Connect with Crystal

Tell us why you love Richmond and receive invitations to exclusive events and more.

Why do you love Richmond?

I think it's a beautiful city.  It's rich in history and culture.  I love the people and that I am never bored.  There is always something to do, no matter your interests. We are very diverse and our LGBT community is awesome.

What’s your favorite thing to do in Richmond?

I love the outdoor events.  They are usually free and open to the public.    I love Shamrock the Block,  2nd Street Festival, and the Watermelon Festival.  We have a jazz festival at Maymont that seems to get better year over year.  Richmond offers family movies in the park....just bring your lawn chairs.  I love volunteering too.  There are always opportunities to get engaged.

What do you do here?

I  am a financial services professional with Transamerica.  I work with individuals,  churches, and businesses to plan and protect.  I am also very involved in the community. I serve on the board of directors for Diversity Richmond.

What’s your favorite restaurant? 

We have quite the selection here in RVA.  If I want soul food, hands down, it's Mama Js.  If I want a drink, I'm going to Barcode.

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

Just take a walk downtown.  Visit Jackson Ward, Church Hill, and Shockoe Bottom.  We have architecture, historic sites, murals, the canal, and of course great people.

What's your favorite store?

Diversity Thrift....okay, I am biased.  It is a great thrift store, full of variety and an awesome staff.

How do you spend your free time?

I enjoy volunteering.  I volunteer with my organization Alpha Psi Kappa.  We did River Rock, Susan G Komen, Monument 10k, Color Me Rad, and Shamrock the Block.  It's a great way to give back and meet some really cool people.

What's your favorite neighborhood?

This is tough, but I'd have to say Church Hill.

How do you describe your community?

My community is more commercial than residential.  I like this because during business hours, it's a great place to network.  I am in walking distance to Brown's Island and Shockoe Bottom. I am happy at home in Richmond VA.