Phoebe Hunt’s music is a transformative experience guided by her spiritual foundation. She plays The Front Porch Sunday, September 2. Publicity photo
The songs of Phoebe Hunt & The Gatherers are tours de force of folk and alt-country, beautifully employing fast-paced fiddles and backing vocals on the group’s latest album, Shanti’s Shadow. Hunt’s music is a transformative experience guided by her spiritual foundation. “Though what I create may have its roots in my soul, it first has to pass through the filter of my body and ego before it finds a place in the world,” she says. “Knowing that, my goal for this album was to be as vulnerable and raw as possible in order to share my shadow.”
Sunday, September 2. $15, 8pm. The Front Porch, 221 E. Water St. 806-7062.
Atlanta-based artist Jacquees brings his silky, intimate tracks to the Sprint Pavilion on Sunday, September 2. Publicity photo
Creating beats in hip-hop is essential, but Jacquees takes his music a step further by creating moods for each of his songs. The Atlanta-based musician’s silky, intimate tracks submerge you in a peaceful ocean of R&B; from the lilting hit “B.E.D.” to the angstier “Before the Fame,” they all carry the same feel-good aura along with an understated energy—a combination for grooving.
Sunday, September 2. $30-40, 7pm. Sprint Pavilion, 700 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. 245-4910.
Local singer-songwriter Adar transcends genres at IX Art Park on Thursday, August 30. Publicity photo
When a band’s music is described as genre-defying, it often means its musicians are struggling to find a successful sound. In the case of Adar, the local singer-songwriter does transcend genres and her songs successfully incorporate several types of music—funk, rock, and jazz—to create a smooth, innovative blend of sounds. Virginia funk acts Funktional Electrik and Choose Your Own Adventure round out the show.
Thursday, August 30. $8, 8pm. IX Art Park, 522 Second St. SE. 970-3260.
When James Fields allegedly drove his car into the crowd on Fourth Street, he also smashed into a Toyota Camry. Photo by Eze Amos
In an August 21 hearing in Charlottesville Circuit Court, Commonwealth’s Attorney Joe Platania took an unusual seat—in the defendant’s chair—with his files resting on a table on the left side of the room, while another man took Platania’s usual seat on the right.
William Evans, a Fairfax attorney representing himself, is suing the commonwealth’s attorney for access to two videos of the August 12, 2017, car attack that the prosecution showed in an open courtroom at driver James Fields’ preliminary hearing in December, then submitted as evidence, and removed from the public file.
“It’s really one of the more unusual cases I’ve ever been involved in,” said Judge Rick Moore at the hearing. Evans had submitted approximately 20 relevant cases for the judge to read, and Moore said from the 10 he scoured in full, he was introduced to issues and points of law he was never aware of.
William Evans
Evans has argued that, even in a criminal trial, videos that have been shown to the public in a courtroom, with their contents reported on by multiple news outlets, should be available for anyone who wishes to see them. The two specific videos he’s after are Virginia State Police helicopter footage of Fields plowing his car into dozens of counterprotesters, and surveillance video of the incident from Red Pump Kitchen on Fourth Street.
Evans, who seems to have his own theory of what happened before and during that attack in Charlottesville (according to videos posted on his YouTube channel called SonofNewo), submitted a Freedom of Information Act request to the city and to Platania to view the videos shown in court, and both were denied. He says the reports he’s read of the videos’ content are contradictory.
Moore told Evans that FOIA exemptions in criminal cases often exist for “public welfare and justice…not just because we don’t want you messing in our papers.”
Evans says all he’s asking to see are portions of videos already shown in an open court, which the prosecution relied on as evidence.
“That’s all you’re asking to see?” asked the judge. “That’s all I’ve ever wanted to see,” said Evans, who also sued the city in a separate suit, over the same two videos.
The videos aren’t currently in the file for seemingly unknown reasons, though it was disclosed that assistant prosecutor Nina-Alice Antony remembers making a verbal motion to withdraw the videos at the end of the December preliminary hearing, which isn’t documented in the official court transcript.
In felony cases certified to the grand jury, Moore said all documents are sent to the clerk of the respective circuit court, unless there’s a decision to seal the record. But Evans says there is no record of an order to seal the evidence.
On why the commonwealth won’t just turn over the videos, Platania says, “When balancing public access to information with a defendant’s Sixth Amendment right to a fair trial by an impartial jury, this office will always err on the side of non-disclosure unless otherwise directed by a court of competent jurisdiction.”
The judge granted Evans’ motion to intervene in the Fields’ trial and to argue for the public’s right to access those two videos.
As they ran out of time and Evans agreed to appear at the October docket call to set another date to continue, the judge pondered the importance of granting Evans and the rest of the community a chance to see the videos.
“What is the harm of the public not seeing a 13th versionof this?” Moore said. “What is the public really going to care about this?”
Evans said he felt like the hearing went well.
He added, “Really, this is all kind of plowing new ground in terms of Virginia FOIA law.”
Gold Connections plays tracks from its latest record, Popular Fiction, at The Southern Cafe and Music Hall on Friday, August 31. Publicity photo
Many associate Will Marsh’s band Gold Connections with Car Seat Headrest thanks to several collaborations, but Marsh’s group stands solidly on its own. After a label switch,
the long-awaited release of Popular Fiction arrived in 2018, marking an impressive step forward. The album shows off the group’s broad musical range and challenging lyrics that address everything from Greek mythology to world religions.
When it comes to dining out on the Corner, you can’t go wrong with The Pigeon Hole’s biscuits with creamy red-eyed gravy and two eggs over easy. Photo by Tom McGovern
By Sashank Sankar
With a new school year comes a new group of university students eager to explore Charlottesville. For most of them, their first stop is the Corner, an area of shops, restaurants, bars, and coffee spots on the edge of UVA’s Central Grounds.
The Corner has long been a popular hangout for students and faculty alike, given its location and its wide variety of food. It’s the place to enjoy an afternoon of leisure between classes, a relaxing lunch break, or a night out. Some of the Corner’s more popular spots serve Charlottesville food staples: the locally owned (and nationally beloved) Bodo’s Bagels, Trinity Irish Pub, Boylan Heights, Roots Natural Kitchen, and Got Dumplings, to name just a few.
And there are plenty of other eateries on the Corner that will satisfy your appetite. Whether this is your annual reminder or first timer’s primer on what to eat around the university, here’s a list of several sometimes-overlooked gems—places to check out when you’re too hungry to wait in the out-the-door line at Bodo’s.
The Pigeon Hole
11 Elliewood Ave.
This tiny restaurant is a perfect breakfast or brunch spot, and it has all the classics—biscuits (with red-eyed gravy!), huevos rancheros, pancakes, and French toast. And if you’re really running on empty, go for the Sunrise Burrito.
Armando’s Mexican Restaurant
105 14 St. NW
A relative newbie on the Corner, Armando’s provides solid Mexican fare for a good price. It’s also a perfect spot if you (and your wallet) are in the mood for something simple. Pro tip: The enchiladas poblanas are a must.
Take It Away Sandwich Shop
115 Elliewood Ave.
Take It Away is the place to go for a tasty, inexpensive sandwich on bread that’s not a Bodo’s bagel. This small shop has a variety of options for both meat-lovers and vegans, and its house dressing—used as a sandwich spread—is legendary. There’s a hefty offering of classic sandwiches, but you can also build your own, so the world is your oyster (er, sandwich).
Lemongrass
104 14 St. NW
Tucked underneath a parking deck, Lemongrass offers Thai and Japanese cuisine that is healthy and fairly affordable. It might not seem like an obvious place to eat, but we’re betting it will become your go-to after you’ve tried a rice bowl, the curry, or a noodle platter. And if you’re looking for something slightly different, you can’t go wrong with the pineapple fried rice.
Michael’s Bistro
and Tap House
1427 University Ave.
Located on the second floor above Little John’s, Michael’s Bistro offers American cuisine and plenty of beverage options. If you’re in the mood for something savory and salty, try the Green Goddess Grilled Cheese, made with pesto, avocado, and arugula. And when the weather’s nice, ask to sit on the balcony—the view from there is tough to beat.
In images like this one, photographer Richard Needham explores judgement, fear, fashion, and analog film in his show at Studio IX. Photo courtesy of the artist
Before meeting on the patio outside Kardinal Hall, Richard Needham worried about his outfit. He thought his white jeans might be too feminine, or that his “There is no planet B” T-shirt and rope necklace with a C-shaped bear claw tied to the end might be too much of a conversation-starter.
“It’s a double-edge sword. People tell me, ‘Well, a bear is your spirit animal.’ But this real bear died,” Needham explains. “A reindeer herder in Mongolia gave it to me. It’s like a talisman. I feel some sort of power when I wear it against my chest.”
Needham’s work as a documentary filmmaker and photographer has taken him around the world—from photographing Tsaatan nomadic reindeer herders in northern Mongolia, and teams of polo players who compete on elephants in Moo Baan Chang, Thailand, to filming 60 professional dancers with artist Dara Friedman on the streets of Miami. He credits Friedman and her focus on fashion, the human body, and street art as a large influence on “My Fellow Man: Don’ttalk to strangers,” his upcoming show at Studio IX.
“Everyone is a photographer now. You just pick up your phone,” says Needham. “It’s not mindful. The show is a meditation.”
In his latest images, Needham walked around densely populated areas—usually the Downtown Mall, though some images are from trips to Seattle and Walla Walla, Washington. He approached individuals who he found himself judging at first glance, whether positively or negatively, and asked if he could take their photograph. If they consented, and Needham found that most people did, he would photograph and record an audio interview with them. Needham’s creativity is influenced by his social anxiety about approaching strangers, his self-judgment that he “isn’t particularly good at words,” and his worry about the speed at which our world moves.
Photo courtesy of artist
The questions in each interview varied depending on the individual, ranging from “What’s troubling you right now?” to “What message would you like to share with people looking at your photograph?” Needham will display text from interviewees next to their portraits in the show, leaving the dialogue largely unedited.
The photographer, who has an MFA in film production from the University of Miami’s School of Communication, appreciates the ability to replicate the beauty of natural speech and cadence of human dialogue.
“My Fellow Man: Don’ttalk to strangers”
Opens September 7 at Studio IX
“I was surprised that politics wasn’t as much on the forefront,” Needham says of his conversations. “The current climate is there, but people appreciated the attempt to connect when it seems like social media is all there is. In a single sentence, everyone’s battling for dominance on social media. This [show] is the antithesis of that. It’s analog.”
It’s about connecting with people and humanizing them, and taking a moment to slow everything down—which is exactly what Needham had to do while using a Pentax 67 camera. It’s a large, 40-year old medium-format film camera that weighs five pounds. Needham says the camera takes a long time to focus, and makes a loud sound he describes as a “ka-lunk” when the shutter opens and closes.
Artists don’t traditionally use the Pentax 67 camera to capture street images, Needham says, though it is used often to take full-body fashion shots in a studio.
And Needham’s images resonate with fashion or photo journalism spreads that viewers might see in Vogue or Vanity Fair with subjects confronting the camera with confidence, comfortable in their own skin. As viewers stare back at them, Needham’s anxiety, discomfort, and fear become tangible. Needham says that in a certain sense, “these are all portraits of me.”
Photo courtesy of the artist
“With digital cameras, you’re always looking at the past. With this camera, I had no idea what I got. It’s very forward,” says Needham, who usually takes one or two shots of each of his subjects. “I like that way of looking at it. It’s frightening and scary. Fear is the whole project.”
One of Needham’s most forward moments involved Valerian and Elliott, the two individuals in the show’s title image. In the image, Valerian wears a floral maxi dress, a straw sun hat, white gloves flecked with red, and a beard past vis collarbone. Elliott wears a black graphic T-shirt, gray slacks, and sunglasses—both are smiling.
“I saw them walking down the street while I was driving, so I pulled around the block, parked, and had to run to catch up to them,” Needham remembers.
Despite his anxieties, Needham is moved by the experience of talking to his subjects, and he encourages others to do the same thing. “Go first. Say hello first. Be the one to say hello when you’re in an awkward situation.”
Here’s where the rubber meets the road on this whole “buy local” business: Go into a big chain store and the jewelry displayed before you is the same as the jewelry displayed before shoppers in Urbandale, Iowa, or Maricopa, Arizona. In other words, it’s nothing special. And, we’re willing to bet, the person behind the counter knows very little about each piece beyond what he’s recited to customers every day for the last year and a half. That’s why readers choose Andrew Minton, who helps them understand each facetof jewelry-buying, from diamondsand pearls to custom pieces madein-house. On Millmont Street, family-owned Schwarzschild offers more than 100 years of experience in luxury watches and estate jewelry.
HOME STORE
HomeGoods
Runner-up: Circa
Honorable mention: The Habitat Store
Sometimes the best plan you can have is no plan at all, and that works out well for readers, who say that HomeGoods—that 29th Place mecca for pillows, pitchers, rugs and rustic outdoor furniture—is their go-to spot for a room refresh, even if they don’t exactly know which direction to go just yet. French country? Modern glam? The décor chain encourages keeping your options open. In McIntire Plaza, browsing Circa’s 10,000 square feet will always turn up a treasure.
CONSIGNMENT SHOP
Darling Boutique
Runner-up: ReThreads
Honorable mention: Kid to Kid
The secret to Darling owner Linnea White’s success? Besides a major sense of style (and consequently stylish inventory from clothing to locally made accessories), we’d wager it’s social media. The downtown shop owner shows off her #darlingfinds @shopatdarling on Instagram, as well as co-founded @bossbabes cville, a collective of local female business owners and entrepreneurs. Speaking of, Melissa Meece’sReThreads takes the second place spot with her robust collection of new-to-you pieces in McIntire Plaza.
PLACE FOR A DRESS
Belk
Runner-up: Anthropologie
Honorable mention: BitterSweet
Look in just the “dress” category on Belk’s website and you’ll find more than 3,000—that’s three thousand—options. Fit and flare, casual, bodycon, homecoming, cocktail, sweater… No wonder readers say Belk is best for everything from a LBD to a cotton shift. For the more creative dressers (with deeper pockets), runner-up Anthro stocks frocks with unique patterns, textures and silhouettes for women who are too cool for trends, but still want to look (and feel) beautiful.
PLACE FOR KIDS’ GEAR
Old Navy
Runner-up: Kid to Kid
Honorable mention: Shenanigans
Let’s be honest: Kids grow at such a rapid pace that what fits little Bowen-Arrow this week might not fit her in a few more, which is why readers refuse to pay more than a pocketful of loose change to outfit her in the latest trends. Old Navy, you say, is the go-to spot. The Barracks Road chain offers deep—and frequent—discounts on everything from onesies to knock-off Vans. At consignment chain Kid to Kid, parents stock up on everything their little one needs, cribs, clothes, toys and hair accessories included.
Photo: Stephen Barling
WINE SHOP
Market Street Wine
Runner-up: Wegmans
Honorable mention: Trader Joe’s
When Market Street Wineshop owner Robert Harllee announced in early 2018 that he was selling his downtown shop, local oenophiles shuddered to think that the charming store, with its Friday tastings and local bread and cheese offerings, might be lost forever. But true fans knew better: New owners and longtime employees Sian Richards and Thadd McQuade wouldn’t fix what wasn’t broke. They did make a few minor adjustments: Now called Market Street Wine, the store boasts new floors and a rearranged shelving system. Over at Wegmans, shoppers choose booze from all over the world. What pairs with kale-and-quinoa cakes?
LOCALLY OWNED GROCERY STORE
Foods of All Nations
Runner-up: Feast!
Honorable mention: Reid Super-Save Market
Whether you’re an expat looking for a taste of your home country or just a curious foodie hoping to surprise guests with an unforgettable treat, you agree that Foods of All Nations has what you’re looking for (and even what you’re not). Beyond dry goods from every corner of the world, the Ivy Road shop stocks fresh-made sushi, prepared foods to go and a full deli with some of the most reliable sandos in town. Runner-up Feast! has been doling out quality samples from Spanish manchego to country ham—as well as offering the best from local purveyors—from Main Street Market for more than 16 years.
CHAIN GROCERY STORE
Wegmans
Runner-up: Trader Joe’s
Honorable mention: Whole Foods Market
If we picture our former grocery store as a paramour, we can imagine that the day we left it behind for Wegmans was a tough one: We’re sorry, baby. It’s not you; it’s just that Wegmans makes it so easy to, like, be myself, y’know? Like my true self, the one who feels like Marathon bread is its own food group, and who doesn’t like chopping up veggies to make a mirepoix. We’vehad a really good run, but I just needto see where this goes. Of course we’dnever say that to Trader Joe’s, though, which comes in second for its Everything But The Bagel seasoning and affordable wine section (among other things).
INDEPENDENT BOOKSTORE
New Dominion Bookshop
Runner-up: Blue Whale Books
Honorable mention: Read It Again Sam
The oldest independent bookseller in Virginia (the shop opened in 1924 and moved to its current spot on the Downtown Mall, a former shoe store, in 1926), New Dominion carries on a decades-old tradition of matching reader to reading material. Owner Julia Kudravetz does so by hosting regular events and continuing a tradition of thoughtfully curating the store’s collection of fiction, non-fiction, children’s literature and informative coffee table books. A few blocks down, at Blue Whale, find tomes on Thomas Jefferson, Virginia history and architecture, including rare hardcovers.
GIFT SHOP
O’Suzannah
Runner-up: The Virginia Shop
Honorable mention: Rock Paper Scissors
Since 1996, shop owner Suzannah Fischer has been stocking her shelves with a playful, joyful array of, well, just about everything you might want (or want to give)—scarves, candles, soaps, jewelry dishes, jewelry!, purses, books, stationery, figurines—each display after the next arranged by color to delight (if not mesmerize) you. To expand on her downtown shop’s offerings, in mid-2018, Fischer opened O’Suz For Littles on Second Street NE, so finding something for your best friend’s new baby is as easy as snapping a onesie (even easier, probably, if you factor in the squirming). Across town at The Virginia Shop, snag a postcard depicting Monticello or a tin of real Virginia peanuts.
NURSERY/GARDEN STORE
Ivy Nursery
Runner-up: Fifth Season Gardening
Honorable mention: Snow’s Garden Center
Owners Clare and George Carter have spent the last 43 years cultivating such a beautiful scene at their shop off Ivy Road that even novice gardeners feel compelled to give it two black thumbs up. The landscape architects opened the store shortly after graduating from UVA with three goals in mind: provide the freshest, most beautiful plants and flowers they could find; hire folks who knew what they were talking about and could advise those who didn’t; and provide helpful design and horticulture guidance. More than four decades in, they’re still the standout. Fifth Season Gardening, in the No. 2 spot, rules the garden scene inside city limits with garden fixins’, urban DIY equipment and landscape décor.
Photo: Stephen Barling
LOCAL SPORTING GOODS STORE
Blue Ridge Cyclery
Runner-up: Great Outdoor Provision Co.
Honorable mention: Mincer’s
Few shops do bikes like Shawn Tevendale and his team do bikes. Since 2010, the Preston Avenue and Hollymead Town Center retailer has serviced, sold and rented rides, not to mention led group road, dirt and gravel treks of its own. Needless to say, at BRC, it’s ride or die. Meanwhile, Virginia and North Carolina chain Great Outdoor Provision Co. helps get you outfitted for camping, hiking, fishing, paddling and more.
LOCALLY OWNED PET SUPPLY STORE
Pet Supplies Plus
Runner-up: Crate & Marrow
Honorable mention: Pet Food Discounters
We wouldn’t trade couch snuggles and slobbery kisses for anything, but we’ll admit that even the cutest, sweetest, smooshiest wittle wub-wub face can be a drain on the finances, not to mention—gasp!—kind of an inconvenience sometimes. Readers say Pet Supplies Plus is their go-to spot for easy shopping for food, health care and pet grooming. In Stonefield, Crate & Marrow offersall-natural, organic food and treats for your furry friend, plus collars, leashes and toys.
PLACE TO BUY A CAR
Umansky Automotive Group
Runner-up: CarMax
Honorable mention: Jim Price
As the woman in the commercials sings, “Brown, Brown, Brown, you’ll love the service.” And that rings true even after Dan Umansky, a Memphis-based dealership owner, bought the Brown fleet in fall of 2017. Umansky, who employs 850 people across 16 dealerships, hasn’t changed much about the popular car shop—prospective buyers are still greeted bythe same faces and still peruse the familiar selection of brands. And, of course, they can expect the samereliable service. On Pantops, powerhouse chain CarMax gives buyers affordable used and new options.
PLACE TO BUY A SUIT
The Men’s & Boy’s Shop
Runner-up: JoS. A. Bank
Honorable mention: Beecroft & Bull
Woe that good service is so missing from the modern-day shopping experience that a trip to The Men’s & Boy’s Shop feels like traveling back through time, but that’s part of its charm. The Downtown Mall store prides itself on attentiveness, consideration of details and reliability. And, if that’s not enough, the shop offers free alterations for the life of the suit you buy. In Barracks Road Shopping Center, runner-up Jos. A. Bank stocks suits, separates and design-your-own pieces.
A fun fact about Adam Donovan-Groves? As a child, he attended Astronaut High School near the Kennedy Space Center in Florida. It’s not what you think—kids here aren’t preparing for space travel—but it might explain his meteoric rise in the local wedding planning industry. Having been in business for just over four years (with a background in event planning at Keswick Hall), DGE has offices in Georgetown and New York, as well as Charlottesville, and serves couples all over the globe. Orpha Events’ Marisa Vrooman takes the No. 2 spot for her stunning work in everything from destination weddings to nonprofit events.
Photo: Jen Fariello
WEDDING VENUE
Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards
Runner-up: King Family Vineyards
Honorable mention: Keswick Vineyards
Having already been in the wedding industry for nearly two decades as a planner, it seemed a natural fit that Lynn Easton and her husband, Dean Andrews, would open their own venue. Of course, as with everything under the Easton Porter Group umbrella, Pippin is part of a luxury brand—and you get what you pay for. A big day here doesn’t come without a hefty price tag, but readers agree it’s worth it for the barn-inspired reception space, rolling landscape, expert catering and practically everywhere you look, the high touch details Easton is known for. In Crozet, King Family offers couples a versatile space and, most importantly, its award-winning wines (see Best Local Winery).
REHEARSAL DINNER VENUE
Old Metropolitan Hall
Runner-up: The Local
Honorable mention: Ivy Inn
When Old Metropolitan Hall opened its door in 2013, affianced couples in Charlottesville and beyond were swooning for its mirrored back wall, sparkly chandeliers and cellar bar, carved from the building’s basement and transformed into an intimate space with black and white tile floors, built-in benches and a mirror displaying the venue’s name in vintage type. But the deal got even sweeter in 2017, when the Downtown Mall venue partnered with neighbor Brasserie Saison to provide in-house catering. Over in Belmont, The Local offers charming ambience and a Southern menu worth dishing over.
PHOTOGRAPHER
Jen Fariello
Runner-up: Sarah Cramer Shields
Honorable mention: Ashley Cox
Thanks to Instagram, these days practically everyone and their mother thinks he can be a photographer. Until, that is, you see work from a pro, someone who has studied and honed the craft for decades and makes you realize it takes more than the Valencia filter to create a good picture—someone like Jen Fariello, who after 22 years in the business continues tochurn out beautiful portraits of local couples, whether it’s an engagement session in a downpour or a post-wedding stroll across the Lawn. Fellow UVA grad Sarah Cramer Shields lends an expert eye toward capturing the most important moments of your big day.
CINEMATOGRAPHER
Ian’s Creations
Runner-up: Tom Daly
Honorable mention: Orpha Films
We open with a drone shot over the vines of Keswick Vineyards. We see a fountain bubbling with clear water. We watch a child hurriedly scatter petals down the aisle. For four years in a row, readers have agreed that Ian’s Creations’ Ian Atkins captures the details that often go overlooked and presents them in—for lack of a better term —a cinematic moving picture of your most special day. In second place, Tom Daly weaves ninja-like through the crowds to catch your favorite moments (and then some) from start to finish.
CATERER
Harvest Moon Catering
Runner-up: Exchange Events & Catering
Honorable mention: The Local
When we talk about personalizing a wedding, usually that means koozies customized with the couple’s name and wedding date, or a guest book with pictures from their travels for friends and family to sign. But there are other ways to add your stamp to the big day, starting with food. Harvest Moon, readers say, check all the boxes on requests for specialized menus (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free), and embrace creative challenges like incorporating family recipes. Don’t expect any vegan options from BBQ Exchange’s catering arm (unless you count the homemade pickles)—though the Gordonsville spot’s slow-roasted pork may be worth a carnivorous switch.
FLORIST
Hedge Fine Blooms
Runner-up: Southern Blooms by Pat’s Floral Design
Honorable mention: Don’s Florist & Gifts
There are two requirements of a big-day bouquet: that it be beautiful and that it last long. Readers agree Hedge delivers on both, creating dreamy arrangements—for centerpieces, aisle décor, wedding arches and the bridal bouquet —that still look fresh after hours of photographs, sitting in direct sunlight and the traditional bouquet toss. Southern Blooms’30+ years in the biz means the Madison company never disappoints, crafting works of art from garden-style flowers, fruits and vines.
Photo: Jen Fariello
TENTS AND RENTALS
Skyline Tent Company
Runner-up: MS Events
Honorable mention: Festive Fare
They’re not just for rain, you know. A beautiful Sperry tent from Skyline—those carnival-y sailcloth toppers with pennant flags flying—can actually steal the show (sorry, lovers). The Charlottesville and Charleston, South Carolina, company has been erecting shelters for more than 15 years at corporate events, festivals and, of course, weddings, be they vinyl, sailcloth or even harder structures with a glass ceiling. Of course, once the tent’s up, you’ll need a few things to fill it. Readers turn to MS Events for everything from chargers and china to linens and lounge furniture.
CAKES AND DESSERTS
Albemarle Baking Company
Runner-up: Chandler’s Bakery
Honorable mention: Cakes by Rachel
C&O has steak Chinoise, Continental Divide has margaritas, Bodo’s has the deli egg—if there’sone “dish” Albemarle Baking Company is known for, it has to be the princess cake. Layers of moist vanilla sponge cake and Bavarian buttercream, blanketed with a sheet of sugary, almondy marzipan and topped with a pink rosette. There’s almost no other choice when it comes to a wedding day confection, though the West Main Street bakery can create just about anything you dream up. For a more traditional take, runner-up Chandler’s Bakery whips up layers from German chocolate to banana nut.
BAND (OR BOOKING AGENCY)
Sam Hill Entertainment
Runner-up: Love Canon
Honorable mention: 20 South Productions
It might be a dangerous game, mixing business with pleasure, but it’s worked for Sam Hill founder Hank Wells since 1995, when a hobby of booking bands for everything from fraternity events to corporate functions turned into a successful company that connects live performers with audiences across the U.S. In second place, acoustic-roots-meets-’80s-pop band Love Canon, who readers say always get their toes a-tappin’.
DJ (OR BOOKING AGENCY)
Kevin Graham (DJ for All Occasions)
Runner-up: John Garland DJ Services
Honorable mention: Derek J Tobler
If you like Michael Jackson, Kevin Graham is your guy. Not to say that he won’t play today’s top hits at your reception, too (see Best Local Radio Personality), but MJ is overwhelmingly his favorite. He’s even admitted to owning a cardboard cut-out (or two) of the King of Pop. We can’t confirm thatGraham won’t bring one to the wedding, but at least you won’t have to pay for an extra plate. Runner-up John Garland has a music library of more than 30,000 songs at his fingertips, all of which are ready to keep your party bumpin’.
CEREMONY MUSICIAN
Charlottesville High School String Quartet
Runner-up: Travis Elliott
Honorable mention: Plum Blossom String Quartet
There’s something so charming about employing a group of high schoolers to perform at your reception, but make no mistake: These aren’t your regular high schoolers. By the time they’re rising seniors—like the kids in Chestnut Oak, one of the quartets in the current CHS string ensemble —many of them have already performed in world-class venues suchas the Chartres Cathedral in France or St. Mary’s Church in Killarney, Ireland. In other words, they’re practically pros. In the runner-up spot, alt-rock guitarist Travis Elliott delivers on a less traditional start to your big day.
Photo: Jen Fariello
SOUND AND LIGHTING
Blue Ridge Event Production
Runner-up: MS Events
Honorable mention: The AV Company
When you picture your special day, you think dress, food, invitations—not necessarily a spotlight in the shape of your initials or a crystal chandelier descending over a table. But lighting may be the unsung hero of your reception, adding intimacy or glamour. Again this year, readers say Blue Ridge—which specializes not only in accents like pin spots, LEDs and logo lights but also digital recording and video services—lights up their life. Nabbing the red ribbon, MS Events takes its usual décor offerings to the next level, with bistro lighting, uplights, pipe and drape and more.
OFFICIANT
Dave Norris
Runner-up: Claire Frances
Honorable mention: Kate Adamson
“We got married by the mayor,” some couples can say. Of course, Dave Norris hasn’t been Charlottesville’s mayor since 2011, but the qualities that got him the job aren’t lost on those looking to say “I do” in Charlottesville. Norris is happy to work toward a ceremony you feel good about, whether traditional or more personalized. Runner-up Claire Frances will do the same. As an ordained interfaith minister, she relishes customizing a ceremony to your unique specifications, which she’s been doing since 2004 for more than 900 weddings.
INVITES/CALLIGRAPHY
Rock Paper Scissors
Runner-up: T&N Printing
Honorable mention: If So INKlined
Often said to be the first taste your guests get of the wedding to come—and whether it’s formal, casual or a little quirky—the invitations play a pretty important role in setting the tone. But not only that, the experts at Rock Paper Scissors help dream up the entire paper suite, from programs to signage, sometimes even with custom art from co-owner and designer Dani Antol. Readers turn to T&N for affordable printing (hey, all that paper don’t come cheap!) and the kind of friendly service only a family-run business can provide.
WEDDING JEWELRY
Andrew Minton Jewelers
Runner-up: Fink’s Jewelers and Schwarzschild Keller & George Jewelers (tie)
Honorable mention: Tuel Jewelers
Buying your wedding jewelry—be it the engagement ring, wedding band or earrings for the brideon her big day—is serious business and, in many cases, a serious investment. And that’s exactly how Andrew Minton and his team treat it when you walk in the door, taking the time to explain cut, color, clarity and cost for novice diamond-buyers. And if you’re interested in an heirloom, they also repair and restring pearl jewelry, so Nana’s necklace can be your something old. Over at Fink’s, find name brands like David Yurman, Forevermark and even Rolex, while Schwarzschild offers everything from rings and necklaces to men’s watches.
While the local wedding industry is booming, it’s a wonder there aren’t more local options for wedding attire. No matter, say brides. SWAK has just what they’re looking for, from simple silhouettes to intricate beading and, since launching an in-house design armearlier in 2018, custom pieces. Store owner Susan Sorbello launched Sorbello Couture, putting her fashion design background to good use creating one-of-a-kind pieces. Speaking of custom, Ayvazyan & de Beauvoir helps you dream big, with stunning designs for brides looking for a unique work of art. In Fishersville, Amanda’s Touch stocks a reasonably priced selection of gowns for brides and ’maids.
HAIR STYLIST
Erica Haskins (Top Knot Studio)
Runner-up: Brianna B. Adams
Honorable mention: Daphne Latham
You, but better. That should always be the goal when you (or your mom or your eight bridesmaids) sit in the hair chair on your big dayand that’s what readers agree they get when Erica Haskins is at the brush. Be they classic chignons orcascades of curls down your back,the Top Knot owner’s creations capture the mood and beauty of the bride who wears them (and they stay put for hours on end, as if by magic). Brianna Adams, in second place, delivers on soft, romantic updos.
MAKEUP ARTIST
Evonne Burns
Runner-up: Daphne Latham
Honorable mention: Nikki Fayolle
We’re not saying a turn in the makeup chair is the reason to get married, but your big day is certainly a perfect excuse to be treated like a Kardashian (hey, those ladies know from weddings). At the expert hand of Evonne Burns, who’s been in the business more than 25 years, you’ll be ready for your close-up. Runner-up Daphne Latham, whose credentials also include powdering the faces of Dave Matthews and Howie Long (among others), strengthens your star power.
GIFTS AND FAVORS
Gearharts Fine Chocolates
Runner-up: The Virginia Shop
Honorable mention: Feast!
The new trend in late-night treats for guests—a donut truck, milk and cookies, even McDonald’s hamburgers (we’ve seen it first-hand) —capitalizes on a universal truth: After a few drinks, it’s time for a snack. Savvy couples killtwo birds with one stone by sending guests back to the hotel with a take-hometreat and, again this year, they agreethere’s no better option than a two- pack of local sweets from sweetheart Gearharts chocolates. At The Virginia Shop, find more edibles, from peanuts to popcorn, plus touristy trinkets from the Commonwealth. It’s for lovers, after all.
Photo: Jen Fariello
TRANSPORTATION
Albemarle Limousine
Runner-up: C’ville Hop On Tours
Honorable mention: Camryn Limousine
Whether you’re pulling away from the rollicking landscape of Pippin Hill or the Corinthian columns of Keswick Vineyards, hopping in the old Toyota Corolla might take a bit of magic out of the moment, especially when the other details of your wedding—the custom foil invitations, the personalized cake topper—were so intentional. Enter Albemarle Limousine, who since 2008 has kept couples riding in style, in everything from a vintage Fleetwood Cadillac to a 1946 Marc IV Jaguar. Runner-up Hop on Tours is a solution for pre-wedding celebrations: Gather your wedding party and board the 14-passenger bus for customized rides to breweries, wineries and then some.
It was over a cup of tea and a fifth of Evan Williams that Koda Kerl and Marie Borgman decided to form Chamomile & Whiskey in the winter of 2011. Since then, the band —which also includes banjo, bass, drums and electric guitar in addition to Kerl’s guitar and Borgman’s fiddle—has released two albums and toured extensively, playing its signature bluegrass folk and earning accolades for its drunken Irish sound to tune-smithing. Erin & The Wildfire, with its rock-soul-funk sound, is this year’s runner-up.
MUSIC VENUE
The Jefferson Theater
Runner-up: Sprint Pavilion
Honorable mention: John Paul Jones Arena
An extensive renovation in 2009 returned the Jefferson to its former glory as a stage for famous performers like Harry Houdini and The Three Stooges, restoring its architecture while modernizing the space for a new audience. Almost 10 years later, it still shines thanks to its two full-service bars, sophisticated lighting system and five-star acoustics owing to the high ceilings and sloped floor. Last year saw acts from Tig Notaro to Yonder Mountain String Band to Yo La Tengo take the spotlight. In second place, another venue in the Coran Capshaw empire: Sprint Pavilion, where crowds love gathering during the warmer months for concerts en plein air.
ART GALLERY
IX Art Park
Runner-up: Second Street Gallery
Honorable mention: The Fralin Museum of Art
You won’t find placards with explanations of the artist’s vision here. Nor will you feel the need to be especially quiet, in reverence to the work—just ask the kids you’ll inevitably find running around (see Best Kids’ Park). No, IX Art Park encourages more than your typical art gallery allows, because IX itself is pretty darn atypical. It’s not everywhere you find a living jungle gym or a bench made from borrowable books, after all, and that’s exactly why it takes the prize. In second place, Second Street Gallery challenges its viewers, too, with provocative work from contemporary artists, as well as lectures, tours and workshops.
DAY TRIP
Shenandoah National Park
Runner-up: Carter Mountain Orchard
Honorable mention: Richmond
In fall of 2017, the National Park Service announced a huge increase in entrance fees. At Shenandoah National Park, that would have meant a $40 bump per vehicle, to $70 from $30. The proposal, however, was met with public outcry and the NPS’ final decision settled on a $5 increase during peak season, ensuring that the 200,000-acre park (500 miles of hiking trails included) could continue to be enjoyed by many each year. Second place stop Carter Mountain boasts fruit orchards, donuts, wine and a country market, plus a view over Charlottesville proper.
TRIVIA NIGHT
Mellow Mushroom
Runner-up: Random Row Brewing Company
Honorable mention: Firefly
There are a few things to know if you want to succeed at Mellow Mushroom’s Wednesday night trivia (besides the answers to the trivia questions, that is, which can range in topic from art and literature to math and sports): First, get there early. The action starts at 9pm, but true players show up by 8. Next, follow @MellowCville on Twitter to get the night’s theme for a team name. And last, don’t forget to order pretzel bites. …Wait. We don’t need to tell you this—you’re a bunch of know-it-alls anyway. Youprobably even know that, across town, Random Row’s Sunday trivia night with Geeks Who Drink also keeps crowds guessing.
What do we want? Booze! When do we want it? At the movies! That seems to be the mantra this year, at least, as Violet Crown and Alamo —two theaters where you can drinkwhile you watch—take the top prizes. Downtown at Violet Crown, grab some avocado spring rolls or a chicken pesto pizza with your Barboursville Pinot before settling into your cushyreserved seat (hint: The front row reclines!). At Alamo, raise your order card for a Bee’s Kiss—rum, honey, vanilla ice cream, Honeycomb cereal—and bottomless popcorn.
Photo: Martyn Kyle
LOCAL THEATER (LIVE)
Live Arts
Runner-up: American Shakespeare Center (Staunton)
Honorable mention:
IX Art Park
Known for pushing the boundaries of what it means to be a local performance space, Live Arts impresses again this year with its commitment to forging community and theater. With the hiring of its new producing artistic director, Bree Luck, came a vow for the 2018-2019 season to reverse an oft-seen ratio: This year, nearly 80 percent of the productions are written or conceived by a woman or person of color, because theater—like community—should welcome everyone. Over Staunton way, ASC gives thespians an authentic experience, bringing to bear the Bard’s best work in a replica Globe theater.
LOCAL RADIO STATION
Hot 101.9
Runner-up: 91.9 WNRN
Honorable mention: 99.7 CYK
The feather in Monticello Media’s cap (along with honorable mention 99.7), Hot 101.9 hit the Ruckersville airwaves in 1990 and, in the years since, has kept listeners engaged with contemporary pop hits from morning to night. Get a jumpstart when you wake up from the morning zoo—Elvis Duran and company—followed by best radio DJ Kevin Graham (see below) and then “PJ in the PM,” PJ Styles’ afternoon offering from 3 to 7pm. If you turn the dial to 91.9, listener-supported WNRN gives you a little bit of everything, from blues and rock to country and alt-Latino.
LOCAL RADIO PERSONALITY
Kevin Graham (Hot 101.9)
Runner-up: Sherry Taylor (Z95.1)
Honorable mention: Tom Morgan (99.7 CYK)
Kevin Graham is your guide to midday listening, hosting Hot 101.9’s 10am to 3pm slot. Not surprisingly, he’s also your pick for wedding DJ (see Weddings). Safe to say, the man is pretty immersedin music, and has been for a while: He started DJ for All Occasions back in 2004 and serves couples from here to Fredericksburg. In the runner-up spot, Sherry Taylor wakes up early to play you the hitsfrom 5 to 10am. This includes Impossible Trivia, a segment during which the 25-year radio pro asks listeners questions like “We spend about 18 minutes a day thinking about what?” and “Statistics show you’re likely to make more than $2,000 extra per year if you have what trait?” At least we know where to listen for the answer.
LOCAL TV PERSONALITY
Josh Fitzpatrick (NBC29)
Runner-up: Norm Sprouse (NBC29)
Honorable mention: Kasey Hott (NBC29)
Following the great blizzard of March 2013, a young Josh Fitzpatrick decided he’d like to study meteorology. Snow was his favorite type of weather and he wanted to learn more about it. Cut to November 2017 when, after 10 years as a meteorologist in West Virginia, he joined the NBC29 weather team. A few months later, runner-up Norm Sprouse (and a perennial winner in this category) scaled back his own role at NBC29 from an on-air weatherman to a more behind-the-scenes position.
ANNUAL EVENT OR FESTIVAL
Tom Tom Founders Festival
Runner-up: Virginia Film Festival
Honorable mention: Charlottesville Dogwood Festival
A week-long festival around Thomas Jefferson’s birthday (and, coincidentally, festival founder Paul Beyer’s, too) that’s focused on the tenets of the third president —entrepreneurship, innovation and culture among them—Tom Tom introduces to town movers, shakers and tastemakers. Spring 2018 brought legendary newsman Dan Rather to the stage. But the fest isn’t out of mind the rest of the year either. The foundation also hosts Tomtoberfest, a block party in Market Street Park with live music, food trucks and vendors, each September. Taking the silver medal is the Virginia Film Fest, an annual celebration of all things movies, with four days of exclusive screenings and, often, celebrity sightings.
CITY NEIGHBORHOOD
Downtown Mall
Runner-up: Belmont/Carlton
Honorable mention: Fry’s Spring
Cost of living notwithstanding, the Downtown Mall (and surrounding North Downtown neighborhood, which is what we suspect readers were going for here) offers modern conveniences—a grocery store, a movie theater, coffee shops aplenty—across eight historic city blocks. And is it a coincidence that the best neighborhood is also the best place to discover a doggo (see below)? We think not. Runner-up Belmont/Carlton offers some of the priciest real estate in the city, but readers say it’s worth it for the creative community, divine dining and walkability to nearby downtown.
PLACE TO DOG-WATCH
Downtown Mall
Runner-up: Chris Greene Lake
Honorable mention: UVA Grounds
No doubt you’ll be delighted to make the acquaintance of Mozart, the friendly Mastiff who turns heads whenever he traverses the mall. Or Roo, the beagle-Chihuahua mix who sometimes shops with her owner at Urban Outfitters. You’ll want to stop and dole out a few pets to labradoodle Jockamo and say hello to Gizmo, the corgi who lives at Blue Whale Books. It’s clear the mall is a spot for paws. Traditionalists might spot Spot at Chris Greene Lake, where he loves splashing away a case of the zoomies.
