Huntsville, AL December 2025

Emmett BlevinsJewelers

Personally Taking Care of Your Personal Style

Here at Oxford Street, we have one goal. Rather than focusing on deals, we want to deal you in. Build your sense of style with us.

IN-HOUSE TAILORING // CUSTOM MADE SUITS WEDDING BUNDLES // MENSWEAR BUNDLES PROM BUNDLES // CONSULTATIONS

Johnston and Murphey // Hart Shafner

Marx // Ted Baker // English Laundry Duck Head // Mizzen + Main

CHRISTMAS

GIFTS, FURNITURE, DECOR, ARCHITECTURALS, HARDWARE, RECLAIMED DOORS

FEELS LIKE HOME!

COME IN TODAY FOR INCENTIVES TO RENT

Your Smile is Our Passion!

At Dental Professionals on Whitesburg, Dr. Sonya Wintzell, DMD and her dedicated team believe every visit to the dentist should be a positive, empowering experience. From the moment you walk through our doors, you will feel cared for—whether you are here for a routine cleaning or a complete smile makeover.

Your smile is one of a kind—let us help you love it even more.

Come see why patients look forward to their visits.

The Holiday Season

Christmas Magic. When I think back on my favorite Christmas memories, there are some special gifts that come to mind, but even more so are the moments. I remember making homemade ornaments, stringing popcorn, helping my grandmother cook so many pies, rolling date balls with my mom, sister, and daughter. It was the time and effort that went into creating that was magic.

In a season that has become known for its hustle and bustle, isn't it nice to slow down and be still. Creating allows us time to be still. It allows us time to bring beauty and something tangible into this world. In this issue you will find many moments that call for being still. Writer Martha Lynn Coon takes an in depth look at the meaning of Advent and the art of being still. World renowned photographer and owner of Andiamo Lodge Colleen Duffley invites us into her carefully curated celebration of the season using muted colors and natural aesthetics. Entrepreneur Jennifer Hunt tells the story of how creating a Christmas card led to the birth of a 10 year business based on creativity and intentionality. Red Land Cotton debuts their holiday linen collection with a story rooted in creating from this Alabama land. Writer and influencer Jessica AguirreCantrell shares the special tradition she started of a Gingerbread party and Stella's owner Angela Panzica shares crafted drink ideas that evoke holiday cheer.

You will also find stories of living through grief, something we all inevitably end up going through at some point in our lives. The Mastersons share how they found joy through grief after. losing their son. And writer Javacia Harris Bowser sat down with Poet Laureate Angela Jones on her new book about grieving her father.

It is the holiday season and it carries with it many memories and many emotions. It is time when you realize that as humans we all carry powerful, but opposing emotions simultaneously. A time when great joy and great pain coexist in this beautiful human experience. We invite you to take time this season - to create, to be still, to celebrate, to grieve, to cherish.

Long. Live. Print.

AMY BAILEY, PUBLISHER

December 2025

PUBLISHER

Amy Bailey | amy.bailey@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Casey Creque | casey.creque@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Susan Rogers | susan.rogers@citylifestyle.com

COPY EDITOR

Mary Nell Cole

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jessica Aguirre- Cantrell, Javacia Bowser, Jennifer Hunt, Colleen Duffley

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Geo Stout, Lesley Nowlin, Colleen Duffy

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto

LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas

Dogwood

UNDEVELOPED ACREAGE INSIDE MADISON CITY LIMITS. ZONED M-1 IN MADISON RESEARCH PARK . MINUTES TO REDSTONE ARSENAL,MARSHALL SPACE FLIGHT CENTER, I-565, HUNTSVILLE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT AND SURROUNDED BY A THRIVING ECOSYSTEM OF OVER 300 COMPANIES AND OR GANIZATIONS LIKE ADTRAN, LOCKHEED MARTIN, LEIDOS AND BLUE ORIGIN

Donna Burns is a trusted agent known for her unmatched expertise and dedication to delivering exceptional results. Donna’s connection to the community and knowledge of the local market empower her to help you with all your

Build your dream home in paradise.

LAKE POINTE CIRCLE - SCOTTSBORO, ALABAMA

In an exclusive enclave, on deep water this gentle sloping lot is the perfect place to build your dreams!

Helms Senior Vice President

ARTICLE BY MARTHA LYNN COON | ART BY LESLEY NOWLIN

Advent Season

Writer Martha Lynn Coon explores the meaning of Advent

Growing up in the Tennessee Valley, fall was always a time of both wonder and anxiety.  The natural world shines in the most gorgeous way, with our deciduous trees putting on a warm and rich fanfare of color as they say goodbye to their leaves until spring.  Trails in and around Huntsville begin to take on that strange but beautiful quality which the bareness of winter reveals: rock outcroppings loom larger and more stark, bare branches intertwine and seem limitless as they climb upward, birds seem so quiet that the occasional squirrel skirting through the leaves can sound like an event.

Though beautiful, this time of year can feel overwhelming for many of us.  Like most Southerners, I am a child of heat and light.  We love our summers, full of green plants and warm sunlight, distracted by the abundance that nature provides, both in the delicious yield of our farms and gardens, and the gorgeous flowers blooming everywhere.   But as summer turns to fall, and eventually winter, the fading light and the ending of natural cycles can inspire thoughts of our own mortality and those we love.   As a young person, the transition to holiday cheer in the midst of mid-winter felt challenging.

The bright lights, the parties, and the busyness created a tension with the reality I saw outside and felt inside.  This disparity carried a sort of heaviness, a slight sense of shame about my own internal landscape, which felt much more in sync with the cycles of nature, and often did not match the excess of good cheer and celebration that many associate with the holiday season.

Then I discovered, really discovered, the Christian practice of Advent.  Growing up in the church, I’d understood the practice vaguely.  As an adult, I’ve come to embrace that Advent is a critical player in the holiday experience, and for me personally, an invitation to fall back in love with the season.

Advent invites us to slow down, to do less, and to take intentional time for focusing inward, rather than outward, during one of the busiest seasons of the year.  Dating back to the 4th century, the

season that we now call Advent (from the Latin “adventus”, meaning “coming” or “arrival”) was first practiced as a period of fasting and penitence before individuals were baptized into the church on Epiphany.  Many pagan customs were also folded into the traditions of Advent, so whether or not someone is a practicing Christian, there are roots in this season that are relevant to all of us.  Lighting candles, building fires, decorating with evergreens, performing acts of service, and observing the Solstice all reconnect us with ancient traditions that lean heavily into observance and celebration of the natural world, as well as regenerative acts of community and kindness.

Over time, Advent became associated with a joyful anticipation of the birth of Christ rather than the typical solemnity of a fasting season and remains a time to focus on the four pillars of hope, peace, joy, and love.  Regardless of your religious beliefs and traditions, finding intentional space to reflect on the gifts of mid-winter can be an amazing precursor to a holiday celebration of love, life, and light. Last year, I committed to fasting after sundown during Advent.  It was challenging at times, but the daily practice helped me stay focused on the inward quality of the season and centered simplicity in the evenings, which in turn fostered more space for rest.  Selfishly, it also gave my waistline more space to expand once the feast of Christmas arrived and the sweet potato casserole was on the table.

“As an adult, I’ve come to embrace that Advent is a critical player in the holiday experience, an invitation to fall back in love with the season.”

Physical fasting is only one of many possibilities though; there are so many creative Advent calendars on the market these days, and each one could ground a daily ritual that embodies both the joyful anticipation and the deep reflection of the season. In the stillness of winter nights, we are invited to reflect with what Father Richard Rohr calls “the language of descent.”  Rohr reminds us how important it is to enter the dark periods of life “willingly and trustingly” as they are often our best teachers.  “Religious energy is in the dark questions, seldom in the answers” writes Rohr in his book Everything Belongs:  The Gift of Contemplative Prayer.

weekly rituals for the families in her congregation each year, accompanied by a small but simple bag of supplies for each family to keep activities easy and streamlined.  Saffell says, “I try to keep each week not much longer than 5 minutes, and every week includes one scripture, one service prompt, and one fun activity.”

Whatever practice you utilize in your own life to prepare for and usher in the holidays, I hope you find something that allows you to connect to the richness that the darkness holds for all of us.   The German poet Rainer Maria Rilke once wrote that the darkness let him “imagine a great presence stirring” beside him.  Connecting to

Whether your daily reflection connects to one piece of chocolate popped out of an Advent calendar, or a bag of tea or any other culinary delight, let the sweetness support your spirit as it takes time and space to hold something bigger for a moment as well.

Perhaps the easiest thing to do in Advent is the hardest of them all:  Simply slowing down.  Brittney Saffell, a mother of three and Director of Children’s Ministries at Aldersgate UMC in South Huntsville, tries to encourage her own family towards a practice of simplicity during the season, prioritizing two big holiday commitments among a field of possibilities.  Saffell also prepares brief

something larger, a great stirring presence, is something many of us could use in a time such as this. Whether you light a candle, say a prayer, read a book, or just relish more quiet and rest this season, I hope that the holidays afford you space to slow down, to lean into a space of nurture, and to find your own way home.

DATES FOR 2025 ADVENT

Sunday, November 30th until Wednesday, December 24th

*If you really want to lean in, Eastern Orthodox Christians celebrate a full forty days of fast, beginning (this year) on Saturday, November 15th

THE PLACE FOR YOUR MOST UNIQUE HOLIDAY GIFTS & MORE

THE PLACE FOR YOUR MOST UNIQUE HOLIDAY GIFTS & MORE

DECEMBER 4 5-8PM TH DECEMBER 5-8PM TH

SMALL GROUP CLASSES

CHR I S T MAS MAGIC

PHOTOGRAPHER AND ENTREPRENEUR COLLEEN DUFFLEY BRINGS HOLIDAY MAGIC TO LIFE THROUGH CURATED TABLESCAPES AND RECIPES

ARTICLE BY AMY BAILEY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY COLLEEN DUFFLEY

Andiamo Lodge in Mentone is a haven of creativity curated by photographer and entrepreneur Colleen Duffley. Colleen and her husband Steve, a restaurateur, opened Andiamo Lodge as a place for creative experiences. We asked Colleen to share some of her favorite holiday entertaining tips through words and images.

“The table is where magic happens. It’s where conversation sparks creativity and curiosity, where stories unfold, and connections deepen. Food is the great equalizer, bringing together people from all walks of life in the most human way.”

“I absolutely love the holidays, though I’ve never been one for the traditional red and green. I’m drawn to the softer tones found in nature - warm neutrals, layers of texture, and a touch of the unexpected. Bringing the outside in always feels right to me.”

“At the lodge, and in our own home, we love to elevate the familiar, adding unexpected touches that make each meal feel special.”

“Every detail at Andiamo Lodge is considered with care, from textures and colors to curated experiences. My favorite mantra is that guests arrive as strangers and leave as friends.”

DESIGN | BUILD

YOUR REALTOR FOR LIFE

Let me help guide you through the buying or selling process. I am a life-long resident of Huntsville and love this city. I have been a realtor for 23 years. I am very passionate about developing lasting relationships with clients. I truly care about them and their families. I strive to make your experience in moving to, within or from Huntsville as quick and stress free as possible.

Jeanne Allen, Owner and Broker Associate 3508 Memorial Pkwy SW, Huntsville (256) 337-7615 www.findinghuntsvillehomes.com

POET LAUREATE ANGELA JONES

Expressions of grief through writing

ARTICLE BY JAVACIA HARRIS BOWSER

Four years ago, Ashley M. Jones made history as she became Alabama’s first Black and youngest poet laureate. That same year, however, she experienced a devastating personal loss— the sudden and unexpected passing of her beloved father.

“I think people can use writing as a practice to get those thoughts out of their own head.”

Released in September 2025 by Hub City Press, Lullaby for the Grieving marks Jones’ fourth and most intimate poetry collection yet. Through this work, she delves into the many layers of mourning - both the deep personal sorrow of losing her father and the broader collective grief shaped by her experiences and surroundings. We talked with Jones about the role that writing has played in her grief process and why she believes everyone should pick up the pen.

HOW HAS WRITING HELPED YOU NAVIGATE YOUR GRIEF FOR YOUR FATHER?

It’s given me space and time to just think and allow myself to feel. I used to be someone

who would hide my feelings. People talk about the strong friend. That’s who I was, and the grieving process has stripped that away from me. Writing the poems really allowed me to see a new version of myself and to try to understand who I am now without my dad. I’m also getting to know him in a new way. When somebody dies, their body is gone, and so you’re trying to figure out what to do with all the energy you have toward them. Writing has allowed me to visit my dad through memory and to keep him alive through the words that I’m writing. Even poems that I wrote before he died -- when I read those, I feel like I’m connecting with him in a new way.

CONTINUED >

“Writing the poems really allowed me to see a new version of myself and to try to understand who I am now without my dad.”

— ASHLEY M. JONES

AS A POET, YOU ARE VERY INTENTIONAL ABOUT THE FORM OF YOUR WORK. YOU’VE SAID IN OTHER INTERVIEWS THAT THE BOOK’S HEROIC CROWN OF SONNETS FOR YOUR FATHER REPRESENT THE HUGE PRESENCE THAT HE WAS IN YOUR LIFE AND THE ENORMITY OF GRIEF. THE BOOK ALSO FEATURES SEVERAL VERY BRIEF POEMS THAT YOU CALL GRIEF INTERLUDES. WHAT ARE THESE MEANT TO REPRESENT?

I didn’t realize what they were at first, but I kept writing the same type of poem and they would come out of nowhere. I would sit down to do something else, but this grief thing popped up, and I needed to get it down. And I started to realize that these interludes --  that’s what I decided to call them – were what was happening in my life. At first when my dad passed away, all of my moments were filled with thinking about him and there was no break. But eventually it came to a point where I could do regular stuff, but then something would take me back to a particular moment – like being at a QuikTrip and just seeing some guy get into his truck. The moment came and it went, like an interlude, but it was very intense while it was happening. Those poems replicate that feeling, that grief is something that punctuates our lives.

HOW DO YOU DEFINE SOCIETAL GRIEF?

Looking out into the world and seeing someone call you names. I do feel pain when someone calls me names. I feel pain when I see TV clips of somebody demeaning others. I feel pain if somebody is questioning my ability. Sometimes it feels like I’m just fighting to be a human. Through this work, there are many layers of mourning - both the deep personal sorrow of losing a father and the broader collective grief shaped by experiences and surroundings.

DO YOU THINK THAT PEOPLE WHO DON’T CONSIDER THEMSELVES WRITERS CAN STILL USE WRITING TO NAVIGATE GRIEF?

I think people can use writing as a practice to get those thoughts out of their own head.  That’s, to me, part of the point of having a therapist. I got one after my dad died to just get stuff out of my body because it was just rotting inside of me. I don’t think poetry is the only way. There are definitely some things I’ve just had to write down just to see it on the page and say, this is a fact. I’m going to read this fact over and over to combat whatever negative thoughts are in my mind. I think everyone should write.

Life After Grief

The Masterson family lost their son Aaron to Cystic Fibrosis in 2018. Aaron was 12 and would have been 13 in April of 2018. Aaron was the only boy among 3 sisters and the only child with Cystic Fibrosis. He brought levity to the girl drama in the Masterson house. He had big blue eyes and a contagious laugh. He loved being with friends and family, meeting new people and he was a good listener.  He did all the things to keep himself healthy (meds, chest

CONTINUED >

PT, nebulizer, Dr visits, hospitalizations, and PIC lines without anesthetic) and never complained. He loved sports, soccer, swimming and football and loved watching football, especially Alabaman football. He also loved Star Wars, being in Boy Scouts, and playing the Xbox. We sat down with Sara and Don Masterson to talk about Aaron and how they learned to cope with this tragedy.

WHAT ARE WAYS YOU AND DON LEARNED TO COPE WITH THIS TRAGEDY?

Our family learned that talking to each other regularly, about Aaron and how we were doing, and putting up a “We Love Aaron” wall with help from family and friends and adding pieces to it brought us joy. Talking about him with others was always better than not talking about him. We planted a tree and bench in Monte Sano State Park in his memory also.

WHAT ARE SOME COPING MECHANISMS YOU WOULD RECOMMEND TO OTHERS GRIEVING?

Don’t isolate yourself and let yourself grieve!  Don’t judge yourself for “not being over this by now”.

HOW CAN PEOPLE SUPPORT SOMEONE ELSE WHO IS GRIEVING?

Support others by praying and asking them about their loved one. Sometimes those that have lost loved ones feel like they will be forgotten. It’s so important to let them know their loved one’s life made a difference and that they are missed.

HOW DO YOU HANDLE THE ANNIVERSARY OR OTHER GRIEF TRIGGERS?

We always celebrate Aaron’s birthday by making one of his favorite meals, desserts, and watching Star Wars movies with family. We also wear red, his favorite color.

HOW DID YOU FIND MEANING AFTER THIS LOSS?

We find meaning in his loss by thinking of what he brought to the world and keeping it going; relating to others that experience grief and understand that we are never alone. God is always with us in our suffering.

“Tell others it is important to grieve (cry, write in a journal, talk honestly with God, have therapy, whatever you need to do the work of grieving). It is not healthy to stifle grief.”

HOW DID YOU BEGIN TO FIND JOY AGAIN?

We trusted God and we were so thankful we had Aaron vs never having him at all. We believed good would come out of our suffering and out of his life. He was an organ donor and was able to give his heart to someone who needed it.

HOW DID THIS CHANGE YOU?

It made us stronger in our faith and more humble knowing that Aaron was God’s child before ours. He could give and take as He thought best.  We also knew Aaron was in Heaven doing great and we had nothing to worry about - no CF, no trouble breathing and no therapy! He would want us to live life to the fullest as he did.

WHAT ARE THINGS YOU WANT TO TELL OTHERS ABOUT GRIEF?

Tell others it is important to grieve (cry, write in a journal, talk honestly with God, have therapy, whatever you need to do the work of grieving). It is not healthy to stifle grief. Talk about your loved one to others and those who knew him/her should relay stories about them. Thank God for the time you had with them, and think about what they taught you and how you can carry this on.

From caregiving and nursing to urgent care and pro-active wellness services, homeRN makes staying healthy at home easy, personalized, and stress-free

CAREGIVING

Compassionate, consistent care to support daily routines and independence.

SKILLED NURSING

Nurse oversight for chronic conditions, medication management, and more.

POST-OPERATIVE CARE

Recover safely and confidently with guided support from experienced nurses.

IV THERAPY

Hydration, energy boosts, and recovery support—delivered to you.

URGENT CARE

Fast treatment for flu, covid, and more— with option to add IV fluids.

VITAMIN INJECTIONS

Wellness in every dose—essential nutrients for a stronger, healthier you.

Advanced Primary Care GLP-1 Assisted Weight Optimization Programs Bioidentical Hormone Replacement

GINGERBREAD PARTY TIME

ARTICLE BY JESSICA AGUIRRE-CANTRELL

WRITER AND INFLUENCER JESSICA AGUIRRECANTRELL SHARES A CHRISTMAS TRADITION CLOSE TO HER HEART

There is something about the glow of the holiday season that feels like magic. Some of the most special gifts are found in family traditions we have created and in welcoming others into our home. I have always wanted to give that same feeling to my children, to show them that the true beauty of Christmas is not in perfection, but in presence, connection, and shared joy. I have always loved the magic of the season and wanted to create it, foster it, and share it with others.

Sometimes, that magic begins simply by opening your door and giving friends and family something special to look forward to. Hosting has become my favorite way to slow down the rush of the holidays and fill our home with warmth and the comfort of belonging. They say the days are long but the years are short. In the busyness of life, I have learned to pause and make room for the moments that become the heart of our family’s story.

Long before my daughter was born, I dreamed of creating something special for her each year, a celebration she could look forward to, remember fondly, and one day, maybe even continue with her own family. That dream became our annual Gingerbread Decorating Party. Since my daughter Camila turned two, we have invited her cousins and closest friends to our home for an afternoon of sugar, laughter, and joy. It is an intimate gathering, just a few girls and their mothers, but it has become one of our most treasured family traditions.

It is truly a family effort. My husband, Billy, helps me build all of the gingerbread houses, carefully holding the walls in place while I pipe the icing that hardens like cement. Our children help us pick out the candies and happily serve as the official taste-testers. Each year, I reuse the same tablecloths, a familiar backdrop for the magic to unfold. Glass dishes are filled to the brim with candies, peppermints, gumdrops, chocolate drops, and sprinkles in every shade. I make sure everything is ready to go before our guests arrive so that the moms can walk in and simply enjoy the

moment with their daughters. It is a small gift I hope feels as sweet to them as the treats on the table. I always add something unique, like braided marshmallows or pastel Christmas candies. The girls giggle as they decorate, carefully placing each candy piece, showing off their designs, and sneaking a few bites in between.

Each house becomes a reflection of its maker, full of creativity, charm, and personality. What I love most is that these gingerbread houses live on long after the party ends. The icing hardens, and the houses can be kept as holiday décor, tiny time capsules from a moment in their childhood. Each December, when I pull them out, I am reminded of who they were that year, how small their hands once were, and how much joy can live inside a single afternoon.

When the party is over, there are crumbs, sprinkles, and candies all over the floor, icing hardened on the table. And that is how I know it was a success. I will host this party for as long as my Camila will let me.

Though I know the details will change, my hope is that this tradition continues, that my daughter will always return to this memory and remember the love that built it. I pray that one day, I might be given the gift of hosting it again and again for her and for her daughter. As the sound of Christmas music floats through the house with the sweet smells of the season, and the laughter begins to wind down, I start to look around at what has unfolded, and I am reminded once again that this time of year holds a beauty all its own.

The true gift of Christmas has always been found right here, inside our home.

Create lasting holiday memories with a simple, joy-filled tradition.

How to Host Your Own Gingerbread House Party

1. INVITATIONS

The fun begins when guests receive their gingerbread party invitation. Mailing printed invitations makes guests feel special and helps ensure the celebration makes it onto their calendars during such a busy time of year.

2. TABLES AND CHAIRS

Rent or borrow child-sized tables and chairs so the little ones can easily decorate. It feels intimate, and it ensures all the candies are within reach. The girls love seeing each other’s creations and sitting side by side.

3. TABLE SETUP

I reuse the same white and pale pink tablecloths each year and add touches of pink, red, and bows for a classic holiday look. Reusing these keeps the setup low effort and creates a timeless look. Down the center of the table, I place Christmas accents like ribbon trees, nutcrackers, and bottle brush trees. The mix of colors and textures creates a whimsical and photo-worthy display.

4. CANDY AND DISHES

Use glass bowls and paper cups filled with colorful candies spread along the table. Include a mix of classics and fun finds such as gummies, mini marshmallows, sprinkles, peppermints, gumdrops, buttermints, braided marshmallows, and edible holiday-themed candies. Keep everything within easy reach so little hands can decorate freely. CONTINUED >

“I HAVE LEARNED TO PAUSE AND MAKE ROOM FOR THE MOMENTS THAT BECOME THE HEART OF OUR FAMILY’S STORY.”

5. PREMADE HOUSES

Build the gingerbread houses before the party so they are sturdy and ready to decorate. Using prebuilt kits or graham crackers saves time and keeps the day enjoyable for children and their adults.

6. ROYAL ICING

Royal icing is the trick to a successful gingerbread house. It is thick, pipes easily, and hardens as it dries so each creation lasts long after the party.

Royal Icing Recipe:

• ½ cup liquid egg whites or 2 large egg whites

• 4 to 5 cups (about one 1 lb bag) powdered sugar

• ½ teaspoon cream of tartar

Directions: Beat the mixture in a stand mixer until stiff peaks form, adjusting the sugar slightly until the icing is thick but smooth enough to pipe. It will hold its shape beautifully and dry rock hard, keeping every masterpiece intact for seasons to come.

7. SNACKS AND DRINKS

Offer simple breakfast foods like sausage pinwheels, chicken minis, fruit, and sweets. Keep it easy for small hands to grab and for grazing throughout the party.

8. ENJOY THE MAGIC

Have everything ready before guests arrive so parents can relax and join in. Once the icing sets, each house becomes a keepsake and a sweet reminder of the joy found in gathering together.

Sweet Holidays Alabama

DOGWOOD HILL’S JENNIFER HUNT GETS YOU READY TO CELEBRATE

When Dogwood Hill creator Jennifer Hunt married 20 years ago, she absolutely loved sending Christmas cards. In those early years, she was on a mission for their card to be different from everyone else’s. Nothing fancy—just unique, something that felt like them.

Every fall, she would find myself at the local stationery shop, collaborating with the lovely ladies there to create something from scratch. One year, she had this idea for a card with original artwork on it—but no clue how to make that happen. She started describing what she imagined, and one of the women in the shop quickly sketched it out. She fell in love instantly. The woman at the stationery store offered to try to find someone who could paint it, but Jennifer told her, “No, I want this! ” She added a little color, and that sketch became the front of their card. That’s the moment Jennifer fell in love with the idea of pairing art and holiday cards.

The only problem? Back then, creating something like that meant hiring an artist—which was expensive and time-consuming—and then finding a graphic designer (if you didn’t have a trusted stationery shop) to turn the art into an actual card. It wasn’t exactly a quick or easy process.

Fast forward to October of 2014: Jennifer reached out to an artist (who was also a designer) to see if she could create their holiday card that year. Not only was Jennifer  way too late, but the artist’s price was far beyond her budget. So, Jennifer turned to the internet, hoping to find something that felt special and custom—but also quick, affordable, and easy to preview online. After hours of searching, she came up empty-handed.

That’s when the lightbulb went off. What if she created the kind of company she was looking for? One that brought together talented artists, skilled designers, and customers who loved beautiful stationery—but without the long wait or high price tag. She got to work in the spring of 2015, and by October, Dogwood Hill launched its very first holiday card collection.

HOW HAS DOGWOOD HILL GROWN OVER THE PAST 10 YEARS?

It’s wild to think how much we’ve grown in ten years! Our very first holiday card collection had about 350 pieces total—that included the cards themselves, matching return address envelopes, and gift tags. At the time, it felt like such a big collection. Fast forward to today, and our holiday collections can easily include a few thousand pieces! Each year for our holiday collection, we commission original artwork from around 17 incredible artists. Once their paintings come in, our in-house design team works their magic—transforming that art into cards, wrapping paper and tags, envelopes, and all sorts of beautiful products. By the time it’s all said and done, we usually have around 100 different art “suites” for customers to shop each holiday season. And because so many people fall in love with past designs, our most popular cards from earlier collections are still available on our site. I like to think we truly have something for everyone. And while holiday cards will always have our heart, we’ve expanded far beyond them. We now offer a full lineup of stationery—think notecards, notepads, calling cards—as well as wedding invitations, wrapping paper, gift tags, stickers, and party invitations for every occasion. Most recently, we added our Home Collection, featuring wallpaper and fabric by the yard. It’s been so fun watching Dogwood Hill grow from a handful of Christmas cards to a full lifestyle brand rooted in art.

WHAT IS NEW ON THE HORIZON FOR THIS HOLIDAY SEASON AND NEXT YEAR?

I am so excited about a partnership we’ve been working on all year with the WILLIAMSBURG brand—it’s truly a dream come true. I’m a self-described history nerd (from a whole family of history nerds!), and I grew up in a house my parents built that was inspired by the Raleigh Tavern and other historic homes in Williamsburg. My mom had such a gift for decorating for the holidays—always in true Williamsburg fashion, with fresh greenery, citrus, and beautiful sprays over the front door. The holidays in that house were magical, so getting to bring that tradition full circle with this collaboration feels incredibly special.

“Each year for our holiday collection, we commission original artwork from around 17 incredible artists.”

“The response from our customers has already been amazing, and we’re thrilled to be continuing the partnership with a 2026 Williamsburg Collection that’s already in the works.”

Our inaugural Williamsburg Collection includes eight patterns— two of them available in two colorways—each one featuring original 18th-century wallpapers and textiles. One suite even features pages from a rare Christmas book from the 1850s; the engravings are breathtaking. Every detail in the collection feels rich with history yet reimagined in a fresh, modern way.

The response from our customers has already been amazing, and we’re thrilled to be continuing the partnership with a 2026 Williamsburg Collection that’s already in the works. This collaboration combines everything I love—art, history, tradition, and the beauty of storytelling through design—and I couldn’t be prouder of how it’s come to life.

“We’re constantly finding inspiration—whether it’s through travel, flipping through vintage stationery, or simply falling in love with something personal that somehow finds its way into a collection.”

HOW DO YOU KEEP THE DESIGNS FRESH?

We’re constantly finding inspiration—whether it’s through travel, flipping through vintage stationery, or simply falling in love with something personal that somehow finds its way into a collection. Sometimes our ideas come from curiosity; other times, from a desire to shake things up. Every so often, we just feel ready to turn design on its head and try something completely new.

This year, one thing Lucy Young, our Creative Director, and I really noticed after visiting the Williamsburg archives of wallpaper, textiles, and prints was how the artisans layered art 200 years ago on these pieces that lived in historic homes. We hadn’t quite thought about layering in the same way before, but it influenced this year’s collection—and I love the subtle nod to that rich history woven throughout our designs.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PATTERN OR COLOR SCHEMES TO USE UNDER YOUR OWN TREE?

Oh, I’m a 100% Christmas color traditionalist! Red and green are my go-to—I love them, and you’ll rarely see me stray from that palette, even when I’m setting the Christmas table. That said, I’ve been known to sneak in a little blue here and there. Blue and green are my favorite colors, so I guess that attachment still pops up for the holidays from time to time!

ANY NEW PRODUCTS BEING ADDED TO THE SITE?

I have boys, so the sorority excitement will pass me by when their college days arrive—but I do have three nieces! Our oldest niece just started her freshman year at my alma mater, The University of Alabama, and she pledged the same sorority my mom, aunt, sister-in-law and I were in. That was such a special moment for all of us! Inspired by her, we’ve created a huge Greek Life Notepad collection that I absolutely love. Every sorority is represented, and these notepads make perfect gifts for the holidays, birthdays, and Bid Day when it rolls around again.

WHERE DO YOU SEE DOGWOOD HILL IN 5 YEARS?

I’m so excited to see our Home Division continue to grow! Our inaugural collection featured patterns from our first five years in business. They’re beautiful, and I couldn’t be happier with how they turned out—but we’re just getting started! Next year, we’ll be adding newer patterns, including coordinating pieces designed to create full, cohesive sets. These are some of our best designs yet. I feel confident interior designers will love incorporating these designs into their projects, but the best part is that anyone can shop our wallpaper and fabric directly at our new site: dogwoodhill-home.com

“We hadn’t quite thought about layering in the same way before, but it influenced this year’s collection— and I love the subtle nod to that rich history woven throughout our designs.”

We’re also launching a Dogwood Hill Business line next year, which will be such a wonderful addition to our offerings. And of course, we’ll continue doing what we love most—creating beautiful holiday cards and all the other products our customers have cherished over the years.

COOLEST MOMENT OR MOMENTS IN YOUR BUSINESS?

There are so many highlights, but one of the most exciting has been partnering with WILLIAMSBURG and traveling there twice already this year—with maybe one more trip before the year ends! Getting to go behind the scenes with curators into the archives, where we viewed hundreds of textiles, rare

prints, books, and even wallpaper remnants from houses dating back to 1717, was like being a kid in a candy store. Truly a dream! I feel so lucky to have had such an incredible, behind-the-scenes look at the largest living museum in the world, and I hope everyone gets a chance to plan a trip there to experience it themselves.

HARDEST ASPECT OF BEING AN ENTREPRENEUR?

If anyone tells you that being an entrepreneur is easy, they probably haven’t done it themselves! It’s one of the hardest things I’ve ever done—but also one of the most rewarding. This business never stops, never sleeps, and rarely gives me a moment of downtime. But would I trade it? Not for anything. I’ve loved every moment of the last 10+ years, and I hope to love it for many more to come.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE HOLIDAY TRADITION?

Every year, we host a Christmas Day brunch for family. It usually includes both sets of grandparents for our boys, along with an aunt and uncle. The table is piled high with delicious brunch food, and it happens after Santa has visited our home that morning with just our little family. This tradition started before we had children, and we’ve kept it going as they’ve grown. There’s something special about gathering everyone together on Christmas Day itself—laughing, sharing stories, and simply enjoying being together.

THREE THINGS YOU WOULD GRAB IN A ZOMBIE APOCALYPSE?

Ha! I’d probably grab more than I could carry. Could I have a suitcase? I would stuff it with every photo album I could fit (’90s kid problems: film photos everywhere), a handful of favorite books, and my pillow that’s basically my travel twin.

NORTH ALABAMA’S INJURY ATTORNEYS

• CAR ACCIDENTS

• TRUCK ACCIDENTS

• MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENTS

• BICYCLE ACCIDENTS

• SLIP AND FALL

• CONSTRUCTION ACCIDENTS

• MEDICAL MALPRACTICE BIRTH INJURIES

• NURSING HOME ABUSE

• ASSISTED LIVING ABUSE AND NEGLECT

• WRONGFUL DEATH

• BURN INJURIES

• DOG BITES

• WORKERS’ COMPENSATION

• SPINAL CORD INJURIES

• TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURIES

THE STORY BEHIND ALABAMA GROWN RED LAND COTTON AND THEIR ORGANICALLY MADE SHEETS

Get Cozy In Alabama Cotton

ARTICLE BY AMY BAILEY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LAUREY GLENN AND STACIE KINNEY

The Red Land Cotton story begins on the Yeager family farm in Moulton, Alabama, where their cotton has been grown for 3 generations. In 2016, Mark Yeager had the idea of doing something MORE with his cotton. He had the idea to make bedsheets that would be from his cotton made entirely in the USA. He asked his daughter Anna to be his partner in the venture and the rest is history! Red Land grows the cotton, then spins, weaves, finishes and sews it into bed and bath products entirely made in the USA, inspired by the feel and durability of vintage linens passed down through families.

WHAT IS THE MISSION OF RED LAND COTTON?

The mission of Red Land Cotton is to preserve and strengthen American manufacturing by producing high-quality, everyday necessities right here at home. From the cotton fields of Alabama to the final stitch, every step of our process supports U.S. jobs, uplifts local economies, and keeps our supply chain rooted firmly in American soil. We exist to meet the need for timeless, dependable goods while honoring the hardworking hands that make them. By keeping our production in the USA, we’re not just making bedding, we’re investing in the future of American craftsmanship.

CONTINUED >

HOW DOES RED LAND COTTON WORK WITH ALABAMA’S LAND TO CREATE ITS PRODUCTS?

Red Land Cotton’s connection to Alabama’s land runs deep, with our family farming the same soil for generations. We manage over 5,000 acres, growing cotton and corn in rotation to keep the soil healthy and nutrient-rich year after year. Our farm also houses a cotton gin, which allows us to process our cotton locally and maintain production right here in Alabama. Beyond the fields, we operate a sewing facility and warehouse in Moulton, where the fruits of the land are transformed into the high-quality bedding and bath products our customers love. Everything is made with care and pride, staying true to our commitment to keep production as local as possible.

FAVORITE ASPECT OF FARMING?

My favorite part of farming is watching my family come together to make it happen. My dad has been farming since the ’80s, and my brothers have grown up doing this all their lives. My mom is always there through the early mornings and late nights, supporting every step of the process. Farming is truly an all in effort for us, and it’s incredibly rewarding to see a successful harvest at the end of it all. This is more than just a farm, it’s our life and legacy.

TELL ME ABOUT YOUR ALABAMA HOME AND WHAT LIVING IN THIS STATE HAS MEANT TO YOU?

Alabama has always been my home and always will be. Though I’ve lived in many places outside the Yellowhammer State, I always find myself coming back. I went to school here (War Eagle!), met my husband here, my family is here, I’m raising my kids here, and my business is thriving here. We love where we live and take pride in serving the communities around us by providing jobs and supporting our neighbors.

WHAT ALL PRODUCTS DO YOU CURRENTLY OFFER?

At Red Land Cotton, we offer a full line of heirloom-inspired, American-made linens for the home. Our bedding collection includes sheet sets in a variety of sizes and colors, duvet covers, blankets, quilts, pillowcases, and shams. In the bath category, we offer bath towels, hand towels, washcloths, and bath sheets. Everything is crafted with the same attention to quality and detail. We also offer a range of home and lifestyle goods including throw blankets, baby products, tea towels, and golf towels. Additionally, we create seasonal and limited-edition collaborations, such as our Tunnel to Towers blanket, to honor meaningful causes and share our values through our products.

WHERE DO YOU SEE RED LAND COTTON IN 5 YEARS?

In five years, we see Red Land Cotton growing stronger than ever, expanding our footprint while staying true to our roots. We hope to invest in more facilities across our supply chain, allowing us to bring even more of the production process under our own roof and, of course, keep it here in the U.S. With that growth comes the opportunity to hire more people, create meaningful jobs, and directly impact even more families in our community. At our core, we want to continue producing high-quality American-made goods while building something that supports generations to come.

CONTINUED >

WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE MEMORIES GROWING UP IN ALABAMA?

I loved my childhood growing up in the middle of a farm. My brothers and I played outside and in the fields without any care in the world. I loved the Alabama vs Auburn themed days growing up in school. I love the barbecue here and the sweet people. My fondest memory of growing up in Alabama is attending Auburn University. It was a truly special and transformative four years for me. I met some of my best friends, I met my husband and I studied a

craft in Graphic Design that would propel me to where I am today.

FAVORITE MEMORY FROM BEING IN BUSINESS AS RED LAND COTTON?

There are truly too many to count! However, I will never forget unboxing our first pallet of inventory and packing our first orders. We had roughly 100 pre-orders of our bedding in October of 2016 when that pallet arrived! We haven’t looked back since!

Visit and shop Red Land Cotton at Redlandcotton.com.

ARTICLE BY ASHLEY MORRIS

Holiday Style Must Haves

FROM THE QUEEN BEE OF BEVERLY HILLS

VALENTINO GARAVANI

Valentino Garavani Roman Stud Medium Shoulder Bag Metallic Green Lurex

Parties, events, community... these are part of what makes the holiday season so magical. The buzz of conversation with Christmas music in the background, shimmers of sparkle from not only the decorations, but from the winter wardrobes that grace every room. But no outfit would be complete without accessories, which is why we’ve rounded up some luxurious style favorites from The Queen Bee of Huntsville. Whether it’s a handbag or an accent scarf that you need to set off your look, you can find all of your certified authentic luxury accessories right here at Queen Bee.

PRADA

Prada Re-Nylon Triangle Brushed Leather Black Wallet Mini Crossbody Bag

HERMES

Hermes Les Voitures A Transformation Black and Gold Carriages Silk Scarf

GUCCI

Large Gucci Notebook with Web and Horsebit in Ivory and Brown mini GG

Louis Vuitton Cannes Reverse Monogram Black and Brown Bucket Bag

HERMES

Jumping boot

PRADA

Prada Re-Nylon Rosso Red Drawstring Bucket Bag Embellished Crystal Handle

FF Crystal Embellished Gold Hoop Earrings

256-801-8022

jlanders@keelpoint.com

100 Church St, Ste 500 Huntsville AL 35801

As the holidays bring family, reflection, and celebration, it's the perfect time to think about your financial future.

At Keel Point, we specialize in personalized wealth management, retirement planning, tax strategies, and legacy building. Whether you're growing your portfolio or planning your next chapter, our experienced advisors offer trusted, local guidance tailored to your goals.

This season, give yourself—and your loved ones—the gift of lasting financial security.

✓ Retirement & Investment Planning

✓ Estate & Legacy Solutions

✓ Tax-Efficient Strategies

✓ Personalized, Local Support

Wishing you a season of joy, prosperity, and financial clarity. -The Findlay-Landers Group

Holiday IN THE SPIRIT

A toast to iconic elixirs and holiday magic

ARTICLE BY CASEY CREQUE PHOTOGRAPHY BY GEO STOUT @GEOPHOCO

Stella’s Elixir Lounge is turning five this December, and their new menu celebrates half a decade of their most alluring elixirs. Opened at the end of 2020 on the tail end of a pandemic, Stella’s quickly became a downtown staple for elevated nightlife. With each season, they’ve introduced new cocktails, but in honor of this milestone anniversary, they’re bringing back the most iconic sips—names the regulars know well: Kate Moss, Smoking Gun, and The Purple Diary, to name a few.

Wanting to create a private space for special celebrations, both corporate and social, Panzica opened The Blind Tiger, an upscale event venue designed for connection and creativity. Last year, she introduced The Blind Reindeer, the first of several seasonal pop-ups hosted at The Blind Tiger. The concept instantly became a holiday favorite, blending festive décor, imaginative cocktails, and the same elevated experience guests have come to expect from Stella’s.

As an expert in the industry, owner Angela Panzica has rounded up a few of her fan favorites to put you in the holiday mood this season!

SMOKING GUN

A cinematic blend of Maker’s Mark, spiced apple butter, and ginger beer and finished with a smoked cinnamon stick for a bold, dramatic twist.

KATE MOSS

An espresso martini fit for the runway. Bold, smooth, and effortlessly chic, this cocktail is the ultimate pickme-up, inspired by the supermodel’s famous request: “Wake me up, then…” You know the rest.

MET GALA

A star-studded mix of Reposado tequila, cranberry, orange liqueur, and lime with mint and a sugared rim. Glamorous, lively, and always the life of the party.

SPICED PEAR MULE

This wintery twist on a classic mule combines crisp pear, spicy ginger beer, and a hint of cinnamon for a cozy, yet refreshing holiday beverage.

SWEATER WEATHER

Cozy up to this White Russian remix. Cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves add a seasonal warmth that feels like your favorite holiday sweater in a glass.

PURPLE DIARY

This sultry sip nods to old Hollywood scandal. Blackberry and lemon mingle in a sinful vodka base, as mysterious and alluring as the diary that inspired it.

Book your reservation to experience the magic at BlindTiger.com/blind-reindeer. @stellahsv @blindtigerhsv

Men’s Holiday

Style

OXFORD STREET MENSWEAR SHARES SEASONAL STAPLES FOR ELEVATED STYLE

Holiday parties, family photos, and festive gatherings will have you upping your wardrobe game this season. We’ve rounded up some men’s style staples from Oxford Street Menswear that will elevate any look to have you looking and feeling your best for the holidays.

01. UPTON LUXE BY JOHNSTON AND MURPHY. This J&M 175th Anniversary Upton Coat is made from an ultrasoft blend of wool and cashmere for a rich, plush feel, and features refined genuine suede trim. Designed for versatile warmth, this medium-weight coat includes a button front and a removable suede zip bib. The special  Limited Edition quilted lining celebrates J&M’s milestone, making it a truly unique piece you won’t find anywhere else. 02. MIZZEN AND MAIN DENIM SHIRT. The Nash Cambray Shirt has the look of denim in a soft-to-the-touch feel. Made with moisture-wicking, breathable, and lightweight fabric that’s perfect for casual days that still call for a buttoned-up style.  03. DUCKHEAD QUARTER-ZIP SWEATER. The Ridley 1/4 Zip Sweater is the ultimate wardrobe essential. Crafted from a luxurious blend of organic cotton and cashmere, its lightweight, 12-gauge jersey knit delivers a refined drape and incredible feel. Subtle tipping and a contrast interior collar add polish. Best of all? It’s conveniently machine washable. 04. FREMONT JACKET BY DUCK HEAD. Crafted from durable polyester and featuring PrimaLoft® Black Insulation, this jacket offers lightweight warmth, loft, and compressibility that closely mimic natural down, even in damp conditions, thanks to its water-resistant microfiber plume construction. The flyover printed lining adds a touch of Duck Head charm to the interior, elevating your look. 05. HAINES CABLE KNIT QUARTER ZIP. Inspired by brisk maritime morning routines, this sweater is crafted from soft, insulating Merino wool for reliable warmth without the weight. Designed with a classic cable knit texture, quarter-zip styling, and a functional throat latch. Naturally breathable and machine washable, it’s the kind of sweater you can throw on for a casual morning walk or dress up for an elevated holiday occasion. 02 01 05 04 03

ARTICLE BY MALIK ARAFAT

Stax Street, Suite 3C Huntsville, AL 35806

code to learn more. squeezemassage.com | @squeeze_huntsville

Once you’ve

Buche de Noel

A FRENCH TRADITION THAT IS AS DELICIOUS AS IT IS BEAUTIFUL

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMY

BAILEY

After traveling to France I became inspired to implement a Buche de Noel into our holiday celebration. I loved the attention to detail, and that this could become a holiday tradition my daughter and I could do together. I even found a beautiful platter in Provence that dated back to the 1800s that could present this labor of love.

INGREDIENTS

Sugared Cranberries & Rosemary

• 1 cup fresh cranberries

• 4–5 rosemary sprigs

• 3/4 cup water

• 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar, divided

Cake

• 1 1/3 cups cake flour

• 1 tsp baking powder

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 6 large eggs, separated and at room temperature

• 1 cup granulated sugar, divided

• 2 TBSP vegetable or canola oil

• 1 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract

For Rolling

• 3 TBSP confectioners’ sugar

Meringue Mushrooms

• 1 large egg white, at room temperature

• less than 1/8 tsp cream of tartar

• pinch of salt

• 2 TBSP granulated sugar

• 1/2 tsp unsweetened natural cocoa powder

• 1 oz semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped

Cocoa Hazelnut Whipped Cream

• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream, cold

• 2 TBSP Frangelico liqueur

• 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar

• 1 TBSP unsweetened natural cocoa

Ganache Topping

• 6 oz semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped

• 3/4 cup heavy cream

DIRECTIONS:

1. Make the sugared cranberries and rosemary: Start the sugar cranberry and rosemary the night before. Place cranberries and rosemary in a large heatproof bowl. Set aside. In a medium saucepan set over medium heat, bring the water and 3/4 cup sugar to a simmer, whisking until the sugar has dissolved. Remove the pan from heat and allow to cool for 5 minutes. Pour the sugar syrup over the cranberries and rosemary and stir. Cover the bowl and set aside for 15 minutes. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cranberries and rosemary from the sugar syrup and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Allow to dry, uncovered, for 1 hour.

CONTINUED >

Pour remaining 1/2 cup (100g) sugar into a large bowl. Toss the cranberries and rosemary in the sugar, coating them all the way around. Place on a parchment paper—or silicone baking matlined baking sheet and let them dry uncovered for at least 1 hour at room temperature or in the refrigerator. Cover tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

2. Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Spray a 12x17inch baking pan with nonstick spray or grease with butter, so the parchment paper sticks. Then line it with parchment paper so the cake seamlessly releases. Spray or grease the parchment paper too. We want an extremely nonstick surface for this cake roll.

3. Make the cake: Whisk the cake flour, baking powder, and salt together in a medium bowl. Set aside until the next step. Using a hand mixer or a stand mixer fitted with whisk attachment, beat the egg whites and 1/2 cup (100g) sugar together on high speed for 4-5 minutes or until stiff peaks form. Transfer to another bowl. Using the same mixing bowl you just had the egg whites in (no need to clean it), add the egg yolks, remaining sugar, oil, and vanilla extract. Beat together on high speed for 3-4 minutes or until thickened and light in color.

4. Add half of the whipped egg whites into the egg yolk mixture. Beat on low speed for 10 seconds. Repeat with remaining egg whites and beat on low for 10 seconds. Add half of the flour mixture and beat on low or fold with a silicone spatula until combined. Repeat with remaining flour mixture. Avoid over-mixing and deflating those egg whites. Batter will be very light.

5. Spread batter evenly into prepared pan. Gently bang the pan on the counter a couple times to pop any air bubbles. Bake for 15-16 minutes or until the cake springs back when lightly poked with your finger. Cake will look a little bubbly on top when it’s done. That’s ok. Avoid over-baking cake because it will crack if over-baked. As the cake bakes, get started on the next step.

6. Prepare to roll: As the cake bakes, place a piece of parchment paper (larger than the cake) or a thin kitchen/tea towel flat on the counter. (Note: I find a kitchen towel is better to help prevent cracking.) Using a fine mesh sieve, dust parchment/towel with 3 Tablespoons confectioners’ sugar. Once the

cake comes out of the oven, quickly run a knife around the edges to loosen it. Immediately invert it onto the parchment/towel. Peel off the parchment paper that was on the bottom of the cake as it baked. Starting with the narrow end, begin tightly rolling the hot cake up with the parchment/towel. Do this slowly and gently. The cake will be warm. Allow the cake to cool completely rolled up in the parchment/towel. Feel free to place it in the refrigerator to speed it up, about 3 hours and up to 1 day.

7. During this time, make the meringue mushrooms: Preheat oven to 200°F (93°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. In a completely clean residue-free large glass or metal mixing bowl, using a handheld mixer or stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, beat the egg white, cream of tartar, and salt together on high speed until foamy, about 2 minutes—this is a small amount and the whisk on a stand mixer might not reach it, so whisk by hand until foamy if needed. With the mixer running on high speed, slowly add the sugar and beat until stiff glossy peaks form, about 2 more minutes. Snip off the end of a plastic bag or fit a round piping tip in a piping bag. I use and recommend Wilton 2A piping tip or any tip with around a 1/2 inch opening. Pipe quarter-sized circles (these will be

the round mushroom tops) and 1-inch tall cones (these will be the stems). You will have enough meringue batter for about 16 mushrooms. I usually only make 8-12 and discard leftovers, but feel free to make all 16. Using a moistened finger (just a dab of water is fine), smooth down any peaks. If desired, lightly dust mushroom tops with cocoa powder using a fine mesh sieve. Bake for 2 hours. Do not open the oven as the meringues bake. Turn off the oven after 2 hours and let the meringues sit inside the cooling oven for 20 minutes. Remove meringues from the oven and cool completely. When they’re just about cool, melt the 1 ounce of chocolate in a double boiler or use the microwave. If using the microwave, melt in 15 second increments, stopping and stirring between each until melted and smooth. Cool for 5-10 minutes. (Easier to adhere mushrooms if the melted chocolate is a bit cool.) Once meringues have cooled, use a flat spatula to remove them from the baking sheets. Dot a bit of chocolate onto the center of the bottom of a mushroom top. Adhere a mushroom stem to it. Place back on the baking sheet to set. If stems or tops still have a little peak, scrape off with a knife or your spatula, as you see me do in the video above. Leaning them against the rim is helpful if they keep toppling over. Repeat with remaining tops and stems to form mushrooms. Let chocolate cool and harden, about 1 hour.

CONTINUED >

8. Remove the cake roll from the refrigerator and allow to sit on the counter for a few minutes to warm up as you prepare the whipped cream.

9. Make the whipped cream: Using a hand mixer or a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, whip the heavy cream, Frangelico, and confectioners’ sugar on medium-high speed until medium to stiff peaks form, about 2-3 minutes.

10. Gently and very slowly unroll the cake. Spread whipped cream evenly on top, leaving about a 1/2 inch border around the cake. I like using a large or small offset spatula to spread. Sprinkle chopped hazelnuts on top. Gently roll the cake back up, without the parchment/towel this time. Roll it slowly. This part is messy. Carefully place on a cutting board. If the exterior of the cake looks moist, dust with a little cocoa powder. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes and up to 2 days before shaping and topping with ganache.

11. Make the ganache topping: Place chopped chocolate in a medium bowl. Heat the cream in a small saucepan until it begins to simmer. (Do not let it come to a rapid boil—that’s

too hot.) Pour over chocolate, then let it sit for 2-3 minutes to gently soften the chocolate. Slowly stir until completely combined and chocolate has melted. Ganache will be thin, so it has to thicken before using. Refrigerate, uncovered, for at least 30 minutes and up to 1 hour to thicken.

12. Remove rolled cake from the refrigerator. Diagonally slice a 3-4 inch section off one end. At this point, I usually place the cake on a serving platter. Place the angled side against a side of the roll, forming a branch. Slowly pour and spread thickened ganache all over the top and sides of cake. Feel free to leave the cut ends exposed (as you see in these photos) or spread ganache over the ends—there should be plenty of ganache to use. Use a fork to make textured lines resembling tree bark. Feel free to wipe the serving plate if ganache dripped all over.

13. Decorate with meringue mushrooms, sugared cranberries and rosemary, and a dusting of confectioners’ sugar just before serving.

14. Cover leftover cake and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Dine-In Tuesday-Sunday, 11AM-8PM

Supper Club Reservations-Only Dining Event, December 20 & December 31

Faire

256-213-7545

www.masondixonbakery.com

IG: @masondixonhsv

Tues - Sat 7am - 4pm

Winter Simmer Magic

ARTICLE BY ARSINE KALOUSTIAN

FILL YOUR HOME WITH THE COZY SCENTS OF TART CRANBERRIES, BRIGHT CITRUS, AND WARMING SPICES

Creating stovetop potpourri is a delightful way to indulge in the scents of the festive season. This Cranberry Orange Potpourri combines sparkling notes of fresh citrus and cranberries with nostalgic spices and woodsy herbs to create a welcoming atmosphere.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 cup fresh cranberries

• 1 orange, sliced

• 2 cinnamon sticks

• 1 teaspoon whole cloves

• 3 star anise

• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary

• 2-3 cups water (plus more as needed)

INSTRUCTIONS:

Combine cranberries, sliced orange, cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, and rosemary in a pot. Add 2-3 cups of water, ensuring the ingredients are submerged. Simmer on low heat, allowing the aromas to release. Check the water level, adding more as needed to prevent drying out. Simmer for several hours to fill your home with the scents of the season.

This potpourri is perfect for setting the holiday mood, whether you’re preparing for a family gathering or simply want your home to smell warm and inviting.

Connor Brookman, Qualifying Broker, Director of Luxury Sales

As the holiday season brings warmth and joy, we want to take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude to our clients, partners, and community for making this year truly memorable. Your trust and confidence have fueled our dedication to providing exceptional real estate experiences across North Alabama.

As the qualifying broker, I would like to personally thank you for being part of our Engel & Völkers family. With a shared commitment to excellence and a passion for real estate, we are inspired every day by the relationships we’ve built and the dreams we’ve helped make a reality.

As we look forward to 2026, our team remains dedicated to supporting your real estate journey, bringing our unique blend of local expertise, personalized service, and a true spirit of community to every step of the process.

I feel so fortunate to be surrounded by the greatest advisors and managers. Meeting their expectations motivates me to become better every day.

Wishing you a joyful holiday season and a prosperous new year. Here’s to another year of success together!

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

NOVEMBER 21ST-JANUARY 4TH

Skating in the Park

Big Spring Park | 6:00 PM

Huntsville Museum of Art hosts the 13th season of Ice skating in the park. Enjoy the lights of the Tinsel Trail and fun for the whole family while you skate the day (or night) away. Tickets available at entrance. hsvmuseum.org

DECEMBER 1ST-30TH

Christmas Card Lane Walking Nights

Tennessee River Greenway at Ditto Landing | 6:00 PM

Add Christmas Card Lane Walking Nights along the Tennessee River Greenway to your holiday activity list this year. Festive 4'x8' Christmas Cards designed by Huntsville's most creative companies, non-profits, families, and artists will line the mile-long Tennessee River Greenway. Create your own card at jotform.com

DECEMBER 2ND

Downtown Christmas Parade

Downtown Huntsville | 6:00 PM

The people cast their votes and the results have been tallied – the theme for the 2025 Huntsville Christmas Parade is “A Very Merry Christmas!" Line up early for fun with the whole family as local sponsors line the streets with festive floats and music.

DECEMBER 2ND

The Blind Reindeer Debut

The Blind Tiger | 6:00 PM

Pop in for a first look at the hottest holiday spot of the season. For one night only the doors of The Blind Reindeer will be open to all to see the magic before it becomes 21+ with reservations highly recommended. Reservations available at blindtigerhsv.com

DECEMBER 4TH

Gallery Opening for Anna Husband

The Little Green Store and Gallery | 5:00 PM

Join art enthusiasts as you mingle and shop original art by Anna Husband. As a local artist and owner of tattoo studio, Gilded Moth, Anna has a unique style that will leave you wanting to add to your art collection. Get your Christmas shopping done while you're there! thelittlegreenstore.net

DECEMBER 5TH-6TH

Candlelight Christmas

Burritt on the Mountain | 5:30 PM

Step back in time as the mountain is transformed by the soft glow of candlelight and the charm of time-honored holiday traditions. Guests will enjoy roasted chestnuts, stringing popcorn and cranberries, decorating cookies, and visiting with barnyard animals. Warm up with a taste of figgy pudding, gather around for heartwarming storytelling, and create your very own handmade ornament to take home. Members: $55 per carload. General Public: $70 per carload.

CONTINUED

DECEMBER 6TH

Lara Isbell and Stephanie Timmons Art Show

Huntsville City Lifestyle Office 3:00 PM - 7:00 PM

Enjoy a Saturday Pop Up of Art, Friendship and Flavor featuring two Alabama artists, Lara Isbell and Stephanie Timmons. These lifelong friends are serving up expressive paintings of oysters, interiors and tiny worlds that celebrate connection, creativity and joy. Enjoy appetizers and drinks and leave with your own work of art. 107 Northside Square 2nd Floor.

DECEMBER 11TH

The Nutcracker

Mark C. Smith Concert Hall | 6:00 PM

December heralds Huntsville Ballet's 55th production of  The Nutcracker, performed with the Huntsville Symphony Orchestra.  This time-honored tradition has become an enduring part of the holiday season. Purchase tickets at huntsvilleballet.org

DECEMBER 12TH-14TH

Christkindlmarket

The Orion Ampitheatre | 5:00 PM

Arts Huntsville and the Orion Amphitheater have teamed up again for Huntsville’s Christkindlmarket at the Orion Amphitheater. This unique shopping experience will feature over 60 artists showcasing a variety of mediums in December 2025. artshuntsville.com @theorionampitheatre

DECEMBER 13TH

Twickenham Spirit of Christmas Past Luminaries

Downtown Huntsville | 5:00 PM

If you want a peek at some of the Antebellum homes in Downtown Huntsville’s Twickenham Historic District, add this walking tour to your calendar.  Private residences along with the Weeden House Museum go “all out” with holiday décor and the entire district lines its streets with luminaries, giving the entire area a true Christmas glow.

DECEMBER 17TH-20TH

Sanders Family Christmas Play

Burritt on the Mountain | 7:00 PM

The musical comedy held at the Old Country Church features the Sanders family preparing for a Christmas Eve celebration. The audience is treated to over two-dozen Christmas carols and vintage hymns, along with funny stories from the family. Tickets information available at burrittonthemountain.com

DECEMBER 21ST

Candlelight: Christmas Carols on Strings

The Royal at Stovehouse | 6:30 PM

Immerse yourself in a live music event where a string quartet performs wellknown Christmas carols in a room lit by candles. The setlist includes classic carols such as "O Holy Night," "Carol of the Bells," and "Silent Night," performed by talented musicians. Tickets available at candlelightchristmascarols.com

Want to be featured?

1. KEF MUO PORTABLE BLUETOOTH STEREO SPEAKER-AVIQ aviqhsv.com | 1833 University Dr NW, Huntsville, AL 35801

2. CUSTOM 18K GOLD WAVE DIAMOND RING-EMMETT BLEVINS JEWELRY ebjewelers.com | 3414 Governors Dr SW, Suite 420, Huntsville, AL 35805

3. PAINT BY NUMBER SETDESIGN THEORY INTERIORS designtheory-interiors.com 2 Off Broadway St Unit 102 Huntsville, Alabama

4. RED LAND COTTON SHEETS redlandcotton.com | @redlandcotton

5. LOUIS VUITTON BUCKET BAG Louis Vuitton Cannes Reverse Monogram Black and Brown Bucket Bag queenbeeofbeverlyhills.com  2326 Whitesburg Dr, Huntsville, AL 35801

Home Is Where The Park Is

Yes, literally!

Imagine living INSIDE a 500-acre city park

Not near it. Not next to it. Inside it. At Hays Farm, nature isn’t just a backdrop—it’s your front yard, backyard, and everyday escape. With over 10 miles of scenic trails, lush green spaces, and a city-maintained 500-acre park, you get all the beauty without the upkeep.

But there’s more than just nature—Hays Farm is designed for the way you want to live, with resort-style amenities and two distinct neighborhoods offering a variety of lot sizes and price points. And when you’re ready for shopping, dining, or entertainment, everything is just minutes away.

Come experience life inside a 500-acre city park—yes, we really mean inside the park. Contact us today to find your dream home, perfectly nestled in nature at Hays Farm.