A Richmond Virginia Destination
As I contemplate a close to home, COVID-19 safe getaway, I being to daydream about the charming Quirk Hotel in Richmond Virginia.
My first and only stay at the downtown hotel in May of 2019 was memorable and enjoyable for many different reasons. One of those being it was a night to myself. No kids. No housework. No responsibility. I took full advantage of this brief time away and wanted to share a few highlights and noteworthy local spots to check out if you ever find yourself in the Richmond area.
While my mom hat was off for the evening, my business hat remained as the Reed & Associates Marketing team was joining me the next day for a company brand shoot. I wanted to spend some time in the hotel in advance of the shoot to get a lay of the land to ensure my vision would come to life.
Located in the heart of the Richmond Renaissance, there is no shortage of beautiful architecture to admire as you stroll down the cobblestone streets. While the Quirk Hotel is a Hyatt property, it has all the makings of a privately held boutique hotel. From the moment I stepped into the sun-filled lobby, I was enchanted. The hotel's brand color, a blushing pink, could be found throughout the open-concept space, accented by vibrant greenery. My eye was drawn to the prominent wrought iron staircases that read as original to the historic building, then to the textured large-scale artwork featured on the walls. An inviting European-style coffee shop offering up a way to 'FUEL THE LOVE' with local roaster, Blanchard's Coffee Roasting Company can be found nestled in the front of the lobby, just next to their very own Quirk Gallery. The gallery, unlike any other, featuring artwork and designs from both established and new artists, is a refreshing space that can also be rented out for private events.
Once I checked in and soak in the breathtaking lobby, I made my way through the dinning room and past the expansive bar, making my way to the elevator. Had my hands not been full with props for the shoot the following day, I likely would have bellied right up to the bar.
The hallways feature white wash wood flooring, contrasting ornate rugs and jet black doors. Much to my delight, I was given a large corner room to enjoy all to myself! The space had strikingly high ceilings and minimal, obviously carefully curated decor. I was welcomed by a handwritten note and a bottle of sparking wine on ice. How did they lovely folks at Quirk Hotel know bubbles were the way to my heart?!
After unpacking and freshening up with glass of wine, it was time to enjoy a solo night on the town! My first stop was the hotel restaurant and bar, Maple & Pine. I devoured the crispy bacon brussels sprouts and parmesan cheese biscuits while sipping on one of their select cocktails. Everything was so delicious I contemplated staying for dinner but decided on adventure and left the hotel to check out another highly recommended spot, Saison.
Located just a few blocks away, I quickly found myself at the corner of the bar. The quaint space was filled with what seemed like local professionals. The elevated menu featured many dishes I was interested in trying for first time -- I decided on the skate and wild mushroom dish.
After closing my tab at Saison, I decided it was time to call it a night; but not before checking out the Quirk Hotel's Q Rooftop Bar. While I was done indulging in drinks for the evening, I did enjoy a quiet moment atop downtown Richmond, simply soaking in the view. Next visit, I hope to catch the the perfect sunset.
The following morning, I woke rested after a kid-free night of sleep. It was a quiet morning, with no meals to make or kids to get out the door. I was able to sleep in and take a shower without interruption. I was ready to execute a successful brand shoot with my team!
Our talented photographer at the time, Melissa Gilmore, and I had worked closely with our creative manger in advance to develop a heavy shot list of assets we hoped to capture during our time at the hotel in addition to a Strengths Finder exercise. We took head shots throughout the main lobby space and gathered in the Gray Owl and on The Mezzanine balcony for the reminder of our shot list, closing out the day with with our team building activity and a champagne toast! #Cheers
Here are a few shots from the day. You can check out more images here.
The day was a success and the evening before left me refreshed and excited for my next visit. Whether you are looking for a romantic (or solo) night away, a girls weekend or company retreat, I highly recommend a stay at Richmond's most charming spot, the Quirk Hotel.
Extras
In advance of checking into the hotel the night before, I stopped by Strawberry Street to pickup a few props for the shoot, including flowers from Strawberry Fields Flowers & Finds and Scoop for Macaroons. This street is a sweet as it sounds as are the shops and restaurants you will find on the row.
Quick Takeaways
Plan a visit to the Quirk Hotel in Richmond, VA or their new location in Charlottesville,VA.
Stop by the lobby coffee shop to 'Fuel the Love' local roaster, Blanchard's Coffee Roasting Company
Take home a piece of Richmond and stop in the Quirk Gallery.
Check out the hotel's lobby dining room restaurant, Maple & Pine for a delicious meal!
Catch the sunset atop the city on the hotel's rooftop bar, Q Rooftop Bar.
Plan your next company event in one of their event spaces like the Gray Owl.
Take a walk down the street to a local's favorite dining spot, Saison.
Put a pop of color in your hotel room with flowers from Strawberry Fields Flowers & Finds.
While on Strawberry Street, indulge in a sweet treat from Scoop.
Take a Strengths Finder test and discover your top 5!
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