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There’s something special about winter in West Bloomfield — the way the lakefront glistens under the first snowfall, the hum of excitement in local shops and the glow of homes dressed in their holiday best.
We look forward to this season because it invites us to slow down and gather close.

In my family, the holidays always begin with decorating our home. Every ornament carries a story, every light a memory. It’s a ritual that reminds me how the beauty of the season lies in the details — the small, heartfelt touches that make a house feel like home.
This December, we’re celebrating that same spirit throughout our Holidays & Giving issue. Our feature on English Gardens brings inspiration for creating festive décor that feels both elegant and inviting.
And our Holiday Gift Guide highlights thoughtful treasures from local shops and makers — perfect for spreading cheer while supporting our community.
As we celebrate, may we also remember that giving extends far beyond what’s wrapped in ribbon. A kind gesture, a shared meal or a few moments of genuine care can be the greatest gifts of all.
Wishing you the peace and joy of the season.
Happy Holidays!

TODD HAIGHT, PUBLISHER
December 2025
PUBLISHER
Todd Haight | todd.haight@citylifestyle.com
CO-PUBLISHER
Margaret Meyer Haight margaret.haight@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Lynne Konstantin | lynne.konstantin@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Katie Bode | katie.bode@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Allison Sommerville allison.sommerville@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Angela Broockerd, Susan Thwing
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Darrel Ellis, Janie Jones, Gracie Vespa
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas


Proverbs 3:5-6

































At DripIV Therapy and Hydration’s Mingle, Glow & Grow networking event sponsored by West Bloomfield City Lifestyle, Oct. 16. 1: Adajah Irving and Home Clean Heroes’ Cheryl Arafat. 2: Roslyn Reeves, BeBalanced Natural Hormone Weight Loss; Melad Aziza, Precise Temperature Control; Mike Bergmann, beem Light Sauna; West Bloomfield City Lifestyle Publisher Todd Haight; Kylie Bergmann, beem Light Sauna; WBCL Co-Publisher Margaret Haight. 3: Saira Anwia, Gemma Ulewicz and Dahlia Misho of Bloom the Salon; Mike Bergmann and Kylie Bergmann of beem Light Sauna. 4: Ryan Kurrle of LIFT Training, Jamie Yaldoo and Mallory Kuhn. 5: Deana Grove and Nurse Hanna of DripIV Therapy and Hydration. 6: Nurse Hanna of DripIV; Gemma Ulewicz of Bloom the Salon; Publisher Todd Haight. 7: Mark McManus of DripIV Therapy and Hydration.











West Bloomfield and surrounding residents now have a new wellness option with the opening of beem Light Sauna, offering light therapy combined with the serenity of sauna sessions. The center provides personalized treatments aimed at rejuvenating the body, boosting mood and promoting overall balance. Located in a modern, minimalist space, beem Light Sauna is perfect for wellness aficionados. For appointments or memberships, call (248) 422-2336 or visit beemlightsauna.com/location/west-bloomfield
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Milford’s pet lovers have a new reason to celebrate: Premier Pet Supply has opened its newest location at 750 General Motors Road. The boutique store offers upscale pet products, gourmet treats, designer accessories and tailored services for dogs, cats and small animals. Call (248) 714-5431 to learn more or visit the West Bloomfield location, located in the Orchard Mall on Orchard Lake Road. Scan








Shop local for everyone on your holiday list.
ARTICLE BY LYNNE KONSTANTIN

Dress her up in your love with Gogo Sweaters’ hand-knit 100-percent wool HEART ICON SWEATER in Raspberry/ Snow. Anthropologie, Twelve Oaks Mall, Novi; anthropologie.com.
Sleek and cozy, Apparis’ fauxleather NOA ZIPPER GLOVES are lined with recycled Pluche faux fur — a zip closer frees your fingers while out and about. Guys N Gals, West Bloomfield. Shopguysngals.com.



This sweet pair of hand-painted wood LOVESHACKFANCY NUTCRACKERS from Pottery Barn Teen are bursting with holiday cheer. Pottery Barn,

Dripping in charming elegance — literally — Pottery Barn Teen’s resin, metal and crystal LOVESHACKFANCY MENORAH is adorned with fanciful gilded bows, adding extra illumination for the Festival of Lights. Pottery Barn, Twelve Oaks Mall, Novi. Potterybarnteen.com.

owner of Scarlett’s Fur Collection curates luxurious furs — like this black and gray KNITTED RABBIT WITH FOX TRIM — that “empower women, helping them express their individuality and feel their best,” she says. Scarlett’s Fur Collection, West Bloomfield. @Shopscarletts.

constantly mixing Carmex with dollar-store lip gloss to get the hydration they needed with the shine they wanted, they decided to make their own. West Bloomfield-based Bland and her daughters launched P.U.R.E. Lip — offering high-quality, vegan, crueltyfree lip products that nourish lips in a delicious variety of colors. Select any four glosses from 16 shades (shown here in Secreci, Mauve in Me, Fire Engine and Feisty) and pair with a favorite liner from eight tones to create a custom “BUILD YOUR OWN” HOLIDAY GIFT SET Shoppurelip.com.
Perfect for cozy nights or slow holiday mornings, P.J. Salvage’s V-NECK CHENILLE CABLEKNOT TOP AND SHORTS are the ultimate in stay-home softness. Guys N Gals, West Bloomfield. Shopguysngals.com.

Get fired up for any occasion (handy during Chanukah!) with Tart by Taylor’s refillable acrylic ROUND MATCH STRIKER, replete with 140 matches and a strike pad on the bottom. Guys N Gals, West Bloomfield. Shopguysngals.com.
Iris Setlakwe’s sand-toned WIDE GENUINE SUEDE , crafted of buttery leather with a vintagestyle round buckle, can be dressed up or down. Hersh’s, West Bloomfield. Hershsboutique.com.

The best way to spread holiday cheer? Serving up cherished reds, whites or roses in Anthropologie’s RAMONA WINE GLASSES — includes set of four in a two-tone burst of colors. Anthropologie, Twelve Oaks Mall, Novi; anthropologie.com.

Hand-crocheted by artisans in Madagascar of natural, recyclable raffia palm leaves, Gabriele Frantzen's WEEKENDER ROADTRIP BAG works for travel, beach days and grocery shopping. Hersh’s, West Bloomfield. Hershsboutique.com.


House divided? No problem — these U-M AND MSU QUARTERLENGTH SOCKS will please all the feet. Guys N Gals, West Bloomfield; shopguysngals.com.
For the dissectologist in your life, have we got the maker for you: Piecework makes puzzles designed to be “worlds you can lose yourself in.” In CHRISTMAS SWIM, the iconic 1950s photo by Slim Aarons features his wife Lorita floating high above Los Angeles. Extras: Check out their website to find unique playlists curated for each puzzle and a marketplace of gifts and goods that pair perfectly with their puzzles. They’re truly a vision to behold. Pieceworkpuzzles.com

Same classic Clark’s WALLABEE EVO SHOE — in butter-soft suede for versatile comfort — in a cool new shade of aqua. Clark’s, Twelve Oaks Mall, Novi. Clarks.com.




He can choose his color vibe while lounging inside or out on the AIRCANDY ILLUMINATED BLOCHAIR. Like a bean-bag but without the weight, it is customizable

Detroit pride: NFL Detroit Lions’ fleece drop-shoulder WINGSPAN HOODIE is effortlessly cool. Guys N Gals, West Bloomfield; shopguysngals.com.

Comfy and cool — Abercrombie’s matching COZY CREW SWEATER AND BAGGY OPEN-HEM SWEATER PANT are a step up from sweats, made of a soft


Each of this set of four luxuriously wax cast MILAGROS TEQUILEROS by Jan Barboglio offers a different milagro (religious charm) for health and blessings — and holds a crystal clear shot glass (or bud vase). Zieben Mare, Franklin. Ziebenmare.com.
He can display his love for Detroit in this retro-style corduroy DETROIT FLOPPY HAT City Bird, Detroit. Citybirddetroit.com.
Calling Spartans fans! This MICHIGAN STATE LOCKER ROOM PUZZLE (500 pieces; ages 8 and up) provides a nostalgic


NEXT HOODED CORDUROY SNAP-UP SHIRT JACKET for boys. Nordstrom, Twelve Oaks, Novi. Nordstrom.com.

A girly girl’s dream — this QUILTED SCRUNCHIES BOW-PRINTED POUCH is a must-have for your mini’s GRWM routine. Guys N Gals, West Bloomfield; shopguysngals.com.

West Bloomfield; shopguysngals.com
West Bloomfieldartisan Amy Friedman, owner of Artworks by Amy, will custom paint almost anything, from this ROCKING CHAIR and DENIM JACKET to Uggs, Jordans and more. Artworksbyamy.com.

Kids six and up can build their own mini foosball game with Toyology’s FOOSBALL STEM BUILDING KIT — including easy instructions, STEM concepts and extra experiments. Toyology Toys, West Bloomfield. Toyologytoys.com.

NEXT LADYBUG SWEATSHIRT AND LEGGINGS SET is adorned with the little bugs — aka “Our Lady’s Bugs,” so named for the Virgin Mary and meant to bring good luck, especially at Christmastime. Nordstrom, Twelve Oaks, Novi. Nordstrom.com.




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

HOLIDAY COCKTAILS & COZY CREATIONS


INGREDIENTS:
A bright, elegant cocktail with a foamy top and a hint of holiday spirit.
• 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
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.
INSTRUCTIONS: CONTINUED >
A warm, frothy, and festively spiced drink perfect for winter nights.
INSTRUCTIONS:

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
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.


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.
A luscious holiday cocktail with warming spices, rich texture, and a beautiful cinnamon garnish.
• 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.
Bringing the opulent confections of Gilded Age Christmas home.
Ever wondered what those sugar plums in A Visit from St. Nicholas (aka “The Night Before Christmas”) actually taste like? Spoiler alert: They’re not plums at all. These jewel-like Victorian confections, along with dozens of other forgotten holiday treasures, have been meticulously revived in The Gilded Age Christmas Cookbook: Cookies and Treats from America's Golden Era by food writer and historian Becky Libourel Diamond (available at Schuler Books in West Bloomfield).
With HBO’s The Gilded Age captivating audiences, our collective fascination with this opulent era has never been stronger. Diamond’s beautifully researched collection allows us to experience it through the most delicious lens possible: Dessert.
Going beyond simple nostalgia, each recipe — including cakes, cookies, custards, ice creams and more — has been lovingly adapted from 19th-century sources for the modern kitchen. Diamond pairs every confection with historical context and charming lore, transforming your baking session into a journey through time. Brown sugar cookies that once graced Fifth Avenue parlors? Now they can grace yours.
ARTICLE BY LYNNE KONSTANTIN
PHOTOGRAPHY BY HEATHER RAUB
Whether you’re an experienced baker or a nervous novice, these recipes welcome you into a world where holiday entertaining was an art form. The book also embraces the season's diversity, featuring treats from Chanukah and New Year's celebrations alongside Christmas favorites.
With vibrant photography throughout (including images of vintage holiday cards and antiques) and a foreword by Chef Walter Staib, host and executive producer of the Emmy-winning series
A Taste of History, the book is the perfect gift for anyone who believes the holidays should sparkle a little brighter. After all, if we’re going to borrow from the Gilded Age, why not borrow its most delicious traditions?






ARTICLE BY SUSAN THWING PHOTOGRAPHY BY DARREL ELLIS
ENGLISH GARDENS SHOWS US HOW THEY DO THE HOLIDAYS.
For many of us, one of our favorite parts of the holiday season is gazing at holiday decorations — whether a towering tree in our own living room, driving through the neighborhood on a snowy evening or shopping malls and city centers illuminated with twinkling lights.
When it comes to creating our own vignettes, not everyone is blessed with the golden touch. This is when local services, whose goal is to help you create your own winter wonderland — whether Christmas, Chanukah or anything else you celebrate — come in handy.
Step inside English Gardens (englishgardens.com ) in West Bloomfield this time of year, and you’ll swear you’ve wandered into a snow globe — minus the chill. Trees shimmer with ribbon and light, wreaths sparkle from every corner and the aisles hum with people debating between “classic cozy” and “modern glam” for this year’s theme.
“We really offer everything you need for a beautiful Christmas,” says Olivia Zarndt, vice president of marketing. “From lifelike trees — we call them that because they look so real — to wreaths, garlands and more lights than you can imagine. It feels like a Christmas wonderland you can walk through.” Also available are workshops for adults and kids.
Each section tells its own story. Maybe it’s a frosted woodland scene with silver foxes and birch ornaments. Or a bold, jewel-toned tree dripping in glitter and berries.
“Our buyers create all these unique themes to give people inspiration,” Zarndt says. “Even if you just take one idea, it’s fun to see what’s possible.”
Whether you come to shop or simply soak in the sparkle, English Gardens makes it easy to catch that rush of holiday joy — the kind that reminds you why you love this season in the first place.




























OUR ROUNDUP OF ACTIONS TO MAKE LOCAL SPIRITS BRIGHT.
ARTICLE BY SUSAN THWING



A few years ago, Suzi Terebelo met Dana Marlowe, founder of I Support the Girls (ISTG) — a global non-profit that provides dignity to marginalized women through bras and menstrual-hygiene products. To date, ISTG has distributed over 41 million products through 60 affiliates in six countries.
“Dana spoke of how displaced women would use cardboard and duct tape in lieu of bras, and socks as menstrual products,” says Terebelo, co-chair of the social action committee at Congregation Shaarey Zedek’s Sisterhood in Southfield. She launched the CSZ Sisterhood ISTG project, working through ISTG’s Detroit chapter to benefit area women and girls through 110-plus local organizations, including transitional housing centers, libraries, schools and homeless shelters.
Through Jan. 16, donate new and gently used bras plus sealed period products at Shaarey Zedek’s Weisberg and Berman lobbies, CelyFit, MarioMax Salon (West Bloomfield) and Mother Handsome (Oak Park), or via Amazon wish list: a.co/2XSflxe. Info: shaareyzedek.org/connect/ adults; sisterhood@shaareyzedek.org; (248) 357-5544, x34.
Your gift to Grace Centers of Hope offers more than just a warm meal — it brings hope, healing and safety to men, women and children across Metro Detroit, rebuilding their lives from addiction and homelessness. Each plate served represents a step toward transformation and renewal. $2.17 provides one hot meal; $21.70 feeds 10 people; $65.10 provides 30 meals; $217 feeds 100 people. Gracecentersofhope.org
Each December, the West Bloomfield Optimist Club partners with the West Bloomfield Fire Department and local school social workers to bring “Holiday Happiness” to families in need. Through donations and volunteers, children receive new toys and winter coats, while families receive food baskets. You can support this heartwarming community effort by donating, wrapping gifts or delivering baskets. To volunteer or give, contact Dawn Capps at dcapps0213@gmail.com or visit the club’s Holiday Happiness Fundraising Campaign at westbloomfieldoptimist. org/holiday-happiness
Lighthouse’s Adopt a Family program empowers clients to celebrate the holidays with dignity and independence. Instead of traditional wish lists, Lighthouse provides gift cards and household essentials, allowing families to choose what best fits their needs. You can help by donating $25 gift cards (Amazon, Kroger, Target, Meijer or Walmart) or new household items. Monetary donations and items from the Amazon Wish List directly support local families rebuilding stability. Visit lighthousemi.org to give. Lighthousemi.org
When you find yourself in a giving mood, consider making a difference in the lives of the more than 15,000 people served by Jewish Family Service of Metro Detroit (6555 W. Maple Rd, West Bloomfield). The agency offers more than 30 programs focusing on older adults, mental health and wellness, and basic needs services to eligible individuals and families living in Oakland, Macomb and Wayne counties. This nonsectarian nonprofit relies on volunteers and donors to ensure that no one faces life's challenges alone. Whether you can offer your time — visiting homebound older adults, delivering meals, helping with administrative tasks — or make a financial contribution, your support makes a direct impact. Visit jfsdetroit.org to explore year-round volunteer and donor opportunities.
The Farmington Area Goodfellows ensure “No Child or Senior Without a Christmas,” providing food, gifts and essentials to hundreds of local families and seniors in need. Donations of nonperishable food, diapers, new books and unwrapped toys are welcome year-round, along with tax-deductible cash gifts supporting grocery and store gift cards. Learn more about how to get involved at goodfellows.info



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

• 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. CONTINUED >
• A variety of fresh berries or desired fruit
• Marshmallows
• Hot Cocoa Mix
• Chocolate Covered Pretzels
• Chocolate Covered Cherries
• Chocolate Covered Graham Crackers
• Chocolate Covered Biscotti
• Hot Cocoa Bomb
• Holiday Cookie Cutter
Place your favorite holiday cookie cutter on the board first. Fill the cookie cutter with mini marshmallows. Next, layer the large items first. Begin with the chocolate covered Biscotti and build around that using berries. Pile the berries high. Next add a variety of chocolate covered treats on opposite sides of each other between the mounds of berries. Be sure to add touches of berries around the edges. If space allows, place hot cocoa on board. Otherwise, set bowl full of hot cocoa mix and any additional hot cocoa fixings adjacent to the board.

















TUESDAYS IN DECEMBER
Bubbies, Zaydies & Grandbabies
The J, 6600 W. Maple Road, West Bloomfield
Join this special intergenerational program where grandparents and grandchildren (ages 2–5) engage in art, music and interactive storytime. Led by former West Bloomfield teacher Sarah Sherman, this series fosters bonding and creativity. Held on Tuesdays from 10:30–11:45 a.m. $198 ($18 per class) for the first child; $30 for each additional child. Call (248) 661-1000 for more information.
DECEMBER 2ND, 10TH, 16TH & 17TH
Wine Dinners at Carrabba’s Novi
Carrabba’s Italian Grill, 43455 W. Oaks Drive, Novi | 6:30 PM
On Dec. 2 and 10, savor an elegant fourcourse dinner celebrating Caymus Vineyards, paired with wines from the Wagner family’s renowned collection. Then, on Dec. 16 and 17, experience the Feast of the Seven Fishes — an Italian holiday tradition featuring fresh seafood and perfectly paired wines. Reserve your table at Carrabbas.com or call (248) 735-0400.
DECEMBER 13TH
LIFT Training, 7355 Orchard Lake Road, West Bloomfield Township | 12:00 PM

Sweat, recover and glow with this exclusive one-day event from beem Light Sauna and LIFT Training in West Bloomfield! Experience a powerful combination of functional workouts, red light therapy, and outdoor sauna sessions. Plus, local vendors, giveaways and early access to exclusive wellness offers. Come ready to move, connect and recharge in a whole new light. For details, call LIFT at (248) 775-7348.


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