Madison, AL December 2025

It's The Holiday Season

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

In a season that has become known for its hustle and bustle, isn't it nice to slow down and be still. Creating allows us time to be still. It allows us time to bring beauty and something tangible into this world.

In our first issue you will find the story of an Alabama business rooted in land, legacy, and creation. You will also read about creating the holiday tradition of a Gingerbread House party as well as some of our favorite gift ideas.

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

Long. Live. Print.

AMY BAILEY, PUBLISHER

December 2025

PUBLISHER

Amy Bailey | amy.bailey@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Casey Creque | casey.creque@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Susan Rogers | susan.rogers@citylifestyle.com

COPY EDITOR

Mary Nell Cole

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Jessica Aguirre-Cantrell

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe

LAYOUT DESIGNER Jayme Emery

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.

Proverbs 3:5-6

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

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

DECEMBER

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: Dwight and Sharonda Ware Bollywood Night benefitting Aum Foundation 2: Amy Arnold, Lisa Whitehurst, Alka Bhargav, Alexa Huerta

Bollywood Night benefitting Aum Foundation 3: Jason and Kelly Denny, Leila and Dwayne Moorehouse Make A Wish Gala 4: Valerie CunninghamTrainer, Leila Moorehouse, Alyssa Thomas Make A Wish Gala 5: Leila and Dwayne Moorehouse, Chris and Brandie Weidman Make A Wish Gala 6: Wish Kid Maizy Phillips Make A Wish Gala 7: Demetria Green , Kim Caudle Lewis, Rhonda Gilyard Bollywood Night benefitting Aum Foundation

GET COZY IN ALABAMA COTTON

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

“Red Land grows the cotton, then spins, weaves, finishes and sews it into bed and bath products entirely in the USA, inspired by the feel and durability of vintage linens passed down through families.”

What is the mission of Red Land Cotton?

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

How does Red Land Cotton work with Alabama's land to create its products?

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

pride, staying true to our commitment to keep production as local as possible.

Favorite aspect of farming?

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

Tell me about your Alabama home and what living in this state has meant to you?

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

What all products do you currently offer?

At Red Land Cotton, we offer a full line of heirloom-inspired, American-made linens for the home. Our bedding collection includes sheet sets in a variety of sizes and colors, duvet covers, blankets, quilts, pillowcases, and shams. In the bath category, we offer bath towels, hand towels, washcloths, and bath sheets. Everything is crafted with the same attention to quality and detail. We also offer a range of home and lifestyle goods including throw blankets,

baby products, tea towels, and golf towels. Additionally, we create seasonal and limited-edition collaborations, such as our Tunnel to Towers blanket, to honor meaningful causes and share our values through our products.

Where do you see Red Land Cotton in 5 years?

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

What are your favorite memories growing up in Alabama?

I loved my childhood growing up in the middle of a farm. My brothers and I played outside and in the fields

without any care in the world. I loved the Alabama vs Auburn themed days growing up in school. I love the barbecue here and the sweet people. My fondest memory of growing up in Alabama is attending Auburn University. It was a truly special and transformative four years for me. I met some of my best friends, I met my husband and I studied a craft in Graphic Design that would propel me to where I am today.

Favorite memory from being in business as Red Land Cotton?

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

Visit and shop Red Land Cotton at Redlandcotton.com.

Gingerbread Party Time

There is something about the glow of the holiday season that feels like magic. Some of the most special gifts are found in family traditions we have created and in welcoming others into our home. I have always wanted to give that same feeling to my children, to show them that the true beauty of Christmas is not in perfection, but in presence, connection, and shared joy. I have always loved the magic of the season and wanted to create it, foster it, and share it with others.  Sometimes, that magic begins simply by opening your door and giving friends and family something special to look forward to. Hosting has become my favorite way to slow down the rush of the holidays and fill our home with warmth and the comfort of belonging. They say the days are long but the years are short. In the busyness of life, I have learned to pause and make room for the moments that become the heart of our family’s story.

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

ARTICLE BY JESSICA AGUIRRE-CANTRELL

but it has become one of our most treasured family traditions.  It is truly a family effort. My husband, Billy, helps me build all of the gingerbread houses, carefully holding the walls in place while I pipe the icing that hardens like cement. Our children help us pick out the candies and happily serve as the official taste-testers. Each year, I reuse the same tablecloths, a familiar backdrop for the magic to unfold. Glass dishes are filled to the brim with candies, peppermints, gumdrops, chocolate drops, and sprinkles in every shade. I make sure everything is ready to go before our guests arrive so that the moms can walk in and simply enjoy the moment with their daughters. It is a small gift I hope feels as sweet to them as the treats on the table. I always add something unique, like braided marshmallows or pastel Christmas candies. The girls giggle as they decorate, carefully placing each candy piece, showing off their designs, and sneaking a few bites in between.

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

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

Though I know the details will change, my hope is that this tradition continues, that my daughter will

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

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

CREATE LASTING HOLIDAY MEMORIES WITH A SIMPLE, JOY-FILLED TRADITION.

How to Host Your Own Gingerbread House Party

1. Invitations

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

2. Tables and Chairs

Rent or borrow child-sized tables and chairs so the little ones can easily decorate. It feels intimate, and it ensures all the candies

are within reach. The girls love seeing each other’s creations and sitting side by side.

3. Table Setup

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

4. Candy and Dishes

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

5. Premade Houses

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

6. Royal Icing

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

Royal Icing Recipe:

• ½ cup liquid egg whites or 2 large egg whites

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

• ½ teaspoon cream of tartar

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

7. Snacks and Drinks

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

8. Enjoy the Magic

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

“I have always wanted to give that same feeling to my children, to show them that the true beauty of Christmas is not in perfection, but in presence, connection, and shared joy.”

My Favorite Things

Plush Throw

Who doesn’t love something to snuggle with? Give the gift of warmth with this plush throw from Design Theory Interiors, Provience @designtheoryinteriors.

Christmas Watercolor Book

Give the gift of creativity with this watercolor notebook from Design Theory Interiors, Providence @designtheoryinteriors.

Prada Handbag

Add a little luxury to your holiday list with this black Prada clutch from Queen Bee of Beverly Hills, Whitesburg Drive @luxuryfinders.

Imagine a perfectly wrapped small package with these gorgeous Fendi FF Crystal Embellished Gold Hoop Earrings from Queen Bee of Beverly Hills, Whitesburg Drive @luxuryfinders.

The perfect gift for a friend comes in the form of artwork. These beautifully done mini paintings are something your friends and loved ones will cherish, Design Theory Interiors, Providence @designtheoryinteriors.

WINTER in a glass

HOLIDAY COCKTAILS & COZY CREATIONS

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

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.

INSTRUCTIONS:

INGREDIENTS:

• 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.

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

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.

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.

events

THROUGH DECEMBER 15TH

Madison Hot Cocoa Stroll

Main Street | 5:30 PM

Presented by the Madison Chamber of Commerce, local businesses will offer free hot cocoa and samples with opportunities for shoppers to win prizes and gifts.

DECEMBER 1ST

Christmas Card Lane

| 5:00 PM

Stroll through historic downtown Madison to see over 30 life-size Christmas cards created by local artists displayed in front of historic homes.

DECEMBER 6TH-JANUARY 2ND

Polar Express Christmas on Main

Main Street | 6:00 PM

Downtown Madison will be decorated with trees lining the historic streets. The official lighting ceremony will be December 6th and will include Santa, music and other festive activities.

DECEMBER 6TH

Madison Christmas Parade

Hughes Road at Plaza Drive | 9:00 AM

This year's theme is "The Songs of Christmas" and it will be a day of fun for the whole family!

DECEMBER 8TH

Madison Roundhouse Christmas Open House

Historic Roundhouse on Front Street | 3:00 PM

The Madison Station Historical Preservation Society will host tan open house for all to see the Roundhouse on Front Street.

DECEMBER 11TH

The Nutcracker

Mark C. Smith Concert Hall | 7:00 PM

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

Brian May, Real Estate Advisor, Director of Regional Sales

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

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

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

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

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