Fort Collins, CO December 2025 by City Lifestyle

HOLIDAY SPLENDOR

Proudly banking on Elevations member since 2019

Looking Back, Moving Forward-Together

As we reach the close of another year, this issue invites us to pause and reflect on how we got here—together. Fort Collins has always been more than a city; it’s a living story built by people who care deeply, give freely, and believe in community as a way of life.

Looking back reminds us how far we’ve come. It’s in the local businesses that weathered challenges with resilience, the neighbors who lend a hand without hesitation, and the creative minds who keep our city fresh and full of possibility.

In this year-end issue, we share stories that capture that spirit: a local businesswoman who proves that giving back is one of the greatest measures of success, and a longtime philanthropic organization that continues to change lives as it looks toward its 40 Year anniversary in 2026.

As Fort Collins continues to grow, may we keep honoring the roots that brought us here—the kindness, collaboration, and vision that make this community extraordinary. Here’s to all we’ve accomplished and all that’s still to come.

SCOTT WESTCOAT, PUBLISHER @FORTCOLLINSCITYLIFESTYLE

December 2025

PUBLISHER

Scott Westcoat scott.westcoat@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Jennifer Starbuck jennifer.starbuck@citylifestyle.com

PHOTO EDITOR

Dave Cho dave@davechophotography.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Madeline Westcoat maddywestcoat@me.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Scott Westcoat, Desiree Gustafson, Adriana Karagozian

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Tim O'hara creative@oharaphoto.com, Marek Uliasz

Photography, E.T.C. Photography, World Wonders LLC, Andrew Shafer Visuals

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto

LAYOUT DESIGNER Lillian Gibbs

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler

Proverbs

DON’T GROW YOUR BUSINESS ALONE

Peer advisory groups for Colorado business owners.

At LoCo Think Tank, we connect you with other experienced business owners in a confidential, collaborative setting. Every meeting and event helps to tackle real challenges, with peers serving as your board of advisors.

Join a chapter of other Northern Colorado business leaders in your same stage of growth, already leveling up with LoCo Think Tank.

locothinktank.com

The LoCo Experience Podcast shares the real stories behind Colorado’s most interesting business owners and storytellers. Listen in for laughs, lessons, and inspiration.

Heather Watters FNP-C, FMACP

city scene

1: Traveling with Millbrook puts a SMILE on your face! 2: You'll never know who you meet when traveling with Millbrook! 3: shhh...its not me on the Regent Seven Seas.....it's the Silver Sea!! 4: connecting with the fabulous network of travel professionals 5: Terrell Davis-HOF, Allison HinesCEO, Pete Meyer-Board Member 6: Big gathering at CSU 7: Individual attention from the Rams

ANDREW SHAFER VISUALS

The movers and shakers made their way to the links 9: FORE… Here comes the fivesome 10: Chilling at the Bean 11: Yes, Chicago pizza was part of the plan 12: Smiles! This is the Boys &

GIRLS Club!

ANDREW SHAFER VISUALS

business monthly

Celebrating a Milestone in Design: The 2026 Collections by John Atencio

As John Atencio approaches his 50th Anniversary year, the 2026 Collections Holiday Gift Guide celebrates his enduring artistry and design excellence. Featuring his newest creations alongside iconic favorites, each piece reflects his time-honored design philosophy - hand-sketched, impeccably crafted, and unmistakably John Atencio. Visit the John Atencio boutique at 164 N. College Avenue in Fort Collins to discover the extraordinary. View the Holiday Gift Guide: https://online.fliphtml5.com/cohsi/ hqnf/#p=1 and look for upcoming 50th Anniversary celebration events in 2026.

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The Skin Lounge

Held at The Neighbor in downtown Fort Collins, the event was a dual celebration that debuted The Skin Lounge's boutique loungewear line, KORA at their 6th Anniversary Celebration. Guests enjoyed a "Loungewear Chic" evening that included a red-carpet experience, curated cocktails, elegant tapas, and an editorial-style runway show unveiling the KORA collection, which is designed to embody ritual, rest, and refined beauty. Stay tuned for exciting upcoming events in 2026.

Get OUTSIDE and OFF the Grid!

Owner Brian Dixon is expanding his RV Adventure business from Golden To Fort Collins. He says off camping season they make great “mobile ski lodges” LiveWhereYouPlayRV.com is now in FoCo! Find out more about how you can book one of three off grid RV’s for a real Colorado adventure that doesn’t involve a campground

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Photography by POSHTOGRAPHY

SWEET HEART WINERY: WHERE GIVING IS POURED FROM THE HEART

There is something quietly transcendent about a place built not only on craft, but on care — where each glass holds a story, and every pour reflects the pulse of a family who believes that generosity is as essential as the wine itself.

At Sweet Heart Winery, nestled along the banks of the Big Thompson River, giving is not a gesture reserved for the holidays. It is their way of life, a daily devotion to community, compassion, and connection.

ARTICLE BY ADRIANA KARAGOZIAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY E.T.C. PHOTOGRAPHY, WORLD WONDERS LLC

As Megan Nickelson, marketing coordinator and daughter of co-owners Charles and Farah Oster, puts it simply, “Because as a family, we love people, and we love to help people.”

That simple truth has become the beating heart of Sweet Heart Winery: a place where family values blossom into community action, and where wine is only the beginning of a greater mission. Their philosophy outstretches the boundaries of the vineyard and reaches into the soul of Northern Colorado, touching countless lives through causes both great and small. Megan explains that their purpose extends far beyond the tasting room. “It’s creating

experiences for people to connect in ways that connect them to the community.”

Those experiences, sometimes shared over a glass of red by the river, sometimes through a fundraiser that changes a child’s life are what define the spirit of Sweet Heart Winery.

Over the past year alone, Sweet Heart has partnered with an astounding array of local organizations. “There’s probably over 100 organizations that we had a touch in over the year.” From veterans’ causes to children’s hospitals and women’s support programs, the winery’s generosity has become a steady current flowing through Northern Colorado.

“AS A FAMILY, WE BELIEVE IN CONNECTION, AND ONE WAY WE DO THIS AT SWEET HEART IS TO HELP CONNECT PEOPLE TO CAUSES.”

“Combat Recovery Foundation is an organization out of Northern Colorado that helps veterans that need support,” Megan shares, “and we give back through partnering with one of our ciders. We created a cider brand that’s called Patriot Press.”

Each sip from those bottles carries a story of courage, healing, and remembrance. And for Sweet Heart, it’s not just about pouring cider. It’s about pouring hope.

Another cherished partnership blooms each February, when the winery’s signature Valentine’s wines take on a deeper

purpose. “We give back to the Heart Institute at Children’s Hospital Colorado, and a portion of all of our Valentine’s wines goes to the heart institute.”

Through these heartfelt collaborations, Sweet Heart Winery turns every season into a season of giving. They open their doors, their tables, and their hearts to support those who need a little extra kindness in their lives.

“We also give back to A Friend for You regularly, which provides pregnancy support to women in need, and we support

them in a variety of ways, whether it’s donating wine or donating space. We love meeting the women who are impacted, who are helped through the organization, understanding that everyone is going through something, and everyone just needs a little kindness in their life.”

And the reach of their compassion doesn’t stop there. “Life for the Innocent is another organization that helps children who come from terrible situations that need help, whether that’s food or education. Last year, we donated wine to their gala.”

Even art and music find a home within their giving spirit. “The symphony is coming out December 15th and 16th to Sweet Heart Winery. Their mission is to bring music and education to Northern Colorado.”

In this season of giving, Sweet Heart Winery reminds us that generosity is not measured by the size of a donation, but by the love that inspires it. And as they expand their story with Tesoro by Sweet Heart Wine in Old Town Fort Collins, a new treasure offering wine, cider, and warmth in equal measure, that same heart continues to guide them.

Because at Sweet Heart Winery, giving is not a campaign. It’s a calling.

A family’s love made liquid, poured freely into the hands of their community; one glass, one act of kindness, one connection at a time.

Brent Larson & David Burks sample the Press

that’s a WRAP

DIY Gift Wrapping That Stands Out During The Season

ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON

‘TIS

‘Tis the season to get crafty, clever or characterized! Well-wrapped holiday packages create immediate enthusiasm and somehow seem to make gifts more meaningful. Whether going for shiny, vintage, colorful, rustic, playful or eco-friendly impressions, the following are some Do-ItYourself gift-wrapping ideas to make the wrapping process even more satisfying. Simply applying jute twine to gifts provides a ‘less is more’ vibe.

ADD NATURAL TOUCHES TO CRAFT PAPER:

For gifts with a rustic, organic feel, use seasonal accents, such as sprigs, pine cones and cinnamon sticks, tied up with twine, encircling recycled paper for the wrapping.

FIRST INITIAL DECORATION:

In lieu of a gift tag, attach an oversized paper mâché letter of the recipient’s first initial to the top of the box. The letter then can serve as customized décor, too.

POLKA DOTS:

Wrap gifts in plain craft paper and then cut out big, multicolored polka dots to glue down. It’s hard not to smile at big, bright dots.

CARDBOARD BOX SNOWPERSON:

Wrap three or four boxes in white paper, with different gifts inside, and then stack them. Tape the boxes together, tapering to the top. Glue buttons on the bottom ones, create a snowperson’s face on the top one, with carrot nose cut out of orange paper.

‘tis the SEASON

Attach a real hat, if desired. Tie wider, festive bow around the snowperson’s ‘neck.’ Add a real corncob pipe for a bonus finishing touch, if preferred.

MINI TREE GIFT WRAPPING:

Pine needles and small tips of real tree branches make quick and easy mini Christmas trees that can be glued onto Christmas gifts. They will smell nice, too.

BOOK PAGE WRAPPING PAPER:

Repurpose old book pages by cutting out shapes of dreidels, snowflakes, ornaments, candles or reindeer to paste on gifts.

DIY STAMP WRAPPING PAPER:

Wrap gifts in solid colors of paper. Secure ink stamps and an ink pad in a themed color(s), and stamp the paper as much or as little as desired.

UNBOXED:

Apply other types of containers, rather than boxes or bags, for gift wrapping; examples: canisters, pillow cases, baskets, fabric scraps, maps, glass containers, towels, blankets, scarves, Bento bags (also called triangle bags or origami bags).

GREAT Futures, start HERE

Since 1986, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Larimer County (BGCLC) has been more than an after-school program it’s been a cornerstone of growth, connection, and community support. Each year, more than 2,500 youth walk through the doors of Clubs in Fort Collins, Loveland, Wellington, and Estes Park, ready to learn, lead, and dream.

Inside, they find caring mentors, new friendships, and programs that help them reach their potential through: • Academic Support: building skills for school and beyond.

• Leadership Development: learning to make a difference and lead with integrity.

• Workforce Exploration: discovering careers and future paths.

• Social-Emotional Wellbeing: developing resilience and empathy.

• Fun: sparking joy, laughter, and lasting friendships.

TEENS LEADING BY EXAMPLE

For the first time in seven years, the Loveland-Pulliam Keystone Club attended the National Keystone Conference in Chicago — a nationwide gathering for teen leaders ages 14–18. To qualify,

Impact and

Giving

Back-The Boys & Girls Clubs of Larimer County

ARTICLE BY ALLISON HINES

PHOTOGRAPHY

MAREK ULIASZ PHOTOGRAPHY

members completed over 200 hours of community service and led projects focused on academics, career readiness, and fundraising. Once in Chicago, these young leaders bonded while navigating new experiences — from managing travel without family to sampling deep-dish pizza for the first time. They even applied their financial literacy lessons from Canvas Credit Union to win a budgeting challenge, proving that learning extends far beyond the classroom.

CONNECTING, CREATING, AND CAPTIVATING

The Keystone teens returned home inspired to deepen their local impact. Partnering with BATA Sole, a Colorado nonprofit, they spent a day cleaning shoes, stepping out of their comfort zones, and practicing leadership through service.

“It was one of the most rewarding and impactful experiences we’ve ever had,” staff members shared. “We can’t wait to bring our Fort Collins and Wellington Keystone Clubs to the next national conference.”

A COMMUNITY THAT BUILDS GREAT FUTURES

BGCLC remains the most affordable and comprehensive out-of-school program in Northern Colorado, offering meals, academic enrichment, mentorship, workforce preparation, and award-winning behavioral health services.

Programs like Keystone thrive because of generous partnerships with local businesses, donors, and volunteers who believe in investing in tomorrow’s leaders. Every dollar, every hour, and every act of support helps ensure kids have the tools and confidence to build great futures.

As the organization celebrates 40 years of impact, it continues to invite the community to join its mission of “ Building Great Futures — Then. Now. Always.”

QUICK FACTS

Founded: 1986

Locations: Fort Collins, Loveland, Wellington, Estes Park

Youth Served Annually: 2,500+

Signature Teen Program: Keystone Leadership & Service

Website: www.BeGreatLarimer.org

uniqueGIFTING

ARTICLE BY MEL BOBAN

ADVICE EDITORIAL: ALTERNATE GIFT IDEAS FOR THE HOLIDAY SEASON

The holiday season is officially on, and gifting is top of mind. We’re all used to scrolling online, browsing the malls or hitting the local boutiques, but sometimes it’s fun and unexpected to switch it up. If looking to surprise and delight recipients this year and to bring a new tradition to the season, offbeat gifting can be a great way to turn a new leaf on stale routines.

1) PRE-HOLIDAY SURPRISE.

For those traveling, send gifts early, such as cheeses, fruit or pies.

2) FUTURE FUN.

Browse winter or spring events; snag tickets to enjoy with recipients.

3) GENEROSITY.

Donations make heartfelt, thoughtful ideas.

4) TRAVEL.

Gift a loved one with a trip.

5) TIME.

Is a recipient busy, overloaded and overworked? Treat them to a whole home cleaning before or after the holiday.

6) LOVE OF LEARNING.

If a loved one is planning international travel, grab them a gift card for a language learning app.

7) THOUGHTFUL MESSAGES.

Ask friends and family to record loving messages on cellphones; combine recordings using a video app for meaningful holiday greeting.

8) BON APPÉTIT.

9) RECIPE BOOK.

Gather traditional family recipes and create printed books for guests as priceless keepsakes.

Beyond the Facial

THE STUDIO THAT BECAME A HOUSE OF QUIET LUXURY

ARTICLE BY FOUNDER ESSAY BY AMNA RAFIQ

I opened The Skin Lounge in 2019 because I believed women deserved something better than fast fixes and fear-based beauty. I didn’t want to build a business that revolved around “anti-aging,” pressure, or perfection. I wanted to build a place where skin could be understood, protected, and strengthened for the long run and where women could feel respected, not marketed to.

That belief started long before I ever held an esthetics license. I grew up in Pakistan, where beauty lived in the rhythm of daily life, oils warmed by hand, herbs crushed into pastes, masks mixed in bowls that also held family recipes. There was no urgency, no miracle product, no step that felt disposable. Only care. Only time. Only rituals.

Years later, when I trained in Western clinical skincare, I learned the science behind what I’d always felt intuitively: the skin wants to heal when we stop assaulting it. Barrier-first, not product-first. Long-term strength, not surface-level glow. Precision, not panic. That became the philosophy of The Skin Lounge and I’ve never wavered from it.

We built a studio where skin is treated like a living system, not a trend. Where “pro-age” replaces “antiage.” Where education matters as much as results. I’ve watched hundreds of women learn to trust their skin again, and that more than any before-and-after photo is what I consider success.

What I didn’t expect was that the same philosophy would one day grow beyond skincare.

HOW SKINCARE SPARKED SOMETHING BIGGER

Over time, clients began asking bigger questions not just about serums, but about lifestyle, nervous system health, hormones, rituals, energy, and even clothing Paper-thin fabrics, tight cuts, synthetic blends started to feel like another form of stress on the body.

That’s when the idea behind KORA formed. If we honor what goes on our skin, shouldn’t we also honor what rests against it?

KORA is a slow-luxury loungewear line I co-created with my sister, Hania. She’s a designer and is based in Lahore, Pakistan. I’m a skin therapist. We’ve always shared the same values: fewer, better, slower just expressed through different mediums.

She designs with shape and drape.

I design with structure and breath.

Together, we created pieces that feel like the clothing version of The Skin Lounge: intentional, calm, seasonless, built to last.

KORA was proudly and intentionally launched on September 9, 2025 at The Neighbor in Fort Collins, during The Skin lounge’s six-year anniversary. Instead of a runway, we created a storytelling experience — Morning, Midday, Evening — a reminder that the body has a rhythm, and clothing should respect it. It was a true community driven event.

We also made a choice that mattered deeply to us: we partnered with CASA of Larimer County and donated $10,000 from our launch event. CASA advocates for children in foster care children who deserve safety, dignity, and the kind of care that goes beyond the surface. Supporting them aligned with the exact reason I got into this work in the first place: because care is not cosmetic. It’s foundational.

WHAT COMES NEXT

I am not trying to build an empire. I am trying to build something that endures

The Skin Lounge will continue to focus on intelligent, non-invasive skin health — rooted in science, grounded in ritual, respectful of biology.

KORA will grow slowly, through capsule releases, artisan partnerships in Pakistan, and garments meant to be worn, washed, softened, and loved — not treated like disposable trends.

And in between both worlds, I’ll keep asking the same question: Does this allow us to breathe — and will it last?

I don’t want to be the loudest brand in the room. I want to be the one that feels like an exhale on the skin, on the body, and in the life of the woman who chooses it. That, to me, is luxury.

And it’s the only kind worth making.

If this philosophy resonates with you and if you’re ready for skincare that respects your biology, ritual that grounds your day, and a space where “care” is more than a word — I’d love to welcome you in person.

You’ll find us in the heart of Fort Collins, at The Skin Lounge, where everything we do begins the same way: Slow. Intentional. Rooted in respect.

Just the way skin — and life — deserves to be treated.

“If it doesn’t honor your body or your peace, it can’t be luxury — no matter how beautiful it looks.”

- Amna Rafiq

“Good skin and good design follow the same rule: respect the structure, honor the body, and let time do the rest.”

- Amna Rafiq

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

BOURBON VANILLA BEAN HOT CHOCOLATE

An ultra-creamy, chocolatey holiday drink with a hit of warm bourbon and a vanilla bean twist.

• 2 cups whole milk

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

INGREDIENTS:

• 1/2 cup high-quality dark chocolate (chopped or chips)

• 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder

• 2 tbsp sugar or maple syrup

• 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract

• Pinch of sea salt

• 2 oz bourbon

Topping: 4 large marshmallows

Optional garnish: grated dark chocolate, whipped cream, cinnamon

INSTRUCTIONS: IF YOU ARE READING THIS... SO IS YOUR BEST CLIENT.

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine milk, cream, cocoa powder, sugar, vanilla, and salt. Whisk until smooth and heated through. Add chopped dark chocolate and stir constantly until melted and silky. Lower heat if needed to avoid scorching. Remove from heat, then stir in bourbon. Taste and adjust sweetness or strength to your liking. Top with marshmallows. Add whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg, and shaved chocolate. Optional: Add a pinch of cinnamon and cayenne for spicy depth

Kid-friendly version: Omit bourbon and add peppermint extract or caramel syrup instead.

DECEMBER 2025

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

WEEKENDS THROUGH

Ice-Skating Rink

Old Town Square

OLD TOWN SQUARE SKATE RINK Free Admission and Skate Rentals For Skate Rink hours, call 970-999-0475.

DECEMBER 12TH - 28TH

Garden of Lights

2145 Centre Ave, 80526 | Nightly 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM

This December, let your holiday spirit shine at Garden of Lights!

Explore our beautifully transformed botanic gardens as you stroll along a whimsical half-mile loop, glowing with colorful grapevines, towering flowerbeds, dancing blossoms, and vibrant displays. You won’t want to miss this magical experience — where every step illuminates a world of wonder! https://www.fcgov.com/gardens/ garden-of-lights