Today we’d like to introduce you to Lacresia Chestnut

Hi Lacresia , please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.

In 2017, Lavish and Thrifty, a lifestyle brand, began with a single trip that sparked a lot of curiosity. I traveled to Dubai using a Groupon, and everyone was asking me how I made it happen and what it cost. When I got back, I wrote a blog post about the experience and shared it on Facebook. The post gained so much attention that it inspired me to launch a full blog, where I could share how I manage my money to “FUNd” my lifestyle. Since then, it’s been a journey of sharing tips, stories, and strategies to help others enjoy life on a budget.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?

The journey hasn’t been smooth. One of the biggest struggles has been messaging—finding a way to convey a clear, authentic message that genuinely resonates with people and offers them something they can believe in. Balancing this with the demands of a 9-5 job has also been challenging, as time and energy are limited. But each struggle has been a learning experience, helping me refine my approach and build a brand that truly reflects what I stand for.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?

I’m a Business Systems Analyst in the banking industry, following a 15-year career as an Auditor, where I became known for a unique approach: I didn’t just audit financials—I loved helping people understand their own finances to build stability while still enjoying life. I became a Certified Internal Auditor just before a life-changing trip to Dubai in 2017, which sparked Lavish and Thrifty. What sets me apart is the combination of my technical skills with a genuine passion for empowering others to take control of their finances in a way that balances responsibility and fun. I’m proud of the impact I’ve had in showing people they can be financially savvy and enjoy life at the same time.

What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?

What I like most about Richmond, Virginia, is the incredible food scene and the abundance of local restaurants to explore. The cost of living is also very affordable, which makes life here comfortable. Plus, the city’s rich history adds a unique charm and plenty of character. However, what I like least is the lack of big attractions or major sports teams. When I want to really enjoy myself or experience something exciting, I often feel the need to travel outside of Richmond.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.lavishandthrifty.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lavishandthrifty
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@lavishandthrifty
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@lavishandthrifty