Blue Springs, MO December 2025 by City Lifestyle

The Magic of the Holidays

The holidays are here, and the spirit of the season is filling our city. The traditions we share with family, friends, and even on our own often bring back cherished memories—whether it’s the smells of holiday baking, the twinkle of lights in the evening, the sounds of carols filling the air, or the simple joy of being together. Growing up, one of my favorite holiday memories was baking cookies with my family. The smells, the decorating, the laughter, and the fun of creating something together made the season feel magical. Now, I continue that tradition with my husband, Austin, and we’ve added a new favorite: making cream cheese mints. It has become a special way for us to create new memories while honoring those cherished family traditions.

This month, let’s celebrate the magic of the season and all that our city has to offer in spreading holiday cheer. From festive events to local shops offering thoughtful gifts, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the season while supporting our community.

While the holidays bring joy for many, we also know this time of year can be difficult and lonely for some. In the true spirit of the season, let’s extend kindness and support to everyone in our community. A small gesture—even just a meal, a visit, or simply a smile—can make a world of difference.

From all of us on the Blue Springs City Lifestyle team, our hope is that your days are filled with love, laughter, and peace, and that together we continue to care for one another with grace and empathy.

Thank you for making our city such a wonderful place to call home during the holidays and all year long.

Happy Holidays!

KATARINA BREWER, EDITOR

@BLUESPRINGSCITYLIFESTYLE

December 2025

PUBLISHER

Austin Brewer | austinbrewer@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Katarina Brewer | katarina.brewer@citylifestyle.com

COPY EDITOR

Cheryl Leppert | cheryl.leppert@gmail.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Tiffany Obermeyer | tiffany.obermeyer@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Katarina Brewer, Breanna Hicks, Austin Brewer

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Megan Cason - Case Studios Photography

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Mary Albers

LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick

Austin turned a magazine into community.

City Lifestyle isn’t just a publication — it’s a pulse. A rhythm of voices, neighbors, and stories woven together by someone who believes in the power of connection. As we expand, we’re looking for people ready to turn care into community. Are you ready to be that spark?

Blue Springs City Lifestyle

Published by Austin

Loved by Blue Springs

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: Dr. Hannah Guerrero represented iMove PT KC at the Cass County Council on Aging health fair. 2: Christian Brothers Automotive, in Independence, serviced over 25 cars for single mothers during National Service Day. 3: Celebrating inspiring women at the Women of Distinction Luncheon, including Meyers Funeral Chapel’s Melodie Chrisman. 4: All In PT hosted its 3rd Annual Cornhole Tournament to raise scholarship funds. 5: Santa stopped by The Learning Experience to spread holiday cheer and smiles! 6: Making memories in Scotland—The Fortner family enjoying a royal view at Edinburgh Castle. 7: Main Street was filled with costumes, candy, and fun at this year’s Trunk-or-Treat!

THE LEARNING EXPERIENCE - BLUE SPRINGS

IMOVE PT KC

CASTAWAY DESTINATIONS

CHRISTIAN BROTHERS AUTOMOTIVE

TIFFANY OBERMEYER

MEYERS FUNERAL CHAPEL

2,434 801 890

Have you been thinking about selling your current home or are you a buyer searching for your dream home? Well look no further, we are here to make your experience extraordinary! If you or someone you know is looking to buy or sell, feel free to contact us. We would love to help answer any of your questions regarding; Buying, selling, investing, increasing your homes value, or the current market status.

A New Face at Merle Norman Blue Springs

Merle Norman Blue Springs is excited to welcome Salma to the team! With a passion for helping women feel confident, she brings expertise and care to every consultation. Customers are invited to stop by and experience the personalized service and “Try Before You Buy” approach that Merle Norman is known for. From skincare to makeup, Salma can help clients discover their new favorite products—just in time for the holiday season.

Keys Health DPC Celebrates New Beginnings in Blue Springs

Keys Health Direct Primary Care recently hosted its Ribbon Cutting Ceremony with the Blue Springs Chamber of Commerce, marking an exciting milestone for the growing medical practice. Patients and community members joined the event, sharing stories and support for the clinic’s patient-centered approach. The celebration showcased Keys Health DPC—led by board-certified Family Medicine physician Vincent DeMarco, DO—and its commitment to caring for patients and supporting the Blue Springs community.

Spreading Joy, One Paw at a Time

Dog Training Elite KC believes dog training goes beyond obedience — it’s about building community. Each month, the team volunteers throughout Kansas City, visiting nursing homes with therapy dogs who bring comfort and joy, inspiring students to learn about service dogs and responsible pet care, and supporting local causes at community events. Dedicated to giving back, Dog Training Elite KC demonstrates how well-trained dogs can strengthen lives and communities alike.

Photography by Merle Norman Cosmetics - Blue Springs

Photography by Dog Training Elite KC

Photography by Keys Health DPC

Healthy Eats, Made Easy

Looking for a fresh, healthy lunch or snack in Blue Springs? Essential Eats Grazing LLC has introduced a new vending fridge at The Queen Bee Boutiques & The Vintage Bee. Grab chef-prepared favorites like charcuterie boxes, signature sandwiches, yogurt parfaits, hummus cups, fruit cups, and more. The fridge is located downstairs in The Vintage Bee near the stairs. Open daily: Monday–Friday 10 AM–8 PM, Saturday 10 AM–6 PM, and Sunday 12 PM–4 PM.

A Boutique Funeral Experience

Photography by Essential Eats Grazing

TAKE YOUR PASSION TO THE NEXT LEVEL

It’s time to think about your student’s instrumental music future. If they are still playing on a beginner instrument, now is the time to continue your rent-to-own contract and move to a Soloist performance-level instrument.

Call Meyer Music today for an appointment to upgrade your Rent-to-Learn instrument to a Soloist Performance Level instrument. Remember that a percentage of the equity from your Rent-to-Learn instrument will apply to your upgrade.

A Sparkly Holiday Gift Guide

FIND THE PERFECT GIFTS THIS SEASON AT KENNEDY’S CUSTOM JEWELERS

ARTICLE BY KATARINA BREWER PHOTOGRAPHY BY MEGAN CASON

This holiday season, Kennedy’s Custom Jewelers offers a sparkling collection of gifts to delight every style and taste. From timeless necklaces and dazzling earrings to luxurious watches, each piece is thoughtfully crafted to bring joy and create lasting impressions. Whether for someone special or as a treat for yourself, these gifts add sparkle and celebration to every moment.

Antique and Estate

2. Personalized

and Pendants

Unique

Jewelry

Charms

Flexible Diamond Bracelets

Two-Tone Dangle Earrings

Engravable Heart & Paperclip Bracelet

Two-Tone Necklace 7. Chunky, Layered Yellow Gold Chains and Bracelets

Birthstone Sets

High End Watches - Rolex

Crosses

Lab Grown Diamond Jewelry

SANTA REMINDS US ALL WHAT TRUE CHRISTMAS SPIRIT MEANS

Santa is Coming to Town

ARTICLE BY BREANNA HICKS

IT’S BEGINNING TO LOOK A LOT LIKE CHRISTMAS!

And Santa is as busy as ever preparing. He says it takes months of planning, teamwork, and a sprinkle of Christmas magic to make the Big Night happen. It all begins with checking his list twice and the elves (the real MVPs of Christmas) crafting and testing every toy. Then the sleigh gets a full tune-up while the reindeer train hard. Even Santa does some cookie endurance training. “Some laps around the sleigh barn and taking part in the Reindeer Games help me stay jolly and fit for the journey,” Santa shared.

JOY TO THE WORLD

Joy—the kind that sparkles in children’s eyes, fills homes with laughter, and wraps the world in warmth like a cozy blanket—is Santa’s favorite thing about Christmas. It’s what keeps him full of cheer all year long and inspires him to continue to spread joy. As Santa puts it, “Joy is like magic—the more you give, the more you have.”

But what inspires Santa the most is the joy he sees in every heart and the way people come together during Christmas. “It’s not just about the gifts, it’s about giving, in every sense of the word,” he says. “The twinkle in a child’s eye, the laughter shared around a dinner table, the quiet moment when someone feels remembered…those are the treasures that fuel my sleigh year after year.”

I WISH IT COULD BE CHRISTMAS EVERY DAY

So, what’s the real secret to having Christmas spirit all year long? Santa reveals it’s not tucked away in a sleigh or hidden beneath a tree. Rather, “it lives in your heart.” He urges us to start each day with a thankful heart, give freely of your time, attention, and kindness, and believe in people. “Believe in hope and believe that love can change the world,” he says. “Live with love, lead with kindness, and let your light shine bright, no matter the season.”

And the beautiful part? Sharing Christmas cheer is a gift families can give all year long. One smile, kind word, act of love, all spreads cheer. Santa shares a few ways we can all spread cheer right here in Blue Springs:

• Adopt a family or child in need

• Volunteer at a food pantry

• Create handmade cards or crafts

• Host a warmth drive

• Sing carols at a senior living facility

• Shovel a snowy sidewalk or driveway

• Share cocoa and cookies with neighbors

Santa encourages the people of Blue Springs, and all over the world, to start a family tradition he calls a Cheer Challenge. He says families who share cheer together not only brighten others’ lives but also grow closer to one another.

SANTA CLAUS IS COMING TO TOWN

Don’t forget to visit Santa at Rotary Park every Friday and Saturday from 6-9 PM under the gazebo, starting December 2 with the Mayor’s Christmas Tree Lighting.

CONTINUED >

Q&A WITH SANTA

Q: What kind of cookies do you hope kids will leave out this year?

A: I love all kinds but this year, I’m hoping for extra-special treats that show off their creativity and care. Sometimes, kids will share their own inventions – marshmallow mix-ins, candy cane crumbles. I love the surprises!

Q: Do you have a favorite Christmas song?

A: “Jingle Bells.” It’s cheerful, timeless, and perfect for sleigh rides through snowy skies. Close second is “Santa Claus Is Coming To Town.”

Q: How do you keep your reindeer so happy and ready for the big flight?

A: It’s a year-round labor of love and laughter. They’re more than my sleigh team—they’re family. We maintain a regimen that incorporates:

• A magical diet of enchanted oats, the occasional peppermint treat, and carrots left on Christmas Eve

• Daily training flights

• Reindeer games, such as Hoofball and Tag the Tinsel

• Music—Blitzen’s got some serious moves

• Cozy stables filled with twinkling lights, TLC, and plenty of praise And just between us, Donner’s been working on a new midair spin for this year’s takeoff. It’s going to be spectacular!

Q: Where do you like to visit in Blue Springs when you’re not busy preparing?

A: I enjoy spending my time just blending in with the fine citizens of Blue Springs, almost like a little game of hide-and-seek. Occasionally I do get recognized by children and their parents, but it gives me an opportunity to watch all the kindness bloom in such a magical city.

Q: What can you tell children (and adults) who may not be feeling merry this year?

A: Sometimes, even during the most twinkly time of year, hearts can feel a little heavy—and that’s okay. Even at the North Pole, we have quiet days. Feeling sad, tired, or overwhelmed doesn’t mean you’re doing Christmas wrong, it means you’re human. And remember, there are people who care about you deeply.

If the usual traditions don’t feel merry, create new ones. Watch a silly movie, write a letter to your future self, or do something kind for someone else. Sometimes giving joy helps us find our own.

And remember: the Christmas spirit isn’t just about being merry, it’s about being real, being kind, and believing that brighter days are ahead.

So…always be Kind and always Believe!!

Dan & Jodie Orel

the power of a movement

The You Matter Movement turns compassion into action — reminding everyone that they matter

When Bobby Hines lost his brother to mental health struggles, the grief was deep—but so was the determination to do something that mattered. Together with longtime friend Jason Stillwell, he turned that pain into purpose. On March 31, 2023, the two founded the You Matter Movement, a nonprofit built on a simple but powerful belief: Everyone matters.

“After my brother passed, the phrase ‘you matter’ kept coming up,” Bobby recalled. “I kept seeing this quote that really stuck with me: ‘Just a reminder in case your mind is playing tricks on you today: You matter. You’re important. You’re loved. And your presence on this earth makes a difference whether you see it or not.’ Those words hit me hard, and I couldn’t let them go.”

That message became the heartbeat of the You Matter Movement—a call for awareness, understanding, and hope for anyone struggling with mental health challenges, addiction, or food insecurity.

“Our goal is to change someone’s day, and bring a little light into the darkness,” Bobby shared.

From that mission came action—lots of it. Over the past two years, the You Matter team and community volunteers have packed and delivered more than 18,000

ARTICLE BY KATARINA BREWER PHOTOGRAPHY BY YOU MATTER MOVEMENT

lunches through their summer meal program. Each week, volunteers gather at Sandy’s Restaurant to prepare lunches that are delivered to five housing complexes across Blue Springs, ensuring kids and families have meals during the summer months.

“There’s a little boy at the Ridge Apartments who’s been part of our program for about three years,” Bobby shared. “When we come to deliver meals, he comes out to get orders for other people and delivers those lunches around the neighborhood. He’s become part of our movement—it’s about showing up for people, and now he’s showing up for others.”

That’s the heart of the You Matter Movement: people helping people, one act of kindness at a time.

Beyond the meal program, Bobby and Jason host fundraisers like a community car show and fish fry, using proceeds to adopt families for the holidays while giving people a chance to connect—and be part of something bigger.

For Bobby, mental health advocacy is deeply personal. “I had my own struggles with addiction and mental health,” he shared. “Someone gave me a chance back in 2014 and I took that chance—it changed everything. It reminded me how powerful it is when someone believes in you. When COVID hit, so many people faced their own challenges. Losing my brother at the end of COVID was tough, but that’s where this started—helping others who are struggling, just like someone once helped me.”

Through their nonprofit, the founders also promote awareness around recovery and the importance of being there for those in need. “You have to be there for them,” Bobby explained. “They need that one opportunity or break to change things.”

Community members can join the movement through the You Matter Movement website, Facebook page, or their recurring donation program, 9-8-8 —a $9.88 monthly gift. “It’s like giving up a cup of coffee or a few energy drinks,” Bobby said, “to make a difference in someone else’s life.”

As they look ahead, Bobby and Jason hope to expand their reach by supporting recovery houses and offering more structured, safe spaces for people on their journey to healing.

The You Matter Movement is proof that kindness creates momentum. Every volunteer, every packed lunch, and every encouraging word keeps the movement alive. Their hope is simple—that each of us carries the message forward: no matter who you are or what you’re facing, you matter.

Home & auto. Bundle & save.

THE MAGIC OF THE HOLIDAYS IN KC

ARTICLE BY KATARINA BREWER

CELEBRATE THE SIGHTS, SOUNDS, AND SPIRIT THAT MAKE THIS SEASON SPARKLE

The holiday season is here, and Kansas City is sparkling with festive cheer! From timeless traditions to exciting new seasonal experiences, the metro comes alive with twinkling lights, holiday markets, musicals, pop-up events, and workshops for the whole family. Here’s a look at my 2025 guide to some of the best ways to celebrate and make this season magical and memorable!

FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS

Powell Gardens | 5-10 PM | November 20-23, 28-30, December 4-6, 11-13, 19-23, 26-29, and January 2-3

Take a stroll through Kansas City’s botanical garden as it transforms into a winter wonderland during the Evergy Festival of Lights at Powell Gardens. Bundle up and follow the lighted outdoor paths, taking in the festive display while enjoying the garden’s natural beauty and striking architecture. It’s a perfect way to pause, breathe, and soak in the magic of the holiday season with family and friends.

HOLIDAY REFLECTIONS

Union Station | November 21-January 4

Step into the magical Holiday Reflections Walk-Thru Village at Union Station. Visit Santa, ride the Holiday Tree Slide, and explore sparkling lights, towering trees, and the award-winning Holiday Model Train display. Returning favorites are joined by new attractions, including life-size photo ops, a Gingerbread Village, and a singing Snowman. Secure your tickets TODAY!

QUEEN BEE HOLIDAY MARKET

Queen Bee Boutiques and The Vintage Bee | December

Shop local and support small businesses this season at Queen Bee Boutiques and The Vintage Bee. Find holiday gifts, tasty treats, and the perfect stocking stuffers while discovering one-of-a-kind treasures from local makers. It’s the perfect place to check off your holiday list and enjoy a little festive cheer along the way.

WINTER MAGIC 2025

Platte Purchase Park - KC Northland | November 1January 4

Create magical memories with family and friends at the 2025 Winter Magic drive-thru light experience. Cruise through millions of dazzling, dancing lights perfectly synced to holiday hits and remixed classics on your car radio. You’ll be laughing, singing, and soaking in the spirit of the season.

Photo Credit: Powell Gardens

Photo Credit: Holiday Reflections

Photo Credit: Jolt Lighting

Photo Credit: Queen Bee Boutiques and The Vintage Bee

A Better Golf Swing for 2026

SwingMotion - Advanced golf swing trainer and motion tracking system

Looking for the perfect gift for the golfer in your life this holiday season? Forget the novelty socks and new headcovers and give them something that can actually improve their game. SwingMotion is a smart, innovative tool designed to help golfers of all skill levels unlock their best swing yet by helping them measure their movements.

SwingMotion uses advanced motion capture technology to analyze your swing in several key areas:

1. Wrist Movement

2. Hip Movement (rotation & side bend)

3. Torso Movement (rotation, side bend & forward bend)

4. X-Factor (the separation between your hip and torso movement)

It also tracks tempo, rotation, club path, and wrist movement. Simply attach the lightweight sensor to your glove, take a few swings, and watch the data come to life in the app. It’s like having a personal golf coach available anytime, anywhere.

One of the biggest advantages of SwingMotion is its ability to translate complex swing mechanics into simple, visual feedback. You’ll see exactly where you need to improve using their user friendly app. The SwingMotion app also provides personalized drills to help you make immediate adjustments and measurable progress.

Each SwingMotion kit includes everything you need to get started: two sensors, two clips, a waist belt, wrist strap, vest, palm strap and charging cable.

Whether you’re a weekend golfer looking to shave a few strokes off your game or a dedicated player fine-tuning your technique, SwingMotion offers a fun and effective way to elevate your swing in 2026.

WINTER in a glass

HOLIDAY COCKTAILS & COZY CREATIONS

SPICED CINNAMON RUM FLIP

A luscious holiday cocktail with warming spices, rich texture, and a beautiful cinnamon garnish.

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 oz dark or spiced rum

• 3/4 oz cinnamon simple syrup

• 1 oz heavy cream

• 1 whole egg

• Dash of ground nutmeg

• Dash of vanilla extract

Garnish: cinnamon stick and a light dusting of nutmeg or cinnamon

Make Cinnamon Simple Syrup:

Combine 1/2 cup sugar, 1/2 cup water, and 2 cinnamon sticks in a saucepan. Simmer for 10 mins, let cool, and strain. Store in the fridge.

Add rum, cinnamon syrup, cream, egg, vanilla, and a pinch of nutmeg to a shaker. Shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds to emulsify the egg. Strain into a coupe or stemmed glass like the one in your photo. Top with a cinnamon stick across the rim and a dusting of nutmeg or cinnamon. Optional: Add 1/2 oz chilled espresso for a coffee kick.

FESTIVE CRANBERRY GIN FIZZ

A bright, elegant cocktail with a foamy top and a hint of holiday spirit.

INSTRUCTIONS:

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 oz gin

• 1 oz cranberry juice

• 3/4 oz lemon juice

• 1/2 oz simple syrup

• 1 egg white

Optional: splash of sparkling water or club soda

Garnish: fresh rosemary or thyme sprig

INSTRUCTIONS:

In a cocktail shaker, combine gin, cranberry juice, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white. Shake vigorously for about 20 seconds to create the frothy top. Double strain into a chilled coupe glass to get that smooth, foamy top. Add a small splash of sparkling water if you’d like a bit of fizz. Gently place a sprig of rosemary or thyme on top of the foam.

Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, these holiday drinks are guaranteed to bring a little extra cheer to your cup.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

DECEMBER – JANUARY 4TH

Big Christmas Pop-Up

Martin City Brewing Company Locations

Martin City Brewing Company is introducing a new holiday tradition at all six locations. Each taproom has been transformed into a festive wonderland with over-the-top décor, themed drinks, hot chocolate, food and treats, and nonstop holiday cheer. For more information and to reserve your spot, visit www.martincitybrewingcompany.com/big-christmas

DECEMBER 6TH

Christmas on Main & Holiday Night Market

Downtown Blue Springs | 2:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Celebrate the season at the Downtown Blue Springs Holiday Festival. Enjoy photos with Santa, a festive Christmas Cookie Crawl, food and coffee trucks, over 40 local vendors, and the Passport to Main Street shopping experience. Explore, shop, and win prizes while spreading holiday cheer. Don’t miss this fun, family-friendly night market packed with local cheer, Santa, cocoa, activities, and more!

DECEMBER 13TH

3rd Annual Westport Christmas Market

Westport Regional Business League | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

The Westport Christmas Market returns for its third year. This beloved holiday tradition transforms the Historic Westport District into a winter wonderland featuring Kansas City-area makers and crafters, festive drinks, carolers, holiday crafts, and visits from Santa and Buddy the Elf. Enjoy a day of festive fun and holiday spirit with the whole family.

DECEMBER 13TH

Sugar Plum Dreams

Merle Norman Cosmetics - Blue Springs | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Step into a whimsical world of Sugar Plum Dreams at Merle Norman Cosmetics. Inspired by the Limited-Edition Holiday Collection, guests can fill mini stockings with Petite Treats and personalize them for a charming keepsake gift. Everyone who joins the fun will also be entered to win a magical Sugar Plum Surprise.

DECEMBER 20TH

Sleigh the Dance Floor: Turn Up Dance Party

Trinity Wellness | 6:00 PM –7:30 PM

Get ready to Sleigh the Dance Floor at Trinity Wellness! Join Dusty for a high-energy, festive Turn Up® Dance Party with remixed holiday hits, fun choreography, and plenty of good vibes. Come dressed in your most festive look, enjoy themed drinks, and get ready to move, sweat, and celebrate the season together. Learn more and register at www.trinitywellnesskc.com/monthly-classes-events.html.

DECEMBER 31ST

NYE Live! 2026

Kansas City Power and Light | 8:00 PM

Celebrate New Year’s in style with exclusive access to over 11 bars and nightclubs, all-inclusive food and drinks, live entertainment, confetti cannons, and Kansas City’s ultimate midnight countdown with a dazzling Times Square–style ball drop! Get your tickets now at www.powerandlightdistrict.com/Events-and-Entertainment.