MISSOURI’S MOST TRUSTED NAME IN REAL ESTATE NOW PROUDLY SERVES ST. LOUIS.
CURIOUS WHAT YOUR HOME IS WORTH? CHECK HERE:
Photo by Christina Kling-Garrett
Exceptional People. Exceptional Living. WHAT DOES THE GATESWORTH MEAN TO YOU?
JUDITH SCISSORS “ ”
It’s such a welcoming place, and I’ve been able to meet so many wonderful people. For anyone who is hesitant about moving, don’t be. When my grandson stopped by, he thought it was great. Coming from a 20-something, that speaks volumes. —
Discover Senior Living Your Way
314-912-1569 | T he G aTesworTh . com Facebook.com/TheGatesworth
One McKnight Place, St. Louis, MO 63124
The Gatesworth is an independent senior living community conveniently located north of Highway 40 just off I-170
The Gatesworth provides the perfect canvas to enjoy life your way. Living in an exquisitely appointed apartment surrounded by beautiful, lush grounds, you’ll feel inspired to pursue new interests, expand your knowledge, build friendships and embrace your independence.
Discover The Gatesworth and experience exceptional senior living today. Call 314-912-1569.
However you spend this season, if you get to spend it with family, take the opportunity to connect with each generation sitting around the table. I invite you to use this issue as a guide in your efforts to relate.
Columnist Sheila Oliveri offers two book recommendations on Page 10 that can help you glean insight into how the mind of your young child works. Senior editor Emily Standlee highlights holiday traditions on Page 50, some of which might stir up fond memories – an excellent way to bond with the elder members of your kinfolk.
Of course, the holidays are not necessarily a happy time for all. In fact, this time of year can be the hardest for those who have lost someone they love.
Grief is not a linear process, as contributor Connie Mitchell explores on Page 48. Offer quiet companionship to those going through the heartwrenching experience. And if you are the person mired in loss, simply recognizing the ways in which we experience grief can feel like resurfacing after too long in the water.
Lean on loved ones, embrace each other, and take the time to say the things that matter most, whether you are struggling or bursting with love.
Thanks for reading Ladue News.
Amanda Dahl, editor-in-chief
LadueNews.com
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From wood-stain cabinetry and painting “the fourth wall” to emotional responses as inspiration, Anne Marie Boedges of Anne Marie Design Studio walks us through creating the perfect space. Read more at laduenews.com.
LUXURY WITH A Personal TOUCH
By
When shopping for a luxury vehicle, you should expect the quality of service to match the quality of the product. This is the mission statement of BMW of West St. Louis, ensuring customers are treated with the caliber of hospitality and professionalism expected from a luxury brand.
“There is no company without customers, so we make sure they’re number one when they’re within our four walls,” explains Craig Suntrup, owner of BMW of West St. Louis. “Customers aren’t just a transaction – they’re guests.”
BMW of West St. Louis is ranked the top-selling dealer in Missouri, with the best price and best selection of new and preowned BMWs in the region. For Suntrup, the honor is not just a testament to the dealership’s volume, but to the strength of its people and its consistency in earning customer trust.
The Suntrup family has worked in the automotive industry for more than 70 years, and a family-first spirit drives everything they do at BMW of West St. Louis. Being family-owned allows Suntrup and his team to make decisions locally, personally and with long-term relationships in mind.
“People know they can reach me, they can reach our sales managers Brent Straub and Linzie Foster, and they’ll be treated with fairness, transparency, and respect,” he says. “That personal touch is rare these days.”
Whether it’s your first BMW or your fifth, the BMW of West St. Louis team makes the entire experience relaxed and pressure-free — from helping you find the perfect fit for your lifestyle to walking you through ownership options and delivering quick, transparent trade evaluations. They pride themselves on making the buying and servicing process both smooth and enjoyable.
“We’re participating in BMW’s national YearEnd Sales Event, which includes attractive finance and lease programs on many of our most popular models,” Suntrup adds. “It’s one of the best times of the year to buy or lease a BMW. We also have a strong selection of certified pre-owned vehicles for customers looking for great value.”
Suntrup concludes that he and his family truly appreciate the support of the St. Louis community.
“We’re grateful every day for the trust our customers place in us,” he says. “We’d love to welcome you to the BMW of West St. Louis family.”
BMW of West St. Louis, 14417 Manchester Road, Manchester, 636-227-5454, bmwofweststlouis.com
Maggie Peters > Photo by Christina Kling-Garrett
Flex With Lucy & Rex
By Sheila Oliveri > Photos supplied
Cognitive flexibility relates to one’s ability to adapt to new situations and see multiple possible solutions to problems. Often, children demonstrate two styles of thinking: rigid, which limits a child to believe there is only one “right way” to accomplish a goal; and flexible thinking, which can positively impact children’s emotional regulation, problem-solving skills, social interactions, and ability to adapt and recognize different perspectives. This month’s Ready Readers recommendations portray both thinking styles.
“That’s Not How You Do It” by author/illustrator Ariane Hofmann-Maniyar introduces readers to Lucy, a self-proclaimed expert on everything. Lucy’s talents include eating with a spoon and fork, playing the xylophone, and doing gymnastics. Friends come to Lucy when they don’t know how to do something, until Toshi, a new friend, arrives. Toshi eats with sticks; plays “strange” music on an unfamiliar instrument; and his gymnastics look all wrong. Each of Toshi’s endeavors convinces Lucy “that’s NOT how you do it!”
Toshi’s kind response helps Lucy recognize that there can be more than one way of learning and having fun.
“Go and Get With Rex” by author David LaRochelle and illustrator Mike Wohnoutka weaves the alphabet, phonics, and family fun into a game show called Go and Get. Today’s contestants – friends Jack, Jill, and Rex – are issued their first challenge: “When I count to three, Go and Get something that begins with the letter F!” Jack returns with a frog, Jill brings a fish, and Rex brings a duck. The narrator tells Rex, “I’m sorry, Rex, but duck does not begin with the letter F.” Rex explains: Duck is his friend!
Invite your child to discuss their perspective on the problems posed in these books. Ask, “Why do you think Toshi uses sticks to eat?” Talking through each scenario encourages children to ponder and offers parents a glimpse inside their child’s working mind.
Ready Readers is a St. Louis-based early literacy nonprofit. Learn how you can get involved at readyreaders.org.
A New Path to Healing for Uganda’s HIV-POSITIVE YOUTH
By Drew Gieseke > Photo courtesy of Proscovia Nabunya, Ph.D.
Washington University in St. Louis announced in November that Proscovia Nabunya, Ph.D., had received a $5 million federal grant from the National Institute of Mental Health to streamline mental health treatment and HIV medication support for youth living with HIV in rural Uganda. The associate professor and director of the International Center for Child Health and Development at WashU’s Brown School hopes this project will improve outcomes for young people navigating both mental health and HIV challenges.
“I’ve been doing this work for the past 20 years in Uganda, and what we have found is that children who are living with HIV are also living with a burden of mental health,” Nabunya says. “Combined, they tend to exacerbate their mental health challenges. What we’re seeing is that it impacts their adherence to treatment. We want to integrate mental health
treatment to help them feel healthy emotionally.”
Titled Streamlined Treatment and Evidence-based Adolescent counseling and Medication Support, or STREAMS, the new project evaluates an approach that streamlines interpersonal psychotherapy – an evidence-based method to treating depression – tailored to adolescents ages 15 to 19 with existing HIV care.
Researchers hope to identify methods that help youth living with the virus learn to cope and manage their mental health and encourage them to take necessary medication.
“Because they’re living with a highly stigmatized infection, and because HIV is highly stigmatized, it isolates them from people outside their family or household,” Nabunya says. “We’ve had participants who live with HIV, but only the caregiver knows.”
Nabunya adds that having this small network cuts many of these children off from support systems to which they may otherwise have access. Living in isolation impacts a youth’s emotional wellbeing, meaning they may not go to school or associate with other students.
“When that happens, there’s no way they’re going to take their medication,” she says. “If kids take their medication, they’re able to live healthy lives like any other young person.”
Participants will be recruited from participating HIV clinics and screened for depression using a cellphone–based assessment. Individuals will be grouped into three categories, each addressing specific needs according to their responses. Nabunya hopes to apply findings to other populations around the globe.
The study is anchored by a wide collaborative network of experts and institutions, including researchers from The City University of New York, Columbia University, New York University, Makerere University in Uganda, and StrongMinds, a global nonprofit dedicated to improving mental health care. The study will take place in Uganda from 2025 to 2030.
“This project came together because of a collaboration,” Nabunya says. “We all want to improve the well-being of people, but the key is bringing [together] people with different expertise to deliver solutions.”
International Center for Child Health & Development, brownschool.washu.edu/ research-center/international-center-for-child-health-and-development
Dr. Proscovia Nabunya
Photo supplied
Pregnancy RSV Vaccine During
By Dr. Justin Glass > Photos supplied
Many future parents spend countless hours researching what is best for their baby before their child is even born. As an obstetrician, I am asked frequently whether to get the RSV vaccine during pregnancy.
RSV, respiratory syncytial virus, is a common virus that in adults and healthy children causes symptoms which mimic the common cold. However, it can cause serious illness in infants – especially in their first six months.
In the U.S., RSV season typically begins in the fall and lasts through spring, with peak activity occurring in December and January. Receiving the RSV vaccine Abrysvo during pregnancy can dramatically decrease your infant’s chances of having a symptomatic infection from RSV.
Abrysvo is recommended during RSV season (September through January) by both the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists for pregnant women between 32- and 36-weeks gestation. After receiving the vaccine, a pregnant woman begins making antibodies against the virus. The newly produced antibodies are passed to the baby through the placenta, offering protection during their most vulnerable months right after birth. By receiving the mother’s antibodies, the baby is passively immunized by the mother’s response to the vaccine.
The vaccine can only be given between 32- and 36-weeks gestation. This ensures there has been enough time for the baby to receive the critical antibodies needed. While the vaccine is considered safe, some women report mild side effects like soreness at the injection site, headache, or fatigue. In rare cases, there have been reports of pre-term
birth, but real-world data shows no significant difference in pre-term birth rates between vaccinated and unvaccinated women (5.9% versus 6.7%).
Most importantly, clinical studies have shown that babies born to vaccinated mothers are 78% less likely to be hospitalized with RSV and 61% less likely to get infected, compared to those whose mothers didn’t get vaccinated. Prior to the advent of the RSV vaccine, RSV caused up to 80,000 hospitalizations and 300 deaths annually in children under 5 years old in the U.S. alone.
Ultimately, the decision to receive the RSV vaccine should involve shared decision-making between a patient and their physician. Receiving the RSV vaccine improves your baby’s chances of staying healthy throughout the upcoming RSV season. Make sure to talk to your provider, ask questions, and raise any concerns you may have about the RSV vaccine as well as all the other ways you and your baby can stay healthy during pregnancy and the years beyond.
Dr. Justin Glass is a Mercy OB/GYN and chairman of the department of OB/GYN at Mercy Hospital St. Louis.
Nominations are now being accepted
For the past 71 years, Women of Achievement has recognized and honored women of diverse cultures, roles and accomplishments who have demonstrated commitment to the betterment of the St. Louis region through signi cant, uncompensated volunteer contributions. Please nominate an outstanding volunteer for the St. Louis Women of Achievement Award.
A committee of community leaders will choose 10 honorees to be recognized at the 2026 Women of Achievement Award Luncheon on Tuesday, May 12, 2026 at the Ritz-Carlton, St. Louis.
PRESENTING SPONSORS
Nomination forms and criteria are available now at woastl.org/nominate Nomination deadline is Sunday, January 11, 2026. For questions call 314-896-4962.
Photo by Diane Anderson Photography
Left to right: WOA President Cassie Strom, WOA Award Luncheon Chair Bess Wilfong, WOA Award Luncheon Vice Chair Eleanor Higgins and WOA Vice President Cynthia R. Bennett, Ph. D.
HEALTHY LIVING TIPS
The Gatesworth 1 McKnight Place, 314-993-0111, thegatesworth.com
The Gatesworth Fitness center offer our residents a state-of-the-art space to stay active and healthy. With expert trainers, personalized programs, and equipment designed for all fitness levels, residents enjoy strength training, balance exercises, and wellness classes. It’s a welcoming environment that promotes mobility, independence, and overall well-being.
Precision Skin Care Dermatology 10287 Clayton Road, Suite 360, 314-350-8207, pscderm.com
Precision Skin care Dermatology promotes healthy living by enhancing confidence and wellness through clear, healthy skin. because skin health reflects overall health, our expert team provides personalized medical and cosmetic treatments to protect, restore, and rejuvenate skin, helping patients look and feel their best inside and out.
By Maggie Peters
Shero Imaging
227 N. Lindbergh Blvd., 314-828-2662, info@sheroimaging.com, sheroimaging.com
mammograms, ultrasounds, genetic testing, body composition, bone density, personalized care – all in one place. Shero Imaging welcomes patients for screening and diagnostic appointments with state-of-theart technology, including missouri’s only pain-free mammogram. With transparent pricing and uncompromising care, Shero Imaging is redefining breast health standards in St. Louis. experience a new era today.
Stockell Custom Homes 636-938-5333, stockellhomes.com
Stockell custom Homes takes pride in building homes with improved indoor air quality features and are excited to offer you a healthier, more comfortable, and safer home with the U.S. environmental Protection Agency’s Indoor AirPlus certification. Stockell homes are designed and crafted to give you peace of mind and a healthier living environment.
photo by Henry David Photography
ROMANCEModern
By Nancy Robinson > Photos supplied
We’re head over heels for these whimsical takes on lighting, seating, and storage.
Delicate gold leaf metal ruffles curl into trumpet-shaped blooms in Corbett Lighting’s captivating Pulse family. The mesh-like surface adds a textural, fashion-forward edge to the expressive design. Available as a chandelier in three sizes, a wall sconce, and a semiflush mount, Pulse reads less like a light fixture and more like functional illuminated artwork. (wilsonlighting.com)
Gabby’s Kaitlin chest offers three spacious drawers, each accented with distinctive geometric cutout handles that add a modern twist to its classic silhouette. Use the chest in a bedroom, living room, or entryway – anywhere that could benefit from both great style and ample storage. (donnellyinteriors.com)
Forty West Designs introduces the Boyd channel back swivel chair, upholstered in a nubby ivory boucle fabric and featuring a comfortable curved silhouette. (fortywestdesigns.com)
Functional & Fabulous
By Alecia Humphreys
This once dark, cavelike closet is now a light and bright space, proving that functional and fabulous can indeed coexist.
“The inspiration came from the homeowner’s newly renovated bathroom,” says Franny Garlich, designer at Saint Louis Closet Co. “She wanted her closet to flow seamlessly with the fresh, spa-like feel of that space.”
Garlich started by adding a fun floral wallpaper, then incorporated similar tones and textures throughout to achieve a light and cohesive look.
“The biggest transformation was the brightness and openness of the space,” Garlich says. “By switching from dark finishes to our Legno Ice textured material, the entire closet instantly felt lighter and more inviting.”
Garlich and her team also added mirrored doors to the end of the closet to create a sense of depth and reflection that made the space feel twice as large. “They’re not only functional for outfit checks, but they also add incredible visual dimension,” Garlich says.
Thoughtfully designed cabinetry and statement lighting were the cherry on top of this custom closet.
“The counter-height cabinetry gives her a place to display jewelry, photos, and decorative pieces while keeping everything organized and within reach,” Garlich says. “This is now a sophisticated and functional dressing space. Every element, from the white cabinetry to the subtle wallpaper and statement lighting, works together to create a boutique-like atmosphere that feels both elegant and personal.”
Photo courtesy of Saint Louis Closet Co.
Chimney Prep for Winter in St. Louis
By Carrson McDaniel > Photo by Jim castillo, courtesy of mirelli Tuckpointing
Although the thought of cozying up in front of a crackling fireplace on a cold night is appealing, it’s also important to note that your chimney and fireplace aren’t there to just look pretty; they also need maintenance and upkeep. To protect the integrity of your home and keep your family safe this season, here are some tips from a local tuckpointing expert to prepare your chimney for those brutal St. Louis winters.
Julian Castillo of Mirelli Tuckpointing – a local masonry contractor based in Maplewood that has been serving the community since 1991 – recommends sweeping your chimney every year or every other year, “especially if you’re burning in it a lot,” he says. “Some woods can make it really sappy, and we want to make sure nothing catches fire.”
On the tuckpointing side of chimney upkeep, Castillo advises homeowners to ensure their chimney’s mortar joints are sealed properly.
“If water gets in behind a crack or some open deteriorating mortar joints, it can freeze and make the brick start to pop and crack,” he says. “Also, water can obviously get inside, causing leaks in your ceiling or walls, so make sure that’s tight.” Castillo further recommends checking the concrete cap on top of a chimney, which is another potential source of moisture leakage and could need repairs or potential replacement.
Another common issue for homeowners who have chimneys is animals deciding to make a chimney their new home. Castillo says an open flue pipe is the most frequent place for animals to find their way into a chimney.
“You want to make sure you have a flue pipe cover or a custom band around the cover, which covers the entire top of a chimney with a cage around it,” he says. “A small critter could get in some open mortar joints… but most of the time, they’re coming up through the flue pipe.”
Mirelli Tuckpointing, 2619 S. Big Bend Blvd., St. Louis, mirellituckpointing.com
What type of fireplace is safest for your home?
With modern technological advancements, it can be hard to decide between a traditional wood-burning, gas, electric, or ventless fireplace. castillo recommends a gas fireplace for its safety compared to other kinds of fireplaces.
“If you use wood, it’s probably going to cause the most problems just because certain kinds of woods [produce more sap], which can build up inside the flue,” castillo says. “Nowadays, these newer gas ones are just like lighting a stove. I know people probably would prefer wood, but I would say gas is the safer way to go.”
THIS HOLIDAY SEASON, UNWRAP THE GIFT OF COMFORT AT THE BACK STORE - YOUR LOCALLY OWNED DESTINATION FOR BETTER REST. WITH TWO CONVENIENT LOCATIONS OFFERING TOP BRANDS LIKE AVOCADO, TE P R-PEDIC, STEAR S & FOSTER, HELIX AND MORE, YOUR BEST NIGHT’S SLEEP IS JUST DOWN THE ROAD
HOME CAFÉ
By Andrea Smith
How often do you suggest meeting for coffee? This winter, make it happen at home! Gather a couple friends – or a small crowd – and say goodbye to worrying about parking or seating. Convert your space into a home café in a few steps:
IT’S A DATE!
Send an invitation that sets the mood or establishes a theme. Is this a holiday gathering? Encourage guests to bring their own mugs for a gift-exchange game or send guests home with a beautiful new mug as a gift from the host. Support local artisans in the process by buying from STL Mug Market’s artists, listed at stlmugmarket.com/2025-artists. Hosting in January? Make vision boards for the new year while sipping something hot.
CREATE A MENU.
Evaluate the coffeebrewing appliances you own and the methods with which you’re most comfortable. An espresso machine is great for pulling fresh shots but will keep you busy if the entire party orders
lattes, so offer lower-maintenance options too. Drip coffee is essential for those who prefer their coffee black; prepare a pot, pour-over, or French press. An electric kettle is also helpful for some brewing methods and for serving non-coffee drinks like tea and hot chocolate.
Research best practices and understand milk-to-espresso ratios. The experts at Kaldi’s Coffee Roasting Co. post guides and recipes at kaldiscoffee.com, and Blueprint Coffee offers classes like Intro to Espresso and Brewing Basics via eventbrite.com. Both St. Louis-based coffee shops also sell brewing tools online and at some brick-and-mortar locations. After deciding what you’ll serve, craft an aesthetically pleasing menu. Try Canva, an app and website with
templates for invitations and menus, to curate a cohesive theme and print materials at home.
SOURCE LOCAL INGREDIENTS.
Visit your favorite St. Louis-area coffee shop to stock up on freshly roasted coffee beans. If you don’t own a bean grinder, request the barista grind them according to your brew method. Consider also decaf coffee, tea, and add-ins like flavored syrup and cinnamon – plus cream, milk, and dairy-free alternatives.
For a complete coffee-shop experience, buy or bake pastries that pair well with different drinks. Made. by Lia bakery in Florissant is known for its scrumptious scones and cinnamon rolls, among other treats, which often sell out. The bakery owner’s new cookbook, “Made. by Lia: Everyday Craft Baking,” provides approachable recipes for home-baked goodies and tips for allergy-friendly swaps.
OPEN FOR BUSINESS.
Create a coffee shop ambiance with a jazzy or festive playlist and cozy candles, and channel your inner barista. Set out mugs and utensils alongside pastries, sugar, and honey for casual counter service. Remember, this isn’t a formal dinner party, so embrace a laid-back vibe and quality time with others.
Photo courtesy of blueprint coffee
Photo supplied
A PMMA (Presbyterian Manors of Mid-America ®) senior living community.
boutique beauty at city Foundry
By Amanda Dahl
The bustling City Foundry STL marketplace in Midtown welcomed a new resident this fall: The Injection Bar. We caught up with Cassandra Cheng-Lay, who co-owns the business with her husband Daniel Cheng, to talk about the new digs and what a guest experience is like at the “injectable-forward space,” says Cheng-Lay, which will soon also offer “results-driven skincare that enhances everything we do.”
How are you settling into City Foundry STL?
We love the Midtown community and vibe! There just aren’t med spas in the city – the closest are in Clayton. As a city resident myself, I wanted to bring these types of aesthetic services and treatments here as well.
We’re sandwiched between Garden District STL and Esther & Mila, and it couldn’t be a better spot. Both of those stores are owned and operated by women, so getting to know those two lovely ladies and their teams has been immensely helpful as a new business owner.
You hold your staff to a higher standard than the state of Missouri requires. Tell us about this choice.
We enlisted ByrdAdatto’s legal team, who helped me outline the medical foundation of The Injection Bar. The foundation of any aesthetic treatment performed at The Injection Bar begins with a Good Faith Exam. A GFE is a series of questions related to the treatment(s) that certain medical professionals, [like physicians and nurse practitioners], are qualified to provide. For us, GFEs occur at the start of every consultation with a new client or when the client is interested in a treatment they haven’t previously done.
While GFEs are not mandated by the state, it was important to me as a business owner and an aesthetic treatment consumer myself to ensure everyone who walks through the door receives the best care and feels safe when getting injected.
What kind of experience can a patient expect when walking into your medspa?
When a client walks into The Injection Bar, they can expect to be greeted by me and either Lonnikah, our nurse practitioner who works during the week, or by Beth, our nurse practitioner who covers weekends. We love
walk-ins, so often it’s a very natural conversation with the individual about what kind of emotions they are feeling behind wanting “tox.”
Lonnikah and Beth take a holistic approach to treatments [and are] well-versed in facial anatomy. When someone asks for an injection in one area, they spend time explaining how that impacts [the patient’s] skin and features. [Lonnikah and Beth] never leave the treatment room once in with a client – they draw everything up in front of the individual, as transparency is important to us all.
The Injection Bar, located at City Foundry STL, 3730 Foundry Way, Suite 129, St. Louis, theinjectionbarstl.com
Photo by cassandra cheng-Lay
beth Jacobs
Photo by Jennifer Korman
Lonnikah Holmes
Photo by Jennifer Korman
HOLIDAY WISH LIST > THE DIAMOND BAR
CUSTOM CREATIONS,
Crafted with Heart
Edited by Maggie
In an industry where mass-produced sparkle often overshadows true artistry, The Diamond Bar stands apart as a refreshing return to fine craftsmanship. Founded by master jeweler Chris Phillips, whose nearly twenty years of experience have shaped his meticulous approach, the studio has quickly become a distinctive destination for custom jewelry design.
Phillips created The Diamond Bar with a clear purpose: to bridge the divide between the sterile, impersonal world of online jewelry shopping and the pressure-heavy environment of traditional retail stores. His answer was a studio where clients could feel both informed and inspired and where expertise is offered generously, not aggressively.
The creative process behind each piece is both hands-on and highly personal. Phillips, who serves as both owner and bench jeweler, collaborates closely with in-house designer Jess Troeckler. Every commission begins with the stone; rather than forcing a gem into a predetermined setting, Phillips allows each diamond or colored gemstone to guide the design. He sketches multiple variations –refining, combining, and reimagining until the perfect silhouette emerges. Clients then review a detailed 3D model, ensuring they can explore the piece from every angle before it becomes reality.
Education is as central to The Diamond Bar’s mission as craftsmanship. During a signature “discovery appointment,” clients sit down with Phillips and Troeckler to discuss style, lifestyle and meaning. This thoughtful dialogue turns vague ideas into clear direction, empowering clients to participate fully in the creation of their own heirloom.
The result is jewelry that feels intimate and unmistakably personal. Every piece is one-of-a-kind, born not from a display case but from the client’s story and the atelier’s artistry. There are no off-the-shelf solutions, only collaboration, creativity and a deep respect for the emotional resonance jewelry carries.
For Phillips and his team, that mission extends far beyond selling a finished piece. Their work is about crafting symbols that carry love, memory, and identity. It’s about turning raw materials into stories – to be worn, cherished, and eventually passed down.
When you shop with The Diamond Bar, you’ll know each piece is meaningfully made.
The Diamond Bar, 13360 Clayton Road, Town and Country, 314-548-5100, thediamondbarstl.com
Peters > Photos courtesy of The Diamond Bar
GREAT HOLIDAY GIFTS
Chesterfield Valley Nursery 636-532-9307, chesterfieldvalleynursery.com
Transform someone’s space with chesterfield Valley Nursery’s vibrant Garden center offerings—thoughtful houseplants, beautiful pottery, and unique plantinspired gifts perfect for nurturing the green thumb in your life. For those who adore holiday magic, you’ll find stunning pre-made evergreen arrangements, centerpieces, and wreaths that bring warmth and joy to any home.
Great Rivers Greenway greenwaygoods.com
Support local this holiday season with Greenway Goods. Designed and created by St. Louis artists and makers, they not only make great gifts but also give back to the greenways. From teas featuring local plants to handmade leather goods to hand-poured candles in reusable vessels, Greenway Goods has something for everyone on your gift list.
By Maggie Peters
The Diamond Bar 314-548-5100, thediamondbarstl.com
custom is one thing, but custom at The Diamond bar is something truly special. Stop in this season to find sparkling gifts, stunning designs, and treasures perfect for those you love – including yourself! Discover breathtaking, one-of-a-kind pieces you won’t find anywhere else.
Missouri History Museum 314-454-3172, mohistory.org/shop
Shop St. Louis themed treasures at Sold on St. Louis, located inside the missouri History museum! Sold on St. Louis brings together all the wonderful, delicious, and unique items our region has to offer. So much more than a museum shop, it’s where you shop St. Louis!
The Muny muny.org
Treat yourself and someone you love to the best of broadway right here in St. Louis. muny season tickets are on sale now, earlier than ever and starting at just $126 for all seven shows. reserve your seats to guarantee a magical summer of exceptional musical theatre in 2026.
Sasha Nicholas sashanicholas.com
celebrate the meaningful moments in life with durable and modern monogrammed dinnerware from Sasha Nicholas. each hand-decorated piece features sophisticated designs on european porcelain with your choice of monogram styles and colors, adorned with your own personalized inscription. Go online to learn more.
St. Louis Symphony Orchestra 314-534-1700, slso.org/holiday
Give the gift of music with the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra! SLSO gift certificates can be used for any event – from festive holiday concerts and films with live scores to timeless classical performances. redeem online or at the box office and enjoy the peace of mind that they never expire.
GRAND BISTRO
When longtime operators Michael and Tami Trinh announced their indefinite retirement in 2022 after 33 years of cooking up their Vietnamese cuisine at Pho Grand on South Grand, patrons held out hope that the concept would someday return. Last spring, doors reopened under the direction of the Trinhs’ son, Andrew, with a revamped name: Grand Bistro. The revitalized restaurant features fan-favorite entrées established over the years as well as a new menu of Southeast Asian-inspired craft cocktails.
“It’s nice to be back and…see familiar faces. It felt like a big family reunion,” says Andrew, who along with his sister, Monica, spent his formative years helping at Pho Grand. Trinh, who served as a manager up until the closure, developed such a passion for hospitality that he studied business and entrepreneurship at Saint Louis University. He forged relationships with fellow professionals over the years, moonlighting as a local food and beverage photographer.
During Pho Grand’s hiatus, Trinh dove into the world of mixology. A stint behind the bar at The Golden Hoosier gave him firsthand insight into that side of the industry, and Trinh began developing his own concoctions. The Trinhs felt ready to bring back the family business with his exciting bar program at the forefront.
Inside the 60-seat space, which features the earthy tones and décor from before, a 12-footlong, Brazilian marble-topped bar, hand-built by Trinh’s father, sets the stage for Grand Bistro. Choose from six signature cocktails and three shots, “classics reimagined through the lens of Vietnamese food,” Trinh says. “I love making
super fun culinary cocktails that blend the world of food and beverage. Let’s say you love margaritas. I have the Lemongrass Lady, which is a spicy margarita with Thai chili and lemongrass syrup I make in house.”
In the kitchen, Trinh’s parents still lend a hand preparing their hard-kept family recipes. Regulars can find former favorites on the menu,
down to their previously designated numbers. The 16.01, or Bun Bo Hue offers hot and spicy noodle soup with sliced beef and pork hock, and the 20.01, or Com Tam Bi Suon Cha, is a special crushed rice with a pork chop marinated in garlic, lemongrass, and soy sauce, served alongside eggcake, shredded pork, and pork skin. These wholesome dishes serve as a testament to the Trinhs’ commitment of offering memorable Asian comfort food. “My end goal [for the restaurant] is to provide authentic quality food and great hospitality,” Trinh says, expressing gratitude. “We just want to be there for the community. My parents were there for 33 years, and I hope to be there for 34.”
Grand Bistro, 3195 S. Grand Blvd., St. Louis, 314-448-1060, instagram.com/grandbistrostl
Story and photos by Mabel Suen
HANDEL’S MESSIAH
Joyful Praise Dec 12–14
Shouts of joy from the “Hallelujah Chorus” will put you in the holiday spirit with the SLSO and Chorus performing one of the most famous choral masterpieces of all time, Handel’s Messiah.
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Wecoverall thetopics that matter toyou –from waysto supportsmallbusinessesin thearea, to thehealthnewsyouneed right now,to humanintereststoriesthat uplift andinspire–you’llalwaysstay informed andentertained. You’llscore first looksat our favoritefeaturestories,freshonline exclusives andsomuchmore.
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KVc mISSOUrI
Chefs’ Night Out
KVC Missouri celebrated its 30th anniversary in October at this year’s Chefs’ Night Out. The nonprofit provides mental health and child welfare services, from supporting families and preventing abuse to offering educational aid.
As guests entered the Saint Louis Club’s ballroom, they were treated to specialty handcrafted bites by chefs from Algonquin Golf Club, Bellerive Country Club, Bogey Golf Club, Greenbriar Hills Country Club, and Meadowbrook Country Club as well as Missouri Athletic Club, Saint Louis Club, Saint Louis Art Museum, and Mushrooms Naturally. Some of the delicious bites included ahi tuna tacos and vegan koji rice.
Rene Knott served as emcee, with Erin Williams acting as auctioneer for the evening. Alex Lindley gave a moving speech, sharing information on his nonprofit, Project Wake Up, that raises awareness about mental health and suicide prevention.
Visit laduenews.com to see more photos from this event >
KVC Missouri provides the broadest continuum of care to support kids and families throughout the Show-Me State. We rely on our donors to help us deliver crucial services to children with complex behavioral and mental health needs as well as foster and adoptive families. If you want to ensure kids and families receive the care, support, and opportunities they deserve, I encourage you to donate to KVC Missouri.
– Jason Hooper PRESIDENT AND CEO, KVC HEALTH SYSTEMS
Kathryn Armstrong, Alex Lindley, Ted Armstrong
Sue Stepleton, Kate mcGilly
rene Knott and erin Williams
chad Anderson, Sherri Lohe, Jason Hooper, erin Stucky, Lonnie Johnson
Story and photos by Christina Kling-Garrett
missouri Athletic club Sous chef mitchell Guinan, executive chef barton Phillips
mushrooms Naturally chef J.T. Gelineau
chef Ari Fisdel, chef elijah Fisdel
bellerive executive chef russel cunningham, executive Sous chef mario Koch
Dalton costick, Jill Arbet
chad burkholder, rachel Schuh
Kim O’connor-Soule, erin Stucky, Jason Hooper, Sherri Lohe, chad Anderson, Lonnie Johnson
chefs from east central culinary Arts
Home Sweet Home Gala
In November, guests gathered together at The Hawthorne for the candy- and gingerbread-themed Home Sweet Home Gala for nonprofit organization The FAM STL. Attendees enjoyed drinks, hors d’oeuvres, and photos before sitting down to dinner and tuning into the evening’s program, plus music by Leland Crenshaw. The goal of The FAM is to eliminate the racial gap in homeownership throughout St. Louis. In four short years of operation, more than 335 homes have closed, totaling $60 million in value and resulting in an average increase in client net worth of $28,500.
Visit laduenews.com to see more photos from this event >
We envision St. Louis as a model of racial equality and economic opportunity for all. Thanks to our incredible donors, amazing board, extraordinary clients, and stellar team, that vision is becoming a reality every single day. ... We intend to completely eliminate the racial gap in homeownership throughout St. Louis in one generation.
– Brent Roam
Story and photos by Bryan Schraier
Jennifer and Louis Johnson clarence brownlee and Tamarah Duperval-brownlee
IMake it a merry season when you take the whole family to see live entertainment, from classics retold to acrobatic acts and dancing that will make kids at every age want to move to the beat.
t’s the most wonderful time of the year, when loved ones come a-calling and the whole crew visits town to celebrate the season. If you’re the host, however, planning how to keep everyone entertained ultimately falls on you. Ladue News can help with that: Here’s our guide to six festive shows found around the metro area for the entire family to enjoy.
Ballet 314’s “Nutcracker & The World’s Fair”
The classic tale is retold against the backdrop of the 1904 World’s Fair in St. Louis. The Clara’s Picnic experience, following the matinee show on Dec. 13 and 14, allows littles to meet-and-greet the Sugarplum Doll and her friends for World’s Fair-themed refreshments.
This show runs from Dec. 12 to 14, with a sensory-friendly performance at 10 a.m. on the 12th and ASL interpreted performances on the 13th and 14th. Ticket prices vary and can only be purchased through the Washington University box office or AudienceView, also known as OvationTix. Visit ballet314.org for more information.
Photo by Kelly Pratt, courtesy of the Saint Louis Ballet
“A Christmas Story” at The Fabulous Fox
A perennial holiday favorite, the 1983 film is transported to the stage in this musical, which garnered three Tony Award nominations when it debuted on Broadway. Keep in mind, with a more than two hour run time, this production might be better suited for youth and adults.
This show runs for one weekend only, from Dec. 12 to 14. Ticket prices start at $30 for a single ticket, with a discounted family four-pack available for the Dec. 12 evening performance. Visit fabulousfox.com for more information.
Gen Horiuchi’s “The Nutcracker” at the Saint Louis Ballet
A multigenerational delight, this classic retelling of dancing sugar plum fairies and an epic battle between a nutcracker and the villainous Mouse King enthralls families time and time again. Audiences can become part of a future set when they donate to the Nutcracker Tree, for which an ornament with the donor’s name will be added.
This show runs from now through Dec. 23, with matinee and evening performances. Ticket prices vary. Visit stlouisballet.org/thenutcracker for more information.
Photo of STL Rhythm Collaborative's "moSTLy Holidays" by Tammy Stevenson Photography
Christopher Swan as The Old Man and the company of “A Christmas Story;” photo courtesy of The Fabulous Fox
LightWire Theater’s “A Very Electric Christmas” at Lindenwood University
Audiences follow the story of Max, a young bird who unintentionally travels off course during his family’s annual migration and lands at the North Pole. The show is told in complete darkness, with lights activating the stage and dancers as they bring the tale of Max’s journey to life.
This show runs for one performance only, on Dec. 14 at 3 p.m. Tickets range from $29 to $40. Visit lindenwood.edu for more information.
“A Magical Cirque Christmas” at The Fabulous Fox
Witness the world’s most elite circus performers take on daring feats as classic Christmas music spurs them on. Expect high-flying acrobatics and infectious comedy, geared to delight audiences from children to older adults.
This show runs for one night only – on Dec. 23 – with a matinee and evening performance. Tickets start at $49.50 for a single ticket, with a discounted family four-pack available for the matinee performance. Visit fabulousfox.com for more information.
STL Rhythm Collaborative’s “moSTLy Holidays”
This dance extravaganza promises an interactive element for audiences, from meeting holiday characters and the cast to free hot chocolate before every show. Professional dance ensembles moSTLy TAP and moSTLy JAZZ, with special guests, keep it high energy with a packed, one-hour production, perfect for young audience members.
This show runs from Dec. 19 to 21 at Missouri Baptist University. Ticket prices vary. Visit stlrhythmcollaborative.org for more information.
Photo by Sam Fink of Lumosco Photo, courtesy of Ballet 314
Jonathan Rinny of “A Magical Cirque Christmas;” photo courtesy of The Fabulous Fox
MANY FORMS Grief TAKES
YOUR PRESENCE IS THE GREATEST GIFT YOU CAN GIVE TO GRIEVING LOVED ONES.
By Connie Mitchell > Image supplied
This is a tough time of year for many people, and those who are grieving may feel the pain more acutely. Grief is not “standardized,” however, and allowing yourself or others to grieve in their own way is critical, says Lauren Jones, a professional counselor with Collaborative Counseling Network. Don’t assume grief should manifest in a particular way or last a specific length of time.
“To be bereaved is literally ‘to be torn apart,’” Jones says. “If you think about the image of being torn apart, that’s what’s happening internally to someone who is grieving.” For those in the initial, soul-wrenching stages of grief, quiet companionship can be most beneficial, she adds. If you want to help, try simply being with the grieving person – without trying to “fix” anything. Allowing a loved one to cry or talk or just be silent, depending on what the individual needs and wants, is the most important thing you can do.
All these suggestions most often apply to those facing the loss of someone close to them, but people also experience grief for other reasons. The loss of a job, relocating to a new city, parenting adult children as they leave home – all these things and more can lead to a sense of grief for what is no longer part of one’s life. “If it’s handled well, this kind of grief can be an opportunity for growth and to understand how these transitions are shaping us and our futures,” Jones says.
Regardless of the cause, some grieving people will benefit from counseling or therapy sessions with a professional. In some cases, grief is complicated by past events and complex relationships that take time and expertise to process. It’s also something that stays with us. Jones notes that we don’t “get over” grief; most people learn to reconcile and move forward with it instead of eradicating their grief completely.
“There’s a distinction between grieving and mourning as well,” Jones says. “Mourning is the actual expression of our grief. And so, we need people who can be present with us as we grieve in our bodies and as we feel it, but also then as we express it.”
Embodied grief can create a deep, visceral reaction and is something researchers are beginning to better understand in the context of mind-body connection and interaction. Common physical manifestations of grief include muscle pain and tension, digestive issues, insomnia or extreme fatigue, and headaches. Ongoing stress associated with grieving is also related to increased inflammation and weakened immunity.
Jones notes that internalized signs of grief are especially likely in those who don’t easily or openly express their emotions. Yoga, meditation, and breathing exercises – the same things that can help reduce anxiety and stress in general – can help the body process this physical-emotional toll by calming the nervous system. Encouraging a grieving loved one to focus on self-care can be helpful, too. For example, offer to provide healthy yet comforting foods or go for a walk in nature together.
To be bereaved is literally ‘to be torn apart.’ If you think about the image of being torn apart, that’s what’s happening internally to someone who is grieving.
– LAUREN JONES
Beyond this, Jones recommends connecting grieving individuals with support groups, which are offered through health systems, hospice providers, and faith-based organizations. “I think grief groups are an absolute must for people who are struggling really deeply because you need to be around people whose experience is similar to yours,” she says. “It helps to know there are others who have experienced these same things along with you. It’s healing, knowing you’re not alone.”
Ultimately, “grief is not linear; there is no formula for grief processing, no quick fix. It must be acknowledged and expressed to move through it to reconciliation, not resolution of the loss,” Jones says. “Being a friend or companioning someone in their grief is about being present with them, not fixing them. Our compassionate presence matters.”
Lauren Jones, Collaborative Counseling Network, 1137 N. Main St., Suite 2, O’Fallon, Missouri, 314-323-7733, ccn-mo.com
A Trip Down MEMORY LANE
By Emily Standlee
Revisit these classic holiday experiences in St. Louis.
Nostalgia, one of our strongest emotions, is a longing for the past that seems to flicker to life even more so around the holidays. It’s linked to our favorite memories – from the scent of crushed pine needles to the sight of a house adorned in blinking lights. We hope these festive local experiences spark your sentimental side this season.
FESTIVE TOURS OF ST. LOUIS-AREA HOMES
On the first Saturday of December each year, more than 20 historic sites, museums, and homes open their doors as part of Historic Saint Louis’ grand tour, A Spirited Holiday Past. Pack in as many places as you can in a day or peruse a few sites slowly, taking in their respective histories. No matter where you wander – St. Louis city, county, or into Illinois – you’ll find holiday treats and décor, entertainment, and the chance to learn something new. Dec. 6 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Prices vary; some tours are free. (historicsaintlouis.org/winter-event)
Ever wish you could venture inside Lafayette Square’s gorgeous Second Empire-style homes? Now’s your chance. For its 48th anniversary, the Lafayette Square Holiday Parlor Tour offers visitors a self-guided journey through history, featuring dozens of the neighborhood’s charming residences. Ticket holders can experience carriage and trolley rides, and a free, open-to-the-public market will take place on Park Avenue, so you can get in some last-minute holiday shopping. Dec. 14 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tickets are $40. (lafayettesquare.org/event/holiday-parlor-tour)
Photo of Lafayette Square by Vanessa Abbitt for the St. Louis Post-Dispatch
LIGHTING THE DARK WINTER NIGHTS
Great for kids and the kids at heart, Grant’s Farm is hosting drive- and walk-through Holiday Lights adventures again this year. No matter the mode of transport, you’ve got a first-class seat: Enjoy tunnels of glittering lights, a visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus, animal sightings, music, a tram ride to Bauernhof Courtyard, and the Farm’s famous 50-foot-tall Christmas tree. Select dates in December from 5 to 10 p.m. (grantsfarm.com)
Each year, the Missouri Botanical Garden takes our breath away with Garden Glow, featuring more than two million dazzling lights – and we hear this year is its biggest and brightest event yet. On top of MOBOT’s already extraordinary collection of plants, expect to stroll past huge, illuminated flowers, and experience an array of new animations and interactive features. Take photos and get in on special drink offerings. (missouribotanicalgarden.org/events-classes/signature-events/garden-glow)
CAROLING, CONCERTS, AND SING-ALONGS
Spread cheer for a good cause! The St. Louis Christmas Carols Association has been raising funds for local children’s charities since its founding in 1911, organizing volunteer caroling groups who go door-todoor to collect and give back any donations they receive. Get started at the link. (stlchristmascarols.org/go-caroling)
On Dec. 6, 7, 8, and 12, join the award-winning U.S. Air Force Band of Mid-America for “Spirit of the Season,” combining medleys of holiday favorites and a traditional sing-along. Also on deck are Santa and Mrs. Claus, veteran Cardinals’ announcer John Ulett, and Fredbird himself, who makes an appearance on Dec. 8 and 12. Shows are free; tickets are required. (afbandtix.org)
For even more holiday lights, visit:
The Anheuser-Busch Brewery Lights in Soulard
The Saint Louis Zoo Wild Lights
Tilles Park’s annual Winter Wonderland display
Candy Cane Lane in St. Louis Hills, located at the 6500 block of Murdoch Avenue
Santa’s Magical Kingdom in Eureka, Missouri
Our Lady of the Snows Shrine’s Way of Lights in Belleville, Illinois
The St. Louis Children’s Choirs are ringing in the holidays with a host of performances this year, showing off the group’s highly creative vocal artistry. SLCC comes together with the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra at Powell Hall on Dec. 7; with the Ambassadors of Harmony at Touhill Performing Arts Center from Dec. 12 to 14; and again with SLSO at Powell Hall from Dec. 27 to 28 for “Home Alone in Concert.” (slccsing.org)
Our world-class symphony orchestra is gearing up for its own lineup of holiday classics, one-of-a-kind performances, and collaborations with the likes of the IN UNISON Chorus – in concert with gospel legends The Clark Sisters from Dec. 18 to 19. (slso.org)
Photo courtesy of Grant’s Farm
Photo of the St. Louis Children's Choirs by ProPhotoSTL
Photo of Candy Cane Lane by David Carson for the St. Louis Post-Dispatch
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