Aaron Ledesma

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Why do you love Richmond?

For me, Richmond combines the look of the north with the atmosphere of the south. I grew up in Texas and attended college in Wisconsin, so I appreciate a city that can bring both of those cities together.

What’s your favorite thing to do in Richmond?

I love hiking with my dog, Sami, along the Northern Bank Trail. We start off by Belle Isle and work our way towards Texas beach. Along the way you get the best views of Belle Isle, James River, Hollywood Cemetery, the train tracks and wooded areas.

What do you do here?

I've been in RVA for a year now working as a communications manager for a non-profit. Specifically, I specialize in social media, digital media and multimedia production.

What’s your favorite restaurant?

Edo's Squid is my favorite! Italian food is my favorite, and I enjoy a glass of red wine nightly. Edo's Squid has amazing food that's homemade, family style. You won't be disappointed. But when I'm not feeling pasta, I tend to visit Buz and Ned's BBQ

What would you tell somebody who has never been to Richmond?

Don't judge the city based on its size. There's plenty to do here for just about anyone. I love that RVA is "different". We have festivals, outdoor activities, lots of dogs, several parks, breweries and we're a close to some amazing vineyards.

What's your favorite store?

MONGREL. Located in Carytown, this store has "cool stuff for all breeds of humans." Seriously, this place is amazing. If you're looking for hilarious/inappropriate cards to mail family or friends, this is the store for you.

How do you spend your free time?

I have a two-year-old redbone coonhound named Sami. When I'm not at work or out with friends, I'm spending time with her. She loves to snuggle, give kisses, go on long walks and swim in rivers and ponds.

What's your favorite neighborhood?

The Fan. While I'd never want to live there, it has just about everything you could need for a night on the town. There's restaurants, bars, museums and more! I love the Fan because of the following businesses: Refuge for Men, Postbellum, Bombolini, Continental Divide.

How do you describe your community?

Adventurous. Everyone in the city brings something to the table, which provides Richmonders a variety of things to do. From happy hour at the VMFA and dinner in the Fan, to brewery tours and fireworks at a Squirrel's game, RVA has many adventures available.

Anything else you would like to add?

Experience RVA for yourself. Be prepared to eat great food and drink lots of beer. Good times are waiting for you!