Chris created a theme around her shabby chic and pink ideas to celebrate the upcoming birth. With a cupcake table,  baby shoes and coordinating ribbons, chalkboard painted silver tray, fabric flowers, buttons, and more unusual “finds” – it was the perfect setting!

Chris ensured that lots of details were woven throughout the party and celebration. Her inspiration continued to grow and grow, and finally it all came together for Kasi. Delicious food was provided by Wild Greens Catering and Frostings cupcakes.

Click here to see more photos and descriptions from Celebrations at Home – you’ll love the details!

The Dream Baby Shower contest was sponsored by Hip to Be Round, MEDARVA Stony Point Surgery Center and many other local businesses donated fantastic gifts for our winner. Our winner was announced at the Hip to be Round Expectant Girls Night Out where we had delicious food and fun.

Congratulations again to Kasi and thanks to everyone who helped make this event a huge success!

More About Celebrations at Home

Chris Nease is the owner and party stylist for Celebrations at Home. With over 15 years of experience, Chris is recognized as an entertaining expert, and creative party stylist.   Although she earned her degree in Fashion Merchandising, she parlayed her love of food and visual display into home entertaining and tabletop styling.  For years she has designed parties with her unique and accessible style.

In addition to being creative director of Celebrations At Home, Chris shares her expertise through freelance contributions and has been published in Woman’s World, Cottages & Bungalows, Yum Food & Fun for Kids, HGTV.com, and she authored a chapter on holiday party planning in the bookClutterbugs Guide to an Organized Christmas.  Chris also volunteers her time to Operation Shower, a non-profit organization providing group baby showers to wives of our deployed service men.

Chris Nease

Wild Greens, owned by chef Lisa Granger, is the perfect place for holiday catering – or any other time you need something special for family and guests. Lisa specializes in delicious, organic catering with a focus on healthy cuisine and unique offerings.

But don’t let that fool you – she can also create a traditional catering event with all of the ‘traditional homemade’ foods you love too.

All menus are prepared using fresh, organic, natural ingredients from local farmers, farmers markets, organic grocers and other valued partners. Since catered events are very special, it is important for Lisa to work directly with you to determine your personal preferences. She will work closely with you to ensure your special event is uniquely you.

Lisa also caters corporate breakfasts, brunches, and lunches too. Adding one of her incredible mile-high cakes to your order is all that’s needed for a spectacular event. Everything is prepared fresh daily.

If you’re already looking to the holidays, or if you’re just browsing around for something special for a tailgating party, cocktail party, birthday event, or a gathering of friends, give her a call. Lisa will help you create a unique and delicious menu for your catered events. Then, sit back, relax and enjoy!

Contact Lisa at 804.740.6659 or visit her Wild Greens Catering website.

(Lisa is also the owner of Green Monkey School Lunches where you will find healthy, delicious school lunches for some area schools. If your school is not on the delivery list, school lunches can be ordered through RELAY foods in Richmond and Charlottesville. Be sure and try her signature Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip, or Chocolate Chocolate Chip cookies on RELAY too).

Wild Greens Catering is an advertiser on Richmondmom.com

Wild Greens Catering is Richmond’s catering source when it comes to fresh, natural food that is all made with meticulous attention to detail. And now, Wild Greens Catering is making an incredibly delicious offer for clients from now through August 31, 2012!

With each catering order of $150 (excluding tax, tip and delivery) or more, you will also receive a complementary Wild Greens Signature Dessert Tray for 10 people!  

This dessert tray includes all housemade specialty desserts. Peanut butter cookies, chocolate chocolate cookies, chocolate dipped strawberries, and mini cheesecakes are just some of the possibilities!

The dessert tray normally sells for $45 but you receive it complimentary with your order. If you’d like to increase the size of the tray to include more, you can add just $30 and get a larger tray for 16-20.

But order soon because this deal is only good for orders placed and delivered during July or August. Just mention this offer when ordering. Call 804.740.6659 to place your order.

This is the perfect solution for a kid’s birthday party or an upcoming event. Celebrate end of summer or back to school and leave the work to Wild Greens Catering.

About Wild Greens

Wild Greens Catering is owned by Lisa Granger who also owns Green Monkey School Lunches. Wild Greens caters all types of events including corporate lunches and events, picnics, weddings, birthdays, celebrations and more. Whether you’re searching for the perfect traditional natural turkey club, a chicken Caesar salad, a simple wrap, or something a little more adventurous, Wild Greens Catering has lots to offer.

And they have an expansive menu of options too.

Fresh chicken satay with peanut sauce, beef fajitas with fresh toppings, Moroccan chicken with couscous and toasted slivered almonds, and much more are available for lunches. Their breakfast/brunch menu includes fresh housemade scones and muffins, quiche, and other delicious and healthy choices.

Delicious Wild Greens breakfast platters

Be sure and include an array of icy cold beverages with your catering order, including Fiji Spring Water, Bottled Seltzer, Root Beer, Natural Sodas and more.

Click here for a sample menu and call owner/chef Lisa Granger to discuss your specific needs and requests.

Give Wild Greens Catering a call at 804.740.6659 to discuss your catering needs and they will customize a menu to perfectly suit your special event and budget.

Visit them on Facebook to see some of their delicious catering options.

Wild Greens Catering is an advertiser on Richmondmom.com

Here’s how it works:

1. Vote here by using this link: You’ll see  nominations below, and you may vote once per person only between 6/15-6/26/12.
2. Celebrate with us at the Expectant Girls Night Out at Hip to Be Round in Carytown 6/27/12 from 6:30 pm-8:00 pm where we’ll announce the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd prize winners. Each nominee may bring 1-2 guests and celebrate with us, RSVP HERE.
3. The Grand Prize Winner will be presented with her gifts and will be given invitations from Dawn Correspondence, catering by Wild Greens Catering, cupcakes by Frostings, and coordination and favors from Celebrations at Home with Chris Nease for her very own shower to be held by 8/30!*

*please note: blackout dates occur in July; actual shower date to be scheduled with Chris Nease of Celebrations at Home for an optimal, amazing shower!

And the nominees are:

Adrien Poulos                                                 Click this link to vote for for any nominee

I am nominating my daughter Adrien who is a wonderful nurse & a great person.She cares so deeply that not to long ago I called to have her meet me in Carytown. “I can’t Mom, I’m baking,” she said. She & another nurse were whipping up different treats to help a Mother who’s daughter had been in the hospital for almost a year, waiting on a new heart. The Mother wanted to have a big party for her 18th birthday & celebrate receiving the heart.  Adrien & her friend wrapped all the treats, returned to the hospital, then sold them to the night shift. This after working 12hrs. All of the money went to the Mom.  Adrien was the type of child that would take her mittens off & give them to the homeless person @ the corner. She & Jason had a true Richmond wedding & now are expecting our first grandchild. I’m so happy that I’m going to be Grandma. My little girl is all grown up & I would Love for her to have this very special “Dream Baby Shower” to celebrate her becoming a Mom!~ Thank you~

Alexa Glover                                  Click this link to vote for for any nominee         

Alexa is a sweet lady that I’ve known most of my life. The past few years we’ve become better f riends and I know she’s there for me and I’m there for her if we ever need anything. She went through a very rough, unhappy short marriage & sadly suffered miscarriages. She will be 35 in January and recently found out she’s due with a little one in December 2012! She had cramps and spotting early on and was nervous obviously. Thankfully, the baby is healthy and mama is fine! Up until this point, she’s only had fur-babies. She resides with her awesome parents and they’re all excited about welcoming this blessing into their home this winter!

Alison Fallecker                            Click this link to vote for for any nominee         

Alison Fallecker is very deserving of this year’s 2012 Baby Shower! Not that I am biased or anything, being her husband, lol. But, seriously, I have watched my awesome “warrior-chick” wife handle this pregnancy with grace, even when it wasn’t easy. She has maintained a positive mental attitude, even while experiencing constant nausea, zero appetite, and hormonal mood swings. Through it all, she still manages to work her day job, work at our 2 home-based businesses, take care of me, and still keep up with all of the mundane housework. She is SO excited to become a Mom for the first time, as it has been one of her dreams for a long time. Finally, the biggest reason that you should vote for Alison is because of her heart. She spends most of her days selflessly serving other people & taking care of their needs. This would be a huge blessing & a great way to let her know that the people she serves day after day really appreciate all that she does for them. Thanks for voting for Alison!

Alison Griffith                                                          Click this link to vote for for any nominee

I would like to nominate Alison Swindell Griffith for the Dream Baby Shower. Alison deserves the shower more than anyone I know. She is a kind hearted, give everything you have type person. She has a beautiful toddler right now and is expecting this fall. She is a career mom who focuses her busy life around her child, her volunteer firefighter and shift working husband, and her community. She spends every moment she can sharing her parenting skills and love for children with a niece as well as her own son and baby on the way. To top it off she just graduated college working on classes, while working, being mom, wife, and an active community member. Alison deserves this honor and would represent Hip to Be Round very well!

Amelia Nelson                                                    Click this link to vote for for any nominee       

Amelia is 26 years old and this is her first pregnancy.  She moved to Richmond from Alabama several years ago, leaving behind friends and family.  She has been serving in a restaurant for the last 4 years while also holding a second job in retail.  Amelia selflessly decided to put her school career on hold while her husband of 7 months had returned to school.  Even though they had planned to wait until he graduated college in 2 years, God had other plans.  Currently, she is 17 weeks pregnant, juggling 2 jobs, and helping support her husband who also serves in a restaurant while attending VCU full time.  Amelia deserves to win the dream baby shower because despite all of the setbacks in her life she struggles, perseveres and always puts others ahead of herself.  I’d like to make things easier for and give her an unforgettable baby shower.

Amy Munn                                       Click this link to vote for for any nominee         

Amy is a terrific mom. She is pregnant with her second child. She has a 3 year old daughter who lights up her and her husband’s lives and is a joy to be around. Amy is employed outside the home and does an awesome job of juggling work and family responsibilities. She and her husband recently bought a home and they keep very busy. Amy cares deeply for all children and I just want to be able to give her a “dream shower”. So often we forget about those moms having a second child and tend to think they have all that they need. In this case, all of her baby items are from her daughter and her new little boy may need some additional “boy” items! Amy takes great care of herself and her family and is so very cautious about everything she does while she is pregnant. This just shows how protective and loving a mother she is! Please vote for Amy!!

Amy West                                                         Click this link to vote for for any nominee

Because with her first child 9 years ago she was not given a baby shower and she is an amazing mom!  She was a single mom for 8 years who has managed to raise an amazing daughter.  This new baby will be so lucky to have her as its mother!  It will have a fantastic dad as well!  Very lucky child!

Anna Lindstrom                                              Click this link to vote for for any nominee         

Anna is an exceptional caregiver. She has worked at daycares for many years and lives children. After suffering a traumatic ectopic pregnancy a couple of years ago she was limited at her chances for a healthy pregnancy. She was nervous yet estatic about her pregnancy and Anna is anxiously awaiting the arrival of her baby boy!

Antoinette Marie Alvano                    Click this link to vote for for any nominee         

Antoinette Marie Alvano lives in Richmond, VA with her husband Carl.  Antoinette, ( Toni for short) and her husband having been married for over three years. Since Toni was a little girl, she dreamed of having a large family since her biological family is quite small. She married into a large happy and very close Filipino family and she and her husband Carl couldn’t wait to have children. Toni’s love of children inspired her to offer childcare services in addition to her full time business career. While caring for children, it came to light that Toni has a special way with autistic children.  Soon, she was in demand for her kind, intelligent and loving childcare skills with this population of children.  Toni still skypes with some of her previous little ones and their families. Finally Toni and Carl are blessed with a little one of their own on the way. I feel that this pregnancy is so special and Toni is deserving of a wonderful dream baby shower.

Ashley Barry Mason                                                           Click this link to vote for for any nominee         

Ashley is a very fun, and loving mother to her son, Max and has a little girl on the way. She is so giving to her friends and lights up a room with her smile. She works hard to make sure her family has what it needs. She deserving of this because she would do anything for her family and friends!! I am so very lucky to have her as a friend.

Ashley Grizzard                                                    Click this link to vote for for any nominee

Ashley hopes to be a mother who nurtures and inspires a strong body image, a value in education and curiosity, and demonstrates tons of love to her child. She is a very empathetic and giving person who works with the homeless population by day, but also volunteers her time and energy for the area’s festivals and for organizations that raise awareness of eating disorders during her free time. She has helped fundraise for the Eating Disorder Coalition, and been featured on several local news stations in order to promote positive body image.

Ashley has been a resident of the Museum District for the last 4 years, and looks forward to living a healthy and happy parenthood with her partner, Taylor, that involves family, friends, and the community.

Ashley Michelle Robinson                                                         Click this link to vote for for any nominee  

I would like to nominate my fiance Ashley Robinson. She is going to be a first time mom this year and is currently a full time student at VCU. She found out she was pregnant in the middle of spring semester and continued to obtain an excellent GPA upon completion of the semester. Ashley plans on maintaining her full-time status in the fall in the pursuit of a higher education in order to support her new family and plans to graduate on time. She is very involved with the Richmond community and is working towards applying to dental school. She is currently taking summer classes and working part time to save money for the baby. We were recently engaged on our trip to Virginia Beach and cannot wait to begin our new lives together. We are a little strapped for cash with us both being full time students. It would mean the world to her if she received this dream baby shower for her first child. I can think of no one more selfless and deserving than my beautiful wife-to-be Ashley!

Blair Ward                                  Click this link to vote for for any nominee         

Blair has a huge heart for children and even now still babysits in the evenings or weekends so that others can go out. This would be an amazing gift for her as she is always giving of herself. as she and her hubby are very active in the mission field and often sacrifice their needs for others.  Her kindness and compassion towards others are sincerely genuine.  Her gratitude, if she won, would be genuine as well.

Brooke Willey                                    Click this link to vote for for any nominee         

My husband is in the Army and we are 1,200 miles away from home. He will be away at training for the birth of our son and won’t be able to meet him for almost a month after he arrives. It would be a great experience to win a baby shower, since I don’t have any family here to throw one for me.

Casie Welker                                                Click this link to vote for for any nominee

Casie Welker really needs and deserves this baby shower. She us an awesome person, friend and daughter. I know she is going to be a wonderful mother. She has had some tough times this year and one could not imagine how helpful this shower would be for her. She’s a very hard working person with a huge heart. I know if Casie could win this baby shower it would help her tremendously. She would be overjoyed and thankful I’m sure.

Catherine Gholson                                                  Click this link to vote for for any nominee

Cathy is expecting her first baby, a boy named Ryan. Her husband and herself will be celebrating their second year of marriage right around when baby Ryan is due. Cathy has been extremely frugal in buying baby stuff, mostly used, and she’s refurbishing it herself. She’s very active in her church and in VCU sports. I know she’ll raise a very well rounded little man. So this is why I think Cathy should be nominated. And win!

Catherine Whitehurst Grimm                   Click this link to vote for for any nominee         

Catherine is already a phenomenal mother to her son Christian.  As the wife of a youth minister, Catherine is very involved with her church and community. She deserves this baby shower because of her caring and compassionate dedication to her friends and family!!!

Christina Dawkins                                                   Click this link to vote for for any nominee

I believe this mom to be is very deserving of the 2012 Dream Baby Shower.  I am expecting a set of twins, which of course was a great shock.  I am now over the initial shock and trying to get prepared.  I have a 7 year old daughter who is very excited to have new siblings, but not about sharing the room.  I still do not know how to organize the bedroom in the most efficient way.  I work two jobs still and so my time is not in abundance.  Please consider me as your choice.  This will not only help in costs of the twins, but also time I can save to get ready for the new family members.

Crystal Arroyo                            Click this link to vote for for any nominee         

I am nominating Crystal Arroyo because I feel that there is no other person that deserves it more than her. She is a wonderful person with a huge heart. She is always looking for ways to help someone in need. She puts other in front of herself especially if she feels she can do with out. She never turns anyone down and she always encourages people to do better. She has been through so much in her life and she continues to keep faith and have a positive attitude about life. She has been through two miss carriages and this is her first child she is able to hold and I feel she deserves the best. Please nominate her to be the winner cause she is the best candidate for the baby shower.

Crystal Vial                                  Click this link to vote for for any nominee

TRIPLETS! I am nominating my friend, Crystal Vial; a driven physical therapist, dedicated wife and loving mother to her 2 year old son. She is 18 weeks pregnant with TRIPLETS!!! Due to complications in her high risk pregnancy she is on doctors orders not to work and therefore leaving her family on just one salary. Crystal is a wonderful person who is very deserving of this nomination and in need of our help! Please consider her with your vote and thank you!

Danielle Domangue                                                    Click this link to vote for for any nominee 

I would like to nominate expectant mom Danielle Domangue. She is a woman who gave up her life and home in Texas to move to be with the man she loved and the father of her child. She has worked incredibly hard to make a wonderful life for her baby, herself and the father of her child. She works, she takes care of their two dogs and she keeps herself in shape as well as involved with the community so that she can get to know more people and make a true home here. I don’t know anyone more wonderful or deserving of having a gift for their new baby- except Danielle.

Erica Thomas                   Click this link to vote for for any nominee         

She has done a lot for everyone between her fiance’s family and my families. She’s an awesome girl who deserves something for her and her li’l bundle of joy.

Heather Twiddy                                              Click this link to vote for for any nominee

I am a mother of 1 who has been trying for a second for 2 years now. I would like to have a dream baby shower to help with the items you need when having a baby. With my first one, my husband and I both lost our jobs and hit rock bottom – now he is employed and I work part-time. We have made sure for every holiday our daughter does not go without even if that means we do. I know some people have sadder stories or harder times. I just hope to give anything and everything to my children and this will help. Thank you for taking the time to read this.

Hedi Cho                                       Click this link to vote for for any nominee         

Hedi spends so much time dedicated towards the well-being of her son, Cooper.  She chronicles her love for her son in a blog that she started in 2009 and continues highlighting her trips to Wolf Great Lodge, the fears (and relief) of starting day care, and birthday parties that look straight out of a Pinterest profile (you know the ones I’m talking about — those crazy, amazing ones where you’re like, O-M-G.).  All this while maintaining a career.  Wow!  Clearly, she has more than 24 hours in a day.  She is now expecting a daughter, and I am sure she will share just as much love and dedication towards her too.  I just wish she would share the impending baby’s name already.  WHAT IS IT??

Jennie Davis                                            Click this link to vote for for any nominee

Jennie Davis – full of joy, (and increasingly full of Sophia), in her excited anticipation of bringing to this world a wonderful, positive person, is herself most deserving of being voted winner of the Richmondmom.com dream baby shower.  I hereby do nominate her, and invite you to vote for her.

Jennifer Greene                           Click this link to vote for for any nominee         

Wow, I’m not sure there are words special enough for this momma! She is an amazing, mother, wife, best friend, sister, & more! Jennifer has Joshua,7, Rylan,2, a Beautiful Angel baby Jocelynn who would be 3, and a little princess on the way due in September! Jennifer is definitely the rock of the group, no matter what she’s struggling with, she will make it a point that her kids are happy and have everything they want! She will always help you with anything she can! Jennifer has NEVER had a shower even close to what she deserves! With Josh she didn’t have a baby shower, and with Rylan it was all thrown on her last minute to do it all! Jennifer does whatever she can to make everyone around her happy but she doesn’t take the time to make herself happy! Angel baby Jocelynn is watching over her to make sure her sister arrives safely and I think we can all agree the little princess deserves an AMAZING shower! After all she will live in a house of men! Please vote for this deserving mommy.

Jennifer McCord                                        Click this link to vote for for any nominee

Jenni is the hardest working mom I know, and is able to juggle everything while making it look effortless! Jenni has 3 beautiful girls, age 12, 4, and 3. She and her husband, Jonathon, are expecting their first boy in September, and they couldn’t be happier!! They have been hoping for a boy for a long time now, and their dream is finally coming true! Jenni juggles her marriage, her 3 children, volunteering at The Lonesome Dove (which helps to rehabilitate veterans injured in war), all while attending college full-time! She is such an amazing mom and she deserves to have this dream baby shower to get ready for her newest addition to her beautiful family!

Jessica Carwille                                        Click this link to vote for for any nominee

I have had the extreme good fortune of knowing Jessica Carwille.  Not only is she my cousin but my best friend as well.  Jessica is an outstanding individual.  She goes out of her way to help everyone, she works hard for everything she has and has overcome many obstacles in life which have molded her into the AMAZING person she has become.After trying for several years to conceive she and her husband finally “struck gold”.  However, it has come at a rough time in her life, her husband lost his job due to a health condition and they are struggling to stay afloat.  If anyone deserves this dream baby shower it would be her.  I would love for her first pregnancy to be nothing short of AMAZING!  She, her husband and soon to be son or daughter deserve nothing but the best!!

Jessica Clark                                       Click this link to vote for for any nominee         

My much more hip and round older sister, Jessica Clark, just found out that she is having a second child due in January 2013. I have never met a mother as patient and caring as my sister has been to my 2 1/2 year old niece. This supermom has the power in balancing full time employment (at the best brunch restaurant in Richmond, Millie’s), being a full-time student at VCU, a full time wife, and a full time mother… which doesn’t leave much time for herself! Her husband, who is also wonderful, travels a lot for work, so my sister will spend large amounts of time parenting alone. Now that she’s pregnant again, its time for her to be selfish and to take a load off her feet! All you moms raise your pints (of ice cream), and cheers to what makes this world go round! (LOVE YOU sister<3)

Jessica Sirs                                        Click this link to vote for for any nominee

Jessica is a great mom of a wonderful 3 year old boy and is expecting her 2nd child in November.  She works full time at Hopewell Health Care Center and enjoys her work.  Her husband is a 2nd year medical student at VCU here in Richmond. They have a very full schedule but still make time to spend with themselves and their son.  Their family life is very important to them. I can’t think of anyone more deserving to win this 2012 Dream Baby Shower.  It would be a great help to them and a Dream Come True.

Karen Bailey Alexander                                   Click this link to vote for for any nominee         

Karen Alexander, Mom Extraordinaire, deserves this prize because she always gives so freely of her self to others and it would be great to see her showered with what she deserves.She has spent the entirety of her professional life serving others and through her work with organizations like Equality Virginia, DC Rape Crisis Center, Volunteer Emergency Families for Children (VEFC), and through grant work with local government – she gave those in need, a much needed voice and much needed support.As a friend, I can tell you she seeks out ways to make each person in her life – family, friend, stranger- feel important and cared for. If sunshine came in human form, it would be Karen Alexander. She is pure joy. Karen is already a Super-Mom to her son from her husband’s first marriage and the baby she is expecting now might just be the luckiest little person in the world.  What an amazing gift he/she will get having a Mom like Karen. Thank you and Please give Karen your vote!

Kasi Hurley                                 Click this link to vote for for any nominee

Kasi is pregnant with our seventh child after having 5 boys and a girl. My wife is a great mother, she homeschools all of our kids. However she still finds time to teach adult Sunday School each week – and work on the car with me. Yes, even she thinks she’s crazy, but in a good way! My wife is really hoping for another daughter, it’s been ten years since the last girl. She has no girl stuff and due to our last move not a lot baby things. Why should people nominate Kasi?  I guess because, everyone makes a big deal about the first and second child. After the third child people tend to think it’s not a big deal. My wife would like her perhaps last child to be as special as the first! And having old broken and out-dated baby furnishings and borrowed supplies isn’t very special. I love my “Super Mom” Kasi! She needs a moment of celebration to  show her that all pregnancies should be special.

Kelly Clary                                                  Click this link to vote for for any nominee

Even Miracles take a little time “Fairy Godmother from Cinderella”. Kelly found out she was expecting the day after we buried her grandmother, someone she helped care for regularly. She struggled with health issues and had to see various specialists to even become pregnant. With all she has been through to have a baby, she deserves the Dream Baby Shower.

To My Kelly: She is an amazing wife, daughter, woman, aunt, and friend. She is a loving and caring person, tender, and yet so resilient. She is there for you in the good times and the bad and makes you feel that she will keep you safe. Always ready to pitch in and help, provide guidance when needed, and can do so many things. She has struggled with health issues and is so very grateful to be pregnant and is over the moon excited.  She didn’t hesitate to take care of loved ones when they were sick and kisses their boo-boos to help them get well. She is our soft place to fall and our rock. Love, Mom

Kimberly Shackelford                   Click this link to vote for for any nominee

Kim is very deserving of this Dream Baby Shower. She is a giving and supportive person. She always supports loved ones in their lives by contributing to their special days, events and initiatives!

I wish to nominate my daughter, Kim, for Richmondmom’s 2012 Dream Baby Shower. Kim is a dream herself.  Born October 1, 1981, she is as loving and kind as one could be.  She is a hard-working and dedicated individual, working both in the corporate world and running a small business part-time.  She is often asked to donate her time and services to different functions taking place in Richmond and vicinity and she never hesitates.When she found out she was pregnant with Cupcake, (my granddaughter), she knew she would have to cut back on her activities and part-time work.  I know she and her husband would greatly benefit from this giveaway.  Not only would they benefit from it, but in the future, when they are no longer able to use these items, they would generously pass them along to the next person in need.

Kimberly is the MOST DESERVING mother to be for this Baby Shower because she is the best sister I could possibly have. She always looks out for others despite the things that she may have going on with herself.

I am nominating Kim Shackleford for this giveaway because of the phenomenal woman she already is…and the fantastic mother that she is going to be!!  All of Kim’s friends and family members are sooooo excited to see Kim prego!!  This pregnancy is extra special because all of us can remember the stress and anguish Kim, and her husband DeAndre went through due to the miscarriage of their previous pregnancy.  Kim had been trying for a while to get prego…and after only about 3 months of being pregnant, she lost the baby.  How tragic.  But Kim and her hubby handled the best way possible…by sticking by each other’s side and trusting in God.  Well eventually, they became pregnant again…and things have gone by smoothly thus far!!  Kim is a very giving and loving friend and family member.  I can’t think of anyone more deserving of this than my Kimmie!!!

Kristine Stallard                                            Click this link to vote for for any nominee

I am nominating myself because I feel like I am very deserving. I am a fighter, I am kindhearted, and loving. I am currently fighting tooth and nail for my son to be in my custody. Home is where your mom is. I want the best for my children. I don’t have much, the most I offer my children is love, spirit, and a constant reminder that they are the future and nothing can stand in their way if they put their mind to it.

I vote for Kristina Stallard – she is the most caring person i know and would do anything to please her baby . She is great mother to her son and will do anything for her soon to have new born.

Latoya Charity                                        Click this link to vote for for any nominee                                          

I have known Latoya since elementary school and even back then I always knew that she was a very special person with a wonderful heart! Latoya is very much deserving of this award. She is a mother of two young boys who remain on honor roll within school and she is expecting her first daughter in a couple of months. She is currently classified as having a high risk pregnancy due to certain health conditions and her doctor has placed her on a restricted work schedule. Her hours were cut in half which makes finances VERY difficult for her right now. Regardless of her situation she is still willing to lend a helping hand when needed. She is very strong willed, determined, loving and caring person. But most of all she a tremendous friend! If anyone is deserving of this Dream Baby shower it is none other than my friend, Miss Latoya Charity!

Lindsey Leavitt                                          Click this link to vote for for any nominee         

Lindsey is an amazing sister to me! She has always been the planner, the get everyone together, the back bone to our family, as the oldest of three. My only wish is to thank her for all she has done by allowing her to have the baby shower she deserves that we cannot afford to throw for her. By winning this contest I could show her how much she means not only to me but our whole family! Please consider her for all she does, as the family representative, vice president of the Children’s Heart Foundation, a full time legal assistant, a wonderful mother and a full time home maker. She is an amazing person and does so much for everyone else I only hope I can do this for her! Casey Robertson

Lindsey is most deserving of this Dream Baby Shower because she is such a special and giving individual. Lindsey entered this world with a Congenital Heart Defect. At the age of 2 she had to have open heart surgery to repair her defect. She went on to play softball competitively in school and continues to play recreationally. Lindsey gave birth to her son, Layne, nearly 4 years ago. Layne was born with a heart murmur and has to be monitored by visits to the Pediatric Cardiologist, he has not had to have any procedures to correct his murmur. Lindsey serves as Vice President of the Children’s Heart Foundation Virginia Chapter. She helps put together events such as our Allison Jacobs Golf Tournament and the Congenital Heart Walk of Central Virginia. In addition to her family, softball and CHFVA, Lindsey works full time for a law firm. Lindsey is a native of the Mechanicsville area. We are excited to welcome a heart healthy little one in October 2012.

Lindsay  A. Lewis                             Click this link to vote for for any nominee         

Lindsay Lewis is my best friend and has been for over 20 years!  I have been by her side through all the great ups and downs life has to offer and I can’t be more excited for her and her husband, Jamie Lewis, to be expecting their first child!

I know without a doubt that Lindsay will be an amazing mother, afterall, she has a great role model with her mom!  Lindsay is one of the most honest and sincere people I have ever known and she can’t wait to, as she puts it, “raise a strong, humble, aware human being.”  When Lindsay takes something on whether it’s her job, helping a friend or raising a child she does it with true integrity.  She is very conscious of the environment and the people around her.  For example, her and Jamie plan on using cloth diapers and have done tons of research on the products they plan on using in hopes of reducing the toxins that they expose their baby to, etc. We plan on throwing her a shower in August and this would make it all the more special!

McRae Brittingham                        Click this link to vote for for any nominee         

She’s Awesome!

Melissa Van Vickle                            Click this link to vote for for any nominee         

For a woman having a child is never easy.  They go through so much just with that alone, but Melissa has gone beyond that.  She already has a full time job as a mother of a 3 year old, been working to get things ready for the new baby, just finished Nursing School, and is currently studying for her state board exams to become a RN.  She does so much for so many people without asking anything in return.  That is why I feel she is most deserving of the 2012 Dream Baby Shower.

I am nominating my daughter, Melissa White Van Vickle of Mineral, VA.She’s a hard-working wife, mother to  preschooler Reid, and is expecting their “Mini Van” in July.  They are confirmed pet lovers, with 2 dogs and 3 cats. After being laid off from her job as an assistant controller in 2009, she decided to return to school to become a Registered Nurse. She had a daily hour-long commute to school, had classes all day, returning home to pick up Reid from child care.  Studying nights and weekends, she graduated cum laude in May from nursing school and will soon be taking the boards to license her as a Registered Nurse. She has participated in mission trips with her childhood church and both colleges she attended, helping under-served people in clinics and orphanages. She is active in their church, and belongs to “Moms’ Club” in Mineral.  She delivers Meals on Wheels with her son, showing him the way to caring.  I expect she’ll continue to do this with their new baby.

Melissa has worked so hard while pregnant. She finished RN school this May and will be sitting for her NCLEX-RN before the baby is born. She is such a caring person and her future patients will thrive under her.She is also a loving and dedicated friend. I can always turn to her for support and advice as I finish up RN school myself. And I know she’s been there for others as well. It’s been a long, hard journey and I don’t know how I would have made it through without her. I also have seen her with her son and she is amazing! So patient and nurturing. I can’t wait to see her with this new little one! She will be a guiding light for me once I’m a parent. She is so deserving as a mom-to-be. Finishing up school to better her and her children’s futures, all while being there for her son and husband.

Michelle Roop                                         Click this link to vote for for any nominee         

I am nominating my friend and co worker Michelle.  She is wonderful, kind, intelligent and fun loving.  She works hard and always goes above and beyond for others.  This will be the first child for her and her husband Mike.  I think they will make amazing parents!

Nicole Pegram                                           Click this link to vote for for any nominee         

I am Nicole’s husband, I have been married to my wife for a little under a year now and she is a wonderful mother to my step-daughter Molly {her daughter}. When I met them for the 1st time I knew my place was meant to be right beside them. So not long after we dated, I asked her to marry me! I married my best friend and got a little best friend with her, now we are adding to our little family. My wife just found out we are 10 weeks pregnant! I want to nominate my wife because she is just the best women a man and a family could ask for. And I look forward to our family growing.

Niki Dunkum                                          Click this link to vote for for any nominee         

My daughter, Niki Dunkum, was married in July, graduated from Grad School from VCU in December with her masters in elementary education and found out she was pregnant in January. Teaching has been a life long dream of hers but as you can imagine being due right when school starts is not very good timing for being hired. She has been substituting and they will get by until she can go back to work but I wanted to nominate her for this dream shower in hopes of her winning to help them get started with their new little addition. Niki is the sweetest, most thoughtful person I know and would do anything for her friends and family so I wanted to do this for her!  Thank you for considering her for this Dream Baby Shower! Wanda H.

Nikie Roth-Unroe                                      Click this link to vote for for any nominee         

I would like to nominate Niki Roth-Unroe. She is an amazing person and friend. And is going to be even more amazing mother. I met Niki because she is married to a high school friend of mine. She instantly became one of my best friends. I have seen how she is with some of my friends children and can only imagine what she has in store for her own children. Shortly after finding out that she was pregnant with the first grandchild on either her or her husband’s sides of the family, she was hit with the unexpected news of the sudden loss of her mother. I can imagine the pain she has for losing a parent, but not the pain she has while carrying a child that her mother will never meet. Niki is stronger than she will give herself credit for. I would like to nominate my friend Niki for the free baby shower to show her how proud I am to have her as a friend and that she is going to make an AMAZING mother! Thanks.

Patricia Ribler                                           Click this link to vote for for any nominee         

Even though her upcoming baby will be her first, I am confident Patricia will be one of the best moms in her neighborhood, in Richmond, and beyond. Patricia has everything the ideal mother would! She’s an amazing cook, ask anyone who has had one of her cupcakes. She keeps and beautifully decorates her home with her daily crafts. She teaches kindergarten students and keeps them engaged everyday with awesome activities and exciting lesson plans, and as a fun childhood filled with playing together proves, she has a great imagination that her new baby will adore. Patricia and I had a wonderful mother to follow, and I’m sure if Patricia is half as good of a mother as she was and is as a sister, that’s one lucky baby! She deserves something to reward for her being the woman and mother she is!

Rashan E. Edwards                              Click this link to vote for for any nominee         

This is my 2nd child. When I was pregnant with my son I never had a baby shower. My family is on the west side of the country and since money is tight I did not have the opportunity to fly to see them. I have been to a few baby showers but never had my own. Since I am having a girl this time around I think it would help a lot with me missing my family.

Raven Williams                                                     Click this link to vote for for any nominee         

I’m a first time mom and would love a chance to win!

Raven is having her first child in September.She is a warm-hearted beautiful woman that is quite obviously already in love with her “nugget” as she calls her unborn son.  Raven deserves this shower because she is a special person whose kindness is contagious and who makes others just feel better when she is around them.  I have known her since birth and have never known her not to be a sweet person.  She is a beautiful woman that would do a wardrobe from your store proud. Raven is going to make a wonderful mother.  She makes me proud and I cannot think of anyone who deserves this dream shower more than Raven, Chet, and their little “nugget”.

Raven is a dream friend. Raven met Chet and Chet met Raven…a dream couple. They fell in love and from this love, this dream baby was planned and conceived. The entire family is anxiously awaiting this dream baby. It is only fitting that Raven and Chet should be awarded the Dream Baby Shower.

Raven is expecting her first child.  She lives in a small apartment in Richmond.  She works hard, loves deeply, loves to have fun.  She is so looking to welcoming her in September.  when she wins this shower she and Chet will be able to have more funds to save up to find a bigger place to live and raise their son.

We met Raven two years ago and within one day we fell in love. She’s the most genuine person I know. When we found out they were expecting the first words out of my mouth may have been “They lied to us!” because a few weeks prior, they were at a party “not partying” because they were being health conscience until 3/1. Of course, 3/1 marked 12 weeks and they could announce the baby. I quickly got over betrayal and beamed (possibly cried) because there has never been two people more in love or more deserving of having a family together. When Raven is not planning for Nugget, she also works for SweetFrog helping expand the franchise nationally. Through her job she interacts with children and it is obvious how much of a wonderful mother she will make. I want to nominate Raven because she really deserves such a wonderful gift. She constantly gives herself to others and helps out. Her child will be born into such a loving family, that it would be nice to pamper her one more time.

Raven is a delightful, energetic, enthusiastic, caring, considerate, sweet, young woman who is the mother-to-be of my first grand child!!

Raven Williams is my big sister. She is one of the most caring individuals that I know. This is her first child, the first grandchild, and will be the first boy in our family! She deserves this more than anyone I know because ever since we got the news she has been working day in and day out to get ready for this little man!

Raven Williams is the most well deserving candidate for Dream Baby Shower. I have only known her for a short time, but within that time I have witnessed her warm and kind heart.  She always has something positive to day and willing to go out of her way to help others. She is always caring for others with a big smile on her face. She has such beautiful qualities and is going to make a wonderful mom to her son.

Rebecca Button                                       Click this link to vote for for any nominee         

I think my big sister deserves this baby shower because she’s done nothing for herself sense she has been pregnant. She works all day, every day and doesn’t have the right people to help her throw her own baby shower. So she just wasn’t planning on having one. I just wanna see a smile on her face because its been awhile .

Rebecca Simms                      Click this link to vote for for any nominee         

Already singing to her baby and she isn’t due for 7 months. Rebecca will be the coolest mom ever. Her baby will come out singing her funny wacky songs that only she can come up with. Americas got talent at age 1? Her baby just might do it. I wouldnt be surprised. Crazy, funny, rythmic, and quited talented. This Hip To Be Round mom deserves to be Richmond 2012 Dream Baby Shower winner!

I am expecting my very first child, and we are very excited for this new expierience. Yet not fully prepared, I wish to bring this new life into a wonderful stress free and bright beautiful world. I just need some help to make it stress free I work very hard and want to give my child everything that I did not have growing up, and with your help I can do that. Thank you.

She is hardworking, caring, funny and carries an enthusiastic aura with her wherever she goes. I am certain she will endow her child with a sense of wonder and the belief they can truly make a positive impact in this world as she has. Rebecca is the epitome of what a great mother can be. It would be a great honor for people of Richmond to name her this year’s RICHMOND MOM TO BE!

Rebekah L Midkiff                                 Click this link to vote for for any nominee         

Rebekah is one of the most amazing mom’s I know.  She has a three year old daughter. Her husband Jake and Bekah are great parents and their daughter is the smartest little thing.  She may only be three but can do so much.  She is reading, counting and does “chores”.   Loves to dance, swims, sings, and can make you laugh until you can’t take any more.  With the new baby coming she is already getting ready to help.  Practicing holding correctly, diapering, holding the bottle and thinks that she will be in charge. They are a great family and winning a Dream Baby Shower would be awesome for this wonderful family.

Robin Emson                                    Click this link to vote for for any nominee         

Robin is one of the coolest chicks I’ve met.  Her excitement about her pregnancy is contagious.  She has a great sense of humor.  Who else changes their profile picture on Facebook to a jar of Prego pasta sauce to announce their pregnancy?  Recently I’ve seen her take care of family members so I would love to see her have a fantastic baby shower.  I hope you’ll vote for my Prego friend!

Samantha Aida                           Click this link to vote for for any nominee         

My daughter is 25 and getting ready to have her second child in August. She works everyday and comes home to her little boy who is 3 years old and plays with him, cooks for him, and never skips a beat on what he needs. She has made every effort to include her son in this pregnancy. He talks to the baby and knows her name and wants to change her, feed her and love her. I think she deserves it because she is a wonderful, loving, caring mother and friend. She works hard to support her family and loves her son more than anything. I think she deserves something special just for her.

Samantha Erin Parks                            Click this link to vote for for any nominee         

I would like to nominate expectant mom Samantha Parks. She is one of the best moms I know.  She is pregnant with her third child and is a loving mom to her two little girls Avery and Londyn.  Samantha suffered with infertility before becoming pregnant with her first child and she knows first hand the disappointment of not having a baby to love. She is patient and nurturing and unselfishly spends vast amounts of time teaching her girls how to be creative,kind,silly and loving. By example she teaches her children to put others first. Recently she threw a baby shower for an expectant mom who otherwise would not have had one. It is not unusual for her to organize meal deliveries for sick friends and new moms. Samantha is a very special person and so deserves to be treated in a special way. I hope you will consider her for this honor. Thank You.

Sara Elizabeth Thomas                                    Click this link to vote for for any nominee         

Sara is just over a month away from graduating from nursing school and taking her boards! She has worked very hard to get through nursing school and her baby will arrive just as she is accepting job offers.  All expectant moms deserve a great baby shower, but an expectant mom who is a brand new nurse deserves one most of all!

Sarah Akin                                             Click this link to vote for for any nominee         

Sarah is a friend that I met at church three years ago. Sarah and her husband, Jason are expecting their first child.  They are a wonderful couple that have overcome many adversities over the last several years. However, neither allowed the troubles in their lives negatively impact their relationship. They have persevered and worked hard to make their dreams come true.  The renewed their vows for their fifth anniversary last fall.  Now with a little one on the way, their dreams of a family are coming true.  I am nominating them for the Dream Baby Shower just as icing on the cake.  What better way to make the addition of the baby to their family than this wonderful baby shower?

Sarah K. Billeter                                    Click this link to vote for for any nominee         

I would like to nominate Sarah Billeter! While Sarah may be pregnant with her first child, she is already a ‘Mom’ to dozens of children. You see, Sarah is a Special Education teacher in Hanover County. She spends her time advocating for children who have no voice of their own. Her dedication goes above and beyond her job description and she truly loves each child. On stormy days, she will comfort my autistic son to make sure he feels safe and has even driven him home during storms when he has been too scared to get on the bus. She knows each child’s needs and spends her days protecting them and giving them a secure learning environment.  She has given her heart and soul to each of her students, some of which can behave aggressively, but she loves them unconditionally.  She deserves an extraordinary baby shower to honor her and her devotion to children with special needs. She is an exceptional woman who loves without boundaries and all of her school children thrive because of it!

Sarah Graves                                                   Click this link to vote for for any nominee         

The person that I would like to nominate for Richmond’s 2012 Dream Baby Shower is my precious daughter, Sarah Graves.  After she and Alex were married, they dreamed of having a child of their own.  However, due to complications from a surgery when she was young, Sarah developed adhesion’s disease, which rendered conception difficult. Sarah endured two attempts with in-vitro fertilization, a process that is physically arduous, costly and emotionally challenging.  When both attempts failed, because she and her husband had such an abundance of love to give, they decided, through an enormous leap of faith and commitment, to adopt a baby.  This September, they will be parents of a baby boy and I can think of no other woman in my life who will be a better mother and more deserving of a new baby than my beautiful daughter, Sarah, who has demonstrated courage, patience, perseverance and a welcoming heart throughout the adoption process. With love, my vote goes to Sarah Graves of Richmond, VA.

Shanice Cross                        Click this link to vote for for any nominee         

I am nominating my daughter for the dream baby shower. She is a strong women who strives to do her best even though she needs help in getting items for her first unborn child (a boy) she will never ask anyone but is so greatful when she recieves gifts from others.

Shannon Cooper                       Click this link to vote for for any nominee                     

Shannon is most deserving for this shower because she has been an excellent Godmother to Sean, and Aunt to Malachi and Amir for years and now she is going to be another herself. Most of all, while most of us are surrounded by family during pregnancy, Shannon does not that that. She lives miles away from all of her blood relatives, [they live] in Wisconsin. Shannon also lost her mother to cancer last year. While a dream shower will not replace her loss, it could make this time easier.

Stephanie Edwards                                             Click this link to vote for for any nominee         

Stephanie deserves this dream shower mostly because she never asks for anything and since this her first child I would love to see this happen for her . This pregnancy has not been easy on her and I know this would be everything she ever wanted !

Stephanie Tingler                               Click this link to vote for for any nominee     

My friend Stephanie is so deserving of this baby shower. She has a heart of gold. Her husband has worked two jobs just to support the family. Stephanie’s six year old son shares the same birthday as mine. I met her in 2007 and when my family moved here for work,her family was our neighbor. I was very lonely and pregnant at the time with my second child. We actually met because my son which was two at the time bit her sons finger through the fence. She befriended me and has stuck by my side every since. She is truly one of the best mothers I know and is always taking care of other people and their kids. She is always putting other people first. This will be her second child and IT’S A GIRL! No words can truly explain why she should be “The One”. If you ask anyone around her they would for sure vote for her. She would give her shirt right off her back from anyone in need and she is always volunteering her time for school and church.

Tara  Kilpatrick                                          Click this link to vote for for any nominee         

Tara is expecting her third little boy. She has twin boys that are 5.  One of the boys was diagnosed a year ago with a very rare spinal cancer. He has undergone surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. She has been amazingly strong for him and for their family.  She is ecstatic to be blessed with another child but has very little time to think about or plan for his arrival.  I believe she is highly deserving of this shower because she gives of herself continuously for her family and has never asked for anything back. It would be amazing to let her know how much people recognize her love and sacrifices.

Taryn McVey Jones                       Click this link to vote for for any nominee     

I’m nominating my daughter, Taryn, because I am so proud of the person she has become, and I know I will be equally proud of the mother she will be.  Taryn is one of the most caring and loving people I know, and she likes everyone she meets. I remember one day when she was in elementary school, she got off the bus crying and devastated because someone at school didn’t want to be her friend. Taryn liked everyone, and it was a totally foreign concept to her that someone else wouldn’t feel the same.  To this day, she is as loyal a friend (and daughter) as anyone can be. She will be an amazing role model for the daughter that she is expecting, and I have no doubt that her children will grow up in a non-judgmental home, learning total acceptance and love. Mothers are supposed to teach their children,and I hope I instilled in her some admirable qualities, but I have learned much from her as well, and I am proud that she is my daughter and the mother of my granddaughter-to-be!

The prizes for the Hip to Be Round 2012 Dream Baby Shower winner are as follows:

Hip to be Round – $200 shopping spree

$1,000 home care package for grand prize winner from Nurturing Nurse

Real Life Studios – a $750 photography session; 2nd and 3rd place $200 photography sessions

 The Cedarhouse School – A Gift bag of goodies worth $250.

Core Kids Academy – $200 Gift Certificate

Science Museum of Virginia – $99 Membership

4 hours free Nanny Service from College Nannies & Tutors valued at $99

RELAY Foods – $75 gift certificate

Atkins, Maestrello, Miller & Associates – $75 Sonicare Toothbrush

Call Federal Credit Union – $50 check to begin a savings plan for the baby.

$50 worth of baby shower invitations by DawnCorrespondence

$50 gift certificate to Champagne and Shoes to accessorize her baby shower outfit

Gourmet Cookies by Valli – $50 Gift Certificate

Wild Greens Catering – catering the winner announcement event!

Beth (right) celebrates with friends and admirers.

Over 2,000 votes were cast for the amazing Richmond women nominated in our 2012 Supermom Contest, and  Beth Trebour was the mom who swept this contest and had a grand celebration at the Wine Loft Richmond on May 9th, 2012.

Beth and twenty of her friends gathered with myself, the folks and docs from Stony Point Surgery Center &  CJStuf.org to celebrate Beth’s accomplishments and

Beth, center, kept saying "I don't deserve this!" but her friends beg to differ.

admirers.

The swag was amazing–over $3,000 in prizes from our incredible sponsors.

Rachel Reynolds of CJStuf.org shared where our sponsorship dollars went in this contest: helping families with very ill family members.

Julie Bragg of Stony Point Surgery Center, Beth and Rachel Reynolds of CJStuf.org

Beth herself is no stranger to good deeds. An organization in which she is a leader, called Running With Those Who Can’t, is just one of the amazing ways she is a Richmond hero.

Julie Bragg of Stony Point Surgery Center reads Beth's heartfelt nomination, which won her the title of 2012 Richmond, VA Supermom!

Here are Beth’s nomination and prizes:

Cool stuff that all went home with Beth!

My friend Beth Trebour IS Richmond’s SUPERMom! She is the mom to Jenna (16) and Rachel (13).  Jenna was born with a metabolic disorder called cerebral folic deficiency syndrome. Because of her disabilities, Jenna requires a lot of her family’s time and energy. Beth is a WORKING mom, employed as a Service Health Coordinator. Beth also trains and competes in triathlons, often pushing Jenna in a stroller and with Rachel right along side. In 2011 Beth helped start a new organization called Running With Those That Can’t. She has been one of the key organizers am not sure WHEN Beth sleeps! She took Rachel to the 12am premiere of “The Hunger Games.” No matter what challenge Beth is facing, no matter what stress she is facing, she ALWAYS has something funny to say, ALWAYS has a smile and laugh, ALWAYS has time for others, ALWAYS enjoys a glass of wine, ALWAYS fights for the best interest of her daughters, ALWAYS makes you feel important in her presence. Her daughters are a reflection of the SUPER mom she is!

Congratulations to all who were nominated, we think you are ALL Supermoms!

from left, Kate Hall of Richmondmom.com, Julie Bragg of SPSC, Beth Trebour, and Rachel Reynolds

$500 Gift Certificate to Hayes and Fisk, the Art of Photography

Celebration for up to 20 friends and family at The Wine Loft in Richmond including wine, soft drinks and appetizers on May 9th, 2012. ($500)

Theatre IV/Barksdale Ticket package ($292):

-4 Tickets for Seussical at the Sara Belle and Neil November Theatre($128 value)
-2 Tickets for Spring Awakening at the Sara Belle and Neil November Theatre($88 value)
-2 Tickets for Nice People Dancing to Good Country Music at Hanover Tavern ($76 value)

Birthday Party for a child at Core Kids Academy ($255)

One-hour massage AND Facial from Massage Envy Spa Richmond ($166)

One-year membership to the VA Historical Society ($99)

One-year membership to the Science Museum of Virginia ($99)

Darling summer tote bag full of gifts from Clementine in Carytown ($80)

One-year membership to KidsDineFree.net ($80)

Two adult classes to Spirited Art Richmond ($70)

Four-hours of nanny care at College Nannies and Tutors ($70)

Facial to Massage Envy from Kidz Kare at Home ($70)

Gift certificate to Relay Foods ($50)

Gift certificate to Mom’s Treehouse ($50)

Gift certificate to Romp n’ Roll ($50)

One dozen cupcakes from Frostings, valued at $35.

Gift certificate to Weebsworld ($25)

One dozen chocolate dipped strawberries from Wild Greens Catering ($25)

*prizes may be subject to change slightly in item and/or value

2012 Richmond Supermom Beth Trebour and her family

Over 2,000 votes were cast for the amazing Richmond women nominated in our 2012 Supermom Contest, and we’re pleased to announce that Beth Trebour is the winner!

Every year, this contest touches my heart, and although I think ALL MOMS are amazing, Beth’s nomination really stopped me in my tracks:

My friend Beth Trebour IS Richmond’s SUPERMom! She is the mom to Jenna (16) and Rachel (13).  Jenna was born with a metabolic disorder called cerebral folic deficiency syndrome. Because of her disabilities, Jenna requires a lot of her family’s time and energy. Beth is a WORKING mom, employed as a Service Health Coordinator. Beth also trains and competes in triathlons, often pushing Jenna in a stroller and with Rachel right along side. In 2011 Beth helped start a new organization called Running With Those That Can’t. She has been one of the key organizers am not sure WHEN Beth sleeps! She took Rachel to the 12am premiere of “The Hunger Games.” No matter what challenge Beth is facing, no matter what stress she is facing, she ALWAYS has something funny to say, ALWAYS has a smile and laugh, ALWAYS has time for others, ALWAYS enjoys a glass of wine, ALWAYS fights for the best interest of her daughters, ALWAYS makes you feel important in her presence. Her daughters are a reflection of the SUPER mom she is!

Thank you, Stony Point Surgery Center, for sponsoring our annual Supermom contest!

Many thanks to Stony Point Surgery Center and the amazing sponsors below, we were able to promote this contest, make a nice donation to CJ’s Thumbs Up Foundation and recruit amazing Supermoms from all over the Richmond region.

Beth will be celebrating with family and friends at The Wine Loft in West Broad Village on May 9th, 2012 and will receive these incredible gifts.

Congratulations to all who were nominated, we think you are ALL Supermoms!

$500 Gift Certificate to Hayes and Fisk, the Art of Photography

Celebration for up to 20 friends and family at The Wine Loft in Richmond including wine, soft drinks and appetizers on May 9th, 2012. ($500)

Theatre IV/Barksdale Ticket package ($292):

-4 Tickets for Seussical at the Sara Belle and Neil November Theatre($128 value)
-2 Tickets for Spring Awakening at the Sara Belle and Neil November Theatre($88 value)
-2 Tickets for Nice People Dancing to Good Country Music at Hanover Tavern ($76 value)

Birthday Party for a child at Core Kids Academy ($255)

One-hour massage AND Facial from Massage Envy Spa Richmond ($166)

One-year membership to the VA Historical Society ($99)

One-year membership to the Science Museum of Virginia ($99)

Darling summer tote bag full of gifts from Clementine in Carytown ($80)

One-year membership to KidsDineFree.net ($80)

Two adult classes to Spirited Art Richmond ($70)

Four-hours of nanny care at College Nannies and Tutors ($70)

Facial to Massage Envy from Kidz Kare at Home ($70)

Gift certificate to Relay Foods ($50)

Gift certificate to Mom’s Treehouse ($50)

Gift certificate to Romp n’ Roll ($50)

One dozen cupcakes from Frostings, valued at $35.

Gift certificate to Weebsworld ($25)

One dozen chocolate dipped strawberries from Wild Greens Catering ($25)

*prizes may be subject to change slightly in item and/or value

They’re back on the RELAY Foods menu and they have some delicious choices to offer. Green Monkey lunches are perfect for kids and adults. Their Energy Pak is perfect for all ages and you can purchase them in larger quantities to keep on hand in your refrigerator so kids can grab one on the way to school, soccer practice, or other activities. Busy parents will also enjoy their menu items for a healthier lunch too.

On RELAY foods, you’ll find:

• Green Monkey Signature Orzo Salad: Orzo, Red Peppers, Zucchini, Feta Cheese, Red Onion, Basil, Parsley, Mint, Lemon, Dijon, Olive Oil, Shallots, Garlic, Salt, Pepper, Pine Nuts. This is one of our most popular choices from moms and dads!
• Mediterranean Tongol Tuna Salad: Tongol Tuna, Canola Mayo, Paquillo Peppers, Carrots, Black Olives, Parsley, Salt, Pepper, Red Onion. Tuna salad like you’ve never had before!
• Green Monkey Energy Pak: For a delicious lunch or hearty snack packed with lots of food for sustained energy. The Wild Greens Energy Pack includes wild caught albacore tuna salad, hummus, organic mixed greens with goat cheese and toasted walnuts, fresh local organic herb vinaigrette, and mini slices of whole wheat pita – a balanced selection for anytime! These are fresh for up to 4 days – order a pack of 3-4 for the week and have school lunches ready for kids or grab one as you head out the door for work or other activities. A delicious time-saver!
• Chickpea Salad: Garbanzo Beans, Lime, Zucchini, Feta Cheese, Cilantro, Garlic, Salt, Pepper. A real energy boost!

And this is the perfect time to try them on RELAY because each time you order, your name is entered in a contest to win $75! Just order by May 15 for a chance to win. Click here for details.

Visit RELAY Foods and choose Green Monkey!

For catering options and choices, visit Green Monkey’s sister company, Wild Greens Catering, where you’ll find incredible catering options too! Be sure and use your Savvy Saver card for Green Monkey purchases too.

Green Monkey is an advertiser on Richmondmom.com

Thank you, Stony Point Surgery Center, for sponsoring our annual Supermom contest!

Vote here for one of the amazing Richmond moms who have been nominated for the 2012 Richmond Supermom Contest!

Prizes include $3,000 of great local swag & a celebration for the winning mom and her family and friends at The Wine Loft on 5/9/12!

Jamye Tickle, Richmond's 2011 Supermom and her kiddos

Last year we celebrated with Richmond mom Jamye Tickle, who will this year’s Supermom be?

We’ve made a $5 donation to CJStuf.Org for every nomination! CJ’s Thumbs Up Foundation grants $500 gifts to families suffering with illness in memory of Charlotte Reynolds who passed away at the tender age of four. Read more about Charlotte from her mom, Rachel Reynolds.

2) Voting occurs from 4/16-4/30, and each individual may only vote once in this contest. Why? We realize folks don’t have time to vote multiple times, and don’t want to take up time for our voters. So once is it, and we don’t count duplicate votes. We do not add anyone to our email list unless they opt-in, nor do we send mail.

3)   The winner will be announced on 5/1/12, and may invite 20 friends and family to celebrate with her at our SuperMom Celebration at The Wine Loft on 5/9/12 where she’ll be treated to the amazing bunch of prizes below.*

The 2012 Richmond Virginia SuperMom Nominees are:

Angela Walters

Angela is a great sister and an even better mom. She works full time as a dispatcher at Lasership and she also owns her own business, HomeGrown Little Ones (www.homegrownlittleones.com). My nephew has been going through a hard time recently. He is going through tests to see if he is Autistic and some minor health issues as well. He turns 2 in May, so this is really stressful on my sister with working 2 jobs and taking care of her son. She has the help of her boyfriend (my nephew’s father) but he also works during the day.  I am nominating my sister because she deserves the chance for her great deeds to be recognized and for Richmond to know what a great person and hard worker she is!  Thank you!

Click here to vote for any Supermom

Belinda Coleman

My mother is an amazing woman, wife, sister, friend, grand mom, & most importantly an AMAZING MOM!  My mother for as long as I can remember has always been the supporter, care giver, provider, etc. If you need it and she has it, then you can best believe you can have it. My mother has worked hard her entire life to take care of me and my siblings. My mom hasn’t ever taken a real vacation let alone has ever had any time for herself.  I would like to nominate my mom because she has taught me how to be a wonderful mother. I can now understand why she used to tell me things as a child. I love my mom and would love it very much if you voted for her and give her a chance to do something for herself since she is ALWAYS doing something for someone else.

Click here to vote for any Supermom

Beth Trebour

My friend Beth Trebour IS Richmond’s SUPERMom! She is the mom to Jenna (16) and Rachel (13).Jenna was born with a metabolic disorder called cerebral folic deficiency syndrome. Because of her disabilities, Jenna requires a lot of her family’s time and energy. Beth is a WORKING mom, employed as a Service Health Coordinator. Beth also trains and competes in triathlons, often pushing Jenna in a stroller and with Rachel right along side. In 2011 Beth helped start a new organization called Running With Those That Can’t. She has been one of the key organizers am not sure WHEN Beth sleeps! She took Rachel to the 12am premiere of “The Hunger Games.” No matter what challenge Beth is facing, no matter what stress she is facing, she ALWAYS has something funny to say, ALWAYS has a smile and laugh, ALWAYS has time for others, ALWAYS enjoys a glass of wine, ALWAYS fights for the best interest of her daughters, ALWAYS makes you feel important in her presence. Her daughters are a reflection of the SUPER mom she is!

Click here to vote for any Supermom

Cara Joyner

Cara definitely gets my Super Mom award.  Full of energy, full of faith, full of love for my son and my grandson. When Cara sees a goal, she drives for it … at 70 mph! Pursuing a college degree, an at-home business, a new little guy, loving on her family and girlfriends along the way.  This busy-ness never gets in the way of her thoughtful personality, she can always make you feel good just talking to her. And that infectious laugh….! Writing is one of her ways to rest, and it’s always insightful, raw, and honest. And you should hear her sing – ohmygoodness. When she and BJ sing together – it just brings tears.  I could listen to her all day long.  Yep, she gets my Super Mom award.  Mother-in-law Maureen. Cara is a young, hip wife & mom, has a toddler son, goes to school, and is staring her own baby food business!  Wow, I was bowled over by her energy and enthusiasm.  She is so passionate about nutrition for children and is providing for all the moms in Richmond!”

Click here to vote for any Supermom

Charla Armistead

Charla is an awesome, incredible, and selfless mother of 2 beautiful girls and a wonderful wife to her husband. Charla deserves this Supermom Award because she truly wears a SuperMom cape everyday. I have seen Charla work full time, go to school to finish her Master’s degree, be in ministry at her church full time which at the time was located in Surry, VA. Charla still found time to spend with her daughter and also with her “Sista’ girls”. Charla is always willing to give you her last. She will give. ..give… give until she has nothing left. She deserves this award! It is time for something great and awesome to happen for her for a change instead of her doing for everyone else.  Richmondmom.com if you are looking for the 2012 supermom, you do not have to look any further IT’S CHARLA ARMSTEAD! No questions asked—she truly is Richmond’s Super Mom.

Click here to vote for any Supermom

Cristina Cotman

I am nominating my daughter Christina; she is a Super Mom to me.  She has 3 daughters and does everything for them and she does it by herself !  She has been struggling for the past year with no job, saving everything she has so the girls can have what they need.  She spends all her extra time with them creatively making things  to play with.  She does it all and she does it by herself , she is so deserving of a Super Mom award. Please choose her for the Super Mom, she needs something good  to happen right now and so deserving  of it.  I would love to see her face when she wins this!

Click here to vote for any Supermom

Cindi Puryear

My mom Cindi Puryear is most deserving of the Richmond’s 2012 Supermom award for so many reasons. She is an amazing, caring, selfless, Christian mom who is always thinking about her kids and everyone else besides herself.  My mom lost her mother when she was 18 to suicide. So, during the important years of her life she was left without a mother for many of the exciting milestones of her life such as her wedding and the birth of her 3 kids. My mom was a full-time mom when we were growing up as my dad often worked 7 days a week. She was always there for us at any sporting event or school activity we had. She was always encouraging us to do our best in whatever we did. Our mother also knew it was very important to raise children who had a love for Jesus Christ just as she did, so she made sure that we were in church every week. It wasn’t until I was a mother myself that I understood and appreciated all that she did for us, she is my best friend and I am so thankful for all that she has done.

Click here to vote for any Supermom

Damara West-Meadows (2 Nominations)

My mom works very hard seven days a week and goes to school so brother and I can have a better life. She got a house built for our family last year even though she was very sick. She takes me to my dance and martial art classes even when she is very tired. She even graduated from college last year and is going back so that one day she can be called Dr. Damara West-Meadows. I love my mom very much and want to be like her when I grow up: a loving mother and hard-working woman. She is my SUPERMOM!

My wife is a devoted mother and wife. She has the strength and endurance that most can only wish for. When she wants to make something happen, she puts her all into it. Most would never know her personal struggles because she puts a smile on face and keeps it moving. Her pain is her tool to keep moving. She is a powerhouse!  Besides working two jobs and returning back to school, she volunteers her time to help others. She is always cooking up a feast for family and friends. She loves to entertain and have fun with family/friends. She is my SUPERWOMAN!

Click here to vote for any Supermom

Daphne Patterson (2 Nominations)

I have known Daphne for 20 years and she has ALWAYS been maternal, but when she was close to 40 the doctor gave her the unbelievable news. She was pregnant. She had spent her entire life being told she would never have a child.  During her pregnancy she dealt with chronic anemia and constant fear of losing her miracle opportunity.  Just after her 40th birthday, Daphne was admitted into St. Marys because her blood pressure was through the roof. After 25 hours of non-epidural labor, 10 pound Jesse Faye Patterson arrived.

Click here to vote for any Supermom

Daphne Patterson

As a single mother, Daphne has built an amazing village of support and love for her daughter.  She works a full-time job and is a full-time mom. She puts planning into every moment of time she has with her daughter.  Daphne knows that life is a precious gift as she deals with her anemia daily.  She has made this the platform for her relationship with her daughter.  Daphne lost her mother at age 6 from a similar blood condition. She knows, every minute counts!

Click here to vote for any Supermom

Gail Baker

It is a privilege to nominate my friend, Gail Baker, to be the 2012 SuperMom. Gail is a busy wife, mom to 3 beautiful children, and a small business owner. She is an amazing woman who is passionate about bringing joy to children (hers and others’) and living a happy, eco-friendly life.  I love how she wholeheartedly encourages her children’s academic and artistic efforts. She is such a positive force that it is hard not to smile and laugh when you spend time with her.  As the owner of Bright Life Toys she creates delightful, handmade toys. I am in awe of how dedicated she is to both her family and her business. The care she takes in designing and creating her handmade toys is inspiring.  The more time I get to spend with her, the more thankful I am to call her a friend.  She is kind, talented, and knowledgeable – always there to lend a hand or just listen to a friend.

Click here to vote for any Supermom

Grace Morse Brumagin

I’m 15 & am nominating my mom.  The first thing I considered: how is Super Mom defined? For my mom: easy.  A mom is a parent & she’s a parent x 4. Webster’s defines super as exhibiting characteristics of its type to an extreme degree.  These were the words that really capture my mom. She’s super because of what she does. She doesn’t just stop to smell the roses, she photographs, draws & writes poems about them, or whips out a book on plants to learn more. She’s a nurse attorney who cooks great meals in her suit (at least she wears a cute apron). She’s fun & does things to make us laugh. But she was diagnosed with an aortic aneurysm which turned life upside down. The doctors told her to strengthen her heart & after the tears, she became a runner then a running coach. I admire how she turned a bad diagnosis into something positive & now she inspires other moms thru running. Even without a dictionary I know she’s a Supermom!

Click here to vote for any Supermom

Jennifer Gardener

Jennifer Morris

For the second time, I nominate Jennifer Morris as this year’s Supermom.  I’ve watched her gracefully adapt to challenges that would try the mettle of anyone on the planet.  With two children facing juvenile diabetes and another newborn to nurture, Jennifer has proven many times over what an amazing mom she is.  Her kids are well adjusted and a joy to be around and they all love to help others when they get the chance. Her husband, Buddha, is pretty cool too but that’s not why we’re here. If anyone deserves an award, it’s Jennifer Morris.

Click here to vote for any Supermom

Jennifer Tatum Lawson

My daughter works 2 jobs, organizes fundraisers, helps provide food for the homeless and still finds time to care for her 4 children. The oldest one, Summer is in dance classes 17+ hours a week and often has dance competitions out of state. The two younger ones, Conner and Chloe are also in dance classes. Lucas, the oldest boy is very active in all sports as well as fishing. Jennifer is a founding member of our church and is a Vacation Bible School leader. All four children are active in the youth ministry and perform in various pageants at our church. When she is not driving to and from one of their activities, she can be found at the “Y” where she trains for competitive running and has inspired her sons to compete as well. As summer approaches, she has the children at the “Y” for swimming lessons. I have to add that since I don’t drive, she finds time to take me wherever I need to go. I can’t imagine there is a more devoted mother.  She is indeed, a super mom!

Click here to vote for any Supermom

Joyce Gadson

Our mom, suffers from a devastating, debilitating disease (both a curse and blessing.)  We learned at a very young age how to be a caregiver. She never asks for help, she is confined to a wheelchair not able to use legs, Dad was not always be there to help. He works day and night to support our family so he’s rarely home. I’m sure there are times she wanted to give up pain, losing of her eyesight, and suffering while living with this debilitating disease. She never give up, she fight everyday to make sure we have everything we need, dad works day and night to pay the bills. She’s a champion, a hero in my eyes I always look up to her not only for teaching us what it means to push through hard time to make it through to other side, but have faith trust in God to help us through when we just don’t know how. Thanks for your unwavering faith. You’ve taught us what it means to be strong, to never give up we couldn’t be more thankful that God gave us both of you as beautiful teachers. You will always be our hero.

Click here to vote for any Supermom

Kim Johnson

Kim is definitely a super-mom.  In addition to caring for her own two children and stepson, she also runs an in-home daycare and cares for others’ children!  In addition to that even, she has her own business not only as a seller of Initials, Inc- but as a leader! She manages a group of sellers under herself as well.  Somehow with all that she does, she still finds time for her friends as well as helping others.  She recently participated in a fundraiser to help a family whose daughter suffers from cancer. She could use an evening devoted to her and all the wonderful things she does for her family, her friends, and the community!

Click here to vote for any Supermom

Kimberly Chiarchiaro

When our gaze rises to the night’s sky, we tend to seek the familiar arm of the Big Dipper or the bright craters of the moon. Your eye isn’t first drawn to the North Star. She might not appear as bright as the moon, but her steady countenance, her legendary guidance, and her position as a compass for any lost soul seeking direction make her truly special. Kimberly Chiarchiaro is a ‘North Star’ to her workplace, her community and her family- a Richmondmom.com SuperMom. She is the proud mother of two children, Samantha (15) and Kyle (13), and loving wife to Dr. Scott McCoy. Kim has a successful career in office management through her work for the School of Richmond Ballet and Blaster Tax Consulting, pursuing her professional interests and showing her children that woman can raise a family and have a fulfilling career. She is an active member of the PTA at Seven Hills and Maggie Walker Governors’ School, is spearheading a recycling program at Seven Hills, and volunteering in the Tuck Shop as part of the Phoenix Club board (booster club).   Kim plays a leadership role at the Central Virginia Foodbank where she is a regular volunteer.Each May, their family holds a household items drive for Safe Harbor Shelter, a local woman’s shelter, by delivering empty grocery bags to their neighbors, rounding them up full of donations and delivering them to the shelter.

Click here to vote for any Supermom

Kristen Nichoale Sexton

Kristen is such a great mother to her 2 wonderful and beautiful kids. She does everything possible to make sure her kids are well-taken care of; she doesn’t have very much money but she does what she can to make sure her kids have what they need when they need it. She has struggled so much to make sure her kids are taken care of. She is just the greatest mom there is, I have never seen a woman so invested in her kids day after day. They are her pride and joy she wouldn’t know what to do if she didn’t have them in her life everyday. She deserves something like this because she has worked so hard to get where she is in life. She’s just a wonderful person and she never gets appreciated, and I think its time for someone to do that for her. She has never had much growing up or now so she needs this badly. She would be so happy if she won this contest she is going to just be happy that she actually got voted for Richmond’s Super Mom, please vote for her, she would be so honored.

Click here to vote for any Supermom

Lori Nease

Lori is definitely a super mom!  She is the proud mom of Madison (11), Megan (9), and Ethan (2).  She practices softball with her girls, involves them with Girl Scouts, takes frequent day trips with her son, all while attending nursing school and working part-time as a nursing assistant. Lori hardly has time for herself because of her busy schedule and many responsibilities.   Winning Richmond’s 2012 Super mom Award will finally give her recognition for all of her love and efforts.

Click here to vote for any Supermom

Marcia Marcus

Marcia is the most devoted mother there is.  She works constantly with our hearing-impaired daughter to keep her up to speed with her speech and enunciation.  Marcia gave up her career to stay home and raise her and prepare her for the world.  Children love her instantly and she makes everyone she meets feel like they are the center of the universe.

Click here to vote for any Supermom

Melanie Brown

Melanie Brown is an awesome mom. She is the mother of our beautiful son and daughter, Spencer and Abigail. She is a loving wife and supports me and my crazy work schedule. She takes care of the kids when I am gone and keeps all of us clean and well-fed. She is a caring person. She works at Virginia Women’s Center and I hear all the stories of concern she has for each of her patients. Her doctors always have great praise for her hard work and as her husband, I couldn’t be prouder. I know there are many mothers out there and each and every one should get their own reward, but if I didn’t nominate her for the Supermom award, I wouldn’t deserve to be her lucky husband.

Click here to vote for any Supermom

Michelle C. Bair

At 33, Michelle is the mother of two daughters, ages 12 and 8. Serving as a youth coach for field hockey, basketball and soccer, the impact she has throughout the Richmond area is beyond measure. Michelle spends her days in the classroom and at the workplace. In addition to working part-time, she is a full-time student.  Michelle will graduate this May as a double major in both Social Work and Individualized Studies from Virginia State University, where she holds a 3.7 GPA. For the past three years, she has been recognized with Honors within both her class and her department. She serves as President for several campus organizations and also holds an executive position for a national student social work organization. She is an inspiration to me and our daughters and is more than deserving of being recognized as Richmond’s Supermom. In the words of our girls, “Our Mom is the best because she loves us, she kisses us goodnight, and snuggles with us when we watch movies on the weekend”.

Click here to vote for any Supermom

Michelle Garcia

Michelle Garcia is a great nomination for super mom.   Losing her home, living in an undisclosed location due to the nature of her circumstance, and taking care of three children makes her a prime candidate.  From being a stay-at-home mom to being a single full time caretaker and supporter has been a monumental struggle.  It is still a struggle on a daily basis just to provide shelter, food, and clothing for her children.  She still has a long road ahead but is constantly trying to better their family situation. Her optimism is unending and her outlook for the future is positive.

Click here to vote for any Supermom

Michelle  S. Atkins

My wife’s sister died a little over a year ago.  My sister-in-law left an 18 month old little boy behind.  Father was unknown.  The child was on the verge of entering the social services system in New York.  We brought the child to live with us in Moseley, VA.  Even though my wife and her sister had grown apart and didn’t see eye to eye any more, she refused to turn her back on this little boy.  She knew it would completely disrupt our lives and forever change the future of our family.  However, she convinced me it was the right thing to do.  It was.  He is a permanent part of family now.  My sister-in-law lives on through his eyes.  He grows to look more and more like her every day.  My wife is a stay-at-home mom but she also runs a small business out of our house.  She cares for 3 children fewer than 5.  It is incredibly stressful as I work long hours and travel.  She is always patient and giving to each of the children.  I don’t know how she does it.  She is the word “mother” personified.

Click here to vote for any Supermom

Monica Fitzgerald

Monica is a devoted and dedicated mother of four boys and one girl.  She is nurturing and loving, yet still firm with each of them when needed.  She leads by example in teaching her children to have good morals and a strong work ethic.  After each of her children were born, Monica was back to work in a few weeks with the baby strapped on her chest and working hard.  She never missed a beat and made it look so easy.  I truly believe she was born to be a mother.  Monica does her very best to make sure her children have all they need.  She strongly believes you have to stand up for your children, because no one in this world will fight for them the way their mother will.  As each new issue arises with one of her children, she finds out how to assist them and gets it done. While being a working mother, she manages and keeps her home in order, juggles five children’s activities, maintains a great relationship with her parents and helps at her church; Monica is an inspiration to us all.

Click here to vote for any Supermom

Rainey Niklawski

My Supermom nominee is someone who has been doing amazing things for Richmond’s small businesses.  Rainey Niklawski started the Richmond Cash Mob in January of this year. In that time, she has personally arranged for 4 businesses to be “mobbed”. ALL of those businesses have seen their busiest days EVER because of her.   Small businesses surrounding the business being mobbed also reported a significant increase in sales. By encouraging others to support small businesses, Rainey is helping Richmond’s economy to grow.  She’s personally responsible for the RVA Local Patronage Mob Facebook page, and has gathered over 1000 fans!  Her Supermom powers don’t end there. She was one of the ladies responsible for organizing a fundraiser for a local family who’s child has cancer.   Rainey does all of this while maintaining a daycare she runs from her home.  She is incredibly deserving of the Supermom title.

Click here to vote for any Supermom

Rakesha Smith (3 nominations)

The person who I nominated is my mom, because she always make sure her neighbors are doing great, and she always speak and have a smile on her face. She’s very friendly to people and listens to all of her friends and family. She’s basically a loving Supermom and she can bring the community together with a smile.

I’m nominating this person because she’s an idol and she loves her community and her dear neighbors that she checks on all the time to see if they’re doing great. She’s such an amazing mom that she loves her daughters, friends, and family.

The SuperMom that I chose was my mom because she takes really good care of me when I’m sick and her neighbors when they need help. She’s very friendly with a lot of people that’s why they love her and I love her too. Thank You for your time.

Click here to vote for any Supermom

Renee Holloway

Renee Holloway has raised two daughters and continues to raise her youngest one who is 8 years old. She is the care taker of her mother who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s this year. She works 40 plus hours a week and continues to find time to take her daughter to gymnastics. She manages to find time to come out and watch her grandchildren play sports. If there is something that her children or grand children need she always finds a way to help. She will put herself last to make sure her family is taken care of. Renee is the least selfish person anyone could know.

Click here to vote for any Supermom

Sara Kaut

Sara is definitely a Supermom! She is the mother of 3 children under the age of 8. She is a full-time nursing student @ John Tyler CC & is doing exceptionally well in her studies. She even serves as a mentor to some of her fellow nursing school students. Sara’s husband works full-time, so she takes on the bulk of the shopping, cooking, & cleaning due to her husband’s long hours on the job. Sara is a Girl Scout troop leader for her oldest daughter’s troop. She makes sure her daughters get to field hockey practice every week & is never too tired to sit down & read a book w/her toddler. Sara’s creativity shows in her recent cosmetic improvements to several rooms in her home (painting, custom vanity trim, & artwork included!). Most of all, Sara is the love of my life & I’m thankful for every day that I have with her. She makes life easier for everyone around her & I can’t imagine a mom more worthy of being called “Super”.

Click here to vote for any Supermom

Sumer Ford

Sumer lost her husband last year, just weeks after their 5th child was born premature and kept in NICU for several weeks. Through this very tragic time, Sumer made the tough decision to move the family to Richmond from Iowa in order to have more support for her and the kids’ healing. As much as she wants to lose herself in her grief she has kept her family together; engaging the children in grief support groups, keeping their grades up in school, enrolling them in extracurricular activities, etc. Each day she would rather lay in bed and miss her husband she gets up and plays with her babies, counsels her teenagers, helps with homework, makes fun after school snacks, and all the things that make a mommy great.

Click here to vote for any Supermom

Talia Chambers

The mom that I am nominating is Talia Chambers.  Talia is a 26 year old young lady who had her first child 18 months ago.  As a result of this pregnancy, she developed Cardiomyopathy.  This is a heart disease that was triggered by the birth of her son.  Talia was immediately put on heart medication and seemed to have conquered this illness by the time her son was 1 year old.  Talia continued to care for her son, attending college online and making plans for her life as a single mom.  Suddenly Talia was informed that she was again pregnant.  Talia struggled with her decision to have another child, feeling the guilt of not taking the proper preventative measures, being a young single parent already, and letting herself and her son down.   When Talia went to the doctor’s for her first visit, she was notified that she was having twins.  That powerful revelation haunted her, not knowing what to do, afraid of a choice to keep the children or not keep them.

Click here to vote for any Supermom

Tammy Burns

Tammy; graduate of Virginia Tech, majoring in education, taught in Chesterfield County for five years prior to starting her family. Tammy’s second child was diagnosed with autism at age three. Tammy found herself needing more education in the field of disabilities. Tammy serves on the Autism Society of America board and works very closely with the House of Representatives regarding disability policies. As Tammy learned more and more about autism and began seeking solutions, she has become a source of support for other local families with children who have disabilities. Tammy often speaks with families and groups about autism in Virginia and the surrounding area. She recently led a conference in Atlanta. Tammy supports families who recently had a child diagnosed with autism (IEP meetings).She also heads a group that leads activities for adults with disabilities such as dances. Tammy’s family presently is involved in the lives of two foster children as well. Please award Tammy as this year’s super mom!

Click here to vote for any Supermom

Tracy Boone

Tracy is  my daughter-in-law  she’s  a  great person  her  mothering skills  are  outstanding.  she’s kind patient, and so loving. She home schools her daughter and sees that she is a well rounded person. Tracy is  a team leader for Special Olympics, she has helped out at Freedom House,  been a camp counselor and is involved with her church.  She deserves this more than anyone I know.

Click here to vote for any Supermom  The winner will receive the following amazing prizes*:

$500 Gift Certificate to Hayes and Fisk, the Art of Photography

Celebration for up to 20 friends and family at The Wine Loft in Richmond including wine, soft drinks and appetizers ($500)

Theatre IV/Barksdale Ticket package ($292):

-4 Tickets for Seussical at the Sara Belle and Neil November Theatre($128 value)
-2 Tickets for Spring Awakening at the Sara Belle and Neil November Theatre($88 value)
-2 Tickets for Nice People Dancing to Good Country Music at Hanover Tavern ($76 value)

Birthday Party for a child at Core Kids Academy ($255)

One-hour massage AND Facial from Massage Envy Spa Richmond ($166)

One-year membership to the VA Historical Society ($99)

One-year membership to the Science Museum of Virginia ($99)

Darling summer tote bag full of gifts from Clementine in Carytown ($80)

One-year membership to KidsDineFree.net ($80)

Two adult classes to Spirited Art Richmond ($70)

Four-hours of nanny care at College Nannies and Tutors ($70)

Facial to Massage Envy from Kidz Kare at Home ($70)

Gift certificate to Relay Foods ($50)

Gift certificate to Mom’s Treehouse ($50)

Gift certificate to Romp n’ Roll ($50)

One dozen cupcakes from Frostings, valued at $35.

Gift certificate to Weebsworld ($25)

One dozen chocolate dipped strawberries from Wild Greens Catering ($25)

*prizes may be subject to change slightly in item and/or value

Thank you, Stony Point Surgery Center, for sponsoring our annual Supermom contest!

Each year, in anticipation of Mother’s Day, our team encourages our readers all over Richmond to nominate great moms they know. This year, we’re fortunate to have Stony Point Surgery Center sponsor this contest. Prizes include $3,000 of great local swag & a celebration for the winning mom at The Wine Loft on 5/9/12!

Last year we celebrated with Richmond mom Jamye Tickle, who will this year’s Supermom be?

Do you

2011 SuperMom Winner Jamye Tickle

know a great Richmond mom?

1) Nominate any Richmond-area mom by clicking on this link through 4/14/12. You’ll have to provide information so we can contact both of you as the contest progresses. We’ll make a $5 donation to CJStuf.Org for every donation up to $500! CJ’s Thumbs Up Foundation grants $500 gifts to families suffering with illness in memory of Charlotte Reynolds who passed away at the tender age of four. Read more about Charlotte from her mom, Rachel Reynolds.

2) Vote for her and encourage friends to do the same 4/16-4/30. Each person may only vote once, so it’s simple and easy. We’ll send you the voting link once all the nominations are in.

3) The winner will be announced on 5/1/12, and may invite 20 friends and family to celebrate with her at our SuperMom Celebration at The Wine Loft on 5/9/12 where she’ll be treated to this amazing bunch of prizes*:

$500 Gift Certificate to Hayes and Fisk, the Art of Photography

Celebration for up to 20 friends and family at The Wine Loft in Richmond including wine, soft drinks and appetizers ($500)

Overnight Stay at Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg($300+)

Theatre IV/Barksdale Ticket package ($292):

-4 Tickets for Seussical at the Sara Belle and Neil November Theatre($128 value)
-2 Tickets for Spring Awakening at the Sara Belle and Neil November Theatre($88 value)
-2 Tickets for Nice People Dancing to Good Country Music at Hanover Tavern ($76 value)

Birthday Party for a child at Core Kids Academy ($255)

One-hour massage AND Facial from Massage Envy Spa Richmond ($166)

One-year membership to the VA Historical Society ($99)

One-year membership to the Science Museum of Virginia ($99)

Darling summer tote bag full of gifts from Clementine in Carytown ($80)

One-year membership to KidsDineFree.net ($80)

Two adult classes to Spirited Art Richmond ($70)

Four-hours of nanny care at College Nannies and Tutors ($70)

Five signed copies of Richmond Rocks ($65)

Facial to Massage Envy from Kidz Kare at Home ($70)

Gift certificate to Relay Foods ($50)

Gift certificate to Mom’s Treehouse ($50)

Gift certificate to Kindermusik ($50)

Gift certificate to Romp n’ Roll ($50)

One dozen cupcakes from Frostings, valued at $35.

Gift certificate to Weebsworld ($25)

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One dozen chocolate dipped strawberries from Wild Greens Catering ($25)

*prizes may be subject to change slightly in item and/or value