Liz DeFluri, Contributing Writer
Valentine’s Day is just around the corner and whether you have a beau, some gal pals or are flying solo The Commonwealth Times is here with a list of Valentine’s plans that are not just dinner and a movie.
VMFA: Floris Tea Room and galleries
For an unforgettable Valentine’s or Galentine’s date, make a reservation at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts’ Floris Tea Room.
Inspired by French and English tea services, Floris’ staff offer expertly crafted teas from various guest tea-makers paired with a plentiful rotating menu of sweets and savories.
You can enjoy a beautiful view of the museum’s Robbins Sculpture Garden while savoring delightful, chef-inspired creations.
If tea isn’t your scene, take a stroll through the VMFA’s diverse art galleries featuring over 50,000 artworks from various countries and historical periods — for free!
Take out your rage.
Going through a breakup, or just hate the holiday? Rage RVA has you covered. Located in the Fan neighborhood, Rage RVA provides thrills for those who want to spend Valentine’s Day, or any day, breaking things.
Rage rooms have increased in popularity in recent years and oftentimes, Valentine’s Day is the most booked day of the year. Rage RVA offers a variety of sessions ranging in price and caliber to match your level of rage.
SPCA ‘Dog Kissing Booth’
The Richmond SPCA also hosts unforgettable Valentine’s Day events for all animal lovers. According to the Richmond SPCA’s communications project manager, Amanda Parker. The shelter will host its eighth annual Dog Kissing Booth event on Thursday, Feb. 12, where people can take a playful photo with their pet or one of the animals in the shelter.
The organization’s digital media specialist, Vanessa Gleiser, said guests are encouraged to visit with the shelter’s cats and dogs and share a sweet moment together.
“The Richmond SPCA is a great place to visit on Valentine’s Day to help guests and our pets feel the love,” Gleiser said.
In addition to the kissing booth, the SPCA is also hosting a Fur-Ever Adoption special through Sunday, Feb. 15, where adopters can spin the prize wheel for a chance at prizes such as a free collar, leash, toy or a percentage off the pet adoption fee.
Records galore
For another unique shopping excursion or low-key date, Wax Moon Records on Alamont Avenue in Scotts Addition is the place to be.
Wax Moon is a metal and goth shop featuring vinyl records of all genres, horror and anime videos, t-shirts and other merchandise. The shop also features over 30 classic pinball machines and tournament events throughout the year.
Wax Moon’s owner, Andrew Griimoiire, said it costs $10 to play unlimited pinball at the shop during the week, and it can be a partner activity.
“Most people think of pinball as a one-player game, but actually, you can play it with up to four people,” Griimoiire said. “You can do couple versus couple, which is a format a lot of people like to play.”
Richmond’s record selection does not stop at Wax Moon. If you are looking for a cozy vibe, check out Deep Groove in Richmond’s Fan neighborhood. Hosting talents such as Lucy Dacus, as well as her partner and bandmate, Julien Baker, in the past, makes it the perfect hideaway for any indie lover.
There’s also Vinyl Conflict in Monroe Ward for all the Richmond hardcore enjoyers or Plan 9 if you are strolling the streets of Carytown.
Thrift alone or in a pair
For a delightful mix of retail and animal therapy, pay a visit to Furbish Thrift in the Stratford Hills Shopping Center of Forest Hill.
Furbish Thrift is a nonprofit consignment shop featuring donated furniture, clothing, art and various decor items. All of Furbish’s proceeds go towards animal welfare in the Richmond area.
Furbish Thrift’s general manager, Jada Nunn, said Furbish offers an accessible, budget-friendly way to curb the winter blues.
“You never know what’s going to come into the store. We’re a really good place where you can come in anytime and find something exciting and new,” Nunn said. “On top of helping people keep their pets, this is the kind of thing that helps feel love around the season of Valentine’s Day.”
Closer to campus, you’ll find Circle Thrift. Whether planning a date or a solo outing, Circle Thrift on West Broad Street is packed with unique finds.
Sales associate Celia Stewart said Circle Thrift is an ideal spot for anyone looking for a fun time and vintage or unique items, ranging from clothing and housewares to locally made artist wares.
“Since we have something for everybody, Circle is a good place to find something cute. This year, we even had two different artists make handmade Valentine’s cards. There’s also Rumors and Blue Bones that are within walking distance from here, so you can hit all three pretty quickly and make a day out of thrifting,” Stewart said.
Other second hand stores in the area are, the Clothes Rack, Ashby, Community Thrift and Family thrift center.