Johnson County, KS December 2025

HOLIDAY and Giving

re Found at Home! ‘

The first Christmas story began with a family searching for shelter. This season reminds us that home isn’t just a place — it’s where life’s most meaningful moments unfold.

Whether you’re gathering by the fireplace, baking in the kitchen, or dreaming of a new space to call your own, may your home be filled with peace and joy.

“Every good and perfect gift is from above.”

James 1:17

WHERE ♥ MEETS HOME

Join me each month as we explore how to live well, spread kindness, and make a difference — right here in Johnson County.

GIVE THE GIFT OF HOME

This holiday season, consider giving back to those in need of an affordable and safe home by supporting Habitat for Humanity’s ReStore. Whether it’s donating home supplies or making a monetary contribution,

HALEY EPPS

Realtor

Compass Sports and Entertainment Division

M: 913.558.5958

O: 913.382.6711

haley.epps@compass.com

haleyeppsteam.com ®

Contact me today for your private and complimentary consultation. Make your holiday dreams a reality! your generosity will make a lasting impact in our community and help spread the true spirit of the season.

KC OUTDOOR SPACES

At KC Outdoor Spaces, we believe your outdoor space should feel like a natural extension of your home — a place to relax, entertain, and make lasting memories. Our team is committed to delivering exceptional craftsmanship and personalized service across Kansas City. From bold transformations to subtle enhancements, our work is built to impress and made to last.

Letter from the Publisher

When I think about our Giving issue, I’m reminded of all the ways that we can give. Through time, resources, hospitality, finances, a quick hug, an exchange of smiles with the cashier at the grocery store or even offering a home cooked meal to someone in need. Whatever it looks like, we all have something to give and ways we can bless those around us!

Our annual giving campaign is always a special part of our December issue. As a company, we’re committed to giving back to those in need. It’s one of the most special parts of City Lifestyle and we’re proud to be part of a business that values such generosity! This issue is packed with beautiful stories that celebrate the holiday season and encourage us all to give.

Many of us probably have Christmas traditions that surround giving as well. For my family and I, traditions are what make the holidays so magical. One of my favorite Christmas traditions we’ve started is homemade waffles on Christmas morning. It’s simple, but it’s one of the few times each year we break out the waffle maker, and it always feels like Christmas is truly here.

I’m so thankful for the birth of our Savior and what an amazing reason that is to celebrate! Whatever your Christmas season looks like, wherever you celebrate and whoever you spend it with, we pray this time of year is filled with joy, peace & hope!

With love,

December 2025

PUBLISHER

Nolan Williams | nolan.williams@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Eva Williams | eva.williams@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Angela Broockerd | angela.broockerd@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Angela Broockerd, Lauren Powers, Judy Spaar

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Janie Jones

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich

LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell

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R e s e r v e y o u r t a b l e t o d a y a n d m a k e t h i s N e w Y e a r ’ s E v e o n e t o r e m e m b e r

Waters Davidson Family Dentistry

Proudly serving our community for nearly 50 years, our practice combines experience, compassion, and quality care. With exceptional providers, we treat every patient like family— keeping our community smiling, one visit at a time. Visit locations in Olathe and Stilwell.

Double Your Impact for Children at Children’s Mercy This Holiday Season

This holiday season, your generosity can go twice as far to bring comfort, hope and lifesaving care to children and families facing their most critical moments at Children’s Mercy. Every gift — up to $150,000 — will be doubled, dollar-for-dollar, thanks to the Emilie Rosebud Diabetes Research Foundation, the Linda Watson Family Foundation and a generous community of champions. Thank you for helping children receive the care and compassion they deserve when it matters most.

Urgent Care At Home is here to serve YOU! Top-notch health care without ever having to leave your couch. Whether it's an in-home visit or quick Telehealth chat, we're here to provide quality care wherever you are. We provide a wide range of services beyond just urgent care. Routine checkups, sports physicals, chronic disease management, weight management and more! Meghan Macy, MSN, FNP-C, NE

This Giving Tuesday, you can light the way for kids’ mental health - and double your impact.

"What a dream to think a teen like me could get the care they need within minutes from home, thanks to all the new mental health services now available at Children’s Mercy!"

- Kristen, age 19

Kristen, who lives in Johnson County, had to travel to Wisconsin and Texas to get the complex care required for Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID); missing a whole year of high school and spending many birthdays and holidays away from her family.

Revival Scalp Wellness

...where scalp care means more hair

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"After a single, Luxe scalp service, my scalp was absolutely pristine. My hair was silky and easy to style. In the weeks following, I was SHOCKED to see tons of baby hairs sprouting up all over my head!" - Carla

Nothing brightens the holidays like the ambience of a fresh-cut tree

Oh Christmas Tree!

The aroma of rich pine that emanates from a real tree cannot be duplicated. It conjures memories of walking with our parents or grandparents to find the perfect one. Why not make this a tradition for your family and bring that nostalgia to your own home this Christmas season?

These three choose and cut Christmas tree farms offer the unique experience you are searching for. They make cutting your own tree simple and you’ll embrace the warmth of their hospitality and love of what they do.

MIDLAND HOLIDAY PINES

Phil and Judy Wegman, owners of Midland Holiday Pines, started planting trees on their seven-acre farm in Shawnee in 1995. He explained, “We began selling Christmas trees in 2002 since it takes a minimum of seven years for most varieties of Scotch Pine trees to reach a height of six to seven feet tall, the preferred Christmas tree height.”

A family-owned choose-and-cut Christmas tree farm, they offer a variety of field grown trees, including Scotch Pine, Austrian Pine, Virginia Pine, and White Pine trees from five to 18 feet tall that customers can select and cut down. In addition, they offer pre-cut Christmas trees including Fraser Fir, Douglas Fir, Concolor Fir, Balsam Fir and Blue Spruce trees.

“Half our customers choose to cut down their own tree while the other half prefer a pre-cut Christmas Tree of a different variety,” he explained.

Their friendly customer service includes shaking, netting, and securing the tree on each customer’s car.

“We offer charm, tradition, and the holiday spirit. Professional photography is scheduled by appointment on a fee basis in our picture-perfect setting,” he continued. “Trees are like people they are all different and offer special features and styles.”

18541 Midland Dr, Shawnee, KS (913) 631-5095

HESS ACRES TREE FARM

When George and Cathy Hess planted the first trees in 1991, they were busy raising children and living life.

“We built our house in 1995 then planted more trees over the years,” Cathy noted. “We got serious about selling in 2016 when George retired. We always enjoyed getting a live tree with our three children and decided it might be even more fun to sell and watch lots of families enjoy the tradition of picking their trees. Also, part of our property is classified as agricultural which keeps our property tax from rising.”

Although their farm is smaller than some in Johnson County, one point of uniqueness is that all trees, no matter the size, are the same price!  Families can wander over the property and choose any tree without being concerned with the cost. They added, “We love that some families have made it a tradition and come back year after year. Now we have grandchildren who help us sell and serve hot cider and Candy canes.”

Locally grown trees include a variety of Scotch Pine which they sell. These come in varying needle lengths from short to about three inches.

The trees grow about one foot per year. So, an eight-foot tree requires eight to nine years growing time. She explained that like anything in agriculture some years are better than others for growth. The trees are trimmed once a year around the first of June. There are variations in size, from tall and skinny to short and round.

“So, you will see some differences and find the one that calls to you,” they smiled.

24350 W 83rd St, Lenexa, 66227, KS

913-484-5024

“We are incredibly grateful for the chance to bring joy to others during what we believe is the most meaningful time of the year.”

PINESTEAD GROVE FARM

When husband and wife, Ken Selzer and Deb Grimes, saw the opportunity to purchase D&G Tree Farm, they jumped at the chance to continue the tradition of helping families kick off their holiday celebrations together.

“We both grew up in Kansas farm families, so agriculture is in our roots,” he explained. “Alongside our professional careers, we built a small farming operation in northeast Miami County so expanding into a Christmas tree farm felt like a natural and fulfilling fit.”

Pinestead Grove Farm is truly a family and friends effort, including good friend and partner, Lindsay Preisinger, daughter, Mallory Vaughn, and several regular helpers who work throughout the year.  During the holiday season over 25 additional team members help guests.

“We want families to feel welcomed and cared for here,” they smiled. “We look forward to expanding throughout the year with other events.”

They grow beautifully shaped Scots Pines and offer fresh cut Balsam and Fraser firs brought in from trusted northern growers.

Wreaths are handcrafted on the farm using fresh greens, with different sizes, bows and accents so customers can create something uniquely theirs.

Visitors can enjoy hot cocoa, fire pits, a rustic gift area with holiday goods, with photo spots throughout the farm to capture the moment.

In this their first season, they opened on Black Friday and will be open this month (December) Fridays and Saturdays 9-5 p.m., and Sundays 11-5 p.m., through December 14th with themed weekends. Check their Facebook page and website for more information.

This is a labor of love. They expressed, “We are incredibly grateful for the chance to bring joy to others during what we believe is the most meaningful time of the year. For us, it's not just about selling Christmas trees-it's about creating a place where memories are made, where traditions grow, and where families can take a deep breath and remember what the season is really about.”

8820 W 247th St, Louisburg, KS 66053

913-557-0522

Peace of Mind: The Ultimate Gift

The

THE GIFT OF EXPERIENCE:

5 Memorable Ways to Celebrate the Season

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

This holiday season, skip the wrapping paper and give something even more meaningful: a gift they’ll remember long after the decorations are packed away. Whether you’re shopping for the golfer, foodie, sports fan, or wellness enthusiast in your life, these Kansas City experiences promise joy, connection, and unforgettable moments.

Bring the fairway to their doorstep with The Greenroom, Kansas City’s luxury mobile golf simulator experience. This immersive 15-foot simulator arrives at your home, office, or event, complete with professional hosts and realistic play options from mini games to full rounds. Elegant, turnkey, and fun, it is the perfect gift for anyone who wants to keep their swing sharp all winter long.

Give the thrill of live action with Kansas City Mavericks hockey. From theme nights to post-game skates, each home game offers fast-paced excitement and hometown spirit. It is an experience that brings fans of all ages together and the perfect way to create family memories that outlast the final buzzer.

3. FOR THE FOOD LOVER

Turn an ordinary night in into a culinary event with a private dinner from Of Course. This bespoke at-home experience brings the bold, authentic flavors of South Indian cuisine to your table. Each course is beautifully prepared and served, creating a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of home.

4. FOR THE WELLNESS ENTHUSIAST

At Revival Scalp Wellness, self-care and science meet in a truly rejuvenating experience. Their holistic treatments restore balance to the scalp, promoting hair health and confidence from the roots up. Each session combines advanced therapies, red light treatment, and soothing massage for a blissful reset that feels both luxurious and transformative.

5. FOR THE GAME SHOW STAR AT HEART

Let the laughter and friendly competition begin at Game Show Battle Rooms. Guests step into an immersive studio setting complete with hosts and games inspired by TV favorites. Perfect for families, friends, or corporate gatherings, it is high-energy entertainment that guarantees smiles all around.

This year, give more than a gift and share an experience. The best presents are not things; they are the memories made together.

CLEANING MAGIC KC

Bridging History and Good Times

THE NEW ROCK ISLAND BRIDGE PROJECT IS A ONE-OF-A-KIND SPACE

When, if ever, have you watched a competitive rowing event in person? Or enjoyed the creativity of plein air painting at 40 feet above a river? Or just sipped a cold one while wild ducks paddle below your feet?

We can now do these things and many more in a longawaited fun new place.

The Rock Island Bridge Entertainment District is finally open to the public. And we have 1982 North Kansas City High School graduate Michael Zeller to thank.

The Rock Island Bridge is a former railroad bridge built in 1905 that crosses the Kaw River from the West Bottoms near the Hy-Vee Arena (formerly the Kemper Arena) into Kansas City, Kansas. Trains have not crossed the bridge since 1979, so it just sat there all rusted and ugly.

But one day, about 18 years ago, Michael, who now lives in Brookside, and some friends took a boat ride up the Kaw River. He remembers joking that someone ought to build a restaurant on the old bridge and name it Chicken on a Bridge.

As it turns out, Chicken on a Bridge is one of several yummy specialties at The River House, a 150-seat open-air restaurant on the bridge that features local favorites Arthur Bryant’s burnt ends, tacos with Spanish Gardens sauce, and steak soup from the Plaza III Steakhouse.

Arthur Bryant’s owner Andrew Miller and chefs Bradley and Brittany Gilmore of Lula’s Southern Cookhouse are

ARTICLE BY DIANA LAMBDIN MEYER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRUCE N. MEYER

coordinating their skills to bring a special flare to The River House and catered events in the upper level event space called the Royal Hall – a nod to the American Royal Livestock Show.

The bridge is technically owned by the Unified Government of Wyandotte County. Michael signed the lease in 2017 and has been hammering away at details and obstacles ever since. No one has ever done what he and his investors have done.

“We believe this to be the only entertainment district on a bridge above a river in the world,” Michael said. “We’ve said that enough times that if it’s not true, someone on the internet would have called us out.”

The Royal Bar at The River House is 55 feet long and Michael believes it is the longest in the metro. No one has called him out on that yet, either.

To get to this point, the levee on the Kansas side of the river had to be raised and the bridge itself was raised about three feet to accommodate new Corps of Engineers flood standards. In doing so, the engineering firm discovered that the original gears, installed in 1905, still worked perfectly. Other than a little rust, the bridge itself is in great shape.

Eventually, vines and other greenery will cover much of the rusty spaces, but the design team specifically want to showcase the history of the region by maintaining as much original construction as possible.

As the ivy grows, the bridge will host farmers markets, free concerts, makers spaces, art exhibits and more. The free wifi should satisfy everyone wanting to work away from the office for a day.

The second floor includes a private event space for weddings, corporate functions and the like. With so much complex engineering needed for a project like this, you would think that Michael has some sort of background in construction or engineering. That’s not the case.

For 17 years, he was the development director at KCPT. But that served him well in generating donors and investors to the project. Michael’s travels around the world also contributed to the motivation and vision of this unlikely project.

“We believe this to be the only entertainment district on a bridge above a river in the world.”

“You can ride your bike right through the first level of the entertainment district, grab a picnic lunch and continue on your way. Or stay for some music and a drink.”

“In much of Europe, they talk about the power of constraints, the idea of building something within limited frameworks and how that fuels creativity,” he said. “In Copenhagen, instead of tearing down old grain elevators, they turned them into apartment buildings, and it works.”

Michael was also inspired by visits to New York, where an abandoned freight railway on Manhattan’s West Side has been developed into a very popular public park with gardens, art and green space known as the High Line.

The Rock Island Bridge is now a part of a nationwide group of infrastructure reuse projects called the High Line Network. The bridge is also a trail head for the Greenline, a 10-mile recreation trail around downtown KCMO and KCK. It connects to KCK’s 17 miles of levee top bike trails, so yes, you can ride your bike right through the first level of the entertainment district, grab a picnic lunch and continue on your way. Or stay for some music and a drink.

Even though the Rock Island Bridge is owned by the Unified Government, the only access to the bridge this fall is on the Missouri side via the West Bottoms near Hy-Vee Arena. By spring 2026, the KCK access should be complete.

The Rock Island Bridge will close in January and February. For more information, go to rockislandkc.com

Buying or selling a boat?

L E T U S CHAR T YOU R COURS E

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Change the Life of a Neighbor in Need

January 17, 2026

Overland Park Convention Center

Make a gift or purchase a ticket or table before registration closes on December 17!

snowballgala.org/hope

Snow Ball is more than a gala. It serves as a reflection of the love and generosity that defines our community.

A gift through Snow Ball ensures that more than 74,000 people will have access to food for their families; a safe place to sleep; job skills to earn a livable wage; and most importantly, hope for a brighter tomorrow.

Please consider joining us!

$0.91 of every dollar donated goes directly to 25+ programs offered by Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas that lift families from poverty, provide crisis support and create lasting change.

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Call Envirotech Heating & Cooling today at 913-268-6700 or visit EnvirotechKC.com to schedule your free estimate.

Cozy & Classic:

Holiday Decor That Feels Like Home

Decorating for the holidays doesn't have to be a stressful, all-or-nothing affair. If the thought of packing away every single item just to replace it with Christmas-themed gear gives you a headache, you’re not alone!

We spoke with expert decorators Mary Carol Garrity, warmly known for the founder of Nell Hills and Diebolt's and her business partner, Rebecca to get their best tips on creating a beautiful, warm, and festive home without the madness. The secret? Tuck, don't trade "People feel like they have to take everything off their mantel and do it all Christmas," Mary Carol notes, describing the common, but overwhelming approach to holiday decorating. She and Rebecca prefer a much simpler, less labor-intensive method.

Instead of stripping the space bare, they suggest working with what you already have. "I liked everything I had on it, and we mainly added greens," Mary Carol shared, referring to their approach to her mantel. "By simply tucking in fresh or artificial greenery, a ribbon, or some subtle pinecones around existing items, like pictures or candles, you instantly elevate the look and bring in the festive feel." This "tuck, don't trade" method

saves time and energy, making the subsequent cleanup a breeze. "It's a lot less work up front," Mary Carol promises, "and it's going to be a lot less to take it down but still looks beautiful and festive."

When it comes to the tree, Mary Carol admits she’s not the biggest fan of the traditional, huge setup. "I like doing anything but a Christmas tree," she laughs.

Her solution? Don't stress over a massive centerpiece. By using a smaller, four-foot tree and placing it in a decorative urn, she achieves a grand effect that defies its actual size. "From the outside of the house, it looks like a 10-foot Christmas tree," she said. To give any tree a little more life, Rebecca suggests adding extra greenery picks and real pinecones at the base to fill in gaps and hide the cords.

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

The holiday table should be a welcoming space for gathering, not a source of anxiety. The biggest lesson from these experts is that decorating the table should be about connection, not perfection.

"It's not so much about what you serve or how much you decorate your table, it's getting people together," Rebecca noted. "If decorating will stress you out, keep it simple."

Simple tricks from the pair include:

Layering China: Don't be afraid to mix and match. "Bring in a piece of your grandmother's china that you'd never use, and let us show you how to mix it with to give it a whole different vibe," Mary Carol suggests. Pair a formal plate with an everyday pattern to make it feel more current.

Easy Linens: Choose a 60-inch square tablecloth. They're easy to clean, they're easy to iron, and easy to store, and they show a little bit of your table underneath, giving it a little character.

Finishing Touches: Use the ends of your table for serving stations, like a dedicated coffee and dessert area. This frees up the main seating area and makes entertaining seamless. For a special touch, tucking in a few roses, an orange slice, and cranberries into a small vase adds color and warmth.

"Use what you have," is Rebecca’s simple but powerful advice. The goal is to create a festive atmosphere that is cozy, elegant, and fun, and not exhausting.

Personalized Attention Experienced Instructors Located at 151 & Metcalf st 7254

ILLUMINATE YOUR HOLIDAY SEASON AT THE

The spirit of the season comes alive with this Christmas tradition.

There is nothing more magical than immersing yourself in the shimmering light fantasy experience at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens! You and your family can visit through December 30th.

This Luminary Walk began wowing visitors in 1999 as a single-night event created by the passionate volunteers of the nonprofit group, Friends of the Arboretum (FOTA.) Their goal was to invite the community to experience the Arboretum in a new way during the winter season while raising funds to support its growth.

“The response was so positive that the event continued to expand, and today, it has grown into a seasonal tradition spanning more than 20 nights in the event schedule!” noted Brit Waye, Community Engagement Manager.

The event is organized by FOTA, a division of The Arts & Recreation Foundation of Overland Park and remains their largest annual fundraiser. Proceeds support their mission to preserve, enhance, and promote this community treasure. Over the years, funds from Luminary Walk and other “Friends” events like Terra Luna, Botanical Brewfest, and the Spring Plant Sale have helped make significant improvements to the Arboretum, including the Train Garden, two greenhouses, educational programs, and many garden enhancements. FOA is proud to have contributed $2.3 million toward the LongHouse Visitor Center.

“What began as a small community idea has grown into one of the region’s most cherished holiday traditions, and it continues to support the Arboretum’s long-term growth and impact,” she expressed.

This year, guests can choose from four unique ways to experience the Luminary Walk, each designed for different interests and accessibility needs, including the Traditional Luminary Walk on Weekends. This family-friendly experience includes everything from glowing candlelit paths in the quiet winter woods to festive colorful light displays in the Children’s Garden and Gnome and Fairy Villages. Families can enjoy photos with Santa, complimentary hot cider, and live musical performances stationed throughout the gardens with food and treats from Jack Stack Barbecue and Jack’s Kettle Corn.

The Adults-Only Candlelight Stroll will happen on select Thursdays is a friendsnight-out or date-night evening for adults who want to enjoy the beauty of the lights in a more peaceful setting while enjoying wine and other adult drinks.

The Electric Glow will occur on Limited Capacity Nights for visitors desiring a low-sensory experience. It focuses solely on the electric light displays without additional programming or large crowds. This option is ideal for guests who prefer a calm environment.

December 1-3 are reserved for those with accessibility needs, with glow carts and such.

To enhance the mood, a magical lineup of live entertainment will perform during Traditional Luminary Walk weekends and the Adults-Only Candlelight Stroll evenings, including classical ensembles, opera, jazz, Celtic folk, world music, acoustic favorites, holiday carolers, barbershop quartets, big band swing, and local choirs.

Guests this year can bring a piece of this magical experience home. As it will be the final year to experience the magic of their whimsical, beloved Gnome and Fairy Villages, each handcrafted from natural materials collected at the Arboretum will be available for purchase. They can be picked up after the display closes in February. Proceeds will directly support future improvements at the Arboretum through FOA fundraising.

“It is a wonderful way for the community to enjoy a piece of Luminary Walk history while giving back to the gardens we all love,” she smiled. “We look forward to welcoming everyone to celebrate with us.”

Tickets can be purchased online at opabg.org. Friends of the Arboretum Members receive discounts on ticket purchases.

| 913-709-2114 | @radiantcolorstudio | Johnson County, KS Ally Conner The colors you wear impact how you look, feel, and how others perceive you. Color analysis identifies your best colors, and what that means for you, is that you will look radiant and polished while saving time! No more wasted purchases - only colors that make you shine! Our clients experience a wardrobe that feels cohesive, elegant and effortless because every color works in total harmony. Saving time, money, and creating ease in your wardrobe is a no-brainer, isn't it?

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

INGREDIENTS:

FESTIVE CRANBERRY GIN FIZZ

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

• 2 oz gin

• 1 oz cranberry juice

• 3/4 oz lemon juice

• 1/2 oz simple syrup

• 1 egg white

Optional: splash of sparkling water or club soda

Garnish: fresh rosemary or thyme sprig

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

INSTRUCTIONS: CONTINUED >

HOLIDAY SPICED GINGERBREAD LATTE

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

INSTRUCTIONS:

INGREDIENTS:

For the latte:

• 1 shot of espresso (or 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee)

• 3/4 cup milk

• 2 tbsp gingerbread syrup

• Whipped cream

For the gingerbread syrup:

• 1/2 cup water

• 1/2 cup brown sugar

• 1 tbsp molasses

• 1/2 tsp ground ginger

• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

• 1/4 tsp nutmeg

• 1/8 tsp ground cloves

• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Optional toppings:

• Ground cinnamon or nutmeg for dusting

• Marshmallow

• Crushed gingerbread cookie around the rim or on top

Make the gingerbread syrup:

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

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

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

BOURBON VANILLA BEAN HOT CHOCOLATE

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

• 2 cups whole milk

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

INGREDIENTS:

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

• 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder

• 2 tbsp sugar or maple syrup

• 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract

• Pinch of sea salt

• 2 oz bourbon

Topping: 4 large marshmallows

Optional garnish: grated dark chocolate, whipped cream, cinnamon

INSTRUCTIONS:

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

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

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

SPICED CINNAMON RUM FLIP

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

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 oz dark or spiced rum

• 3/4 oz cinnamon simple syrup

• 1 oz heavy cream

• 1 whole egg

• Dash of ground nutmeg

• Dash of vanilla extract

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

INSTRUCTIONS:

Make Cinnamon Simple Syrup:

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

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

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

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RINGING IN THE NEW YEAR

As the clock counts down to midnight, few things feel more special than gathering around a beautifully set table with the people you love most.

For Kansas City home décor icons Mary Carol of Nell Hills and Diebolt's and her business partner, Rebecca Wood, New Year’s Eve is the perfect opportunity to mix sparkle with sentiment, creating a setting that feels festive yet warm and inviting.

Their latest table design captures exactly that spirit. “Our theme here is obviously New Year’s Eve,” Rebecca laughs. “We found these cute little ‘ring for champagne’ bells, and it all started from there. Mary Carol saw them and said, ‘Oh, I want that at my place setting!’ So, we built the whole table around that playful touch.”

From there, the magic unfolded naturally. Candlelight glows softly across the table, setting a celebratory tone. Tiny disco balls and balloons bring in just the right amount of shimmer and fun.

“It’s really more of an intimate little gathering of close friends,” Rebecca says, “so we wanted it to feel festive without being over the top.”

One of their favorite touches is something simple yet stunning: the napkin bows. “We love bows,” Mary Carol admits. “We used wide satin ribbon for our napkin rings, which is so easy to do but has such a wow factor. It says, ‘Let’s celebrate!’ without taking hours to prepare.” Each setting also includes a cheerful party horn, a whimsical nod to the midnight toast to come.

Mary Carol and Rebecca are known for their relaxed approach to design, encouraging hosts to mix and match rather than stress over perfection. “We mixed different china patterns on this table,” Rebecca explains. “We actually used three kinds if you count the bread and butter plates. It gives the table personality.” A gleaming candelabra anchors the look, while a soup tureen repurposed as a centerpiece adds a creative twist. “A lot of people have pieces like that sitting around,” Rebecca notes. “Just fill them with disco balls or ornaments and you’ve got a beautiful centerpiece!”

Even the tablecloth carries a story. The soft square of decorator fabric belongs to their friend Judy, who often reminds them not to take entertaining too seriously. “We were getting caught up in the details, polishing silver, worrying about perfection,” Mary Carol recalls fondly. “And Judy said, ‘You’re not entertaining the Queen!’ She’s right. It’s not about perfection. It’s about people.”

That sentiment captures the heart of Mary Carol and Rebecca’s philosophy. “Take the time to invite people into your home,” Rebecca says. “That’s one of the kindest things you can do for your friends and family. It doesn’t have to be fancy or stressful. The best gatherings are the ones where everyone feels relaxed and loved.”

Their New Year’s Eve table proves that a beautiful celebration doesn’t require weeks of planning or endless polish. With a few ribbons, a touch of sparkle, and plenty of laughter, you can set a scene that welcomes joy right along with the new year.

After all, as Mary Carol’s mother always said, “If you have fun setting the table, your guests will have fun sitting at it.”

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