“Absolutely the best framing shop I've ever worked with... in RVA or DC! My husband and I have used Rick's to frame a print that was a gift from our son, and to frame two original art pieces we bought at a local gallery. We also used them to re-mat a painting to go with new decor. Rick's is on the pricey side, but well, well, worth it. First, the selection of frames and mats is outstanding, and easy to browse. They offer a wide variety of frames in every style imaginable. The staff are wonderful - knowledgable and friendly. We've worked with 3 separate framing experts for our projects and all were extremely helpful, making suggestions and taking all the time we need to get just the right look. Rick's is popular, so if you go on a weekend or lunch hour, you may have to wait a bit. But be patient... the reason you are waiting is because they are not rushing their customers, and they won't rush you when it's your turn. The turnaround time for framing is reasonable, and they call you when your items are ready for pick-up. Rick's is our go-to shop for framing from now on!”
“My wife and I were blown away by the quality and variety of pieces at Shockoe Bottom Clay. We regularly attend art fairs in Los Angeles and Philly, and the work at this store exceeded what we usually see elsewhere. I was so impressed by the variety of styles that they showcase; you can find something for someone who loves modern clean lines, for someone who collects nature-inspired work, or for someone who’s drawn to more fantastical designs. There were also a range of price points, so you can walk out with a small gift or a big investment. We bought a fragile little statue that we needed shipped to our home in LA, and the store packed it with such care that it arrived unbroken!”
“I love Laurel Gallery and buy my gifts from them to share art with my friends and family. Their hours are sometimes tough to get there but I always check before I go to make sure they are open when I'm able to visit! Loyal customer, Bobbie Brooks”
“Yesterday morning I participated in the chair aerobics class at Richmond rec and parks Pine Camp. It was fun and active and I unexpectedly did break a sweat doing this. It is a free class on Tuesdays @10 in the morning and I recommend it to everyone that can get there. Rodney is a fun and invigorating teacher.”
“Incredible array of antiques, so many interesting treasures and gems. Definitely a place you could spend hours browsing. The owners are incredibly knowledgeable and their cat Daisy is lovely and very respectful of the antiques. Perfect place to take an hour or two and discover a beautiful treasure to add to your home!”
“I went to a burlesque show here and the people running the venue were absolute gems! They were super sweet and helpful, and the show was great. The venue has a good amount of space so youre not bumping into each other, too!”
“this is one of my fav places in rva!! i feel very at home here and the staff are super nice and friendly :) i’m almost always wearing something from here and i’ve gotten the coolest art too <3 also really nice fitting room with lots of mirrors!!”
“Awesome, unique, eclectic. The variety of funky items is a sight to behold. Great place to find a conversation piece for your home or a special gift you won't find anywhere else. The owner ("Johny Depp") is very engaging.”
“Took a 2-evening class to make a mask for the Richmond Krampusnacht Walk - what a great place! There's a bar, a stage for shows and lots of room to watch a band (or in my case, create a mask). I highly recommend attending any event hosted here.”
“The associate was very nice and complimentary! She made me feel at home and she knew a lot about each of the hats that I looked at. I didn't feel pushed to buy anything. I felt like she genuinely wanted me to be happy with my purchase and even gave suggestions that was from a perspective of fashion and not from a perspective of just trying to sell me something.”
“The owner is an absolute sweetheart and fine conversationist. Little do u know the entire store is covered in HIS art!! I love the clothes and jewelry as well, I come here to feel inspired and always leave with something beautiful”
“A nice addition to the old space once occupied by the former BK Music...Personally I have sorta missed the old vinyl store. However this is kindaa hip addition to the area... It's bright & open...has a good flow to it....besides it holds art on a rotating basis. Hope it has staying power..Southside could use a little more of this..”
“Me and some friends stumbled across the selfie museum and had so much fun! If you are in the area, you must stop by. The prices were reasonable and the staff is friendly.”
“Lots of great artwork by a lot of talented artists are exhibited there, including the owner's. Anne is an artist/gallery owner who looks out for other artists.”
“A nice gallery attached to a fun hotel concept. Some nice pieces in the attached hotel lobby, and an overall well designed contemporary space. The gallery flows from the lobby space well, and has a variety of small works and gift shop items intermixed. Display was well thought out, and highly curated. There is an overall clean feel with pops of pink that tie everything together, from the work and products on display to the packaging, signage, and selection of two dimensional pieces that support the overall feel of the space. Products range from handmade one of a kind works to inexpensive production items (like sunglasses and plated fashion jewelry). There is a selection for every price range.”
“Went for an event they were hosting recently and was amazed by the beautiful architecture and displays of artwork. Evokes deep emotion and worth a visit! Make sure to check out the cafe and the shop!”
“Absolutely Perfect Corporate Event Venue!
I recently hosted a corporate event for over 50 colleagues at Black Iris in Richmond’s vibrant Arts District, and it was nothing short of spectacular. From the moment we arrived, the team delivered exceptional service—attentive, professional, and genuinely warm, making sure every detail was handled flawlessly.
The food and beverage selection was outstanding: creative, delicious cocktails and a beautifully curated menu that impressed even the pickiest eaters in our group. Set against the stunning backdrop of their rotational art gallery, with ever-changing, thought-provoking exhibits lining the walls, the space felt inspiring and unique—truly elevating the entire evening.
Adding to the magic was a live pianist, whose music created the perfect ambiance and kept the energy lively without overpowering conversations. The whole place just had an incredible vibe—elegant yet relaxed, creative yet welcoming.
This was hands-down one of the best corporate events we’ve ever had. Hope to book another gathering here in the future—Black Iris is a gem in Richmond! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐”