Press Release

Andrea Wright, Communications Director | February 1, 2023

Richmond, VA — The Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia (BHMVA) announced today the establishment of a new venture, Events on Leigh, LLC. The entity will serve as the museum’s event curating business. The tag line explains it all – where history, culture and cuisine meet!

The BHMVA is in historic Jackson Ward in Richmond, VA. The building once served as an Armory for Black soldiers and was the first in the nation. When rental clients book through Events on Leigh, the history and culture of the museum become an integrated part of the event experience. In addition to the permanent display on the first floor, featuring a 35-foot interactive timeline of Black history, the second floor offers traveling and national exhibitions.

The aesthetic appeal of the building and its historic charm are matched by the warm and inviting atmosphere presented by the Events on Leigh team. The museum allows for a unique event experience by providing gallery host services (upon request) during events. The Events on Leigh team specializes in curating intimate gatherings, milestone celebrations, corporate events and conferences. The eclectic boutique space can comfortably accommodate up to 300 people. As a full-service event rental venue, the business is equipped with an ABC license and certification and bar services are an option for clients. Custom curated cocktails that pay homage to the history of Jackson Ward will be served. Events on Leigh is committed to supporting Black owned and small businesses and will work with a list of preferred caterers that includes established culinary experts as well as up and coming chefs. To align with the historical aspects of the venue and the cultural ambiance, specially curated menus will be offered that highlight the culinary traditions of Black and African cuisine.

Heather Anderson will serve as the Events on Leigh event curator. She is currently the community engagement coordinator for the BHMVA and will continue in that role. “Her unique perspective as the connector between the museum and the community make her a natural fit to lead the operations for our new venture,” said Dr. Monroe Harris, president of the board of directors.

BHMVA’s former executive director, Adele Johnson, would say the museum was Richmond and Virginia’s best kept secret and it was the goal to be a secret no more. With the social justice issues faced by the nation as well as a surge in the overall desire for more diversity and inclusion in our communities, BHMVA has seen greater interest in Black history and what the museum offers. Having Events on Leigh as the museum’s event management service gives more opportunities to share this jewel of Jackson Ward with the community. While enjoying the event, guests can immerse themselves in the history and culture of Virginia’s Black people. Anderson and the Events on Leigh are committed to making the experience for rental clients seamless and effortless. Said Anderson, “We take a Z to A approach to create experiences based on goals established by our rental clients. Each event is customized based on the interests, needs, and preferences of the client and curated to exceed those expectations. Every detail of the client’s experience is managed so the result is a meaningful and memorable experience for all attendees!”

As the business grows, additional offerings such as exclusive culinary and branded items will be provided as part of client rental benefits. Other specialty items will be available for purchase in the BHMVA gift shop so guests can relive aspects of their Events on Leigh experience at home. For more information, visit www.eventsonleigh.com. ### Events on Leigh, LLC is a full-service event rental venue based at the Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia, specializing in creating meaningful, memorable, and culturally enriching event experiences. For more information visit www.eventsonleigh.com. The Black History Museum & Cultural Center of Virginia celebrates the rich culture of African American people in Virginia and shares their stories to provide a more complete and inclusive history of their contributions to the American story. For more information visit www.blackhistorymuseum.org.