Greenwich, CT November 2025

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Thankful for Connection

November always invites us to slow down and reflect on the people, places, and moments that make life meaningful. As the air turns crisp and the holiday season approaches, we’re reminded that gratitude is more than a fleeting feeling. It’s a practice that grounds us and connects us to one another.

This issue is full of stories that embody that spirit. We highlight the power of community through a beautiful oceanside luncheon that brought trailblazing women and female-founded brands together. We’re also grateful to have Anna Barnes, who shares practical ways to practice gratitude amidst the inevitable chaos of the holidays, a gentle reminder we could all use this time of year.

Our City Scene pages are brimming with joy from our fabulous Local Love Party, where so many came together to celebrate and support one another. For your own Thanksgiving table, Alyssa Levy brings a new seasonal addition that will inspire and delight. And, as always, we are proud to share details of our annual Giving Campaign, which reaches so many in need and reminds us how impactful generosity can be.

In a season of abundance, my hope is that this issue inspires you to savor the simple joys, embrace gratitude daily, and continue to nurture the incredible community we are lucky to call home.

With gratitude,

November 2025

PUBLISHER

Laura Sabia | laura.sabia@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Emma Parente | emma.parente@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Adam Vohra | adam.vohra@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Anna Barnes, Alyssa Lavy, Megan Schinella

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Brook Road Photography

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman

LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle

All The More Reason to Smile.

Greenwich Braces is a state of the art orthodontic office for both children and adults founded in 1998. It is our mission to treat each patient as our family member, while providing the highest quality of orthodontic care in a friendly and welcoming environment. Our doctors and orthodontic team go to extreme lengths to make our patients feel comfortable.

Dr. Tiffany Christensen

Dr. Rosemary Ryan

Dr. Amanda Iorio

inside the issue

Oceanside Connections That Flourish

Gabriella
Teich

city scene

1: Nina B. Clarke, Megan Schinella 2: Michelle Leboeuf, Shera Stein, Nicole Caroline, Sarah Yardis, Christina Tardibuono 3: Anna Barnes 4: Dorothy Cascerceri Simone, Penny Goffman 5: Allie Vetsch, Christine Han-Rutledge, Cami Pereira 6: Sarah Bamford, Fred Camillo, Sue Moretti Bodson 7: Laura Sabia, Dana Cifone, Kimberly Thomas Photography by Brook Road Photography
8: Chris Desir, Marcel Robert 9: Chelsea Woody, Brittni Brown, Tania Elliot, Stacey Steinmetz 10: Rebekah Jacobs, Matthew L. Kocyba 11: Deanna First, Zac Mathias 12: Sylvie Fortin, Amy Glover, Racquet Benoit 13: Dana Cifone, Penny Goffman, Kira Jones 14: Katie Tuzmen
Photography
15: Tiffany Christensen, Amanda Iorio 16: Mia Schipani, Melissa Reiph, Ahisa Obregon, Lia Vitale, Marria Pooya, Babak Pooya 17: Nora Gyarmathy, Alina Rendina, Christina Weiss 18: Sarah Dolder, Alexandra Labiak 19: Susy Ademoski, Brania Aquino 20: Anna Gromyko, Emerson Litvak 21: Tim & Alicia Tiberio

Glow all the way

Holiday treatment savings have

With 20 years of experience, Greenwich Med Spa is ranked as a top 50 Med Spa in the country. Expect award-winning clinicians, results-driven treatments, advanced technology, and 5-star patient care. And now, experience it all at an amazing price with Merry Mondays—our biggest offers of the year. Unwrap a new sale offer every Monday in November.

Limited time only.

Injectables • Wrinkle Reduction • Skin Firming Treatments Body Sculpting • Laser Hair Removal • Skin Rejuvenation High-Tech Facials • Medical Weight Loss Hormone Replacement Therapy

Scan to Book
22: Shanaya Khubchandani, Marie Rocha 23: Marcel Robert, Chris Desir, Adam Vohra 24: Laura Sabia, Marisa MacLean 25: Emily Russo, Madison Bradley 26: Isabelle Wood, Auste Kuncas 27: Geoff Farley, Matthew Scudder 28: Bea Jakaj, Amber Nicole, Diem D.
Photography by Brook Road Photography

Periodontist & Implant Surgeon

SPECIALIZING IN EXCELLENT CARE

Dr. Traynor Practices the Most Advanced Techniques in Periodontics & Implant Placement Including:

• Laser Therapy to Treat Gum Infections and Regrow Bone (LANAP)

• Laser Therapy to Save Failing Implants

• Cosmetic Treatments to Improve the Look of Your Smile

• State of the Art Technology for Custom Implant Placement

• Same Day Implant Placement for Broken Teeth

• Palate-Free Treatment for Recession and Root Coverage

business monthly

A ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES

Scott Norris Returns to Tony's at the J House

Tony’s at the J House has appointed Scott Norris as the restaurant’s new General Manager and Sommelier. Norris, a familiar face to many of Tony's patrons, is returning to the J House with more than a decade of experience in the hospitality industry, including a previous tenure as a sommelier at Tony’s. With his extensive expertise in management, Norris will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of the restaurant’s operations.

P2P Brings Back Rising Together Benefit After Record-Breaking First Year

Person to Person (P2P) proudly announces the return of its signature spring event, the Rising Together Benefit, set for Saturday, March 28, 2026, at The Hyatt Regency Greenwich. Following the success of the inaugural event, which raised a record-breaking $760,000, Rising Together has quickly become one of Fairfield County’s most powerful nights of community and collective impact. The program reflects the mission and momentum of P2P’s work across Fairfield County.

Flying Forward: How Lindsey Savko is Redefining Service and Leadership

Lindsey Savko, RN, Miss Greenwich 2025, is a standout figure in the community — a skilled surgical orthopedic nurse at Greenwich Hospital and founder of LinRose Worldwide LLC. She also works as a contract corporate flight attendant, pursuing her private pilot license. Advancing her studies as a Family Nurse Practitioner, Lindsey blends healthcare and aviation through volunteer work with Corporate Angel Network, a nonprofit providing free flights for cancer patients and filling seats with hope.

2025 Impact Golf Outing Raises $56,000 for Blythedale

Children's Hospital

Blythedale Children’s Hospital extends heartfelt thanks to everyone who supported their 2025 Impact Golf Outing on June 26th. The generosity of businesses and individuals helped raise over $56,000 to benefit vital programs like the Day Hospital. Special thanks go to Y Not You Media for bringing the community together and introducing Blythedale to new friends. Each day the hospital transforms the lives of children, from fragile newborns to thriving teens.

Now Open in Old Greenwich: Green & Tonic

Green & Tonic, the award-winning café that makes clean eating simple and delicious, opened its Old Greenwich location in September. In celebration, Green & Tonic OG offered $1 hot or iced drinks all day on opening day as well as free totes for the first 50 customers. They also launched a month-long smoothie creation contest in which customers were invited to stop into the OG store and submit their own custom smoothie idea!

Lumecca IPL
Diolaze Laser Hair Removal
Ultra Resurfacing Laser
Genius RF Microneedling

the difference maker for you.

Local Experiences

THE BEST PLACES AND THINGS TO DO IN OUR AREA.

Being thankful for what we have, and giving back to those in need is important all-year round, and particularly during the holidays. We love our community and want to support our people and organizations in as many ways as we can, so join us in paying it forward with these local opportunities.

Junior League of Greenwich |  empowering women by helping them develop civic leadership skills, voluntarism, and enhancing the community. Volunteers needed for Project Impact, Positively Me!, and various New Member projects.

Darien Community Association  |  non profit community organization engage in their programs or visit their thrift shop. Volunteers needed for sorting, pricing, display, serving customers

United Way | aims to mobilize the caring power of community to improve lives and create opportunities for all. Supporting via donations or getting involved in their impact projects.

Shoulder Check | is a commitment to checking in on the daily, because we might not always know who needs a hand, but we all have a hand to give. Let them you’ve got their back. Start a club, introduce it to your team, hold an event.

Habitat for Humanity | partners with people in our local community to help them build a brand new and affordable place to call home. Donate usable furniture, appliances, and help with pickup.

PRACTICING GRATITUDE

In The Month of November

Simple Practices To Cultivate A Grateful Mindset

Anna Barnes

Anna is a luxury PR pro, journalist, and the voice behind Bliss & Bellinis, where she shares her passion for travel, unique experiences, and curating a life filled with style and adventure. When she’s not crafting stories for brands or planning her next getaway, she’s usually on a plane and always ready for a Bellini.

As autumn settles in, November arrives with a quiet reminder: to slow down, look around, and give thanks. The air turns crisper, the leaves finish their colorful transformation, and the pace of life seems to gently nudge us toward reflection. With the holiday season fast approaching, November provides a natural pause—a moment to notice the abundance we often overlook.

Gratitude, after all, is more than a seasonal sentiment. It’s a mindset that has the power to shift perspective and bring more joy to the everyday. November encourages us to refocus, to see not just what we strive for, but all that we already have. From the comfort of a warm home to the support of friends and family, or simply the beauty of a golden autumn afternoon, this month offers endless opportunities to be present and appreciative.

Practicing gratitude is more than a feel-good habit—it’s scientifically linked to better health and longevity. Studies show that regular gratitude can improve sleep quality, lower blood pressure, boost energy levels, and reduce stress. Together, these benefits promote overall well-being and may even help us live longer, healthier lives.

Gratitude can also be shared and strengthened through connection. Simple practices—like swapping daily moments of appreciation with a friend, sending a heartfelt note, or expressing thanks out loud—remind us that gratitude is not only personal but also relational. By including others in our practice, we cultivate deeper bonds, spread positivity, and create a ripple effect that enriches both our lives and the community around us.

Thankfulness doesn’t require grand gestures—it can flourish in simple acts. A note of appreciation, a shared meal, or even a mindful moment to acknowledge the good in our day can be transformative. In doing so, we carry the warmth of gratitude far beyond November, turning it into a daily practice that enriches our lives year-round.

This November, may we not only count our blessings, but also embody them—living with greater awareness, kindness, and a renewed sense of gratitude for the season we’re in. Besides, practicing gratitude throughout the month will inevitably pay off when asked, “What are you thankful for this year?” around the Thanksgiving table.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteering is a powerful way to express gratitude as it turns appreciation into action. By giving time, skills, or support to others, we acknowledge our own blessings, foster connection, and make a positive impact, showing thankfulness through meaningful contribution and generosity. There are a myriad of wonderful causes in Fairfield County to dedicate your time; another way to deepen your ties in our community.

TAKE A GRATITUDE WALK

A gratitude walk combines movement with mindfulness, making it a powerful practice. By noticing nature, reflecting on blessings, and appreciating the present moment, it shifts focus away from stress. And we all know taking a walk is a great way to get our bodies and minds moving. This simple habit boosts mood, deepens gratitude, and strengthens both mental and physical well-being. Plus a fall walk in Fairfield County with the deep, rich tones of the changing leaves is also a mood booster.

KEEP A GRATITUDE JOURNAL

Keeping a gratitude journal helps shift focus from what’s lacking to what’s abundant in life. By regularly recording moments of appreciation, it boosts mood, reduces stress, and cultivates mindfulness, making it easier to notice everyday joys and strengthen overall happiness and well-being. Some days may be easier than others but some day it’s okay to acknowledge your appreciation for a hot cup of coffee.

SAY ‘THANK YOU’ MORE OFTEN

Needless to say, saying “thank you” more often is a simple yet powerful way to practice gratitude. It acknowledges kindness, strengthens relationships, and fosters positivity. Regularly expressing appreciation not only uplifts others but also deepens your own sense of thankfulness. You just might inspire someone else’s gratitude journey!

WRITE A POSITIVE REVIEW FOR A LOCAL BUSINESS

Have you been meaning to write a kind review about that new place you loved? If it’s been on your to-do list, make it a priority. Writing a positive review for a local business is a simple way to practice gratitude. It acknowledges the hard work behind the service, supports the community, and spreads positivity—helping both the business thrive and you feel more connected to the place we call home.

HAVE A GRATITUDE “BUDDY”

Pair up with a friend this month! Having a gratitude buddy is a great way to create connection while reinforcing thankfulness. By sharing what you appreciate with a friend or partner, you gain fresh perspective, deepen relationships, and stay accountable—making gratitude a consistent, shared, and uplifting part of everyday life.

Photo by Alex Wild

CRISPY CRANBERRY CAULIFLOWER

This Crispy Cranberry Cauliflower dish highlights the season’s fresh produce with cozy flavors, such as maple, cranberries and walnuts. It is warm, nutty and slightly sweet – and perfect for your

Thanksgiving table or as a simple weeknight side dish that your whole family will devour. It’s also a versatile dish that can accommodate many dietary restrictions, as it is gluten free and dairy free – and

PHOTOGRAPHY

ARTICLE AND
BY ALYSSA LAVY, MS, RD, CDN
Warm, Crispy, Maple Roasted Cauliflower With Walnuts and Cranberries

the walnuts can easily be swapped for seeds, such as pumpkin seeds, to accommodate a tree nut allergy while keeping in theme with the season and maintaining a similar texture and taste. While this dish was created as a side dish to serve

during the upcoming holiday season (or to enjoy throughout the cold winter months), you may find yourself piling a plate high with this warm, maple flavored cauliflower goodness because it’s so delicious!

CRISPY CRANBERRY CAULIFLOWER

SERVES

4 - 6 people

Ingredients:

• 1 large head cauliflower (approximately 2 lbs.)

• ¼ C avocado oil  or other cooking oil

• ¼ tsp salt

• ¼ tsp ground black pepper

• ¼ tsp garlic powder

• ¼ tsp onion powder

• ½ tsp smoked paprika

• 1 ½ tsp dried parsley flakes

• 3 ½ Tbsp pure maple syrup

• ¾ C walnuts, unsalted (can chop coarsely or use walnut halves and pieces)

• ½ C dried cranberries, unsweetened

• 2 tsp fresh lemon juice (can give a gentle squeeze to half a lemon)

• Nonstick cooking oil spray

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit.

2. Line a baking sheet (9 x 13 inches or similar works well) with parchment paper. Spray with nonstick cooking oil spray and set aside.

3. Chop cauliflower into medium sized florets and place in strainer. Rinse cauliflower and use a paper towel to thoroughly dry cauliflower. It is important that the cauliflower is as dry as possible so it gets crispy in the oven – if the cauliflower is wet it will be mushy and fail to crisp.

4. Transfer cauliflower florets to parchment paper lined baking sheet. Drizzle oil over cauliflower and evenly distribute spices (salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, parsley flakes). Drizzle lemon juice over cauliflower. Use a large spoon to gently mix the cauliflower on the baking sheet so the oil, spices and lemon juice evenly coat the cauliflower.

5. Bake cauliflower in oven for 25-30 minutes – the cauliflower should be cooked but not quite crispy and browned yet. Remove from oven, add walnuts and drizzle maple syrup so it is evenly distributed over the cauliflower.

6. Return cauliflower to oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until cauliflower is crispy and browned. Remove cauliflower from oven, add dried cranberries and use a large spoon or spatula to gently mix the cauliflower, walnuts and cranberries. Transfer to a medium sized serving bowl and serve immediately. Enjoy!

Note: Individual oven times may vary, so keep an eye on your cauliflower to make sure that it does not burn. This Crispy Cranberry Cauliflower is best served immediately, when crispy and warm out of the oven. However, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoyed once warmed in the oven or toaster oven to preserve the texture of the cauliflower and walnuts. Please enjoy leftovers within 3 days.

Alyssa Lavy, MS, RD, CDN, CPT is a registered dietitian, personal trainer and mom of 2. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science from The George Washington University and her Master of Science in Nutrition and Exercise Physiology from Teachers College Columbia University, where she also completed her dietetic internship. She has been an ACSM certified personal trainer for over a decade. Alyssa is the owner of Alyssa Lavy Nutrition & Wellness, a wellness brand offering nutrition communications, program development and consulting services for individuals and corporations.

Website: alyssalavy.com Instagram: @alyssalavyrd

Modern Design Meets Natural Serenity

12 Stallion Trail

This architectural gem showcases soaring ceilings, dramatic stonework, and oversized windows that frame lush views. The newly renovated gourmet kitchen anchors an open floor plan, seamlessly connecting elegant living and entertaining spaces.

With four en suite bedrooms, a versatile lower level with gym and sauna, and expansive decks leading to a parklike backyard, this home blends sophistication with everyday comfort.

Yashmin Lloyds Lic. Real Estate Salesperson M: 917.597.0178 | O: 203.343.0141 Compass Connecticut. LLC ylloyds@compass.com yashminlloydsrealestate.com

Yashmin Lloyds is a real estate licensee affiliated with Compass Connecticut, LLC, a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Photos may be virtually staged or digitally enhanced and may not reflect actual property conditions. CTBOR@ Compass.com

MODERN SEASONAL AMERICAN
DANA CIFONE
DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS & EVENTS

OCEANSIDE CONNECTIONS THAT FLOURISH

A luncheon uniting trailblazing women, female-founded brands, and the spirit of giving back

On a sunlit afternoon by the sound, Penny Goffman creates an intimate oceanside luncheon brought together a remarkable group of women whose lives and businesses are reshaping the local community. Hosted in partnership with wellness brand Sakara Life, the gathering celebrated connection, creativity, and purpose with three clear goals: to unite trailblazing women, to spotlight a female-founded brand, and to give back to Neighbor to Neighbor Greenwich.

The setting was effortlessly elegant. Guests were welcomed with cocktails by Avaline before exploring pop-ups curated by Olivia Grace, Epic Light Beauty, and LoveShackFancy Greenwich. Each activation reflected the spirit of female entrepreneurship and created touch points for conversation and collaboration. The highlight of the afternoon was an engaging discussion with Sakara’s Chief Marketing Officer, Tierney Wilson, moderated by the host of All Over Again podcast, Nathalie Carpenter, who generously opened her home for the occasion. Their conversation offered an authentic look at wellness, branding, and leadership, inspiring everyone present.

Atmosphere played as much a role as conversation. Rooney Tents and Events designed airy, beach-inspired tablescapes with feminine details and plant-based accents that echoed the essence of Sakara and the vibrancy of the women gathered. The day’s beauty and spirit were captured through the lenses of Bri. Co.Creates and Brook Road Photography, preserving the moments of laughter, connection, and inspiration that unfolded.

For the event’s creator, Penny, this luncheon represents the culmination of over a decade of work dedicated to connecting ambitious women across the country through curated experiences. By aligning purpose-driven brands with communities of female leaders, philanthropists, and entrepreneurs, she has built a model that is as impactful as it is authentic.

At its heart, this event underscored a simple truth: genuine relationships are the foundation of growth. “Being part of a brand’s journey impacting women is a responsibility I cherish deeply,” she shares. “The earlier businesses embrace authentic connection, the sooner they’ll discover the incredible opportunities that lie ahead.”

It was a magical day one that not only celebrated female entrepreneurship but also revealed the transformative power of community when women come together with shared vision and purpose.

CONTINUED >

Event Partners

• Wellness & Food: Sakara Life

• Drinks: Avaline

• Pop-Ups: Olivia Grace, Epic Light Beauty, LoveShackFancy Greenwich

• Conversation: Tierney Wilson (CMO, Sakara), Nathalie Carpenter, All Over Again Podcast

• Design: Rooney Tents and Events

• Photography: Bri.Co.Creates, Brook Road Photography

• Community Partner: Neighbor to Neighbor Greenwich

Casa Akai - Punta Mita, Mexico

PARADISE PERFECTED

A FLORIDA KEYS ESCAPE FOR FAMILIES, FOODIES, AND SUN SEEKERS

When the air turns crisp in the Northeast, the Florida Keys beckon with sunshine, turquoise waters, and an unmistakable island charm. For families and couples alike, Isla Bella Beach Resort is redefining the luxury Keys experience. Nestled at the foot of the iconic Seven Mile Bridge, this 24-acre haven blends modern design, endless activities, and a true sense of relaxation making it one of the most exciting destinations to escape to this season.

A FIRST IMPRESSION TO REMEMBER

Arriving at Isla Bella feels like entering a private sanctuary. A lush, winding drive off the Overseas Highway ushers you through native gardens and tropical greenery before opening into pristine white architecture, sandy beaches, and your first breathtaking view of the cerulean sea. Every detail is designed to inspire awe, from the mile-long waterfront to the sweeping outdoor terraces in every guestroom.

DINING GOES ALL-INCLUSIVE

Perhaps the most buzzworthy addition this year is the resort’s All-Inclusive Dining Packages, a first for the Florida Keys. Guests can choose between:

• All-Inclusive Dining Package: breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, soft drinks, and coffee at select outlets.

• All-Inclusive Dining + Bar Package: everything above, plus unlimited beer, wine by the glass, and mixed drinks for those 21+.

The program, which must be booked for the full stay, has been extremely well received and gives families peace of mind and foodies the freedom to indulge without counting receipts.

The culinary scene itself is a highlight. Whether it’s a Polynesian-inspired feast with Keys seafood, casual bites poolside, or a quick stop at the Marketplace café, every craving is covered. Guests can also sip cocktails under swaying palms at the beach bar, ensuring dining feels like an experience, not just a necessity.

POOLS, BEACHES, AND ENDLESS ACTIVITIES

Five oceanfront pools—including one stretching 4,500 square feet—give guests plenty of options for lounging or play. The private sandy beach adds a postcard-perfect backdrop for days spent swimming, sandcastle building, or simply soaking up the sun.

“From pools to pet-friendly perks, Isla Bella makes every stay unforgettable for families and friends.”

Adventure seekers can take to the water from the marina, which offers everything from fishing charters and harbor cruises to kayaking, snorkeling, and scuba diving trips. On land, guests can unwind with bocce ball, challenge friends to giant chess, or explore the dunes and observation piers that frame the property.

For those who crave pampering, the 4,000-square-foot spa delivers tranquility with five treatment rooms, steam amenities, and an indulgent menu of therapies. Meanwhile, the stateof-the-art fitness center ensures routines don’t skip a beat.

A SPACE FOR EVERY OCCASION

While Isla Bella is a family favorite, it also shines as a destination for events and celebrations. The resort features a 4,000-square-foot conference center for groups of up to 300, as well as stunning outdoor venues ideal for weddings framed by the ocean. Whether you’re hosting a corporate retreat or saying “I do,” the combination of natural beauty and luxury amenities is unmatched.

A LOCATION THAT DEFINES THE KEYS

Positioned perfectly in Marathon, the resort is just a two-hour drive from Miami and one hour from Key West International Airport. Its central location makes it easy to explore local treasures such as Sombrero Beach, spectacular snorkeling reefs, and the Seven Mile Bridge itself—one of the most photographed landmarks in Florida. Guests can immerse themselves in world-class fishing, sailing, and diving, or simply let the resort’s beauty become the destination in itself.

THE LITTLE THINGS THAT COUNT

What truly sets Isla Bella apart is its attention to detail. From tropical gardens and manatee sightings to family-friendly programs like the Manatee Bay Marketplace (where guests can grab snorkel gear, kayaks, or bikes), every corner of the property reflects a balance of relaxation and discovery. Children are entertained, adults are indulged, and together families create memories that last long after the tan fades.

A NEW ERA IN THE KEYS

Isla Bella isn’t just another beach resort, it’s a reimagining of the Florida Keys experience. By blending upscale amenities, warm hospitality, and activities for every age, the resort has become the crown jewel of Marathon. As the temperatures drop back home, there’s never been a better time to pack your bags, head south, and discover why Isla Bella is paradise perfected.

H O P E

Begins with YOU A SEASON TO SEE THE UNSEEN

The holidays have a way of calling us back to what matters most—faith, family, compassion, and the quiet but powerful act of giving. As lights go up and calendars fill, there are still many who sit in silence, carrying burdens too heavy to bear alone. But what if this season, you could be the spark that changes everything for someone else?

The founders of City Lifestyle, through their private foundation, are once again launching its annual Christmas Giving Campaign—a heartfelt effort to seek out and support individuals and families who have quietly fallen through the cracks. The mission is simple: to bring light, dignity, and hope to those who need it most.

Since its beginning just four years ago, this initiative has grown from a humble idea into a life-changing movement. Last Christmas alone, more than 200 families across the country received unexpected support—financial relief, but also something even more powerful.

“We don’t just send checks,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “We send a message: You are seen. You are loved. And you are not forgotten.”

Together with City Lifestyle President Matthew Perry, Steven has helped shape this into a tradition that goes far beyond charity. “This is about community,” Matthew adds. “We believe we’ve been blessed, so now we get to be a blessing.”

Every story begins with a nomination. Often, it’s a neighbor, coworker, friend, or teacher—someone who’s been quietly carrying too much for too long. One past recipient, after receiving unexpected support during a time of deep personal struggle, wrote:

SCAN TO NOMINATE

“We send a message: You are seen. You are loved. And you are not forgotten.”

“Beyond the very practical solution of receiving funds to fix my car, this thing you guys worked together to do is bigger than that. I carry the Christmas card you sent in my purse. When things get really hard, I pull it out and remember what it felt like to be seen. That card represents hope— that change for the better is possible. I’m not sure how many people get to carry hope around in their purse. But I do.”

Another wrote in after her husband was diagnosed with aggressive brain cancer and unable to work:

“This support has blessed our family not only financially, but emotionally and spiritually as we trust God to meet our needs throughout this difficult time. Thank you to our anonymous friend and to your foundation. What a joy and gift to be part of God’s family!”

Each year brings countless stories like these—real lives touched by simple acts of kindness. Some use the funds to pay overdue bills, others to afford groceries, medication, or repairs. But no matter the circumstance, the impact is the same: hope is restored.

This season, you have the opportunity to be part of that. The campaign is now open to nominations—completely confidential and prayerfully considered. Whether it’s someone battling illness, facing unemployment, or just in need of a helping hand, you can bring them a moment of grace that will ripple far beyond Christmas morning.

“Knowing my mom was chosen filled my heart with indescribable joy,” said another past recipient. “Your generosity doesn’t just brighten her life; it inspires hope and faith in all of us. It enables her to stay in her home and get back on her feet.”

Nominations are open from November 1st to December 5th, 2025. To submit someone you know, simply scan the QR code or visit @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the nomination form in the bio.

This holiday season, let’s give more than gifts. Let’s give each other the gift of being seen. Because sometimes, the smallest gesture becomes someone’s greatest miracle.

To nominate someone in need, visit: KingdomBuildingFoundation.org or scan the QR code.

unique GIFTING

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.

NOVEMBER 15TH - 16TH

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

Greenwich Symphony Orchestra

10 Hillside Rd, Greenwich CT | 7:00 PM

Experience this memorable concert featuring violinist Chee-Yun performing Astor Piazzolla’s Las Cuatro Estaciones Porteñas (“The Four Seasons in Buenos Aires”) conducted by Maestro Stuart Malina. Also on the program are Rainbow Body by Christopher Theofanides and Rachmaninoff’s Symphony No. 3 in A Minor.

NOVEMBER 15TH

Wish Night

Greenwich Country Club | 6:00 PM

Celebrate wishes that are out of this world! Wish Night is Make-A-Wish® Connecticut's most important night of the year and helps to grant more than 80 wishes with its proceeds each year. The evening features fine dining, dancing, auctions, powerful storytelling, a live wish reveal, and more. It's a night you don't want to miss!

NOVEMBER 15TH

The Art Spy

Greenwich Historical Society | 2:00 PM

To commemorate and celebrate Veterans Day, the Greenwich Historical Society invites you to an exclusive talk with Michelle Young for her book,The Art Spy: The Extraordinary Untold tale of WWII Resistance Hero Rose Valland. Young brings to life the story of Rose Valland, a French Allied spy who prevented the destruction of the Jeu de Paume Museum in 1940s Paris.

NOVEMBER 28TH - DECEMBER 24TH

17th Annual Greenwich Reindeer Festival

Sam Bridge Nursery & Greenhouses | 12:00 PM

Santa and his LIVE Reindeer return to Greenwich! This important community event provides holiday joy and happiness for thousands of families from throughout the region and helps to support the important mission of  Kids in Crisis for the 17th year. Visitors can have their photo taken with Santa, meet the reindeer and also enjoy the beautiful Santa’s Workshop.

NOVEMBER 29TH

15th Annual Turkey Trot

100 Arch Street | 9:30 AM

Participate in the Greenwich Alliance for Education's largest fundraising event! This event will feature a 5-K race and a 1-mile fun run/ walk through Bruce Park, starting and ending at the Arch Street Teen Center. Save the date, lace up your sneakers and get ready to race!

NOVEMBER 29TH

Greenwich Farmer's Market

Arch Street and Horseneck Lane Greenwich, CT | 9:30 AM

Don't miss out on the Greenwich Farmer's Market for its final month of the year! Enjoy their three new vendors: Jackie’s Empanadas on the Go for freshly made empanadas,  Kalenauskas Farm, LLC for a a vast variety of meat from farm grown animals, and  Oceans 180 for a vast variety of fresh seafood from Connecticut shores.

Grateful to Guide You Home.

This season of gratitude, we’re thankful for the trust our clients place in us. With years of experience, deep Greenwich roots, and Compass’s industryleading tools, we’re here to make every step of your real estate journey seamless and successful. Whether you’re buying, selling, or simply exploring your options, we’d love to guide you home.

Ready to get started?

Get in touch today, scan the code to visit jennyallenhomes.com!

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Greenwich, CT November 2025 by City Lifestyle - Issuu