A Mother's Day Gift Guide to Finding Home

Photo by: Jo Ann Breaux | Porchella in Bellevue, 2026

Home is where dirty socks and tablets scatter. Home is where kitchen chaos and angsty teens slam doors. And home is where mom should feel confident in her surroundings.

Here are a few choice Mom-friendly areas in and around Richmond that are built for putting down roots.

Short Pump & Twin Hickory (Henrico County)

Best for: Families who want top-rated schools, newer construction, and everything 10 minutes away.

Short Pump is the Richmond suburb that basically has everything. Great schools, major shopping (Short Pump Town Center), a growing dining scene, and neighborhood amenities that make weekends easy. Henrico County Public Schools boasts a strong on-time graduation rate, and the county continues to invest heavily in education and recreation.

What the data won't tell you: Short Pump moves fast. Well-priced homes in top school zones often receive multiple offers within days. If you're targeting this area, you need to be ready, pre-approved and decisive.

Price range: Varies widely, from the mid-$300s for townhomes to well over $700k for larger single-family homes in established subdivisions.

Mom's verdict: High convenience, low stress. The kind of neighborhood where you can run errands, pick up the kids, and grab dinner without getting back on the highway.

Midlothian (Chesterfield County)

Best for: Families who want a little more space, a little more green, and still excellent schools.

Midlothian is quietly one of the most well-rounded suburbs in the entire Richmond metro. You've got established communities like Salisbury (golf, pool, large lots), RounTrey (resort-style amenities, newer builds), and Hallsley (a nationally recognized luxury community). Each one has its own character but all delivering on the fundamentals: great schools, strong resale value, and a sense of neighborhood.

Home prices range from the $400s into the $1.5M+ range depending on the community. And the commute? Easy access via Route 288 and the Powhite Parkway keeps downtown Richmond well within reach.

What the data won't tell you: Not all of Midlothian is created equal. School zones can vary significantly even a few streets apart. It helps knowing which subdivisions feed into which schools.

Hidden gem alert: Moseley, just southwest of Midlothian, is one of the fastest-growing new construction markets in the entire Richmond metro. If you want brand-new without the Goochland price tag, this is worth a serious look.

Glen Allen (Henrico County)

Best for: Families who want suburban comfort with easy access to the West End and I-295.

Glen Allen delivers the full suburban package — great schools, established neighborhoods, diverse price points, and the kind of community feel that makes people stay for decades. It's one of the most searched areas in Henrico County for families, and for good reason: the combination of location, amenities, and school quality is hard to beat.

Price range: Generally mid-$300s to $700k+ depending on the neighborhood and home size.

Mom's verdict: Reliable. Solid. The kind of place where neighbors actually know each other.

Bon Air (Chesterfield/Richmond border)

Best for: Families who want character, mature trees, and a more relaxed pace without sacrificing proximity to the city.

Bon Air is one of those neighborhoods that people discover and never want to leave. Oversized wooded lots, charming older homes, walkable to small shops and the local library, and a genuine community feel that's increasingly rare. It sits right on the Chesterfield/Richmond county line, which means you'll want to check school zones carefully, but the payoff in terms of lifestyle is real.

Bon Air straddles the Chesterfield/Richmond city line, meaning school quality can vary dramatically street by street. Homes on the Chesterfield side feed into James River High School, one of the top-ranked public high schools in Virginia. Three blocks away, it's a completely different story. This is not a neighborhood to navigate on your own.

Price range: $400s to $800k+.

What makes it special: Bikeability. Mature tree canopy. A neighborhood where kids still play outside, and nature that sits in your backyard.

The Fan & Museum District (City of Richmond)

Best for: Moms who love walkability, culture, historic architecture, and a neighborhood with actual personality.

Not every mom wants a backyard and a cul-de-sac. For the family that wants to walk to restaurants, bike to the VMFA, and live in a stunning historic rowhouse, The Fan and Museum District deliver something the suburbs simply can't.

Tree-lined streets, incredible architecture, and access to some of Richmond's best dining and culture make this one of the most sought-after urban neighborhoods in the state.

Public schools in The Fan are a mixed bag with William Fox Elementary as well-regarded, but middle and high school ratings are more modest. That said, Richmond's magnet and private school options, including the highly competitive Maggie L. Walker Governor's School, give motivated families a compelling alternative.

Price range: Mid-$500s to $1M+ for historic rowhomes and single-family properties.

Reality check: Parking can be challenging. Yards are smaller. But the walkability score and neighborhood energy are unmatched in the region.

Mechanicsville (Hanover County)

Best for: Families prioritizing affordability, stability, and top-notch Hanover County schools without the premium price tag.

Mechanicsville doesn't get the flashy press, but families who land here tend to stay here. Hanover County schools are consistently well-regarded, the area is growing with new development and infrastructure investment, and property taxes are lower than city rates. It's the kind of place where you get more house for your money and a strong sense of rooted community.

Price range: Generally more affordable than Henrico or Chesterfield equivalents, a major draw for growing families watching their budget.

Mom's verdict: Smart money. Great schools. Room to breathe.

Bellevue (North Richmond)

Best for: Buyers looking for affordability, charm, and a tight-knit community feel close to downtown.

Bellevue is one of those neighborhoods that earns its reputation the old-fashioned way. A predominantly single-family neighborhood just 10 minutes from downtown, it's known for its cute bungalows and varied architecture amongst community driven neighbors. Mom can be confident her kids will be biking til dusk on the wide, tree-lined avenues. You’ll also find neighborhood haunts, food truck nights, a beloved Garden Walk, and seasonal porch concerts. Turnover is rare here and prices have climbed to reflect just how desirable it's become, but you can still find some affordability in the nearby neighborhood of Rosedale.

Linwood Holton Elementary is a genuine neighborhood highlight. It is well-rated, walkable, and beloved. Middle and high school options through Richmond Public Schools are more modest, though magnet programs like Maggie L. Walker remain accessible. Families willing to explore private options will also find solid choices nearby

Price range: Median around the mid-to-high $500s — prices have appreciated significantly in recent years, reflecting just how much demand this neighborhood has earned.

So, Which Neighborhood Is Right for You?

Here's the truth: the best neighborhood isn't the most sought after one. Mom’s need to find the one that fits her family the best and that includes an all-encompassing home.

The right answer depends on:

• School district: Are you prioritizing elementary, middle, or high school?

• Commute: Where do you (or your partner) work, and how much drive time is acceptable?

• Budget: Not just what you can afford today, but what you want your equity to look like in 5–10 years

• Lifestyle: Walkable urban vibe vs. yard-and-garage suburban vs. rural acreage?

• Speed of the market: Some of these areas are extremely competitive. Knowing what to expect before you start looking is the difference between landing the home and losing it.

This Mother's Day, Give the Gift of Home

Whether you're buying for yourself or helping a mom in your life find her forever neighborhood, there's no better time than now to start the conversation.

I know this market. The streets, the school zones, the neighborhoods that move fast, and the hidden gems that are still underpriced. Let me help you find the right fit.

Schedule a free, no-pressure neighborhood consultation, and let's find the home that fits your family.

Essential Dad Tips

Dan and Morella Shebaylo at Forest Hill Park
Photo by: Jo Ann Breaux

A Few Single Dad Tips

Some dads are super hands on while others have let their significant others take that role. As a single dad, you no longer have them to handle the day to day. Being prepared for visitation will show them you got this, and ensure your kids have not one, but two great homes!

• Learn to cook food that doesn’t come from a can

• Don’t talk bad about your former partner in front of them

• Always have a first aid kit, medications, ie. allergy, aspirin, tylenol on hand

• Bandaids in bulk!

• Always have a surplus of diapers if needed

• Make sure a list of all emergency numbers are on the fridge or easily found (this is for you and the kids)

• Make sure your fire alarms are working properly

• Make sure they have clothes that fit them properly that include dress clothes and dress shoes

• If you’ve got a teenage daughter make sure she has the essential feminine products as well as her favorite makeup

• Make sure there is space for both you and your kids. Most single dads get apartments after the split, you want enough space where they can be comfortable and feel safe.

• Get some games, books, puzzles, video games for the house

• Always have some sort of plans on the weekends, this will save valuable time and also create some balance with their playtime vs yours

• Remember, your house, your rules. You and your ex will have different ones so establish that with your kids so there’s no confusion.

• Don’t introduce them to a new mate right away, give it a minute to see if you like them first (3-5 months is suggested)

• Plenty of snacks!

• Find kids their age in the neighborhood you’re living in or make playdates with schoolmates

• Get a seasons pass to an amusement park, a museum, season tickets to ball games, swimming pools, etc.

• Make sure they do their homework and that you are also a primary contact with the school. I’ve seen a lot of single dads miss their kid’s events because they weren’t informed

• Co-Parent, civilly and patiently. For some this is difficult, but one solid conversation with your ex where you establish that you are going to be there as their father and that you should work together and communicate effectively in raising your kids.

• Keep “daddy’s things” locked up

• Don’t forget the bedtime stories

• Spend time with them and have fun, that’s all they really want

I’m sure I’m missing some stuff here, but feel free to add some in the comments section!

A Great Way to Feed Your Soul

Step One:

In ONE bag (whichever size works best for your specific meal) assemble all the ingredients for a meal that has at least 4 servings and a desert mix.

Please do not overfill the bag. If it doesn't fit, we ask you provide a larger bag.

Step Two:

After placing all ingredients in the bag; please place a copy of clear instructions for the recipe inside of the bag to further support families when they are assembling their meal.

Step Three:

Once you have your donations assembled, drop them off at our drop off location.

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Some Kit Ideas

Here are a few recipe ideas, if you have any simple, healthy all dry goods recipes feel free to contact me with it!

Pasta

• Whole Grain Pasta

• Minced Garlic

• Canned Tuna or Chicken

• Lemon

• Parmesan

• Red Pepper Flakes

• Olive Oil

• Fruit or Dessert

Lentils and Rice

• Dried Lentils

• Dried Minced Onions

• Instant Brown Rice

• Minced Garlic

• Canned Chicken

• Fruit or Dessert

Spam Skewers

• Spam

• Canned Pineapple

• White Wine Vinegar

• Instant Rice or Quinoa

• Skewer Sticks

• Fruit or Dessert

Mexican Salad

• Canned Diced Tomatoes

• Canned Black or Pinto Beans

• Canned Corn

• Canned Chicken

• Cilantro Lime Dressing

• Tostitos Queso Blanco

• Tortilla Chips

• Fruit or Dessert

Crab and Shells

• Velveeta Shells and Cheese (white)

• Canned Crabmeat

• Parsley Flakes

• Diced tomatoes

• Fruit or Dessert

Canned and Dried Ingredients You may have Forgotten

• Canned Cheeses

• Canned Meats like Spam, Tuna, Chicken, Salmon

• Bacon Bits

• Canned Vegetables like Olives, Asian Stir-Fry Veggies, and Lentils

• Using Dressings as Marinades

• Chickpeas are versatile

• Boxed Milks don’t have to be refrigerated

• Vegetable and Chicken Broths or Bouillon

Our Drop-off Location!

 

Once you have created your meal kits, we will be collecting your donations in our office at: 

2930 W. Broad St. Richmond, VA 23230 - Suite E
On the Corner of Broad & Altamont.

We will be accepting donations on October 19th from 10am - 4pm & October 20th from 12pm - 6pm

Quarantine Chronicles: Ghosting on Halloween

Photo by: LadyJRVA

I don’t know about the rest of you parents, but i have a 7 year old who has been talking about her Halloween costume since June. Obviously this is going to be really difficult on the kids. I’m sure there will be plenty of Halloween block parties and people risking the virus taking their kids trick or treating, I mean they are wearing masks anyway. For all of us, who don’t want candy collectors and our kids to be exposed going to random houses, there are some ways to enjoy the holiday and give your kids a bootastic evening.

Have a Zoombie Party

Gather their friends and exchange some scary stories. Vote for best costumes. Get the kids to write a song and share.

Have your own Halloween Party

Gather those in your “bubble” and have a fun time with costumes and spooky drinks. Have a pizza making event or a candy scavenger hunt. Make some phantastic cookies! Don’t forget the scary movies!

Do a Drive By

If you are hosting children for Halloween, leave little pumpkins with candy and some hand sanitizer out so they can grab and go! Have a halloween caravan with fun decorated signs and streamers. They can hang their bags/pumpkins outside the car window and be greeted by some great costumed candy distributors.

Have a Socially Distanced Halloween Picnic

Throw some blankets out in a wooded area or open field with treats or do it in a backyard with a projection screen for some fun scary movies! Have a bonfire!

Have the Treats Delivered to You!

Get someone you know to dress up and deliver treats to the house. You can say a a spooky guests will be stopping by for a surprise.

Set Up a Spooktacular Table

Have a walk up table filled with little baggie or mini pumpkin treats with hand sanitizers available. make sure you mark some six foot lines in sidewalk chalk to keep things distanced.

Have a Teaching Moment

Take this time to teach your children other country’s Halloween traditions, ie  Día de Muertos or Samhain.

No matter what you decide this year, just make sure you are safe and protected. Be creative and take this moment to connect with your kids. Talk about what scary to them, read them stories, make decorations or food. There are so many ways to celebrate the holidays safely and heartily!

Quarantine Chronicles: Ma-Mama, Mama-Mo-Ma-Mum

Photo by: Mi Madre by LadyJRVA

This year Mother’s Day is going to be pretty weird. I’m fortunate to have my mom in town and I’m sure she’ll be making something delicious to eat while she and my Tia (aunt) criticize everything from what I’m wearing to whether I’m drinking enough water. Welcome to FWS (Foreign Woman Syndrome). My mom is the hardest person in the world to shop for. She LOVES clothes and shoes, but I don’t dare, and while flowers are nice, sometimes I want to get her something so left of center that it will be a nice surprise at least.

It got me thinking about how this current time will affect this holiday. Some of you have moms in other states which I’m sure you’ve been Facetiming and texting the hell out of to make sure they are safe. For those in town, the traditional Mother’s Day brunch is obviously out, but there are ways to make up for this. I decided to give you all some ideas on how to celebrate this Mother’s Day in Coronastyle as well as support local business.

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Eats

A socially distanced picnic or a nice virtual meal together can still be a nice way to say, “Thanks, Mom”. Even if you can’t be with mom on her day, you can have a meal delivered or picked up for her at some of our local Momtastic establishments.

Stella’s

I don’t need to tell everyone how these two mitéras not only create some of the most delicious and established meals in RVA, but would make any mom feel special.
Happy Mother’s Day to Ms. Stella Dikos and Katrina Giavos!

MamaJ’s

Featuring some of the tastiest soul food in town, you know your Mama will love this Mama!
Happy Mother’s Day to sweet Ms. Velma Johnson!

Nota Bene

A perfecto way to tell mom you love her, Italian style.
Happy Mother’s Day to stellar mom and owner,
Victoria Aracri Deroche!

Lulabelle’s Cafe

I’m never disappointed with Lulabelle’s and they will be providing a true Southern menu for you and your momma.
Happy Mother’s Day to the lovely owner Nicki Murphy!

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Sweets

No Mother’s Day is complete without some sort of confectionary delight to remind ourselves just how sweet moms are!

Whisk

Mom will LOVE their macaroons and other baked goodies.
Happy Mother’s Day to owner Morgan Botwinick!

Michaela’s Bakery

Home of the Thalhimer's Six Layer Cake, Michaela’s is perfect for cakes and cookie orders. It smells so good walking in there!

Maggie’s Cupcake Cafe

This woman does it all! Cakes, Cupcakes, Pies…OH MY!
Happy Mother’s Day to owner, storyteller, and Veteran, Rebekah Lynn Pierce!

La Sabrosita Bakery 

To all my Latina Mami’s out there, this is the bakery for them! They make the most festive and beautiful cakes!

Feliz día de la madre, Argentina Ortega!

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Gifts

FLOWERS

Old Time Feeling: Visit Kelsey on Instagram, pick up and delivery still available!

FOURTEEN ACRES: Beautiful in-season florals delivered right to your door.

FUN GIFTS

WORLD OF MIRTH: Some of the coolest mom gifts in town! Give her an unexpected surprise!
Happy Mother’s Day to Owner, Thea Brown

THE WOW FACTOR

CAMEO: Give her the gift of a personal celebrity message AND support a cause!

THE RVA TREATMENT

GIFTED RVA: Get her a gift that says “I love you MOM, and I love RVA”. Beautiful gift sets!

AFTER COVID GIFTS with GIFT CERTIFICATES to LOCAL BUSINESSES

• A haircut with one of our hairstylists

• A massage at a local spa

• A mani-pedi (and get one for yourself for a little mom-daughter time)What To Do

• Tickets to the theater, symphony or an upcoming concert

• Get her dancing lessons

• Get her cooking/baking classes

Other things to do

• Have a backyard picnic

• Take a trip together with virtual tours of museums, gardens, mansions, and national parks

• Take a virtual dance class together

• Make a wreath for her front door with mom day messages

• Take a walk together

Wine All About It!

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

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

These places have some of the most delicious wine choices.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Rosé

• Atlantique Rosé

• Guilhem Rosé 

• Eulalie Rosé

  
  Sparkling

• Aubert et fils

• Moet Chandon Brut

• Monteliana Prosecco

Reds

• Fableist Cabernet

• Mascarelli Montepulciano 

• Leese Fitch Pinot Noir (one of my faves)

Whites

• Federalist Chardonnay 

• Matua Sauvignon Blanc 

• Ca'lunghetta Pinot Grigio

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