Kirkwood, MO December 2025

The dog ate the snowmen.

Every December, starting when they were in grade school, I would give these two boys the ultimate gift: a “stay-home-from-school-anddecorate-the-house-day.” The boys would get to skip school and spend the day decorating the house. The rules were simple. They had full creative control to go crazy and decorate however they wanted. And when I got home from work, I couldn’t comment, change, or touch a thing. When they were little, they would cover stacked boxes with white sheets and create vignettes of gingerbread men sledding down the “mountain.” When they were in middle school, I received a text from the boys with a picture of various holiday decorations, lined up against the wall next to Nurf airsoft pellets, and the text read, “Don’t worry about it.” In high school, they sent me a picture of plush snowmen positioned as goalies in a street hockey net. When I got home, the snowmen were destroyed and the there was a note on the refrigerator that read “The dog ate the snowmen.”

Understandably, I am in need of new holiday decorations. I was looking through the Gift Guide in this issue and found really great ideas. I love the huge selection holiday decor and gifts from our locally owned businesses. We are incredibly fortunate to live in communities like Kirkwood, Webster Groves, Glendale, and Des Peres, where we can easily shop local, if not exclusively, then at least first. Make your list. Check it twice. Shopping local is really nice.

Happy Holidays, Everyone!

December 2025

PUBLISHER

Renee Moore | renee.moore@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Kate Berry | kate.berry@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Sydney Taylor

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Sydney Taylor, Lucy Rogers, Katie Elizabeth, Andrea Maddock

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Danny Zofness

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall

LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick

Emil

ARTICLE BY SYDNEY TAYLOR

EMIL FREI & ASSOCIATES CRAFTS STAINED GLASS THAT INSPIRES FAITH AND BEAUTY ACROSS GENERATIONS.

LEGACY IN LIGHT

Tucked away in the heart of Kirkwood is Emil Frei & Associates, a fifth-generation family-owned liturgical design studio that has quietly shaped some of the most sacred spaces in America. From cathedrals and basilicas to schools and hospitals, their breathtaking stained glass and mosaics can be found across the country, but their roots run deep in St. Louis.

“SACRED ART IS ABOUT REVEALING THE DIVINE, DRAWING VIEWERS CLOSER TO GOD.”

“I’m the fifth generation in our family to carry on this legacy, which began with my great-great grandfather,” said Aaron Frei, President of Emil Frei & Associates. “My father, Steve, is still in the studio, and three of my siblings and I work alongside him. It’s a family affair in every sense.”

Like many who grow up in a family business, Aaron’s path was not a straight one. “Anyone born into a family business will immediately look for the quickest way out. Every one of us kids did,” he laughed. “We all had to leave in order to return happily again.”

Aaron earned his master’s in theology from the University of Dallas and spent several years in a Cistercian monastery before returning home. His expertise in theology and iconog raphy is deeply ingrained in his work.

“Sacred art is about revealing the divine, drawing viewers closer to God,” he said.

Growing up in the historic Soulard neighborhood of St. Louis, Aaron recalls being shaped by the beauty of the city’s architecture. “Only when I moved away did I start to feel the absence of that architectural richness.

Returning to St. Louis, I clearly saw how much those brick buildings and timeless details had shaped my aesthetic values,” Aaron said.

Now, as an artisan, Aaron describes his role with precision. “An artisan has a heavy hand in the aesthetic impact of a work of art, but is not directly responsible for the design,” he explained. “Stained glass is an architectural art. It’s not like a painting you hang on the

Tim Schulze, CLTC

wall; it’s built into the skin of a building. It has a permanence that other arts don’t.”

That permanence comes with complexity.

“Each stained glass panel involves dozens to hundreds of hours,” he said. “They’re layered, fired, and refined to perfection. And it’s not like painting on canvas; you can’t fire every layer at the same temperature or time. It’s a highly technical, delicate process.”

Though Emil Frei & Associates is headquartered in Kirkwood, their reach is national.

“We’re currently creating for clients nationwide—from Denver to Muskogee to Houston— proving sacred stained glass is still thriving,” Aaron said. “From St. Peter’s to Concordia Lutheran, our studio has shaped much of Kirkwood’s sacred architectural identity.”

“FAITH AND BEAUTY GO HAND IN HAND.”

And while new commissions keep them busy, they’re also committed to preservation. “While not every piece is salvaged, we do everything we can to preserve significant works, especially those created by Frei artisans,” Aaron said. “Sometimes, the windows are so grand, you almost have to design the church around them. There’s a real cost to removing, storing, and restoring them.”

Each project begins with collaboration. “Everything is a dialogue,” he said. “Clients come to us because we have an imagination. We start with black-andwhite concept sketches, then move to watercolor studies, and finally to precise drafting and fabrication.”

The result is work that feels timeless and intentional. Aaron believes that sacred art has always flourished when faith is strongest.

“The beauty of older churches wasn’t just artistic; it was devotional. Families who couldn’t afford sacred art at home gave much to their parish, because church was their second home,” he said. “If we want beauty to return, we have to go to its source: God. Faith and beauty go hand in hand.”

In every pane, faith finds form and light becomes legacy. It’s an art built to inspire for generations to come.

Visit https://www.emilfrei.com to learn more.

Christmas in Candlelight

ARTICLE BY SYDNEY TAYLOR PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Cape Albeon residents honor Christmas through faith, music, and reflection.

Each December, the residents of Cape Albeon Lakeside Retirement Living Community in Valley Park gather for one of their most cherished traditions, the annual candlelight dinner. It’s an evening that blends scripture, song, and reflection, inviting everyone to pause and embrace the quiet beauty of the Christmas story.

Chaplain Le, who has helped lead the program for 10 years, describes it as “more than a story on paper.” Together with a soloist, she shares beautiful passages of scripture, each followed by a Christmas carol that complements the reading. “We incorporate the Christmas story into our hearts,” she explained.

Before the service begins, every seat in the brightly lit dining room is set with a small candle and a printed blessing, with affirmations such as “I am a beloved child of God” or “God guides my footsteps and leads me in the right path.” When the time comes, the staff collect the candles and light them from a single large Christ candle at the front of the room, then place each candle in a bed of sand.

The lights are dimmed in the dining room, and the peaceful glow of dozens of flickering flames fills the space, as voices softly join in an a cappella version of “Silent Night.” “For those few moments, you sit in the beauty and quiet of it all,” Chaplain Le said.

Afterward, the evening ends with a prayer of grace and a gourmet dinner. The candlelight dinner has become one of Cape Albeon’s biggest holiday events. Chaplain Le and the staff host a candlelight

Carol DiSanza - Executive Director of Cape Albeon Independent and Assisted Living

“For those few moments, you sit in the beauty and quiet of it all.”

dinner twice a year: once at The Harbor for independent and cottage residents, and again the following day at The Village for assisted living and memory care residents. Carolers, festive decorations, and meaningful music fill the air throughout the Advent season.

“It’s a wonderful tradition,” Chaplain Le reflected. “Our goal is always to make the holidays as beautiful, festive, and meaningful as we can.”

ARTICLE BY ANDREA MADDOCK, JANET MCAFEE REALTOR PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANDREA MADDOCK

Talk of the Neighborhood

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE HOLIDAY TRADITION?

For my four oldest grandkids, I put a “Save the Date” in their stockings, and we all go out and do something they want to do for the day.

Mindy Kramer

We have started a new tradition of taking our kids to the New Cathedral for Christmas Mass.

I had a huge box of collectible cookie cutters. The kids would make sugar cookies at Christmas, and we had a contest for who decorated their cookies the best.

Keli Richards, owner of Embroider The Occasion

On Christmas Eve, my sisters and I spend the night at my parents’ house with our kids, wearing matching pajamas. When we wake up on Christmas morning, everyone unwraps their gifts together.

Santa coming to visit!

Kelly Smith, owner of Blooms In Yellow

We go to the Ritz-Carlton for teddy bear tea with our girls. My sister and a good friend started doing it with their girls when they were four, and they are now in college; my daughter has been going with me for 18 years. The girls still get their faces painted and eat cookies.

Sean and Millie Darroch

My sister and I have our own themed Christmas trees; I have snowmen, and she has Santas. We will make our daughter, Caroline, her own candy cane Christmas tree.

Ann Meyer and Chris Conley, sisters and owners of Project 2

Chris Welsch and Robin Krueger

We visit a friend’s house for cocktails and then dine at the Charcoal House.

One of our favorite traditions was with our dad. The three of us would go Christmas shopping for everybody one night a year. We would have dinner and would always throw in a few extra things for ourselves when we cleaned out the stores. It was the highlight of the season!

Jon Kuhlmann

My favorite holiday tradition is spending Christmas Eve with my kids, and then we wake up early to make them cinnamon rolls before opening presents.

Home for the Holidays

As you dream of holiday celebrations—sparkling New Year’s Eve parties, decorating the perfect tree, and cozy evenings spent caroling—remember: it’s not just a house; it’s a home. Whether you’re looking for more space to host loved ones or a cozy retreat for quiet moments, I’m here to help you every step of the way.

If you or anyone you know is looking to buy or sell a home in Kirkwood, Webster, Glendale, or anywhere in the St. Louis area, let’s connect! Together, we can create a plan to find the best space for all your holiday gatherings and family traditions for years to come.

Shop Local Gift Guide

ARTICLE BY LUCY ROGERS | PHOTOGRAPHY

SHOPPING LOCAL IS MORE THAN BUYING GIFTS; IT’S INVESTING IN THE PEOPLE WHO CREATE COMMUNITY.

There’s something truly special about holiday shopping in your own neighborhood. Walking into a locally owned store and being greeted with a warm smile from someone your family has known for years or from a neighbor you just met turns holiday shopping into a memorable experience. You don’t get that connection when you shop online. You live here because you love this community—its charm, its people, its spirit. Supporting local businesses is one of the most powerful ways to ensure communities continue to grow and thrive, season after season.

The holidays remind us to pause… and to ima ine what’s possible.

The holidays remind us to pause… and to imagine what’s possible.

Maybe this year stretched you last. Maybe you’re ready for change and not sure where to begin.

Maybe this year stretched you. Maybe you put yourself last. Maybe you’re ready for change and not sure where to begin.

At BODY20, we believe in small steps, open doors, and neighbors becoming encouragers. You don’t have to be fit to start.

At BODY20, we believe in steps, open doors, and neighbors becoming encouragers. You don’t have to be fit to start.

You just have to be ready for a little support in a place where you matter. You just have to be ready for a little support in a place where you matter.

Start where you are. We’ll lift you from there. where you are. We’ll lift you from there.

We’ll be here to walk beside you in the new year — one powerful step at a time! We’ll be here to walk beside you the year — one powerful step at time!

Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and joyous New Year!

THESE ARE A FEW OF

our favorite things

our favorite things

As someone who lives and breathes health and wellness—whether I’m coaching clients through their fitness goals or helping them fine-tune their nutrition —I’ve noticed a common thread among experts in our space: we love to rave about our favorite supplements, recovery tools, or health and wellness hacks. We love to share what works. But this holiday season, I wanted to flip the script. Instead of asking local health and wellness professionals about their favorite industry product picks, I asked them to share the products or services that bring them personal joy. Because joy, after all, is just as essential to health and wellness as kettlebells and kale.

Dr. Holly Ellis, owner of Ellis Dental - I love the cute Nora Fleming Stoneware serving dish “minis.” Get them at Christophers in Kirkwood.

Tristina Phillips, owner of Body20 in Des Peres - I love the Superstars Bundle from Naturium. I like things that are easily bundled together.

While they are not necessarily healthy items, these are the necessities of life for our favorite health care professionals.

Dr. Jim Hankinson, owner of Back To Wellness Chiropractic - My favorite thing is my record player from the 1980s. It still works, and I love playing all my favorite bands on vinyl.

Katie Elizabeth, owner of Strong By IntentionI was gifted this Foxelli heated vest last winter, and it has become a staple for me when spending time outside in the cooler weather.

Katie Elizabeth

Strong By Intention

The winter season calls for mindful movement and sustainable nutrition to become the strongest, most joyful version of yourself—inside and out.  For personalized support, visit strongbyintention.com and follow me on Instagram @ktelizabethwellness for recipes and more.

Melissa Stolze, owner of barre3 Des Peres - I love my Lola blanket because it’s incredibly soft and comforting. It’s perfect for relaxing while reading my favorite book, “Let Them” by Mel Robbins, which my daughter gifted me.

Dr. Sean Bailey, ENT - I love the curated selection of great cigars and drink pairings from all over the world from the Cigar of the Month Club.

Tim Tolle, owner of Meramec Pools and Outdoors - I love Simon Sinek’s book “Start With Why” is a constant reminder that it’s difficult to know “what to” or “how to” achieve much in life without knowing WHY it matters to you.

Tom Murphy, CEO of Sonus Benefits - My favorite product of all time is Jameson Black Barrel Irish whiskey. My favorite clothing store is Jaxen Grey in Frontenac, and my favorite restaurant is Twisted Tree in Sunset Hills.

Shannon Wood, co-owner of The Method Aesthetics + Wellness - I love the nostalgic, sensory immediacy of Glasshouse Fragrances’ tree, glistening prettily with snowflakes and sparkling with the scent of freshly cut fir and spruce.

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.

FESTIVE

CRANBERRY

GIN FIZZ

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

• 2 oz gin

INGREDIENTS:

• 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.

HOLIDAY SPICED GINGERBREAD LATTE

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

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

INSTRUCTIONS:

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.