What inspired our sponsor Rachel Turula to create “Things to Do, Del Ray VA”? When you find out, you are going to want to sign up for her news blast!

About Things to do: Del Ray, VA — A hyperlocal media company and the #1 newsletter in Del Ray, Alexandria, the organization was founded in 2024 by Rachel Turula.

She explains, “Del Ray, VA has quickly become the neighborhood’s go-to source for local news, events, and updates, reaching an audience of over 16,000 across the email newsletter and social media. Just minutes from Washington, D.C., Del Ray is one of Alexandria, Virginia’s most desirable neighborhoods, known for its independent businesses, historic charm, and close-knit culture. Alexandria was ranked the #3 Best Small City in the U.S. by Condé Nast Traveler in 2025, recognized nationally for its livability, creativity, and quality of life.”

Rachel says that Things to do: Del Ray, VA’s mission is to celebrate the community by elevating local happenings for all to enjoy, while serving as a bridge between residents, visitors, and businesses. The platform connects people to the experiences, events, and brands that shape everyday life in Del Ray. “There are so many fun things to do in Del Ray, Alexandria. Now you’ll always know what they are. Join the community.”

Join over 7,000 locals and see what’s happening this week at thingstodoindelrayva.com.

Scroll down to learn more about Rachel and her journey!

Before anything exists in the world, someone has to create it.

One of the greatest gifts we have as human beings is the ability to create.

We each express that creativity differently. Some of us write. Some paint. Some bake. Some take photographs or make videos. Some invent. Some build businesses, solve problems, ask thoughtful questions, or bring communities together. Every meaningful creation begins with an idea and someone willing to bring it to life.

When I was in elementary school, I entered a poetry contest. I’d never written anything like it before, but I had thoughts and I wanted to try to share them. Why not me?

A few weeks later, I found out my poem had been selected for publication in my school’s poetry book.

Seeing my name in print was exciting. What stayed with me even more was that I had shared an idea that existed only in my imagination and it was now out there for other people to read and relate to.

The poetry contest was a catalyst for what came next.

I took my love of baking and launched a baking business when I was 15 years old, and later opened a cottage bakery when I was 30.

I started a food blog in college that transformed into a place to share recipes and personal stories and a media brand to cover and promote food festivals in Washington, DC.

Now I am the founder and publisher of Things to do Del Ray, a media company whose mission is to bring together the community and the wonderful businesses that make it special.

What’s the common thread?

Having an idea. Making a plan. Ignoring the doubters. And bringing it to life.

Having a voice is your right as a human being. Sharing your voice is a superpower.

The question is, how will you use it?

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