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D E C E M B E R 2 02 3

Custom Homes Barnh o us e is a fa m i l y- ow n e d d e si g n + b ui l d co m pany fo cuse d o n n ew co nstr uc ti o n- f rom tra dit io nal s t ick- b u i l t o r m o d i f i e d t i m be r f ram e h o m e s to p re - e n g i n e e re d ste e l o r p o l e ba rn struc t ure s . S pe cia l i z i n g i n m o d e rn fa rm h o m e s, Barnh o use har ve sts o l d barns to uti l i ze recla im ed tim be rs an d ba rn b oa rd to p rovi d e a n e nri chi n g co nte m p o rar y co untr y fe e l . A f te r b ui l din g a fo un dat io n o n o p e n co m m u n i c a t i o n an d h o n e sty, Barnh o use h e l p s b ri n g v i si o ns to life.

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

Happy Holidays!

December 2023 PUBLISHER

Wade Kotarba | wade.kotarba@citylifestyle.com EDITOR

Angela Broockerd | angela.broockerd@citylifestyle.com

This is my favorite time of year. I love everything about December: the lights, the festivities around the city, gathering with family near and far, holiday traditions and the magic that the season brings. I value this time even more now that my kids are getting older, and I know our time as an immediate family all living under one roof is limited. My kids are big on traditions, so the list of Christmas festivities on their list of things to do this season is long. I am so thankful that they value family time and some of the traditions that we started years ago when they were very young. I remember when they were little, at times some of the holiday memories I was trying to help create seemed chaotic and messy, and I felt like I failed so many times at making that perfect magical moment. Now, all these years later, I realize that it didn’t need to be perfect. Despite toddler meltdowns, getting sick during the holidays, burnt Christmas cookies for Santa, failed gifts, gingerbread houses that imploded and didn’t hold together (until I discovered the magic of using hot glue), crazy family get-togethers, kids fighting, forgetting to write Santa letters, and all the other mishaps that can and have happened, the memories made between all of that is special, and the chaos and imperfect, messiness of being a family and making memories is part of it. I can only imagine how my parents must have felt with my family of 12. I know there had to be many moments of craziness and complete chaos among the magic of it all. However, I don’t remember it that way, and I know my children don’t either. I know that the holidays can be so difficult for some to get through. My mom is a hospice nurse, and listening to her worry about the families of her patients that she has lost during the holiday season has given me perspective on how this time of year can be heart-wrenching for some, especially if they are alone or suffering a new loss. I also know that there are so many with financial hardships, and that there are families out there that want to give their kids a Christmas, but they just can’t. Our community is so good at taking care of one another and meeting the needs of those suffering around us. Let’s all remember to take care of one another during this season. If you know of a family or individual in need this season, nominate them in our annual Giving Campaign. Details on our Giving Campaign and how to nominate someone can be found on page 36. I hope you all have a wonderful holiday season with those you love.

ANGEL A BROOCKERD, EDITOR @JOHNSONCOUNT YCIT Y LIFEST Y LE

Scan QR code to visit our Instagram C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E .C O M /J O H N S O N C O U N T Y |

CONTR IBUTING WR ITER S

Angela Broockerd, Allison Swan, Mindy Hargesheimer CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER S

Janie Jones, Mindy Hargesheimer

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster

Learn how to start your own publication at: citylifestyle.com//franchise Proverbs 3:5-6 Johnson County City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Johnson County area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Johnson County City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources

L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

“ Aspiria has been a significant upgrade from our previous headquarters. With our employees return to the office after the pandemic we made a conscious decision to upgrade our office environment. The amenities, such as the gym, covered parking and being centrally located also contributed to our decision to move to the Aspiria campus. Also, given the types of clients that we have, we wanted to have a facility that we were proud to invite customers to and be a reflection of how the company has grown over the last couple of years. We have a very modern workplace now.” Brandon Spear Chief Executive Officer TreviPay

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DECEMBER 2023

inside the issue The Holidays & Giving Issue

F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

12 Clothology

Lifestyle Letter

Business Monthly

Artist’s Palette B EAU T Y

How To HO ME + DES I GN

Home Update HO ME + DES I GN

Culinary Creations FO O D + B E V E R AG E

Must See ENT ERTA I NMENT

Giving Back LI FE + C U LT U R E

Events

Happy Hour FO O D + B EV ER AG E

Celebrate the holidays with festive attire

18 Tis the Season

Create your own DIY holiday decor

26 Holiday Brunch

No hassle, make-ahead Christmas breakfast recipes

36 The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign

This Giving Campaign is all about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season

O N T H E C OV E R

Photography: Janie Jones Photography Photo by Janie Jones

Home for the Holidays!

Bringing Families Together, One Home at a Time

There’s nothing quite like the anticipation of welcoming loved ones back home for the holidays. At Compass, we understand the significance of family traditions and the heartwarming feeling that comes when gathering under one roof. If your holiday wishes find you dreaming of a new home, one where loved ones gather, cherished memories are made, and traditions are passed down for generations to come, we would love to help. Let’s make your holiday wish come true!

HALEY EPPS REALTOR® Compass Sports and Entertainment Division M: 913.558.5958 O: 913.382.6711 haley.epps@compass.com haleyeppsteam.com Haley Epps is a real estate licensee affiliated with Compass Realty Group, a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. Compass Realty Group offers no guarantee of results.

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DECEMBER 2023

Image Studios has over 30 beauty professionals! Hair Stylists & Barbers | Lashes | Skin Botox | Massage | Wax & Sugaring

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Celebrate the cold weather by getting some Thai heat at Bamboo Penny's. Whether dining next to the fire in the Polynesian inspired rooftop venue, the Bamboo Room or joining friends the main dining room, Bamboo Penny's always lets you dial up the heat just the way you like it. Bamboo Penny’s new Fall/Winter Menu highlights Chef Penny Mufuka’s seasonal spin on traditional Thai dishes. Live music Thursday - Saturday in The Bamboo Room.

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W W W. L E A W O O D . D E N T A L

Clothology | IMAGE 1

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES The holidays are here, and with that comes a packed schedule of events and activities. Clothology:135 is very excited about the Holiday and Winter fashion season. This season will show a multitude of fabrics that can be styled from casual to an elevated elegance. It will be fun to utilize velvet, velour, sparkles, leather, and even faux fur by mixing and matching to find the perfect look for your events and personal style. Clothology:135 is a multi-generational boutique, and their team is always ready to help with all your personal styling needs. They strive to live by their motto “the study of your style” as they know when you look good, you feel good.

A RT IST ’S PA LE T T E | BEAUTY

| IMAGE 4

| IMAGE 2 | IMAGE 3 | IMAGE 1

Pull on sequin/lined pant by Yest from the Netherlands. Red “Merry” sentiment sweater by Just Madison with white button down blouse by Lysse’. Tartan plaid bead | IMAGE 2

White faux fur thigh-length jacket from Molly Bracken combined with a sequin hot pink beanie. “Merry and Bright” sweater from Metric | IMAGE 3

Deep blue textured velour blazer and matching pant from Molly Bracken. | IMAGE 4

Multi color art deco sequin dress with back V and velvet back bow from Just Me. Faux fur wrap by Bella Chic.

CONTINUED >

D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/J OH N S O N C O UN T Y

| IMAGE 5

Off the shoulder and contour fit gala sequin maxi dress with sweetheart neckline | IMAGE 6

Black puffer vest by Mauritius. Red “Holly Jolly” sentiment sweater. Black faux leather jegging by RD International. | IMAGE 7

White faux fur thigh-length jacket from Molly Bracken combined with a sequin hot pink beanie. “Merry and Bright” sweater from Metric | IMAGE 8

Deep blue textured velour blazer and matching pant from Molly Bracken.

| IMAGE 6

A RT IST ’S PA LE T T E | BEAUTY

| IMAGE 7

| IMAGE 5 | IMAGE 8 D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/J OH N S O N C O UN T Y

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D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/J OH N S O N C O UN T Y

DIY Wreath and Ornament Clusters Winter Wreath // Materials

// Materials • • • • • • • • • • •

pruning scissors grapevine wreath form 22 gauge wire wire snips hot glue gun hot glue 3 types of fresh cut greens (you can also use artificial and have a wreath that will last you year after year!) fresh eucalyptus pinecones bells or ornaments ribbon

ARTICLE BY ERICA BIBB PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

H OW TO | HOM E + D ESIGN

// Step Two

// Step One

Trim greens removing any bald spots and extra length. Lengths of greens should vary between 5-10”. Create clusters with the greens and eucalyptus, using all 3 of the greens. Create the cluster and then wrap the cluster with the 22 gauge wire onto the grapevine wreath form (starting at the top of your wreath), making sure that the wire is tight. Wrap 5-7 times to ensure everything will stay in place. Do not cut the wire. Set to the side to use for the next cluster.

// Step Two

Continue adding fresh green clusters going down your wreath and slightly alternating the angle the greens

// Step Three

are pointing. Finish your final cluster and give yourself 3-4” of additional wire to twist close at the back of the wreath to finish and secure.

// Step Three

Place ribbon at the end of the clusters to hide any ribbon. We tied a knot with the ribbon around the wreath and then wrapped several times around the wreath.

// Step Four

varying lengths, so the bells or ornaments can hang at different levels. Tie the 3 ribbons together and then tie as one onto your wreath. Add desired number of pinecones and put in place with hot glue.

// Pro Tip

Keep taking a step back as you construct your wreath and keep in mind that sometimes less is more. Don’t be afraid to make edits and trust your eye!

Tie on ornaments, bells, or pinecones to hang from the wreath. This is optional, you may just want to add a pretty bow or even keep it as is at this point! When tying on the extra baubles, remember to cut your ribbon at CONTINUED >

D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/J OH N S O N C O UN T Y

Ornament Clusters // Materials

// Materials

• 22 gauge wire • ornaments of at least 3 varying shades and sizes • wire snips

// Step One & Two

// Step One

Cut desired length of wire for a cluster, about 24”, Add an ornament about 4” from one end of the wire and twist the wire around the top of the ornament to provide a base for your cluster. Twist about 5 times. You should still have about 4” of wire at the end, you will need it to tie onto your garland, tree, or wreath.

// Step Two

Continue adding ornaments to the wire, alternating sizes and colors until you have 4-6” of wire remaining.

H OW TO | HOM E + D ESIG N

// Step Three

Twist the remaining wire around the top of your final ornament 5 times to secure all of your ornaments in place. Making sure to leave at least 4” of wire in place at the end in order to tie onto garland, tree, or wreath.

// Step Four

Use the ends of the wire to attach to your holiday item of choice!!

// Step Four

// Pro Tip

Keep your clusters to the 24” length to keep from getting too heavy and/or having ornaments pop off. Ornaments will pop off at times, they will still look gorgeous and you can always glue the ornament back onto to the top. Simple, gorgeous, and impactful! For more inspiration visit www.porchandpatioco.com

D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/J OH N S O N C O UN T Y

ARTICLE BY ALLISON SWAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

JKT Redbud Designs

H OM E U P DAT E | HOM E + DE S I GN

From the creative bond with her mother, extensive home renovations, and the exciting launch of JKT Redbud Designs, Joyce Twedt’s journey in the world of design is both impressive and inspiring. Having grown up with a profound appreciation for interior design, her early years were filled with the joy of home makeovers, a passion passed down from her incredibly talented mother. By the age of nine, she was already mastering wallpapering, with her mother as her guide. This natural talent blossomed over the years, and finding a partner-in-craft in her husband, Colin, they embarked on renovating two homes. CONTINUED >

D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/J OH N S O N C O UN T Y

Taking a bold leap of faith at 50, Joyce transitioned from her position at Hallmark Cards headquarters to pursue her dream full-time. Her home in Leawood, previously owned by her in-laws, showcases her unique design flair and acts as a standing testament to her skills, doubling up as her design portfolio. It’s a beautiful marriage of family legacy and innovative design. But her expertise doesn’t stop at interiors—with a knack for enhancing exteriors, Twedt offers comprehensive design packages encompassing front door and porch updates, paint color reviews, and landscaping advice. Additionally, her seasonal touches come alive with her holiday decorating services. Whether it’s a full-service Christmas revamp or sprinkling a festive touch here and there, she ensures the holiday spirit is alive and shining. Her unwavering belief in pretty and practical designs sets her apart from other designers. She perfectly melds high-end pieces with affordable ones, ensuring style doesn’t strain the budget.

H OM E U P DAT E | HOM E + DE S I GN

Every project commences with a detailed two-hour consultation, laying the foundation for a space brimming with potential. She’s a master at integrating bold statement pieces that add her signature sparkle. “I am always looking for ways to elevate the design and add just the right sophisticated touch without being over the top,” says Twedt. “I believe a small update can freshen up a space dramatically. Attainable elevated design is my MO—classic yet simple with bold accents.” What’s exciting is the next generation’s involvement in the business. Joyce’s 21-year-old daughter, Katie, is studying interior design at K-State and is set to become her business partner. Her fresh approach and perspective promise to bring new dimensions to the business. To embark on your own design journey with JKT Redbud Designs, reach out through email, phone, or DM on her Instagram: @jkt.redbud.designs.

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Holiday

BRUNCH

The holidays are filled with family gatherings. Enjoy these easy, make-ahead recipes to simplify your holiday breakfast and are sure to impress your guests.

Hearty Breakfast Casserole INGREDIENTS • • • • • • • • • •

8 eggs 2-3 cups torn bread pieces 3 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream 1 pound breakfast sausage, browned 1 pound bacon, cooked and crumbled 2 cups shredded cheese of choice 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes 1 teaspoon rosemary 1 teaspoon thyme Salt and pepper

DIRECTIONS 1. Spray 9 X13 pan with cooking spray. Layer torn bread pieces on the bottom of the pan to cover completely. Sprinkle 1 cup cheese over the bread. 2. Whisk eggs and heavy whipping cream and red pepper flakes salt and pepper. Pour mixture into the baking dish. Add bacon and sausage on top of egg mixture. 3. Top with remaining cheese and sprinkle with rosemary and thyme. Bake at 350 for 35 minutes or until the center is done.

C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE

Monkey Bread INGREDIENTS • 18-20 Rhodes white frozen rolls • 1 regular box of cook and serve butterscotch pudding • ½ cup chopped pecans • 6 tablespoons butter, melted • ¾ teaspoons cinnamon • ½ cup brown sugar

DIRECTIONS 1. Grease a bundt pan with non-stick cooking spray. Sprinkle chopped pecans around the bottom of the bundt pan. Next, place frozen rolls in the pan, evenly spreading them out. Sprinkle the rolls with the dry pudding mix. 2. Melt butter in a separate container, and add cinnamon and brown sugar and stir. Pour butter and sugar mixture over the rolls. Cover with saran wrap that is sprayed with non-stick cooking spray. Place in a cool oven overnight with the light off. 3. Bake the next morning at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. Let stand for 5 minutes and then turn the bundt pan over onto a serving plate and gently pry out of the pan, allowing time for the pecans and toppings to drip on top. Enjoy!

Hashbrown Bites INGREDIENTS • 20-ounce bag refrigerated hash brown potatoes • 3/4 cup green onions, sliced • ½ cup grated parmesan cheese • 1 teaspoon sea salt • ½ teaspoon pepper • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional • 2 tablespoons olive oil • ¼ cup pepper jack cheese, optional

DIRECTIONS 1. Spray muffin tins with non-stick cooking spray. Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir. Evenly add mixture to each muffin tin and lightly press down.

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

2. Bake at 400 degrees for 45 minutes. These can be made in advance and reheated for convenience. CONTINUED >

D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/J OH N S O N C O UN T Y

Croissant Lemon Berry Delight INGREDIENTS Casserole • 6 large croissants (from the bakery) sliced into cubes • 3 cups mixed berries • 1 package cream cheese, softened • 1 cup sugar • 5 eggs at room temperature • 2 cups half and half at room temperature • 3/4 tablespoon vanilla extract • 3/4 tablespoon lemon juice Lemon Glaze • 2 ounces cream cheese, softened • 1 tablespoon butter, softened • 1 cup powdered sugar • 1 ½ tablespoons lemon juice • 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract

DIRECTIONS 1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and toast the cubed croissants on a baking dish for 10 minutes. 2. In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs, half and half, lemon juice and vanilla and mix until smooth. 3. Place the toasted croissants into a greased 9 X 13 pan and layer with 1 ½ cups berries. Pour custard mix on top and then add the remaining berries on top. Cover with foil and refrigerate overnight. 4. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and bake, covered for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 15 minutes. 5. Set aside and make glaze by adding all ingredients to a bowl and mixing until smooth. Drizzle over the casserole and sprinkle with powdered sugar if desired.

C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE

Eggnog Martini INGREDIENTS • • • • • •

1 ounce vodka 1 ounce Kahlua 1 ounce brewed coffee cooled 3 ounces eggnog, 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract Dash of cinnamon

DIRECTIONS 1. Add all ingredients together in a shaker and mix. 2. Pour into a glass and serve over the rocks.

Gourmet Hot Chocolate Add a little extra pizazz to your hot chocolate by using half and half instead of milk, sprinkle with cinnamon and top with a snowman made out of marshmallows and pretzel sticks.

INGREDIENTS • • • •

1 cup powdered sugar ½ cup of cocoa powder 1 teaspoon cinnamon, optional Milk or half and half

DIRECTIONS 1. Add all ingredients to a bowl and stir. For individual servings, mix ½ cocoa mix with ½ cup milk. 2. Add desired amount of cocoa mix with milk to desired sweetness. Top with whipped cream or marshmallows.

D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/J OH N S O N C O UN T Y

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Holiday Events and Festive Happenings ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY MINDY HARGESHEIMER

It’s the most wonderful time of year to soak up the sights, sounds, and sensational feelings of the holiday season! With some old favorites to keep up the festive family traditions and some new additions to have yourself the merriest little Christmas, there’s no place like our neck of the woods to celebrate with some good old-fashioned pop-up bars, musicals, festivals, workshops and so much more! Here are my 2023 holiday season recommendations to have a magical end to the year!

LUMINARY WALK - OVERLAND PARK ARBORETUM & BOTANICAL GARDENS 8909 W 179TH ST - @OPARBORETUM NOV 24 & 25, DEC 1 & 2, 7-9, 15 & 16, 5-9 PM (LAST ENTRY AT 8 PM) Take a stroll along the lit pathways to experience the magical Gnome and Fairy Villages, Marder Garden by candlelight, the colorful Children’s Garden, and enjoy musical performances throughout. Families will enjoy photos with Santa, trains running in the Train Garden, and complimentary hot cider.

M UST SE E | EN TERTA INME NT

HOLIDAY LIGHTS ON FARMSTEAD LANE - DEANNA ROSE CHILDREN’S FARMSTEAD

NUTCRACKER TEA PARTY - FIORELLA’S EVENT CENTER

13800 SWITZER RD - @DRCFARMSTEAD NIGHTLY, NOV 23-DEC 31, 5-10 PM

9000 W 137TH ST - @FIORELLASKC SATURDAY, DEC 2 - PARTIES AT 12 PM & 4 PM AND SUNDAY, DEC 3 - PARTIES AT 11:30 AM & 3:30 PM

Experience for free the enchantment of the season from the warmth of your car as you enjoy your favorite holiday tunes and watch a spectacular light show dance across the front entranceway of Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead.

Enjoy a family-friendly, one-hour version of the holiday classic, The Nutcracker Ballet, performed by Crescendo Conservatory, along with a delightful tea party. Dress up in your holiday best, shop the Nutcracker Boutique, nibble on delicious tea-party fare, and take in a magical holiday experience, all while raising funds for the Friends of Overland Park Arts.

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WINTER SKIES SHERATON KANSAS CITY AT CROWN CENTER

HOLIDAY MARKET - OVERLAND PARK FARMERS’ MARKET

2345 MCGEE ST - @SKIESKANSASCITY

7950 MARTY ST - @OPFARMERSMARKET SATURDAY, DEC 2, 8 AM-12 PM

Located on the 42nd floor, “Winter Skies” will transform the iconic former Skies restaurant into a winter forest theme. An extensive and festive winter wonderland cocktail menu will be offered in partnership with Kansas City’s Restless Spirits distillery. Beer, wine, and a complete dinner menu of entrees and dessert offerings will also be available.

M UST SE E | EN TERTA INME NT

Take advantage of an opportunity to shop at the Overland Park Farmer’s Market for holiday gifts and goodies. Discover unique holiday gifts and delicious local treats while enjoying farm-fresh farmers’ market finds.

REMAINING EVENTS 13th Annual Holiday Swing Nov 25 - Dec 17 Crown Center welcomes The Strawberry Swing Indie Craft Fair’s 13th Annual Holiday Swing to Crown Center Square. Shop the Midwest’s top craft fair for handmade gifts from over 75 local makers and creators.

Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer: The Musical Nov 7 - Dec 31 at The Coterie Theatre Back by popular demand, the beloved television classic Rudolph the RedNosed Reindeer soars off the screen and onto the stage this holiday season. Rudolph and his friends, Clarice, Hermey the Elf, and Yukon Cornelius learn what makes you different makes you special. Coterie Theater

Nine Zero One Igloo Bar The Fontaine Hotel 901 W 48th Pl - @ninezeroonekc Nov 20 - Feb 18 Discover the enchanting winter wonderland atop Kansas City’s most sought-after holiday destination: Nine Zero One’s rooftop Igloo Bar. Our Igloos and Glamping Lounge are back and more spectacular than ever this year, promising an unforgettable seasonal experience. When you reserve your spot, you’ll step into a world of themed ambiance, expertly crafted cocktails, delectable seasonal fare, and picture-perfect moments.

Santa Saturday Saturday, Dec 10 am-12 pm Meet Santa and take a photo with the jolly guy. Write a letter to Santa with help from RSVP in the Village to make sure he gets your list at The North Pole. Plus, get your whimsical caricature picture drawn and purchase hot cocoa and treats from Dolce Bakery. D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/J OH N S O N C O UN T Y

The City Lifestyle

Giving Campaign

2023 36

G IV IN G BAC K | L IFE + CULTURE

“

This Giving Campaign is all about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”

The annual City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is in its 4th year. Last holiday season we gave away over $300,000 to help 116 individuals and families in need, but we need your help to make it happen again this year. With nominations flooding in from community members and leaders such as judges, police officers, teachers, nurses, social workers, mentors and readers like you, we were able to reach people who might otherwise go unnoticed. Perhaps you know of a single parent struggling to provide for their family, an elderly person who has experienced loss, someone enduring a health issue, a co-worker suffering a sudden, unexpected tragedy or a neighbor with a financial hardship who has fallen between the cracks of getting assistance. Chances are you know someone with a specific need, even if no one else does. “We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them during this holiday season.” “We believe God has blessed our company with continued success, so we in turn want to be a blessing to others,” Matthew Perry, President of City Lifestyle adds. City Lifestyle has also enacted an internal giving program whereby every employee in the company receives $100 to give away to someone in the community. “The idea is to encourage our employees to keep giving on their own,” Steven says. “Taking care of one another and blessing others is truly rewarding and it perpetuates a cycle of giving. It’s extremely important to me as a person and as a company to foster a culture of generosity.”

Scan Code to

Nominate Nominations accepted Nov. 27 – Dec. 10, 2023

Follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram for reminders! To submit a nomination, follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram and fill out the form found in the bio link. All entries will be read, and because this is not a raffle, there is no need to nominate someone more than once. The amount given to each recipient will be based on need. All nominations and recipients will be kept confidential. D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/J OH N S O N C O UN T Y

DECEMBER 2023

events A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area. DECEMBER 1ST-3 0 TH FR IDAYS AND SATUR DAYS

Reck Deck the Halls Boulevard Brewing Company

B O UL E VA R D B R E WI NG C O MPA NY | 1 :30 P M Join us for a magical experience featuring a copious cocktail menu of holiday-inspired bevies concocted with Quirk Hard Seltzers, Fling Craft Cocktails, and of course boozy barrel-aged beers from 1:30-10:00 PM. With keepsake glassware, yuletide nibbles, and shimmering shuffleboard courts, we’ll have more holiday spirit than a Claymation movie marathon. DECEMBER 1ST-3 0 TH

Festival of Lights

P OWE L L GA R DE NS | 5 :0 0 P M Holiday lights turn Kansas City’s botanical garden into a winter wonderland from 5:00-10:00 PM. This year, Quixotic will transform the Conservatory into Crystal Chambers. While the surrounding world sinks softly into a season of hibernation, uncover a new world beneath the frost.

Gift a 4 pack of massages at BioFit! -Every massage is customized to your needs.

DECEMBER 2ND, 9 TH, 16TH & 23R D

EVE N TS

Strolling Santa and Carolers - Park Place

-BASED F

RD.

1 1 5 4 9 AS H ST R E E T | 1 1 :0 0 A M Visit with Santa on Saturdays leading up to Christmas and enjoy our Dickens carolers as they create a nostalgic holiday shopping and dining experience. Bring your kids, pets, friends, and family for this free holiday fun.

DECEMBER 2ND, 3RD, 9TH, 10TH & 16TH

Brunch with Santa - Pinstripes

13500 NALL AVENUE | 10:00 AM Bring the family and snap a picture with Santa while enjoying your favorite brunch menu items at Pinstripes this holiday season at our Santa Brunch. A professional photographer is not provided, but guests are encouraged to take their holiday photos with Santa at no cost. D E C E M BE R 6T H-JANUARY 14TH W E D N E S DAY- SAT URDAY

Christmas in the Crossroads - Society

20 50 CE NT RAL ST, KAN SAS CITY | 4: 0 0 PM Society’s immersive, modern, and upscale space will transform into a Christmas Pop-Up Bar/Restaurant experience featuring decorations, a festive cocktail menu, and numerous shareable food options. There are no reservation fees, and every guest will receive a surprise gift for the Holidays. D E C E M BE R 3 1 ST

NYE Live!

KANSAS CIT Y POW ER AN D LIGH T | 6: 0 0 P M Enjoy exclusive access to up to 10+ bars and nightclubs, all-inclusive food and drink packages, great DJs, party favors, champagne toasts, confetti cannons, and the city's most anticipated countdown to midnight – complete with a Times Square ball drop!

Elevated • Attainable • Design Specializing in Pretty AND Practical Spaces Room Refresh - Mini Kitchen Renovation - Curb Appeal Refresh

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/JohnsonCounty

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TOMSHAW.REALTOR TOMSHAW809@GMAIL.COM 15280 Metcalf Avenue, Overland Park, KS

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For all your employee benefits and business insurance needs Main: 913.345.0440 Direct: 913.396.0860 Mobile: 913.980.9931 Fax: 913.345.2608 shefner@bukaty.com www.bukaty.com

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

The Naughty List INGREDIENTS • Bronson’s Original Punch 2oz • Laird’s Applejack 1oz • El Guapo Creole Orgeat .50oz • El Guapo Holiday Bitters 6 dashes • Cranberry Juice 2oz.

Recipe courtesy of Libations

H AP PY H OU R | FOOD + BE VE RAGE

INSTRUCTIONS 1. Combine all ingredients, shake vigorously and pour over crushed ice. 2. Garnish with lemon wheel & cranberries.

BUILT ON PURPOSE

800 pediatric specialists + YOU Our 800 pediatric specialists and you, our community champions, work together to help kids get back to building their dreams.

BUILT FOR KIDS. BUILDING FOR

THEIR FUTURE.

Join us today. Visit childrensmercy.org/give or call 1 (833) KC-GIVES

Adventure Awaits The Audi Q5

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