Best of Virginia Winners
Table of Contents
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General
1st
3North
3North has made its mark on the RVA landscape with projects including the Quirk Hotel, Ellwood Thompson’s and the Washington Redskins Training Center. The firm does not hew exclusively to a single aesthetic, but rather, allows context to guide the style of its work. From residential to recreational, 3North has designed for a diverse array of clients.
3rd
Baskervill
2nd
VMDO Architects
1st
3Sports
Training for your first triathlon is difficult enough without having to worry about having the proper gear. As athletes themselves, 3Sports’ staff knows the importance of equipment, testing every piece of gear for your running, cycling and swimming needs. With their expertise and the quality of their stock, this crew will prep you to hit the ground running.
2nd
Agee’s Bicycle Company
3rd
Carytown Bicycle Co.
3rd
3Sports
2nd
DSW
1st
Saxon Shoes
Cole Haan and Michael Kors are among the names you’ll see while browsing Richmond’s Saxon Shoes, though you might have to go to the store’s second floor to see it all. If you’ve got an unusual size, it is likely they’ll have it in stock—the store carries every size from a woman’s size 4 to a 14, and from extra slim to extra wide.
1st
Adolf Jewelers
Buying jewelry should be more than just a click on a screen, say the owners of Adolf Jewelers. With a staff possessing more than 225 years of combined experience, and prices ranging from high-end to affordable, the store prides itself on providing personal attention to its customers, as well as a wide array of stones and styles.
3rd
Bowen Jewelry
2nd
Carreras Jewelers
3rd
Aloha Orthodontics
2nd
Gardner Orthodontics
1st
Virginia Family Dentistry
Virginia Family Dentistry offers 360-dental care for all members of the family, including orthodontics for adults and children. Five experienced orthodontists on staff, and convenient locations across the city, offer the convenience of one-stop dental shopping.
2nd
Babcock’s Auto Service
3rd
Richmond Ford
1st
Wallace Automotive
Wallace Automotive abides by a modified version of the golden rule: do unto others’ cars as you would have them do unto yours. The family-owned and operated auto shop specializes in Honda and Acura repairs and maintenance, but can also fix most other Japanese models as well.
3rd
Barnes and Noble
1st
Chop Suey
Not sure what to read next? Have a Chop Suey “Blind Date with a Book.” Wrapped in brown paper to disguise its identity, you’ll only know the handpicked book’s genre and some basic info. No pressure if it’s not your style—you can return the book after reading.
2nd
Givens Books & Little Dickens
3rd
Bass Pro Shop
1st
Dick’s Sporting Goods
No matter what your sport is, Dick’s Sporting Goods is bound to have equipment for it, from pole vaulting to table tennis, and wrestling to lacrosse. If you can’t find what you need in-store, Dick’s staff can order it for you and have it delivered to your home. They also offer specialty services at this location like custom drilling for bowling balls and racquet stringing.
2nd
Green Top
2nd
Bel Arbor Builders
3rd
Mark Franko Custom Building
1st
Smith & Robertson
Ron Smith and Glenn Robertson started their business in 1976 with the intention of building planet-friendly custom homes. Smith & Robertson often use timber-frame construction and recycled materials, and their homes are at least bronze-level certified green by the National Association of Home Builders.
1st
Betty Baugh Animal Clinic
The full-service clinic offers specialized treatments like laser therapy and acupuncture for pets with chronic pain in addition to its traditional pet care services. Have a new furry addition to the family? Puppy and kitten wellness packages, which for puppies include up to four wellness exams and four vaccines (three of each for kittens) as well as a 50 percent discount on spaying or neutering, are available for $255.
2nd
River City Veterinary Hospital
3rd
Winterfield Animal Hospital
1st
Blue Ridge School
Blue Ridge School takes a holistic approach to educating boys, focusing on the needs of its students academically, socially and spiritually. The curriculum is designed to specifically address the needs of young men and to help them reach their full potential through tailored academics, service learning trips and character building classes.
2nd
Collegiate School
1st
Bombshell
Founded to provide affordable Brazilian waxing and tanning services, Bombshell has grown into a full service hair salon and spa with a sassy vintage vibe. In collaboration with medical director Dr. Travis Shaw, Bombshell offers a range of services from fillers to facials. New this spring are lash extensions and eyebrow threading.
2nd
Glow Med Spa
3rd
Scents of Serenity Organic Spa
1st
Bombshell
Girls with curls never fear! You can leave your straightening iron at the door. Along with full service coloring and blowouts, Bombshell offers “Curly Girl” cuts by stylists trained and certified in the method of dry cutting. Each curl is cut one by one, eliminating frizz and ensuring precision styling.
3rd
Ciao Bella Salon
2nd
Mango Salon
1st
Bon Secours St. Mary’s Hospital
St. Mary’s Hospital is celebrating its 50th year of providing compassionate healthcare in a range of specialties dating back to its founding by the Sisters of Bon Secours to minister to the poor and the sick. St. Mary’s is ranked among the top 50 cardiovascular hospitals in the country by Thomson Reuters.
3rd
Henrico Doctor’s Hospital
2nd
Medical College of Virginia at VCU
3rd
Brown
2nd
Murry & Kuhn
1st
Virginia Family Dentistry
Having expanded to 12 locations with more than 50 dentists and dental specialists, Virginia Family Dentistry ensures you don’t have to go far for your dental health, whether you’re in need of a periodontist, orthodontist or a general dentist. The most recent addition to the staff is Dr. Jeff Laughlin, a pediatric dentist.
2nd
Buckingham Antique Mall
3rd
RVA Antiques
1st
West End Antique Mall
Now in its 20th year, West End Antique Mall is a one-stop-shop for the avid antiques hunter. With more than 250 booths filling a 53,000-square-foot space, dealers often travel internationally to hunt for unusual pieces. Local delivery is available for that Eames chair that won’t quite fit in the trunk.
1st
Buttons & Bows
Buttons & Bows is in the business of firsts. From baby’s first day home to First Communion, and everything between and beyond, they have what your child needs. While you’re looking for brands like Jaxxwear or Us Angels, or for the perfect christening gift, your child can stay occupied with the shop’s toys and books.
3rd
Clover
2nd
Kid to Kid
1st
Cartwright Landscaping
Since owner Jeff Cartwright started Cartwright Landscaping from his shed in 2011, the company has grown to install and maintain lawns and gardens for more than 600 clients around Richmond. The company also donates its services to Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens.
2nd
Mike’s Lawn and Landscape LLC
3rd
Virginia Green Lawn Care
3rd
Carytown
1st
Short Pump Town Center
The recently-renovated Short Pump Town Center is a place for the community to gather. With children’s play areas, comfortable seating and a summer concert series in addition to its 140 stores, including the newly opened Cabela’s and Lilly Pulitzer, and restaurants like the Cheesecake Factory and Maggiano’s, you’ll find a whole day’s entertainment here.
2nd
Stony Point Fashion Park
1st
Coleman Brothers Flowers
Family-owned and operated for more than 40 years, Coleman Brothers Flowers prepares custom bouquets and fresh flowers for all occasions. For more permanent displays, portraits, or for a bridal bouquet to pass down to the next generation, silk flowers and arrangements are also available.
2nd
Strange’s
3rd
Vogue Flowers
1st
Custom Kitchens
In 1957, Arthur Hendrick quit his job selling appliances at Thalhimer’s to start his own kitchen design business. More than 60 years later, family-owned and operated Custom Kitchens echoes the craftsmanship and personal touch of its first kitchen designs in the sleek kitchens it creates today, with custom cabinetry and high-end appliances like Sub-Zero.
2nd
Katheryn Robertson LTD
3rd
KDW Home
2nd
Davenport
3rd
Edward Jones
1st
Endeavor Capital
Founded on the heels of the 2008 financial crisis, Endeavor Capital aims to empower its customers to make sound financial decisions. Representing a tradition of financial advising that spans three generations, founder Jonathan Kennedy Jr. provides financial planning, retirement and investment strategy and legacy planning services.
2nd
David’s Bridal
1st
Tiffanys Bridal
A wedding is often a family affair, and Tiffanys is ready to help. Open since 1969, Tiffanys is one of the oldest bridal salons in Richmond, and often serves daughters of previous clients. The store sells gowns in most price ranges with designers like Stella York, as well as two private lines exclusive to the boutique.
3rd
Urban Set Bride
3rd
Davidson
2nd
Harris
1st
Keiter
With 72 local CPAs and 20 partners, Keiter may be one of the largest accounting firms in the Richmond area, but it still prides itself on personalized service. The firm offers a full array of financial advisory services for businesses at any stage, with specialty services for family businesses, emerging or growing businesses and international clients.
1st
Decorum
Decorum’s owners, the designing duo of Myrf Bowry and Leah Dodge, met at work, and soon decided to take the plunge and start designing on their own. They carry more than 500 lines of furniture and home accessories, including Dana Gibson and Wesley Hall, and even offer decorating and floral arranging for special occasions.
3rd
Jennifer Stoner Interiors
2nd
Katheryn Robertson LTD
3rd
Dermatology Associates
2nd
Midlothian Dermatology
1st
Richmond Dermatology & Laser Specialists
From acne to eczema, from hair loss to skin cancer, Richmond Dermatology & Laser Specialists treat an array of conditions and work to maintain the skin you’re in at any age. Specializing in pre-cancer screening and cancer treatment, the center offers both aesthetic and medical care, as well as specialized skin care products for a variety of conditions.
2nd
Dog Services
1st
Happy Camper Pet Lodge
Since it started in 2013, Happy Camper Pet Lodge has nearly tripled its size, expanding its astro-turf play area and building kennels for at least 25 more dogs. The CPR and first aid certified staff will pal around with your pooch (or cat, or rabbit, or bird) for as long as you’re away. In summer, pets can beat the heat with splash pools and the occasional James River field trip.
3rd
Holiday Barn Pet Resorts
1st
Dr. Joe Niamtu
Plastic surgery has changed dramatically in the 31 years Dr. Niamtu has been working—these days, about half of his business includes non-surgical cosmetic procedures like injections and laser treatments. Although the trends may be changing, the doctor continues to make his patients feel their best, whether that’s through a facelift (Dr. Joe’s signature procedure) or fillers.
3rd
Dr. Nadia Blanchet
2nd
Dr. Travis Shaw
1st
Franco’s
Franco’s Fine Clothier brings back the experience of personalized shopping with its selection of high-end formalwear, casualwear and shoes by Armani, Alan Edmonds, Moretti and others, as well as its team of trained salespeople. Franco’s on-site alterations department ensures your Hickey Freeman sport coat fits as if it were bespoke.
2nd
Peter Blair
3rd
R. Coffee
1st
Glow Med Spa
Each of Glow Med Spa’s locations provide a different relaxation experience tied to one of three elements—earth, water or fire. Journey into an enchanted forest complete with papier-mâché trees at the Northside “earth” location, or into a warm glow at the Short Pump “fire” locale, lit by faux fire torches. A “water” location in Westchester will open this fall.
3rd
Massage Envy
2nd
Scents of Serenity Organic Spa
3rd
Green Top
1st
REI
So, you want to backpack on the Appalachian Trail this summer—but how do you start? REI has some ideas. The retailer offers classes on camping basics and trip planning for the AT that will transform you from urbanite to outdoorsman. The store’s extensive stock will ensure you have all the gear you’ll need.
2nd
River Rock Outfitter
3rd
Grove Avenue Eye Center
2nd
Patterson Eye Clinic
1st
Virginia Eye Institute
The Virginia Eye Institute was the first in the state of Virginia to perform Lasik surgery, which speaks to its commitment to innovation and comprehensive eye care. The group offers treatments for specialized ophthalmic needs, including laser-assisted cataract surgery, glaucoma care and retinal and corneal disorders. Its eight locations also house eyewear centers staffed by certified opticians.
3rd
HeloAir
1st
MartinAir
Whether you’ve just bought your first aircraft or want a flight to your next vacation without the commercial airport hassle, MartinAir has services spanning from private air charter to aircraft care and management. With specialty catering and ground transportation, MartinAir will ensure every flight is as smooth and stress-free as possible.
2nd
MillionAir
1st
Inn at Willow Grove
The Inn at Willow Grove’s boxwood garden makes an intimate setting for a wedding, with a reception to follow in its 18th-century reclaimed wood barn. On-site catering simplifies the day, along with other services like furniture rentals, guest accommodations and on-site coordination.
3rd
Maymont
2nd
Walden Hall
1st
Joyner Fine Properties
First opened as a commercial real estate firm in 1973, Joyner Fine Properties is now involved in nearly every aspect of real estate management. Since 1998 it has grown from 28 agents to more than 175. The firm also offers property management, relocation services and, true to its roots, commercial leasing, sales and consulting.
2nd
Long & Foster
3rd
Valentine Properties
3rd
Kim Moody
2nd
McBride Events
1st
Mosaic Catering + Events
Even if you’re not quite sure what you’d like your wedding, party or lunch to look like, Mosaic has a team of designers, builders, marketing professionals and caterers at the ready to help you come up with ideas for an elegant and stylish event. Mosaic also offers event rentals and custom-built decorations.
2nd
Levys
1st
Nellie George
Stocking colorful, high-end brands like BB Dakota, Rachel Zoe and Calypso St. Barth, Nellie George’s funky turquoise chandelier-bedecked storefront supplies clothes with Palm Beach flair for women of all ages and for a variety of occasions.
3rd
Talbots
1st
McGeorge Car Company
A lot has changed since 1955, especially for David R. McGeorge Car Company. The company includes multiple franchises throughout the Richmond area, including its Toyota dealership, which opened in 2006. The 10,000-square-foot space houses more than 600 vehicles, making it the largest volume Toyota dealership in the Central region.
3rd
Pearson Auto Group
2nd
Richmond Ford
1st
Mongrel
When you’re walking into Mongrel, step carefully—the store is so stuffed with quirky things like Baltic Amber candles, Zen tea accessories, RVA-inspired cookbooks, gag gifts and cards that the aisles may seem labyrinthine. On the bright side, Mongrel’s eclectic selection makes it a given that you’ll find an unusual gift.
3rd
R.H. Ballard Shop & Gallery
2nd
Tweed
3rd
Physical Therapy at ACAC
1st
Thrive Physical Therapy
If golf is your game, Thrive Physical Therapy offers the Titleist Performance Institute physical examination to evaluate and improve your swing, as well as treatments for a variety of ailments. This year, the group is expanding its preventive programs to include a concierge physical therapy service.
2nd
Tidewater Physical Therapy
1st
Ruth & Ollie
Home furnishing and design should be fun, say Ruth & Ollie owners Kat and Mike Liebschwager. If you’re redesigning your dining room, furnishing a new home or just looking for a new sofa, the Carytown store’s selection of à la mode furnishings will almost certainly make your shopping trip enjoyable.
3rd
RVA Antiques on the Avenue
2nd
Williams & Sherrill
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