05 May 2023

VisitNorfolk’s Champion of Hospitality Awards for National Travel and Tourism Week 2023

Update: Meet the 2024 winners here.

May 7–13, 2023 is National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW), an annual tradition to celebrate the U.S. travel community and tourism’s essential role in stimulating economic growth, cultivating vibrant communities, creating quality job opportunities, inspiring new businesses and elevating the quality of life for Americans every day.

Tourism is essential to our region and plays an integral role in Norfolk’s economy. As the third largest economic driver for our city, the travel and tourism industry mobilized a $136.8 million impact in fiscal year 2022. With over 7,000 jobs in the tourism and hospitality sector, our industry attracts a multitude of talents and provides significant economic benefits to both local businesses and Norfolk residents.

To celebrate tourism in our city and to shine a light on the individuals and teams who make Norfolk such a welcoming city to experience, VisitNorfolk established in 2002 the Champion of Hospitality Awards. From March 13–April 7 we invited anyone who has had a positive hospitality experience in Norfolk to nominate an individual or an entire team for the Champion of Hospitality Awards. We are excited to share the winners of this year’s awards and encourage you to visit these Champions of Hospitality in person during your next Norfolk experience.

Peter G. Decker, Jr. Hospitality Associate of the Year

Ricky White, Front Desk Manager
Nauticus

“I’m nominating Ricky White as he has been an employee at Nauticus for over 20 years. Of the 370,000 guests Nauticus sees each year, Ricky is the first person to greet each and every one of them with a smiling face and welcoming attitude. Whether the guest is here to visit the Museum, go for a sail, participate in a military ceremony on the Battleship Wisconsin or head out on a cruise at the Half Moone, Ricky is ready to make their day at Nauticus the best one yet. We are so lucky to have such an amazing team member represent Nauticus.” —Rehn West, Director of Development & Marketing, Nauticus

Champion of Hospitality Winners

Brian Brinson, Owner
Lizard Cafe

“Brian is such a good guy who is dedicated to providing fresh, quality fare to a steady stream of Downtown diners. Two employees total are responsible for running the Lizard Cafe, and they have made it into the little gem that it is today.” —Barbara Gullickson, Director of Visitor Experience, VisitNorfolk

Yvan Devulder, Owner
La Brioche

“I wanted to recognize Yvan because without him, La Brioche would not exist. He initiated this project, and today he carries out and does essential and colossal work for our company.

For over four years, Yvan has been personally creating, developing and perfecting all of our recipes completely on his own (including creams, pastries, doughs, homemade chocolates, cookies and more) with impressive precision and rigor. Customers see me at the front of the shop and regularly praise me for our products, but it is truly him who runs our entire production and ensures that we maintain the same quality since the beginning. He holds himself to a high standard and has unlimited curiosity and great creativity, and he is also someone who regularly questions himself and is very professionally humble.

He arrived in Norfolk without speaking English, but that didn’t stop him from moving forward. We have been a couple for 30 years, and I am really impressed and have great admiration for him and his work. He is an extremely talented pastry chef, chocolatier and baker who is also very passionate about food.

Il est évidemment très gourmand.
He is obviously a big sweet tooth.”

—Jacqueline Devulder, Wife and Co-Owner, La Brioche

Ashtyn Greene, Founder
Virginia Cheese Company

“She greatly cares for her customers and is so knowledgeable about cheese. Every time I leave there I have learned something new!” —Hannah Christensen

Hampton Roads Transit Light Rail Operators

“Each day, operators of “The Tide” play an integral and important part of the region’s hospitality industry. During this transition into the post-pandemic era, while the number of visitors to the City of Norfolk continues to grow, the HRT Light Rail operators work tirelessly (often with a smile on their face!) to ensure that Norfolk’s visitors and residents alike can get around the city in a safe, efficient and relaxing manner. Thanks to our operators, guests staying at any of our Downtown hotels can easily hop on The Tide to check out a local restaurant, attend a festival in Town Point Park, visit the Norfolk State University Campus, see a show or sporting event at Scope or explore the nearby Elizabeth River Trail, all without needing a personal vehicle.” —Katie Fenimore, Marketing Communications Strategist, Hampton Roads Transit

Isiah Harrington, Restaurant Engineer
Hilton Norfolk The Main

“Isiah has been with our company since The Main opened. He is solely responsible for all food and beverage equipment and does an amazing job making sure we are able to keep everything running smoothly. We could not do it without the work he does behind the scenes.” —Theresa Kinkelaar, Director of Human Resources, Gold Key | PHR

Mary Kelly, Director of Sales and Marketing
Glass Light Hotel & Gallery

“Mary is such a delightful person to work with! She is incredibly talented, professional and joyful. She has a real sense of hospitality, which is getting rarer to find nowadays. I’m glad we have her on our team!” —Edouard Majoie, Food & Beverage Director, Glass Light Hotel & Gallery

Matthias Maihoefer, Executive Chef
Hilton Norfolk The Main

“Matthias joined the team in 2021 and has had a significant impact on the team. He has showcased his creative side through great menu additions and has led his team to success. He is a strong believer in supporting his team and will go out of his way to help anyone that needs it. He has taken money out of his own pocket to help an associate who was struggling. We are lucky to have a person of his talent on our team.” —Theresa Kinkelaar, Director of Human Resources, Gold Key | PHR

Carolina Mann
Norfolk Waterside Marriott

“Every time I go into the Marriott, Caroline Mann is always there with a smiling face and gives me all the information I need. When she interacts with the guests at the Marriott, she is very polite and welcoming! Definitely a standout in the world of hospitality.” —Valerie Mitchell, Marketing Coordinator, VisitNorfolk

Norfolk International Airport Volunteer Ambassadors

“The Norfolk International Airport Volunteer Ambassadors are responsible for greeting passengers traveling to and from Norfolk, assisting travelers with directions, providing visitor information about the region and more. Most of the individuals on this team are retired but choose to donate their time to make people feel welcome. Oftentimes, these volunteers are the first point of contact for visitors coming to Norfolk, and they truly strive to make the airport experience a happy and welcoming one.” —Sarah Hughes, Vice President of Marketing and Communications, VisitNorfolk

Kevin Ordonez, Owner
Alkaline

“During the pandemic, not only was payroll continued for months at Alkaline but so was health insurance for everyone on the company health plan. This remained in place even when 90% of the staff was no longer working in the restaurant anymore. In addition, I organized a program called “Feed 1500” which raised money to prepare, cook and distribute ready-to-eat meals for 1,500 hospital workers and first responders, 100% free of charge. During that time, the Feed 1500 project was picked up by World Central Kitchen, and I organized the preparation and delivery of over 5,000 more ready-to-eat meals to be donated to food-insecure communities. Still now, I take a wholehearted “people first” mentality when working with my team.” —Kevin Ordonez

Nancy Pearce, Sales Assistant
Sleep Inn at Lake Wright—Norfolk Airport

“Nancy has been with the property for 34 years and maintains the same attention to detail and sense of urgency with all of her clients. She is always looking for a winning situation for the company and the clients. She lends a helping hand to both the desk and catering sales. Nancy rarely makes anyone wait for a response and her clients love her and so do we!” —Alcina Phipps, General Manager, Sleep Inn at Lake Wright

Basil Reynolds, Gallery Host
Chrysler Museum of Art

“They go out of their way to make guests feel welcomed and answer questions.” —Jay Thomson, Museum Shop Manager, Chrysler Museum of Art

Anne Tauro, Catering Sales Manager
Sleep Inn at Lake Wright—Norfolk Airport

“Anne is more deserving of anyone I know for this award. She has been in the hospitality industry for over 40 years, but that isn’t why she has earned this award. It is because she takes time to pay attention to the details and listens to and implements the clients’ vision. Then she continues to grow the relationship with the client which turns into a repeat business for the property with little additional effort. She executes these amazing events with one other person with class and style.” —Alcina Phipps, General Manager, Sleep Inn at Lake Wright

John Vavrek, Server/Multiple Positions
Grain at Hilton Norfolk The Main

“John has been picking up extra shifts, sometimes working open to close, along with volunteering to work any position needed for the shift—whether it’s barback, host, serving and server assistant. He continuously moves on the floor without ever being told what needs to be done. He overall has helped us so much since getting hired, and the entire team absolutely loves his hard work!” —Theresa Kinkelaar, Director of Human Resources, Gold Key | PHR

Previous Post Next Post

04 April 2023

Norfolk Organizations Excelling in Inclusivity

A city that welcomes all to start, study, stay and vacation, Norfolk is vibrant and culturally diverse in its makeup of residents, businesses and visitors. Like so many destinations, Norfolk is home to organizations that are placing a special focus on ensuring its operations, services, products and/or mission are supporting diverse audiences, operating equitably, remaining inclusive to any and everyone and allowing access by removing physical, financial or sensory-related barriers. By visiting and supporting these organizations during your time in Norfolk, you’ll be further propelling the DEIA (diversity, equity, inclusion and access) initiatives that keep our city thriving as we celebrate the distinct cultures and values that make us unique.

Church Street Jazz Series

This incredible jazz series founded by Jay Lang brings internationally acclaimed performers of the highest caliber from around the world. The best seats in the house, however, are reserved for local students. Through Lang’s nonprofit, the H.J. Lang Foundation, middle and high school students take classes and workshops hosted by jazz artists and meet industry leaders. Proceeds from ticket sales and donations help to support the foundation. At each concert, the nonprofit surprises one student with a brand new instrument. Lang also donates gently used instruments to local schools’ music programs, all with an effort to inspire the next generation of musicians.

Coaster Coffee

Did you know that you can help propel a nonprofit’s mission simply by continuing a daily routine of caffeinating? Coaster Coffee is a nonprofit coffee shop in Ocean View that gives back to the community by providing food for individuals experiencing food insecurity, building community gardens, ensuring kids have access to the arts and helping unemployed individuals to find work. In their daily operations, Coaster Coffee serves as a neutral community meeting place where people of all ages, races, beliefs and socio-economic standing are welcome.

Coalescence Coffee

Another coffee shop centered on community, Coalescence exists to create spaces where people are welcomed and valued. In addition to offering a place for community members to enjoy a cup of coffee while working or catching up with friends in the Railroad District, Coalescence focuses on initiatives such as The Circle, which encourages charitable giving and puts the funds to use in small, community-oriented reconciliation projects. For instance, they’re helping a group of entrepreneurs in Kigali, Rwanda to open their own Coalescence Coffee, which aims to be a place of reconciliation between Hutu and Tutsi tribes.

Eggleston Garden Center and Farmers Market

This substantial garden center in Norfolk’s Riverview neighborhood sells a comprehensive variety of garden plants, herbs, houseplants, shrubs and trees, plus cute succulents and garden decor that make perfect gifts. They also offer a year-round, indoor farmers market that carries seasonal produce and locally made goodies. In addition to supporting local farmers and growers with your purchases, you’ll be supporting Eggleston’s mission of providing education, training and employment for persons with disabilities.

Eleanor’s Norfolk

Eleanor’s is a radical neighborhood bookstore and bottle shop that acts as a safe space for community activism, engagement and learning. The shop amplifies traditionally underrepresented voices and encourages those seeking to be a more active part of their community by offering opportunities for education and conversation.

Elizabeth River Trail (ERT)

The Elizabeth River Trail Foundation is focused on transforming the existing 10.5-mile trail into a resilient, inclusive, connected urban riverfront trail that connects people and businesses. Along the trail, there’s an ADA-accessible kayak launch along with a dynamic obstacle course to provide free fitness equipment for anyone who wishes to utilize it. The trail continues to expand in phases, making positive impacts on the health of people and environment and bringing waterfront access to everyone.

Maison Soleil

This fair trade retail shop in Ghent sells a variety of clothing, jewelry and accessories, home goods, gifts and more. It’s a curated selection of eco-friendly goods from around the world. Not only can you find well-made, sustainable and fashionable items here; your purchases can help empower women from around the world. Owner Lindsay Sims ensures that the items she carries follow fair trade principles, allowing female makers to feed their families, invest in their communities and even start their own businesses.

Prince Books

Open since 1982 in Downtown Norfolk, Prince Books offers an intelligent selection of fiction, poetry, history, biography, travel, cooking, spirituality and a complete children’s section. The independent bookstore strives to offer reading materials that spark necessary change. They feature a diverse mix of voices and prominently display a section of antiracism books for readers to educate themselves on the topics of Black history, race, social injustices and antiracism.

Pure Lagos

This locally based, husband- and wife-owned shop offers natural, organic health items, healing consultations, skincare and holistic, fair trade merchandise. They also carry an astounding collection of African art and rugs. In addition, co-owner Sia Alexander shares her entrepreneurial journey as a Black business owner with others who are interested in starting or scaling a business. The couple also host discussions on healthy eating and the importance of supporting black farmers.

Virginia Arts Festival

Not only does the Virginia Arts Festival bring a fantastic selection of memorable performances each season; they are committed to honoring, presenting and nurturing artists who reflect the rich tapestry of the communities the organization serves. Since 2004, the Festival has presented a wide range of performances in Norfolk’s historic Attucks Theatre, the oldest remaining theater in the U.S. that was envisioned, designed and built by African Americans. The organization is also committed to arts education, providing opportunities for students and educators that wouldn’t otherwise exist. Each year, the Festival reaches over 30,000 young people through student matinees, in-school performances, workshops and masterclasses, offering life-changing opportunities to see and study with virtuoso performers.

Virginia Stage Company

Take advantage of Norfolk’s performing arts scene with a visit to the Wells Theatre. Here you’ll see the Virginia Stage Company (VSC) bring to life a spectacular season of performances year after year. VSC strives for an inclusive and accessible experience for all audiences who have come to experience a show. They offer a state-of-the-art Loop Listening System for listening assistance through headsets available at the box office or directly into personal hearing aids. They feature ADA accessible seating with easy access for patrons with wheelchairs and walkers. The Tazewell Lounge offers a wheelchair lift that allows guests to participate in classes, workshops and performances. The second Saturday evening of every performance features ASL interpreters to translate entire shows. They also offer open captioning and audio description services, as well as large print programs available upon advance request.

Even behind the curtain, VSC is committed to an equitable experience. They work actively against systemic racism and have formed an Anti-Racism Team (ART) to navigate toward a more just future for theater. They also understand the importance of acknowledging the traditional Indigenous inhabitants of the land of which the Wells Theatre now stands.

Virginia Symphony Orchestra

To ensure all audiences can enjoy the experience of music, the Virginia Symphony Orchestra (VSO), offers Open Doors, a sensory-friendly concert series. Musicians speak about how each piece makes them feel or inspires them while board-certified therapists from Tidewater Music Therapy assist participants in activities to engage their own emotions and creativity. To include all voices, VSO hosts a Community Play-In & Sing-Along that embraces our community’s cultural richness and diversity, uniting people of all ages, faiths and backgrounds through participation in music, dance and spoken word. Finally, the VSO has launched an African American Fellowship Program in collaboration with ODU to advance the goal of increased diversity of orchestral musicians nationwide.

Previous Post Next Post

31 March 2023

Norfolk Bakeries Specializing in Wedding Cakes

One of the sweetest parts of a wedding day is, without a doubt, the cake! If you’re getting married in Norfolk, you’ll be pleased to know there are some top-notch bakery options right in our city that would be ideal for creating the confection of your dreams. From sinfully indulgent stacked layers to simple sweets for an intimate affair, here’s a look at Norfolk’s bakeries that specialize in wedding cakes.

Bar-Q Desserts

Maybe you haven’t considered ordering your wedding cake from a barbecue joint. Maybe you should. Norfolk’s beloved Bar-Q (BARK), situated inside Bold Mariner Brewing in Ocean View, is known for their Southern blend of multi-regional-inspired barbecue, but they’re equally loved for their completely indulgent, out-of-the-box sweets selection from Bar-Q Desserts. They take custom orders for special occasions, including weddings, so get in touch to start a very sweet conversation.

La Brioche

What started as a way for La Brioche owners Yvan and Jacqueline to bring memories of French bakeries to their new home in Norfolk has translated to some of the finest, most authentic treats around. Authenticity is a great quality to have in love and in baked goods, so it’s a good thing that La Brioche caters to special events. Contact them directly, and look forward to an elevated experience on your big day.

Naas Bakery

IYKYK … and locals know that Naas Bakery doesn’t mess around when it comes to baked goods. The beloved, old-school bakery on Tidewater Drive is lauded for their doughnuts and apple fritters, which regularly sell out. They haven’t changed a lot over the years—probably because they don’t need to. As with their bakery items, the ladies here know their way around a wedding cake, so stop by and have a chat (just not on a Saturday morning when the early birds line up for a sugar rush).

POWnd Cakes By Jen

“We do wedding cakes just like we do anything else—the nontraditional way!” says Jen, Anglin, owner of POWnd Cakes by Jen. When the nontraditional way involves her moist and buttery pound cake confections, we say tradition is overrated anyhow. The melt-in-your-mouth texture of these cakes is practically indescribable and available in any flavor listed on their website, including macadamia white chocolate, turtle, butter pecan, lemon blueberry and caramel apple. “Our cakes are simple, elegant, old fashioned and delicious,” Anglin says. “They may not be the most glamorous, but they have a great personality.”

As for ease factor, POWnd Cakes by Jen transport very easily, and since these cakes stay moist and delicious for days, they can be picked up a day or two before the wedding.

Couples can opt for tiered POWnd cakes to mimic a layered wedding cake. (They don’t frost or decorate cakes, and trust us when we say the flavor and consistency speaks for itself.) Alternatively, some couples purchase the cakes in various flavors and sizes for a lovely and tempting display. And finally, there’s the option of giving a mini POWnd cake to each guest as a wedding favor. We can’t think of anything sweeter.

Stockpot

You may know Stockpot for their healthy comfort foods and ramen Wednesdays. But did you also know that Rebecca Kelley, the fabulously talented baker at Stockpot, creates some of the most elegantly designed, sinfully delectable cakes in the city? “Becca is a wonderfully creative person,” says Stockpot General Manager Amber Kostka. “These type of events are her favorite because she gets to use her skills to make something unique for each couple.”

Some of their most popular wedding cake flavors are almond, raspberry almond, lemon, vanilla, vanilla almond, classic chocolate and red velvet, but the possibilities are endless. As far as frosting goes, traditional buttercream is preferred for the look and taste, but fondant can be used if the design calls for it. “We try to remain flexible to what the couple wants,” Kostka says. “Our baker is so talented, and she feels comfortable doing a version of almost anything.”

Want to try before you buy? Stockpot offers tastings for couples looking to sample different flavor options (4 flavor samples are $40). From there, if they decide to move forward with Stockpot for their cake, the restaurant deducts that cost from the final price. “We are competitively priced and truly care about the couple having a great cake for their big day,” Kostka says.

Tessa’s Creations

With over 30 years of experience Tessa (owner of Tessa’s creations) has brought her self-taught talent to Norfolk’s Ghent neighborhood to establish a bakery and catering business. Some of her popular cake flavors are orange, spice, dark chocolate, strawberry, lemon and coconut, but if you have something different in mind, just ask! When it comes to frosting, look for options like white chocolate, salted caramel or Italian buttercream and many more. Plus, vegan and gluten-free options are available upon request!

Previous Post Next Post

24 March 2023

Eleanor's Norfolk

All photos by Kari Austin

Erin Dougherty opened Norfolk’s feminist bookstore and bottle shop for one simple reason: “I wanted to go to it,” she says. So, she created it for others to come to.

As with many entrepreneurs starting out, Dougherty’s reason for launching was rooted in a passion to spark change. It was also propelled by factors stemming from the pandemic.

At the onset of COVID-19, she was managing a local craft beer bar. “It is by far the most financially unstable I’ve ever been as an adult,” she recalls. During this same timeframe, uprisings were happening across the country resulting from the murder of George Floyd and the fight against racial injustices. During what felt like a time of hopelessness, Dougherty began asking herself the same question many others were asking: “What can I do?”

She deeply wanted to get involved, but because of her financial situation, supporting with a donation simply wasn’t an option.“There has to be something more that I can contribute than just individual conversations,” she told herself.

She had visited a feminist bookstore in New York called Bluestockings and felt inspired by the community activism surrounding the space. When talking to her sister one evening, she came to the realization, “I want to do Bluestockings,” but also “I just really want there to be booze.”

From this realization came Eleanor’s Norfolk, a local intersectional feminist bookstore and bottle shop, plus safe space for community activism.

“That’s truly how it came about,” Dougherty laughs. “It just fit in my brain to be all of the things combined in one spot. You don’t have to do just one thing; you can make it whatever you want.”

The Books

So, what is intersectional feminism?

This was the most common question Dougherty received from early customers familiar with feminism in its basic form. In short, intersectional feminism recognizes how women’s overlapping identities—which include factors of race, age, class, ethnicity, religion and sexual orientation—can impact barriers to gender equality.

The books at Eleanor’s are carefully curated and fall into an expansive list of genres not found at most mainstream bookstores: race and racism, movement building, indigenous studies and histories, damn the man, feminist lit, disability justice, and parenting for liberation, just to name a few. Plus, there’s an extensive kids’ and young adult section.

With all the authors, titles and genres to choose from, how did Dougherty go about curating this diverse selection of books? “I read a lot of reviews, articles and books. I listened to a lot of interviews and podcasts of people who know more than me,” she shares. “It’s just like any other curation you would do where you seek out sources you can trust and people that you share similar ideas or values with and go from there.”

The Bottles

Dougherty’s experience in the craft beer world had led her to appreciate the “community that food and drink brings, that ability to sit and be together,” which she wanted to incorporate into the store’s concept.

Eleanor’s offering of bottles (wine, beer, cider and mead) is also carefully curated to reflect the store’s values of diversity and sustainability. The selection is focused on natural wines from makers who farm sustainably and organically and produce biodynamically. “And people who give back to their community,” Dougherty adds.

Patrons can’t imbibe on site (unless it’s part of a special tasting event), but they can buy bottles to enjoy elsewhere.

Bottle tasting events each come with their own focus. For instance, for a climate in wine series, they’ll discuss a particular region, what’s happening in that region, what the producers are doing and how it’s changing the landscape. A past Galentine’s tasting featured Richmond-based Triple Crossing, which has the largest number of female brewers.

The Events

In addition to monthly and bimonthly book clubs, Eleanor’s hosts a variety of events such as Slow Flow Yoga and Wine Tasting in partnership with Sky’s the Limit Yoga; Queer Yoga with Bhav Brigage, a grassroots platform that brings affordable, accessible, philanthropic yoga and wellness out in the community; and a Queer Writers Meet-Up in partnership with The Muse Writers Center.

Dougherty also organizes events outside of Eleanor’s, like the Boozy Book Fair at Reaver Beach Brewing Co. in 2022. She’s working to organize a Hampton Roads Bookstore Crawl for Independent Bookstore Day in April. Participants can pick up a small passport at whichever participating location, and from there, they will have a week to visit as many of the bookstores on the passport as possible. “It’s really about getting out of your comfort zone, going into some of those places where you’ve never been or just don’t know about,” she says. “We have a good literary community.”

The Community Activism

Along with being a radical neighborhood bookstore and bottle shop, Eleanor’s acts as a safe space for community activism, engagement and learning—the main reason Dougherty wanted to open a place like Eleanor’s.

“If you’re an adult human, it’s so hard to find other people who share similar ideals or ideas or are open to talking about them,” she reflects. “I do think it’s important that we have a space where people can dream and scheme and find accomplices outside of everyday social circles. You have to broaden, be a little bigger if you want to make the impact that we know we can make and that we know everybody deserves.”

Out of the community activism space started the Hampton Roads Mutual Aid Network, a group of local do-gooders focused on building community based on the principles of mutual aid and solidarity. Dougherty co-founded this network with several nonprofits in the region including the Hampton Roads Reproductive Justice League, Humanities Behind Bars and 757 Community Fridges (whom Dougherty worked with to establish a hygiene pantry outside of Eleanor’s).

“Really just building community is the focus of it,” she explains. “Yes, how can we help people who are in need, but also how can we live together in a more open way?” The more people she met, the more she realized the value of helping to connect organizations and work together for good. “We were so siloed,” she explains. “Some of them were already working together, but some of them weren’t.”

From what started as feelings of “What can I do?“ Dougherty says that after starting Eleanor’s and connecting with other organizations, she feels way less hopeless.

“I’m glad it’s happening in Norfolk,” she says. “There’s so many good people in Norfolk who want the world to be better and want us all to be able to live happily. I think that’s really special.”

Previous Post Next Post

22 March 2023

April 2023 Events Guide

Spring is officially here, and with it comes a fresh season of events! Take the opportunity to experience Virginia Arts Festival’s unforgettable performing arts lineup, including the Virginia International Tattoo. Immerse yourself in culture at a museum or art exhibit. There’s also plenty of chances to get outside, especially with the Tides opening game kicking off an exciting season of baseball. Save the dates for these April events in Norfolk!

The Great Exhibition: BÉBÉS at the Barry

Ongoing
Barry Art Museum

During the last quarter of the nineteenth century, French dollmakers popularized a new type of bisque doll that would be the first to represent young children: the bébé. Unlike previous dolls (which resembled adults or teenagers), bébés offered children idealized representations of themselves; they transformed the doll industry by engaging the larger world. Appearing at international events like the World’s Fair and advertised everywhere from story books to scientific articles, the bébé’s influence has been expansive and varied, securing a prominent place in doll history.

Perspectives: Modern and Contemporary Glass from the Waitzer Collection

Ongoing
Barry Art Museum

PERSPECTIVES: Modern and Contemporary Glass from the Waitzer Collection debuts selections from the Waitzer family’s extraordinary gift of 165 glass artworks to the Museum.

Leah (1937–2021) and Richard Waitzer (1932–2019) of Norfolk, VA, shared a life-long interest in the arts that blossomed into a passion for collecting modern American painting and international glass sculpture. Naturally curious and thirsty for knowledge, the couple enjoyed decades of personal growth and intellectual enrichment from their active engagement with the field of contemporary glass sculpture and design. The Waitzers were mentors and friends to the Barrys, and their internationally significant contribution includes works that span the history of modern glass, from Louis Comfort Tiffany to Dale Chihuly and Lino Tagliapietra, among so many more.

Sam Bartlett: Low Stakes, Plywood Cutouts & Everyday Comix

Ongoing
Baron and Ellin Gordon Art GAlleries

Sam Bartlett is an American folk artist, public-art instigator, cartoonist, performer, musician, and composer. As an artist, Sam specializes in painting and cutting sculptures from salvaged wood. He derives inspiration from the naturally low stakes involved in using free materials. Bartlett does virtually no planning or sketching for his artwork, preferring to try to harness the energy of a first take. Common themes in his work include complex physical relationships between people, things on top of other things, things being bitten and eaten, old-time and Irish music communities and mortality.

Silent Disco

April 1
Waterside District

Bring the noise! Every first Saturday is Silent Disco at Waterside District! Enjoy two DJs and a music video wall, one drink ticket, plus access to drink specials. 21 and over.

Yoga + Wine Tasting

April 1
Sky’s the Limit Yoga

Yoga + wine sounds mighty fine… don’t you think? Join Sky’s the Limit Yoga for fun and chill vibes on and off the mat. Danielle will guide you through an hour-long “feel good flow.” Class will be filled with fun moves, dope songs and all the feels! After class, switch gears and sip on some wine with local sommelier and owner of Vino Culture Kiera Hill, who will guide participants through a tasting of four eclectic wines from around the world—perfect for early spring!

Mimosa Fest

April 2
Waterside District

The nation’s largest Mimosa Fest returns to Waterside District! Enjoy multiple venues, specialty mimosas, live entertainment and ONE BIG SUNDAY FUNDAY!
VIP Admission includes early admission + access to VIP section + (3) mimosas + drink specials.
General admission includes one mimosa + drink specials.

Tides Baseball Games

April 4–9, April 18–23
Harbor Park

Save the date of April 4 for the opening of Tides baseball season at-home games! Then look forward to supporting the home team all season with fun events like Wine Down Wednesday, DJ nights, Steam Education Nights, Star Wars Night, Filipino American Heritage Night, Bark in the Park, free photos with the Easter Bunny and more!

Brian Regan

April 6
Harrison Opera House

Critics, fans and fellow comedians agree: Brian Regan is one of the most respected comedians in the country with Vanity Fair calling Brian, “The funniest stand-up alive,” and Entertainment Weekly calling him, “Your favorite comedian’s favorite comedian.” Having built his 30-plus year career on the strength of his material alone, Brian’s non-stop theater tour continuously fills the most beautiful venues across North America, visiting close to 100 cities each year.

Party101 With Matt Bennett

April 6
The NorVa

Matt Bennett is an actor/musician living in Los Angeles. At 18 he made his acting debut on the hit Nickelodeon television show “Victorious.” Since then he’s appeared on “The Big Bang Theory,” “Sam and Cat,” “Gray’s Anatomy,” and in movies like “Me and Earl and the Dying Girl,” “Bridesmaids,” and “Stanford Prison Experiment”. In 2023 you can catch Matt on the road with his new DJ night Party101, a throwback celebration of music from Nickelodeon and Disney Channel.

Glorilla

April 7
Chartway Arena

Grammy nominated rap artist GLORILLA makes a stop at Chartway Arena. She’ll be joined on stage by Luh Tyler, YvngxChris and Lay Bankz.

Way Down Yonder Tour: Chase Rice

April 8
The Norva

Chase Rice has established himself as a powerful force in Nashville and beyond. With 2.2 million albums sold and over 2.1 billion total streams, plus a legion of passionate fans, Rice sees the recent single “If I Were Rock & Roll” as a launching pad for music that says what he wants to say and how he wants to say it.

K camp

April 9
The Norva

Most well-known for a mellow and laconic vocal approach, yet capable of switching to an outwardly emotional mode with sung hooks, Atlanta-based rapper K Camp toiled underground for years before he achieved commercial success with “Money Baby” and “Cut Her Off” (both 2013).

Hamilton

Through April 9
Chrysler Hall

HAMILTON is the story of America then, told by America now. Featuring a score that blends hip-hop, jazz, R&B and Broadway, HAMILTON has taken the story of American founding father Alexander Hamilton and created a revolutionary moment in theatre—a musical that has had a profound impact on culture, politics, and education.

Company – HAMILTON National Tour -(c) Joan Marcus 2021

Philadelphia Ballet: Swan Lake

April 14–16
Chrysler Hall

This sleek company, as versatile as it is beautiful, has been transformed by its Artistic Director, Angel Corella—the legendary former American Ballet Theatre principal called “nothing short of perfect” by The New York Times. When Corella set out to stage the classic Swan Lake for Philadelphia Ballet, he brought decades of experience, and the result is a revelation, an experience that fully forms the characters of the prince, the spellbound “swans” and the romance at the heart of the story. Add to that, vivid storytelling, “gorgeous costumes” and sets (Phindie.com) and a company of dancers drawn from the best in the ballet world, and you have an unforgettable experience, “dazzling…and lovely to behold” (Bachtrack.com).

Adult Night at the Zoo

April 15
Virginia Zoo

Unleash your inner wild child during this adults-only evening at the Zoo! Trails and exhibits will be open late, and there will be drinks, a DJ and a Food Truck Round-Up alongside yard games to play in the Event Field.

I love the ’90s Bash Bar Crawl

April 15
Waterside District

Alright, stop, collaborate and listen! Time to lace up your high tops, put your fanny pack on and get piggy with it to the best music of the ’90s!

Orville Peck

April 15
The NorVa

Orville Peck is a country recording artist and songwriter known for his deep baritone voice, strong musicianship and songs that are sincere yet bold in their storytelling. Never confirming his identity, Orville, who is openly gay and lived an itinerant life, is never seen without his signature, fringed mask. Orville, known for his unique personal style, has collaborated with many fashion brands including but not limited to Beyoncé’s Ivy Park, Dior, Michael KORS and Pamela Love amongst others.

2023 Virginia International Tattoo

April 20–23
Scope Arena

The largest spectacle of music and might offers an astounding display of inspirational military music, majestic massed pipes and drums, show-stopping drill team maneuvers and more.

The heartbeat of the 2023 Virginia International Tattoo will be its incredible international cast of more than 800 performers, with bands from the U.S. Army, Navy and Marine Corps joined by civilian and military performers from seven nations. You’ll see returning favorites such as Norway’s Band and Drill Team of His Majesty the King’s Guard, the Singapore Armed Force Central Band and the Massed Pipes and rums from four nations. The Tattoo will also include first time performers which are sure to become new favorites, including the Latvian Central Band. The soul of the 2023 Virginia International Tattoo will be an emotional and grateful “Tribute to Military Families.”

Norfolk NATO Festival

April 20, April 22
Scope and Town Point Park

Come celebrate the NATO alliance during the Virginia International Tattoo during two days of events. Enjoy military music and ceremony on the SCOPE Plaza during the Norfolk NATO Festival Flag Raising. Then on Saturday, experience the longest continuously running parade in Hampton Roads and the only parade in the United States honoring NATO. Finally, join in a celebration and appreciation of our local NATO headquarters. Interact with NATO representatives and explore international heritage with cultural performances, international art, cuisine and craft beers. Come celebrate with the whole family in a European street fair atmosphere in Downtown Norfolk.

Celebrate Trails Day

April 22
Elizabeth River Trail

April 22 is Earth Day, and it’s also Celebrate Trails Day! Show the Elizabeth River Trail, our community and the environment some love by leading a cleanup on the trail. Plan a cleanup in any of these trail sections: Harbor Park, Downtown Waterfront, Freemason Sentara Loop, Fort Norfolk, Lamberts Point, Larchmont/Edgewater or Lochhaven.

Start by registering your cleanup, completing your cleanup on April 22 and then reporting your cleanup.

Silent Disco Yoga

April 22
Sky’s the Limit Yoga Co.

Join Danielle Talley (aka The Caffeinated Yogi) as she guides you on the mat and DJ CanRock as he spins the tunes IN YO EARS… Okay, in your headphones… but that’s still pretty rad, don’t ya think?! This is a great way for you to disconnect from your soundings as you will only hear Danielle and the beats in your noise canceling headphones. Class is open to all levels, but headsets are limited! Snag a ticket in advance to guarantee your spot!

For King + Country

April 22
Chartway Arena

Performing brand new music from their latest album and fresh stage production, this will be an evening you won’t soon forget!

Romantic Meltdown

April 22
Chrysler Hall

His Symphony No. 1 was reportedly Tchaikovsky’s own favorite piece. Like Tchaikovsky, composer Anna Clyne, an inventive collaborator once described by NPR as “fearless,” always tells a story with her music to create a very distinct sound and color. Also on the program is the piece lovingly called “Rach 2” by its legions of devotees—the ultimate piano thrill ride.

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater

April 28–30
Chrysler Hall

This legendary company, beloved by generations of audiences and revered by critics around the world, lifts audiences to their feet with performances of classics by their founder, the Presidential Medal of Freedom-awarded Kennedy Center Honoree Alvin Ailey, and some of the most exciting contemporary choreographers of the 20^thand 21^stcentury. “The dancing is wonderful—assured, skillful, incredibly fast. The evening concludes, as does every performance, with Ailey’s Revelations, from 1960, set to spirituals and gospel, a triumphant hymn to the human spirit, moving from a sense of sorrow to joy-filled life” (The Guardian, UK).

Taste of India

April 29
Chartway Arena

Taste of India is one of the largest Asian Indian Festivals in Virginia attracting about 7,000 to 10,000 people each year. It is a collaborative effort of hundreds of Indians living in Hampton Roads in order to share the heritage with residents of Hampton Roads. It is on one of the most popular cultural single-day events organized by any ethnic group in the region.

Game Changers

Through April 30
Nauticus

Get your game on and discover how innovation has shaped the video game industry! Game Changers takes you on a fascinating journey, exploring the past and uncovering the future of gaming. Game Changers examines how the intersection of audio, storytelling, graphics, and gameplay creates the immersive environment of current video gaming systems.

See our full calendar of events here!

Previous Post Next Post

10 March 2023

Maison Soleil

During a visit to Maison Soleil in Ghent, on first glance, you’ll see a colorful variety of clothing, jewelry, art, children’s items and so much more. But during a closer look, you might start to see some of the stories behind these products.

The line of fun flannel shirts, for instance, supports women in India, combining fair-trade labor practices with sustainably sourced materials. The beautifully beaded earrings were ethically crafted in Nepal, with purchase proceeds directly empowering the artisan to create a life she is proud of through a sustainable job she loves. The abstract piece of art was created by a local artist just five minutes away, and the children’s socks, in addition to keeping little toes warm, are helping to fight for equality and save LGBTQ lives.

It’s the stories behind the merchandise that sparked the idea for Norfolk native Lindsay Sims to open her very own fashion boutique focused on empowering women through fair trade shopping.

As she was browsing social media years ago, Sims discovered a brand called Trades of Hope, which sells fair trade jewelry and ethical fashion to combat major challenges faced by women around the world, including lack of jobs, human trafficking, poverty and social oppression. Sims became impassioned as she learned about the ways in which shopping fair trade empowers women and the ripple effect that extends to their communities. “Women are more likely to put the money back into the community than men are, which is an interesting concept to think about,” she explains. “When I learned what fair trade was and how you could buy fair trade fashion—clothes, jewelry, home goods and bags—I was like, ‘I’m never going back.’”

She decided to start her own business, first launching while living in Washington, D.C. in 2017. It was a time when more conversations were starting to circle around the frustrations of gender gaps in corporate America, and the #metoo movement was at a height. In short, it felt like an important time to focus on women’s empowerment.

Sims would spend her weekends popping up at different vendor markets in both Baltimore and D.C., plus selling items online, all while maintaining a full-time accounting career.

At first, Sims thought she started the retail business because she was bored in her career. But now as she reflects back, she attributes the decision to a loss she experienced around the same time. Her grandmother passed away just a month before Sims’ wedding, and the loss propelled her to start asking herself these questions: ‘Am I doing what I want to do? Am I happy with my career and this corporate job that I have? Am I fulfilled? Am I giving back enough?’”

She ultimately decided that she should do something that not only gives back but also targets a specific socioeconomic background. “A lot of our artisans are women of color,” she explains. “That’s where my focus came into play.”

After running her retail business as a side hustle for several years, Sims reached a point where she was ready to make a change. As she was in the process of entering a Ph.D. program to further her accounting career, she changed directions and instead decided to take a leap with her retail business. “Worst case scenario, at least I tried,” she laughs.

Sims returned to her home city, and in July 2022, she launched a storefront in Ghent, which has allowed her to evolve her brand and grow the collection of merchandise.

Maison Soleil features an ever-changing, high-quality, eclectic mix of clothing, accessories, home goods, cheeky greeting cards and stickers, baby items, bagged coffees and tees, wines, chocolates and macarons, gifts and more, created from women artisans around the world (plus some local women, too!) who earn fair wages for the products they create. The majority of items in Maison Soleil have been certified by the World Fair Trade Organization or the Fair Trade Federation, both of which vet brands practicing fair trade standards.

In addition to running a successful, ethically-focused retail business, Sims has gotten an opportunity to spread education and awareness on the importance of buying fair trade. “Some complain about the prices,” she shares, even though she aims to price products affordably, with the majority costing less than $100. What she discovers through deeper conversation is that people may not understand what the term “fair trade” means or make the connection that for an artisan to be paid a fair wage for the product they’re creating, the price is higher for the consumer.

“You have to think about the person who’s making the product,” Sims explains. “We’re all connected. There is a person on the other side of the supply chain who’s trying to make ends meet just like we are. They’ve got children. They want their community to thrive. It’s not just a machine.”

Sims urges people to consider the products they’re buying. Sometimes lower prices mean that items were created in sweatshops by workers earning unfair wages. “A lot of people don’t want to think about it or they’ll say it’s political,” she says. “It’s really not political. It’s a human rights violation.”

At the same time, Sims is careful not to exploit the artisans represented in her store or promote them in a way that evokes pity. “We want to lift these people up,” she says. “They’re now able to feed their children, put clothes on their backs, put a roof over their heads, send their kids to college—because of this dignified work.”

Maison Soleil is open Tuesdays 11 a.m.–6 p.m. and Mondays 11 a.m.–4 p.m., or you can shop their online boutique any day, any time from anywhere.

Previous Post Next Post

03 March 2023

Unique Wedding Venues in Norfolk

Choosing where to say, “I do” is one of the first and most important decisions for planning a wedding. The location sets the tone for all the other parts of the day and makes a statement about who you are as a couple. That said, you’ll want to choose a venue that’s as unique as your relationship. Norfolk is distinctly and purposefully vibrant with plenty of out-of-the-box venue options including spots exuding historical charm, locales utilizing nature as a backdrop and even places that are made for partying to celebrate your love into the late hours. Your love doesn’t fit into a category, and neither do these destinations. No matter what you love, there’s a location to help you celebrate that and incorporate your interests into the occasion. Here are some of the most unique wedding venues in Norfolk, VA.

Locales for Lovers of …

Animals: Virginia Zoo

Take your love on the wild side by hosting your wedding at the Zoo. Take advantage of the venue’s grand event pavilion, featuring all the amenities of indoors but with a fresh perspective. To take your event to the next level, you can add on an animal encounter or train tickets, allowing guests to participate in a one-of-a-kind experience while celebrating your love.

Architecture: NEON House

This two-story event rental space in Norfolk’s NEON District blends historic industrial chic appeal with modern design elements. With multiple space options to hold your ceremony, cocktail hour and reception, the possibilities are endless to bring your vision to life. The studio features brick walls, exposed beans and an 18-foot glass garage door while the gallery boasts floor-to-ceiling brick walls, charming architectural details and tons of stunning natural light.

Art: Chrysler Museum of Art

For a couple immersed in the wonderful world of art, a wedding at the Chrysler Museum is a must. Whether you desire a small and understated affair or a large and extravagant reception, there is a space for you. Consider Huber Court, the museum’s magnificent atrium and their most impressive event space. Alternatively, the Perry Glass Studio is an unforgettable experience for a seated dinner or stand-up reception, complemented by a live glass demonstration.

Books: Slover Library

For couples who love to get lost in a good book, we can’t think of a more suitable venue than Norfolk’s architectural marvel, the Slover Library. Not your typical library by any means, Slover is a spectacular destination innovatively designed to create a vital and dynamic resource for Norfolk’s residents and visitors. Slover offers an array of spaces to accommodate groups up to 250.

Flowers: Norfolk Botanical Garden

Have you always dreamed of getting married among gorgeous blooms, in a secret garden-style hideaway or in the presence of lush landscapes and natural beauty? A Norfolk Botanical Garden is like no other, encompassing 175 breathtaking acres. The Garden is the ideal setting for a dream wedding, with 13 serene outdoor locations to choose from. From an intimate party of 20 to an extravagant affair for up to 400 guests, the Garden has everything needed to make your love blossom.

Food: Four Eleven York

This elegant, beautiful and unique bed and breakfast with one of Norfolk’s most esteemed restaurants on-site is the ideal venue to host a rehearsal dinner, wedding reception or all three. The restaurant can accommodate 28 guests for a rehearsal dinner they’ll never forget, and the outdoor courtyard can hold up to 24 guests seated or up to 50 for a gathering. Four Eleven York is a true treasure in Norfolk and ideal for intimate weddings focused on a love for one another and an adoration for unmatched cuisine.

HISTORY: Martin Mansion

Located in the historic Martin Mansion (a 10,000-square-foot, 21-room Georgian revival built in 1909), the Woman’s Club of Norfolk is a stately and historic venue for couples who can appreciate the finest details and simple elegance of yesteryear. Celebrate the night away as dignitaries, celebrities and many presidents once did during the golden age of the Roaring Twenties. Create an extraordinary memory for you and up to 100 guests that will be recounted for years to come.

Previous Post Next Post

07 February 2023

Norfolk, VA: The Perfect Match for Meetings

Have you met your match yet—the one that sparks a connection, the one that’s got everything you need and the one that you just know deep down is the right choice? By the way, we’re not talking about a match for love; we’re talking about a match for meetings.

Finding the right destination for professional groups to gather isn’t as simple as it seems. You need all the expected amenities: adequate meeting and convention options plus space for breakout sessions, not to mention plenty of hotel accommodations. You need the convenience of a location that’s easy to travel to via highway, Amtrak or airplane. Finally, you need a place that’s worth the journey, a locale that’s bursting with irresistible charm, unmatched arts and culture and a simply craveable culinary scene. In short, you need to meet in Norfolk.

Keep on reading to find out why so many meeting planners fall in love with Norfolk, Virginia and why it may just be the match you’ve been missing.

Easy to Get to … Hard to leave

Centrally located on the Eastern Seaboard, Norfolk is only hours from two-thirds of the U.S. population, making getting here and meeting here extremely convenient, not only for your travel needs but for your budget as well. We’re located along the Amtrak route, as well as two interstate highways that make traveling a breeze. Norfolk International Airport, your gateway to Norfolk’s unrivaled amenities, is less than 20 minutes from Downtown Norfolk and less than 10 minutes from Military Highway hotels. With direct and connecting flights to major cities across the country and beyond, it’s easy to get here; you may just not want to leave.

Hotels for Every Vibe

Hilton Norfolk The Main | Courtesy of VTC

Norfolk hotels offer the quality and service you’ve come to expect with the brands you know and trust. Some of our most popular Downtown meeting spaces include Hilton Norfolk the Main, Norfolk Waterside Marriott Hotel and Convention Center and Sheraton Norfolk Waterside—each offering flexible space for a myriad of group sizes, plus spectacular views of the bustling Downtown and the sparkling Elizabeth River. There’s also offsite meeting spaces throughout the city that provide a unique Norfolk experience that attendees will remember. Let us connect you with our Destination Services team to help take care of your planning process, from securing meeting spaces and lodging blocks to planning site visits, attendance promotions, guest transportation and offsite activities.

World-Class Arts Scene

Sure, you could meet in a place that lacks culture, diversity and uniqueness … but why would you? Meeting and convention attendees love coming to Norfolk for its vibrant arts, both visual and performing. During down time, visitors can peruse art museums like Barry Arts Museum, d’Art Center or Hermitage Museum & Gardens. Norfolk is home to one of the world’s largest collections of glass art, which can be experienced for free at the Chrysler Museum of Art and Perry Glass Studio, as well as the Glass Light Hotel & Gallery. If you happen to book your conference during a performance, we highly encourage attendees to score tickets. From Broadway hits and stunning opera performances to locally produced plays and live music in every form, there’s no shortage of shows to pique your visual and auditory senses.

Big City Amenities with Small Town Charm

Norfolk is like the Goldilocks of destinations … but with mermaids. We’ve got the culturally diverse richness, culinary gems and hustle and bustle that will energize and excite your convention attendees. Yet, there’s friendly faces, cozy cafes and quaint neighborhoods you’d expect to see in storybooks. We’ve got the best of both worlds in a not-too-big, not-too-small, just right kind of way.

Cuisine Worthy of Celebration

Convention attendees genuinely look forward to enjoying an unforgettable meal in a new city. With more than 600 independently-owned restaurants, Norfolk is the place to be for undeniably great food. Our proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and Chesapeake Bay means fresh seafood is never out of reach. The city’s cultural diversity lends itself to quite a selection of international-inspired eats. We’re also beloved for our dessert and brewery scenes. Best of all, our Destination Services team alerts local restaurateurs about meetings and conventions coming to the city so they’ll be prepared to offer a friendly welcome and a large table if the occasion calls for it. Check out our recommendations for group dining here.

Rich in History and Culture

Norfolk’s history dates back to 1682 when it was founded. Many flock here to discover our naval history by touring the world’s largest naval base via the Victory Rover or visiting Nauticus, featuring the Battleship Wisconsin, one of the largest and last battleships built by the U.S. Navy. We’re also home to a wealth of African American history, from the beloved Attucks Theatre (once considered the Apollo of the South) to Underground Railroad sites along Norfolk’s port that played a crucial role in the escape of many slaves. Spend some time at the MacArthur Memorial, the Cannonball Trail, Hunter House Victorian Museum and Myers House to get a true feel for how Norfolk’s past shaped the city into what it is today. Here’s even more ideas for historic attractions to visit.

LOVE Is All Around

From the initial LOVEworks sign you’ll see at Norfolk International Airport to the love-inspired art pieces found in the city, you’ll be literally surrounded by LOVE during your time here. Surely you’ve heard the popular campaign slogan, Virginia is for lovers. It was created more than 50 years ago by what’s now the Virginia Tourism Corporation and has become one of the most beloved and iconic slogans in the world. More than just a slogan, the campaign has evolved into more than 300 LOVEworks signs across the Commonwealth as well as a state of mind that Virginia is for all lovers of travel—including business travel—and Virginia is for all. Be sure to get a team photo in front of one of Norfolk’s LOVEworks while you’re here.

Previous Post Next Post

07 February 2023

7 Ways to Achieve Your Professional Wellness Goals in Norfolk

Many people are accustomed to making New Year’s resolutions in their personal lives, but what about in our day-to-day professional lives? Are you feeling overly stressed or experiencing burnout? Are you lacking a work/life balance? Do you find yourself running low on energy during the workday? We’ve come up with seven ideas to reduce stress, find a better balance and increase energy and wellness in the new year, no matter if you work in Norfolk or you’re here on business. All these ideas offer benefits to your personal and professional life, and they’re all available in Norfolk.

Finding a Work/Life Balance

We all know a good balance of work and life is healthy and makes life more enjoyable, but it’s not just nice to find that balance; it’s critical. According to Calm’s 2023 Workplace Mental Health Trends Report, 50 percent of employees say that work stress impacts their personal lives and relationships with family and friends, as well as their relationship with themselves. Here are some ideas for finding that optimal balance in Norfolk:

1. Step away from your computer throughout the day.

Elizabeth River Trail | Image courtesy of Downtown Norfolk Council

No, really. Those emails will still be there when you return. If you’re in a rut, it’s OK to walk around the office or even go outside for a few minutes to refresh. Take a leisurely stroll along the Elizabeth River Trail, Norfolk’s 10.5-mile walkable and bikeable path weaving through several charming neighborhoods, or grab a caffeinated beverage at one of Norfolk’s delightful coffee shops to re-energize.

2. Take your lunch break.

How many days have you eaten lunch at your desk and then started to crash in the afternoon? Use your lunchtime to re-energize, whether it’s browsing one of Norfolk’s treasured museums (some offer free entry!) to stimulate your visual senses or meeting up with a colleague for a business lunch you’ll both enjoy.

Prioritizing Health and Fitness During the Workday

It’s great to start the new year off right: sticking to a workout routine you love, meal prepping on the weekends, perhaps even participating in Dry January. But, what happens when we travel for work or simply fall out of our regular routine? (Hey, it happens.) Here’s how you can get back on track:

3. Try a new healthy restaurant.

Here in Norfolk, we take our culinary scene pretty seriously, even when it comes to healthy eating options. Sacrificing unhealthy food doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. We’ve got gluten-free Southern cuisine, feel-good comfort food, acai and poke bowls, plus all the soups, salads and smoothies you could want—zero guilt included.

4. Stay fit in creative ways.

Obstacle course on Elizabeth River Trail

Some of the most sustainable fitness routines are the ones that spark fun and enjoyment. Whether you live here and get to experience these activities all the time or you’re looking for a way to stay fit during your convention, we’ve got more than a few fitness ideas to keep you intrigued, from indoor rock climbing and goat yoga to kayaking or getting your steps in while exploring a gigantic battleship.

5. Stay dry.

Practice Self Care

Most people understand and appreciate the benefits of a self-care routine. (Psst—If you haven’t started one for yourself yet, you’re missing out.) Feeling our best or even looking our best can rejuvenate and re-energize, boost confidence and provide the motivation needed to work hard and play hard.

6. Treat yourself to a spa appointment.

Get Well Soon, @danica_royster, Instagram

You don’t have to dedicate an entire day at the spa (although wouldn’t that be nice?). You can incorporate self care in your routine with whatever amount of time you have. Book a spa appointment for a lunchtime mani/pedi or after-work facial or massage.

7. Shop (just not until you drop).

Retail therapy, especially during a lunch hour when stores aren’t crowded, can invigorate your senses and put you in a happier mood. Pick up a gift for a friend, family member or colleague. Or, simply pick up something for you! Here’s a list of local stores we love.

Previous Post Next Post

23 January 2023

d'Art Center

Wandering through the halls and gallery spaces at d’Art Center is like stepping into the minds of multiple artists at work. In one room, color coordinated rods of glass rest neatly in small containers, waiting to be turned into delicate glass oysters. In another room, dried flowers in all sizes, shapes and faded colors chaotically fill the space, protruding from vases and hanging from shelving in an erratic yet oddly organized fashion. And in yet another room, large-scale paintings of a lush forest and a tropical sunset demand attention with bold colors and jewel-like depth.

“It’s cool to see an artist take a thought and turn it into something they create and sell as their livelihood,” says Tricia Hudson, executive director for d’Art. Hudson witnesses this creative process quite regularly as d’Art is home to seven resident artists and 23 associate artists, meaning new pieces are constantly being created, showcased and sold within d’Art’s walls.

Along with rotating pieces from area artists, d’Art hosts nine national exhibitions annually. An open call process encourages artists from across the country to submit their pieces for consideration, and Gallery Manager & Center Curator Amanda Bradley curates the shows with a juror in a blind jury process.

Each exhibition is unique and is typically based on a different theme—whether it be African American art, Native American portraiture or all-women artists for Women’s History Month—or based on a medium. To celebrate and promote each exhibition, d’Art hosts a free public reception, welcoming guests inside to get acquainted with the latest and greatest pieces to illuminate the walls.

From d’Beginning

d’Art (which stands for Dockside Art Review of Tidewater) started in 1986 as a community arts center. Modeled after the Torpedo Factory Art Center in Alexandria, the Center provided working artists with affordable, short-term studio space. It was originally positioned on College Place in Freemason and in 2005 relocated to the Selden Arcade Downtown where it remained for a decade. In 2015, an electrical-related explosion Downtown impacted the Selden Arcade, destroying art pieces that were the livelihood of the individuals who created them.

After some recovery and revitalization, d’Art reemerged in the NEON District at the Duke Grace Building before finding a forever home in its current space: the historical Atlantic Permanent Building, also in the NEON District. The 2,200-square-foot gallery features art around every corner, nook and cranny. Even a historical bank vault has been transformed into a cozy space for solo exhibitions.

Hudson says they’re excited to be part of the NEON District and all of the new development that’s happening around them, as they hope the influx of new people and businesses will help to grow their network.

Connecting d’Art With d’Community

As part of d’Art’s mission, they proudly serve the greater Hampton Roads area by connecting the community with the visual arts through a number of ways.

They offer youth art education through classes and workshops, plus summer and winter camps. d’Art works with Title I schools in the area to ensure that art remains accessible to everyone. To stay current with today’s art trends and techniques, d’Art is home to a technology lab featuring a 3D printer, TVs, stylus and more, enabling them to host camps, classes and workshops focused on animation in science and technology.

Their adult art education classes are just as exciting. The Center collaborates with regional business Boards and Moore on charcuterie-building classes and hosts potters to their ceramics studio where pieces can be created, glazed and fired right on site. They aim to keep prices at a reasonable point, with most classes ranging between $25–$50, again aiming to make art—and art education—accessible to all.

More to d’scover

In addition to a great selection of ever-changing art, the center is home to a retail shop inside the gallery. Patrons will find a carefully curated selection of items, all created by artisans both local and across the country. There’s cheeky, hand-poured candles from St. Louis, mother of pearl frames and serving platters, art-focused books and globally sourced jewelry that gives women creators access to fair wages.

There’s also more events planned in the space like wine tasting complete with a silent auction.

Finally, the Center is opening their space for event rentals complete with d’Art’s onsite staff, full access to the space’s catering kitchen, onsite and offsite parking, sound and projection equipment and adjustable gallery lighting. They can accommodate events for up to 200 guests. There’s even the option for artist-led group activities and demonstrations for an additional fee. From private receptions to elegant corporate soirees, any event will be elevated with d’Art’s dramatic architecture, dedicated staff and, of course, the beautiful artwork that’s remained the heartbeat of the organization for the past 36 years.

Previous Post Next Post

VisitNorfolk’s Champion of Hospitality Awards for National Travel and Tourism Week 2023

Peter G. Decker, Jr. Hospitality Associate of the Year

Ricky White, Front Desk ManagerNauticus

Champion of Hospitality Winners

Brian Brinson, OwnerLizard Cafe

Yvan Devulder, OwnerLa Brioche

Ashtyn Greene, FounderVirginia Cheese Company

Hampton Roads Transit Light Rail Operators

Isiah Harrington, Restaurant EngineerHilton Norfolk The Main

Mary Kelly, Director of Sales and MarketingGlass Light Hotel & Gallery

Matthias Maihoefer, Executive ChefHilton Norfolk The Main

Carolina MannNorfolk Waterside Marriott

Norfolk International Airport Volunteer Ambassadors

Kevin Ordonez, Owner Alkaline

Nancy Pearce, Sales AssistantSleep Inn at Lake Wright—Norfolk Airport

Basil Reynolds, Gallery HostChrysler Museum of Art

Anne Tauro, Catering Sales ManagerSleep Inn at Lake Wright—Norfolk Airport

John Vavrek, Server/Multiple PositionsGrain at Hilton Norfolk The Main

You May Also Like

A Locals' Guide to St. Patrick's Day

Activities for Scouts in Norfolk

Activities for Small Meeting and Professional Groups

Group Tours of Norfolk and Portsmouth, Virginia

Norfolk Organizations Excelling in Inclusivity

Church Street Jazz Series

Eggleston Garden Center and Farmers Market

You May Also Like

A Locals' Guide to St. Patrick's Day

Activities for Scouts in Norfolk

Activities for Small Meeting and Professional Groups

Group Tours of Norfolk and Portsmouth, Virginia

Norfolk Bakeries Specializing in Wedding Cakes

You May Also Like

A Locals' Guide to St. Patrick's Day

Activities for Scouts in Norfolk

Activities for Small Meeting and Professional Groups

Group Tours of Norfolk and Portsmouth, Virginia

Eleanor's Norfolk

The Books

The Bottles

The Events

The Community Activism

You May Also Like

A Locals' Guide to St. Patrick's Day

Activities for Scouts in Norfolk

Activities for Small Meeting and Professional Groups

Group Tours of Norfolk and Portsmouth, Virginia

April 2023 Events Guide

OngoingBarry Art Museum

OngoingBarry Art Museum

OngoingBaron and Ellin Gordon Art GAlleries

April 1Waterside District

April 1Sky’s the Limit Yoga

April 2Waterside District

April 4–9, April 18–23Harbor Park

April 6Harrison Opera House

April 6The NorVa

April 7Chartway Arena

April 8The Norva

April 9The Norva

Through April 9Chrysler Hall

April 14–16Chrysler Hall

April 15Virginia Zoo

April 15Waterside District

April 15The NorVa

April 20–23Scope Arena

April 20, April 22Scope and Town Point Park

April 22Elizabeth River Trail

April 22Sky’s the Limit Yoga Co.

April 22Chartway Arena

April 22Chrysler Hall

April 28–30Chrysler Hall

April 29Chartway Arena

Through April 30Nauticus

You May Also Like

A Locals' Guide to St. Patrick's Day

Activities for Scouts in Norfolk

Activities for Small Meeting and Professional Groups

Group Tours of Norfolk and Portsmouth, Virginia

Maison Soleil

Ricky White, Front Desk Manager
Nauticus

Brian Brinson, Owner
Lizard Cafe

Yvan Devulder, Owner
La Brioche

Ashtyn Greene, Founder
Virginia Cheese Company

Isiah Harrington, Restaurant Engineer
Hilton Norfolk The Main

Mary Kelly, Director of Sales and Marketing
Glass Light Hotel & Gallery

Matthias Maihoefer, Executive Chef
Hilton Norfolk The Main

Carolina Mann
Norfolk Waterside Marriott

Kevin Ordonez, Owner
Alkaline

Nancy Pearce, Sales Assistant
Sleep Inn at Lake Wright—Norfolk Airport

Basil Reynolds, Gallery Host
Chrysler Museum of Art

Anne Tauro, Catering Sales Manager
Sleep Inn at Lake Wright—Norfolk Airport

John Vavrek, Server/Multiple Positions
Grain at Hilton Norfolk The Main

Ongoing
Barry Art Museum

Ongoing
Barry Art Museum

Ongoing
Baron and Ellin Gordon Art GAlleries

April 1
Waterside District

April 1
Sky’s the Limit Yoga

April 2
Waterside District

April 4–9, April 18–23
Harbor Park

April 6
Harrison Opera House

April 6
The NorVa

April 7
Chartway Arena

April 8
The Norva

April 9
The Norva

Through April 9
Chrysler Hall

April 14–16
Chrysler Hall

April 15
Virginia Zoo

April 15
Waterside District

April 15
The NorVa

April 20–23
Scope Arena

April 20, April 22
Scope and Town Point Park

April 22
Elizabeth River Trail

April 22
Sky’s the Limit Yoga Co.

April 22
Chartway Arena

April 22
Chrysler Hall

April 28–30
Chrysler Hall

April 29
Chartway Arena

Through April 30
Nauticus