Joy and Giving
The holiday season is here, bringing with it the sights, sounds, and traditions that make this time of year so magical. For many of us, the holidays are a chance to recreate the joy we felt as children, whether it’s through the twinkle of festive lights, the aroma of holiday baking, or cherished family traditions.
In my family, one tradition I've created is to gather to decorate for Christmas and bake cookies while listening to winter playlists on Youtube. These moments remind me of the magic of the season and the importance of creating joyful memories with loved ones.
While this season is joyful for many, it can also be a difficult time for those who are grieving, lonely, or in need. In the spirit of the season, let’s come together as a community to extend kindness and compassion to those who may be struggling. Whether it’s donating to a local charity, volunteering your time, or simply checking in on a neighbor, every act of generosity makes a difference.
May your holidays be filled with love, peace, and the joy of giving.
Happy Holidays,
SARA HAGEN, EDITOR
@WOODSTOCKCITYLIFESTYLE
December 2025
PUBLISHER
Marco Rossi | marco.rossi@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Sara Hagen | sara.hagen@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Danny Litton | danny.litton@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Sean O'Keefe, Lindsey Hickman
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Mary Albers
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST
GATHER & BLOOM HAS
You can now shop our locally crafted gifts, attend our workshops, and get a custom bouquet made in both our Woodstock and Acworth Locations! Our Acworth location is now open at 4873 N. Main St. in Downtown Acworth! We’d love to see you there! We will have different gifts and be offering different amazing workshops at each location! Come make this holiday season extra special with us at Gather & Bloom!
8582 Main St. Woodstock, GA | 678-403-2577 www.gatherandbloomboutique.com | V @gather.and.bloom
Behind each of our 200+ City Lifestyle magazines is someone who cares deeply about their community. Someone who connects people, celebrates businesses, and shares the stories that matter most. What if that someone was you?
Or maybe it’s someone you know. If this isn’t the right time for you, but you know someone who could be the perfect fit, we’d love an introduction.
ARTICLE BY WOODSTOCK CITY LIFESTYLE
Local Faves
A SELECTION OF OUR FAVORITE LOCAL SPOTS
Bizarre Coffee
Bizarre Coffee is a funky and creative coffee shop located in Downtown Woodstock. Check out their fall flavors like Pumpkin Honey Butter, Wicked Apple, Salted Thai, Cozy Core, and The Basic Witch.
Woodstock Flowers and Gifts
Woodstock Flowers and Gifts is the perfect choice for beautiful flowers and gifts for any occasion. They offer fresh flowers, green & blooming plants, gourmet baskets, chocolates, and balloon bouquets.
Deep Roots Wine Market
Deep Roots Wine Market offers a unique wine tasting experience with wines from all over the US, and visitors can also enjoy small plates from the kitchen.
Roswell Christkindl Market
Enjoy pictures with Santa, food, gift shopping, lots of vendors, and more. Located at Bulloch Hall in Roswell, 11/21-12/23
Back to Nature Holiday Market
Venture to Roswell for the Back to Nature Holiday Market at Chattahoochee Nature Center in Roswell — a serene haven for holiday shopping. Explore art, jewelry, candles, children’s gifts, bath products, food, and nature-inspired treasures. Saturday, December 6, 10AM – 4PM
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Make an appointment today by calling or scanning the QR code below.
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HOLIDAY IN the Carribean
ARTICLE BY SEAN O’KEEFE
PHOTOGRAPHY BY SANDALS ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES
St. Vincent and the Grenadines is a stunning Caribbean nation of lush volcanic islands, turquoise waters, sun-warmed pristine beaches, and beautifully welcoming, gracious, and vibrant people shaped by African, Caribbean, and European influences.
Located in the southeast Windward Islands of the Lesser Antilles, the archipelago is defined by the main island, St. Vincent, and dotted with thirty-two smaller Grenadine islands and cays like Bequia and Mustique; all of the islands offer vibrant natural beauty—from tropical, rainforest-covered peaks to bare-faced mountains and coral reefs teeming with marine life. It is the ultimate holiday getaway.
At Sandals St. Vincent, the essence of Caribbean life and luxury comes alive with effortless charm and heartfelt, elevated hospitality. The all-inclusive, adults-only resort nestled in a mountain-wrapped cove along pristine beaches and crystal-clear water is an immersive escape where every detail reflects thoughtful care; it is the epitome of Caribbean excellence.
From adventurous excursions to serene spa treatments, culinary delights, and sunset strolls along powdery sand, Sandals, St. Vincent blends romance, relaxation, and exhilaration. Local traditions honor the resplendent history of the islands as well as a heightened sense of family, community, and the sea. Here, guests are not merely visitors; the warmth, spirit, and effortless elegance of this Caribbean nation embrace them.
CONTINUED >
Whether staying in a swim-up room with a patio soaking tub, an ocean front villa suite, or an incredible overwater, two-story villa; the experience feels less like a hotel and more like an exquisitely designed sanctuary. And, if you want to elevate your experience, the Butler Service at Sandals is not to be missed. Butlers are attentive without intrusion, refined without formality, and a signature touch that elevates island luxury to something more personal; it is a simply unforgettable escape from our real world.
The resort’s cuisine celebrates the bounty of land and ocean: fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and fragrant spices are to be found at every meal. There are twelve different dining options at Sandals St. Vincent. There is certainly something for everyone.
Start the day at Blum, the resort’s bespoke coffee shop and bakery. Whether enjoying the incredible seafood at Scrimshaw or Butch’s Island Chop House, the service is impeccable and delicious. Be sure not to miss Parisol Beach Club or the fire-kissed local cuisine and communal tables at Buccan. Grab a seat at Three Jewels Rum Bar and try a rum flight —it is an experience like none other. Don’t forget to save room for a delectable late-night pizza at Isola and the ultimate affogato at Crema.
“Sandals has thought of everything for that perfect, adults-only, romantic getaway.”
A stay at Sandals St. Vincent is not only lazy days on the beach and incredible dining; it is also for the adventure seekers. Island Routes offers an exhilarating high-speed boat tour, skimming over the crystalline waters of St. Vincent. Enjoy a cocktail and the taste of salt on your lips while you speed past the lesser islands on the way to Mustique and Bequia. There are a wide range of water sports available as well; everything from scuba diving and waterskiing to paddleboarding and kayaking, and more are available. Be sure not to miss the bat cave adventure! Catch a Caribbean adventure tour, a sunset cruise, or a beachside private candlelight dinner; Sandals has thought of everything for that perfect, adultsonly, romantic getaway. Another attraction, Red Lane Spa, is not to be missed. Revitalize your mind, body, and soul as you are embraced by the flowing water, pools, and lush greenery of the spa’s center courtyard. Built along the Buccament Riverside, the spa offers a full range of bespoke treatments featuring the natural richness of the Islands.
At Sandals, life moves with a graceful warmth that is perfect for the holiday season; your dream vacation is easier than ever now that Delta Air Lines has a direct flight to St. Vincent. Sandals invites visitors to pause, savor each moment, and connect deeply with both nature and the enduring, vibrant spirit of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
Ian Sturn D.D.S. | Christine Eckel D.D.S.
Closing Deals in High Heels
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:
FESTIVE CRANBERRY GIN FIZZ
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 >
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
INSTRUCTIONS:
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.
INGREDIENTS:
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
• 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.
CONTINUED >
HOLIDAY SPICED GINGERBREAD LATTE
A warm, frothy, and festively spiced drink perfect for winter nights.
INSTRUCTIONS:
INGREDIENTS:
For the latte:
• 1 shot of espresso (or 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee)
• 3/4 cup milk
• 2 tbsp gingerbread syrup
• Whipped cream
For the gingerbread syrup:
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 tbsp molasses
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1/8 tsp ground cloves
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Optional toppings:
• Ground cinnamon or nutmeg for dusting
• Marshmallow
• Crushed gingerbread cookie around the rim or on top
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.
EMBRACE THE SEASON WITH THESE HOLIDAY PARTY TIPS AND TRICKS.
Good Holiday PARTY VIBES
ARTICLE BY SYDNEY KATE LEWIS
Just like that, it’s officially the most wonderful time of the year. And while you may still be stuffed from all the turkey, it’s time to start planning the ultimate holiday party. I’ve included some tips and tricks to make sure it is the absolute best time for your guests.
01
SETTING THE ATMOSPHERE IS CRUCIAL.
The mood is subjective to the type of party you’re having, though. This could include a tree in the corner, an advent wreath on the table, a menorah on the counter, or other decor aligning with your celebration. Either way, I personally recommend lighting a fire in the fireplace or playing a looping video of one on your television to create a festive and cozy ambiance.
02
HOLIDAY GAMES ACT AS ENGAGING
ENTERTAINMENT.
I once played a game where little trinkets from the Dollar Tree were wrapped in a massive ball of plastic wrap, and guests had 30 seconds to unwrap as much as possible before passing it to the next guest, claiming the unwrapped trinkets as their prize. It definitely gets the adrenaline up and provokes quite a few laughs at the random items wrapped inside.
04
THE PLAYLIST IS, IN MY OPINION, THE MOST IMPORTANT PART OF ANY HOLIDAY PARTY.
While everyone is mingling, it is crucial to have some festive background noise. And, while the classics are well, classic, here are my go-to, more modern song choices for some great holiday fun!
• “Christmas Isn’t Cancelled (Just You)” - by Kelly Clarkson
• “Drummer Boy” - by Justin Bieber
• “Fancy Like Christmas” - by Walker Hayes
• “Hot Chocolate” - by Tom Hanks (From the Polar Express soundtrack)
• “It’s Not Christmas Till Somebody Cries” - by Carly Rae Jepsen
• “Naughty List” - Liam Payne featuring Dixie
• “Redneck 12 Days of Christmas” - by Jeff Foxworthy
• “Stretchy Pants” - by Carrie Underwood
• “Text Me Merry Christmas” - by Straight No Chaser featuring Kristen Bell
• “The Chanukah Song” - by Adam Sandler
Now go create your own, special playlist, pour yourself a mug of eggnog, and dance the night away!
03
FOOD AND DRINKS PLAY A MASSIVE ROLE IN THE HOLIDAY PARTY SCENE.
Whether a simple apple dip (8 oz cream cheese, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1/2 cup toffee bits served with apple slices) or a festive drink, such as a cranberry Moscow Mule (2 oz vodka, 1 oz cranberry juice, 1/2 oz fresh lime juice, ginger beer, and fresh cranberries with a sprig of rosemary for garnish), serving holiday-themed food and drinks amplifies the atmosphere.
Winter Simmer Magic
ARTICLE BY ARSINE KALOUSTIAN
FILL YOUR HOME WITH THE COZY SCENTS OF TART CRANBERRIES, BRIGHT CITRUS, AND WARMING SPICES
Creating stovetop potpourri is a delightful way to indulge in the scents of the festive season. This Cranberry Orange Potpourri combines sparkling notes of fresh citrus and cranberries with nostalgic spices and woodsy herbs to create a welcoming atmosphere.
INGREDIENTS:
• 1 cup fresh cranberries
• 1 orange, sliced
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 1 teaspoon whole cloves
• 3 star anise
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
• 2-3 cups water (plus more as needed)
INSTRUCTIONS:
Combine cranberries, sliced orange, cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, and rosemary in a pot. Add 2-3 cups of water, ensuring the ingredients are submerged. Simmer on low heat, allowing the aromas to release. Check the water level, adding more as needed to prevent drying out. Simmer for several hours to fill your home with the scents of the season.
This potpourri is perfect for setting the holiday mood, whether you’re preparing for a family gathering or simply want your home to smell warm and inviting.
Journey across Tennessee, Missouri, and Kentucky to discover dazzling lights, holiday shows, and sweet treats.
Winter Road Trips Lead to Festive Memories
Whether you’re looking for dazzling lights, world-class entertainment, or family traditions, here are three unforgettable holiday experiences perfect for your family’s seasonal adventures. Each destination offers a unique way to celebrate from the Smokies to the Ozarks to Kentucky, no matter which direction you head.
Dollywood –Smoky Mountain Christmas
As Dollywood celebrates its 40th anniversary season, the award-winning Smoky Mountain Christmas presented by Humana continues its reign as one of the nation’s most beloved holiday festivals. With more than six million lights, Broadway-caliber shows, and immersive areas like Glacier Ridge and Wildwood Grove, the entire 160-acre park becomes a sparkling wonderland. Guests can enjoy culinary favorites like red velvet funnel cakes and the famous Grist Mill cinnamon bread, or watch artisans craft keepsakes. Add in nightly fireworks, festive rides, and the warmth of the Smoky Mountain setting, and Dollywood’s Christmas celebration offers something truly magical for families of all ages
dollywood.com
Silver Dollar City –An Old Time Christmas
Branson’s Silver Dollar City transforms into a glowing Ozark wonderland with more than 6.5 million lights and over 1,000 decorated trees. At its heart, an 80-foot animated Christmas tree dazzles Town Square every evening. Guests can stroll through Christmas In Midtown®, enjoy the final year of Rudolph’s Holly Jolly™ Parade, and see Broadwaystyle productions like A Dickens’ Christmas Carol. Artisans showcase handcrafted gifts while holiday buffets serve prime rib and cinnamon bread. With coasters, a living nativity, and even a Frisco Sing-Along Steam Train, An Old Time Christmas offers families the perfect mix of timeless tradition and modern holiday magic.
silverdollarcity.com
Kentucky Kingdom –Christmas at Kentucky Kingdom
Louisville’s Kentucky Kingdom brings winter thrills to life with its immersive festival, Christmas at Kentucky Kingdom: Bright Lights, Wonder Nights!. The centerpiece is Blizzard Bluff, Kentucky’s largest real snow tubing hill, surrounded by over 1.5 million lights and 300 Christmas trees. Families can explore themed zones like Classic Christmas, Holly Jolly™ Junction featuring Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer®, and Santa’s Village with its 60-foot light tunnel. Seasonal shows, festive foods, and snow play for kids round out the fun. With select rides open, nightly tree lightings, and New Year’s Eve fireworks, this growing holiday tradition delivers excitement and heartwarming experiences for all ages.
kentuckykingdom.com
Silver Dollar City
Dollywood
BREAKFAST HOLIDAY
The holidays are filled with family gatherings. Enjoy this easy, make-ahead recipe to simplify your holiday breakfast; it is sure to impress your guests.
CROISSANT LEMON BERRY DELIGHT
Casserole Ingredients:
• 6 large croissants (from the bakery) sliced into cubes
• 3 cups mixed berries
• 1 package cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sugar
• 5 eggs at room temperature
• 2 cups half and half at room temperature
• ¾ tablespoon vanilla extract
• ¾ tablespoon lemon juice
Lemon Glaze Ingredients:
• 2 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 tablespoon butter, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 ½ tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions:
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Preheat oven to 350 degrees and toast the cubed croissants on a baking dish for 10 minutes. In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs, half and half, lemon juice and vanilla and mix until smooth. Place the toasted croissants into a greased 9 x 13 pan and layer with 1 ½ cups berries. Pour custard mix on top and then add the remaining berries on top. Cover with foil and refrigerate overnight. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and bake, covered, for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 15 minutes. Set aside and make glaze by adding all ingredients to a bowl and mixing until smooth. Drizzle over the casserole and sprinkle with powdered sugar if desired.
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
DECEMBER 7TH
Christmas Jubilee & Parade of Lights
The Park at City Center | 5:30 PM
Parade: The parade starts at Woodstock Elementary School on Rope Mill Rd. at 5:30 PM. Festival: After the parade, walk over to The Park at City Center and visit Santa with your wish list!
DECEMBER 7TH
Christmas-themed Mini Cookie Decorating
Cherokee County Fire Station #22 | 3:00 PM
Ready to try your hand at cookie decorating? This beginner-friendly class will walk you through the basics of piping and flooding, and you’ll leave with 12 beautifully decorated mini cookies you created yourself. $65 per person. Recommended for ages 10 and up
DECEMBER 13TH
Breakfast with Santa Bascomb UMC - 2295 Bascomb Carmel Rd | 9:00 AM
Bring your family and friends for a morning filled with Christmas joy! Enjoy a free pancake breakfast, take photos with Santa, and create fun holiday crafts to take home. This event is free and open to the community — come make special memories and celebrate the season together!
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