Park Cities, TX December 2025

The December Issue

Give, and It Will Be Given to YOUBest to you and all of your family and friends for a Fabulous Christmas and a Joyous New Year!

Can you actually believe it is already this time of year once again - time to enjoy the beauty of Christmas as it shines through the simple joy of giving. This season reminds us all how meaningful it is to share our time, talents, and generosity with others. Across the byways throughout our Park Cities neighborhood, that spirit comes alive each year - neighbors lending a hand, families supporting local causes, and friends gathering to celebrate the blessings of our community. At its heart, Christmas is a celebration of the birth of Jesus - a moment that calls us to reflect on love, grace, and compassion. Whether it's a thoughtful gift, a warm meal, or a moment of kindness, each gesture adds light to the season. After all, the true luxury of Christmas isn’t found underneath a tree - it is found in the hearts we touch when we share our love and friendship.

This year has, of course, held its challenges as well as its celebrations. Each family, school, church, business and community has those who need an extra special hug or festive “hello” as the weeks fly by. Sharing a smile and a heartfelt greeting is often the best-gift-ever, especially when you don’t even know who you are sharing it with. Angels work in wonderful ways. Thank you for allowing us to share Park Cities Lifestyle with you all - we do sincerely wish you all a most wonderful holiday season.

2 Corinthians 8:12 - “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the father of lights, with who there is no variation or shadow to change.”

LINDA LIVINGSTON, PUBLISHER

613-7723

December 2025

PUBLISHER

Linda Livingston | linda.livingston@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Kristi Harvey | kristi.harvey@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Mark Hanna | mark.hanna@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Kelsey Kosh, David Muscari, Lauren Stone

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Gillon Property Group

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman

LAYOUT DESIGNER Lillian Gibbs

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas

Combining

Step

city scene

Timeless Beauty Awaits

Preservation Beauty, located in Park Cities, Dallas stands out as a leading aesthetic clinic offering top-tier luxury services like Sculptra, Wrinkle relaxers, Dermal fillers, Sofwave, Microneedling, Skin treatments and Medical grade skincare. We take pride in delivering natural, elegant results that help you feel your most confident in your own skin. Owner and Nurse Practitioner, Livia was placed in the top 100 best aesthetic injectors national directory through nominations by peers and clients.

As part of our ongoing commitment to enhancing your unique beauty through personalized care, we are proud to announce that we now offer Sofwave—a groundbreaking treatment in non-invasive skin rejuvenation, firming, and lifting. This FDA-cleared treatment uses Synchronous Ultrasound Parallel Beam (SUPERB) technology to stimulate collagen and elastin production beneath the surface of the skin.

business monthly

Hola HP is Gearing up for Midterm Exams!

Registration for our famous Midterm Exam Cram Sessions is now open. These 90-minute small-group sessions are designed to strengthen skills, review key concepts, and build confidence before test day. From math and science to reading and writing, our expert tutors provide targeted support and content-specific strategies to help students succeed. Secure your spot early to ensure your student feels prepared to tackle midterms! holahp.com

Klyde Warren Park Celebrated its 13th Anniversary

Klyde Warren Park celebrated its 13th anniversary in style at the annual Party in the Park fundraiser, presented by Republic National Distributing Company! Guided by Honorary Co-Chairs Debbie and John Tolleson, along with their children Amy and Peter Baldwin and Kacy and Carter Tolleson, who served as Event Co-Chairs, the evening raised more than $1.1 million and welcomed 960 guests.

North Texas’s First Women’s Professional Volleyball Team Introduces New Identity

North Texas’s first women’s professional volleyball team introduces its new identity ahead of the inaugural 2026 season. MLV Dallas embarks on a bold new chapter as the team officially becomes Dallas Pulse, revealing its dynamic new logo and confirming Comerica Center in Frisco as its home court. The announcement marks an exciting milestone as North Texas’s first women’s professional volleyball team prepares to debut in the upcoming 2026 season.  provolleyball.com

Ruthie’s makes every occasion unforgettable, from holiday parties, end of year celebrations, corporate lunches, and ugly sweater parties. Choose from private food truck catering, public pop-ups, catering at Ruthie’s Cafe, or onsite catering at your venue. Wherever you are in the Dallas Metroplex, Ruthie’s is here to make your event unforgettable. Scan the QR code above to view our catering packages.

Warm Up This Winter at Ruthie's

Cozy up with a specialty grilled cheese, a bowl of savory tomato basil soup, and a warm latte, perfect for chilly days. Whether you're grabbing a quick bite or taking a break, we've got the comfort you're craving. Good food for a good cause, swing into Ruthie's and taste the warmth of the season. Limited time only!  ruthiesforgood.com

Festivity COMBINING AND HISTORY

Warwick Melrose-Dallas Hotel is among the area’s oldest and famous for its holiday events.

ARTICLE BY KELSEY KOSH

With the same architect as Fair Park, the Dallas Municipal Building, and Dallas Country Club, the Warwick Melrose Hotel is at the heart of Dallas—both in location and historically. “The hotel opened in 1924, as the Melrose Court apartments,” says director of catering Ashley Grunska. It was converted into a hotel in the 1950s and purchased by Paris-based hospitality brand Warwick Hotels and Resorts

in 2007. “We have aspects within the hotel that tie into those Parisian roots,” Grunska says. The name of the hotel’s spa, Le Spa, is among these nods to the French.

The hotel’s architecture and design have also kept elements of its more than century-old life. “In the lobby, the floors are original to the building. In our presidential suite, when you walk into the room, there’s a wood parquet floor in the entryway as well as in the dining area, and that’s all original to the building as well. So, there’s a lot of things that are still here, living with that history,” says Grunska. It’s also kept the large room size leftover from the building’s previous life as an apartment complex. “While the rooms aren’t as large as a modern apartment, every King room offers a comfortable sitting area with two chairs, a dedicated workspace, and a vanity in the restroom—thoughtful touches that many hotels can’t accommodate due to limited space,” Grunska says.

The smallest rooms are 350 square feet, and the largest, the presidential suite, is roughly 1,500 square feet. The larger Deluxe and Presidential Suites maintain the original layout they would have had during their apartment days.

The Warwick is also a renowned venue for corporate, family, and wedding events during the holiday season and beyond. “Just to give you a sense of the season—we’ll have about 18 company holiday parties throughout December, plus quite a few holiday weddings and other festive gatherings,” Grunska says. Each event will showcase the hotel’s array of culinary options, prepared by experienced cooks and staff. Menu options include Greek or barbecue buffets for lunch, French pastries for breakfast, or plated dinners. “Our chefs

really enjoy when guests bring new ideas—it gives them the chance to get creative, try something unexpected, and design a one-of-a-kind experience,” Grunska says.

For corporate events, the hotel can even integrate a spa treatment into the day’s planned meeting schedule. “If someone wanted to incorporate a wellness break—like offering hand massages or a moment for guests to stretch and unwind—we can absolutely accommodate experiences like that as well,” Grunska says.

The Warwick also hosts several seasonal and themed events. Last year, roughly 500 people attended its Christmas brunch on Christmas morning. “It’s a big,

beautiful buffet with something for everyone,” Grunska says. “When you walk into the lobby, there’s always that big wow moment—the buffet takes center stage, and there’s a gorgeous ice sculpture for each holiday,” Grunska says. The event takes over the entire hotel including the restaurant. “We’ll have carving stations with prime rib, turkey, and all the traditional favorites, but we really expand the offerings—it takes over the entire first floor of the hotel,” Grunska says. Spa discounts and seasonal packages will be available throughout the time leading up to the holidays as well, so there truly is something for everyone.

STEP INTO THE GLOW OF

THE SEASON

EXPERIENCE THE MAGIC OF HIGHLAND PARK VILLAGE AS TWINKLING LIGHTS, HOLIDAY SHOPPING, AND FESTIVE CHEER FILL THE AIR.

Each winter, the unmistakable glow of 1.5 million twinkling lights transforms Highland Park Village into a magical holiday destination. The air hums with bells, shop windows shimmer with festive displays, and every corner feels touched by Christmas cheer. As Dallas’ most enchanting seasonal traditions, the Village invites visitors to shop, dine, and celebrate beneath its glittering canopy, savoring the simple joys that make this time of year so special.

ARTICLE BY LAUREN STONE

Aglow through mid-February, the display makes the perfect backdrop for leisurely shopping strolls, cozy date nights, and family photo ops all season long. Stop by your favorite boutiques, warm up with a latte from Bird Bakery, share a festive toast at Lounge 31, and let the glow of the season set the tone for a holiday to remember.

THE ANNUAL CHRISTMAS LIGHTS CELEBRATION & SHOPPING STROLL

A highlight of the season, the Christmas Lights Celebration and Shopping Stroll returns on Wednesday, December 10,

from 4 to 7 PM. This cherished community event captures the spirit of the holidays with exclusive store promotions, carolers, photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, balloon art, face painting, and festive treats around every corner.

Partnering with Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty, the Village creates an atmosphere that’s equal parts elegant and family-friendly—perfect for checking names off your gift list while celebrating the spirit of the season.

The evening also doubles as a chance to give back. Guests are encouraged to bring new, unwrapped toys for Community

“FOR GENERATIONS, HIGHLAND PARK VILLAGE HAS BEEN A GATHERING PLACE WHERE FAMILIES MAKE MEMORIES”

Partners of Dallas, which provides gifts to local families in need. The Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary will also be on-site, continuing their annual bell-ringing tradition throughout the holiday season.

TAKE IN SIGHTS BY CARRIAGE

Few experiences capture the magic of Highland Park during the holidays quite like a horse-drawn carriage ride. Returning for its 25th year, Threejays Carriages will offer rides through some of the neighborhood’s most breathtaking holiday light displays, beginning right at the Village’s own glittering canopy.

To make the experience even sweeter, Sadelle’s is elevating the carriage ride tradition with a festive menu designed for sipping, savoring, and celebrating. Guests can warm up with a classic hot chocolate to go—or indulge in a spiked version with Kahlúa Peppermint Mocha— perfectly paired with a seasonal pastry basket brimming with holiday cookies and treats. Those looking to toast the evening can choose from select bottles of red, white, or sparkling wine to go, while Sadelle’s branded thermoses and hats offer the perfect keepsakes to remember the night by.

GIVE, GATHER, AND GIFT IN STYLE

Beyond the shopping and sparkle, Highland Park Village also embraces the spirit of giving. On Thursday, November 20, the Village hosted a coat drive for the S.M. Wright Foundation from 8 to 10:30 AM near LoveShackFancy, collecting new and gently used coats for children and adults in need. It’s this blend of generosity and community that defines the season at Highland Park Village.

Of course, gifting is made effortless here, too. Many boutiques offer exclusive holiday collections, pop-ups, and limited-edition pieces, while the Village’s complimentary personal shopping service makes it easy to find something special for everyone on your list. Guests can meet with stylists in a private salon space for tailored gift guidance, wardrobe styling, or even help curating a holiday wish list.

Dining options add another layer of delight. From seasonal cocktails at Bistro 31 to festive dinners at Honor Bar or Café Pacific, each restaurant brings its own flavor to the festivities.

For generations, Highland Park Village has been a gathering place where families make memories that last long after the lights come down. Whether it’s a family photo beneath the Christmas tree, a quiet dinner under the lights, or a cheerful evening stroll with cocoa in hand, the Village invites everyone to experience the joy of the holidays in true Highland Park style— timeless, elegant, and full of heart.

GIFT GUIDE

GOODNESS

Searching for something special for a special someone?

ARTICLE BY DAVID MUSCARI

Looking for a next-generation private club that combines top-tier racquet sports with hospitality, wellness, cuisine, and culture? Welcome to Banner House at T Bar M. Opened in 2025, the facilities include outdoor hard courts with a stadium-style court, indoor hard courts, clay courts, pickleball, and a seasonal grass court, plus a fitness center, spa, lively social spaces, and fine dining. The BannerHouse.com

The West Lover’s Lane business is an indispensable resource for all things home-related. Restoring heirlooms, reimagining living spaces, or entire homes, designers bring a detail-driven experience to their clients. Steffanie Evans bought Rutherford’s in 2023, continuing the time-tested values combined with her own style and innovation, a combination of artful curation, expert design, and lovely holiday gift ideas. RutherfordsDesign.com

Noted chef Nick Badovinus’ restaurant takes inspiration from his hometown of Seattle with ceviche, fish and chips, chowder, Salmon, Branzino, and more. Their raw bar features oysters, smoked Salmon, Ahi Tuna, and Dungeness crab. Named after a shipping channel that runs through Seattle, it’s a tasty spot to sip, nosh, and watch the world float by. FlavorHookDallas.com

Enhancing beauty through personalized care: local beauty guru Livia Perez takes a unique consultative approach to her med spa services. As a nurse practitioner, her work is rooted in smart science and experience, offering a variety of treatments with advice that addresses both health and wellness. PreservationBeautyClinic.com

Golf carts aren’t limited to the links. Streetlegal carts are revolutionizing travel with technology, comfort, safety, and convenience. The company dedicates itself to on-site maintenance and white-glove service, which makes owning and maintaining a golf cart “hassle-free.” FamilyGolfCarts.com

Specializing in conferences, headshots, high-profile corporate events, and family portraiture, perfect for a special holiday gift, former White House photographer Grant Miller and his team of professionals deliver brilliant quality and service. Trusted by presidents, world leaders, and top executives, they bring exceptional skill and professionalism to every assignment, no matter how large or small the assignment. GrantMillerPhotography.com

Corient Welcomes Messick Peacock Advisors

Corient is one of the largest integrated fee-only RIAs in the United States. We combine the service, creativity and objective advice of a boutique with the power of experienced advisors, extensive capabilities and custombuilt strategies to create a differentiated wealth management experience.

Advisory services are offered through Corient Private Wealth LLC a registered investment adviser (“RIA”) regulated by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). For a complete discussion of the scope of advisory services offered, fees, and other disclosures, please review the RIA’s Disclosure Brochure (Form ADV Part 2A) and Form CRS, available upon request from the RIA and online at https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/. 4695645-July 2025

ARTICLE BY DAVID MUSCARI

Duel Performance offers unique “in-home” personalized training and wellness services, plus valuable fitness and savvy culinary tips to consider during the holiday season.

Wade Lewis, Owner and CEO Duel Performance

WHERE TRAINING ENDS, AND LIFESTYLE BEGINS

Sometimes the toughest part of staying healthy isn’t the workout itself. It’s finding the time to do it, says Duel Performance CEO and driving force, Wade Lewis.

“That’s why our mission is to create time for clients by bringing premium personal training and wellness directly into their home and adapting to whatever life throws their way,” he says.

Founded in 2019, Duel brings a fully equipped mobile gym to appointments, ensuring the same quality workout in-home as in a fitness facility, with individualized programs that adapt to each client’s lifestyle and goals.

“We also train clients in office gyms and partner with clubs at select hotels and condos, giving clients complete flexibility,” Lewis says.

He points to Duel’s multi-pronged wellness partnerships, collaborations with physical and massage therapists, medical professionals, and even private chefs, as key differentiators. “It’s less like a service and more like a partnership,” says Lewis.

“We meet people where they are in their fitness journey and help them move toward a healthier lifestyle, even if all they have is the willpower to improve just 1%; that’s still progress, and progress compounds.”

Lewis’s devotion to premium personalization runs throughout the entire company. “The goal is for our clients to simply open the door when it’s time to work out, and everything else is taken care of,” says Lewis.

Duel focuses on flexible scheduling, consistent workouts, and a genuine connection between client and trainer. Lewis believes removing barriers and making fitness more convenient gives people the confidence, energy, and consistency to thrive in every part of their lives.

“In the Park Cities, for example, community trust and personal recommendations carry a lot of weight. For a community that values excellence and privacy, we’ve found that neighbors

sharing their experience is the most authentic introduction we could ask for.”

Staying fit during the holidays is always a challenge.

Lewis suggests starting a routine before the season starts. “Then you’ll already have a foundation to be flexible with,” he says.

“However, it may not be realistic to work out as often or eat as clean as you’d like when comfort foods are everywhere. And that’s fine.”

Lewis encourages sidestepping calorie traps, like creamy casseroles, fried appetizers, and sugary cocktails, opting for festive substitutions, or roasted vegetables or sweet potatoes with nutmeg and cinnamon to replace heavy sides.

“Lean proteins like turkey or salmon are good alternatives to red meat-heavy main courses, and sparkling mocktails with cranberry, rosemary, or citrus offer a healthier option beyond sugary drinks.”

CONTINUED >

Another effective tip: light intermittent fasting during the holidays.

Since most eating happens in the afternoon and evening, starting the day with a fast and a detox-style beverage can help balance intake. “One favorite combines lemon water, turmeric, cinnamon, and cayenne to naturally help regulate blood glucose, flush toxins, and reduce bloating.”

“WE MEET PEOPLE WHERE THEY ARE IN THEIR FITNESS JOURNEY AND HELP THEM MOVE TOWARD A HEALTHIER LIFESTYLE, EVEN IF ALL THEY HAVE IS THE WILLPOWER TO IMPROVE JUST 1%; THAT’S STILL PROGRESS, AND PROGRESS COMPOUNDS.”

A fasting window could be from 8 p.m. to 10 a.m., or for even more flexibility, just avoid carbs between 7 p.m. and 7 a.m. “This encourages mindfulness without requiring strict food tracking or making you feel like a burden to the cook,” he says.

Duel suggests healthy twists on holiday classics, like cauliflower mash instead of potatoes, or dark-chocolate-dipped fruit instead of pie.

The goal isn’t to eliminate celebration but to enjoy the season without losing ground, says Lewis.

“A straightforward guideline we give clients: limit indulgence to one plate or one glass, balanced with smarter choices, so when January rolls around, you’re starting ahead rather than feeling behind.”

Lewis suggests flexibility with fitness routines during the holidays. He tells clients the most realistic way to stay accountable is to move.

A walk with the kids, hopping on a treadmill for 20-30 minutes, or adjusting early-morning workouts to later in the day can help.

“The key,” says Lewis, “is flexibility.”

For more information, contact Wade.  817.975.2326

GET INSPIRED EAT & DRINK

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

DECEMBER 2ND

Elena’s Children’s Park Tree Lighting

Elena’s Children’s Park | 6:00 PM

For many years, residents from across the Park Cities have convened at the local green space to remember children who are no longer with us. The gathering features short remarks, holiday carols, and the lighting of a holiday tree. The Park is located at the intersection of Boedeker and Hanover. UPTexas.org

DECEMBER 4TH

Andrea Bocelli

American Airlines Center | 8:00 PM

He has a unique ability to elegantly merge classical opera and pop music into one, big, beautiful sound. The renowned Italian tenor is considered among the greatest contemporary performers with a fan base that extends around the world.

AmericanAirlinesCenter.com

DECEMBER 5TH - 14TH

The Gift of Christmas

Prestonwood Baptist Church (Plano)

Check the website for times

With the polish of a lavish Broadway production, the annual showcase draws huge audiences to witness the 1000-person cast bringing the story of Christmas to life in breathtaking fashion. PrestonwoodGOC.org

DECEMBER 6TH

Dallas Holiday Parade

Downtown Dallas | 9:00 AM

Since the 1980s, the large parade has been a colorful staple on the streets of Big D, featuring dancers, marching bands, vibrant floats, and, naturally, a special appearance by jolly old St. Nick. DallasHolidayParade.com

DECEMBER 6TH

Crystal Charity Ball

Hilton Anatole | 7:00 PM

Since 1952, the glitzy event has been an annual centerpiece benefiting a diverse range of children’s charities in Dallas County. Members of the renowned local nonprofit have distributed more than $198 million to 160 worthy beneficiaries over the past 73 years. CrystalCharity.org

DECEMBER 12TH - 21ST

Christmas Pops,

Dallas Symphony

Meyerson Symphony Center | Thurs 7:30 p.m., Fri 7:30 p.m., Sat 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m., Sun 2 p.m.

The cherished holiday tradition continues with uplifting anthems, classic holiday favorites, sing-along carols, Santa Claus, and a touch of indoor snow, too. Featured performers include Dallas favorites soprano Jasmine Habersham, baritone Reginald Smith, Jr., and organist Bradley Hunter Welch. DallasSymphony.org

CONTINUED >

Warwick Melrose – Dallas captures both the glamour and romance of yesteryear and the excitement of tomorrow with two exquisite ballrooms As the site of Uptown Dallas’s grandest weddings since 1924, it is an intimate place, where time is preserved whilst everything feels wonderfully in the moment.

CONTINUED

DECEMBER 18TH - 19TH

Student Early Release (7-12 Thursday, K-12 Friday) HPISD

DECEMBER 22ND - JANUARY 2ND Winter Break/No Classes HPISD

DECEMBER 31ST

Reunion Tower NYE

Downtown Dallas | 11:59 PM

The 360-degree panoramic fireworks show features pyrotechnics and special effects displayed by the downtown Dallas tower’s hundreds of LED lights as thousands gather to watch in person, while more tune in to the local TV broadcast. ReunionTower.com

Meet your Dallas

Commercial Lending Team

At American National Bank & Trust, our commercial lending team is dedicated to helping businesses grow with confidence. We offer flexible financing solutions designed to fit your company’s unique needs. Whether you’re expanding operations, upgrading equipment, purchasing property, or managing day-to-day cash flow, we’re here to help. Let us partner in your financial success. Our team is deeply rooted in serving the Greater Dallas community.

Ranger Ridge in Strawn, Texas is where wild beauty meets refined living. Imagine a zebra strolling past your porch. Now stop imagining and make it your reality This private, gated ranch community offers breathtaking views, luxury amenities, and the rare chance to build your own custom home surrounded by freeroaming exotic wildlife. From private memberships and guided hunts to a world-class clubhouse, shooting range, equestrian center, and guest cabins, Ranger Ridge is more than a neighborhood it’s an elevated lifestyle. For those who crave both adventure and elegance, this is where the Texas frontier meets high-end living.