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Every day, women across Greensboro turn to the Women’s Resource Center. They find guidance. They find tools. They find hope.
For over 30 years, WRC has empowered women to build strength, independence, and brighter futures — creating lasting change in our community.
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Embracing the Joy and Generosity of the Season
The holiday season is upon us, ushering in the cherished traditions and gatherings that make this time of year so special. It’s a wonderful opportunity to relive the joy we experienced as children, whether through the glow of festive lights, the scent of holiday treats, or the events that bring us together in the community.
This month’s issue is packed with ideas to help you make the most of the holidays, including delicious recipes, a gift guide to support local businesses, and a Q&A with financial experts to help your year-end donations have more impact. You’ll also learn more about the Greensboro Ballet's Nutcracker performance—one of our city's most beloved holiday traditions.
At its core, the holiday season is about connection, generosity, and finding joy in the little things. Whether you’re exploring holiday markets or volunteering with local organizations, we hope this issue inspires you to embrace the spirit of giving and togetherness.
Wishing you and your loved ones a season filled with warmth, happiness, and treasured moments,
CAITLIN BRAXTON, PUBLISHER @GREENSBOROCITYLIFESTYLE
December 2025
PUBLISHER
Caitlin Braxton | caitlin.braxton@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Kari Smith | kari.smith@citylifestyle.com
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto
LAYOUT DESIGNER Meredith Wilson
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick
city scene
1: Maestro Steven Mercurio conducted the Greensboro Symphony for a special evening with Andrea Bocelli. 2: Women's Resource Center's Men Can Cook fundraiser participants: Chris Wainscott, Aaron Mason, and Brian Harbach, 3: The Gargoyles' inaugural season is welcoming new generations of hockey fans to First Horizon Coliseum. 4: Guests embraced roaring 20's spirit at Speakeasy Night at the Greensboro History Museum. 5: Friends gather to celebrate a birthday with a delicious meal at Epic Chophouse. 6: Greensboro warmly welcomes Bar & Cocoa, a luxury craft chocolate shop. Now that's sweet! 7: The Junior League of Greensboro welcomed more than 1,800 attendees to their 15th Annual Touch-A-Truck.
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Wellness Starts Here
Balance by Brooks Wellness Studio is now open at 1007 NC Hwy 150, Suite B. in Summerfield, featuring infrared sauna, Halo (salt) therapy, red light therapy, cold plunge, and compression therapy. Open by appointment 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Walk-ins welcome by availability 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays. Book online and sign up for e-newsletters to get the latest research and promotions: www.balancebybrooks.com
Your Go-To Spot for All Things LEGO
Bricks & Minifigs® Greensboro is now open at 1570 Highwoods Blvd., Unit B. Their motto is "rebuild, reuse, and reimagine." Visit the store to find new LEGO sets, retired sets, and bulk pieces, or to sell or trade your old collections. Experience the magic of building together!
Your Greensboro Gift Guide
ROUNDED
ARTICLE BY KARI SMITH
1. RHYME AND REASON CHOCOLATE CO.
This small-batch chocolate shop offers everything from exquisite bon bons to distinctive bars, such as the Maracuya Passion Bar (that won Gold in the International Chocolate Awards in 2024)—sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Where to shop: 301-D State Street, Greensboro www.rhymeandreasonchocolate.com/
2. THE TINY GREENHOUSE
Enter this welcoming storefront to find a perfectly curated selection of plants, quirky gifts, stationery, and decor. Whether you’re shopping for a friend, a plant enthusiast, or the hard-to-buy-for person in your life, the friendly and knowledgeable staff can help guide you.
Where to shop: 1331 Beaman Place, Greensboro
3. NEXT CHAPTER BOOKSTORE & GIFT SHOP
Located inside Ben’s Boyz Restaurant, this shop features the talents of creatives from the Triad and beyond. With a vast selection of books, including a notable variety from Black authors, as well as gifts and art, you’re sure to discover something unique.
Where to shop: 2711 Grandview Ave., Greensboro
4. VIGNETTE COFFEE ROASTERS
This local roastery has become the authority on coffee in the Triad. Buy bagged coffee on-site (like their most popular Golden Key Medium Roast House Blend) or sign up for a subscription to have your friend or loved one's favorite flavors delivered directly to their door.
Where to shop: 5715 W Market St., Suite E, Greensboro www.vignettecoffee.com/
5. PRESSIE
Inspired by the timeless art of thoughtful giving, Pressie offers jewelry that transforms ordinary moments into lasting memories. Crafted from 18k gold-bonded stainless steel, each piece comes in luxe packaging, making it effortless to gift.
Where to shop: 4525-B US-220, Summerfield www.shoppressie.com/
6. AMBER TAYLOR CREATIVE
Amber Newton is a Greensboro-based watercolor artist, hand-lettering enthusiast, and digital art creative who designs delightful gifts. From glassware and stationery to hats and onesies, you’ll be sure to check everyone off your shopping list.
Where to shop: www.etsy.com/shop/AmberTaylorCreative
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Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, these holiday drinks are guaranteed to bring a little extra cheer to your cup.
HOLIDAY COCKTAILS & COZY CREATIONS
INGREDIENTS:
FESTIVE CRANBERRY GIN FIZZ
A bright, elegant cocktail with a foamy top and a hint of holiday spirit.
• 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
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.
INSTRUCTIONS: CONTINUED >
HOLIDAY SPICED GINGERBREAD LATTE
A warm, frothy, and festively spiced drink perfect for winter nights.
INSTRUCTIONS:
INGREDIENTS:
For the latte:
• 1 shot of espresso (or 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee)
• 3/4 cup milk
• 2 tbsp gingerbread syrup
• Whipped cream
For the gingerbread syrup:
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 tbsp molasses
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1/8 tsp ground cloves
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Optional toppings:
• Ground cinnamon or nutmeg for dusting
• Marshmallow
• Crushed gingerbread cookie around the rim or on top
Make the gingerbread syrup:
In a small saucepan, combine water, brown sugar, molasses, and spices. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract, and let cool. Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Prepare the drink:
Brew your espresso or strong coffee. Heat and froth your milk. In your glass, add 2 tablespoons of the gingerbread syrup. Pour in the espresso, then the steamed milk, stirring gently to combine. Spoon frothed milk or whipped cream on top. Dust with cinnamon or nutmeg.
Optional: Rim the glass with crushed gingerbread cookie crumbs for extra flair.
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:
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.
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
INSTRUCTIONS:
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.
ARTICLE BY KARI SMITH
GREENSBORO BALLET'S ANNUAL NUTCRACKER PERFORMANCE HAS ENCHANTED GENERATIONS OF AUDIENCES
A BELOVED TRADITION
Every December, crowds descend upon the Carolina Theatre as a new generation arrives to be entertained and enchanted by the Greensboro Ballet’s annual performance of The Nutcracker. As the lights dim and the music begins,
administrator, she was hired in 2022 following a national search.
“I was stunned by the level of community support for the arts in Greensboro— it’s far beyond what I’ve seen in other cities,” Christine says. “The Nutcracker
“THE NUTCRACKER BRINGS NOSTALGIA OF OLD CHRISTMAS. THERE'S SOMETHING MAGICAL ABOUT IT.”
audience members of all ages are reminded of the enduring magic of this show. For some, it’s a new experience; for others, it’s their family’s yearly tradition to usher in the holiday season.
The Greensboro Ballet—known by this name since the early 1990s—was originally founded in the 1960s as the Civic Ballet of Greensboro and became a nonprofit in 1967. Its first production of The Nutcracker debuted in the mid1980s, and the Carolina Theatre has served as its consistent performance home since the late 2000s. Over time, the organization has evolved into the respected arts institution it is today.
Executive Director Jennifer Gentry has devoted more than three decades to the Greensboro Ballet, beginning as a teacher before stepping into leadership in 2019. “We’ve been proud to survive and thrive through decades of change,” says Jennifer. Meanwhile Artistic Director Christine Grider, now in her fourth season, brings a fresh yet reverent energy to the production. A former dancer and seasoned arts
is a beloved holiday classic, but here, it’s the people in Greensboro who make this such a fast tradition.”
Balancing tradition with modern sensibilities is part of the Greensboro Ballet’s creative mission. “There are certain elements you can’t tamper with,” Christine explains, “but I also look for ways to keep the production culturally relevant.” From introducing hip-hop dancer Dom Sebastian Alexis in the role of Uncle Drosselmeyer to reimagining choreography as the students’ technical skills evolve, she continues to find new ways to keep the performance dynamic and inclusive.
The Greensboro Ballet’s Nutcracker includes 60 performers, from young students to professionals. This includes children as young as eight in addition to seasoned guest dancers—like former New York City Ballet soloist Megan LeCrone. Many adults, including local parents and community members, participate for the joy of being part of something special.
“I think The Nutcracker brings nostalgia of old Christmas and family and getting together. There’s something magical about it,” says Jennifer. Carrying that magic beyond the stage, each year the Ballet also hosts “Tea with Clara,” a cherished fundraising and interactive event that invites young fans to learn a short dance from the production and meet the characters. It’s a wonderful way to bring the audience into the joy and enchantment.
Even as the company grows, preservation remains a focus. Christine has launched a multi-year costume refurbishment project, beginning with replacing the iconic snowflake costumes. The goal is to ensure that the performance attire can continue to enchant audiences for many more seasons.
Both leaders agree: while the sets, costumes, and dancers may evolve, the heart of The Nutcracker—and of Greensboro Ballet itself—remains constant. It’s about connection, tradition, and the shared joy that comes when art and community dance together in perfect harmony.
The Greensboro Ballet’s production of The Nutcracker will run Dec. 11-14 at the Carolina Theatre of Greensboro. Learn more and purchase tickets: https://carolinatheatre.com/event/ greensboro-ballet-the-nutcracker/
Q&A: YEAR-END Charitable GIVING
Financial experts Scott and Peter Graham of Alpha Omega Financial share insights for charitable giving as the year draws to a close.
WHAT TYPES OF DONATIONS QUALIFY FOR TAX DEDUCTIONS?
Generally, monetary donations to a qualified charity, such as a 501(c)(3) public organization, may be tax deductible. Donations of clothing, furniture, or household items to qualified charities may also be deductible.
HOW CAN I MAKE SURE MY DONATIONS ARE ACTUALLY MAKING AN IMPACT?
You can verify a charitable organization’s annual report or its IRS Form 990, which can be found on the charity’s website or through thirdparty websites.
HOW CAN I PLAN NOW TO MAKE NEXT YEAR’S CHARITABLE GIVING MORE INTENTIONAL?
The end of the calendar year is a great time to review your annual household budget for the upcoming year. You can create intention behind charitable giving by determining your budget and by identifying organizations you'd most like to support. Creating this plan in advance allows individuals and families to more efficiently allocate funds for donation throughout the year.
DEADLINE:
December 31, 2025 is the last day to make a charitable donation that can be claimed on your 2025 tax return.
DEDUCTIONS:
The majority of Americans take the standard deduction when filing their taxes, which for tax year 2025 is $30,000 for a married couple filing jointly and $15,000 for single or married individuals filing separately.
ARTICLE BY KARI SMITH
What to know about deductions, deadlines, and intentional year-end giving
ARTICLE
BY KARI SMITH
GUIDING WITH Heart
HOW ONE WOMAN’S DEVOTION TO SCOUTING CONTINUES TO SHAPE LIVES ACROSS GENERATIONS
Ahead of her son Gabriel’s Eagle Scout board of review, Jennifer Aguiar sat sewing the last of his 63 merit badges onto his sash— so many that they now spill down the back. For Jennifer, the moment marked more than a proud milestone as a mother; it was the continuation of an unexpected journey of leadership, giving, and service through Scouting.
Jennifer’s path began in 2003 when her young son came home excitedly waving a Cub Scout flyer. After one lively meeting filled with talk of camping and fishing, Jennifer and her husband agreed to give it a try. Three weeks later, the den leader quit, and the Cubmaster asked if Jennifer would consider stepping in. “He slid a handbook across the table and said, ‘Think about it,’” she laughs. “I’ve been a leader ever since.”
"I just hope that somewhere along the line, I’ve made a difference in somebody’s life."
Over the years, her involvement deepened into a mission. Jennifer joined a committee to help launch a troop for Scouts with special needs in Davie County. Drawing on her background in psychology and social work—and her own experience as a mother of two special-needs children—she built an environment of patience, compassion, and understanding. “Put me in a room full of kids and I’ll either have them laughing or crying,” she says with a smile. “The training I’ve received inside and outside of Scouting has helped me.” Her commitment earned her the Torch of Gold award, presented to just one recipient per council each year for extraordinary service to special needs Scouts.
In 2019, when girls were officially welcomed into Scouting America, Jennifer helped lead Davie County’s first and only female troop. “All my boys’ sisters were already showing up and participating,” she recalls. “They wanted their own troop—so I became their Scoutmaster too.”
Jennifer’s legacy has become a family affair. Her son Gabriel—whose Eagle project raised funds for a low-cost pet care nonprofit—is now an assistant Scoutmaster for the girls’ troop. Her grandsons, both Cub Scouts, are giving her the joy of starting over again as a Den Leader. Even her daughter, an Army veteran and future business owner, credits her mom for showing what strong, independent leadership looks like. “I’m not your typical woman,” Jennifer says. “But that’s what I want my girls to see—that they can do anything.”
Asked what keeps her going after all these years, Jennifer’s answer is simple. “The joy of watching these kids succeed—that’s what keeps me showing up.” Her wish for every Scout she’s led is equally clear: that they grow into kind, capable, and confident adults who know the value of service.
“I just hope that somewhere along the line,” she says, “I’ve made a difference in somebody’s life.”
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that’s a WRAP
DIY Gift Wrapping That Stands Out During
The Season
ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON
‘Tis the season to get crafty, clever or characterized! Wellwrapped 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-It-Yourself 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,
the SEASON
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. 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).
realty report
events
DECEMBER 3RD
Merry Mahjong
Greensboro Country Club | 6:00 PM
Merry Mahjong is a fundraiser that blends the fun game of Mahjong with the mission of curing type 1 diabetes. Enjoy prizes, light bites, and adult beverages while playing this beloved game. Sponsorships are available at a variety of levels. Details/sponsorships: www.breakthrought1d.org/piedmonttriadnc/ or email Danielle Hayes at DHayes@BT1D.org.
DECEMBER 5TH
Festival of Lights
Center City Park | 5:30 PM
The Festival of Lights has been a holiday tradition for almost 40 years. Grab your friends and family and head downtown to enjoy a community sing-along, the lighting of the community tree, Santa, carolers, and acoustic performances along Elm Street. Many downtown merchants stay open late to allow you to do some shopping, too!
DECEMBER 10TH
Adult Field Trip: Gyotaku
Bitters Social House | 6:00 PM
On the second Wednesday each month, Bitters Social House offers a new fun and unique "adult field trip" option. This month, attendees will explore Gyotaku, the Japanese art of fish printing: tropical fish edition. Tickets are $30 and include instruction and a beverage at their 307 State Street location. Learn more: https://bitterssocial.com/.
DECEMBER 11TH - 14TH
Greensboro Ballet Presents The Nutcracker
The Carolina Theatre
Don't miss this cherished holiday tradition as the Greensboro Ballet performs The Nutcracker. We welcome the return of the Nutcracker Orchestra, performing Tchaikovsky’s iconic score live for every performance. Purchase tickets through the Carolina Theatre Box Office: 336-333-2605 / www.carolinatheatre.com.
DECEMBER 12TH - 27TH
Gingerbread House Competition
Grandover Resort & Spa
What's more festive than gingerbread? Get into the holiday spirit by viewing (or competing in!) the Grandover's annual gingerbread house competition to benefit the Salvation Army of Greensboro. The holiday masterpieces will be on display in the Grandover lobby December 12-27. More info: https://grandoverresort.com/special-resort-event/
DECEMBER 13TH
Christmas Cookie Sale
Christ Lutheran Church | 9:00 AM
The cookie sale is back! It will be held at the newly renovated fellowship hall (3600 Lawndale Drive) from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. or until sold out. Come let our elves do the baking for you! Cookies will sell for $0.60 per ounce. Free coffee and Christmas music will be provided. Contact the church office with any questions: 336-288-4482.
