AvidLifestyle December 2019 issue

AvidLifestyle.com

DECEMBER 2019

The new crew really

LIGHTING UP

the neighborhood

Presents of mind 50

+

stocking stuffer & hostess gift ideas

Sitting down with SANTA

A delish

NEW YEAR’S EVE CAKE

Your next DIY

WREATH DECEMBER 2019 | $8.95

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74470

56556

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AvidLifestyle.com

in the making

Holiday Inventory SAVINGS EVENT

B E AT T H E FAC TO RY P R I C E I N C R E AS E !

Every year the STEINWAY & SONS factory schedules a price increase, which reeects the actual increase in the costs of labor and materials. Purchase the piano of your dreams for thousands of dollars less than what it will cost in just a few weeks. Special nancing available through December 31.

Visit schmittmusic.com/denver, call 303-777-1900, or email steinway@schmittmusic.com for details.

VILLAGE LAKES The Village at Castle Pines

“

“

5158 Le Duc Lane Listed at: $975,000

We love to sit on our deck that overlooks a spectacular waterfall and the picturesque lake while watching

the sun set behind the mountains.

STEVE REDMOND 303-359-7559 sredmond@livsothebysrealty.com

EVA BARKMAN 720-404-4462 ebarkman@livsothebysrealty.com

LIV Sotheby’s International Realty ® is a registered trademark licensed to LIV Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LTD. Each Sotheby’s International Realty office is independently owned and operated. This information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. All pricing pertaining to properties are subject to change. If you have a brokerage relationship with another real estate professional this is not meant as solicitation.

VILLAGE LAKES The Village at Castle Pines

“

5092 Hidden Pond Place Listed at: $698,000

“

The privacy in my courtyard afforded me the luxury of being able to have my private little garden and to have my morning

coffee while still in my pajamas.

WANDA

720-320-8901 wford@livsothebysrealty.com wandaford.com

FORD

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LAST CHANCE TO BUY IS DECEMBER 12

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CONTENTS

// december 2019

departments

10 12 16

I'M DREAMING ... ... of all the ways White Christmas inspires my December. By Kendall Kostelic

ON THE AGENDA Castle Rock’s home show, a Christkindl market, Colorado Gives Day and more.

LET IT SNOW Greenwood Village’s snowplow crew is first-rate.

By Brady Pieper

local f lavors

19

BUBBLED OVER The Makery’s Pink Champagne cake deserves its stardom.

By Ali Longwell

20

HIDDEN TALENT Inside Danielle’s Scratch Kitchen. By Lori Midson

dwelling well

25 28

WREATH MAGIC Ready to make your own door décor? By Annie Nagel

PHOTO: CHAD CHISHOLM, CUSTOM CREATIONS

FEATURED

32

THINKING OF YOU Leen Jean Studios’ hand- designed holiday cards.

By Cheryl Ilov

ready to wear

54 56

A LIVING SKI LEGACY Eskimo Ski and Board Shop is more than a good gear destination. By Ali Longwell TREND REPORT Holiday style advice.

By Kelly Smith

influencers

Above All Holiday Lighting has a real knack for illuminating area neighborhoods.

By Lori Midson

39 Our gift to you this holiday season: a curated list of hostess gifts, stocking stuffers and small goodies to place under the tree that will feel just as special as the grand items.

By Kendall Kostelic COVER PHOTO: Chad Chisholm, Custom Creations 6

december 2019 // AvidLifestyle

59 62

SECRET SANTA Larry Propp has mastered being the big man in red.

By Bruce Abels

EYE CANDY Alexis Weisenburger is a lash-extension pro.

By Jennie Nunn

wayfarers

64

BACKCOUNTRY BLISS Why one Lone Tree family welcomes the New Year in Winter Park.

By Laurel Thompson

N EW

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HOME LOANS

Be confident when you shop.

December 2019 // vol. 1 // no. 9 PRESIDENT/GROUP PUBLISHER Allen J. Walters PUBLISHER Chris Phillips EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Jon Rizzi sales, marketing & advertising SENIOR SALES DIRECTOR Craig Hitchcock ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Hillary Locke Mujica DIGITAL SPECIALIST Drew Kort BUSINESS MANAGER Cindy Palmer

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PRINCIPALS Ray L. Baker, C. Don Baker, Dick B. Baker ADVERTISING INQUIRIES: chris@avidlifestyle.com EDITORIAL INQUIRIES AND LETTERS: kendall@avidlifestyle.com CUSTOMER SERVICE: 720.493.1729 MAILING ADDRESS: 7200 S. Alton Way #A-180 Centennial, CO 80112

(719) 574-1100 800-525-9623 Standard credit qualifications apply. All loans are subject to final credit approval. Financing on homes throughout Colorado. Property insurance, and if applicable, flood insurance is required. Consult a tax advisor for information regarding deductibility of interest and charges. *Lock & Shop is available on fixed-rate mortgage loans, excluding refinance, CHFA and bond loans. Additional conditions or exclusions may apply. Please refer to Ent's Important Loan Information and Mortgage Rate Lock Information for more details.

Insured by NCUA | Equal Housing Opportunity | Equal Opportunity Lender © Ent Credit Union, 2019 8

december 2019 // AvidLifestyle

AvidLifestyle (ISSN 2642-0562) is published twelve times a year

by Baker-Colorado Publishing, LLC, and printed by Publication Printers Inc. volume 1, number nine. 7200 S. Alton Way #A-180, Centennial, CO 80112. Order your personal subscription to AvidLifestyle by calling 720-493-1729. Subscriptions are available at the rate of $12 per year. Copyright © 2019 by Baker-Colorado Publishing, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. Postmaster: Send address changes to AvidLifestyle, 7200 S. Alton Way #A-180 Centennial, CO 80112.

The magazine welcomes editorial submissions but assumes no responsibility for the safekeeping or return of unsolicited manuscripts, photographs, artwork or other material.

Give the Gift of 2 FOR THE SHOW GOER

1 FOR THE FESTIVE THE WINTER SPECTACULAR PACKAGE When you want to stay close to home but light up your holiday in an exciting new way, The Broadmoor offers the perfect “staycation.” Enjoy the spirit of the season with special room packages and your whole family participating in festive activities.

You just might find your new holiday tradition!

THE BROADMOOR HOLIDAY SHOW Get ready to dine, sing along and enjoy the holiday season at one of The Broadmoor’s Holiday Shows. With the Classic Broadmoor Holiday Package, you can make a night of it with your family, or bring your team and make this evening your company holiday party!

Either way, this show is not to be missed with headliner Debby Boone.

Show dates: December 13, 14, 20, 21, 22, 24 and 28, 2019.

4 FOR THE FORMAL PARTYER THE BROADMOOR NEW YEAR’S EVE GALA Want to close out 2019 in style?

Then gift yourself with an unforgettable night at The New Year’s Eve Gala.

Elegant and exquisite, it’s an evening of dancing, a tastefully designed menu and a tempting dessert bar! Ring in 2020 with champagne and a balloon drop while the band brings everyone to their feet.

3 FOR THE ADVENTURER AN INVIGORATING WILDERNESS RETREAT Does anyone in your family love the outdoors, or want to experience Colorado’s beauty?

From fly fishing to relaxing in rustic luxury Broadmoor style, our Wilderness Experience makes a great gift. Choose from one of our three luxury, all-inclusive properties: OrvisEndorsed Fly Fishing Camp, Cloud Camp or The Ranch at Emerald Valley, voted 2019 Most Luxurious Ranch by AAA Colorado.

5 FOR THE FREE SPIRIT

THE BROADMOOR NEW YEAR’S EVE BASH Maybe you like a more casual New Year’s Eve. Then you’ll love one of our newest holiday traditions, The New Year’s Eve Bash. Groove the night away to live funk, rock and blues. Enjoy small plates and a tapas-style buffet late into the evening, followed by the excitement of confetti and champagne toast at midnight.

Give the gift of choice this holiday! A Broadmoor Gift Card is the gift that keeps on giving. In addition to purchases at any of our fine retail shops and galleries, The Broadmoor Gift Card can be used toward lodging, spa services and much more!

For additional information, visit https://broadmoor.com/give-the-gift w w w. b r o a d m o o r . c o m • 8 6 6. 2 8 5 . 2 4 4 0

SETTING THE STAGE

where you

LIVE Strategically connecting

buyers and sellers with the best properties in Colorado.

TALK OF THE TOWN

KNOW SOMEONE who should be featured in AvidLifestyle? Tell me about him or her at kendall@avidlifestyle.com.

I’M DREAMING …

… of a Bing Crosby kind of Christmas.

IRONICALLY, most Christmas Eves I find myself watching White Christmas—a viewing saved for around 10 p.m.—nowhere near snow. I’m typically in a warm, humid climate wearing light layers, snuggled on a couch with as many of my family members as will fit.

And though we spend roughly two hours watching Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary Clooney and Vera-Ellen work to will the skies into letting loose feet of white flurries, no one in our audience particularly minds that we’re sure not to see a similar result. For us, and I’m positive for other fans out there, the gift of this 1950s classic is a state of mind: love over loneliness, playfulness over function, hope over melancholy and, the attribute most comically applied, inventiveness capable of clearing up a few scrapes.

The fondness these lessons evoke is difficult to describe.

It’s a similar feeling, really, to reading about Kathleen Ostrom of Leen Jean Studios’ passion for handwritten prose inside hand-designed cards—her parents, for starters, saved and then gifted to her every card her grandparents sent to her while she was growing up (pg. 28).

Affection for the beauty of the season (the very incentive that you could say has the big-screen foursome doing literal snow dances) can be found in Arapahoe Floral’s step-by-step wreath project (pg. 25), and in the story of one outdoor lighting company making display waves across Greenwood Village, Cherry Hills Village and other neighboring areas (pg. 32).

E X P E R I E N C E D , T R U S TED A DVI SOR.

LUXURY REAL ESTATE BROKER WITH LIV SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY

303.921.2964 csanders@livsothebysrealty.com

We do get to celebrate the snow—with a look at Greenwood Village’s snowplow team (pg. 16), recently named the best road-clearing crew in the country at the American Public Work Association’s National Snow Roadeo, and Centennial’s Eskimo Ski and Board Shop (pg. 54), the company the venerable Frank Bulkley II opened 80 years ago with his very-well-known Eskimo Ski Club.

And for smarts, we have eight pages of thoughtful gifts (pg. 39) chosen with small holiday gifting occasions—for the holiday party hostess, stockings and the like— in mind.

We don’t feature impressive dance numbers, but I hope you find seasonal enjoyment, nonetheless, within the pages of our first December issue.

Here’s to living well,

Kendall Kostelic

10

december 2019 // AvidLifestyle

PHOTO: CHAD CHISHOLM, CUSTOM CREATIONS

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// editor’s letter

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ON THE AGENDA

// can’t miss events

DECEMBER

Dec. 6-8

PHOTO: B RYMAN, CITY OF LONE TREE VIA FACEBOOK

CASTLE ROCK HOLIDAY & HOME SHOW The winter iteration of this expo aims to offer a one-stop shop for holiday gifts and décor, information on the latest home trends, renovation inspiration and time with local and national vendors. DOUGLAS COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS castlerockhomeshow.com

Dec. 6

2019 MERRY DAYS HOLIDAY TREE LIGHTING The tree lighting and speeches from Mayor Jacqueline A. Millet and City Council start at 6:30 p.m., but you’ll want to linger for the other family-friendly activities: caroling, a hot cocoa bar and s’mores roasting station, giveaways and more. LONE TREE ARTS CENTER cityoflonetree.com

Dec. 7 PHOTO: ON STAGE COLORADO

5TH ANNUAL CHRISTMAS FOR KIDS For the past four years, the gifts gathered at this event have given foster kids placed through Kids Crossing in Denver, Colorado Springs and Pueblo a jubilant holiday season. This year, organizers hope to reach all children within the Kids Crossing program. Christmas wish list(s) are sent to you before the event.

Bring the gift(s) the night of and then dance, drink and nosh the evening away.

CIELO AT CASTLE PINES eventbrite.com

Dec. 7

Dec. 6

AUSTRIAN CHRISTMAS AND CHRISTKINDL MARKET Celebrating the Austrian brothers that homesteaded Schweiger in 1874, this annual market is about more than gift shopping (for which you’ll find handcrafted items from local makers). Take the kids to the face-painting station, explore the ranch by way of a horsedrawn carriage, take an adults-only wreath-making workshop, see an Austrian band and the Legendary Ladies: Unconventional Women of the West live, taste-test Austrian food and drinks and more. The Lone Tree property is also illuming its historical buildings for the season Dec. 7-Jan. 26.

SCHWEIGER RANCH schweigerranch.org

PHOTO: SCHWEIGER RANCH

HOLIDAY FLAMENCO FIRE! World-renowned Maestro René Heredia has performanced for President Gerald Ford, President Jimmy Carter, Princess Grace Kelly and Prince Rainer of Monaco and even on The Ed Sullivan Show.

At this display, Heredia and his Flamenco Fantasy dancers plan to transport attendees to the place the passionate steps originated: Spain.

Also on the schedule: an authentic Spanish meal in the Great Hall enjoyed by candlelight, a special Holiday Designer Showcase tour and, at the cash bar, a winter sangria. Let us know if you need a plus one…

CHEROKEE RANCH AND CASTLE cherokeeranch.org

there’s more ➼ 12

december 2019 // AvidLifestyle

FIND THE CLASSIC STYLING THAT IS KINCAID

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Make an appointment with one of our talented and qualified designers.

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DENVER’S ULTIMATE HOME SHOPPING EXPERIENCE.

TheShowroom.com

5445 North Bannock Street (Near I-25 & 58th), Denver, CO

// can’t miss events

Dec. 13-14

A WARM WINTER’S NIGHT In other melodious news: Cherry Creek Chorale is celebrating its 40th anniversary of bringing music to life locally. Lend an ear at The Chorale and The CherryTones’ holiday display—sing-alongs are promised.

BETHANY LUTHERAN CHURCH cherrycreekchorale.org

Dec. 7

MAYOR’S HOLIDAY LIGHTING Calling all Greenwood Village residents: The nail stumping, axe throwing, caber tossing, lumber sawing, wood carving and crafts, fat-tire bike riding, lantern launching and more on this rousing schedule are just for you. Flannel shirts (being lumberjacks and lumberjills seems to be the theme here) recommended.

GREENWOOD VILLAGE CITY HALL greenwoodvillage.com

Dec. 10

PHOTO: CITY OF GREENWOOD VILLAGE VIA FACEBOOK

Dec. 10-11

THE DOO-WOP PROJECT CHRISTMAS Re-doos of classic doo-wop songs! Doo-wop takes on contemporary hits! Reimagined Christmas classics! The five Broadway stars and their five-piece band played a sold-out show last year; don’t miss the riveting riffing in their return performance. LONE TREE ARTS CENTER lonetreeartscenter.org

// what’s online

Dec. 24-25 PHOTO: LONE TREE ARTS CENTER

FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS Greenwood Village is celebrating Hanukkah with the lighting of the giant Menorah of Freedom. Last year’s event had gifts for the kids, dreidels, latkes and donuts. All are welcome. CITY HALL AND COMMUNITY ROOM greenwoodvillage.com

FOLLOW THE LINK

PHOTO: JEWISH COLORADO VIA FACEBOOK

COLORADO GIVES DAY This year marks the 10th anniversary of the statewide philanthropic event. To celebrate, the Community First Foundation program will be awarding ten $10,000 cash prizes—a perk, rather than incentive, for taking part in the day. coloradogives.org

Dec. 8

CHRISTMAS MITZVAH PROJECT For more than 24 years, JewishColorado and volunteers have spent the Christian holiday giving back to the community at places such as hospitals, assisted living facilities and shelters. Volunteers will be matched with projects, helping with tasks like preparing meals, answering phone calls and staffing gift shops. jewishcolorado.org

LIGHTING THE TRIFECTA MEET KEITH SMITH , a Centennial Christmas light connoisseur whose yearly display—coordinated with the displays of his neighbors on both sides—draws hundreds of admirers. “Over the years I’ve just built and built,” he says. “And now I have my own radio station that plays the music and the lights are synchronized.” avidlifestyle.com 14

december 2019 // AvidLifestyle

PHOTO: CHERRY CREEK CHORALE VIA FACEBOOK

ON THE AGENDA

@avidlifestylemag

LET’S GET SOCIAL AVIDLIFESTYLE WENT TO KAUA’I! And we shared a sneak peek of the trip.

Give the Gift of Spa and Wellness

Many people don’t know that Colorado Springs has a world-class Integrated Wellness Center and Spa right here at the Garden of the Gods Resort and Club. And even better, anyone is welcome at Strata Integrated Wellness Spa. Gift cards are a fabulous way to reward, incentivize and acknowledge those in your circle this holiday season.

TO PURCHASE VISIT US, CALL 719-520-4988, OR EMAIL GGCSPA@GGCLUB.COM

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THE REST IS HISTORY

// out and about

LET IT SNOW

The Greenwood Village snowplow crew can handle it.

By Brady Pieper

PHOTOS: COURTESY CITY OF GREENWOOD VILLAGE

Village during and after a snowstorm,” says Bob Christensen, a City of Greenwood Village maintenance worker.

The team is so good because “we have all driven trucks for many years,” says Wayne Vehrs, a City of Greenwood Village parks maintenance mechanic. “And in Greenwood Village traffic, you’re close to cars with a big plow on a truck, so you end up getting a lot of experience from that.”

Bob Christensen, Greg Phillips, public works director Jeremy Hanak, Nate Sullivan, Wayne Vehrs

IT MAY BE DECEMBER, but rodeo season is far from finished. Though the roster for the big event has changed quite a bit: Rather than barrel racers, steer wrestlers, calf ropers and bull and bronco riders, it’s snowplow crews and mounds of fluffy flurries that form the standoff.

Things got started in late September at the American Public Work Association’s annual National Snow Roadeo. The competition pits

snowplow crews all over the country against each other in a (friendly) rivalry where teams have the chance to show they are the best at wrangling fresh powder. And in the 34 years of the contest’s existence, Greenwood Village drivers have developed a habit of winning.

The Greenwood Village team has taken home four first-place prizes. In 1985, the first year of the competition, the village was one of only three winners. This year, the team was named the best snowplow crew nationwide, a new award at the competition, after finishing first in three events—where, yes, belt buckles (and jackets) did come with the team trophy.

In other words, heightened skills are the reason it usually feels a little different driving on Greenwood Village roads after a big storm. “We always hear that drivers can tell the difference in the streets when they come into Greenwood 16

december 2019 // AvidLifestyle

The competition, held at the Western Snow and Ice Conference, consists of five events each with 40 to 60 competitors on average, varying by event, and three different portions: a 10-question written test on knowledge of techniques and strategies, a diagnostic test challenging a driver’s ability to perform pretest inspections and—the most watch-worthy segment—tight obstacle courses evaluating driving skills.

Most competitors use the time as training too. Mother Nature, after all, can make for a wild ride.

2020 MERCEDES-BENZ GLS450 THE MERCEDES-BENZ WINTER EVENT IS ON!

Come and see the largest Mercedes-Benz showroom in the region and meet Terry Minnick and his staff. The Winter Event has the best values of the year.

Visit Mercedes-Benz of Denver and try out the 2020 GLS450.

We’re sure you’ll agree, it’ll fit you like a glove. Surround yourself with luxury beyond compare.

Terry Minnick - General Manager | Phone: (303) 888-3921 | E-Mail: terry.minnick@mercedesbenzofdenver.com (855) 557-4501 | 940 South Colorado Blvd., Denver, CO 80246 M-Sat: 9AM-8PM | Sunday: Closed as Mandated by State Law www.MercedesBenzofDenver.com

LOCAL FLAVORS

Bubbled Over

CONSIDER YOUR CONTRIBUTION TO THE NEW YEAR’S EVE GOODIE TABLE DECIDED.

By Ali Longwell MOSCATO MAKES FOR a memorable dessert—just ask Desiree Kelly, the mastermind behind The Makery Cake Company’s famous Pink Champagne cake.

Light, pleasantly sweet and slightly fruity (yep, just like a glass of Moscato), Kelly, also the bakery founder, has sold close to 2,500 Pink Champagne cakes since opening her shop in 2006.

The specific sparkling strawberry Moscato she pours into the batter has become a sought-after trade secret thanks to the airy cake texture it creates. “Many of my competitors have started to make a rival version, and I’d like to not give them any hints,” Kelly says. “Customers always go back to this cake and say, ‘This is my favorite!’ We don’t know if it’s the bubbles or the acidity that gives it the unique light consistency, but the cake is wonderful.”

To be sure, Kelly’s unusual understanding of the science behind baking has made the flavor a success as well.

She was a molecular biologist who volunteered to make her younger sister’s wedding cake and then fell in love with cake decorating (and baking). Kelly made an official career change and started experimenting with exotic, distinct cake flavors. “The inspiration for this cake came from my love of putting spirits in food,” she explains.

PHOTO: CHAD CHISHOLM, CUSTOM CREATIONS

She’s certainly had plenty of practice mixing the two together since: “The guys from the liquor store near us recognize The Makery staff and run to get a couple cases of the sparkling wine when we walk in the door.”

The best thing to pair with the dessert?

“Adding a bottle of Champagne or sparkling wine on the side can’t hurt,” Kelly jokes. It just takes one bite, after all, to feel like there’s something worth celebrating.

HAVE YOUR CAKE The Makery Cake Company Centennial 720.270.4042 themakery.com

19

december 2019 // AvidLifestyle

// inside story

LOCAL FLAVORS

// restaurant to watch

Hidden Talent Meet DANIELLE’S SCRATCH KITCHEN, i.e. an entirely tempting reason to make your way to The Village at Castle Pines.

By Lori Midson

THE TEAM Owners Dan Pisarra and his son, Vincent, have togther clocked more than 75 years in the restaurant industry. Originally from New York, they moved to Colorado in 1991 and opened and operated several delis before unleashing Danielle’s in 2015 with the “simple idea,” says Vincent, “that great food and great service make great friends.”

20

december 2019 // AvidLifestyle

PHOTO: CHAD CHISHOLM, CUSTOM CREATIONS

RESTAURANTS are underrepresented in the heart of The Village at Castle Pines, but the lack of competition isn’t what has made Danielle’s Scratch Kitchen a second home for residents. The locals’ answer to lunch, happy hour and dinner out is a pleasurable destination with desirable food, lovely scenery, unforced hospitality and cocktail and wine syllabi that are comparable to that of other restaurants with far more name recognition. Forgive us, Castle Pines, for sharing the secret.

LOCAL FLAVORS

// restaurant to watch

PHOTOS: CHAD CHISHOLM, CUSTOM CREATIONS

EAT HERE Danielle’s Scratch Kitchen The Village at Castle Pines 303.524.9788 daniellesscratchkitchen.com

to order,” Vincent says. And that’s not all: You won’t find a freezer or microwave anywhere in the restaurant.

THE AMBIANCE Despite a late-day commitment, we chucked our afternoon plans and happily lingered for several hours in a cushy, oversize booth. The cosmopolitan, high-ceilinged space, walled with windows, is the kind of place that’s conducive to a long and lazy rendezvous.

In addition to running the restaurant, Dan creates the recipes and designs the menu.

“We strive to be a five-star dining experience with competitive prices and a welcoming environment,” explains Vincent (above). Proof of that topflight care can be found in the restaurant’s firm dedication to its “scratch” claim: “We make our own pastas, hand-cut our steaks and fish, stretch our own cheese and every one of our sauces is a pan-reduction made

An elegant community table sits front-andcenter in the dining room, while the animated bar and rollicking patio are ideal pitstops for a post-work cocktail.

A mural depicting a thicket of aspen trees greets guests at the entrance. And you’ll want to pause to admire the wine cabinet stocked with bottles from around the globe.

THE FOOD While the dishes zigzag across countries, Dan and Vincent are Italian and much of the menu is a nod to the boot. The burrata ($15, top left) is shelled with mozzarella curd and gorged with ricotta, which isn’t exactly orthodox— stracciatella cheese is the traditional filling. But the subtle sweetness and marked richness of the ricotta, coupled with sidekicks of pesto and dried tomatoes, makes for a delicious schmear on grill-marked ciabatta.

A fig and arugula salad ($15 for lunch, $17 for dinner; top right) dressed with Champagne vinaigrette and punctuated with goat cheese, port wine-poached figs and sheets of prosciutto provides a valid reason to eat leaves. While the bone-free Southern fried chicken ($16, 22

december 2019 // AvidLifestyle

$24; above) is a formidable counterpoint to salad envy with its crusted exterior submerged under a countrified gravy spiked with bourbon.

So, too, is the Southwest Burger ($16, $18; bottom left). The patty (a blend of chuck, short rib and brisket) is layered with chipotle-flecked Gouda, roasted jalapeño cream cheese, salsa and a swipe of chipotle mayonnaise, the sum of its flavor-jolted parts barely contained in a soft bun.

Like us, you’re going to want to sip a Smoke and Coal Manhattan ($11) no matter your order.

The special cocktail is made with Eagle Rare Kentucky Straight bourbon, sweet vermouth and bitters and served in a glass that’s smoked on a bourbon plank.

WE’RE COMING BACK FOR Happy hour, which runs daily from 2 to 6 p.m. and struts a slew of discounted appetizers, plus $5 well drinks, draft beers and wines, including a Riesling and a rosé. An $8 Manhattan? We’ll drink to that.

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303-770-1116

Now – January 5, 2020 Experience the debut of ICE! at Gaylord Rockies, featuring Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.

Guests will enjoy favorite scenes from Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer brought to life in this walk-through winter wonderland carved from more than two million pounds of colorful ice.

ICE! is an indoor winter wonderland kept at a chilly 9 degrees featuring: • Hand-carved sculptures by 40 artisans from Harbin, China • Depicts the story of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer • Two-story tall ice slides • Full Nativity in stunning, crystal-clear ice Tickets and Packages on Sale Now!

GaylordRockiesChristmas.com |

(720) 452-6900

PEPSI, PEPSI-COLA and the Pepsi Globe are registered trademarks of PepsiCo, Inc. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and all related elements © & ™ under license to Character Arts, LLC. All rights reserved.

A PART OF

PHOTO: CHAD CHISHOLM, CUSTOM CREATIONS

DWELLING WELL

Wreath Magic

// in the making

ARAPAHOE FLORAL is in the middle of celebrating. The Greenwood Village staple, now home to a new puppy mascot named Wilson, is celebrating its 30th year of bringing blooms to the south Denver community. A few things have helped owner Carol DeStefanis stay connected to area residents: a weekly Friday Flower Happy Hour that features specials on different seasonal flowers from 1 p.m. until closing, a loyalty program and monthly floral workshops. This month’s design project: wreaths.

By Annie Nagel 25

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DWELLING WELL

// in the making

SHOPPING LIST BEGINNER: A fresh, undecorated wreath from your favorite flower shop ADVANCED: A wire or grapevine wreath frame and fresh evergreen branches EVERYONE: Decorative greenery, like eucalyptus, magnolia leaves, grevillea, succulents and rosemary Flowers, like protea, roses, mums and succulents Natural “décor,” like berries, pine cones, rose hips and cinnamon sticks Other baubles— DeStefanis likes ribbon, bows, ornaments, bells, faux birds, silk poinsettias and silver or gold spray paint 18-gauge floral wire Green water picks (if using fresh blooms) Glue gun Spray bottle (for watering once wreath is complete)

STEP 1: PREP THE WREATH

BEGINNER: Soak premade wreath in cool water for 10 minutes to hydrate. Let dry.

ADVANCED: Using either a wire or grapevine wreath frame, attach evergreen branches to the frame by the stems with floral wire. Secure each side of branch stems with wire, wrapping the wire onto the frame. Repeat around the wire frame until you have tightly wrapped branches. Make sure to disperse the branches evenly. Soak the homemade wreath for 10 minutes. Let dry.

STEP 2: CHOOSE A THEME

What works best for your home: a traditional holiday wreath, a neutral and natural look or a more whimsical take? Decide colors and ornaments accordingly.

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PHOTOS: CHAD CHISHOLM, CUSTOM CREATIONS

DWELLING WELL

STEP 3: CUSTOMIZE GREENERY

Add more greenery by securing stems and loose pieces to your wreath frame with either a glue gun or wire. Add enough greenery, says DeStefanis, to create depth and make the wreath look full. Then play around with flowers and your other natural elements. Pro tips: Water picks can be placed inside the wreath and be refilled to keep blooms fresh. Place flower stems in pre-filled green water picks (leave room at the top as you are filling with water) and then insert into wreath. DeStefanis recommends using wire, rather than glue, for nonperishables you wish to use again.

STEP 4: DRESS IT UP

LEARN FROM THE PROS Wreath workshop: Dec. 4, 6-8 p.m.

Arapahoe Floral Greenwood Village 303.220.7515 arapahoefloral.com

Plan to secure other decorations using wire. Symmetry, DeStefanis says, is your best friend: Treat each side of your wreath equally to create balance. Start by placing your ribbon or major accent pieces where desired, then work your way around the wreath with other adornments. Don’t overload the wreath—if the natural elements and greenery are being overwhelmed by trimmings then you’ve added too much.

STEP 5: PUT IT ON DISPLAY

If hanging indoors, spritz the wreath with water daily. If hanging outside, spritz with water every few days. DeStefanis says these treatments ensure a healthy design all month long.

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// in the making

DWELLING WELL

// the write note

LET’S GO SHOPPING Leen Jean Studios Lone Tree 720.504.4464 leenjean.com

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// the write note

PHOTOS: KATHLEEN OSTROM

DWELLING WELL

Thinking of You

Kathleen Ostrom’s stance is clear: There is still no better time to share the gift of a personal, handwritten card than the season of giving.

By Cheryl Ilov THE NEXT TIME you’re considering retiring handwritten holiday cards, take a seat with Kathleen Ostrom. The founder of Lone Tree’s Leen Jean Studios has a way of bringing the power of a personalized, intentionally designed note back to life. “When you send a holiday card you are creating a lasting memory,” she says.

“The person receiving it understands that you have put a lot of thought into selecting the card, writing a personal note and establishing a human connection that you just can’t achieve any other way.”

didn’t even know my parents kept them until I was an adult, and my mother handed me a box full of the notes. Now those cards are so special to me: They evoke so many emotions and feelings of the closeness we had together. As an adult, it also provides me with the opportunity to get to know my grandparents from a different perspective. One of my grandmothers has passed; being able to read the cards that she sent me is a rare gift. Overall, there is incredible value in being able to physically hold something that another person took the time to pick out and send.”

It is this belief in prose that led Ostrom to launch her company in 2011, where she designs everything from wedding paraphernalia to recipe cards to gifts tags and holiday cards, prints and commissioned art by hand. Here, she dives into the source of her fervor.

What is your design style?

“My style continues to evolve, and I get my inspiration from a variety of different sources.

There are several different aspects of my business, but calligraphy is the one that is the most near and dear to my heart—although it is the most time consuming. In addition to Christmas cards, I also design and create Christmas decorations and ornaments on commission.”

When did you become interested in this kind of art?

“I always knew I wanted to be an artist. I earned a degree in graphic design, but after working in the corporate world, felt like I needed a more creative outlet. So, I began learning calligraphy.

I fell in love with it, so I started designing and creating handmade cards. I soon realized I had my own personal style and just ran with it.”

You say celebratory cards are something to be cherished. What cards made you first feel this way?

“My parents kept every card that my grandparents ever sent me, from the time I was born. I

What are some of your most memorable commissioned pieces?

“Last year I had the opportunity to create a custom project for Vice President Mike Pence and his family. One of the second lady’s assistants was familiar with my work and recommended me. Working with them was a wonderful experience. I even addressed all of their Christmas cards.”

Tell us about your gift tags.

“My gift tags are all handmade, but not typically 29

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personalized. However, I would be happy to individualize them if someone is interested.”

What advice do you have for those of us who have, ahem, fallen behind on holiday cards this year?

“For future years, the best advice I can give is to plan ahead and start thinking about cards as early as September or October; you can even start planning in January. … I really can’t give a specific date on when it is too late to order cards or other services because every request is different and it depends on the type of work and the size and complexity of the project.

“Remember, you are giving family and friends a gift that can last a lifetime, so you want to delight in the experience as well. That is the whole point of sending a handwritten card, not only at Christmas, but all throughout the year.”

Homes for the Holidays

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Remember that the happiest people are not those getting more, but those giving more.

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303.817.0192 | MARKUSDREAMHOMES.COM All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed and should be independently verified. All properties are subject to prior sale, change or withdrawal.

Neither listing broker(s) nor Kentwood Real Estate shall be responsible for any typographical errors, misinformation, misprints and shall be held totally harmless.

KENTWOOD R E A L E S TAT E D T C

PHOTO: E.J. CARR

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Bright Idea There’s a new team making the season, well, you know.

By Lori Midson

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DAISY JOHANNES (left) and her business partner, Parker Mitchell-Smith, knew they had a special way of bringing the holiday spirit to life when, on a clear December afternoon, their lighting crew was unintentionally pit against their biggest competitor—a tree service and lawn-care company.

The rivals were lighting an adjacent house for the holidays as Johannes walked up to her client’s front door. “I knocked, afraid to bring attention to the other guys. But when the man answered, he didn’t even look in their direction,” she remembers. “They lit the roofline of their client’s home using a big crew and a truck running on diesel. We lit our client’s roofline, too, only we did it with a smaller, quiet team while he worked inside.”

It’s the best time of the year to take a moonlit stroll. All along the area’s festive neighborhood streets, rooflines and icicled trees are spangled with the kind of twinkling light displays that dreams (and, let’s not forget, the best holiday cards) are made of.

Johannes and Mitchell-Smith, for one, hope to never wake up.

Ways to keep decorating Johannes gave us the green light.

THINK OUTSIDE the colors of the typical holiday box.

Sure, red and green hues are nostalgic and classic, but if you have kids, try something whimsical, says Johannes, who loves the playful combination of green, blue and purple. “For a touch of class, stick with metallics, creams and whites, faux snow and matching silver or rose-gold ornaments for the tree,” she advises.

USE PRESENTS as decorations. You’re one step ahead of the elves when you don’t leave your gift shopping until the last minute. Wrap gifts and, instead of piling them under the tree or in a closet, make them a design focus. Look for display areas, including on top of chests or the mantle, to add a little something extra. Create vignettes with smaller gifts and stack larger gifts in baskets with twinkling lights or greenery.

EMBELLISH your outdoor planters. So many frontporch planters are left bare for the holidays, which is a travesty, Johannes says. She suggests buying a desksize tree if you don’t already own one, and pruning the bottom branches off to leave a long stem. Plant the tree when the potting soil is dry and add a little water the night before a big freeze to stiffen it up. “Adorn it with ribbons, ornaments, pine cones, ornamental twigs or aspen branches, wrapped boxes that mimic presents, foliage from a flower shop or a few items gathered from a nature walk,” she says.

PHOTO: E.J. CARR

THINKING AHEAD: Wash your garland and wreaths next fall. Artificial greenery is often shunned from New Year’s Day through Thanksgiving, offhandedly relegated to the closet where it’s left to gather dust.

“Pull those suckers out in September or October and lay them on the driveway, lawn or a tarp. Give them a good hosing down and let them dry in the sun,” says Johannes.

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Coram Deo FINANCIAL

LIGHTBULB MOMENT

Four things Johannes and Mitchell-Smith have learned that the “light hanger” at home will understand too.

DON’T put a photocell timer in the dark.

RECOGNIZE where water will pool and fall when snow melts.

TEST everything before you get on the roof or climb a ladder.

RECONSIDER those icicle lights. Icicle lights can be beautiful if they fit evenly, but they come in fixed lengths and can’t easily conform to custom runs or tricky shapes, Johannes says.

ABOVE ALL HOLIDAY LIGHTING

Greenwood Village 303.578.8177 aboveallholidaylighting.com

Above A l l Holiday Lig ht ing—t heir Greenwood Village-based company that illuminates the roofs, doors, windows, pine trees and shrubs that dot Greenwood Village, Cherry Hills Village and Colorado Golf Club— are relatively new to the neighborhoods, creating custom wonderlands since 2017. But nearly 100 homes, ranging from ranches to sprawling mansions, are already privy to their expert eye: Mitchell-Smith, owner of Above All and a mountaineering guide, knows his way up and down a ladder and can summit a rooftop in a single leap. And Johannes, partner at Above All, has a background in design and account management, which makes her a natural when it comes to planning.

Mitchell-Smith first took his love of lights professional five years ago, tackling Clark W. Griswold-esque projects with a fellow professional in Parker and Colorado Springs before meeting Johannes. “Parker and I love decorating, and we’re the ones that always put up Christmas lights for our extended families,” Johannes says. “We

knew that with our combined backgrounds, we could take away the difficulty and stress of holiday lighting.” Difficulties, for example, like untangling jumbled piles of unwieldy Christmas lights.

The duo also knew those hobbyist experiences would give their displays a little extra magic: “We take into consideration things like where the family is going to spend the most time and which windows the kids are most likely to peek out of,” Johannes says.

“We do everything from taking photos and measurements to designing and installing lights, running wires to power sources and maintaining and removing lights, plus we make custom wreaths, banister wraps, garland and bows.” The Above All team can also light outdoor trees that are up to 30 feet tall.

“We do straight, uniform lines of lights, which look more modern and on-trend,” Johannes says. That’s not to say that Johannes and Mitchell-Smith are purists. “We love 36

december 2019 // AvidLifestyle

creating displays with polka dot, spiral and quilt shapes and designs,” she continues.

“And while the most popular roofline color is warm white lights, a candy cane design—a swirl of red and white lights—is beautiful, too, as are blue accent colors, which really draw the eye.”

Consider asking Johannes and Mitchell-Smith about bulbs if you see them on the street (they continue to check on lights they’ve hung throughout the season). LED lights surpass incandescent glass bulbs every time, Johannes explains: “LED lights don’t get hot or break, so they fare much better in Colorado’s harsh winter weather.”

And do take the family to Johannes’ favorite display: “There’s a home on Monaco Street in Greenwood Village, between Orchard Road and East Belleview Avenue, that’s gorgeously adorned with multicolored lights. You can see Christmas coming from a mile away.” Use the visual estimate to determine just how long to heat your travel mug of cocoa.

FOR THOSE WITH

whiskey wish list.

ON THEIR

T HE J A C K D A NIE L’ S HOL ID AY C OUN T DO W N C A L E ND A R .

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This Holiday Season,

Give the Gift of Golf

Delight the golfer in your life with the Golf Passport.

With savings on green fees and added benefits, it will make any golfer happy!

A Golf Passport Membership includes: • Up to 60% off green fees at 65 • Free Callaway Chrome Soft golf balls, of Colorado’s best courses free beers, free wedge and hybrid • Retail savings and more!

Plus, for a limited time only, buy a Golf Passport and get a FREE golf vacation!* For full details and to order, visit coloradoavidgolfer.com/golf-passport *Offer includes Complimentary Two Night Stay at CasaBlanca Resort and Two Rounds of Golf at CasaBlanca or Palms Golf Club in Mesquite, NV. Limited time offer. While supplies last. Valid with purchase of $79.95 or above.

PHOTO: CHAD CHISHOLM, CUSTOM CREATIONS; CURATED BY JANI DUNCAN SMITH AND KENDALL KOSTELIC

Hello Friend horse sculpture, $179, lulu’s furniture and decor, Kent Place, 303.756.2222, lulusfurniture.com

Good Things, Small Packages

Veteran holiday revelers know the drill: When it comes to gift shopping in December, the devil is in the details. Stocking stuffers, hostess gifts and the small goodies that accompany major items are the pieces that can leave a day at the shops feeling like that of the devilish proverb’s origin—largely unresolved.

Allow us to fill in those gaps with our first-ever gift guide, sorted by interest.

Expect an influx of thank-you notes.

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Cyan Design Trotter sculpture, $299, and Equestrian Rider set of Scooter: The Biography of Phil Rizzuto by Carlo DeVito, $170, both at lulu’s furniture and decor; Tibby backpack, $74, at Conservatrice, Littleton, 303.733.2391, conservatrice.com; Roeckl gloves with rhinestone detail, contact store for pricing, at The Perfect Fit Saddlery, theperfectfitsaddlery.com; Frame Grand Oval belt, $220, and Eden silk scarf, $126, both at Rebel, Greenwood Village, 720.283.1004, facebook.com/shoprebel

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PHOTO: CHAD CHISHOLM, CUSTOM CREATIONS

The Equestrian

Room to house and admire stallions, geldings and mares is the reason this friend or family member moved to this side of town.

DESIGN PERFECTED 1038 Bannock Street Denver, CO 80204 303.777.5409

Imagine what we could design for you.

KitchenDistributors.com

1309 W. Littleton Blvd.

Littleton, CO 80120 303.795.0665

Seda France Pagoda candles in Hyacinth, Malaysian Bamboo and Rhubarb Pear, $18 each; and stone bird planter, $18, all at Conservatrice; Handcarved wood wine holder, $89; and one-of-a-kind tic-tac-toe set, $36, at Curate: A Local Mercantile, Centennial, 303.770.7030, curatemercantile.com; Skouras Moscofilero 2018 white wine, $18, and Redentore Refosco red wine, $22, both at Bouzy Wine and Spirits, Greenwood Village, 303.798.4357, bouzywine.com; Kilim blanket, $79.95; Dwell, Gather, Be: Design for Moments

by Alexandra Gove, $35; and brass dome and cone candle holders, starting at $110, all at Hygge Life, hyggelife.com; Dartington Crystal Renoir Moulin de la Galette vase, $65, at T is for Table, Centennial, 303.347.9988, tisfortable.com

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PHOTO: CHAD CHISHOLM, CUSTOM CREATIONS

The Homebody

They are happiest spending time in their own kingdom.

Celebrate the Spree Treat yourself to something fun in Aurora with local boutiques, one-of-a-kind shops and national brands.

Go Big

Squadron, Stanley Marketplace

GoAurora.org

PHOTO: CHAD CHISHOLM, CUSTOM CREATIONS

The Bookworm

There is no better time to curl up with a good read (or wonder at a just-found rare edition) than in the dead of winter.

Chestnut and charcoal poker boxes, $68 each; flask (with measuring cups and funnel) gift set, $98; Viski Harrison cigar case, $38; Viski Irving rocks glasses, $32 for set of 2; and Viski Glacier Rocks cubes, $18, all at T is for Table; Locke + Co. Aspen aged rye, $70, at Bouzy Wine and Spirits; The Pooh Dictionary: The Complete Guide to the Words of Pooh & All the Animals in the Forest by A.R. Melrose with decorations by Ernest H. Shepard (first edition); A Yankee in King Arthur’s Court

by Mark Twain (1880 edition); Alexander Hamilton by Ron Chernow (signed 2004 copy); The Secret History by Donna Tartt (signed 1992 copy); From Snow to Snow by Robert Frost (signed 1944 copy); and Alice in Wonderland: Through the Looking Glass by Lewis Carroll, with illustrations by Sir John Tenniel (1865 edition, 1973 reprint), contact store for pricing, all at The Hermitage Bookshop, Cherry Creek North, 303.388.6811, hermitagebooks.com; decorative logs, starting at $16, at Conservatrice; Small Batch Candle matches, $4, and Sass blanket scarf, $19.99, at Curate: A Local Mercantile

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A LEANER, STRONGER, FEMININE PHYSIQUE

Thoughtfully designed classes • Personal Training • Professional Airbrush Spray Tanning

First Class Just $10

balmfit.com • cherry hills • (303) 249-0241

Marc Fisher LTD Alva snake print bootie, $224; Om diamond necklace, $600; hair tie, $45; Hammitt Roger clutch, $315; Chan Luu black pearl bracelet, $115; gold pavé necklace with drop pearl, $360; and Buddha-face stone and diamond necklace, $800, all at Rebel

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PHOTO: CHAD CHISHOLM, CUSTOM CREATIONS

The Stylist

She’s not a professional wardrobe consultant, but she should be.

DAY 1 Meet your golf, fitness + wellness coaches Authentic Los Cabos food + entertainment

DAY 2 Land + sea yoga Golf instruction, fitness, + play at Palmilla Golf Club Cooking classes + one-onone wellness Dinner at Flora Farms

DAY 3 Scenic hike + kayaking Golf instruction + fitness at Cabo Del Sol Meditation-sculpt mashup In-villa massages Dinner on Palmilla Beach

DAY 4 Healthful brunch Wellness From Every Sphere Workshop

JANUARY 17 - 20, 2020

|

LOS CABOS, MEXICO

A curated combination of Los Cabos luxury, expert golf instruction and mind + body wellness.

Featuring PGA certified instructors, Dustin Miller and Brett Chalmers, along with strength training and integrative wellness coaches.

WELL + AWAY AROUND THE WORLD Save the date for Cuvée’s 2020 wellness retreats around the globe.

BIG ISLAND, HAWAII

ROYAL ISLAND, BAHAMAS

VAIL VALLEY, COLORADO

APRIL 23-26, 2020

JUNE 25-28, 2020

SEPTEMBER 10-13, 2020

C U V E E . C O M / W E L L N E S S | C H R I STA @ C U V E E . C O M | 7 2 0 . 5 1 2 . 8 0 1 7 Starting at: $2,850 per person (plus taxes + fees). Includes: Comprehensive wellness and golf program, expert fitness instruction, all culinary experiences, meals, and beverages, ultra-luxury accommodations in a 1 bedroom suite at Cuvée’s Los Cabos villas. Villas will be shared with fellow retreat guests.

PHOTO: CHAD CHISHOLM, CUSTOM CREATIONS

The Outdoorsperson

Nearly every Colorado trail, fourteener and ski hill is on these adventure seekers’ must-visit list.

Stainless-steel growler and tumbler pack, $49.99, and electric D301 quartz chronographic watch, $129.99, both at Sierra, Greenwood Village and other area locations, 800.713.4534, sierra.com; Outside Inside Gifts gourmet pour-over java set, $39.95; Eagle Creek No Matter What duffel bag in Red Clay, $80; Cyber Tool Torch multi-tool, $24.95; and flashlight lanterns, $9.95 each, all at Paradise Baggage Company, Englewood, 303.320.4646, paradisebaggage.com; leather pocket travel journal, $26.95, at Curate: A Local Mercantile

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Napkin box and polar bear weight set, $48; garlic, lemon and rosemary infused olive oils, $17 each; Le Cadeaux cheese board and knife set, $32; Bella Cucina Peperoncini and Pimenton Savory Salts, $14; and Bloody Mary kitchen towel, $12, all at T is for Table; salt cellar, starting at $69.95, and brass spoon, $17.50, both at Hygge Life; Mud Pie copper cheese markers, $18, at Curate: A Local Mercantile; The Real Dill Bloody Mary Mix, $13.99; Divina jalapeño stuffed olives, $7.99; Tillen Farms by Stonewall Kitchen Pickled Crunchy Carrots, $8.99, and Tillen Farms by Stonewall Kitchen Pickled Dilly Beans, $8.99, all at Tony’s Meats and Market, Centennial, 303.770.7024, Castle Pines, 303.814.3888, Littleton, 720.377.3680, tonysmarket.com; Telluride Distilling Company vodka, $22, at Bouzy Wine and Spirits

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PHOTO: CHAD CHISHOLM, CUSTOM CREATIONS

The Foodie

You’re not always sure what, exactly, they are preparing, but the end result is usually delicious.

RuMe phone clutch in Lumberjack, $21.95, and C-Fold bag in Lumberjack, $32.95, both at RuMe, Centennial, 866.921.0475, myrume.com; LugLoc luggage locator, $69.95; lighted opera glasses in Champagne, $45; and Travelon family passport wallet, $21, all at Paradise Baggage Company; Hammitt 35 North wristlet, $245, at Rebel; Weekend in Barcelona bag, $79, at Conservatrice

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PHOTO: CHAD CHISHOLM, CUSTOM CREATIONS

The Frequent Flyer

The traveler can perform the preflight safety speech verbatim, just for fun.

TM

READY TO WEAR

// shop to watch

A LIVING SKI LEGACY

The industry-changing work of Frank Bulkley II is alive and well—in the form of a ski shop just down the street.

By Ali Longwell

slopes. It’s called the Eskimo Ski and Board Shop, his gear boutique that opened with the club in 1939, and it’s very close to home—in a small storefront off South Holly Street and East County Line Road.

TO SAY THAT most Colorado residents would recognize the name Frank Bulkley II is somewhat of an understatement. The ski industry pioneer—a Colorado Ski Hall of Famer—was instrumental in creating the Winter Park Express.

He was also behind one of the first ski schools in Colorado: the Eskimo Ski Club, which is estimated to have introduced at least 250,000 children to the sport.

Now run by Frank Bulkley III, who is in his sixties, this year marks the shop’s 80th anniversary.

“Besides being one of the oldest ski shops in the country, we’re a specialty shop,”says Bulkley III. He fills the locale with everything needed to get in a great run, whether you’re buying or renting ski gear, a board or snowshoes. The team is also a full-service repair and maintenance shop known for its craftsmanship. “We aren’t a big box guy,” he continues. “Big box guys play with price. We play with service, and our prices are competitive with the big guys.”

The state mourned his passing in 2012, but there is still a place to relish his unrelentless love of the

The place has seen many reinventions since it opened in Winter Park during the ski mountain’s first year. Following World War II, where Bulkley II taught skiing and rock climbing to soldiers of

PHOTOS: COURTESY OF ESKIMO SKI AND BOARD SHOP

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READY TO WEAR

// shop to watch

PHOTOS: COURTESY OF ESKIMO SKI AND BOARD SHOP

GEAR UP

Eskimo Ski and Board Shop Centennial 303.761.1101 eskimoshop.com

the 10th Mountain Division and served as a first lieutenant with the 42nd infantry in Europe, he reopened the shop in Denver. “And it just kind of grew from there,” says Bulkley III. “He was one of those guys that had no problem taking chances. He was a good entrepreneur.”

Dad passed those business smarts on to Bulkley III, who has worked at the shop since high school lacing up and fitting ski boots, and then some.

“I think I always liked skiing more than my dad,” he says. “For some people skiing is just fun and recreation, but for me it has always been a real lifestyle.”

THE ANATOMY OF A SKI BOOT Even as the owner of Eskimo Ski and Board Shop today, Frank Bulkley III still considers his title to be boot fitter. “A lot of people who come to the shop don’t know I own the place,” he says. This is how he analyzes for a perfect fit.

FLEXIBILITY: To start, Bulkley watches the flexibility of the wearer and then the boot. There are four to five tests he does to determine someone’s range of motion, measuring the flexibility of knees, ankles and arches. He has shoppers sit in a “90-90-90” position where the ankles, knees and back are at, you guessed it, 90 degrees. Then he sees how far you can roll up on your heels and, by pulling your big toe, tests how far arches flex. Overall, less flexibility means a softer boot and more flexibility means a more expensive, stiffer boot.

FOOT SHAPE: He checks for foot width and length and whether or not you have an insole, a high or low instep, flat feet or feet that “roll” to the outside.

BOOT FIT: A big focus for Bulkley, and it should be for you, is tightness. If a boot is too loose, you’ll have to work a lot harder to get your skis to perform, “plus you can get cramps,” he says. If the boot is too tight, “your feet fall asleep and freeze when you’re out. It gets very uncomfortable.”

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Skiing has, to say the least, changed since the shop’s beginning. For the Bulkleys, the biggest shift was the creation of large skiing conglomerates like Vail Resorts, Inc. and Alterra Mountain Company, Eskimo’s largest competitors. But the family isn’t worried. Service and product expertise, Bulkley III says, have kept them fighting the “big guys.”

The Eskimo Ski Club remained at Winter Park until last year, when the resort announced that it needed club headquarters for more employee locker space. Bulkley and his sister, who was running the ski school, have no plans to reopen the club themselves, but wouldn’t mind if Winter Park or any of the instructors started it up again.

“Dad, and he passed this along to me, believed that, yes, you have to make money doing this,” says Bulkley III. “But rather than gouging people, he wanted to try to get as many people skiing [and now snowboarding] as possible. … I try to make a business out of this, but if I could pass the love of the sport on to customers for free, I would.”

READY TO WEAR

// holiday style

TREND REPORT

If there’s one person who knows how to take holiday party outfits to the next level, it’s a former Mrs. Colorado turned pageant coach, event planner, stylist and personal shopper, who has been dressing partygoers across Colorado for more than a decade.

Christina Sacha, owner of CREATING THE PERFECT YOU, explains some of the biggest seasonal options.

STAYING WARM,

By Kelly Smith

but sophisticated WAYS TO WEAR WRAPS

PLAID “Plaid is not necessarily a new trend, but rather a pattern that never goes out of style. Earth tone plaids (think Burberry and Channel iterations)—whether on a dress, scarf, handbag or heels—are a sophisticated party choice.”

1 “Sling the wrap over your shoulders and throw one side over the opposite shoulder to create a cowl neckline,” Sacha says.

LEATHER “Real fur becoming a thing of the past (due to people’s growing knowledge and opinion) has made leather and suede a go-to texture for formal occasions. Many top designers are opting to showcase their pieces in the fabrics. Leather can be worn in any color no matter the season.“

2 Just drape it.

“Don’t tie or tightly wrap.

Overall, a shawl should be worn to look effortless, as if you just threw it over your shoulder.”

BOWS The 21st century is about bold statements, says Sacha.

“Right now, that means showcasing a dramatic bow. … But do be careful with the trend. Always be aware of your most flattering curves. A large or accent bow should not necessarily bring attention to an area that is already highlighted in your figure. The current styles seem to put bows on the shoulder, on your back at the waist or behind the neck. Do trust the designer: Most pieces won’t lead you astray. Bows are also great on a handbag or on the wrist of elegant gloves.”

3 “Another classy option is to drape the wrap from the front over your shoulders, with both ends hanging over your back. This usually isn’t as warm, but it’s stylish.”

BOOTS “A high-heel ankle, knee-high or just-above-the-knee boot can make a cocktail dress or slim-legged slack chic, but still formal. Save flat boots for a more casual evening.”

Updates to FAUX FUR SHRUGS This year, says Sacha, opt for a waist-length jacket with buttons rather than a zipper, which is more casual. “A statement-making animal print (like leopard or zebra) is a great option for faux fur jackets that will be worn over solid-color ensembles. I would not recommend this for a plaid or printed evening outfit. … And don’t forget long leather gloves that would make even Audrey Hepburn take notice.”

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INFLUENCERS

// man of the hour

Secret Santa THE MYTH, THE MAN, THE TALENT AGENT

By Bruce Abels

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INFLUENCERS

// man of the hour

HE’S LARGER-THAN-LIFE, a global icon, the embodiment of the Christmas spirit, a man on a mission for good. And he goes by Santa Claus, and the name Larry Propp. At Park Meadows, the two monikers are one and the same.

Propp has been the primary Santa at the shopping destination since 2011. His jolly personification has become so instrumental to the season that Park Meadows designed some of its current “traditional Santa set” around Propp’s characterization— something that hundreds of Santas nationwide aren’t surprised to hear. When Propp isn’t busy being Lone Tree’s beloved Saint Nick, he’s recruiting, training and representing strictly vetted Santas through his Sterling-based talent agency, Propp’er Way Association Santa Agency. Although this is his busiest time of year, the big man in red made time to talk Santa training, naughty and nice lists and more.

DEAR SANTA...

PHOTO: COURTESY PARK MEADOWS

PHOTOS: COURTESY LARRY PROPP

Santa always gets unusual gift requests, like a child asking for Hanukkah candles. Here are a few others Propp has heard.

Gas pump: “So his parents don’t argue about paying to fill up the car.”

Egg incubator: “To raise quail and pheasants for hunting.”

Toothpick: “I never figured that one out.”

Worms: “He wanted bait to go fishing.”

PHOTO: COURTESY LARRY PROPP

What is the best part about being Santa Claus?

“My favorite age group has always been children from three to eight, and the older children over the age of 80, otherwise known as grandmas! I also enjoy reconnecting with those families who come to see me year after year. For the last eight years that’s been at Park Meadows and, before that, five years in Concord, New Hampshire.”

Where else will people find you besides Park Meadows?

“This year, I have some private events and also a ‘hot cocoa with Santa’ through some Denver churches for communities in need. Another special event is held at Park Meadows for autistic children.”

But the most gratifying request for Propp is when he’s asked to be part of a marriage proposal, which happens at least once a year. The significant other makes arrangements with one of Santa’s helpers in advance, who then slips the engagement ring to Santa.

Then Santa takes over and gently cajoles the couple into talking about their future plans. The arranger drops on one knee, Santa produces the ring and its tears and cheers all around.

Where does Santa take a vacation?

“In spring, I’ll be taking one of those European river cruises.”

Do kids ever ask about your naughty and nice lists? Are they nervous to hear your answer?

“I hear that all the time. I use a little spinner with an arrow that points to naughty or nice. I spin it and it always stops on nice. The kids are very relieved.”

What do you tell kids who want everything on their list?

“Today, kids show up with lists printed out, on their phones or even bring a whole catalog! I go through it with them and then ask which one gift they really, really want.”

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PHOTO: COURTESY LARRY PROPP

You work hard to ensure as many kids meet Santa as possible. Tell us about that.

“As Santa I’ll tell you we have more elves and reindeer at the North Pole than there are stars in the sky, so they help a lot. From the business side, the Santa Agency has more Santas than there are days in the year. We train them, create their bios and resumés and work closely with the two largest Santa photography contracting agencies to place them in malls all over the country.”

What makes a great Santa?

“First, he must be a real-bearded Santa and have a good head of hair—we do bleach a lot of Santas, including me, so the beard and hair is white. He must have a jokester-type personality and be someone who can play and talk with children, and do it in a loving way. He should have a jolly, robust image, a fairly deep voice, be an easy talker and must be neat and clean.

And he needs to be eager to play Santa: If he’s in it for the money, I’m not going hire him. Finally, he must be in good health. Being Santa is hard work!”

E. Hampden Ave.

E. Quincy Ave.

Hi g

I-25

nal ne Ca hli

E. Belleview Ave.

E. Orchard Rd.

S. Quebec St.

S. Holly St.

Crossings at High Line Canal

S. Colorado Blvd.

S. University Blvd.

Glenmoor Country Club

I-225

INFLUENCERS

// the game changer Centennial 720.484.5348 awlashesco.com

Eye Candy

PHOTOS: E.J. CARR, MODEL: NICOLE MORCELLI

AW LASHES

WHEN IT COMES TO A PROPER SET OF VOLUME LASH EXTENSIONS, there’s one woman—according to the tens of thousands of lash extension experts learning from her, at least— that can fan them on better than most.

By Jennie Nunn

LASH TALK

How Weisenburger vets artists The training: In Colorado, anyone with a license in cosmetology can legally do lashes, says Weisenburger.

Make sure your artist is trained and certified specifically in lash extensions—don’t be afraid to ask where someone did their training.

The credentials: For a classic set of lashes, your artist should have a minimum of six months of experience.

For volume lashes, make sure they have been doing lashes for at least two years.

ALEXIS WEISENBURGER, founder of the Centennial-based beauty spa AW Lashes, changed the course of her life with one important purchase: a Groupon coupon. “The first-ever eyelash course that I took was found and purchased through Groupon,” recounts the Utah native. “It was a small, one-day course that had minimal supplies … but I was hooked.”

Weisenburger, who initially thought she wanted to be a registered nurse, got her certificate in dental assisting in high school and became a certified nursing assistant. “After working in those fields for several years though, I didn’t feel that I had completely found my calling in life,” she admits. “I wanted to help people and give them more confidence. My role model, my grandmother, inspired me to try cosmetology school.”

Helping people look and feel beautiful through in vogue eyelash extensions, it turns out, is that calling.

Weisenburger was one of the first artists in the beauty industry to specialize in mega-volume lashing, that very full, dramatic look that started hitting salons and changing industry standards in 2017. She has trained lash artists in the technique at trade shows and worked with companies to “help others with the basics and the tips and tricks that have helped me reach the level I am at today.”

She also co-created the Lash Pod by Bella Lash, a time-efficient, ergonomically friendly and hygienic wrist device that makes “lashing” faster, and developed lash extension training programs at Borboleta Beauty, as well as an online education system for Bella Lash.

“All lash artists are initially trained in classic lashing,” explains Weisenburger. “Volume lashing is much more flexible and gives experts the ability to create so many different looks and modify lashes to cater to eye shape. I was introduced to volume lashing early on in my 62

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The style: Most lash artists and salons will have a social media presence on Instagram and Facebook. Look at the pictures they post: Do you like the way the lashes look? Could you picture the work they do on you? When you zoom in on the pictures what kinds of details can you see?

The reputation: What kinds of reviews is the artist getting? Is the feedback primarily positive or negative?

How did the artist handle negative responses? career and I loved it. I worked extremely hard to master fans and become the best I could at the technique.”

And for the past eight years, south suburban residents (and notables like influencers Shanna LeRoy of The LeRoys and Ashley Gardner from Gardner Quad Squad) have been reaping the benefits at her eponymous lash boutique, now complete with five “lash bars.”

“Even in school, I just kind of did this for fun,” adds Weisenburger. “But if I died tomorrow, this is what I would want to be known for.”

WAYFARERS

// traveler’s choice PHOTO: WINTER PARK RESORT VIA FACEBOOK PHOTOS: COURTESY THE BERGEON FAMILY

BACKCOUNTRY

Bliss

HOW A LONE TREE FAMILY RINGS IN EACH NEW YEAR IN THE MOUNTAINS— WITHOUT CRAZY CROWDS.

By Laurel Thompson

PHOTO: THE MAYOR OF HEIDI TOWN VIA FACEBOOK

THERE’S SO MUCH TO LOVE about winter in Colorado. For most, skiing is the highlight of the season. But for the Bergeon family, solid slopes are just the tip of the mountain-escapades iceberg. Every year, the Lone Tree family rounds up their Midwest and East Coast relatives for a week of adventure in one of the state’s oldest areas for seasonal fun and games: Winter Park.

“Lots of people from out of town tend to favor the more well-known ski towns, like Vail, Aspen and Breckenridge,” says Annette Bergeon.

“But we love Winter Park because the mountain is incredible and there is so much more to do than just ski. So, we bought a condo and made it our official vacation spot back in 2005.”

PHOTO: WINTER PARK RESORT VIA FACEBOOK

WHY NEW YEAR’S? “New Year’s is the perfect time to get everyone up to the condo because the kids all have that week off school. My extended family is scattered all over the country and has Christmas traditions with their own families, parents and in-laws, which makes gathering for other holidays difficult. We also tend to be big gift givers, so hauling all of those Christmas gifts to Winter Park can be a logistical challenge.”

STEERING CLEAR OF THE BEATEN PATH “Our condo is right up against Mary Jane Mountain, and there’s a trailhead that leads to hundreds of miles of fresh powder and beautiful scenery. The Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests are directly adjacent to the town of Winter Park—it wraps around the east, south and west sides. There are maps available that show the network of trails, but the trails themselves are not always well marked so a GPS tracking 64

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system is helpful. Our favorite trails are called Twin Bridges and Blue Sky.” REVVING UP The Bergeons’ favorite activity is all about 40 mph speeds in knee-deep powder: “While the snowmobile tours are great for beginners, you have a guide who has lots of rules to follow.

We’ve accumulated five snowmobiles over the years, so we can just take off into the national forest and go wherever, whenever. We also like to strap our skis to our snowmobiles and ride up to the Pioneer Express lift or Snoasis at Winter Park Resort, so we don’t have to deal with crowded shuttle buses and full parking lots.” For beginning snowmobilers, Bergeon recommends Grand Adventures for a guided ride. grandadventures.com/snowmobiling ABOUT SKIING “Skiing is, of course, always a must. Since we usually have everyone with us (kids and grandparents included), we focus on things everyone can enjoy, like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.”

THEN, IT’S TIME TO TUBE “One thing the kids really love is the Historic Fraser Tubing Hill, which is about 10 minutes from Winter Park Resort. It’s much bigger than the Coca-Cola Tube Park directly on the ski hill and you definitely get up to faster speeds.

We like to wind down around the outdoor fire pit while drinking hot cocoa and boozy adult drinks.” frasertubinghill.com

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WWW.CASTLEPINESVILLAGELOTS.COM All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed and should be independently verified. All properties are subject to prior sale, change or withdrawal. Neither listing broker(s) nor Kentwood Real Estate shall be responsible for any typographical errors, misinformation, misprints and shall be held totally harmless.