November//December 2023 Buffalo HOME Magazine

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Julie Muscato Home & Gifts

elevate your space with lockport’s premier interior design haven - page 7 -

home for the holidays

Make your home cozier this winter with tips from @MapleHouseBuffalo, @Valvano Homestead, and @Growingwith.in

Transform your home with house crafters! -BACK COVER-

Buffalo’s Michaela Fuchs cooks up tasty allergy-friendly holiday treats and gives her delicious recipes Buffalo | THEHOMEPUBLICATIONS.COM 1

CEO 2 THEHOMEPUBLICATIONS.COM | Buffalo

Vice President, Lead Designer

Buffalo | THEHOMEPUBLICATIONS.COM 3

© Olha Holubenko via www.behance.net

Celebrate

the holidays in luxury.

Give the gift of a Buffalo Staycation or treat yourself!

Enjoy a world-class meal, a high-end spa experience at The Harlow Spa, rooftop cocktails, a luxury overnight stay, and relax in our one-of-a-kind mineral infused hot springs.

- Gift Certificates Available Online -

New Year

Ring in the on the Rooftop at Vue! Join us for a celebration featuring hors d’oeuvres, dessert, open bar, champagne toast, DJ and fireworks!

Advance registrations are required - Reserve online!

4 THEHOMEPUBLICATIONS.COM | Buffalo

210 FRANKLIN STREET, BUFFALO CURTISSHOTEL.COM � 716.954.4900

PRODUCED BY FEATURED MEDIATM

on the cover 7 • Julie Muscato Home & Gifts Owner, Julie Muscato brings unique and personalized options to your home

features 11 • From the Artists’ Desk 14 • P.U.N.T. is Making a Difference with Sweet Buffalo 716

17 • Spotlight: Perry, NY 19 • In the Kitchen with @michaelas.plate

34 • Buffalovebirds Showcases the Best of WNY

37 • Spotlight: Hamburg, NY 40 • Surviving + Thriving the Holidays with tips from PowHERhouse Money

experience the magic of east aurora pg. 24 for the home pg. 46 50 • Comfort of Tidings and Joy

Creating a cozy home

Cover Photography: Sarah Christ, Featured Media™ Featured Media will make every effort to see that all advertising copy, which is neatly presented, is correctly printed. We will not be responsible for print quality of any advertising not created by Featured MediaTM personnel. We take no responsibility for statements or claims made in any advertisement. We reserve the right to refuse any and/or all advertising.

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HOLIDAY CHEER IN WNY

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ON THE COVER

Unlock Timeless Elegance with JULIE MUSCATO HOME AND GIFTS

E L E VA T E Y O U R S P A C E W I T H L O C K P O RT ’ S P R E M I E R I N T E R I O R D E S I G N H AV E N A RT I C L E BY S U Z I E W E L L S

Nestled on charming Walnut Street of Lockport, Julie Muscato Home & Gifts is a beacon of pride for its eponymous owner, Lockport native, Julie Muscato, who channels her passion for interior design into creating dream spaces for clients.

For over a decade, Julie and her dedicated team of designers have been the guiding force behind countless transformations. Their fullservice approach sets them apart, making them the exclusive interior design firm of its kind in Western NY. With an impressive 7,000 square foot showroom, now in its third year on Walnut St., Julie Muscato Home & Gifts offers a canvas as boundless as your imagination. The showroom is “a shopping experience” full of interior vignettes and displays as well as unique gift choices.

Buffalo | THEHOMEPUBLICATIONS.COM 7

Julie eagerly anticipates the upcoming holiday season, describing it as a time of unparalleled energy and joy, drawing people to her sanctuary of style. This infectious enthusiasm permeates every project, making each a testament to the passion and care invested.

When asked about her favorite aspect of the business, Julie doesn’t hesitate—it’s the clients. She revels in each project’s journey, from rapport-building, through design and installation, to witnessing client delight with final results.

The ultimate compliment, she notes, is when clients eagerly exclaim, “Let’s start the next room.”

Expanding horizons and embracing new challenges are the driving forces behind Julie Muscato’s business. Dedication to the customer experience has propelled them to impressive heights, and they’re eager for projects to come.

Interior design is the core of the business. Julie says, “We take on jobs of different sizes, full home designs, room by room, or à la carte shopping for individual pieces, large or small.” With 1,000s of fabrics and papers to choose from, as well as exquisite furniture from around the world, you’ll find the pieces to fit any space, budget, and idea. Julie scans the world for great pieces. Finding unique items and design ideas at a wide array of markets, she loves bringing designs and products home to Western NY. Step inside the showroom and discover a world like no other. A testament to the team’s discerning eye, it brims with curated vignettes and displays that beckon you to reimagine your own space. Julie Muscato Home & Gifts also offers a curated selection of home décor, gifts, and boutique clothing and jewelry.

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Unique & Personalized

“There’s no one else like us in Western NY – we are a full-service interior design firm with a beautiful furniture showroom. We are proud of our showroom, filled with gorgeous ideas, and a beautiful gift shop filled with home décor, gifts, small boutique clothing and jewelry.”

Julie says uniqueness is a cornerstone of their offerings.

With the vast selection of fabrics and papers for wall and window treatments, beautiful furniture to fit any vision, as well as one-of-a-kind clothing, accessories, and gifts, options are as diverse as your individuality.

When it comes to design wisdom, Julie advocates for timeless investments. “Be wary of trends. They come and go very quickly. Instead, focus on timeless, classic core pieces, and incorporate trends through accessories. That way, you can effortlessly refresh your space without a hefty price tag."

Julie’s praise extends to her exceptional staff. She says there’s always a designer on-hand to guide customers.

Their dedication ensures that Julie’s dream remains a tangible reality for the Western NY community.

Elevate your surroundings with Julie Muscato Home & Gifts. Visit them today at 1 Walnut St., Lockport, or explore their curated selection online at juliemuscatohomeandgifts. com. Let them turn your dreams into reality.

1 WALNUT ST. LOCKPORT, NY OPEN: MONDAY-FRIDAY 10-6 AND SAT 10-5 JULIEMUSCATOHOMEANDGIFTS.COM • 716.201.1274 Buffalo | THEHOMEPUBLICATIONS.COM 9

10 THEHOMEPUBLICATIONS.COM | Buffalo

It’s that time of year again! The season of good cheer and good tidings is upon us, and with a chill in the air, a pep in your step, and the scent of cinnamon all around us, there’s no better place to be than home for the holidays. Picture it now: wrapping gifts (and hiding them in nooks and crannies), decorating your home with the family, and pulling out the recipe book for a warm dinner just like Grandma used to make.

Deck the halls with Julie Muscato Home & Gifts, elevating your space for the season and year-round! Local influencers, Kristen Buscemi (@ MapleHouseBuffalo), Amber Valvano (@ValvanoHomestead), and Yeri Castillo (@GrowingWith.In) talk home design and styling, making the most of your space from tablescapes to creating warmth to finding inspiration.

Develop your own personal financial strategies and goal-setting essentials with Nicholle Overcame and Sarah Blankenship of PowHERhouse Money Coaching this holiday season! Avoid holiday stress—or at least the financial side of it!

The couple behind Buffalovebirds, Beau and Lindsay Riggs, showcase hotspots for date nights around Buffalo, creating a holiday “bucket list” and more family-friendly winter activities, spread joy in your own neighborhood! Need some sweet treats this season? Michaela Fuchs from @Michaelas.Plate offers up allergy-friendly recipes for the holidays, keeping bellies full and hearts warm with delicious charcuterie boards to some tasty cupcakes!

Sweet Buffalo showcases P.U.N.T., a pediatric cancer collaborative focused on Perseverance, Understanding, Need, and Teamwork, supporting families with kids with cancer, fulfilling holiday wishlists, taking kids to Buffalo Bills games, and easing financial strain.

With so much to see and do in the Buffalo area, spend a day exploring East Aurora! Just 30 minutes outside the Queen City, we love this village as a hub of winter fun, hiking trails, and a hidden gem of history in WNY. However you to celebrate, we hope your holidays are spent with those you cherish in the best place of all—Home.

585.226.8111 | team@gvpublications.com

www.thehomepublications.com

LAURIE ABBOTT | CARMEN CAMPBELL | CHRISTINE WHITE | KATHRYN BOOR | COLLEEN MANN | MANUEL KARAM CRISTIE LEONE | SARAH CHRIST | KARA IVISON | KAITLIN DONNAN | SUZIE WELLS | KAREN LICHNER | CAITLIN NEELAND CONTRIBUTING AUTHORS: CANDACE ALNAJI, ELIJAH ROBINSON, TRISH PINO

Buffalo | THEHOMEPUBLICATIONS.COM 11

HOLIDAY CHEER IN WNY

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M aking a Difference P.U.N.T. PEDIATRIC CANCER COLLABORATIVE OFFERS COMPASSIONATE SUPPORT FOR FAMILIES

BY SUZIE WELLS

Founded in 2004 by former NFL Pro Bowl P.U.N.T.er Brian Moorman, who played for the Buffalo Bills, and his wife, Amber, P.U.N.T. stands for Perseverance, Understanding, Need, and Teamwork. With passionate staff and leadership and strong financial support from the Western NY community, P.U.N.T.’s programs have grown significantly in both scope and impact, making the nonprofit organization a well-respected source of assistance for local families dealing with pediatric cancer.

P.U.N.T. offers six programs with critical and comprehensive financial, emotional, and practical support to families:

Helping Hands – Financial assistance with living expenses to help make ends meet: Families battling pediatric cancer face crippling financial strain.

Pediatric cancer hospitalizations cost nearly five times more than other conditions, averaging $40,000 per stay. This program acts as a vital financial safety net. Social workers enlist P.U.N.T.’s aid for rent, mortgages, utilities, car payments, and home repairs.

P.U.N.T. also covers all funeral expenses for children lost to pediatric cancer in the community. This initiative offers crucial relief amid the immense burdens of pediatric cancer treatment.

Adopt a Family – Home for the Holidays Fund: Donors help fill families’ wishlists during the holidays so parents and caregivers can spend their time and resources on being with their child during their biggest challenges. This also funds social worker requests to help high need families facing pediatric cancer with a direct mortgage or rent payment, “giving parents in the fight for their child’s life the incredible gift of peace of mind during the holiday season.”

14 THEHOMEPUBLICATIONS.COM | Buffalo

Game Day: Bringing kids fighting cancer to cheer on the Buffalo Bills P.U.N.T.’s Suite 238A offers kids in active cancer treatment a special experience at Buffalo Bills games. This Game Day program provides a secure, comfortable space for families to cheer on their team and bond. In memory of Andrew Pawlak, a brave young fan who battled cancer, a generous gift will bring more families to games. Andrew’s love for the Bills lives on, giving families a chance to enjoy precious moments together amidst their cancer journey.

His legacy continues to make a meaningful impact through this initiative.

Locker Programs: For families dealing with a pediatric cancer diagnosis, the financial ripple effect can be debilitating. P.U.N.T.’s Locker programs provide the most basic of needs, stocked for hospital social workers’ discretion to distribute gas and grocery cards, as well as food and parking vouchers. These simple tokens can make a significant impact to lessen the daily stressors that weigh on a family in the fight.

Ultimate Compassion: Bereavement program A child’s cancer diagnosis shatters a family’s world. If the battle is lost, the family is left with profound loss and a lingering fear of fading memories. P.U.N.T.’s annual “Remembrance Weekend” retreat aims to provide solace through therapeutic and social activities. Families come together to find hope, heal, and learn coping strategies while honoring their loved one’s memory. This event is organized in collaboration with experts from Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Oishei Children’s Hospital, and Essential Care for Kids/Hospice Buffalo.

HOLIDAY CHEER IN WNY

Field of Dreams: Special experiences, items, or opportunities to boost morale A family getaway, a gift card to do some shopping, a new bike, a new playset, bedroom furniture, a new doll, a chance to swim or have a special birthday party…these are just some of the morale boosts P.U.N.T. provides to ease the heartache of young cancer warriors through the Field of Dreams program.

I am continuously amazed by the incredible work that P.U.N.T. Pediatric Cancer Collaborative does for children battling cancer and their families in Western New York. No family fights alone thanks to the support of P.U.N.T. and their dedicated staff and volunteers.

Sweet Buffalo is proud to partner with such a kindhearted and genuine nonprofit organization whose positive reputation in the community speaks volumes. This holiday season we encourage everyone to make a donation to P.U.N.T. to continue their critical mission of allowing parents to focus on what matters most: being there for their sick child.

- Kimberly LaRussa, founder of Sweet Buffalo

For more “Just Great Feels!” stories visit: SWEETBUFFALO716.COM FB + IG @SweetBuffalo716 TikTok @SweetBuffaloToTheRescue Buffalo | THEHOMEPUBLICATIONS.COM 15

HOLIDAY CHEER IN WNY

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IN THE KITCHEN

@michaelas.plate

COOKING UP TASTY ALLERGY-FRIENDLY HOLIDAY TREATS

For law student and self-defined “Buffalo foodie,” Michaela Fuchs, baking and cooking have always been passions as well as “nice ways to decompress and take a break!” She feels fortunate for family that supports her “constant desire to try new recipes, and they’re always ready to be [her] taste testers.”

Michaela’s biggest inspiration in the kitchen is her health. She says that when she learned she had some food allergies, she wanted to find safe versions of recipes she knew and loved – hence her initial attraction to the kitchen. She feels lucky her parents allowed her the opportunity as a kid to make recipes and sweet treats alongside them! Now that she’s older and knows more about cooking and baking, she loves to share her passion and recipes with family and friends.

Michaela enjoys winter around Buffalo with her family, especially sleigh rides and cocoa at Kelkenberg Farms, or staying warm with shows at Shea’s with dinner in and around the theatre district.

On her bucket list this year is visiting Coco’s Crepe Chalet.

NO-FUSS HOLIDAY MEALS, DESSERTS & DRINKS

My biggest suggestion for no-fuss holiday recipes is to gravitate toward things that you are already comfortable with and put a holiday spin on it. I personally love using seasonal baking molds, like the snowflake-shaped tin that I use for my Upside Down Coffee Cakes.

family and friends. Being able to adapt recipes that you know and love will help you to do that!

I also try to plan ahead. This can help both with budgeting, as the holidays can be expensive, and with stress levels. My family also goes above and beyond with decorations for the holidays. One of my favorite ways to quickly dress up our table or island is to grab a small bouquet from Wegmans. They have a variety of sizes and never fail to surprise me with how long they last.

CHARCUTERIE BOARDS TIPS & MUST-HAVES

Whether we are having people over or just decide that we’re in the mood for a charcuterie board, I always try to have my favorites on hand: TopSeedz grainfree crackers, prosciutto, caramel (I love the Fat Toad Farm brand), sourdough bread (I always grab BreadHive’s West Side sourdough), jam, favorite cheeses, and fruit.

When making a cheese board, I always aim to have both a soft and a hard cheese (pick your favorites!), a meat, and whatever your heart desires. Pick between sweet or savory and go from there! For example, if I want a sweeter board I might choose brie, jam, honey, some fruit, and sourdough or crackers. If I want something richer, I might choose a mixture of brie, gouda, and manchego, with prosciutto, roasted garlic, and TopSeedz or sourdough.

One of the most important things about the holidays is creating a low-stress time to relax and enjoy the day with your

BY SUZIE WELLS Buffalo | THEHOMEPUBLICATIONS.COM 19

HOLIDAY CHEER IN WNY

M OS CATO C U P CA K E S CUPCAKES 1 ¹/³ c. cassava flour (I use Otto’s Cassava Flour) ½ tsp. baking soda ½ tsp. baking powder ¼ tsp. salt ½ c. unsalted butter, softened 1 c. granulated sugar 2 large eggs 1 tsp. vanilla ½ c. sour cream or greek yogurt ½ c. Moscato FROSTING 1 c. unsalted butter, softened Roughly 2 ½ c. powdered sugar 1 c. Moscato

Preheat oven to 350° Fahrenheit. Line your cupcake tins with cupcake liners or cups.

In a bowl, mix together your dry ingredients: cassava flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.

In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together. Add in the eggs and beat until combined. Add vanilla and mix until just combined.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the Moscato and sour cream or yogurt. The mixture will fizz a bit, and this is normal.

Next, add the dry ingredients and Moscato mixture by alternating the additions into the bowl with the wet ingredients, mixing after each addition. It may be best to use an electric or stand mixer. The order will follow as: ¹/³ of the flour mixture, ½ the Moscato mixture, ¹/³ of the flour mixture, ½ of the Moscato mixture, ¹/³ of the flour mixture.

Fill cupcake liners ½ to ¾ full and bake for around 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center of the cupcake comes out clean.

20 THEHOMEPUBLICATIONS.COM | Buffalo

Once the cupcakes are removed from the oven, allow to cool before frosting. Before frosting, brush each cupcake with a light amount of Moscato. for frosting:

Add one cup of Moscato into a saucepan over medium-high heat. Reduce until the Moscato is more of a syrup-consistency and close to roughly two tablespoons in measurement.

In a bowl, cube the softened butter and beat on low using an electric mixer. Add the powdered sugar in ½ cup increments until you reach the desired consistency.

Once you have reached your desired consistency, add the reduced Moscato and an additional tablespoon of Moscato if desired.

Frost the cupcakes and decorate as you please.

In Buffalo: Hands-down, Toasted by Buffalo Beauty Foodie. Not only do they have some of the best coffee, but you will also find some of the kindest people who work there. Stopping in for coffee before I head to class truly makes my day better. For dinner options, I love to go to Giancarlo’s in Williamsville, notably the chocolate cake and wine; Black & Blue for the chopped salad; 189 Burger in East Aurora, Bella Ciao for their steak; Neat for their margaritas, as well as Trattoria Aroma in Williamsville and Mangia in Orchard Park.

At home: Marry Me Chicken, homemade soups, hearty pasta dishes, and always an array of roasted vegetables.

Traveling: Whenever I travel, I bookmark new restaurants and cafés to try. A favorite city for food I was in was Québec City!

Secret Indulgences: One of my secret indulgences is poutine! Maybe it is just my French-Canadian genes talking, but I will never skip an opportunity to make fresh-cut fries topped with homemade gravy and cheese (I usually opt for goat cheddar).

U P S I D E D OW N C O F F EE CA KES

MICHAELA’S FAVORITE FOODS & DRINKS

Begin by mixing the cinnamon and sugar. The amount of each ingredient will vary depending on how many people you are serving, but I would start with ½ c. brown sugar and 1 tbsp. cinnamon.

Dip the rim of each glass into caramel, and then into your cinnamon-sugar mixture. Set aside.

Wash and cut the honeycrisp apples. Again, the amount may vary depending on the number of your guests, but I had roughly 5-6 apple slices in each glass. Set aside.

APPLE CIDER SANGRIA Apple cider Sparkling white wine of your choice (I used Moscato) Caramel Cinnamon Granulated sugar Cinnamon sticks Honeycrisp apples

Fill each glass roughly halfway with apple cider.

Fill the rest of the desired glass with the sparkling white wine of your choice.

Add in a few apple slices and a cinnamon sticks and enjoy!

Note: If you have children who want to join in on this recipe, or you do not drink alcohol, feel free to omit the white wine and simply fill the glass all the way up with apple cider.

If you need to tell the glasses apart, you can always omit the cinnamon stick so you know that a given glass doesn’t have any alcohol.

1 ¹/³ c. cassava flour 2 tsp. baking powder ½ tsp. salt ½ c. unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

¾ c. sugar 2 large eggs ¾ c. milk 2 tsp pure vanilla extract

Preheat the oven to 350º F. Grease mini bundt pans and set aside.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the Cassava Flour, baking powder, and salt.

Set aside.

In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Add the eggs and mix well.

Combine the milk and vanilla extract in a measuring cup or bowl. Set aside.

Add half of the dry ingredients to the butter mixture. Stir until combined.

Next, add the milk mixture and stir.

Add the remaining dry ingredients and stir until no streaks of cassava flour remain.

Sprinkle a little butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon at the base of the mini bundt pans.

Add batter to each pan cavity until about ¾ full.

Bake for 16-19 minutes or until the tops of the cakes spring back when you lightly press them and a toothpick inserted into the center of the cupcake comes out clean.

Let cool completely.

Buffalo | THEHOMEPUBLICATIONS.COM 21

22 THEHOMEPUBLICATIONS.COM | Buffalo

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Nestled within Buffalo’s southtowns, East Aurora is an area rich in tradition and steeped in charm.

Whether you are a history buff, nature lover, shopping connoisseur, or discerning epicurean, East Aurora offers an array of activities to delight your senses. From the neon lights of the Aurora Theatre marquee to the quaint storefronts lining Main Street, a visit to East Aurora is a magical time.

M e h t a e g c i a r c b m • E E • c m i g brace th a M e Magi the

East Aurora

BY CANDACE ALNAJI

24 THEHOMEPUBLICATIONS.COM | Buffalo

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EAST AURORA, NEW YORK

____

VISIT

A Village with a Storied History

East Aurora has been home to many significant cultural movements and historical figures. It was central to the Arts & Crafts movement during the 19th century thanks to Elbert Hubbard, a Buffalo businessman and writer. Millard Fillmore, the nation’s 13th president, resided in East Aurora and his home—the Millard Fillmore House—stands proud as a restored museum and treasured piece of Village history welcoming visitors throughout the year.

The birthplace of Fisher-Price Toys, East Aurora remains home to the brand’s international headquarters. Today, East Aurora’s history and artistry blend with a modern “mustvisit” vibe that attracts travelers from around the globe.

ONE OF

�ollywood’� favo�ite �illages THIS

�oliday �eason!

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Blending Historic and Modern Executive Director of the Greater East Aurora Chamber of Commerce, Victoria Sturman, says, East Aurora “has this funky ambiance that mixes the historical and modern. There is a reason why Hollywood [holiday] movies have used the village as a backdrop. It just has that homey, all-American vibe that so many people are searching for these days.”

Explore the Village of East Aurora and find out why we’re a much-loved location for so many Christmas movies!

From unique restaurants to boutique, one-of-a-kind shops and fun entertainment, East Aurora is the perfect holiday destination.

____

But oh, So much fun During the summer months, crowds gather for the East Aurora Street Festival & Sidewalk Sale and Chalk Walk.

The Taste of East Aurora lets foodies indulge in the unique flavors the Village has to offer, and the Roycroft Campus Art & Antique Show highlights East Aurora’s artistic flair and history.

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East Aurora is also known for its music. In addition to live music playing at restaurants and bars year-round, the summer welcomes annual events like the village-wide East Aurora Music Fest and the Backyard Bash, an outdoor concert series held behind Vidler’s 5 & 10 (the world’s largest “five and ten” variety store). Finally, there is the Borderland Music and Arts Festival—a three-day music festival held at Knox Farm State Park that welcomes thousands.

Join us for the 51st Carolcade on Saturday, Dec. 23, at 7 p.m. on Main Street in East Aurora. This community caroling event is a joyous way to celebrate with friends and family.

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Purchase a Greater East Aurora Chamber of Commerce Gift Certificate Good at more than 80 local retailers, restaurants, entertainment venues, and other service providers!

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EAST AURORA, NEW YORK

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Winter in East Aurora Harkens to Simpler Times While revelry fills the Village in the warmer months, winter in East Aurora also has its celebrations. Join thousands of attendees and local musicians in singing Christmas carols during Carolcade, an annual community caroling event brightening spirits for the past 51 years. The festive event includes songbooks and free hot chocolate along with an appearance from Santa and fairy tale princesses. This year’s Carolcade will take place on Saturday, December 23rd from 7 to 8 p.m. on Main Street in East Aurora, between Elm/Riley Streets and Olean Road.

____

Family-Friendly Winter Fun Enjoy public ice skating at the East Aurora Classic Rink.

For thrill-seekers, Colden’s Buffalo Ski Center—located outside the Village within the Greater East Aurora region— is a fun and convenient winter destination for new and experienced skiers alike. For indoor family fun, Village Play gives families a safe and inviting place to gather no matter the season. In addition to holiday parties, the contemporary children’s play studio includes a variety of activity centers and climbing structures along with yoga classes, parent/child cooking classes, and special pop-up craft events.

____

Winter Hiking Opportunities Abound East Aurora is filled with beautiful parks and nature trails to enjoy year-round. Hunters Creek County Park on Centerline Road offers nature trails at various skill levels. For Amy Alexander, avid hiker, Greater East Aurora Chamber of Commerce Board Member, and owner of Metamorphosis Pilates & Bodywork in East Aurora, Emery Park and Knox Farm State Park are winter favorites. Alexander says, “Both are great for hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing.” Emery Park also offers snowmobile trails and Knox has heated bathrooms—a definite plus for winter hikers.

Another spot Alexander recommends within Greater East Aurora is JP Nicely Memorial Park in West Falls, whose well-maintained trails are fun to hike or snowshoe.

Outdoor enthusiasts can hike down to Cazenovia Creek, and the park includes a large green space perfect for cross-country skiing.

28 THEHOMEPUBLICATIONS.COM | Buffalo

Aurora Theatre

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Preservation Keeps East Aurora’s History Alive To Victoria Sturman, Knox Farm State Park is a “hidden gem.” Explore Knox Farm’s 6-acre dog park , paved walking trail, and its field and forest trails. The park is the former estate of the famed Buffalo Knox Family, encompassing 633 acres including 400 acres of grassland and 100 acres of woodlands, ponds, and wetland areas.

The New York Audubon Society and the Buffalo Audubon Society offer nature walks, and the New York State Naturalists offer many programs throughout the year. The Friends of Knox Farm State Park are dedicated to restoring many buildings on site, including the stables.

The park is also home to the Native Landscape Resource Center, a native plant nursery that grows plants for habitat restoration, landscaping, and gardening purposes.

____

Where to Shop, Eat, and Stay

Kickstand Culture

After a long day of exploration, head to one of East Aurora’s incredible dining establishments.

From traditional to eclectic, the Village is home to many popular bars and restaurants to tempt

your taste buds. Swing by Bar-Bill Tavern to indulge in classic Buffalo favorites such as jumbo chicken wings and beef on weck. For an upscale dining experience, reserve a table at Rick’s on Main. During the winter months, heated garden igloos line Rick’s porch-style patio and promise a truly whimsical dining experience.

Main Street is also home to an abundance of locally owned shops that offer a unique gifting experience. Just outside the village, shoppers can find bustling antique stores, consignment shops, and more. For farm-fresh food and artisan goods in the heart of winter, head a few minutes outside the Village to the beautiful and rustic Poplar Hill Estate for the East Aurora Winter Market.

And no visit to East Aurora is complete without a stay at the historic Roycroft Inn, located across from the Roycroft Campus on South Grove Street.

No matter where you go during your time in the Village, a day spent in East Aurora is a day well spent. In the words of Sturman, “East Aurora is a beautiful place to live, work, play, and visit.

The village is a destination—not just for visitors but for locals as well. East Aurora has something for everyone during any time of the year.”

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"

"We wanted to start sharing things that we were doing — date nights, fun places to get dinner, to tell our family and friends what’s happening down there as things were starting to change, and it became a big hit."

Buffalovebirds

Showcases the Best of WNY

BY ELIJAH ROBINSON

34 THEHOMEPUBLICATIONS.COM | Buffalo

HOLIDAY CHEER IN WNY

Buffalovebirds, Beau & Lindsay Riggs, have documented Buffalo’s renaissance since 2014. They love going on dates, especially ones around our city of Buffalo, NY. They use this opportunity to share news about the exciting things happening in downtown Buffalo — right outside their Hotel Lafayette window. And since having three children, the couple focuses more on familyfriendly spots on their blog and Instagram.

that of Buffalovebirds. Their lifestyle, parenting style, fashion, fitness, beauty, and kid stuff are always on display.

Often eager for adventure and always seeking out the best restaurants in town, friends and family look to them for advice on where to go, what to do, where to eat, and new date ideas! The couple’s evolution is mirrored by

The couple works on Buffalovebirds after work hours and on the weekends, when they create content, do research, interviews, and schedule content releases throughout the week.

“It was just a natural thing. It just kind of came and it’s grown and evolved. We keep learning and changing as things move about in the social media world, which is where we live. It just keeps growing,” Lindsay says.

Buffalo | THEHOMEPUBLICATIONS.COM 35

"

“We both have our day jobs — and we always have. But Buffalovebirds, we always say, is our other full-time job because any other waking moment we have, we live and breathe that,” Lindsay explains.

Lindsay says they share bucket list ideas with their audience as they do them. For the upcoming season, here's their Buffalo-centric bucket list: • Support local Christmas pop-up shops, such as the Buffalove Holiday Market and the Christkindlmarkt at Hofbräuhaus Buffalo • Visit Stony Brook Shines in Lancaster–they showcase houses in the neighborhood decked out as part of a fundraiser • For date night, visit the Mulberry Restaurant to see the beautiful decorations they put up for the season while enjoying their famous meatballs • Check out holiday trains; the train rides in Medina, Arcade, and Attica have the kids ride with Santa as they take in the beautiful scenery • Stop by the East Aurora Carolcade to experience people singing Christmas carols right in town Buffalovebirds also has fun do-it-yourself ideas for the kids.

Lindsay goes to Pinterest to brainstorm fresh ideas of ways they can get creative indoors when the weather outside is frightful and the fire inside is just so delightful.

• Attend Meet and Eat Charcuterie to learn how to put together a charcuterie board • Make homemade holiday cards, as they’re not only an idea to keep the kids occupied, but it also teaches them to spread love and show others they are thinking of them.

For winter family-friendly activities, Buffalovebirds knows Buffalo has lots to offer for holiday cheer.

• Ice at Canalside, where visitors can ice skate, hibernate inside an igloo, and enjoy hot chocolate • The Botanical Gardens have a railway set up inside the gardens • Holiday Valley in Ellicottville offers great activities, such as tubing, a sky flying mountain coaster, and skiing • Tifft Nature Preserve or Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve offers activities such as bird watching, scavenger hunts, and snowshoeing through the trails Buffalovebirds offers ideas to bring the family together for good causes in the community • Toys for Tots or any other local toy drive • Volunteer for FeedMore WNY and/or the Buffalo City Mission • Every Bottom Covered, a non-profit that collects and distributes diapers, wipes, other baby-related items, and feminine supplies, and uses financial donations for bulk purchases of diaper supplies then distributed directly to families throughout Western New York

36 THEHOMEPUBLICATIONS.COM | Buffalo

Follow along for more Buffalove fun on Instagram at @buffalovebirds

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PERSONAL FINANCE STRATEGIES FOR

Surviving and Thriving THROUGH THE HOLIDAYS & ALL YEAR LONG

WITH THE

PowHERhouse TEAM

With extra end of year stress, lots of festivities, responsibilities, and expectations, the holidays may leave you curled in a ball of anxiety or clutching your wallet worried about how you’re going to pay for the fun.

Holidays need not be so stressful, though. With strategic thought and consideration of your goals and responsibilities, anyone can develop a spending plan that works for them and helps avoid the stress of the holidays (or any time of year for that matter, as life tends to throw curveballs at us without calendar considerations).

Nicholle Overkamp and Sarah Blankenship bring years of personal finance industry experience to PowHERhouse Money Coaching in Amherst. The PowHERhouse team helps ambitious women own their futures and build businesses they love.

Nicholle and Sarah first encourage you to create a spend plan, recording all your expenses, from bank accounts and credit cards, income sources, and all bills, big and small.

Whether you choose to monitor this spend plan quite regularly or only now and then, Sarah explains, you can focus on where everything goes. Immediately, if you see a lot of money regularly going toward something not 40 THEHOMEPUBLICATIONS.COM | Buffalo

benefitting your goals, you can make intentional choices.

Sarah says, it’s like you give every dollar you have a job. If it’s not serving a purpose toward your goals, then it’s not necessary or beneficial, and it can be removed from your spend plan. When you’re intentional with your spending, you pay toward necessities and when you spend on extras, you don’t feel guilty.

PowHERhouse’s philosophy in growing wealth is your mindset and self-worth. “It’s about setting boundaries, having discipline, and knowing you’re worth every dollar you invest in yourself, your future, and your life. If you spend too much on things that don’t serve your future,” Sarah says, “your goals will suffer.”

Sarah’s best piece of advice in personal finance is to ask for help when you need it. She encourages us all to educate ourselves about personal finance, but if you need a hand, reach out to the professionals who know the ins and outs.

BY SUZIE WELLS

HOLIDAY CHEER IN WNY

Goal -Setting Essentials • Check in with yourself – ask yourself what you want to achieve, why you’re getting up each day and going to work. Sarah says, “We often are stuck in the grind, getting to the end of the week, the end of the month, getting to the end of the holidays.

Instead, think ‘What do I want to accomplish today, this week, this year, in ten years?’ With goals in mind, you will be more purposeful and intentional with your money.”

• “I don’t know” can be an answer. Sarah says clients may not quite know what they want to do in the future, but they know they want to be ready to travel or to buy something, so intentionally leaving an I Don’t Know in your spend plan is helpful.

• Sometimes people are afraid of setting goals because they like where they are. Goals don’t have to be huge and aspirational.

Maintaining and/or small goals are important too.

• Dig into your goals. If you want to go on a trip, set money aside intentionally and regularly to achieve them.

HOLIDAY STRESS BUSTERS Sarah jokes that the holidays seem to jump up on people every year, so be sure to block off time to take care of you and your goals.

Set money aside every month because you know you will spend more on food, events, and activities for the holidays.

During the holiday times especially, know that you can’t go everywhere or do everything.

RSVPing no is absolutely okay.

Set boundaries. Nicholle’s mantra is “If it’s not a hell yes, it’s a no.” Consider if an event or expense is in line with your goals and priorities. If it’s not, admit that and decline. It’s really okay to say no. Sarah, a self-described work in progress and yes-woman, says that’s where the stress around the holidays usually comes from, so allow yourself grace and respect your boundaries to minimize the stress.

By shifting your personal finance mindset, you can and will level up your personal and professional goals.

Look for PowHERhouse events in and around Amherst to inspire your personal finance journey. Check out the Money Bitch Mingles, where women network in a fun, open, comfortable environment, discussing financial questions while also making amazing connections with other businesswomen and like-minded people.

For information on PowHERhouse Money Coaching’s online courses to help you ditch debt, buy a home, understand your cash flow, or estate plan, and everything you need to own your financial future, visit: powherhousemoney.com

Buffalo | THEHOMEPUBLICATIONS.COM 41

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TIDINGS of comfort

AND JOY Decorating for the holidays with three local influencers

BY TRISH PINO

As a full-time speech pathologist, mother of two, and interior designer, Kristen has had the opportunity to collaborate with an exciting range of clients. In addition, she recently launched the Maple House Collection, which was created to provide thoughtful, sustainable, collected, functional, and beautiful home décor, ethically made & hand-crafted by the world’s finest artisans.

TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF AND WHY YOU STARTED MAPLE HOUSE BUFFALO

SETTING THE TABLE with KRISTEN BUSCEMI @MapleHouseBuffalo

50 THEHOMEPUBLICATIONS.COM | Buffalo

Maple House Buffalo first took root after our growing family moved into a historic 1902 farmhouse in Buffalo. We began renovating it and I decided to start a professional Instagram account to share our projects. As our home evolved, so too did my affinity for interior design. I became fascinated with the psychology behind functional beautiful design, and I love to share my design projects, tips, and tricks with my social media community of fellow interior design enthusiasts.

FOR THE HOME

HOW CAN I CREATE A BEAUTIFUL, STYLED HOLIDAY DINNER TABLE? When creating your tablescape, start with a centerpiece. It can be as simple or elaborate as you’d like. I always like to ground my table with a floral arrangement as the centerpiece and a runner underneath. Next add candles at various heights. Using taper candles as well as those with seasonal scents creates a warm, welcoming feel. I also love to incorporate a DIY project such as seasonal elements or personalized name cards on napkin rings or at each place setting. Use natural elements such as twine, cinnamon sticks, dried orange slices, or even pinecones to elevate the look and make it feel special. If you have holiday dinnerware, don’t feel like you need to reserve it for Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner. Use it throughout the season to get you into the holiday spirit.

HOW DO YOU NARROW YOUR FOCUS WHEN DECORATING FOR THE HOLIDAYS? First, choose a few colors to work with and stay consistent with your palette throughout your entire home. This creates a cohesive look that feels calm and intentional. I also like to pick a few areas where I create special vignettes. While fully decorated rooms are beautiful, you don’t have to go crazy. Selecting a few key areas such as your dining room table, sideboard, mantle, and entryway to put decorations on can be a great place to start.

WHAT TRENDS ARE YOU EMBRACING THIS HOLIDAY SEASON? While trends are great to follow and use for inspiration, try to choose elements that are true to what you love. This year, I see a resurgence of color as people move beyond neutrals and embrace pops of color to complement the season. I also see a lot more people mixing old and new together. There used to be sort of a stigma that came with thrifting, but now people see the value in giving pieces a second life. It’s not only good for your budget and the environment, but many times these items are much more valuable and well-made compared to what you buy today.

Buffalo | THEHOMEPUBLICATIONS.COM 51

HOW CAN WE CREATE HOLIDAY WARMTH IN OUR HOMES THIS HOLIDAY SEASON? This time of year, I love adding warmth through extra lighting such as candles, twinkle lights, Christmas lights, and even a fire in the fireplace. Texture is another great way to add warmth to a space.

I love using faux fur throws and velvet pillow covers to give a space that cozy vibe. I'm a huge believer that your family heirloom holiday décor pieces and ornaments should be displayed if you love them and they make you happy. Last year I even used an Afghan my greatgrandmother crocheted as a tree skirt and it made me smile every time I looked at that tree.

CREATING HOLIDAY WARMTH with AMBER VALVAN0 @TheValvanoHomestead Amber is a Doctor of Pharmacy who manages a retail pharmacy, helps run a Real Estate Investment business, and is a wife and a mother of three young children.

TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF AND WHY YOU STARTED THE VALVANO HOMESTEAD? For as long as I can remember, my dream was to buy a piece of land and build a white farmhouse on it to raise my family in. In 2018, we bought 13 acres of property, and I connected with a group of women who were all building similar house plans at the time, and our community developed.

We shared design and new build ideas and truly become friends. During this time, I discovered my love for interior design, DIY, and became passionate about helping others turn their houses into homes.

52 THEHOMEPUBLICATIONS.COM | Buffalo

WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE STYLING TIPS FOR THE HOLIDAYS? If you have children, don't be afraid to add kid-friendly pieces in. We have a train around our tree, and I love to leave our favorite Christmas story book out on our ottoman tray throughout the holiday season.

It makes for a beautiful coffee table book, but is also something that my kids can grab and read at any time. Adding framed art or family pictures from Christmases past is great for a coffee table or kitchen countertop. I also always add greenery. Faux or real garland, cedar or pine stems and picks are a great way to add color, texture, and warmth to your space.

WHAT TRENDS ARE YOU EMBRACING THIS HOLIDAY SEASON? I'm not really one to follow the trends, because I think the only person's opinion about your home that matters is your own. However, I do think we will continue to see neutral décor and natural elements. Pinecones, burlap, dried oranges, soft creams, and earthy tones are all calming and peaceful, which is what many are looking for during the holidays.

I also think we are going to see more vintage and family inspiration shine through – think the vintage glass ornaments/bulbs, painted ceramic lit trees, heirloom Santas, and traditional greens, reds, silvers, and golds. These give nostalgic feelings for many, as well as memories of Christmases past. Lastly, metallics are certainly here to stay! They are elegant and beautiful and give a modern or a traditional feel. When decorating for the holidays this year, be sure you go with what you truly love. It does not need to be trendy to be beautiful!

Garla great wandys toareadad texture to a space.

Add and vinvetalgevet lobookwsing bel s for extra touchan!

“I love so much about this time of year! I love a

cozy afternoon at home when you have something

delicious cooking for dinner, a candle burning, and

the fire going. My most favorite thing about this

time of year, though, is seeing the season through

Faux florals, mini trees, and candles styled on a decorative tray or cutting board are a great way to decorate a kitchen island for the holidays. Add cedar wreaths and ribbon to kitchen chairs for an extra winter touch.

my children's eyes.” – Amber

Using a variety of lighting (candle, twinkle lights, tree lights, firelight) helps bring warmth to your living room.

Create a feeling of home with cherished family heirlooms, books, and photos when styling an ottoman tray or sofa table.

Adding traditional Christmas red and green bedding to a neutral bedroom can be a fun way to make it feel warm and inviting.

Buffalo | THEHOMEPUBLICATIONS.COM 53

FOR THE HOME

Add garland around your mirrors.

Wooden .ac. .cents pair perfectly with the greenery.

54 THEHOMEPUBLICATIONS.COM | Buffalo

My hope is that you find ways and feel inspired to create a space you love during this holiday season.” – Yeri

STYLING YOUR SPACE with YERI CASTILLO @GrowingWith.in As a sonographer by day, Yeri spends her time caring for patients, but her true love is being home with family, entertaining her little ones, and keeping busy rearranging, organizing, and working on home projects.

TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF AND WHY YOU STARTED GROWINGWITH.IN My passion for home design began many years ago when I would rearrange my childhood bedroom every six months, but I didn’t fully put it into use until purchasing our first home two years ago. That is when @growingwith.in came to life!

I began to share our DIYs, my thrifted finds, and how I styled different spaces in our home!

WHAT ARE SOME FAVORITE TIPS WHEN DECORATING FOR THE HOLIDAYS? Focus on one room at a time, whether it’s the space you first see when you walk in your home or the space you spend the most time in. In my case, that’s our dining room. Start by figuring out what color palette you want to work with. Then, think of what reminds you of the holidays and incorporate those. Some examples I include in my dining room centerpiece are bells, greenery, candles, and trees. Remember you don’t have to go out and spend a lot. Try working with pieces you already have or even experiment with thrifting items like candle holders, which I like to include in my tablescape. Have fun and make magic!

WHAT TRENDS ARE YOU EMBRACING THIS HOLIDAY SEASON? Earthy neutral and organic. That’s what comes to mind when I think about what is trending this holiday season. It’s about bringing nature indoors.

WHERE DO YOU FIND INSPIRATION? Most of my inspiration comes from secondhand pieces. I love to find ways to bring them back to life.

I think of how I can make them work in my home and build styling from there.

Buffalo | THEHOMEPUBLICATIONS.COM 55

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FOR THE HOME

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Time tested since 1945

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The experts at Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery are here to help create a home that’s as extraordinary as you are.

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YOUR LOCAL SHOWROOM: BUFFALO 6326 Transit Road (716) 681-5035

©2021 Ferguson Enterprises LLC 1121 3504765

BRING YOUR VISION TO US

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happy holidays FROM OUR FAMILY TO YOURS! As Buffalo’s premier home improvement, general contractor, and home remodeling experts, Cortese Construction Services has been satisfying Buffalo and Western New York’s needs for kitchen design, bathroom design & sunroom additions since 1951.

- The Cortese Family

YEAR END BLOWOUT EVENT UP TO

25% OFF

SUNROOMS HURRY! THIS OFFER IS ONLY VALID FOR THE FIRST 10 CUSTOMERS TO SIGN U UP!

We will always match and beat competitors price on sunrooms!

WRITTEN ESTIMATE REQUIRED. New SUNROOM contracts only. Not valid on prior saless orr combined with other offers. Must be presented at or prior ior to time of sale. Price match is subject to Cortese discretion.

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ENHANCE YOUR

kitchen & bath Kitchen | Bath | Additions | Sunrooms Awnings | Deck and Patio Covers Screen Rooms | Covered Porches Small Projects | Railings | Decks & More Cook with us! Italian chef, Jerry Clementi from Cipollina’s Restaurant provides a uniquely curated experience in our showroom.

View our cooking class schedule & reserve your spot - COMEHOMETOCORTESE.MYSHOPIFY.COM

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OVER 25 Years’ Experience WE FINANCE! 15-24 months same as cash

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