LI F E + C U LTU R E
ELEVATE TH E EVERYDAY WITH RE AGAN BREGM AN F O O D + B E V E R AG E
CH EERS TO HAPPY HOU R AT FIVE CENTRAL TR AV E L
DISCOVER LUXU RY CRU ISING AN D DI N I NG WITH O CE AN IA CRU ISES
D E C E M B E R 2 02 3
Happy Holidays The year is ending, now is the time to utilize your health insurance benefits, flex plans and Health Savings Account (HSA).
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Arts & Makers LI F E + C U LTU R E H O US T O N BAL L E T ’ S PRI N CI PAL DAN C ER K ARI NA G O NZ AL E Z EDWARD S
The
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Style Issue
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issue S T Y LE + B E AUT Y H O US T O N ’ S T REN D SE T T ERS LI F E + C U LTU R E RI D E I N S T Y L E WI T H ALT O F O O D + B E V E R AG E O P U L EN T D I N I N G AT M US A AF ER
The Foodie Issue F O O D + B E V E R AG E
S T Y LE + B E AU T Y K EN D R A S C O T T
WH ERE T O E AT & D RI N K N OW
LI F E + C U LTU R E
C EL EB R AT I N G 8 0 Y E ARS I N H O US T O N: M O L I NA’ S CAN T I NA
WO M EN O F H O US T O N
H E A LTH + W E LLN E S S
FOOD + DRINK
WEI G H T LO S S T I P S F R O M AU RE A M ED SPA
T H E U LT I M AT E M ARG ARI TA
4 Years
Celebrating
Thank you to our amazing community and advertising partners for your continued support. We celebrate this anniversary with you!
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LBJ Construction
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Laura U Design Collective
Closet Concepts HTX
Lauren Holub Photography
Compass - Alex Loyd
Leather by Val
Denman Moody Estate Planning Secrets
Martha White, REALTOR
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Montrose Med Spa
Edwards Interiors & Design
Nan and Company Properties Christie’s International Nick’s Plumbing & Air Conditioning Rhett Ross - Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty The Nash The Watermark at Houston Heights Today’s Vision River Oaks Uptown Appliance Repair Valencia’s Tex-Mex Garage
LIFESTYLE LETTER
All That Glitters
December 2023 PUBLISHER
Suzanne Schakett suzanne.schakett@citylifestyle.com EDITOR
As the year winds down and the holiday season is upon us, I want to take a moment to express our deepest appreciation for your continued support and loyalty to River Oaks Lifestyle. It's hard to believe that this year is coming to a close, and we're gearing up for an exciting 2024 ahead. In this holiday issue, we're thrilled to bring you some special features that embody the spirit of celebration, togetherness, and the joy of giving. Our cover story shines a spotlight on the talented and visionary Reagan Bregman, who is excited about the recent launch of her exquisite new jewelry line in collaboration with Shaftel Diamonds. Join us as Reagan shares her inspiration for her new venture and her family-focused plans for the holidays. If your holiday wish list includes wanderlust instead of shiny objects, there’s never been a better time than now to plan a dream vacation that combines opulence and adventure. Turn to our special feature on the ultimate luxury cruise getaway experience with Oceania Cruises and discover how you can set sail on a voyage of a lifetime, experiencing the world's most stunning destinations in unparalleled comfort and style. For many of us, the holiday season also reminds us of the importance of giving back, and we can’t be more inspired to kick off our annual CityLifestyle Giving Campaign. It's an opportunity for all of us to make a meaningful difference this holiday season. We encourage you to take a moment to scan the QR code to nominate a special individual or family in need. Together, we can brighten their holidays and spread hope. As we reflect on the past year and look forward to the new one, we're genuinely excited about the stories, experiences, and connections we'll share in 2024. Thank you for being an essential part of our community. We are steadfast in our commitment to build bridges between our local business owners and our readers like yourself. From our River Oaks Lifestyle family, we wish you and your loved ones a warm and joyful holiday season filled with cherished moments. May your coming year be a chapter filled with new opportunities, adventures, and prosperity. Cheers!
S U Z A N N E S C H A K E T T, P U B L I S H E R @RIVEROAKSLIFESTYLE
Scan QR code to visit our Instagram CIT YLIFEST YLE.COM/RIVEROAKS |
Gabi De la Rosa | gabi.delarosa@citylifestyle.com SALES DIR ECTOR
Suzanne Schakett suzanne.schakett@citylifestyle.com PUBLISHER ASSISTANTS
Kayla Shutts | kayla.shutts@citylifestyle.com Claire Sanchez | claire.sanchez@citylifestyle.com SALES SUPPORT COOR DINATOR
Savannah Schakett
Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein AD DESIGNER Whitney Lockhart LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain
Learn how to start your own publication at: citylifestyle.com//franchise Proverbs 3:5-6 River Oaks Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the River Oaks area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in River Oaks Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the
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accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.
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For information on our special advertising program for local restaurants, contact Suzanne Schakett at Suzanne.Schakett@citylifestyle.com
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DECEMBER 2023
inside the issue The Holidays & Giving Issue
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F E ATU R E D
D E PA RTM E NTS
12 Rising to the Occasion
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Lifestyle Letter
Unforgettable celebrations made easy: how Caesar Event Rentals can
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City Scene
save your next party.
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Business Monthly
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Seasonal Setups LO CA L S ERV IC E S
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Culinary Creations FO O D + B E V E R AG E
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Local Limelight LI FE + C U LT U R E
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Travel Journal T R AV EL
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Giving Back LI FE + C U LT U R E
Reagan Bregman shares insight on her life as a busy mom, entrepreneur,
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Events
and finding the right work/life balance.
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Family Care HEA LT H + WELLN E SS
16 Cheers to Happy Hour
This holiday season, Five Central offers delicious food and cocktails paired with a great atmosphere.
20 Elevate the Everyday 28 In Good Taste
Whether you're a foodie, a history buff, or an eco-conscious traveler, Oceania Cruises offers travel opportunities to cater to every taste bud.
O N T H E C OV E R
Photography: Mauricio Hernandez Just in time for the holidays, Reagan Bregman just launched a line of jewelry with Shaftel Diamonds. The busy mom and entrepreneur shares insight on her career and what projects she is looking forward to next.
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8560 Katy Freeway, Ste. 160 Houston, TX 77024 www.AceroBella.com 713.465.4800 Monday–Friday 8 am–5 pm by appointment
DECEMBER 2023
city scene
Where neighbors can see and be seen. ALEXANDER’S FINE PORTRAIT DESIGN
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WILSON PARISH
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DANIEL ORTIZ
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DANIEL ORTIZ
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ALEXANDER’S FINE PORTRAIT DESIGN JENNY ANTHILL
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WILSON PARISH
1: Lane and Chita Craft at the Studio 54 Gala benefitting Children’s Museum of Houston. 2: Jim & Kate Lykes at The Mission of Yahweh Families on a Mission Gala. 3: Samantha Kennedy, Deborah Duncan and Saula Valente at The Mission of Yahweh Families on a Mission Gala. 4: Underwriting Chairs Allison Chavez and Whitney Burns with Gala Chairs Holly Radom and Katie Arnoldy. 5: Circles of Hope Honoree David Kinder, Marie Louise Kinder and Co-chairs Christine and Blake Williams. 6: Doug Bauer, Eloise Bauer and Reagan Bauer ribbon cutting ceremony on the new Kinder Campus. 7: Abby Clark and Randi Koenig at Trees for Houston opening of the new Kinder Campus.
Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @riveroakslifestyle
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DECEMBER 2023
business monthly A round-up of exciting news from local businesses. River Oaks family creates Elizabeth Nash Scholarship Fund Scholarships are most often named in honor of someone when they have passed away, but the Nash Family has taken a different approach and created a scholarship to surprise Elizabeth Nash for her 60th birthday. They established the Elizabeth G. Nash Scholarship Fund for graduating high school students who have served as Genesys Works interns in Houston. Genesys Works’ mission is to provide pathways to career success for high school students in underserved communities. elizabethnashfoundation.org Photography Camille Manaker
French Gourmet Bakery Celebrates 50th Anniversary with Spectacular Commemorative Mural French Gourmet Bakery, a beloved institution located at 2250 Westheimer in River Oaks, is proudly celebrating its 50th anniversary with commemorative mural. This larger-than-life mural, created by Houston’s renowned French artist, Sebastien “MrD 1987” Boileau, pays homage to the bakery’s founder Chef Patrice Ramain and his enduring legacy. This stunning mural not only pays tribute to the bakery’s half-century legacy but also showcases the remarkable connection between the creative and culinary arts. fgbakery.com Photography courtesy of French Gourmet Bakery
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R isi ng to the Occ a sion Unforgettable Celebrations Made Easy: How Caesar Event Rentals Can Save Your Next Party
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S EASON A L SE T U P S | LOCAL S E RVI CE S
ARTICLE BY RIVER OAKS LIFESTYLE STAFF
offerings. The company specializes in importing high-quality products from around the world, including Indonesia and Europe, and they manufacture many of their pieces in Las Vegas. Caesar Event Rentals also prides itself on the quality and maintenance of its rental items. They take personal care of every piece of furniture, ensuring that each item is in top condition for clients. This attention to detail ensures that every event using their furniture feels like the first one. Exceptional customer service is a hallmark of Caesar Event Rentals. They provide professional advice, timely deliveries, and responsive support throughout the rental process. Their approach to clients is based on nurturing relationships rather than treating them as mere delivery addresses for furniture. The team at Caesar Event Rentals understands that choosing the right rentals, from furniture and decor to equipment and staging, can help create the desired atmosphere and ensure that guests have a memorable experience.
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF CAESAR EVENT RENTALS
When it comes to hosting a party or event, countless details must be taken care of. From deciding on the menu to creating the perfect ambiance, planning a successful gathering can be overwhelming, especially during the holiday season. One aspect of party planning that is often overlooked is the importance of event rentals. Party rentals can enhance a celebration in several ways. They provide a carefree experience, including setup and breakdown, allowing hosts to focus on enjoying the event and socializing with guests. Convenience is another advantage. Rentals offer practical solutions, including tents, tables, chairs, and dinnerware, ensuring guests are comfortable and the event runs smoothly. The versatility of rentals allows for flexibility in design and layout, accommodating different themes, styles, and guest numbers. Houston-based Caesar Event Rentals has a unique inventory, offering a diverse selection of specialty furniture and decor not readily available elsewhere. Some of their furniture is even designed by their team, adding an exclusive touch to their
D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / R I V E R OA KS
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$3,295,900
2111 Troon Road
Meet The Elite Team
This majestic European villa in River Oaks merges vintage charm with modern luxury and has a hilltop setting that offers unparalleled views, gourmet kitchen, spa-like primary retreat, and a 3000+ bottle wine cellar.
Beckie Martinez is a seasoned realtor in Houston’s luxury market, known for her client relationships and work with her daughters, Rebecca and Jennifer, in The Elite Team. She prioritizes integrity in her profession.
Listed by Luanne Marshall (832) 419-0685 luanne.marshall@nanproperties.com
R E A LT O R A S S O CIATES
(832) 860-8644 beckie.martinez@nanproperties.com
Our Clients Say It Best! In a short 14 days, our agent with Nan and Company Properties assisted in closing 3 varied properties: a townhouse in Rice Military, a mid-rise condo across from the beautiful Buffalo Bayou, and a home on acreage in a country estate neighborhood. I strongly recommend Nan and Company Properties and their team of extremely talented agents. J. Jones
Meet Andrea Turtur
R EA LT O R A SSO C I AT E
Andrea is an established and highly dedicated Houston real estate expert with 25 years of experience, known for her client-centric approach. She is also actively involved in philanthropic causes.
(713) 998-4105 andrea.turtur@nanproperties.com
7 1 3.71 4. 6454
@nanproperties | nanproperties.com
Honestly, there isn’t enough good things I could say about them. They got us into our beautiful new first home within a month or two and supported us every step of the way. Whether it’s selling, buying, renting, anything. We are so happy we chose Nan and Company Properties! J. Rodriguez
#1 and #2 in Total Sales and Transactions by HBJ, 2022
R E N O VAT I O N | I N T E R I O R S 7 1 3 . 5 2 2 . 0 8 5 5 | W W W. L AU R AU. C O M
Cheers to Happy Hour
The Chop
ARTICLE BY RIVER OAKS LIFESTYLE STAFF PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF FIVE CENTRAL Parmesan Chicken Bites
Creole Salmon
THIS HOLIDAY SEASON, FIVE CENTRAL OFFERS DELICIOUS FOOD AND COCKTAILS PAIRED WITH A GREAT ATMOSPHERE.
During the holidays, there’s nothing quite like getting together with friends for a festive happy hour. At Five Central, the atmosphere is buzzing with seasonal cheer, and it’s the perfect spot to unwind and celebrate the season. Five Central Houston is truly a one-stop destination in River Oaks with five different concepts, all under one roof. Upper Kirby Bistro is a casual neighborhood favorite, Downing Street Social Club is a cigar club with a smoking lounge, Elie features a wine bar and venue space, XX3 is a craft cocktail bar and the Red Peacock is a live music lounge. Diners
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C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE
Coconut Curry Chicken Wings
Smokehouse Bistro Burger
Seafood Cake
can experience all five venues without the hassle of leaving the premises or finding parking. At Five Central, there’s no need to commit to a full entree when there’s an enticing array of appetizers on the menu that are just as satisfying. It’s an appetizer lover’s dream come true. Stuffed shrimp, wings, calamari – you name it, they’ve got it. The choices are endless, and they cater to every palate. Friends can mix and match their favorites while sipping on handcrafted cocktails. Those looking for heartier fare are in luck, - Upper Kirby Bistro offers burgers, seafood and pasta dishes as well as tantalizing sides. fivecentralhouston.com
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Houston: Life is full of moments that matter. We can help you get ready for that next moment. Christyna S Lewis Financial Advisor
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5120 Woodway Dr #5006 Houston, TX 77056 © Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate LLC. Better Homes and Gardens® is a registered trademark of Meredith Corporation licensed to Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate LLC. Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Each Franchise is Independently Owned and Operated. If your property is currently listed with a real estate broker, please disregard. It is not our intention to solicit the offerings of other real estate brokers.
RIVER OAKS LIFESTYLE™ D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / R I V E R OA KS
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ARTICLE BY GABI DE LA ROSA
Photo by Mauricio Hernandez
Elevate the Everyday REAGAN BREGMAN SHARES INSIGHTS ON HER LIFE AS A BUSY MOM, ENTREPRENEUR, AND FINDING THE RIGHT WORK/LIFE BALANCE. Reagan Bregman has people talking, not about her adorable son Knox or the Astros’ postseason run, but about her new partnership with Shaftel Diamonds. The busy wife, mom, and entrepreneur just launched a line of jewelry called With Love by Reagan Bregman. Just in time for the holiday season, shoppers can get their hands on an array of necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and rings. The 14-piece collection has a minimal aesthetic and is made with 18-karat gold vermeil and natural white sapphires. “I had a busy, on-the-go woman in mind when I created this line. I was always looking for higher quality pieces so they would last me longer,” said Bregman. “I wanted something elevated, dainty, and easy for anyone to throw on and go about their day.” Bregman, who plans to add to the collection with colored sapphire gameday pieces, says everything in the initial With Love launch has special meaning behind it and was inspired by her family and son. She added that working with Shaftel Diamonds made the design process easy. “We could see the
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LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | L IFE + CULTURE
"Ha v i ng a ca ree r f u l f i l l s m e , a n d so d o e s m oth e rh ood , b ut th e re i s a l ot th a t go e s i nt o it – way m ore th a n peo pl e s ee f rom th e out s i d e ." – Reaga n Bregm a n
Reagan with son, Knox. Photo by The Rosemary Hen Photography
CONTINUED >
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Photo courtesy of Reagan Bregman
Photo courtesy of Reagan Bregman
The Bregmans celebrating Knox’s first birthday. Photo by Dayton Box Photography
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LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | L IFE + CULTURE
With Love by Reagan Bregman is composed of 14 custom 18 karat gold vermeil with natural white sapphire pieces with a minimal aesthetic meant for easy styling. Photo by Mauricio Hernandez
CONTINUED > D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / R I V E R OA KS
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Photo by Mauricio Hernandez
CAD designs in the office, and they could make samples there. Every piece of jewelry came from drawings I made and conversations we had – they helped bring my vision to life.” Although Bregman’s latest jewelry collaboration is one of her top priorities, she is looking forward to partnering with businesses that are experts at what they do in the coming year. She recently worked with the streetwear brand Municipal and is excited about working more with Texas favorite H-E-B. Admitting that she has wanted to start a business since she was ten, Bregman is focused on taking her time and learning from her first venture as founder and CEO of the athleisure brand, Exiza, which is shuttering at the end of the year. “With Exiza coming to a close, I am trying to learn what I can and grow from that,” she says. “I put so much into it, so it is really sad, but I am trying to look at it positively. It is where my entrepreneurial journey began, but I am definitely not done yet.” Bregman, who works six days a week between oneyear-old Knox’s nap times and periodic help from family, says she wouldn’t be able to balance working and mom life without a strong support system. She has spent the past year learning how to have a satisfying career – something she can call her own. “Having a career fulfills me, and so does motherhood, but there is a lot that goes into it – way more than people see from the outside,” she says. “Especially with Alex’s baseball schedule, travel, and the late nights. Everything has pros and cons – it’s about figuring out what that balance is and being fulfilled in both areas.” These days, during the offseason, juggling work and family time gets a tad bit easier. Bregman is all about soaking up family moments with Alex and Knox. The trio are making travel plans and loving every second of enjoying a slower pace of life for the next few months.
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LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | L IFE + CULTURE
DISCOVER T H E NA SH HOUSTON Where Modern American cuisine meets laid-back sophistication. Located downtown in the historic Star, formerly the Texaco Building, our stunning space creates the perfect atmosphere for lunch, happy hour, and dinner. The Nash Houston is more than a restaurant; it’s an experience waiting for you. Come dine with us today!
TheNashHouston.com 713.222.6274 1111 Rusk St, Suite 172 Houston TX 77002
EMAIL INFO@JBARMBBQ.COM OR VISIT JBARMBBQ.COM FOR MORE INFO (713) 534-1024
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GUESTS CAN EXPECT TO SEE SOME OF MUSIC'S GREATEST EMERGING TALENT FEATURED ON OUR NEWLY RENOVATED 4,500SQFT PATIO WITH A 16-FOOT STAGE.
The Grand Dining Room on Vista features stunning architecture and attention to detail.
In Good Taste Whether you're a foodie, a history buff, or an eco-conscious traveler, Oceania Cruises offers travel opportunities to cater to every taste bud. ARTICLE BY GABI DE LA ROSA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY OCEANIA CRUISES
Cruising the open waters has always been a unique adventure, a journey that is both intimate and excellent for making memories. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the cruise line, and it is also a year highlighted by anticipation and excitement because Oceania Cruises welcomed its seventh ship, Vista, in May. This new addition to the fleet redefines luxury cruising and is already creating a stir among cruise enthusiasts worldwide. Vista’s arrival also sets the stage for her sister ship, Allura, to debut in the spring of 2025.
The combination of two vital elements, cuisine and travel, distinguishes Oceania Cruises from other cruise lines as culinary excellence is a signature characteristic of the brand. They have proudly earned the title of serving “The Finest Cuisine at Sea,” and that is not just a slogan; it’s the philosophy around which their entire business revolves. Food is not just an aspect of their journey; it is the foundation on which their ships are built and the destinations they explore. The O-class ships, Marina and Riviera, were created by foodies for foodies, offering the world’s first-ever cooking school at sea. CONTINUED >
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T R AV E L J OU R N A L | TR AVE L
Oceania's newest ship Vista, in Santorini.
Vista Waves Grill
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“Our carefully curated diverse range of shore excursions, plus the relaxing home-away-from-home ambiance on board our boutique ships, offers the perfect luxury vacation choice.” – Frank A. Del Rio, President of Oceania Cruises
This concept has been further evolved with the introduction of Vista and Allura, promising even more inspiring culinary experiences. The R-class ships - Nautica, Sirena, Regatta, and Insignia - boast a selection of specialty restaurants and the Grand Dining Room, where guests can savor fine dining. For those seeking a more exclusive experience, Oceania Cruises offers private fine dining experiences such as Privée and La Reserve, which are meticulously curated for food connoisseurs. As the only true “foodie” ships worldwide, Oceania Cruises features more galley space and fresh food storage than any other cruise line. The percentage of culinary personnel dedicated to enhancing the dining experience is unmatched. There’s one chef for every ten guests, and half of the onboard crew is focused on cooking and serving delicious meals. Attention to detail is the secret behind Oceania Cruises’ culinary excellence. Every dish is prepared to order, using only the freshest ingredients. Oceania’s croissants are an example of the lengths they go to for every dish. Flour custom-milled in France to exact specifications produces the finest croissants, while butter with over 80% butterfat ensures that their croissants are unrivaled, whether enjoyed on land or at sea. Oceania Cruises also places a premium on the aesthetics and condition of their ships. The OceaniaNEXT initiative is the brand’s ongoing commitment to evolve the onboard experience. From new dining experiences and reimagined menus to dramatic updates of entire ships, Oceania Cruises tries to elevate every facet of the guest experience. The goal is clear - when
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T R AV E L J OU R N A L | TR AVE L
guests return, they should find the experience even better than before. This cruise line offers a home-awayfrom-home as guests explore the diverse cultures and landscapes of the world. With more than 600 marquee and boutique ports on the itinerary, Oceania Cruises’ small, luxury ships travel to destinations across Europe, Alaska, Asia, Africa, Australia, New Zealand, New EnglandCanada, Bermuda, the Caribbean, the Panama Canal, Tahiti, and the South Pacific. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an eco-conscious traveler, Oceania Cruises offers inspiring travel opportunities to cater to every taste bud. After days of exploring and adventure, Oceania Cruises’ guests can indulge in various wellness offerings onboard to relax and enhance their journey. The Aquamar Spa and Vitality Center provide a selection of wellness encounters beyond traditional spa treatments, incorporating Oceania Cruises’ hallmark offerings of exquisitely crafted cuisine, curated travel experiences, and small ship luxury. In 2024, Oceania Cruises invites travelers to embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey through the Mediterranean. Sailing from iconic cities such as Rome, Barcelona, Lisbon, Athens, and London, Oceania Cruises offers carefully curated voyages aboard its ships, including Vista. These trips promise an opportunity to delve into the rich history, ancient cultures, delectable cuisine, and time-honored traditions of the Mediterranean. With a choice of 94 itineraries and hundreds of small-group, immersive shore excursions, Oceania Cruises opens doors to savor la dolce vita. oceaniacruises.com
Oceania's newest ship Vista, in the Baltic.
Owner's Suite bathroom.
All of Oceania's ships feature gorgeous panoramic views.
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T O US , IT’S ABOUT YOU 832-203-8161 | closetconceptshtx.com Call for a free design consultation or visit our showroom
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Don’t just imagine the good life. Live it. Come for a visit to discover our refined residences, upscale dining, salon and spa, state-of-the-art fitness center, and more—even an on-site golf simulator and views of the downtown Houston skyline. Sophisticated and luxurious, where every aspect of life is elevated, elegant, and all about you with month-tomonth payments and no buy in ... this is senior living at The Watermark at Houston Heights. Call 281-241-5319 today to schedule your private tour. Visit watermarkhoustonheights.com to learn more.
watermarkhoustonheights.com | 281-241-5319 1245 West 18th Street, Houston, TX 77008
ID# 308617 23-HWH-7142A
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The City Lifestyle
Giving Campaign
2023 34
G IV IN G BAC K | L IFE + CULTURE
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This Giving Campaign is all about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”
The annual City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is in its 4th year. Last holiday season we gave away over $300,000 to help 116 individuals and families in need, but we need your help to make it happen again this year. With nominations flooding in from community members and leaders such as judges, police officers, teachers, nurses, social workers, mentors and readers like you, we were able to reach people who might otherwise go unnoticed. Perhaps you know of a single parent struggling to provide for their family, an elderly person who has experienced loss, someone enduring a health issue, a co-worker suffering a sudden, unexpected tragedy or a neighbor with a financial hardship who has fallen between the cracks of getting assistance. Chances are you know someone with a specific need, even if no one else does. “We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them during this holiday season.” “We believe God has blessed our company with continued success, so we in turn want to be a blessing to others,” Matthew Perry, President of City Lifestyle adds. City Lifestyle has also enacted an internal giving program whereby every employee in the company receives $100 to give away to someone in the community. “The idea is to encourage our employees to keep giving on their own,” Steven says. “Taking care of one another and blessing others is truly rewarding and it perpetuates a cycle of giving. It’s extremely important to me as a person and as a company to foster a culture of generosity.”
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Nominate Nominations accepted Nov. 27 – Dec. 10, 2023
Follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram for reminders! To submit a nomination, follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram and fill out the form found in the bio link. All entries will be read, and because this is not a raffle, there is no need to nominate someone more than once. The amount given to each recipient will be based on need. All nominations and recipients will be kept confidential. D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / R I V E R OA KS
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DECEMBER 2023
events A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area. DECEMBER 1ST
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Andrés Returns
J O NE S H A L L | 8 :0 0 P M Conductor Laureate Andrés Orozco-Estrada leads Shostakovich’s cinematic, richly evocative Symphony No. 11, The Year 1905. It’s a work with important ties to Houston—the Houston Symphony gave the U.S. premiere in 1957, and released the first-ever commercial recording shortly after. Recognized as one of the great violinists of our time, the incomparable Augustin Hadelich returns with Shostakovich’s dynamic Violin Concerto No. 1.
DECEMBER 2ND
Cirque Dreams Holidaze
S MA RT F I NA NC I A L C E NT R E AT S UGA R L A ND | 4 :0 0 P M Cirque Dreams Holidaze dazzles with a brilliant and whimsical family holiday spectacular. This annual tradition wraps a Broadway-style production around an infusion of contemporary circus arts. As lights dim and the music swells, audiences will have visions of sugarplums dancing in their heads as a fantastical cast of holiday storybook characters come to life on stage.
DECEMBER 3 R D
A Christmas Carol
A L L E Y T H E AT E R | 1 :30 P M Celebrate the holidays with the Alley’s hit new adaptation with colorful Victorian costumes, special effects, lively dancing, stunning sets, and just the right blend of Christ-
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EVE N TS
mas carols. It is a dazzling Christmas feast with the beloved story of Ebenezer Scrooge and his miraculous transformation.
D E C E M BE R 9 T H
Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas
JO NES H ALL | 7:30 PM Watch one of Tim Burton’s most celebrated films like never before! The Nightmare Before Christmas will be projected in its entirety on the big screen, accompanied by Danny Elfman’s darkly charming score played live by the orchestra.
D E C E M BE R 1 0 T H
Rodger’s & Hammerstein’s Cinderella
SARO FIM H ALL | 7:30 PM For the holidays our doors burst open with all the magic of this fresh, dazzling and empowering production of the classic tale. This “Enchanted” version of the classic tale is inspired by the acclaimed teleplay starring Brandy and Whitney Houston. The timeless, magical fairy tale is reborn as a beautiful, inspiring and romantic story featuring Rodgers & Hammerstein’s most beloved songs.
D E C E M BE R 1 7 T H
For King and Country
TOYOTA CENTER | 7:00 PM Join Grammy® award-winning duo for KING + COUNTRY on December 17 for their Drummer Boy Christmas Tour. Brothers Joel and Luke will be bringing holiday cheer to Houston this Christmas season, performing Christmas classics and more like their fan favorite “Little Drummer Boy,” #1 hit single “Love Me Like I Am.”
Wishing you and your family a happy holiday season and a prosperous 2024 Rhett and Peyton Ross West University Residents for over 20 years
Want to be featured?
Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/RiverOaks
Realtor-Associate® Circle of Excellence 823-483-0756 rhett.ross@sothebys.realty D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / R I V E R OA KS
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Merry & Bright ARTICLE BY RIVER OAKS LIFESTYLE STAFF
OUR FRIENDS AT THE WATERMARK AT HOUSTON HEIGHTS SHARE TIPS ON HOW TO BRING CHEER THIS HOLIDAY TO A FAMILY MEMBER IN ASSISTED LVIING
WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO PROVIDE EMOTIONAL SUPPORT FOR SOMEONE IN SENIOR CARE DURING THE HOLIDAY SEASON? While the holidays can be a joyful and highly anticipated time of year, once-beloved traditions can cause depression, confusion, and frustration, especially for those living with cognitive change. It’s common for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia to become overwhelmed in social situations, leading them to emotionally and physically withdraw from loved ones. Before the holiday season, it’s important for families and friends to discuss their loved one’s current interests with care associates and be willing to amend certain traditions to accommodate their needs better. For instance, rather than a full day of holiday shopping, shorter visits to a few favorite shops can allow seniors and their loved ones to continue celebrating the joys of the season.
WHAT ARE THREE TIPS FOR MAKING THE HOLIDAYS MORE FESTIVE FOR SOMEONE IN SENIOR CARE? The Watermark at Houston Heights is committed to creating an intimate, vibrant setting where seniors thrive. During the holidays, they help residents feel the warmth of the season by celebrating their interests. Listening to favorite holiday songs can bring back many happy moments, and singing or playing music can elicit joy and relieve stress. Family and friends are encouraged to assist their loved ones in decorating their residences and share favorite customs to be celebrated with other residents and associates.
WHAT ARE SOME FUN OR PRACTICAL HOLIDAY GIFTS TO GIVE SOMEONE IN ASSISTED LIVING? The most cherished gifts for a loved one in an assisted living community can bring comfort, compassion, and enjoyment. Cozy blankets and soft socks can provide an extra layer of warmth for winter, while large print books, puzzles, or adult coloring books can inspire creativity and engagement. Above all, a heartful gift that speaks to your loved one’s interests and needs or captures beloved moments spent together will make the holiday season brighter. The Watermark at Houston Heights 1245 West 18th Street, Houston, TX 77008 281-241-5319; watermarkhoustonheights.com
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FAM ILY CA R E | HEA LTH + W E LLNE S S
LUXURY LIVING DEFINED
Alex Loyd Realtor® alex.loyd@compass.com 713.851.2521 Alex Loyd is a real estate agent affiliated with Compass. Compass is a licensed real estate broker and abides by federal, state, and local Equal Housing Opportunity laws.
Top 25 Compass Agent 2022 America’s Best | #23 in the City of Houston America’s Best | #76 in the State of Texas