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Home for the Holidays
There’s something truly special about this time of year, the way the air feels crisper, the lights glow a little brighter, and homes seem to hum with warmth and anticipation. Growing up, Christmas was always pure magic in our house. From baking cookies late into the night to staying up just long enough to “catch” a glimpse of Santa, the season felt like a storybook come to life. It’s those cozy, joy-filled moments that continue to inspire how I cel ebrate the holidays today.
In this issue, we’re capturing the feeling of holiday wonder and helping you bring it into your own home. From cozy decorating ideas and festive touches to recipes made for gathering, this issue is filled with inspiration to make the season shine. You’ll also find delicious dishes to share, and a festive drink that’s perfect for celebrating with family and friends. We’ve also included stories of cherished traditions from a few of our partners, sweet reminders that the magic of the holidays isn’t found in perfection, but in the laughter, love, and memories we create together. And lastly, for those looking to trade cacti for pine trees, we’ve included a magical place that makes the holidays feel straight out of a movie.
As you turn the pages of this holiday issue, I hope it inspires you to slow down, savor the season, and fill your home with joy, gratitude, and a little holiday sparkle.
Rachel Baker, Ethan Beazley, Janie Jones, Herman Lee, Katie Levine, Kat Lynch, Jamielyn Nye, Allison Waken, Herman Lee, The Strawberry Inn
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
inside the issue
Cozy Holiday Mornings
Celebrate
A Season to Remember
Discover
Simple
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San Tan Village Annual Wine & Arts Festival
SAN TAN VILLAGE
Gilbert’s Chad Constance has been Promoted to Operations Manager at Rosendin
Rosendin, the nation’s largest employee-owned electrical contractor, announces the promotion of ASU Grad Chad Constance to Operations Managers in its Southwest regional office. These strategic promotions expand Rosendin’s leadership team in Arizona to support growing semiconductor and data center markets.
Constance previously served as Division Manager at the Tempe, Arizona office. He has demonstrated exceptional leadership in managing complex, large-scale building projects including semiconductor facilities, mission critical, and hyper-scale data center facilities for global tech giants.
MAEVA opens up in Downtown Gilbert
MAEVA’S parlor offers a daily escape from the everyday. Warm and inviting, they welcome each day with specialty coffee and a selection of house made pastries, breakfast, and lunch delights. As dusk falls, the space shifts, inviting you to greet the evening with an eclectic menu of cocktails and a prix fixe dinner menu inspired by global flavors.
Photography by MAEVA
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CorePlus makes its U.S. debut with first international studio in Gilbert
Australia’s leading movement destination, CorePlus, opens its first U.S. studio in Gilbert this September 2025. Experience Hot Mat Pilates, Yoga, and Reformer Pilates, all under one roof at Suite 103, 3945 E Williams Field Road. Discover mindful, empowering movement designed for every body and every mood.
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The
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COZY
Celebrate the season with Jamielyn Nye’s go-to holiday breakfast recipes perfect for family gatherings.
MORNINGS HOLIDAY
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAIMELYN NYE
The holidays are beautiful chaos wrapped in tinsel. You’ve got relatives arriving, kids vibrating at frequencies only dogs can hear, and someone’s always asking where the bathroom is. But breakfast? That’s your moment of glorywhen you get to be the hero in pajamas, creating edible magic while everyone’s still half-asleep. Nail breakfast, and you’re basically winning the entire holiday.
These recipes bring the wow factor without the nervous breakdown. Whether feeding twelve hungry humans or just your crew, these deliver. Let’s make some magic.
1 HOUR
CINNAMON ROLLS:
Forgot to prep? In-laws texting they’re “just an hour away”? These speedy rolls are your kitchen miracle, your “I totally meant to do this” move.
INGREDIENTS:
Filling: ¼ cup each sugar and brown sugar, 1 Tablespoon cinnamon
Rolls: 1/3 cup warm water, 1 Tablespoon yeast, 5 Tablespoons sugar (divided), ¼ cup melted butter, ¼ cup warm milk, ½ teaspoon salt, 2-2½ cups flour, 5 Tablespoons room-temperature butter
Combine warm water, yeast, and 1 Tablespoon sugar; let sit 5 minutes. In a stand mixer, combine melted butter, milk, salt, remaining sugar, and yeast mixture. Add flour gradually, kneading 1-2 minutes. Let rise 20 minutes.
Roll into a 10×12-inch rectangle, spread with butter, and sprinkle with filling. Roll lengthwise and cut into 1-inch pieces. Place in a buttered pie dish, let rise 15 minutes, then bake at 350°F for 18-20 minutes. Spread with frosting while warm.
OVERNIGHT
CINNAMON ROLLS:
Sleep is precious, so why choose between rest and warm cinnamon rolls? Make these the night before, stick them in the fridge, and wake up to the easiest victory lap ever. Your house will smell like a Hallmark movie.
DIRECTIONS:
Mix warm milk, yeast, and 1 Tablespoon sugar; let sit 5 minutes. Whisk egg with remaining sugar and salt, then add melted butter and yeast mixture. Stir in flour gradually, kneading 5 minutes until soft. Let rise until doubled.
Roll dough into a 15×20-inch rectangle, spread with softened butter, and sprinkle with mixed cinnamon and brown sugar. Roll tightly from the short side and cut into 12-16 pieces. Place on a lined baking sheet, cover tightly, and refrigerate up to 16 hours. In the morning, let rise 1-2 hours, then bake at 350°F for 15 minutes. Beat frosting ingredients and spread over warm rolls.
INGREDIENTS:
Dough: 1¼ cups warm milk (105110°F), 1 package active dry yeast, 8 Tablespoons sugar (divided), 1 egg, 1 teaspoon salt, ½ cup melted butter, 4 cups flour
Filling: ¾ cup brown sugar, 1½ Tablespoons cinnamon, 6 Tablespoons softened butter
Pure joy on a plate. Kids will lose their minds, and you’ll instantly become the coolest person in the house. Sometimes you need bacon antlers and marshmallow eyes to make it all worthwhile.
Make pancakes according to package directions, creating 6 medium oval pancakes and 12 small ovals for ears. Arrange two small pancakes atop each large one for the face. Add bacon pieces for antlers, halved marshmallows with chocolate chip centers for eyes, and a cherry for the nose. Drizzle with syrup and bask in the applause.
EASY BREAKFAST CASSEROLE:
One pan, zero stress, maximum cheese. Feeds a small army and looks impressive without the effort. Perfect for when Aunt Karen asks what time breakfast is and you haven’t even brushed your teeth yet.
INGREDIENTS:
½ pound breakfast sausage, 3 teaspoons minced garlic, 12 eggs, 1 cup milk, 2 cups frozen O’Brien potatoes, 1 cup chopped spinach, 1½ cups shredded pepper jack cheese (divided), 1½ teaspoons salt, ½ teaspoon pepper
DIRECTIONS:
Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 dish. Brown sausage with garlic, then drain. Beat eggs and milk, then stir in potatoes, spinach, ½ cup cheese, sausage, salt, and pepper. Pour into dish, top with remaining cheese, and bake 45 minutes until set. Let rest 10 minutes before serving.
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Raising a Glass to Love, Legacy, and Giving Back
How a Love Story Became a Lasting Legacy
To Señor Rio Tequila co-founder and CEO Debbie Medina-Gach, every bottle of her tequila brand is a story of love, legacy, and determination. From an encounter by fate that became a lifelong affair to creating the award-winning tequila brand and now authoring an emotional cocktail book, Debbie’s tale teaches us that good stories, like good spirits, only get better with time.
The Gilbert business owner began Señor Rio Tequila with her late husband, Jonathan Gach, in 2007 using her three-generation-old Mexican family recipe. What was a love affair has become a successful legacy that includes an award-winning spirits business, a philanthropic foundation, and her newly published book, One Bottle at a Time: A True Love Story with 50 Tequila Craft Cocktails. The book features a foreword by her friend and business partner, actor Joe Mantegna of “Criminal Minds” and “The Godfather Part III”.
“At its heart, it’s a love story about two people who met later in life through the simple ring of a doorbell,” Debbie says. “That single action set us off on an incredible journey that became Señor Rio.”
Her first published book is a beautifully blended combination of tequila cocktail recipes and personal stories. Each of the craft cocktails were created by her friend and Tucson mixologist Carlos Ruiz, complementing the story behind the bottle. “This book feels like a diary of our struggles and
ARTICLE BY GRETCHEN PAHIA PHOTOGRAPHY BY DEBBIE MEDINA-GACH
successes, the tale of love, loss, and legacy, all expressed through these amazing, handcrafted cocktails,” she explains.
The book has previously been awarded by the International Book Awards in the category of Inspirational Memoir and has received five-star Amazon reviews.
Debbie began writing first when Jonathan was undergoing chemotherapy with the intention of preserving their experiences and the story of Señor Rio. After his passing, she shelved the project for 7 years until she found the strength to share it. “This book was a labor of love,” she says. “It’s filled with memories, emotions, and the same passion we put into every bottle of Señor Rio.”
Proceeds from her book and Señor Rio Tequila sales go towards supporting the We Care Crusade foundation. Established in 2021, this nonprofit organization was created by Debbie and is dedicated to her twin granddaughters, Katalina and Klaudia ages 9, who were diagnosed with Angelman Syndrome, a rare genetic neurological disorder.
“Family has always been the target of my work,” says Debbie. “Having special-needs granddaughters provided me with insight into the struggles families experience every day. With We Care Crusade, we are committed in helping to make a difference one child, one family at a time.”
The organization provides financial assistance, therapy support, and respite care for families that care for children with disabilities. “Each child is a blessing,” she goes on. “Our mission is to remind them that they are not by themselves.”
For Debbie, the holiday season is a time to celebrate together, and raise a toast to life’s sweetest treasures.
“One of our favorite holiday traditions is to have a sip of tequila following Christmas dinner,” she says. “We pull out our Reposado and Añejo and serve them in beautiful stemware, accompanied by slices of oranges sprinkled with cinnamon. It’s our way to remember, give thanks, and toast those moments that count the most.”
With the holidays approaching, One Bottle at a Time is the gift that continues to give and paired with a Señor Rio Tequila bottle, it can be the ultimate holiday match. Based Gilbert and is a minority woman-owned company, Señor Rio Tequila is available in stores at Total Wine & More locations across the nation.
“The book can be the perfect gift when it is paired with a bottle of Señor Rio Tequila,” shares Debbie. “They are both infused with love, care, craftsmanship, and a story to be shared.”
This debut book is now available on Amazon, The Collective shop in Gilbert, and www.SenorRio.com
A SEASON TO Remember
DISCOVER THE COZY BEAUTY OF WINTER IN THE PINES, WHERE COMFORT, CONNECTION, AND CELEBRATION AWAIT.
ARTICLE BY KYLIE STRAWN-BADGER PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALLISON WAKEN, HERMAN LEE, THE STRAWBERRY INN, RACHEL BAKER, KAT LYNCH
Nestled among the tall pines of Arizona’s Rim Country, this place carries a cozy, nostalgic charm that feels both timeless and familiar. It is a place where guests instantly feel at home the moment they arrive. It’s the kind of place where the crisp mountain air seems a little fresher, the stars shine a little brighter, and time slows down just enough to make you savor every second. This special place is called The Strawberry Inn. Its story begins with Carson and Amber Eilers, a couple whose shared vision and deep connection to the area turned what was once a forgotten roadside inn into one of Arizona’s most beloved boutique getaways.
In 2016, when the inn went up for sale, Amber, who has longtime family roots in the area, knew it was meant to be. The original structure, built in the 1970s, had lived many lives over the years. It had served as offices at one point, sat vacant for a while, and later reopened briefly as a small inn before closing again. To the Eilers family, it represented potential, something special that could be brought back to life with care and creativity.
With two toddlers in tow, Carson and Amber embarked on a full renovation, pouring into every detail. Their goal was simple but ambitious: preserve the soul of the original building while infusing it with modern comforts and a design that reflected the natural beauty of Rim Country. When The Strawberry Inn reopened, it was met with overwhelming enthusiasm. They sold out their very first weekend, a sign that this quiet mountain town was ready for a new kind of hospitality, one that felt personal, warm, and deeply rooted in community.
What began as a quaint eight-room hideaway has since blossomed into a full mountain retreat with more than 30 unique accommodations. Each space, whether it’s a restored vintage Airstream, a cozy
family cabin, or a tiny cottage tucked beneath the trees, has been thoughtfully designed to create a sense of comfort and calm. Inside, guests find plush bedding, curated decor, and charming touches that feel both elevated and familiar. There’s even a wheelchair-accessible option, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to experience the serenity of Strawberry.
Over time, The Strawberry Inn has become much more than a place to stay. Especially during the holidays, the property takes on a special kind of magic. As the mountain air turns crisp and pine needles dust the ground, the inn transforms into a festive retreat where the glow of string lights and the scent of cedar fill the air. Guests arriving in December are greeted by twinkling lights, lush garlands, and holiday trees that shimmer in every corner. Inside each room, cozy blankets, candy canes, and thoughtful touches create that “home-for-the-holidays” feeling that instantly warms the soul.
The Eilers family envisioned The Strawberry Inn as a place where guests could disconnect from the noise of daily life and reconnect with what matters most. Whether it’s an early-morning hike through pine forests, an afternoon browsing local antique shops, or an evening spent beside a firepit, every experience here feels intentional. The holidays bring out the
inn’s best qualities, a perfect blend of nostalgia, togetherness, and understated luxury.
The surrounding communities of Strawberry, Pine, and Payson come alive this time of year, brimming with smalltown holiday charm. Visitors can stroll through craft fairs, attend tree-lighting ceremonies, and even meet Santa and Mrs. Claus at local shops. Payson adds its own magic with an outdoor ice rink and community events that capture the spirit of the season. For those craving adventure, there are scenic trails perfect for winter hikes, and if the weather cooperates, snowshoeing is a favorite pastime.
Back at the inn, the feeling of warmth and togetherness continues. The team takes pride in decorating every corner, transforming the property into something truly special. Trees and garlands adorn the common areas, soft lights glow from the windows, and cozy interiors invite guests to linger a little longer. Seasonal decor and a few surprises, such as a cup of cocoa by the fireplace or a small gift upon check-in, remind visitors that it’s the little things that make a place feel like home. Premium accommodations include private firepits and hot tubs, perfect for unwinding beneath the stars.
The Strawberry Inn’s holiday season has become a time when memories are made and traditions take root. Families
return year after year, couples celebrate anniversaries or engagements, and friends gather for winter getaways filled with laughter and connection. The inn has even played host to holiday proposals, each one a joyful addition to its growing legacy of love and celebration. These moments, both big and small, are what the Eilers family treasures most: creating a space where people can pause, connect, and feel at peace.
As The Strawberry Inn continues to grow, it remains grounded in the same heartfelt vision that started it all: family, community, and connection. The team is always finding new ways to make guests feel at home, whether through subtle design updates,
creative seasonal offerings, or new accommodations that complement the natural landscape. Guests can even take a little piece of the experience home with embroidered robes available in premium rooms, a soft reminder of their mountain escape.
At its core, The Strawberry Inn is more than a boutique hotel; it’s a reflection of the love and care that built it. It’s the glow of a fire on a cold night, the sound of laughter echoing through the crisp air, and the simple joy of slowing down to savor the season. For those seeking a holiday escape filled with charm, warmth, and wonder, The Strawberry Inn is the perfect place to pause, breathe, and rediscover the magic of the mountains.
SEASON OF TRADITIONS
FROM CHERISHED RITUALS TO FUNNY MISHAPS, OUR PARTNERS SHARE THE HEARTFELT TRADITIONS THAT MAKE THEIR HOLIDAYS SHINE.
From puppet shows on reservations to matching pajamas and enough crab legs to feed an army, Gilbert families are celebrating the season in wonderfully unique ways. Whether they’re flipping latkes, wrapping presents between serving Pad Thai, racing down staircases in coordinated PJs, or getting lost in a sea of twinkling temple lights, these six families prove that traditionswhether passed down through generations or hilariously improvised last year—are what make the holidays magical
MIKE COLLIER AIM FOR CHRIST
Each December, their family joins AIM for Christ’s outreach on the San Carlos Reservation, sharing the gospel through a puppet show, crafts, games, and gifts for families. They also decorate a gingerbread house, attend Christmas Eve service, read Luke 2 at midnight, open presents, and sometimes travel to Flagstaff to hike and play in the snow together.
MINDY JONES THE AMY JONES GROUP
One of the best parts of celebrating Chanukah is how it looks different each year, it may fall near Thanksgiving or Christmas, but always brings the same joy. This year, they’re attending local menorah lightings in Chandler, Gilbert, and Queen Creek, cooking latkes, lighting the menorah, and giving back through Community on Purpose and The Amy Jones Group’s holiday programs supporting families in need.
PENPA SIMPSON THAI LEW BISTRO
DR. ROB MAC DONALD MACDONALD ORTHODONTICS
On Christmas Eve, the family enjoys a seafood dinner of crab legs and shrimp with the kids and Granny, followed by watching videos of the Nativity and reflecting on the true meaning of Christmas. Christmas morning begins with a family photo on the stairs, kids and the dog in matching pajamas, before everyone excitedly discovers what Santa brought.
The family celebrates Christmas across their two Thai Lew locations each year. They love setting up a Christmas tree at the restaurant, where the kids open gifts on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. While serving customers, many visiting family in town, they also host a Christmas party for their employees, creating a warm, festive atmosphere filled with community and joy.
AIMEE KELLER FOR OUR TOWN GILBERT
STACI HERDT
PERSPIRE SAUNA STUDIO
The family’s favorite holiday tradition is wearing matching Christmas pajamas on Christmas Eve. Another must is making Christmas pretzel treats, a simple recipe everyone looks forward to each year. Her girls love helping, and it’s become a sweet family activity. They also attend The Nutcracker every holiday season, continuing a tradition passed down from her mom, exploring a new production each year and creating cherished memories together.
One of our family’s favorite traditions is going to see the Christmas lights at the Mesa Arizona Temple. As we walk through a wonderland of tens of thousands of lights, we also see scenes that tell the Christmas story, including wise men, camels, and Nativity scenes. This year it’s open from Nov 28-Dec 30 from 5-10pm each night.
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.
Sign up special someone for cooking class regarding favorite cuisine, or cuisine they struggle to make.
9) RECIPE BOOK.
Gather traditional family recipes and create printed books for guests as priceless keepsakes.
ARTICLE BY KYLIE STRAWN-BADGER
PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATIE LEVINE
HOLIDAY STYLE
Simple styling tips and rich seasonal color inspiration to make your home feel warm, inviting, and effortlessly festive.
As the holidays approach, homes begin to sparkle with a special kind of magic, the soft glow of candles, the scent of pine, and the warmth of family gathered together. This season, Carol Hatch, owner and creative force behind Designer Blvd., shares how to create a home that feels festive, inviting, and deeply personal.
“I love design and I love making things beautiful,” says Hatch. “Design has always been part of my story. From growing up helping in my dad’s 20,000-square-foot fabric store to designing my own clothing line that sold in Nordstrom, I’ve always loved creating beautiful things.” That passion evolved into Designer Blvd., a full-service design firm and boutique known for its handpicked treasures, signature holiday displays, and warm community feel.
Each year, Designer Blvd. transforms into a winter wonderland, inspiring locals with dazzling trees and thoughtfully curated decor. “Our team pours their hearts into every project, and our annual Christmas displays have truly become a community favorite,” says Hatch.
For those looking to bring that same Designer Blvd. charm home, Hatch offers her go-to styling advice. “I love our paper runners; they add personality, color, and make cleanup so easy,” she shares. “Then we add greenery in the center, it’s simple but so impactful. Taper candles are a must for that cozy glow, and name cards are the sweetest finishing touch.”
Her rule of thumb: thoughtful details over perfection. “Wrap your napkin with a bow or a small piece of greenery,” she says. “Add a little wreath or swag to the back of each chair. Bells are one of the easiest ways to make everything feel festive.”
When the season winds down, organization is key. “Wrap your breakables carefully and invest in newer Christmas storage
containers; they make the next year’s setup so much easier. Keep florals and greenery in climate-controlled spaces.” For clients, Designer Blvd. even offers Christmas setup and takedown services, so each item is beautifully packed and ready to go.
To set the tone for the season, Hatch starts with ribbon. “I love it all,” she laughs. “Ribbon adds so much joy and a festive feel everywhere. I usually begin with my tree; it really sets the tone for the rest of the decor.”
This year’s color trends lean toward richness and comfort. “A classic red and gold tree will forever be timeless,” Hatch says. “But this year, our burgundy tree is the showstopper, elegant, moody, and luxurious. Our sage and brown tree feels warm and
natural, and our gingerbread-inspired red, white, and brown design brings nostalgic charm.”
For those who love neutrals, she recommends soft layers of tone and texture. “Start with sage greens, soft wood tones, and layer in metallics for shimmer. Greenery is what makes any space feel festive.”
To keep things feeling fresh each year, Hatch suggests updating simple details. “Swap your ribbon, add a statement ornament, or tie bows to chandeliers or mirrors,” she says. “A little greenery and ribbon go a long way in making a home feel special.”
But above all, she encourages homeowners to blend new trends with sentimental pieces. “Those meaningful touches are what make your home feel full of love and tradition,” she says. “It’s never just about decor, it’s about creating spaces where memories happen.”
Whether it’s a moody burgundy tree, a candlelit table, or the scent of cinnamon filling the air, Hatch reminds us that true holiday beauty is rooted in warmth, joy, and connection. “If your decor reflects that,” she says with a smile, “it will always be beautiful.”
Holiday Punch Bliss
ARTICLE BY LIQUID CATERERS PHOTOGRAPHY BY ETHAN BEAZLEY
A CHEERFUL PUNCH BOWL FILLED WITH RICH FIGS, VIBRANT BLOOD ORANGES, AND SPARKLING WINE TO CELEBRATE TOGETHER.
Get ready to wow your guests with a punch bowl that’s basically a party in a pitcher! At Liquid Caterers, we know that the best drinks are the ones that look incredible and taste even better - and this gorgeous concoction delivers on both. Loaded with blood oranges, fresh figs, pomegranate seeds, and all the good stuff that makes people say “Wait, what’s IN this?!”, this punch is a showstopper. The secret? Let it hang out in the fridge overnight so all those fruits and spices can mingle and create magic. Pop it in a punch bowl, watch it disappear, and prepare for everyone to ask for the recipe.
INGREDIENTS:
• 1 bottle white wine (or red if you prefer)
• 1/2 cup brandy (optional)
• 1/4 cup Grand Marnier or orange liqueur
• 1 cup blood orange juice (freshly squeezed, about 3–4 blood oranges)
• 1/4 cup simple syrup
• 2 fresh figs (sliced)
• 2 blood oranges (sliced into rounds)
• 1 apple (sliced thinly)
• 1 pear (sliced thinly)
• 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
• 1 cinnamon stick
• star anise
INSTRUCTIONS:
• Slice the figs, blood oranges, apple, and pear.
• In a large pitcher, combine the wine, brandy, Grand Marnier, blood orange juice, and simple syrup. Stir well.
• Add Fruit and Spices
• Stir gently to distribute the flavors.
• Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best flavor infusion.
• Serve from pitcher or add to punch bowl
Pro tip: make a double batch because this beauty goes fast, and nobody likes a sad, empty punch bowl.
The best drinks are the ones that look incredible and taste even better.
CRAFTING CHEER: DIY WINTER CRAFTS
ARTICLE BY ERICA BIBB | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
ORNAMENT CLUSTERS
SUPPLIES
• 22 gauge wire
• Ornaments of at least 3 varying shades and sizes
• Wire snips
STEP 1
Cut desired length of wire for a cluster, about 24”
STEP 2
Add an ornament about 4” from one end of the wire and twist the wire around the top of the ornament to provide a base for your cluster. Twist about 5 times. You should still have about 4” of wire at the end; you will need it to tie onto your garland, tree, or wreath.
STEP 3
Continue adding ornaments to the wire, alternating sizes and colors until you have 4-6” of wire remaining.
STEP 4
Twist the remaining wire around the top of your final ornament 5 times to secure all of your ornaments in place. Making sure to leave at least 4” of wire in place at the end in order to tie onto garland, tree, or wreath.
STEP 5
Use the ends of the wire to attach to your holiday item of choice!!
Pro tip: Keep your clusters to the 24” length to keep from getting too heavy and/or having ornaments pop off. Ornaments will pop off at times, but they will still look gorgeous and you can always glue the ornament back onto to the top. Simple, gorgeous, and impactful!
Kohler Bathroom Design
Partner with the KOHLER® Signature Store design consultants to find innovative products, colors, materials, and finishes to bring your design dreams to life.
2156 E Williams Field Rd Suite 114 Gilbert, AZ 85295 | 480-400-1008
DECEMBER 2025
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
EVERY SATURDAY
Gilbert Farmers Market
Chandler-Gilbert Community College | 2626 E Pecos Rd, Chandler | 8:00 AM
With over 150 vendors year-round, the market features local, chemical-free, organic produce from Arizona farmers, farm-fresh eggs, meat, cheese, bread, sweets, coffee, tea, sauces, seasonings, and many other locally made artisan products. With so many delicious options, its no wonder they call the GFM “The Foodie Market”!
EVERY SATURDAY
Heritage District
Farmers Market
92 W Vaughn Ave, Gilbert | 8:00 AM
Arizona Urban Agriculture Foundation is hosting a weekly Saturday Market in the heritage district of downtown Gilbert! Come visit your local farmers, ranchers and producers!
DECEMBER 1ST
Water Tower
Holiday Lighting
Water Tower Plaza | 45 W Page Ave, Gilbert | 6:00 PM
Kick off the holiday season at the Gilbert Water Tower Holiday Lighting, proudly presented by Felix Construction and by APS, for an evening filled with twinkling lights, festive cheer, and fun activities for kids and parents alike.
DECEMBER 1ST - 24TH
A Christmas Carol
Hale Concert Hall | 50 W Page Ave, Gilbert
A Hale Holiday Classic! Our spectacular, heart-warming version of Dickens’ classic tale of redemption is magically brought to life on the Hale Stage. This
Create festive memories, one moment at a time.
Water Tower Holiday Lighting
Dec. 1
Dec. 12 - 22
First and Third Saturdays through March
Saturdays, 8 AM – 11 AM
Water Tower Plaza
Riparian After Dark
Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch
Gilbert Art Walk
Heritage District, Downtown Gilbert
Heritage District Farmers Market
Downtown Gilbert
Shop Local, Celebrate Big!
This holiday season, register for the Shop Gilbert Digital Guide and earn prizes while supporting Gilbert-based businesses. Learn more at DiscoverGilbert.com/ShopGilbert
DiscoverGilbert.com
production is rich with traditional carols, stunning costumes, and memorable characters that are guaranteed to enrich the holiday season for you and your family. Now celebrating its 23rd year in Gilbert!
DECEMBER 3RD
Gilbert City Lifestyle
Happy Hour
Kiln | 2162 East Williams Field Road Suite #111, Gilbert | 4:00 PM
Local Business Owners and Entrepreneurs are invited to join us at Kiln Gilbert for an evening of connection, creativity, and celebration. We’re toasting the release of our December issue. Come meet the families and friends who graciously shared their lives with us.
DECEMBER 4TH-20TH
Hi-Fi Holiday
Hale Concert Hall | 50 W Page Ave, Gilbert Hale Concert Hall is bringing back our Christmas tradition. The elves have sifted through our vinyl record collection and curated a night of our very favorite Christmas hits. Featuring singers from around the country and the North Pole, this concert will leave you feeling uplifted and ready to spread holiday cheer!
DECEMBER 5TH & 6TH
Merry & Bright at Night by
Made with Love Market
Gilbert Civic Center | 75 E Civic Center Dr, Gilbert
A festive, family-friendly event in Gilbert featuring over 100 local small businesses selling handmade, customizable, and unique holiday gifts. Held at the Gilbert Civic Center Plaza, the market includes food trucks, coffee, free family activities, Santa visits, and live music. The market aims to provide a fun, collaborative space for shoppers to support local makers.
