you can escape to the back room and have some privacy (it’s not as sexy as it sounds.)

• Lemaire at Happy Hour. Why? Because you get to meet travelers from different places and who knows, some hot single celeb may be looking for someone just like you! I mean what better scenery to meet someone.

• Quirk Rooftop. Why? Cause it’s pretty and the outdoors is good for you.

• Chop Suey or Libraries. Why? Because what a person reads is a good indication that 1. they are literate and 2. Books are a good for conversation

• Lowes. Why? Because who doesn’t want a handy person around? I have tons of things to fix!

• Penny Lane or Rosie’s on Game Day or a Kicker’s Game. Why? Because people who watch sports tend to be passionate.

• Steady Sounds or Plan 9. Why? Because music is everything. We’re actually quite attracted to those who love the same sonics as we do.

• VMFA or Any Museum. Why? Because they enjoy beauty and get things that are beneath the layers.

• Grocery Stores. Stay out of frozen foods and get into the produce section.

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Interactive Dates

Sometimes you need some action in your action. RVA has some fun places for dates you should try out.

Hotel Greene
Signature Cocktails. Wes Anderson-esque setting. Indoor putt putt. What’s not to love!

River City Roll
Good Bites. Nice loungy vibe. Great for “striking” up conversation!

Bingo
Decent Craft Brews. A nice patio. Video Games Galore.

Goochland Drive-In
Still cool and what’s more date like than a drive in movie.

TopGolf or Drive Shack
Nothing says first date like the hitting of balls.

Join the Pinball Collective
High score all day long!

Tang and Biscuit
Group Date! Shuffleboard and Board Games.

Hollywood Cemetery. It’s actually quite romantic with the overlook of the river and the spirits of history. A very nice walk or bike ride indeed.

Colonial Shooting Range
You’d be surprised what a great date this can be.

Karaoke at Lakeside Tavern
Divey and sure to create a memorable moment, sing it loud and proud.

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Love Potions

If you’re like me and don’t want to eat on a first date, a good way to get to know someone is to just hang out and have a drink. These places are good for conversation and provide a nice space and good libations. I like a good bar for a first date. Sitting at the bar with a good bartender helps as well, they tend to facilitate conversation and can set a mood. Neighborhood bars are my favorite choices and remember, it doesn’t always have to be an alcoholic bar to be fun.

The Jasper
It’s dark in a good way. The bartenders will impress your date. You can take a walk down Carytown after.

Ninja Kombucha
Cute, neighborhood setting and it’s good for ya!

Union Market
A nice way to sit outside and enjoy each other’s company and plan for your life together in sought after Church Hill.

The Tottering TeaCup
So quaint and a nice hot cup of tea will put you both at ease.

Fuzzy Cactus
It’s fun with great music and affordable drinks and you can play pool!

Heritage
Very nice cocktail menu and a smaller bar and if you’re feeling confident, you can share an app.

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The Morning After

Looks like it’s breakfast for two! You like them, you really, really like them. Not ready to say goodbye? Enjoy a nice brunch/breakfast together at these fine establishments and set your next date!

Perly’s
Unique and always delicious.

Brunch
The name says it all.

Bamboo
For that lazy kinda morning.

Joe’s Inn
To soak up all the alcohol with!

Moore Cafe
When you gotta be to work on time.

Working with a Contractor? Here's some good advice...

10 Pieces of Advice for Working with a Contractor

As realtors, working with contractors is quite common, but as clients finding the right one who will fit our needs can be difficult. We have 10 good pieces of advice when hiring a contractor that will help you on your home project journey.

My New Home

I never thought I’d ever be selling houses. Time and time again people would approach me declaring I’d make a great agent. Four years later, here I am. I’ve taken the bundle of skills I have and now my journey is progressing into a career that I love and am excited about.

I’m happy to announce my new home at Nestiny Realty. I feel great things will come from this union and I hope it will make me a greater agent, one with more knowledge and one which will lead me to finding lifelong clients who will become friends. The best part of this business is building relationships with people and helping them on their endeavor to home ownership. There’s nothing more satisfying than handing someone those keys to a home which will serve many new memories to come and a community they will benefit from.

Home means so many things for me and having found Nestiny as my new real estate home is just as meaningful as the one I live in. I look forward to an enriching culture here and a new road to take my clients on. Let’s begin our adventures together and let’s find you a new beginning!