Source: BrightBoldBeautiful.com
If you love handmade…..
If you love shopping local…..
If you love supporting local artists…..
If you love getting/giving a gift that people will remember….
If you love finding the most unique gifts (HINT: Valentine’s!)…….
Then you are going to absolutely LOVE Viva La Local!
We have been working on this event for quite some time and there are lots of exciting things to share, and now you’re invited to Richmond’s premier event for local artisans. It’s a one day Valentine’s Day pop up featuring your favorite Etsy shops and other local artisans in Richmond, Virginia. The day will be filled with photo booth fun, a Twitter contest and shopping galore. Attendance is free and you will enjoy visiting the artisans behind their creations while you browse unique paintings, unusual jewelry, customized clothing, fun party planning and entertainment ideas, budget-conscious decorating ideas, and lots of other offerings.
This is not a local show just for women – it’s for men too. It’s the perfect place to find that special Valentine’s Day gift, anniversary, birthday, or ‘just because I love you’ gift!
More than 15 prizes will be awarded over the course of the day, so come on down to LaDiff in Richmond, Virginia on February 8, 2014. Check out the website, Viva La Local, for participating artists. I’ll see you there too, where I’ll be tweeting every hour about door prizes, artists, and much more.
Who Will be There?
You and lots of your best friends, spouse, significant other, and other locals will be there! And here are just a few of the local artisans you can visit in person and check out what they have to offer:
Laura Trevey (Bright Bold & Beautiful)
Click here to see a list of more artisans who will be exhibiting.
As always, remember to SHOP LOCAL!
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High end homeowners are strong targets for contractor fraud. Their most frequent question is “who do I call?” Most homeowners spend hours trying to find a contractor to do work for them. They ask neighbors and friends for referrals, and take it on faith that these contractors are reputable, licensed, and insured. Here is the moment when people can become victims of contractor fraud.
Here are 10 ways you can protect yourself:
- Only use contractors who are licensed. Ask to see their documentation, and check with the state to confirm their status. Go to www.dpor.virginia.gov or call 804-367-8511.
- Check to make sure the contractor is insured. They should have general liability, workers comp, and property damage coverage. Make sure the certificate is current.
- Do not utilize contractors who approach you. They may offer special deals, or have leftover materials to do the project at a discounted price. It’s a good guess to say that we have all been approached by people to take down a tree or seal an asphalt driveway. The liability is yours if you let an unlicensed, uninsured contractor on your property, and something bad happens.
- Estimates for the work should always be submitted in writing. Make sure that the scope of the project is laid out in detail covering what is to be done, what materials are going to be used, etc. Do not accept a verbal bid from a contractor.
- Any contract should be reviewed carefully before signing. Confirm the details of the project are in order, along with the payment schedule, estimated completion date, etc. Make sure the warranty for the work is also listed, and that the contract includes clean up. Do not let yourself be pressured into signing a contract. If they are in a hurry to get the deal done, watch out! By law, you have three business days to cancel any contract after it is signed (“Cooling Off Rule”).
- Communicate any questions or concerns to the contractor verbally and in writing. Any changes to the scope of the project also should be put in writing, and added to the contract. This protects the homeowner and the contractor from misunderstandings. There may be a fee attached to some changes depending on the size of the change, or what stage of the project you are in.
- Avoid paying a lot of money up front. Some contractors may require a deposit. The federal government typically recommends that you shouldn’t pay more than 30% of the proposed price of the job in advance. Typically, this can be negotiated. Make sure the payments follow the construction schedule, and that your payments do not get ahead of the progress of the project. Tie payments to the completion of certain tasks, and not to a specific time frame.
- For larger projects, it’s better to use a credit card instead of cash. The credit card company will back the purchase and can help in the event of a dispute. If you are using a construction loan, or insurance company money, make sure that those funds are disbursed to you, and not the contractor. Also, do not let the contractor negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf.
- 9. For large projects, you may want to bring in an independent inspector to make sure the work was done to code, as well as to your satisfaction. A roof replacement may look nice from the ground, but may let in a slow leak that may not be caught until after the warranty is up.
- Use a trusted organization for contractor referrals. The Better Business Bureau (804-648-0016) and Home Connection Partners (804-855-1415) are strong advocates for homeowners, and help protect you and your largest investment, your home.
If you have been a victim of contractor fraud and think it’s money down the drain, don’t lose hope. The Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation has a fund to compensate victims of contractor fraud. To be eligible for these funds, you must have a legal judgment against the contractor, and apply to receive reimbursement of your loss, up to $20,000.
There comes a time when everyone needs a contractor. These ten ways and a little effort can help protect you and ensure a positive experience.
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We’ve got great discounts waiting for you in 2013 right here on Richmondmom.com – and there are no gimmicks, fees, registration requirements, or hidden costs! You can save money and get great deals with our featured advertisers on our Savvy Saver card.
Hundreds of Richmond moms, dads, grandparents, friends, and family love our Savvy Saver Card and there are plenty of good reasons – check them out and you’ll love them too.
Dozens of Richmond moms and dads have already taken advantage of great savings with their card. You can easily download a copy here to use all year long, and/or request a tri-fold card by mail by clicking here and provide us with your mailing information. If you’re already on our 2012 list, you will automatically receive a new 2013 card – however, if your address has changed please email us at [email protected] as soon as possible with your new information. 2013 cards are being mailed in early January.
Wondering why you should request your own Savvy Saver card?
Here are some fantastic reasons for you to consider:
Hayes & Fisk offers a complimentary session fee valued at $150.
Real Life Studios offers $150 off a Real Life Birthday Party.
Get 10% off 2 or more custom window treatments at Sewinit’ where you’ll also find duvets, pillows, monogrammed items, accessories, and more.
The Science Museum of Virginia has a “Buy One Get One Free Friday” offer on Savvy Saver.
Core Kids Academy offers 50% off one session (8 week term) for babies classes (10-18 month old class).
Great Wolf Lodge offers 20% off best available room rates and spa services. Code “RICH230A” online or at (800) 551-9653. Restrictions may apply in peak periods
No enrollment fee for tutoring; buy 3 sessions, 4th free at College Nannies & Tutors.
Hip to be Round makes clothes and accessories affordable and you can save an additional $15 off a $75 purchase with your card.
No registration fee ($25 value) for new plan registrants, use code “RICMOM” at www.va529.com.
Tuckaway waives registration fees for new enrollment.
Romp n’ Roll offers discounts on play-based early- learning classes (Gym, Art, Music, and more): $10 off 3-month enrollment (limit one discount per year).
The Wine Loft offers 20% off Monday nights for Mom’s Night Out.
Dream Dinners is even easier when you use code DDANY102013 for 10% off any order of 36 servings or more. One time use only.
Gundlach is there when you need them with a 10% discount on all repairs. Not valid with any other offer.
All Fired Up gives a 10% discount off walk-in projects.
Richmond Rocks and the Richmond Rocks Spooky Sequel children’s book: Free shipping on any signed copy. ONLY through kate@ richmondmom.com; excludes retail stores & online sales.
See clearly with Virginia Eye Institute’s offer of 30% discount off eyeglasses, sunglasses & accessories and 10% off contact lenses. Cannot be combined with other vision/ optical plans or other discounts/ promotions.
Brain Balance – Learn more about Brain Balance at any free Parent Seminar “Reconnecting Disconnected Kids” & get $50 off evaluation.
$10 off a luxurious Murad Signature Facial at Massage Envy awaits on your Savvy Saver card.
Virginia Rep Children’s Theatre of Virginia – check Richmondmom.com for shows and special offers throughout the year.
Present this card for a free one week pass at American Family Fitness.
Mom’s Treehouse offers 20% off 1st time fitness program purchase and $25 off any Mom’s Treehouse Host-Your-Party rental (888) 232-2450.
You will also find great services at these local businesses and schools:
Gardner Grins: Excellence in Orthodontics
Leave a comment below and let us know what you love most about your Savvy Saver card. Let us know what you’ve used your card for and how much you saved. We’d love to know how much our Richmond moms, dads, grandparents, and friends are saving!
Richmondmom.com Savvy Saver Discounts are offered by advertisers on Richmondmom.com
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Would you like to save $25 by opening a savings account for your child’s future education? How about getting free admission for one to the Science Museum of Virginia, or 1/2 price tickets to the theatre? Maybe you’d like to get 10% off new fashions for your home, or save $10 on a facial. We’ve got great discounts waiting for you right here – and there are no gimmicks, fees, registration requirements, or hidden costs!
Hundreds of Richmond moms love our Savvy Saver Card and there are plenty of good reasons – check them out and you’ll love them too.
If you don’t have your card yet, be sure to visit this link to download a copy and request a tri-fold card by mail here. Dozens of Richmond moms and dads have already taken advantage of great savings with their card.
Wondering why you should request your own Savvy Saver card?
Here are some fantastic reasons for you to consider:
Hayes & Fisk offers a complementary session fee valued at $150.
Real Life Studios offers $150 off a Real Life Birthday Party.
Get 10% off 2 or more custom window treatments at Sewinit’ where you’ll also find duvets, pillows, monogrammed items, accessories, and more.
The Science Museum of Virginia has a “Buy One Get One Free Friday” offer on Savvy Saver.
Core Kids Academy offers 50% off one session (8 week term) for babies classes.
Great Wolf Lodge gives an incredible 20% off best available room rates and spa services.
Enrollment fee is waived for tutoring and you can buy 3 sessions and get the 4th one free at College Nannies & Tutors.
Hip to be Round makes clothes and accessories affordable and you can save an additional $15 off a $75 purchase with your card.
Save $25 registration fee when you enroll in Virginia College Savings Plan 529 – get your card to get the code.
Tuckaway waives registration fees for new enrollment.
Spirited Art offers loads of fun with 20% off any adult class using your Savvy Saver code.
Enjoy 1/2 price children’s tickets (limit 4 per show) at Theatre IV.
Eat healthy and delicious food with 5% off catering services at Green Monkey Catering or 10% off gourmet gift baskets.
The Wine Loft offers 20% off Monday nights for Mom’s Night Out.
Dream Dinners is even easier when you use the 10% off discount on any order of 36 servings or more.
Gundlach is there when you need them with a 10% discount on all repairs.
Richmond Rocks and you can get FREE shipping on any signed copy only through [email protected] with your card.
See clearly with Virginia Eye Institute’s offer of 30% off eyeglasses, sunglasses and accessories and 10% off contact lenses when you use your Savvy Saver card.
Enjoy a performance at Barksdale Theatre with $5 off each Barksdale performance ticket (limit 8 tickets).
Mediation and resolving issues is easier and less expensive with Mosaic Mediations and you can get 20% off all mediation packages.
Just present your Savvy Saver card and get a free week pass at any American Family Fitness.
When it comes to food, RELAY makes it easy and you get $5 off orders of $50 or more with the code on your card.
Brain Balance includes a $50 discount on evaluations when you take advantage of their free Parent Seminar.
$10 off a luxurious Murad Signature Facial at Massage Envy awaits on your Savvy Saver card.
Mom’s Treehouse is rocking with fun with 20% off first time fitness program purchase and $25 off any Mom’s Treehouse Host-Your-Party Rental.
Leave a comment below and let us know what you love most about your Savvy Saver card. Let us know what you’ve used your card for and how much you saved. We’d love to know how much our Richmond moms, dads, grandparents, and friends are saving!
Richmondmom.com Savvy Saver Discounts are offered by advertisers on Richmondmom.com
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Who knew that ugly chartreuse wall with red trim would end up winning you a prize?
In October 2011, S&S Painting announced they are looking for ‘the worst interior wall color in Richmond’ and are offering the winner of this contest a $500 gift certificate towards the repainting of their room.
“We have seen some pretty awful colors over the years,” said S&S co-owners Stacey Spear and Valerie Abbott. “And we know the difference choosing the right color can make. Finding the worst wall color in Richmond will be an interesting scavenger hunt for us. Repainting the space will give us and the lucky homeowner a great feeling of satisfaction.”
The contest deadline is December 31, 2011 and the winner will be announced on their Web site in mid-January 2012. Contest details are available on the company’s Web site: www.sspaintingllc.com.
S&S Painting, LLC of Mechanicsville, VA is a women-owned and operated interior painting firm that services the Greater Richmond area. The all-women crew was selected by Style Network in 2011 to paint for the award-winning show Clean House: Messiest Home in the Country.
Established in 2004, S&S Painting, LLC offers a wide variety of interior painting services, including faux and decorative finishes, murals and drywall repair. For more information, contact Stacey Spear at [email protected] or visit http://www.sspaintingllc.com.
Design your rooms like a professional with MyDesignGuide.com.
Richmond moms just love unique, interesting and dynamic home design – from the outside in. And MyDesignGuide.com has lots to offer with furniture arrangements, accessory purchases, paint selection, and more.
Are you looking for a new theme for a girl’s room, or perhaps a whole series on How to be Your Own Interior Designer and design like a pro?
Then you’ll want to visit this incredible website filled with ideas, tips, secrets, and direction on how to design your own home like a professional designer.
You’ll find ideas like:
- using paint to open up a space or make it feel cozier
- using accent colors to punch up color
- finding the perfect bedding, curtains and rugs to bring your designs to life
- creating a focal point
- making a room feel bigger
- creating energy in a room
These are just a sampling of the hundreds of ideas you’ll find on the website. Visit MyDesignGuide.com and learn more. Let us know what you find that you absolutely love so we can share it with our readers.
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Sewinit! is the way to go if you want the beautiful look of custom curtains but don’t want to spend designer prices. 
Here’s how to create a great look for your windows without spending a fortune:
1) You choose your design, either from the Sewinit.com site or from a photograph you’ve seen.
2) Karen Curcio will measure your windows and tell you how much fabric to purchase.
3) Once you’ve gotten your fabric to Sewinit, your curtains are underway and will be back to you typically within 2-3 weeks! That is several weeks less than most Richmond drapery businesses.
Want a few more money-saving hints? Using curtain styles that are on boards or using knobs, like the one in peach/plaid above, will save money because you don’t have to purchase curtain rods, which are often quite expensive. And, you can use your Richmondmom.com Savvy Saver Card for 20% off, but you must let Karen know prior to placing your order.
Visit Sewinit’s Facebook page and like them, too!
We think this is too cute–had to share. Our gurus at MyDesignGuide.com took this tiny little bedroom and turned it into a sanctuary for one lucky little girl. Click on the MyDesignGuide.com Blog to read more.
MyDesignGuide.com is an advertiser of Richmondmom.com.
In particular, we love the home staging design option and MyDesignGuide.com gift certificates. What a great way to help a friend get their home looking the best it can at the lowest price-tag.
MyDesignGuide.com is an advertiser of Richmondmom.com.
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