Cross Timbers, TX December 2025

Holiday Edition

Creative Elements

Thinking about making some changes in your home? Dreaming about a new kitchen or bathroom you saw on Pinterest or Houzz? Whether it is changing your current look for more modern, clean lines, updating the traditional to more transitional,or simply making your space more functional, Creative Elements is ready to make your next step a reality

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Making Holiday Memories

As the holiday season arrives, our homes begin to glow a little brighter and our hearts feel a little fuller. December always reminds me that the true magic of this time of year isn’t found in what we receive but in what we give—our time, our kindness, and our love.

In our home, the holidays feel a little different these days. With our kids—Ashton, Averly, and Jaxx—growing older and creating lives of their own, there’s nothing more special than having everyone home again. Gary and I look forward to those moments when the house fills with conversation, laughter, and the comforting feeling that, for a little while, we’re all under one roof again. Those quiet evenings by the fire and long talks around the table have become my favorite traditions.

Giving takes on new meaning as the years go by. It’s found in the time we carve out to be present, the kindness we extend to others, and the love we share freely. Whether it’s supporting a local cause, volunteering together, or simply reaching out to a friend who could use a reminder that they’re not alone—these small acts make the season shine.

This month’s  Holiday and Giving Issue is a celebration of that spirit. Inside, you’ll find stories of people and organizations in our community who are making a difference, sharing generosity that ripples far beyond their own homes. I hope their examples inspire you, as they have inspired me, to find joy in giving and gratitude in every small connection.

As we close out another wonderful year, I want to thank you—our readers, partners, and friends—for being such a special part of our City Lifestyle family. You make this community shine.

From my family to yours, may this season bring you peace, presence, and memories that warm your heart well into the new year.

With love and gratitude,

December 2025

PUBLISHER

Angi Burns | angi.burns@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Mallory Newell | mallory.mckeever@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Deborah Dove | debie.dove@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Kathy Moreno | kathy.moreno@citylifestyle.com

STAFF WRITERS

Isabella Van Trease, Sophie Betzhold, Mallory Newell

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Hang Le | hang.le@citylifestyle.com

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Heather Caplick: Heather Lanae Photography

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Azure Reed

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Pixel Perfect Rose, Janie Jones

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich

LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1 - 6: Beasley’s Fine Jewelry in Old Town Lewisville opened its doors for its much-anticipated Baubles & Bubbles event, marking the grand unveiling of their newly expanded showroom and refreshed collection. One feature highlight was the introduction of turquoise from Santa Fe—adding a vibrant, Southwest-inspired touch to the collection. Light refreshments and sparkling “bubbles” were served as part of the celebratory vibe. The event offered an opportunity for the community to meet the Beasley’s team, explore new designs, and celebrate the legacy of a local business.

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business monthly

Congratulations Aspen Gift House

We’re thrilled to celebrate Aspen Gift House on their recent ribbon cutting with the Flower Mound Chamber of Commerce! This charming local boutique is quickly becoming a community favorite, offering a thoughtfully curated selection of gifts, home décor, and unique treasures for every occasion.

Be sure to stop by, shop local, and welcome Aspen Gift House to the Flower Mound business community!

Breaking Ground on New Beginnings

What an exciting milestone as Giving Grace officially broke ground on their new facility! This new space will allow them to expand their incredible work—providing resources, compassion, and stability to individuals and families experiencing homelessness right here in our community.

Cross Timbers City Lifestyle is proud to celebrate Giving Grace as they continue building a brighter future for so many. To learn more about their mission or to donate, visit www.givinggrace.org.

Panther Market Now Open at Peter’s Colony Elementary

Tarrant Area Food Bank North (TAFB North) and Lewisville ISD celebrated the grand opening of the Panther Market / Mercado Pantera—a new Ready to Learn® in-school market at Peters Colony Elementary!

Made possible through the generous support of the American Heart Association and Medical City Healthcare, supported by the HCA Healthcare Foundation, this market will provide students and families with convenient access to fresh produce, pantry staples, and family-friendly meal items right on campus.

At Children’s HealthSM, we’ve expanded our Plano campus to meet more families, right where they are. This expansion means more rooms, more appointments and more access to the unmatched pediatric care we’re nationally known for, reassuring parents this holiday season and all year long. Discover expert care, close by at childrens.com/plano

A BEASLEY’S HOLIDAY

Beasley’s Fine Jewelry's Bold, Trending, and Exclusive Picks for Everyone on Your List

ARTICLE BY MALLORY NEWELL

PHOTOGRAPHY BY HEATHER CAPLICK: HEATHER LANAE PHOTOGRAPHY

Candy Canes and Diamond Rings

Beasley’s new bridal showcase features ten stunning designers and endless customization with favorites from a variety of lines like A.JAFFE, Gabriel and Co., and Mark Schneider. Whether you’re searching for an engagement ring or stack bands, you’ll find the quality and variety at Beasley’s hard to surpass.

Fine Jewelry Meets Customizations

Another new line at Beasley’s, Metal Pressions, combines high-end quality with 100 percent customization. From pendants and earrings to dog tags and keychains, these stunning statement pieces offer the personalization to make your loved one feel special, without sacrificing Beasley’s fine jewelry standards. Add diamonds, birthstones, portraits, thumbprints, or even your own handwriting for a meaningful, one-of-a-kind design.

Big, Gold, and Bold

A variety of Beasely’s pieces also fit today’s trend of gold statement pieces. Many of their top-selling rings feature bold gold settings, turquoise inlay, confetti rainbow sapphire accents, and swirling, sculptural details.

Sparkling Wearability

The popular collection of Bujukan bangles by Gabriel & Co. also shines in-store. These fan favorites are a sure hit with their elegant sparkle and everyday wearability. In addition to their most in-demand pieces, Beasley’s offers exclusive pieces such as

the Aztec gold cuff from Gabriel and Co, of which only 1,000 were crafted worldwide.

Turquoise Inlay

This finer and more subtle version of Western wear showcases rings, necklaces, and more with turquoise inlay. This line displays the vibrancy of the renowned Sleeping Beauty turquoise, which is no longer actively mined, and which Beasley’s is Texas’s exclusive retailer. Handcrafted in Sante Fe, this collection is customizable for any piece, ranging from engagement rings to gold cuffs.

Rest. Renew. Radiate.

This Holiday Season, Treat Yourself to the Gift of Self-Care

Nestled at the base of Lakeside Tower sits SpaVela, a luxury spa offering a balanced blend of day spa indulgence and med spa expertise. Against the backdrop of the shimmering waves of Lake Grapevine, guests can enjoy a serene, resort-like atmosphere paired with massages, injectables, facials, laser hair removal, wraps, scrubs, and waxings galore.

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Each year brings its own unique challenges, and 2025 has proven no exception. Juggling work, family, friends, and everything in between leaves little room for pampering. Simply put, it’s easy to forget about taking care of yourself. Luane McWhorter, co-owner of SpaVela (along with Stacey Maness), encourages guests to not look at self-care as a luxury but as a necessary tool for maintaining the balance.

“We tend to forget, but we have to take care of ourselves to be able to take care of other people. Everyone needs downtime,” she says.

For those searching for that reset, SpaVela’s membership program offers a wellness escape. For a flat monthly rate, members can choose from a variety of services each month, alternating and customizing facials, massages, and other body treatments as they wish. It’s a simple, affordable way to build self-care into everyday life.

SpaVela invites clients and newcomers alike to further embrace the season at the spa’s Christmas event. Held the first weekend in December, their festive open house offers raffles, giveaways, and bonus gifts with every gift card purchase—perfect for stocking stuffers or for those looking to explore SpaVela for themselves.

This holiday season, let SpaVela help you rest, renew, and radiate— because the best version of you is the one that’s restored.

Give the gift of relaxation to yourself or someone you love at SpaVela, located at 2800 Lakeside Parkway, Suite100, Flower Mound, or visit spavela.com for more information.

HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS

ARTICLE BY SOPHIE BETZHOLD

FOUR WAYS TO CELEBRATE THE SEASON LOCALLY

As the holiday season approaches, our community comes alive with festive events and joyful traditions for all ages. From enchanting ballet performances and a dazzling tree lighting ceremony to the excitement of a 5K race with Santa himself, there’s something for everyone. Gather friends and family to celebrate the season and make memories that will last a lifetime at any of these local happenings that are sure to get you in the Christmas spirit.

Kick off the holiday season at the annual Flower Mound Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting on December 6th, with festively lit parade floats and joyful holiday music beginning at 5:30 p.m. Afterwards, bundle up with some hot chocolate and watch the tree lighting ceremony in Gerault Park. The event is free, but the city requests attendees bring a canned food item to donate for the Christian Community Action canned food drive.  01

YULETIDE NUTCRACKER PERFORMANCE

Experience the magic of Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker.  Texas Ballet Theater presents a classic rendition of the enchanting holiday favorite at Winspear Opera House, while Flower Mound’s own Turning Pointe dance studio puts a creative spin on the beloved classic with their Nutcracker Holiday Spectacular.

ORNAMENTAL OLD TOWN

Kick off the Christmas season  at the twoday Holiday Stroll event in Lewisville on December 5th and 6th. Sample food trucks, shop around the square, or take a hayride through Old Town on Friday night before catching a Christmas movie in the plaza or watching the annual tree lighting ceremony. Enjoy breakfast with Santa on Saturday morning before crafting, face painting, and more around Old Town in the afternoon.

PARADE OF LIGHTS

FESTIVE FUN RUN

Run alongside Santa, elves, and other favorite holiday characters at the annual Reindeer Run 5k or 1-mile Grinch Sprint through Flower Mound on December 6th. Afterwards, snack on pancakes and cookies while sipping hot chocolate or coffee, or take a photo with Santa or the Grinch! Hosted by the Flower Mound Rotary Club, all proceeds go directly to local and international initiatives.

02

Love Made Visible

CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY ACTION ENSURES A HAPPY HOLIDAY FOR EVERYONE

At Christian Community Action (CCA), Christmas is more than a season—it’s a time to put their mission into action. Every December, CCA unites the community to lift burdens, bring joy, and make a lasting difference for those who need it most.

“Christmas can be especially hard for families facing food insecurity or financial strain,” says CCA President and CEO Gilbert Montez. “That’s when the compassion of our community makes the greatest difference. When everyone comes together to help a family, we witness love in action.”

That love is made visible through CCA’s Christmas Cheer Program, where parents “shop” for new gifts donated by the community for their children at no cost—restoring dignity and joy to homes where both have been scarce. This year, 1,500 kids and their families will be served, and every toy and gift carries a silent message: you are not forgotten.

The same spirit touches local seniors through the Golden Angels Program. Donors “adopt” older adults by fulfilling wish lists and celebrating alongside them at a festive holiday gathering. This year, 150 seniors will be surrounded with love and reminded that they are cherished and never alone.

As Montez says, “Every toy, every meal, every donation becomes a blessing that restores joy to families who are struggling.”

This Christmas, you can help spread that blessing. Visit ccahelps.org /christmas to donate toys or food, adopt a senior, or volunteer your time. Together, we can turn generosity into joy for thousands of neighbors in need during the most special season of the year.

SWEET TOOTH HOLIDAY

CANDY CREATIONS EASY ENOUGH FOR THE YOUNGEST CHEFS!

In our holiday home, there’s a sweet tradition that revolves around simplicity and irresistible treats—easy candy making. With just a handful of ingredients, we embark on a delightful journey of creating confections that embody the spirit of the season. The kitchen buzzes with excitement as we measure, mix, and pour our way to holiday sweetness. The kids eagerly lend a hand, relishing the joy of turning basic ingredients into delectable treasures. The scent of chocolate and sugary sweetness wafts through the air as we mold, shape, and adorn our creations with festive sprinkles. It’s a bonding experience filled with laughter, shared stories, and the anticipation of savoring the fruits of our labor.

Holiday Pretzel Rods

Ingredients:

• pretzel rods

• 1 cup of chocolate chips or candy melts

• sprinkles and toppings

Instructions:

1. Line a baking sheet with wax paper.

2. Place the chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave at 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.

3. Dip each pretzel rod into the melted chocolate.

4. Place pretzel rods on the prepared baking sheet.

5. Add sprinkles and toppings.

6. Place pretzels in the fridge for 30 minutes or until chocolate is set.

Marshmallow Snowmen

Ingredients:

• large marshmallows

• icing or melted white chocolate

• mini chocolate chips or small candies (for eyes and buttons)

• orange fondant or orange candy (for carrot noses)

• pretzel rods (for arms)

• pull apart red licorice

• Shredded coconut (for snow)

• various candy of choice (for accessories)

• prepared hot cocoa (optional)

Instructions:

1. Thread three large marshmallows onto a skewer, straw, or toothpick to create the snowman’s body.

2. Use icing or melted white chocolate to “glue” the marshmallows together.

3. Decorate the snowman with mini chocolate chips or candies for eyes and buttons.

4. Roll a small piece of orange fondant or shape orange candy into a carrot nose and attach it to the top marshmallow.

5. Break pretzel sticks to create arms and insert them on the sides of the snowman.

6. Pull apart the red licorice and cut to length to create scarves for the snowmen.

7. Create accessories like hats, gloves, and gift boxes with candy.

8. Sprinkle shredded coconut around the base for a snowy effect.

9. Let the icing or chocolate set, and your marshmallow snowmen are ready to delight!

Looking for even more marshmallow snowman fun? Prepare mugs of your favorite hot cocoa, and let your snowman friend enjoy a soak in a hot mug!

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Divine Divinity

Ingredients:

• 2 large eggs (use whites only)

• 3 cups sugar

• 2/3 cup water

• 1/2 cup light corn syrup

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 cup chopped pecans (optional)

Instructions:

1. Separate egg whites into the bowl of a stand mixer and let stand at room temperature for approximately 30 minutes. Discard yolks. Meanwhile, line three 15x10x1 inch pans with waxed paper.

2. In a large, heavy saucepan, combine the sugar, water and corn syrup over medium heat; bring to a boil, stirring constantly to dissolve sugar.

3. Cook, without stirring, over medium heat until a candy thermometer reads 252° (hard-ball stage). Just before the temperature is reached, beat egg whites on medium speed until stiff peaks form.

4. Slowly add hot sugar mixture in a thin stream over egg whites, beating constantly and scraping sides of bowl occasionally.

5. Add vanilla. Beat until candy holds its shape, about 5 - 6 minutes. Be careful to not over mix as candy will become stiff and crumbly.

6. If pecans are being used, immediately fold them in.

7. Quickly drop by teaspoonfuls onto prepared pans. Let stand at room temperature until dry to the touch. Store between sheets of waxed paper in an airtight container at room temperature.

TWO SCHOOLS - ONE HEART

PRIMROSEOLDORCHARD.COM

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.

Capture the ethereal beauty of the Texas desert with this captivating abstract painting, inspired by the unique landscape surrounding Marfa. The artwork features a harmonious blend of soft blues, warm creams, and vibrant red accents, evoking the serene yet dramatic essence of the region.

This piece is perfect for art enthusiasts seeking a modern and evocative representation of the American Southwest. It

to any home or office, sparking

LOCAL EVENTS

DECEMBER 3RD

Lakeside Holiday Event

Music Series Plaza: 2412 Lakeside Parkway, Flower Mound | 5:00 PM

Kick off the season at the Lakeside Holiday Event! Enjoy photos with Santa, horse-drawn carriage rides, sledding, live music by Magen Miller, and the grand lighting of the 30-foot Christmas tree at 7:30 p.m. Free activities include skating, face painting, balloon art, toy train rides, and treats from Lakeside merchants.

DECEMBER 5TH AND 6TH

Old Town Lewisville Holiday Stroll

Wayne Ferguson Plaza: 150 W Church St., Lewisville, Old Town Lewisville invites you to join in the holiday fun! Enjoy food trucks, vendors, hayrides, an inflatable carnival, and tree-lighting ceremony, ending with a Christmas movie in the plaza! Return Saturday for a pancake breakfast, motorcycle toy run, photo buttons with Santa, selfies with Mrs. Claus, face painting, and holiday crafts!

DECEMBER 6TH

Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting Ceremony

Gerault Park: 1200 Gerault Rd., Flower Mound | 5:30 PM

Join the Town of Flower Mound for the annual Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting Ceremony, presented by CoServ! This year’s theme, Characters of Christmas, brings festive fun, holiday lights, and cheer. Don’t forget to support the Christian Community Action Canned Food Drive during the celebration!

DECEMBER 6TH

Reindeer Run and Grinch Sprint

Bakersfield Park: 1201 Duncan Lane, Flower Mound | 9:00 AM

The 2025 Reindeer Run 5K and Grinch Sprint is hosted by the Rotary Club of Flower Mound! Come cheer on our runners and take part in the festive fun, coffee, hot chocolate, pancakes, and photos with Santa and the Grinch. All proceeds support local and international charities!

DECEMBER 12TH

Wine Down with the Grinch

Doubletree Ranch Park (Barn): 310 Highland Village Rd., Highland Village | 6:00 PM

“Wine Down with the Grinch” is the perfect date night opportunity for adult couples during the holiday season. The night features music entertainment, adult beverages, dinner, and a special guest appearance from the Grinch himself! Space is limited and registration is required. Tickets can be purchased online or at The Robert & Lee DuVall Center.

DECEMBER 13TH

Christmas at the Ranch

Doubletree Ranch Park: 310 Highland Village Rd., Highland Village | 10:00 AM

Come out to Doubletree Ranch Park for a holiday extravaganza the whole family can enjoy! Stop by to enjoy photos with Santa, reindeer, sledding, snow play, crafts, bounce houses, trains, face painting, food vendors, and more. Enjoy the park’s festive winter wonderland, complete with lights and ornaments all season long!

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Seeing is Believing

Nestled along the shores of Lake Grapevine, Lakeside Village blends nature, dining, shopping, and living into one vibrant destination. Stroll the trails and take in the waterfront views, discover a mix of boutique shops and local favorites, gather with friends at restaurants that turn meals into memories, or make your home here at one of our thoughtfully designed residences. everything awaits at our water’s edge