articles

New Look, More Local, More Life!

Exciting Changes at Macaroni KID Richmond & Macaroni KID Chesterfield-Chester

By CJ Walker, Macaroni KID Richmond & Macaroni KID Chesterfield-Chester Publisher April 28, 2026

As a mom, a crafter, and your local Macaroni KID publisher, I know exactly what it feels like when the "To-Do" list gets longer than the "Fun" list. My goal has always been to help you find your family’s fun in Richmond and Chesterfield, but I’ve realized that to do that better, I needed to make some changes to how we bring that fun to your inbox and your feed.

I'm so excited to pull back the curtain on the new Macaroni KID Richmond & Chesterfield updates! Here's what you can look forward to starting this May:


1. The "Monday Mini-Guide"


Mondays just got a whole lot easier. Instead of hunting through daily posts, look for our new Monday Mini-Guide on Instagram and Facebook. It’s a one-stop "Week-at-a-Glance" featuring the top events for the next four days across all 16 of our local areas. Save it, swipe it, and plan your week in seconds!

The "Weekend List" you love isn't going anywhere! it will still hit your social feed every Friday!


2. The Birthday Makers Club (feat. Jaleija Designs!)


We are turning the Birthday Club into a full creative experience! We’ve teamed up with Jaleija Designs, to bring our Birthday Club members exclusive gifts:

  • The Birthday Scavenger Hunt: A printable adventure for your child’s special month.
  • Monthly "Quick Craft" Videos: Simple, fun DIYs you can do at home.
  • Free Birthday Mini-Kits: Available for pick-up at our local events and classes!
  • The Monthly Art Gallery: Watch our Instagram Lives to see your child’s birthday shout-out "in lights!"


3. The All-New Homeschool Hub


As a homeschooling family ourselves, we know how much work goes into planning. We are revamping our Homeschool Bulletin into a monthly powerhouse resource. It will feature community-submitted co-op updates, daytime "Maker" classes at Jaleija Designs, and a streamlined resource directory.


Why the Change?


If you’ve seen me around town or at a local event, you know that my "titles" are many: publisher, designer, and crafter. But my most important title will always be Mom.

Lately, the "always-on" nature of running 2 territories along with other life events meant I was missing out on the very moments I encourage you all to enjoy. By streamlining how we deliver your news and resources, I'm reclaiming my evenings for family dinners, crafting and my Sundays for rest.

I want to lead by example: Our families must come first. 

These changes mean that when I show up for Macaroni KID and Jaleija Designs, I’m showing up as my best, most refreshed self for you and most importantly, for my own family.


Thank you for growing with me!

I'm very grateful for this community that supports local business and understands the value of a balanced home. By simplifying our schedule, we’re making room for more creativity, more connection, and more slow parenting moments.

Until next time,
CJ