Indian Hill, OH December 2025

Merry & BRIGHT

The prestige of Hindman, Cowan’s and Freeman’s under one timeless name.

513.871.1670

cincinnati@freemansauction.com

5th Annual Coat Drive

Grab any new or gently used coats and drop them off to our office between December 1–31.

As proud members of the Indian Hill community, our Oyler Hines office sits in a prime, convenient location right on the edge of Indian Hill and Montgomery. We’re honored to serve the area as one of Cincinnati’s top real estate teams, committed to both exceptional service and community impact.

Drop Off Location: Oyler Hines & The Remington Room 7813 Ted Gregory Lane Cincinnati, OH 45242 Monday to Friday 8AM - 5PM

Mike Hines, Laura Wogen & Scott Oyler, REALTORS® #1 Real Estate Team in Cincinnati 513-756-2619 ∙ info@oylerhines.com

The Gift of Presence

The holiday season is here, bringing with it the sights, sounds and traditions that make this time of year so magical. For many of us, the holidays are a chance to recreate the joy we felt as children, whether it's through the twinkle of festive lights, the aroma of holiday baking or cherished family traditions.

In my family, one tradition we've held onto is gathering around the tree, throwing on the classics,  Bing Crosby Christmas or Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree, and coming together for our annual Tree Trimming Party. My parents began this tradition years ago at our Madeira home, and it has been a core memory for decades. Some years we'd pack 100 friends into our home, while others it was just a handful of family, but by golly, we always got the trees up!

These moments remind me of the magic of the season and the importance of creating joyful memories with loved ones. That presence will always trump presents.

This month, we've rooted out an amazing location that's perfect for doing just that. Brandywine Grove is nestled in the heart of Amish country and offers the perfect opportunity for a family getaway that's close enough for a weekend or big enough for a wedding. We've also highlighted the best Cincinnati has to offer in terms of local jazz artists—the perfect stocking stuffer for a musically inclined loved one. It's also virtually impossible to enjoy the holidays without a few candy canes, so we've taken you behind-the-scenes to Doscher’s Candies in Newtown. They’ve been producing candy canes since 1871!

While this season is joyful for many, it can also be a difficult time for those who are grieving, lonely or in need. In the spirit of the season, let's come together as a community to extend kindness and compassion to those who may be struggling. Whether it's donating to a local charity, volunteering your time or simply checking in on a neighbor, every act of generosity makes a difference.

May your holidays be filled with love, peace and the joy of giving.

Happy Holidays,

DEBORAH MEKENESE, PUBLISHER @INDIANHILL.CITYLIFESTYLE

Proudly serving Indian Hill, Mariemont, Madeira, Montgomery, Terrace Park & the Kenwood/Blue Ash Business District

December 2025

PUBLISHER

Deborah Mekenese

Deborah.Mekenese@CityLifestyle.com

EDITOR

Tera Michelson | Tera.Michelson@CityLifestyle.com

PUBLICATION MANAGER

Michelle Numann

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Brooke Griffin Farmer, Bill Furbee, A.J. Lape, Spencer Merk, Amanda Stout

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Ryan Back, Nate Barnabi, Jon Flood of Brown Dog

Films, Sarah Hone, Janie Jones, Steve Magas, Rick Merk, RF Graphics, Kandace Smith

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford

LAYOUT DESIGNER Amanda Schilling

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas

The power of

The Best Gift This Season: Staying True to Your Financial Plan

Holidays bring gatherings with family and friends, and with them, financial advice. It’s easy to get caught up in the noise, but those tips, trends, and “sure things” deserve a closer look before diving in! What matters most is whether the advice aligns with YOUR financial goals. While the idea might be great for them, you are likely to have different goals and factors to consider.

It’s important to focus on discipline, not impulse. Stay grounded in your strategy and lean on trusted advisors. This season, while others chase the next big win, give yourself the gift of focus to stay on course with the plan you have in place. Or contact Foster & Motley to develop a plan to help you meet your goals.

inside the issue

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

The Camargo Hunt celebrated its centennial year at the 2025 Hunter Trials, held in Clippinger Field in October. The all-day equestrian event showcased 100 years of the heritage of fox hunting with the spirit of competition in classic hunter-style jumps and a tailgating culinary contest. Horses, riders and spectators of all ages enjoyed the annual festivities.

Photography by RF Graphics

business monthly

Foster & Motley Celebrates Kenwood Office Expansion & Renovation

Foster & Motley Wealth Management continues to grow their business as they help clients grow their wealth. An expansion and renovation added 3,000 square feet to their existing space at 7755 Montgomery Road in Kenwood, including additional offices and workspace, and a renovated breakroom where they can host client events. All of these changes allow the experts at Foster & Motley to better serve their clients, helping them build the financial future for which they strive. FosterandMotley.com

Scan to read more

Indian Film Festival of Cincinnati Celebrates South Asian Independent Films

The Indian Film Festival of Cincinnati (IFFC) brings a diverse selection of independent films from South Asia to Greater Cincinnati, showcasing the talent of Indian filmmakers. The 2025 festival runs December 4-7, with showings at The Children’s Theatre, Fath Auditorium at Cincinnati Art Museum and the Mariemont Theatre. Enjoy the full experience with a Festival Pass or choose ticket packages that suit your schedule. Learn more and reserve tickets online. Facebook.com/IFFCincy/

The Hotel Rambler Now Open & Welcoming Guests in Montgomery

The Hotel Rambler is open and accepting overnight reservations and event bookings at 7711 Roosa Street in Montgomery. Planted in the heart of Montgomery Quarter, its location is central to Cincinnati happenings and offers well-appointed rooms with world-class amenities. The onsite bar and lounge, Sidecar, is a playful homage to the 1950s. Experience The Hotel Rambler’s charming MidCentury Modern décor and warm hospitality. The boutique hotel is a Tapestry Collection by Hilton property. 513.366.3518, TheHotelRambler.com

Enjoy views from every angle of The Forty Five, built at a 45-degree angle to maximize its scenic location.

COZY CABIN GETAWAY

Take a

Roadtrip to Relaxation with

a

Luxury Stay in Ohio’s Charming Amish Country

Leave the holiday hustle and bustle in your rearview mirror and get out of town. Experience the magic of presence over presents with a cozy cabin getaway to charming Amish country. Consider this your personal invitation to a roadtrip to relaxation and reconnection at a luxury stay resort just three and a half hours away in central Ohio. Brandywine Grove and Paradise Lake are close enough for a weekend stay and large enough to accommodate groups for special occasions like reunions, retreats or even a wedding.

Conceptualized and built by Owner David Graber, Brandywine Grove and Paradise Lake are his passion projects. The two luxury stay resorts each host six unique cabins, raised one by one under Graber’s watchful eye. Nestled onto their unique properties, the cabins’ unique modern rustic style is too posh to be called camping, but the setting inspires reconnection to nature and each other just the same. Inspired by the disconnection of Covid, this vibe was Graber’s vision.

“I had dreamed about doing this for several years, but just didn’t pull the trigger until Covid happened,” says Graber. “I was going through a pivotal time in my life–I had just gone through a divorce and kind of needed to start over. So, I started building.”

Dad of two, Graber was motivated by his relationship with his children. He is humbled and honored by repeated reviews that call their stays “unforgettable.” This is his primary goal–creating a place that forms lasting memories.

“We really try to create an experience, not just a stay,” explains Graber. “It’s the greatest compliment when people say that they’ll never forget this trip. That's so special—I want this with my own kids.”

Graber’s cabins are a return to the simple joys of nature without compromising creature comforts. The unique homes are spacious, yet cozy, with comfy beds, lavish baths and stateof-the-art kitchens in their signature modern rustic design. Wrap-around decks and porches offer indoor-outdoor living with stunning sunsets and scenic vistas. The only hint of camping is the blazing fire in the fireplace. Amenities include firepits, hot tubs, an oversized hammock and lots of outdoor seating. Smart televisions and high-speed internet bring all the comforts of home and more.

Brandywine Grove sits on 21-acres of rolling hills behind a privacy gate at the end of a lane. Across the pond, enjoy an entertaining herd of elk as it grazes a neighboring field. It’s located two miles from Sugarcreek, a charming Swissstyle village that hosts coffee shops, restaurants, pubs, boutique shopping, farm-fresh groceries and the world’s largest cuckoo clock.

Its sister resort, Paradise Lake, is no less luxurious, but a touch more rural, located 20 minutes further down a winding backroad on a 95-acre plot with two private lakes. Featuring four A-frame style and two additional larger cabins, the private accommodations in the outskirts of historic New Philadelphia are breathtaking in every season.

Graber’s newest labor of love is The Bunker at Brandywine Grove, a one-of-a-kind underground escape connected to an adjacent cabin by a tunnel. Book the two cabins together for large-group gatherings and special occasions. The combined rental sleeps 16 guests and is designed to entertain, featuring a sprawling patio, hot tub and pool, interior bar and two elegant suites.

Graber extends a personal invitation.

“Get away from your busy life and reconnect,” he says.

Give the gift of presence this holiday season and create your own lasting memories at these unique, luxury resort cabins. BrandywineGrove. com,ParadiseLakeOhio.com

Sweet Traditions

The holidays sparkle a little brighter in Cincinnati thanks to a family-owned candy maker that’s been delighting generations since 1871. Inside Doscher’s Candies, copper kettles still bubble, peppermint fills the air and the same hands-on craft that began more than a century ago continues to define one of America’s oldest sweet shops—proving that some traditions never lose their flavor.

“Claus Doscher created his first candy cane using the best tools known to man— his hands,” says owner Amy Gilligan, who runs the business with her husband, Kevin. “We still use the same recipe, same kettles and same techniques from pulling and kneading to striping and hooking. I truly think it’s our small-batch approach that has helped the business endure.”

Gilligan and her husband joined Doscher’s in 2015 after meeting longtime owner Greg Clark.

“We were looking for a small, family-run business to be part of,” Gilligan explains.

Together with her parents and two brothers, they partnered with Clark to grow the brand. The business later moved from downtown Cincinnati to Newtown, where they built a new facility, coffee shop and gift store. At the beginning of this year, they took full ownership—marking a new chapter in the company’s long, sweet history.

Today, a team of six candy makers keeps Claus’s legacy alive behind the factory walls, while a friendly front-of-house crew greets guests with coffee, confections and conversation. Best known for its handcrafted candy canes, Doscher’s candies are a holiday staple at Kroger and a fan favorite on QVC. The addition of Candy Buttons has drawn a whole new crowd.

“We purchased that brand from Necco in 2018,” Gilligan shares. “They’re a fun, happy and eye-catching candy that appeals to children—and brings back memories of penny candy.”

While honoring the past, the Gilligans continue to innovate with new candy cane flavors like grape, blue raspberry, s’mores and birthday cake, turning seasonal treats into year-round favorites.

“Growth is important, but we never compromise quality,” says Gilligan. “Our biggest priority is keeping the integrity of our products.”

For Gilligan, the sweetest part of her job is the heritage. “As someone who grew up here, it’s been fun to be so emotionally invested in a small piece of [Doscher’s] history,” she shares.

Moving locations has been equally rewarding.

“We feel like we exist in a Hallmark movie— the holidays here are special, the town is decorated to the nines and we all love to support one another’s businesses and families.”

Looking ahead, Doscher’s is working on new variations of its Pillows—a bite-sized version of a candy cane—and expanding its Candy Buttons line with fresh packaging and more local collaborations.

“We’ve [worked] with March First, Braxton Brewery, Tickled Sweet, the Candle Lab, Lucca, as well as several others to combine our flavors with their products,” Gilligan explains.

Satisfy your sweet tooth at Doscher’s Candies in Newtown for a festive experience, or unwrap the full range of goodies online.

Doscher's Candies | 6926 Main Street, Cincinnati | 513.381.8656 | DoschersCandies.com

"I had Amy and her crew do 4 of my bathrooms recently Her crew was fabulous and did great work. They were very conscientious and considerate of us They understood that we were living through the whole process. I love my bathrooms!!"

- Steph S

We Are the CCJO

Home-Grown Jazz

TOE-TAPPING STOCKING STUFFERS FOR MUSIC LOVERS

ARTICLE BY SPENCER MERK

PHOTOGRAPHY

BY

RYAN BACK, STEVE MAGAS & RICK MERK

Cincinnati has a proud lineage of jazz musicians that have left their mark on the music. Artists like Frank Foster and Rosemary Clooney called this city their home. Here is an introduction to the worldclass jazz scene in Cincinnati—a small sampling of some of the musicians carrying on that tradition today. Jazz up your holiday giving with these great listens.

Fans of big band music will love the first album from the Cincinnati Contemporary Jazz Orchestra led by Eric Lechliter. CincinnatiJazz.org

Golf

Are you an adventurous listener? Check out the inventors of “Garage Jazz,” Animal Mother. AnimalMotherUSA. bandcamp.com/music

Amazonas

Cincinnati legend Phil DeGreg enlists some heavy Brazilian musicians to bring you the sounds of the Amazon. PhilDeGreg.com

Christmas This Year

Need a Christmas jazz album? How about a record from one of the greatest singers alive, local artist Mandy Gaines. Facebook.com/p/Mandy-Gaines-Jazz-100055885905036/

Butterfly and the Smooth One

One can’t talk about jazz in Cincinnati without paying respect to the Blue Wisp Big Band—still playing together after 46 years! BlueWispBigBand.com

Maya

You’ve never heard anyone play the saxophone like Eric Wurzelbacher. Prepare to have your face melted and your mind blown. EricWurzelbacher.com

Spencer Merk

Spencer Merk is a trombonist, composer and arranger in Cincinnati. He has three albums out as a leader ( Last Place in a Bear Race, 2022; At Least, The Merk Brothers, 2023; Stories: Big and Small , 2025). In 2025, he was the trombonist for Kim Deal’s Nobody Loves You More tour, playing across the U.S. and Europe. SpencerMerkMusic.com

TABLE Talk

Bailey Family Catering Brings Family Together Around the Holiday Table

“Ours was always the house for entertaining, both for our friend group and our children's friends groups,” says DeAnna Bailey-Sanchez, owner and creative director of Bailey Family Catering in Madeira. “So after a couple of years of doing small, word-of-mouth things, I became serious about wanting to pursue the catering business.”

It was at her first wedding to trained chef, Ariston Bailey, that the couple were encouraged by friends and their wedding planner to create a catering business. That was in 2013.

The next year, Ariston left his full-time job to do just that. Then, that July, he suffered a pulmonary embolism.

“We had our biggest event to date scheduled the Sunday after his funeral,” BaileySanchez shares, “and I pulled it off. I had never cooked for 150 people before that day. But that day, I did. Over the next several months, I just did the next thing, and the next thing, and the next thing, and slowly kind of fell in love with catering.”

Today, Bailey Family Catering employs eight full-time individuals and also staffs about 60 part-time bartenders and servers.

“As a family-centered business, I feel like the community is extremely supportive of not only businesses within the community, but other families, too,” she says. “So, we love our community!”

Now is a great time to get in touch, BaileySanchez points out. It’s party season and Bailey Family Catering can be in high demand.

“The sooner the better, to ensure that you’re getting the first crack at important dates,” she says. “Plan your events with confidence, knowing that you’ve locked in quality service and exceptional food.”

Let Bailey-Sanchez take care of your family as if it were her own. Graduations, weddings and corporate events are just around the corner.

“We can allow you to be at your own party,” Bailey-Sanchez says. “You won’t have to be concerned with the setup or setting out of any of the dishes. Our servers handle everything, from setup to cleanup.”

From a full holiday spread to a cozy family dinner, Bailey Family Catering will give you a delicious reason to gather this season.

7896 Camargo Road, Madeira | 513.873.3900 | BaileyFamilyCatering.com

REALearning—

Relational. Experiential. Authentic. It’s learning that brings education to life at Moeller. Rooted in research on how young men learn best, it goes beyond the classroom into hands-on experiences that spark growth and leadership. From project-based courses in the Burns Innovation Hub to mission trips, athletics, and 40+ co-curriculars, our students don’t just study—they practice, discover, and lead. The result? Confident leaders, creative problem solvers, and remarkable men ready for the future.

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'TIS THE SEASON for Gratitude

LEARN WHY THANK YOU ETIQUETTE MATTERS & HOW TO CREATE A THOUGHTFUL NOTE

ARTICLE BY AMANDA STOUT PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

When Founder and President of the Cincinnati Etiquette & Leadership Institute, LLC (CELI),  Tiffany L. Adams worked in corporate America, she regularly witnessed missed opportunities for authenticity, self-awareness and self-restraint that prevented people from excelling at building solid interpersonal relationships. Observing these gaps and blunders inspired her to get certified, found her business and empower others with this timeless, critical skill set.

“There needed to be a resurgence in professionalism, power, polish and poise, but with a modern business model,” explains Adams. “High-caliber communication and seamlessly conducting yourself with competency, composure and credibility elevates your game both professionally and personally.”

The holiday season is the perfect time to focus on the excellent communication and relationship-building skills that are the basis for success in business and strong community connections.

“When someone goes the extra mile to make you feel special, that’s the time to celebrate their generosity of time and thought with a lovely written gesture,” Adams advises. “Be swift in expressing your gratitude with specificity, warmth and enthusiasm.”

TOP 5 THANK YOU ETIQUETTE TIPS

Here is Adams’ guide to express gratitude that will set you apart with high distinction.

1. Email/Text or handwritten note? Thank you emails are perfectly acceptable in business, but handwritten notes convey a higher standard. A handwritten note is rare and can be cherished forever, whereas email and text thank yous are commonplace and deletable. Consider the importance of high-quality, personalized stationery. Quality paper reflects

“When someone goes the extra mile to make you feel special, that’s the time to celebrate their generosity of time and thought with a lovely written gesture.”

professionalism and attention to detail, while enhancing the tactile experience, making your recipient feel valued.

2. Begin with a proper salutation: The time-honored, “Dear Mr. Smith,” always impresses. Avoid using “Hey” and never refer to an adult by their first name unless they have permitted you to do so more than once.

3. Be specific with your gratitude: Describe the gift you were given in detail. If it's a monetary gift, avoid saying the dollar amount and instead mention how much you appreciated their generosity.

4. Explain why you liked the gift and how you will use it : Share how their gift made you feel in your heart. There’s a big difference between saying, “Thanks for the great frame,” versus “Thank you for the lovely silver frame that will be a nice reminder of you each day in our kitchen.”

Finish strong with an appropriate closing: Avoid signing off with “Thanks.” Instead, use “With Appreciation,” “Sincerely” or “Gratefully Yours.” Be prompt in sending the note within three days for emails, one week for business and two weeks for social occasions. Minimize sending thank-you notes via text, which can be convenient but also perceived as rushed.

TIFFANY L. ADAMS

Following more than 15 years in the financial services industry and nonprofit sector, Tiffany L. Adams founded the Cincinnati Etiquette & Leadership Institute, LLC (CELI). For over a decade, CELI has provided essential professional conduct and leadership training. Adams is a certified Corporate Etiquette & International Protocol Expert, consultant, public speaker and author. Through the fresh lens of modern business etiquette, her Amazon bestseller, Polished: The Guide to Excellence for the Modern Professional, offers strategies, tools, and real-life applications to position readers as exceptional ambassadors for themselves. A thoughtful holiday gift that keeps on giving, it is available everywhere books are sold.

EtiquettePlease.com | info@etiquetteplease.com

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE

JONES

Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, these holiday drinks are guaranteed to bring a little extra cheer to your cup.

HOLIDAY COCKTAILS & COZY CREATIONS

BOURBON VANILLA BEAN

HOT CHOCOLATE

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

• 2 cups whole milk

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

INGREDIENTS:

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

• 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder

• 2 tbsp sugar or maple syrup

• 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract

• Pinch of sea salt

• 2 oz bourbon

Topping: 4 large marshmallows

Optional garnish: grated dark chocolate, whipped cream, cinnamon

INSTRUCTIONS:

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

Optional: Add a pinch of cinnamon and cayenne for spicy depth

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

SPICED CINNAMON RUM FLIP

A luscious holiday cocktail with warming spices, rich texture, and a beautiful cinnamon garnish.

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 oz dark or spiced rum

• 3/4 oz cinnamon simple syrup

• 1 oz heavy cream

• 1 whole egg

• Dash of ground nutmeg

• Dash of vanilla extract

Garnish: cinnamon stick and a light dusting of nutmeg or cinnamon

INSTRUCTIONS:

Make Cinnamon Simple Syrup:

Combine 1/2 cup sugar, 1/2 cup water, and 2 cinnamon sticks in a saucepan. Simmer for 10 mins, let cool, and strain. Store in the fridge.

Add rum, cinnamon syrup, cream, egg, vanilla, and a pinch of nutmeg to a shaker. Shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds to emulsify the egg. Strain into a coupe or stemmed glass like the one in your photo. Top with a cinnamon stick across the rim and a dusting of nutmeg or cinnamon.

Optional: Add 1/2 oz chilled espresso for a coffee kick.

CONTINUED >

HOLIDAY SPICED GINGERBREAD LATTE

A warm, frothy, and festively spiced drink perfect for winter nights.

INSTRUCTIONS:

INGREDIENTS:

For the latte:

• 1 shot of espresso

• (or 1/2 cup strong

• brewed coffee)

• 3/4 cup milk

• 2 tbsp gingerbread syrup

• Whipped cream

For the gingerbread syrup:

• 1/2 cup water

• 1/2 cup brown sugar

• 1 tbsp molasses

• 1/2 tsp ground ginger

• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

• 1/4 tsp nutmeg

• 1/8 tsp ground cloves

• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Optional toppings:

• Ground cinnamon or nutmeg for dusting

• Marshmallow

• Crushed gingerbread cookie around the rim or on top

Make the gingerbread syrup:

In a small saucepan, combine water, brown sugar, molasses, and spices. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract, and let cool. Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Prepare the drink:

Brew your espresso or strong coffee. Heat and froth your milk. In your glass, add 2 tablespoons of the gingerbread syrup. Pour in the espresso, then the steamed milk, stirring gently to combine. Spoon frothed milk or whipped cream on top. Dust with cinnamon or nutmeg.

Optional: Rim the glass with crushed gingerbread cookie crumbs for extra flair.

FESTIVE CRANBERRY

GIN FIZZ

A bright, elegant cocktail with a foamy top and a hint of holiday spirit.

• 2 oz gin

• 1 oz cranberry juice

• 3/4 oz lemon juice

• 1/2 oz simple syrup

• 1 egg white

Optional: splash of sparkling water or club soda

Garnish: fresh rosemary or thyme sprig

INSTRUCTIONS:

In a cocktail shaker, combine gin, cranberry juice, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white. Shake vigorously for about 20 seconds to create the frothy top. Double strain into a chilled coupe glass to get that smooth, foamy top. Add a small splash of sparkling water if you’d like a bit of fizz. Gently place a sprig of rosemary or thyme on top of the foam.

A Sample Of Recently Sold Properties in and around Indian Hill

DECEMBER 1ST - 28TH

Cincinnati Christkindlmarkt

Smale Riverfront Park, Downtown Cincinnati

Celebrate the magic of the season at Cincinnati Christkindlmarkt, an all-ages German-American festival with a European vibe, yet local holiday theme. Don’t miss the food, beverages, shopping, sparkling lights and entertainment at this family-friendly affair, held outside the Moerlein Lager House on the Schmidlapp Event Lawn & Stage in Smale Riverfront Park. Find the schedule and parking details online. CincinnatiChristkindlmarkt.com

TAILORING AN Elevated Lifestyle

DECEMBER 5TH - 28TH

Light in the Forest

Cincinnati Nature Center at Rowe Woods, 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford Step into a world where twinkling lights, nature’s beauty and holiday magic come together to create an unforgettable winter wonderland. This magical 1-mile walking tour features enchanting ponds, fields and woodlands illuminated with stunning seasonal delights. Enjoy all-new light installations, interactive displays, children’s activities, live music, a cozy bonfire, food trucks and much more. Advance tickets are required—available online.  CincyNature. org/program/light-in-the-forest

DECEMBER 5TH

Madeira Holiday Open House

Downtown Madeira | 10:00 AM

Enjoy one-day deals, holiday sale kickoffs and more as you shop, eat and play in Madeira. Shop hundreds of unique gift ideas for your holiday needs. Find a map of local businesses, learn more and sign up for special deals online. MadeiraChamber.com/holidays

CONTINUED

DECEMBER 5TH & 6TH

Handel’s Messiah

Cincinnati Music Hall, Downtown Cincinnati | 7:30 PM

Join the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, the May Festival Chorus and an all-star cast of soloists for Handel’s Messiah, featuring the “Hallelujah Chorus,” a cherished holiday tradition. Directed by Music Director Cristian Macelaru. Tickets are available online. CincinnatiSymphony.org

DECEMBER 7TH

The Annual Village Christmas Party

Little Red Schoolhouse, Indian Hill | 2:00 PM

Bring your family and join your neighbors for a delightful afternoon at the Historical Society’s 44th Annual Village Christmas Party. Make merry with the music, juggler, magician, and of course, Santa! 2-4 p.m. IndianHill.org

DECEMBER 10TH

Outdoor Fashion Show

The Barn, 6980 Cambridge Avenue, Mariemont | 6:00 PM

Adventure Crew and longtime partner Roads Rivers and Trails (RRT) host their sixth Outdoor Fashion Show, 6-9 p.m. Join the evening of fashion, purpose and outdoor inspiration as RRT showcases the latest in sustainable outdoor apparel. Enjoy shopping, light bites and beverages. Tickets available online. Proceeds benefit Adventure Crew’s mission to connect city teens with nature.  AdventureCrew.org, RoadsRiversandTrails.com

Wellness Corner

BRING WARMTH TO YOUR HOLIDAY TABLE WITH A BRIGHT, COZY BLEND OF CRANBERRY, APPLE & MAPLE

There’s something so special about slowing down this time of year—gathering around the table, lighting a few candles and sharing something made with love. This Cranberry Apple Relish feels like December to me: bright, cozy and full of comfort. With hints of maple, orange and spice, it adds warmth and color to any holiday table—the kind of recipe that reminds us the sweetest moments are often the simplest ones.

Holiday Cranberry Apple Relish

Servings: 8–10

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

• 12 oz. (about 3 cups) fresh cranberries, rinsed

• 2 small honeycrisp or fuji apples, peeled, cored and diced (about 2 cups)

• ½ cup pure maple syrup (or honey)

• ¼ cup fresh orange juice (about 1 medium orange)

• 1 tablespoon orange zest

• ¼ cup light brown sugar or monk fruit brown sugar substitute

• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 2 tablespoons chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

• Pinch of sea salt

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the cranberries, apples, maple syrup, brown sugar (or monk fruit), orange juice, orange zest, cinnamon and sea salt.

2. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring often. The cranberries will begin to pop, and the apples will soften.

3. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla and chopped nuts, if using. The mixture will thicken as it cools.

4. Allow the relish to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.

Serve alongside roast turkey, pork tenderloin or baked brie, or use as a topping for oatmeal, yogurt or leftover turkey sandwiches.

Photo by Sarah Hone

About Brooke Griffin Farmer: Brooke Griffin Farmer is a USA Today best-selling author, entrepreneur, former Cincinnati Bengals cheerleader and Fitness Universe champion. She’s passionate about helping women live well—body, mind and spirit. Brooke is the creator of Move Pray Love, a podcast and lifestyle brand that blends faith, food and wellness. She lives in Cincinnati with her husband and children.   OurFarmerHouse.com | @BrookeGriffinFarmer

An Unforgettable Christmas

Join us as we celebrate an unforgettable Christmas at James Free! Discover our exquisite designer collections at this year’s holiday party .

MONTGOMERY

Wednesday, Dec. 3rd

10am - 7pm | cocktails 4pm-8pm 9555 Main St. Montgomery, OH 45242

Please RSVP by Dec. 1st cincyreceptionist@jamesfree.com 513-793-0133

DAYTON

Thursday, Dec. 4th

10am - 7pm | cocktails 4pm-8pm 3100 Far Hills Ave. Dayton, OH 45429

Please RSVP by Dec. 1st receptionist@jamesfree.com 937-298-0171

Enjoy 15% SAVINGS when you buy directly from the featured designers! Roberto Coin, Fope, Mikimoto, JB Star, Marco Bicego, Goshwara, and Charles Krypell (In Person),