Saddleback, CA December 2025

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Dance

December14-21, 2025

The Nutcracker | Olaf’s Holiday Musical

Step into the magic of the season with South Coast Conservatory’s Winter Festival

The Happiest of Holidays To You!

The holidays are in full swing, and it's time to soak up all the magic that December brings — the twinkle of lights, the joy of family traditions, and the warmth of spending time with loved ones. December has always been one of my favorite months of the year.

This issue truly has something for everyone -- from our holiday gift guide featuring vibrant local businesses, each with its own unique charm and offerings, to festive tips on decorating, creating the perfect entertaining board, and finding radiant gifts for those you cherish.

You’ll also find inspiration for giving back, whether it’s donating to a cause close to your heart or hosting a lavish holiday celebration, this season is all about celebrating together, in the ways most meaningful to you.

It brings me so much joy and gratitude that you allow us to come into your homes each month. We are so fortunate to have numerous wonderful local organizations throughout our community — from Laura’s House in Aliso Viejo to Kendall, the Wheelchair World Traveler, whose stories remind us of the power of compassion, courage, and connection.

I hope you can embrace the beauty of the season and that your days are filled with meaningful moments, heartfelt connections, and the kind of joy that lingers long after the holidays have passed. Let’s continue to lift eachother up and keep the spirit of community alive all year long.

Wishing you and your families a joyful holiday season filled with light and gratitude. Happy Holidays and a very Happy New Year!

TORAL PARMAR, PUBLISHER

@SADDLEBACKCITYLIFESTYLE

December 2025

PUBLISHER

Toral Parmar | toral.parmar@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Lauren Lenyi | lauren.lenyi@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Nick Parmar | nick.parmar@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Travis Shields | Travis@shieldsfilms.com

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall

LAYOUT DESIGNER Amanda Schilling

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle

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city scene

8: Saddleback City Lifestyle's ribbon-cutting ceremony with the Laguna Niguel Chamber. 9: The Saddleback City Lifestyle team at Laura's House 31st Annual Gala 10: The French Florist continues to blossom by spreading joy with each arrangement

business monthly

A ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES

Pumpkin City

Pumpkin City has recently transformed into a winter wonderland, featuring its breathtaking Christmas trees, tunes, and festive décor. Services include flocking, netting, loading, delivering, and installing your perfect Christmas tree.

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French Florist Ribbon Cutting

The French Florist Boutique in Mission Viejo will celebrate its ribbon-cutting ceremony on December 4th. The Boutique sells flower and plant arrangements for all special events and holidays.

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Step Into Motion!

Sway Ballroom Dance is now offering its introductory lesson for free. Whether you're interested in club, country, or line dancing, Sway Ballroom invites you to dance your heart out.

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Pampas Vegan Helados

Pampas Helados Argentinos is serving vegan Helados, also known as icecream! Stop by their store in Aliso Viejo to try a variety of vegan flavors including lemon, mango, strawberry, rasberry and many more.

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Mark McCready's Travel Tips

The best vacations aren’t just about the destination—they’re about the approach. Travel agent Mark McCreedy knows that balance is key and advises travelers to plan activities and excursions in advance to give your trip shape.  A little preparation—checking documents, packing smart, and having good insurance—can make a world of difference. Most importantly, travel with curiosity and kindness

Due Pompeii's Hair Care Sets

Salon Due Pompeii is offering best-selling duos & trios from Kerastase. They are perfect to gift to your loved ones and yourself. Each set is packed with everything your hair needs to look its best.

The Spirit of the Season

ARTICLE BY LAUREN LENYI

PHOTOGRAPHY

BY TRAVIS

SHIELDS & SOUTH COAST CONSERVATORY Movement, Music, & Merriment

When we think of the holiday season, we often envision decorated Christmas trees or candles burning proudly in observance of Hanukkah or Kwanzaa. But no matter what you celebrate, there are universal hallmarks of winter you are bound to see around town: gifts, snow, reindeer, and of course, nutcrackers.

The latter of which holds a special place in the hearts of many, including Jena Minick-Bull, the owner and CEO of South Coast Conservatory. As a gifted dancer herself, Jena has been overseeing, teaching, and coordinating dancers as they perform ‘The Nutcracker’ on stage. In 2002, Minick-Bull took over the conservatory, combining her passions for education, business, and artistry, attempting to create “Something dedicated towards assembling people together.”

Jena sees the arts as a form of expression and therapy; she’s aware of the power dance holds— and, unfortunately, how inaccessible it often is. Throughout her time at South Coast Conservatory, Minick-Bull has devoted herself to making dance more accessible for both students and instructors. She cherishes the individuality of her students and provides five program tracks, geared towards different age ranges, proficiency, and interests. For those unable to gain traditional access to the prestigious conservatory, Jena founded the Dance Discovery Foundation in 2020. The foundation gives underserved students the opportunity to express themselves through dance, without having to leave campus or fall further into economic instability.

Minick-Bull also uses the foundation to grant scholarships to talented dancers, having spent fifty thousand dollars this year already.

Jena also knows the importance of stability for her staff. She emphasizes teamship rather than traditional hierarchies to ensure everyone has a chance to be heard. Her concern extends to the financial stability of her instructors as well. As Minick-Bull explained, “My mission has been… to provide careers, not gig work.”

The hard work and endless dedication of Jena, her staff, and students culminate each winter into creating the magical spectacle so near and dear to their hearts: ‘The Nutcracker’.

Recently celebrating its 100th birthday, this ballet features timeless, seasonal music while weaving a story of tradition, family, and magic. From December fourteenth through the twenty-first, South Coast Conservatory’s cast, composed of young dancers, will CONTINUED >

bring this tale to life by dressing in whimsical costumes and decorating their stage with beautiful scenery, Christmas trees, snow, and, of course, nutcrackers.

Regardless of the holiday you celebrate, whether you will be lighting candles, hanging stockings, or simply toasting to the gift of life,  South Coast Conservatory welcomes “Anyone that’s ever thought, ‘what if the holidays became a bit more magical?’” to come witness their breathtaking rendition of The Nutcracker.

Celebrate In Style!

Where Every Gathering Becomes a Moment to Remember

ARTICLE

LAUREN LENYI

For many years, Jacqueline “Jaque” Parent has been helping people host fabulous events to celebrate the holidays. From New Year's Eve parties to weddings and so much more, she is determined to provide professional services with an emphasis on sparkling customer service. Around eight months ago, Parent bought her company, Orange County Party Rental, but her journey to becoming the owner of a successful business began in Brazil.

Jaque first got her start in the industry by working in her rental gown store. She has since accumulated “fifteen years of experience in different industries that complement this industry,” allowing her to become an expert in merchandising, marketing, management, and, of course, retail.

Now she is intent on optimizing her business as well as the party rental and event planning industry as a whole. While Parent has variety of rentals that cater to everyone's tastes, she notes that having beautiful things is “worth nothing  if I don't provide customer service.” To prioritize customer satisfaction, Jaque works tirelessly to schedule ahead, remain mindful of client budgets, and maintain cleanliness.

In pursuit of keeping customers happy, she has been working “to slowly become a full-service event company that really takes the stress off you, so you can enjoy your event and we can do all the hard work for you.” OC party rental is now expanding by taking on party planning, specifically by helping customers map out their special events, providing storage, reliable vendor references, and renting out their brand-new indoor event space.

Jaqueline Parent finds motivation in seeing her efforts transform her customers’ stress into joy. Her dedication to customer service and redefining her industry is unmatched. No matter if Jaque is sponsoring community events, organizing a memorial, or preparing for a baby shower, she always maintains: “I love what I do and it doesn't matter if I was sweating under 100 degree weather, it’s all worth it.”

"It's been very rewarding because I've been able to be a part of such special events for our clients."

Holiday Entertaining Boards

The holidays are here and entertaining is in full swing. If you are looking for the perfect appetizer to easily feed a crowd these simple and beautiful boards are sure to please.

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

Tips for creating the perfect board:

• Start with the larger items first and build around those. If you are using jars on the board, place those first.

• Be sure to have enough to fill the space. It is best to overfill so that the board doesn’t look sparse. Stack, stack and stack some more.

• Use a variety of colors and textures when choosing the foods you want to use. Pick cheese with color and patterns, fruits and veggies that come in a variety of textures and colors and a protein that can make a statement.

• Be sure to place similar colors in away from each other to help give symmetry.

Holiday Wreath Charcuterie Board

• Fig Jelly

• Honey

• Variety of Cheeses

• Salami or meat of choice

• Olives (provide a variety)

• Walnuts, Pecans, Pistachios and any favorite nut

• Grapes, berries, persimmon

• Crackers

Place the jars of sauces and olives on the board first. Next place the cheeses on opposing sides. Add meats and fruits next. Layer in crackers, nuts and seeds and fill in any spots with extra nuts. Use fresh rosemary or fresh greenery to add wreath accent in the center of the charcuterie board. Garnish with fresh cranberries.

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Kendall: the Wheelchair World Traveler

EMPOWERING ALL TO LEARN AND ADVOCATE FOR ACCESSIBILITY.

ARTICLE BY LAUREN LENYI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY TRAVIS SHIELDS

Kendall Stier is never one to leave her dreams unfulfilled. This three-time All-American Athlete, and 2017 Women’s National Paralympic Gold Medalist, achieved and exceeded her athletic goals as a shot put and javelin thrower. Now she is focusing on a matter closer to home.

Throughout college, Kendall studied and eventually earned her degree in communications with an emphasis on travel and entertainment. Shortly after graduating in May 2025, Kendall contacted an attorney to establish her company, Wheelchair World Traveler. Growing up in a family of avid travelers, Kendall has experienced firsthand how challenging it can be to navigate the world as an ambulatory wheelchair user with Cerebral Palsy. Quickly, she recognized the lack of reliable resources to help people with disabilities plan stress-free, accessible trips. Determined to provide a space for people with disabilities to learn and communicate about travel accessibility, Kendall created her YouTube channel, stating, “The basis of this channel is what I wish I knew beforehand, and trying to put people at ease so they can better enjoy their trip.”

As a graduation celebration, the indomitable entrepreneur planned a forty-day world tour on a tight budget, ultimately visiting thirty countries. Whilst traveling, she filmed her adventures with the help of her mother and Co-founder. Her videos showcase beautiful landmarks, hotels, tourist attractions, historical facts in relation to each location, tips and tricks, as well as answering the ultimate question: Is this destination accessible to people with mobility impairments?

“Our whole purpose,” the disability advocate explained, “is to focus less on limitations and more on empowering

viewers by showing what is and isn’t accessible.” But, Kendall’s content isn’t only for mobility-impaired travelers; she also hopes to reach any viewer who is curious – disabled or not –  and is ready to learn. Recently, the rising content creator released videos on her experiences accessing and appreciating grand landmarks like St. Peter’s Basilica and La Sagrada Familia. In the coming months, she plans on uploading more videos to YouTube discussing the splendors and accessibility of the United Kingdom, Iceland, France, Portugal, and many other countries.

Besides wanting to create a travel guide she wished she had previous access to, Kendall maintains her motivation through the unwavering support of her subscribers. Having fostered a community centered on engagement, inclusivity, and kindness, the budding entrepreneur receives heartwarming messages from a variety of people. Including a special education teacher in India and a young disabled girl, both inspired by the advocate’s infinite charisma.

When asked about future endeavors, Kendall mentioned combining both her passions of sports and mobility accessibility. “We're going to hyper focus on the Olympics and Paralympics…because we know that millions and millions of wheelchair users are coming [to Los Angeles] in 2028.” She hopes to interview members of the Olympic or Paralympic Committee to discuss the programs they have in mind for athletes and visitors with physical disabilities during the games. To further follow Kendall Stier’s journey, you can visit her website at: wheelchair-world-traveler.com

“It’s really been a blessing to be in a position where I get to travel and share these experiences with other people… It’s fulfilling.”

Give the Gift of Radiance

Invest in Confidence that Lasts!

After a long year of hard work, we all deserve a little pampering—a bit of “me time” to recharge our minds and bodies before leaping into 2026. This holiday season, consider giving the gift of radiance to yourself or someone you love by indulging in one of Refined Radiance Aesthetics’ many luxury treatments.

Founded in January, Refined Radiance Aesthetics is the creation of Dr. Duc, who began his career as a primary care physician before transitioning into the world of aesthetics and holistic medicine. While balancing his corporate position and continuing his extensive studies, Dr. Duc discovered how aesthetics could do

more than enhance appearances. As he explains, “This industry also helps people gain their confidence and improve their quality of life.”

At his Laguna Hills Med Spa, Dr. Duc offers a wide range of services designed to help clients feel rejuvenated and refined. Treatments include everything from Sculptra, body contouring, hair restoration, and skin resurfacing to Botox and dermal fillers. His gentle bedside manner elevates the patient experience as much as the treatments themselves.

The doctor prioritizes building relationships, sharing, “My goal is to gain the trust of my patients and have them know they can message me with anything.”

ARTICLE BY LAUREN LENYI

Beyond the clinic, Dr. Duc actively engages with his community through social media. He regularly shares educational videos highlighting real patients and their results, offering followers an inside look at the benefits of holistic medicine and the science behind his treatments.

With Refined Radiance's many membership packages, you will always save while you invest in yourself. The Botox, or “Tox,” membership provides reduced neurotoxin pricing and priority booking for patients who prefer occasional touch-ups. For those seeking consistent indulgence, the Silver, Gold, and Diamond memberships include discounts on treatments and products, rewards for referrals, birthday vouchers, and even complimentary Botox.

This holiday season, embrace the chance to invest in yourself. Step into the New Year feeling renewed, radiant, and ready to shine.

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.

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DECEMBER 2025

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

DECEMBER TO JANUARY 4TH

Winter Fest OC

OC Fair & Event Center 88 Fair Dr Costa Mesa, CA 92626

Experience the Magic of Winter at the Orange County Fairgrounds. There you can play in real falling snow, enjoy carnival rides, meet Santa, race down their 150-foot ice tubing slide, and wander through the tunnel of lights.

DECEMBER 4TH

8th Annual All is Bright Holiday Celebration

Pacific Park Drive Aliso Viejo, CA 92656 | 5:00 PM

Get ready for a night of holiday magic in Aliso Viejo. Join your community and enjoy a free event packed with festive fun for all ages, including visits with Santa, train rides, live performances, a spectacular aerial show, face painting, ornament making, and of course, the lighting of their twentytwo-foot holiday tree!

DECEMBER 5TH & 6TH

The Friends of the Library’s annual Holiday Book Sale

100 Civic Center, Mission Viejo, CA 92691 | December 5th 1:00 pm - 4:30 pm & December 6th 10:00 am - 4:00 pm

The Friends of the Mission Viejo Library will have a holiday book sale lasting two days. There will be a wide array of materials for all ages to purchase.  Cash and credit cards will be accepted for payment.

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CONTINUED

DECEMBER 6TH

Light the Lake & Boat Parade

22555 Olympiad Rd, Mission Viejo, CA 92692, | 5:00 PM

Revel in the sights and sounds of the holiday season with lights, music, activities, and th beautifully decorated boats, on Lake Mission Viejo! The event goes from 5:00 PM to 8:30 PM.

DECEMBER 7TH

Light the Night Festival

1201 W Malvern Ave Fullerton, 92833 | 3:00 PM

Happy Hanukkah! For those observing, the Jewish Federation of Orange County will host its Light the Night Festival, celebrating Hanukkah in Fullerton on December 7th. The event will include art, music, light-based installations, a communal menorah lighting, and much more!

DECEMBER 14TH

Breakfast With Santa

25555 Alicia Pkwy, Laguna Hills, CA 92653 | 7:00 PM

Santa is making a special stop at the Laguna Hills Community Center! Join your community for a festive morning featuring a tasty breakfast, holiday crafts, and photo opportunities with Santa Claus.