November 28, 2025 by Ladue News

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OF EXCELLENCE IN ST . LOUIS REAL ES TAT E

Don’t Get Ripped Off

With a construction background, Joelle navigates inspections with ease, spotting issues early and guiding clients to smart decisions. She knows how to negotiate and avoid costly surprises, and she’s always honest if a home isn’t the right fit. “I know how to guide you in the right direction.”

Your Home, Her Network

Friends in High Places

Brokerage leadership is actively shaping the future of St. Louis real estate, keeping Joelle ahead of industry changes. Her broker’s deep involvement at the highest levels ensures she has the latest insights and training—long before shifts take effect.

Your Real Estate Concierge

Fifteen years of industry connections also make Joelle your go-to resource long after the deal is done. With a well-vetted network of contractors, she makes sure her clients get nothing but the best for anything they need, from home repairs to full renovations. Joelle stays handson, guiding you every step of the way so you don’t have to figure it out alone.

Having mortgage, insurance, and title services all under one roof allows her to streamline the homebuying process, cutting down on stress and saving clients valuable time. “It makes things so much smoother.”

The Yin to Her Yang

Joelle and her partner Kathy’s team came together naturally from years of collaboration and a deep understanding of how each other works. Kathy is a detail oriented problem solver who complements Joelle’s steady and focused approach. “We’re yin and yang.”

Joelle Hibbard, Real Estate Agent

MISSOURI’S MOST TRUSTED NAME IN REAL ESTATE NOW PROUDLY SERVES ST. LOUIS.

CURIOUS WHAT YOUR HOME IS WORTH? CHECK HERE:

CEDAR FORD RANCH

1 ½± OF UPPER MERAMEC RIVER FRONTAGE

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PUBLISHER

Ian Caso

EDITORIAL

e DITor -IN-CHI e F

Amanda Dahl > adahl@laduenews.com

S e NI or e DITor

Emily Standlee > estandlee@laduenews.com

Co NT r I b UTING W r IT er S

Bethany Christo, Drew Gieseke, Lauren Leady, Carrson McDaniel, Connie Mitchell, Brittany Nay, Pat Raven, Nancy Robinson, Andrea Smith, Mabel Suen

SALES

v IC e P re SID e NT o F SAL e S

Kevin Hart > khart@stlpostmedia.com

S e NI or me DIA ST r AT e GIST

Katie Ray > kray@laduenews.com

me DIA ST r AT e GIST

Michelle Brown > mbrown@laduenews.com

SP e CIAL P ro J e CTS m ANAG er

Maggie Peters > mpeters@laduenews.com

CLASSIFI e D ACCo UNT m ANAG er

Lisa Taylor > ltaylor@lee.net

ART

A rT DI re CTor

Laura De Vlieger > ldevlieger@laduenews.com

Co NT r I b UTING PH oTo G r APH er S

James Anderson, Christina Kling-Garrett

This issue, we’re examining the relationships that elevate industries and influence our daily lives.

Take note: We’re entering a new era of fashion. Crosssectorial collaborations are engaging consumers in inventive ways, as our contributor Andrea Smith digs into on Page 46. Designers and stylists are finding new avenues that allow them to create hearty experiences for audiences craving more. Our Window Shopper column on Page 24 further explores this novel approach, with a look at how Sanctioned Sneaker Collective has elevated St. Louis’ streetwear scene through a community culture.

Just as fashion is evolving, so too is the American approach to parenting. With a deeper understanding than ever before of the brain and how it works, neuroscience is now informing us on what happens to a child’s nervous system during a meltdown and the most effective ways caregivers can intervene. Contributor Connie Mitchell delves into this subject on Page 14 with a local professor of behavioral science, who offers in-the-moment advice for parents to practice when their child “misbehaves.”

We show gratitude this season – a ritual to aspire to include in your everyday. As this edition shows, relationship-building is the pumping heart of society. Take a moment to reflect on the relationships you nurture, and express your appreciation for those who have shown you the same generosity of spirit.

Thanks for reading Ladue News.

Amanda Dahl, editor-in-chief

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When it comes to interiors, one color doesn’t mean one note. Three local designers weigh in on monochromatic interiors and how color-drenching your living spaces can add dynamic interest to a home. Read more at laduenews.com.

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COMMUNITY FIRST: A VISION FOR A JEWISH ST. LOUISResilient

By Maggie Peters

Photos courtesy of the Jewish Federation of St. Louis

When Danny Cohn moved to St. Louis this past spring to become President & CEO of the Jewish Federation of St. Louis, he was immediately struck by the community’s warmth. He, his husband Andrew, and their daughter Nora, were welcomed with open arms.

“From day one, people have been warm, welcoming, and deeply engaged,” Cohn says. “In my first 100 days, volunteers hosted me at more than two dozen small gatherings so I could listen and learn. That spirit of generosity is uniquely St. Louis.”

Cohn’s path to Jewish communal leadership reflects both creativity and conviction. Raised in Omaha, he grew up immersed in Jewish life—serving as president of BBYO’s AZA#1 and Regional President of the organization. He was also recognized as an emerging young leader and has been serving the Federation in a volunteer capacity since the age of 16. Cohn was also a talented opera baritone; he even served as a volunteer cantor for Kol Nidre services. His early career in communications and marketing included projects for Starbucks, Allstate, and other high-profile brands, but after his daughter

was born, he felt a pull toward work that aligned with his values. He entered Jewish communal leadership, ultimately serving as CEO of the Birmingham Jewish Federation and Foundation before coming to St. Louis.

“Every community has its own story,” he says. “Here, our Jewish history is proud and deeply rooted. My role is to honor that legacy while helping build a vibrant, inclusive future.”

A central part of that future is safety. Through the Federation’s Community Security Initiative (CSI)—a national model—the team oversees partnerships with 66 Jewish agencies and more than 35 law enforcement entities across the region. Rising antisemitism has driven security costs to more than $1.5 million annually, with the Federation projected to exceed its budget by over $500,000 in 2025.

“Security isn’t just a budget line—it’s what allows Jewish life to thrive openly and confidently,” Cohn explains. “Our responsibility is to make sure every person who walks into a Jewish space feels safe and supported.”

There is no better time to be true to St. Louis’ spirit of giving back and to help support the Federation and its mission. Thanks to a committed group of families in the St. Louis community, the Federation has a special matching opportunity for its 2025 Annual Campaign: Every new or increased gift will be matched dollar-for-dollar, up to $180,000. That means donors can double their support for everything from community security to Jewish education to the social safety net for those who need it most.

“This is the moment to act,” Cohn says. “When you give, you’re strengthening Jewish life today and safeguarding our future for the next generation. Every dollar—especially when matched—makes a real difference.”

Despite the challenges facing the Jewish world, Cohn maintains optimism grounded in people and relationships.

“It can feel like it’s a hard time to live proudly Jewish, with antisemitism at all-time high, and that’s why we need the community’s support, not just in dollars but relationships,” he says. “I look forward to continuing to build these important bonds one at a time and am always open for a great discussion over a cup of coffee.”

Jewish Federation of St. Louis, 12 Millstone Campus Drive, St. Louis, 314-432-0020, jfedstl.org

Every dollar, especially when matched, helps protect Jewish life, strengthen our Jewish agencies, and ensure that future generations inherit a vibrant, thriving community.

– DANNY COHN

Jackie Levy, Executive Director & CEO of WashU Hillel with Danny at Hillel

Eliad Eliyahu Ben Shushan, Director of Israel & Global Impact at the Federation, visiting from Israel to meet Danny

Todd Siwak, Federation’s Board Chair with Danny at a Federation event

Danny touring the JFS Harvey Kornblum Food Pantry, a partner agency

Preserving Tower Grove Park

By Carrson McDaniel

Tower Grove Park regulars may start to notice their surroundings looking different. That’s because a two-part major renovation, expected to be completed next year, is currently underway at the historic 289-acre landmark, which welcomes more than 1 million visitors each year.

Part one of the renovation reimagines the Director’s Croquet Garden as a gathering space for special events such as weddings and educational programs. The Event Support Building is undergoing a transformation to include storage space, an expanded catering kitchen, a concession stand, public restrooms, and additional amenities.

Bill Reininger, executive director of Tower Grove Park, says these have been some of the most requested upgrades from the public.

“Folks are really excited about it,” he says. “We hold a lot of events at The Music Stand and different events around that area. There are currently no public restrooms – we are reliant on Porta-Potties, so folks are really happy to have a permanent bathroom going in.” Reininger expects the additions to be completed by July 2026.

The second part of the renovation includes the preservation of four Victorian pavilions: Cypress South, Humboldt South, Lily Pond, and Old Carriage. “They’re getting either new or repaired roofs, any [deteriorating] wood is getting replaced, new paint, accessible pathways,” Reininger says. “They’ll be in great shape once they’re done.”

He adds that the pavilion restorations will be completed in April 2026 – in time for picnic season. The renovations will have minimal impact on current park visitors, Reininger assures.

“There is some parking being taken up by the construction site, as well as some of the pedestrians have had to reroute a little bit,” he says. “They can still get in front of the Piper Palm House as they loop around the park. They just have to take a little bit of a detour.”

Both projects were made possible by Tower Grove Park’s Common Ground campaign. The pavilion restoration project also received a $500,000 Save America’s Treasures grant from the National Park Service. Additional philanthropic support for the pavilion restoration includes a $300,000 pledge from the Robert J. Trulaske Jr. Family Foundation, $250,000 from the Berges Family Foundation, and $25,000 from the Gateway Foundation.

Reininger believes these improvements help ensure the preservation of Tower Grove Park’s legacy as a public park, arboretum, and National Historic Landmark for generations to come.

“These projects are really important to keep [the pavilions] safe and operational and around for the next 150 years,” he says, adding the new facility also furthers this goal. “[The renovations will help] to elevate the experience of our patrons.”

Tower Grove Park, 4257 Northeast Drive, St. Louis, towergrovepark.org

> Photos courtesy of Tower Grove Park; rendering courtesy of Trivers

Pictured left to right: Mike Konzen, campaign chair; Bill Reininger, executive director of Tower Grove Park; Mayor Cara Spencer; Bob Holmes, Tower Grove Park Board of Commissioners president; Alderwoman Daniela Velazquez; and David Kemper of the William T. Kemper Foundation

Bill Reininger

Mitigating A CHILD’S MELTDOWN

By Connie Mitchell > Photos supplied

Today’s parents might remember the standard model for discipline when they were kids: Good behavior is rewarded, and bad behavior is punished. It made sense based on the work of the well-known behavioral psychologist B.F. Skinner whose 1930s experiments with rats led to the development of operant conditioning, a theory explaining how behavior is shaped by consequences. We now know much more about humans’ cognitive capabilities. Using modern understanding of the nervous system, parents may discover more effective ways to help children learn to manage their behaviors.

Nancy Weaver, a professor of behavioral

science at Saint Louis University (nancy.weaver@ slu.edu), suggests a different tactic. “Punishing a child in distress is not how the child learns,” she says. “As I got deeper into neurobiology and child development, I started understanding kids’ stress responses.”

Weaver founded Support Over Silence, LLC, where she helps caregivers understand and learn neuroscience-based parenting techniques. Her programming also benefits organizations and community members through bystander training to recognize when and how to support caregivers and children during a challenging moment in public.

Children who are “misbehaving” are

usually experiencing a state of nervous system dysregulation, Weaver says. They become unable to manage their reaction to something in their environment. The trigger could be as small as frustration over learning to tie shoes or not getting a toy the child wants right now. “Their brain is still developing, so they’re more likely to react from a fight-or-flight state rather than responding with reasoned thinking,” she says.

A child in the throes of this type of nervous system-driven response is not capable of learning, Weaver says, so punishments tend to ramp up the response. “Only after they can calm down and start using their brain’s prefrontal cortex can they learn,” she notes, adding that the key to circumventing a tantrum is for the parent to respond from a place of their own regulation.

“The first thing we have to do is to stay calm. So as parents, we need to practice taking a pause and a couple deep breaths and putting our own nervous system into a more regulated state,” Weaver says. “Then we can attune to what our kid might need in that moment.”

Demonstrating calming techniques and using them when the child is having a tantrum or acting out of control helps the child learn how to regulate their own nervous system, giving them a chance to co-regulate with a tranquil adult. When the child settles down, parents can help the child explore what happened with curiosity and talk about ways to do things differently when similar circumstances come up again.

Support Over Silence, supportoversilence.com

Scan the QR code to read what three steps caregivers can take to stop a meltdown.

BRASSTop

By Nancy Robinson > Photos supplied

A judicious use of brass accents elevates streamlined design to new heights.

The Highland House Benson etagere was created with designer details, including a table-height shelf and brass back to accommodate a lamp, barware, or a piece of art. This series, which features the etagere as well as a side table and coffee table, was inspired by vintage Maison Jansen and Josef Frank designs. (bdaviscompany.com)

The Opal table lamp, a taskoriented accent, shines through premium quality finishes. It stands on a square base and rises to a curved metal shade, where warm light filters through an alabaster diffuser. This tasteful light proves perfect for desks and other functional placements. (flowdecor.com)

Fairﬁeld Chair’s Jasper model demonstrates a subtle blend of modern design and comfort, ﬂoating freely on a round brass base with a convenient swivel mechanism. (shubertdesign.com)

The Great Holiday

Tree Debate

By Pat Raven, Ph.D., with Julie Hess > Photos supplied

What kind of holiday tree do you prefer? Fresh cut, live, artificial…It is a very personal decision. We stopped using full-sized fresh cut trees years ago. With toddlers and kittens in the house, the risk of a heavily decorated one being toppled was great, shiny ornaments and all. As an alternative, I brought in a patio table, with a pierced metal top, and zip-tied the Christmas tree stand securely to it. Using a much smaller tree (about four feet) in the tabletop holder, we achieved a total height of seven feet or more. From across the room, it gives the same impact as a taller tree but is much safer for our circumstances. This method has allowed me to continue enjoying fresh trees, both for the sentiment and the fragrance. With a double skirting, one on the table covering the holder and one underneath on the floor, it also gave us a nook in which to put packages out of the flow of traffic. This solution is particularly good for smaller homes or condos.

As for using live balled-and-burlapped trees, there is mixed success. Spruce and ﬁr are suitable choices for our region. If you opt for a nursery tree, dig the appropriate planting hole before the ground freezes. Trees that have been kept indoors for more than a week often do not survive after transplanting. If you want to use a live tree, it is best to keep it outdoors on your porch or patio and bring it in very close to Christmas. Once inside, the tree needs to be misted every day with a spray bottle of water and never allowed to dry out. Try not to keep live trees

in the house for more than a week and plant immediately upon removal.

Good arguments for using artificial trees include fire retardance and reusability. While disposal does not happen every year, these trees are not recyclable. They also require yearlong storage space. The biggest drawback is that the unmistakable evergreen fragrance is missing and cannot be made up for by an air freshener. If you use an artificial tree, consider using live garland for your mantelpiece, banister, or table. Just one fresh wreath indoors can bring that lovely fragrance into your living room, or add aromatic greens from your garden to your table décor.

Staying safe this season

Keeping your family safe during the holiday season is paramount. Any dry tree can turn into a deadly torch in a moment. Make sure everyone knows where to find the fire extinguishers in your home. To review more tips about holiday fire safety from the Missouri Department of Public Safety, go to dfs.dps.mo.gov/safetytips/holiday.php. Have a safe and happy holiday season!

Festive

By Andrea Smith

Wreaths come in various styles and sizes, with natural materials providing some festive fragrance and artificial materials allowing year-after-year use. Although not exclusive to the holidays, ‘tis the season for abundant availability in the St. Louis area. Below are a few local florists and shops with classic and creative options.

BUDS FLORAL AND EVENT DESIGN

BUDS boutique offers traditional and nontraditional wreaths, plus custom orders with a 2- to 3-day turnaround. Evergreen or woven birch provide a beautiful base for a holiday wreath, with red poinsettias and gold dahlias bringing comfort and joy. Given that BUDS is a floral shop, expect floral-heavy wreaths and textural variety from glitter, branches, and berries.

522 S. Hanley Road, Clayton, 314-371-4646, budsstl.com

CITY HOUSE COUNTRY MOUSE

The Designer’s Choice wreath is a whimsical creation featuring dried florals wrapped into a base of grapevine. Other natural foliage might include berries, pods, or succulents, depending on availability. Wreaths range in size from about 14 to 24 inches. Reach out to inquire about a custom arrangement.

2105 Marconi Ave., St. Louis, 314-502-9555, cityhousecountrymouse.com

FORTH AND HOME

Forth and Home stocks a traditional faux cedar wreath but the reason to shop here is to find something out of the ordinary. The 18-inch, cotton-blend yarn wreath offers a soft touch that’s still festive with its red bow, red-and-green ribbons, and metal bells. Also consider the bottlebrush wreath for an alternative decor choice.

8137 Big Bend Blvd., Webster Groves, 314-266-8260, forthandhome.com

Finish

RUSTED CHANDELIER

Find a traditional faux wreath that mimics pine, spruce, cedar, or even pheasant feathers at this home goods and gift shop in Kirkwood. While not real plants, evergreen wreaths from Rusted Chandelier are made to last and look fresh year after year. Most wreaths are 24 inches but a 12-inch option is also available, ideal for candle rings or table decor.

11037 Manchester Road, St. Louis, 314-858-1039, rustedchandelier.com

SUGAR CREEK GARDENS

For a classic, fresh-cut evergreen, visit this garden center in Kirkwood for fir, pine, and juniper wreaths. Some options include incense cedar for added color variety and aroma, and pine cones and berries add a festive finish. Choose between 24 to 30 inches, and follow the care tips provided online for longer lasting greens.

1011 N. Woodlawn Ave., St. Louis, 314-965-3070, sugarcreekgardens.com

WILDFLOWERS

Wreaths from this studio are full of personality. “Each Wildflowers wreath is a lasting work of art, thoughtfully crafted from dried botanicals, fresh eucalyptus, and seasonal textures,” the website describes. A year-round option is the Clementine Wreath on a gold ring, varying in floral colors and finished with satin ribbon. Consider also an embellished evergreen wreath, or inquire for specific color palettes and dried materials. Different sizes and half-moon bases are available.

2754 Lafayette Ave. (rear entry), St. Louis, 314-772-9900, wildflowersstl.com

Photo courtesy of Rusted Chandelier

Photo courtesy of Forth and Home

TOP TEAMS IN REAL ESTATE

Bailey Properties

314-283-4886 (Drennan Bailey), 314-249-6373 (Taylor Bailey), buymoland.com

What separates bailey Properties from its competition? being a small independent boutique father and son brokerage specializing in farm and land sales. bailey Properties has been in business for over 45 years, offering the most unique listings for clients wanting to get away from major companies and find someone with a personal touch.

The Benes Group Coldwell Banker Realty – Gundaker 314-707-7761 (Benes), 314-452-1885 (Johnlikes), marybeth.benes@cbgundaker.com, teddy.johnlikes@cbgundaker.com

For sellers and buyers seeking the most knowledgeable, experienced and professional agents in the metro area, their search often ends with the benes Group. mary beth benes & Teddy J. Johnlikes serve St. Louis County, St. Charles County, the central corridor and more. ranked No. 1 Small real estate Team in missouri by realTrends 2024.

The Butler-Felsher Group

Gladys Manion Real Estate

314-630-3165 (Carol Butler), 314-303-3232 (Juli-Ann Felsher), butlerfelsher.com

With Carol butler’s lifelong St. Louis expertise and Juli-Ann Felsher’s global relocation experience, The butlerFelsher Group delivers a uniquely wellrounded approach. Their partnership is defined by personal service, smart marketing, and steadfast advocacy, ensuring every client feels supported, understood, and expertly represented.

By Maggie Peters

Kim Carney Coldwell Banker Premier 314-422-7449, kimcarneyluxury.com

Kim Carney, and her support team, has consistently been named as one of the top luxury real estate agents in St. Louis. Her extensive experience, savvy negotiation skills and high-end marketing strategies are a winning combination that produces results.

Lizzy Dooley Real Estate Team Compass Realty Group 314-680-1426, lizzydooley.com, lizzy.dooley@compass.com

Go-getter energy meets decades of expertise. born and raised in St. Louis, Lizzy Dooley and her dedicated team combine deep neighborhood insight with nearly two decades of experience and $800 million-plus in sales, delivering premier service, personalized guidance, and exceptional outcomes for every client.

Kathy Karasick and Joelle Hibbard

ReeceNichols Real Estate 314-691-0683 (Karasick), 314-724-2984 (Hibbard), 314-997-7600 (office), joelleandkathyhomes.reecenichols.com

With 25 years of combined experience and strong industry connections, Kathy Karasick and Joelle Hibbard have built a loyal base of clients. Karasick is a natural go-getter and problem solver, while Joelle is a steady presence with a sharp construction-trained eye for inspections. Together, they ensure every client feels supported through every step of the process.

The McClelland Team

314-922-7767 (Matt McClelland), 314-307-4589 (Ginger Brinker), 636-667-1996 (Sarah Sullentrup), 636-667-3053 (Rachelle Elbert), themcclellandteam.com

The mcClelland Team is ranked 7th overall in the St. Louis region by re/mAX International.This team of well-versed group of real estate professionals with extensive experience are known for their creative marketing. They specialize in the Franklin, Gasconade and Warren County areas. visit them at their new location next to Jimmy John’s in Washington, mo.

Sabrina Robb Partners Compass Realty Group 314-283-7590, robbpartners.com, sabrina.robb@compass.com

Sabrina robb, a leading St. Louis luxury real estate expert since 2003, delivers exceptional results through market expertise and a client-focused approach. As head of Sabrina robb Partners team, she has sold over $1.25 billion in distinctive homes with unmatched service and innovative marketing.

Rossini Real Estate Group

Janet McAfee Real Estate 314-303-2137, arossini@janetmcafee.com

The rossini real estate Group—Allie rossini, Lauren Gillentine, and Donna Wellmon—are top producers with Janet mcAfee real estate. Known for integrity, professionalism, and exceptional service, they guide clients seamlessly through buying and selling. With 38-plus years of experience and $432 million in sales, their referralbased business exceeds expectations.

Megan Rowe & Co.

Compass Realty Group 314-378-4077, meganroweco.com, megan.rowe@compass.com

Trusted to represent St. Louis’ finest properties, megan rowe is a premier real estate advisor with over $1.4 billion in lifetime sales and a lifelong foundation in the industry. Together with her mother, Joan Schnoebelen, megan rowe & Co. represents over nine decades of experience, guiding clients through life’s meaningful transitions with care, discernment, and authenticity.

The Ryan Tradition

Coldwell Banker Realty – Gundaker 314-941-0572 (Ryan), 314-471-2374 (Floyd), theryantradition.com

For nearly six decades, The ryan Tradition – founded by Anne ryan – has defined excellence in luxury real estate. With a legacy of trust and a reputation for unmatched service and expertise, this distinguished team has achieved over $2.4 billion in sales since 1998, setting the benchmark for premier property transactions.

Show & Sell STL

Compass Realty Group 314-602-7495, showandsellstl.com, lindseyjacobs@compass.com

Lindsey Jacobs and Susie Johnson’s Show & Sell STL has sold nearly $1 billion in St. Louis. born into the business, Lindsey leads the team with expertise, polish, and personalized service, guiding every client—buyer, seller, or investor—through seamless transactions with confidence, care, and exceptional results.

TOP TEAMS IN REAL ESTATE

Alex Thornhill and Heather Johnson

Janet McAfee Real Estate 314-239-4993 (Thornhill), 314-324-8118 (Johnson), alex@janetmcafee.com, heather@janetmcafee.com

Alex Thornhill and Heather Johnson bring a distinctly elevated perspective to real estate, blending market intelligence, unwavering integrity, and the utmost discretion. Their top-producing success reflects a combination of strategy and grace; delivering exceptional service across every price point with the polish of true professionals.

John Zarky and Kevin Hurley

Janet McAfee Real Estate 314-920-1846 (Zarky), 314-560-4977 (Hurley), jzarky@janetmcafee.com, khurley@janetmcafee.com

Janet McAfee Top Agents, John Zarky and Kevin Hurley use teamwork, enthusiasm, and dedication to represent the best of St. Louis’s Central Corridor buyers and sellers. Boasting decades of experience in the real estate industry and deep roots in St. Louis, the team excels in navigating the complicated terrain of buying and selling.

Zarky | Hurley

Consistently recognized as Janet McAfee Top Agents

Found: The Midwest’s Largest Sneaker Collection

Sanctioned Sneaker Collective is about more than selling shoes. It’s an experience.

Owner Chase Callahan, who launched the St. Louis-based shoe company in 2020 with former business partner Gerad Ewing, says Sanctioned is creating a community culture, blending fashion, music, and artistic expression, while boasting local to international designer labels and an active stock of 3,000 pairs of sneakers – the vastest in the Midwest.

With a goal of uniting the passionate sneakerhead community under one roof, Sanctioned first opened in Chesterfield Mall, then moved to its current digs at City Foundry STL in St. Louis’ Midtown neighborhood. “We wanted to build a store that people could hang out at all day and learn about shoes, the

culture…and just have fun,” Callahan says.

Located inside the historic building that once housed a motor and generator manufacturer, customers often tell Callahan the store feels like stepping into a modern museum, with graffiti and sculptures by local artists surrounding an impressive retail collection that runs the gamut of coveted vintage sneakers to today’s hottest kicks. “We purchase older Nike basketball shoes to rare, one-of-one sample Air Maxes to overseas exclusives,” he expands, adding the store’s stock of instant-sellouts to rare classics also includes limited-edition selections from Jordan, Nike, Adidas Yeezy, ASICS, and New Balance.

Among Sanctioned’s bestsellers is the iconic Jordan 4, released in new colorways this year – Rare Air, Cave Stone, Brick by Brick, Undefeated, and more. “This winter we will see

another iconic silhouette get a new colorway: the Jordan 11,” Callahan details. “We will, as we do with every release, have a full run available for people who might miss out on it [over the] holidays.”

Beyond shoes, the shop carries more than 1,000 pieces of clothing that includes items from St. Louis designers. Additionally, find preowned and new modern and hype streetwear from bestselling brands such as Nike, Lululemon, Adidas, and Tommy Hilfiger. “We have thrifted pieces from early 2000s to more modern pieces that come out weekly,” Callahan says, adding shoes and clothing range from $20 to $10,000.

Along with a staff dedicated to building relationships with customers, Callahan says he wants to recreate “one of the coolest experiences as a kid… going into a sneaker store for [the] first time” for St. Louis’ youth.

In-store entertainment enhances the retailer’s vibe and shopping experience, with seating areas, a booth for live DJs on Saturdays, game nights on the last Friday of the month as well as events including rap battles, concerts, comedy shows, and VIP parties.

Callahan aspires for Sanctioned to be known as the pinnacle of St. Louis sneakers and streetwear, noting: “We want you to come in and have fun and not be able to compare the experience to any other sneaker store.”

Sanctioned Sneaker Collective, 3725 Foundry Way, Suite 125, St. Louis, 314-669-4440, sanctionedsc.com

By Brittany Nay > Photos courtesy of Sanctioned Sneaker Collective

Nominations are now being accepted

For the past 71 years, Women of Achievement has recognized and honored women of diverse cultures, roles and accomplishments who have demonstrated commitment to the betterment of the St. Louis region through signi cant, uncompensated volunteer contributions. Please nominate an outstanding volunteer for the St. Louis Women of Achievement Award.

A committee of community leaders will choose 10 honorees to be recognized at the 2026 Women of Achievement Award Luncheon on Tuesday, May 12, 2026 at the Ritz-Carlton, St. Louis.

PRESENTING SPONSORS

Nomination forms and criteria are available now at woastl.org/nominate Nomination deadline is Sunday, January 11, 2026. For questions call 314-896-4962.

Photo by Diane Anderson Photography

Left to right: WOA President Cassie Strom, WOA Award Luncheon Chair Bess Wilfong, WOA Award Luncheon Vice Chair Eleanor Higgins and WOA Vice President Cynthia R. Bennett, Ph. D.

GIVING FOR GOOD

Ditto Family Resale dittostl.org

At Ditto Family resale, generosity is always in season, but it shines especially bright during the holidays. Founded in 2012 through a partnership of eight local Christian schools, this nonprofit resale store transforms quality secondhand goods into scholarships and educational grants that benefit students throughout the St. Louis area. To date, Ditto has contributed over $3.5 million to its partner schools and continues to expand its impact through the Ditto education Grant (DeG) Program, which supports educational initiatives at other local schools. every purchase and donation helps Ditto spread the spirit of giving not just at Christmas, but throughout the entire year.

EverTrue Mason Pointe evertrueliving.org

everTrue mason Pointe is deeply grateful for the compassionate and energetic high school students who choose to spend their service hours with residents throughout the year. volunteers from Westminster Christian Academy, DeSmet High School, villa Duchesne, and St. Louis University High School (SLUH) bring joy, connection, and youthful spirit to everTrue’s community. Whether sharing stories, playing games, or simply offering a listening ear, these students make a meaningful impact and their dedication to service reflects the heart of Giving for Good. everTrue is proud to partner with such outstanding young individuals who embody kindness and community.

By Maggie Peters

Great Rivers Greenway greenwaygoods.com

Support local this holiday season with Greenway Goods. Designed and created by St. Louis artists and makers, they not only make great gifts but also give back to the greenways. From teas featuring local plants found along the greenways to handmade leather goods to hand-poured candles in reusable vessels, Greenway Goods has something for everyone on your gift list. Available online, at City Foundry, both reI locations and the missouri History museum.

Independence Center independencecenter.org

The holidays can be a difficult time for many, especially for those managing mental illness, grief or loneliness. With added financial and social pressures, the season can feel overwhelming. At Independence Center, members find community, purpose and hope through programs that provide support all year long, helping make the holidays—and every day—a little brighter.

The Salvation Army stlsalvationarmy.org

The Salvation Army provides critical support and social services to the Greater St. Louis community year-round. especially at Christmastime, these gifts to the organization’s iconic red kettles fund feeding and housing programs for our most marginalized neighbors. The Salvation Army also provides Christmas gifts to over 6,500 children in need.

Shubert Design Furniture proudly supports the Gary Sinise Foundation’s r.I.S.e program through the Jim & Linda Shubert Foundation, donating interior design services and furniture for custom smart homes built for wounded heroes.

Jim Shubert, Treasurer and board member of the Foundation, helps guide its mission and long-term impact. recently, the Foundation celebrated its 100th home delivery and, in missouri, the partnership has contributed to nine homes and millions of dollars in support. every purchase at Shubert Design Furniture helps restore independence for injured veterans and first responders.

Shubert Design Furniture shubertdesign.com

of SecretsSOULARD

St. Louis’ oldest neighborhood continues to pique historical curiosities. So when Soulard Restoration Group invited Ladue News on its inaugural “Spirits of Soulard” tour, we couldn’t resist. Here’s what we discovered along the 2-hour exploration.

We began at Antagonist Café, an Art Deco time capsule with an intriguing history. Located at 2727 S. 12th St., the building was constructed in 1937 and originally served as a police station. Its lore stretches further back, however.

“We found a sign [that reads]: ‘Two old beer cellars uncovered by steam shovels during construction lie under the station,’” Jim Lettau told tourgoers. He co-owns the café with business partners Laura Leister and Ameet Rawal.

“All the square footage you see above is also below, and there’s a shooting range down there.” The underground portion is also a certified nuclear bomb shelter.

The Antagonist building was designed by the same architect behind Soulard Farmers Market, the oldest public market in St. Louis and possibly west of the Mississippi. Around 1841, Julia Cerré Soulard donated the land to the city with the provision that it must always function as a market.

Architecture buff and restoration group member Philip Hanley then led us down streets and around corners, pointing out notable street names and spaces along the way. “Most of the architecture here in Soulard is a combination of Federal, Italianate, Second Empire, Queen Anne, and Romanesque, which I think is appropriate,” Hanley noted. “Soulard was a melting pot of different cultures, and the architecture reflects that.”

We also heard from Mardi Gras Foundation treasurer and restoration group member Jay Dinkelman, who met us on what he called “the most haunted block in Soulard,” at 2345 S. 13th St. “In 1850, a woman named

Joanna Roberts came to St. Louis and purchased this whole square block, [building] a 25-room mansion on the site,” Dinkelman said. Flanked by historic homes on each side is a now-empty plot of land where the mansion once stood. The only remaining evidence is a sealed-off, vine-covered staircase leading up a small hill. While Roberts and her son Elbert lived in the home through the Civil War, it was leased by the group of Episcopalians and physicians who originally founded St. Luke’s Hospital. Scores of people were treated for cholera and died at the site in the 1860s.

Rounding out the tour, we peeked into the pasts of a few other historic structures, including the Second Empire-style former home of Dr. Franz Arzt at 2322 S. 12th St. – built in the 1870s – along with the home next door, where the tour paused at a lush side garden. The Arzt House’s current owners spoke about its history before turning us loose into tunnels beneath it, a common finding in the area.

Ticket sales from many of the Soulard Restoration Group’s events go toward preservation efforts. Venture outside this winter and wander around Soulard, where you too might become awestruck by the neighborhood’s storied past life.

Find upcoming events at soulard.org and on Instagram at @stlsoulard.

Story and photos by Emily Standlee

6 Beds | 9 Baths | 4.5 Private Acres

With nearly a century of St. Louis luxury real estate expertise, Megan Schnoebelen Rowe and her team bring the extraordinary skill exceptional homes require. Megan’s thoughtful guidance ensured this iconic 1930 Ladue estate was sold with unparalleled care and ﬁnesse.

14 HACIENDA DRIVE, LADUE SOLD

Lizzy Dooley Real Estate Team Real Estate Agents

M 314.680.1426 lizzydooley.com

5 Beds | 7 Baths | 0.72 Acres

Lizzy Dooley, a St. Louis native with nearly 20 years of real estate experience, recently guided the sale of this extraordinary Ladue residence with her team, blending her local expertise with a reﬁned sense of the luxury market to showcase the home’s distinctive elegance, thoughtful design, and modern sophistication.

5 Beds | 4 Baths | 4,568 SF

Tucked away on a private cul-de-sac near Ladue & Frontenac, this custom 2021-built home offers modern elegance across 3 levels. With soaring ceilings, a gourmet kitchen, spa-style primary suite, media lounge, bar and more. It is a rare gem that is backed by Lindsey Jacobs and the top-producing Show & Sell STL Team.

4 Beds | 3.5 Baths | 3,440 SF

This sophisticated Clayton contemporary offers 3,440 total living Sq Ft with modern high-end ﬁnishes, a chef’s kitchen, luxurious primary suite, and versatile spaces. Represented by Sabrina Robb and her expert team, the property beneﬁts from their decades of local market experience.

By Lauren Leady > Photos courtesy of Molly Reinhardt

CEMENTING Success

Blending the texture of cement with the character of vintage finds, Cementage, owned by Molly Reinhardt, brings an imaginative twist to functional art.

“In the midst of the pandemic, I needed a creative outlet. I looked into some DIYs and came across cement as a medium,” the St. Louis native says. “I made my first tabletop fire pit for a family member that year and received great feedback from friends and family. At that point, I felt like I could build a business on cement goods, which drove [me to do] additional research and testing.” Her efforts led to word-of-mouth referrals and news segments, firming up the foundation for her enterprise.

Reinhardt enjoys the challenge of trying out techniques as well as exploring other ways to create art from the versatile medium. The artist uses materials such as dry flowers, fire glass, gilding accents, or acrylic paint pens to add depth. As a result of experimenting with color combinations and various silicone molds, Reinhardt found her signature product: tabletop fire pits. Their versatility, safety, and ease of use have resonated with many.

“They are safe for indoor [and] outdoor [use as well as] food-grade safe,” Reinhardt says of the product. “They’re also less work… than lighting a campfire, so no need to worry about bonfire smell on your clothes or waiting for the flame to go out. The fire gel cans that

I offer are just a lid pop and quick ignite away from comfort, and they burn out safely by themselves.”

Teaching is also a large part of Reinhardt’s business. The artisan teaches cementmaking classes at Wild Carrot in St. Louis, offering a relaxed, creative community space where attendees can learn while enjoying complimentary wine and sparkling water.

“Hosting these classes brings me so much joy!” she says. “My most favorite moments are the [reactions to pouring] and the unmoldingreveal. People get really into it, and it’s a proud moment to share with them.”

Reinhardt plans to introduce seasonal pieces and new mold options at future classes. She still has a few spots open in her Dec. 9 and 17 classes, where students can create a holiday tree or a standard planter or vessel.

As her business grows, Reinhardt hopes both her classes and handcrafted pieces continue to bring creativity and comfort to people. “[I aim to foster] a feeling of warmth, peace, and calm,” she adds. “Cementage is an extension of me. I love surrounding myself with these things, and my work offers that [kind of ambiance to] people. Good vibes are my top priority.”

Shop Cementage or book one of Reinhardt’s classes at cementage.com.

Hosting these classes brings me so much joy! My most favorite moments are the [reactions to pouring] and the unmolding-reveal. People get really into it, and it’s a proud moment to share with them.

– MOLLY REINHARDT

SANDO SHACK

One of the busiest St. Louis-based food trucks in the business got a new brick-and-mortar home. Sando Shack moved from its small storefront in Tower Grove South to an ample space in Maplewood, where difficulties with air conditioning necessitated a six-week closure a few weeks into the location’s launch. Now, the concept is back, bigger and better than ever.

Co-owner Amy Guo and her husband, chef Dan Jensen, returned to Guo’s hometown of St. Louis, after living in Chicago and Seattle, with the intention to bring their favorite Asian fusion fare to the Midwest. During their time in the Pacific Northwest, Guo worked in corporate marketing while Jensen managed a food hall. The COVID-19 pandemic postponed the development of their initial venture together – Hello Poke at City Foundry STL – but paved the way for the Sando Shack food truck.

Hello Poke opened in the summer of 2021, and by fall 2022, the duo debuted the original storefront for Sando Shack on Morganford Road. After a couple of years, the restaurant outgrew the primarily carryout capacity. “We felt like we needed a bigger space for people to be able to dine in and bring their families, and we also wanted to be somewhere with more foot traffic,” Guo says.

The high visibility Maplewood property that previously housed Boardwalk Waffles provides just that. Guo and Jensen got to work completely revamping the interior with their signature red and dark gray color scheme and brand designs.

Scan the QR code to learn about the family-friendly dining and entertainment elements incorporated into Sando Shack’s new home.

Sando Shack’s sweet and spicy chicken katsu sando has stood out as the most popular menu item, made with a brined, seasoned chicken thigh that is dredged in panko and deep fried. Served on thick slices of toasted buttery white bread with a side of crispy seasoned fries, the substantial sandwich comes dressed with housemade cabbage slaw and sweet-spicy sauce.

Cheesy curry rice balls are a newer fried appetizer, chock full of Japanese curry and gooey mozzarella, served with yuzu aioli. A creamy egg salad sandwich with a slight kick of wasabi lends a refreshing counterpoint along with appetizers such as cucumber salad. Vegetarian entrees include a sautéed mushroom, carrot, and bok choy rice bowl topped with teriyaki sauce. Breaded portobello mushrooms are also available in a sando topped with a carrot-ginger accoutrement.

With a newly established centralized home base, Guo and Jensen are primed to deliver on their mission to get tasty food to St. Louisans. “I would love to expand people’s palates and introduce them to food options like ours,” Guo says. “I’m really excited to introduce our concept to some new people in a new location. We’re looking forward to growing and being part of this community.”

Sando Shack is currently open Wednesday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Follow along on instagram.com/sandoshackstl for updates.

Sando Shack, 7376 Manchester Road, Maplewood, 314-932-7046, Sando Shack on facebook.com

Story and photos by Mabel Suen

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Give the Gift of Animals Always

Animals

…and

Be Remembered

When you become a member of the Saint Louis Zoo’s Heritage Society, your future gi creates a legacy for you while guaranteeing that our Zoo continues to be one of the nest in the world — leading in animal care and providing unforgettable guest experiences for years.

Please contact the Planned Giving O ce at (314) 646-4973 or visit stlzoo.org/plannedgiving for more information.

Be remembered forever by considering the Saint Louis Zoo in your estate plans.

Be remembered forever by considering the Saint Louis Zoo in your estate plans. Please contact the Planned Giving O ce at (314) 646-4973 or visit stlzoo.org/plannedgiving for more information.

Please contact the Planned Giving O ce at (314) 646-4973 or visit stlzoo.org/plannedgiving for more information.

Be remembered forever by considering the Saint Louis Zoo in your estate plans.

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december gallery auction

December Gallery Auction

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a two-day auction featuring Contemporary art from an important St. Louis Estate, including works by Donald Judd, Ellsworth Kelly, Roy Lichtenstein, Frank Stella, Alex Katz, Sam Francis, Sol Lewitt, Robert Rauschenberg, Nan Goldin, Tom Sachs, Judy Dater, Robert Motherwell, Tina Barney, Alan Magee, and Mark DiSuvero; Antique French, English, and American furniture; rare French perfume flacons; sterling silver including Cartier, Georg Jensen, and Tiffany; fine jewelry highlighted by a group of Barry Brinker rings; a large collection of Cambridge Royal Blue nude stem glasses; Art Nouveau and Art Deco furniture and decorative art; Asian porcelain, jade and ukiyo-e; handwoven carpets and more.

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2029 South Warson - Ladue

Some homes carry more than history—they hold legacy. This extraordinary 1931 estate, nestled on over six acres in the heart of Ladue, was entrusted to The Ryan Tradition after 53 years of ownership.

With mature trees, curated gardens, and a rare buildable parcel, the property offered unmatched privacy, charm, and potential. Whether restoring the original residence, building anew, or investing in expansion, the possibilities were as exceptional as the setting.

Through strategic positioning, discreet marketing, and expert guidance, the property sold swiftly— re ecting both its unique value and the strength of our representation.

We represent more than a brand—we embody a legacy. Since 1965, our name has stood for discretion, trust, and results in the region’s most prestigious neighborhoods.

In a market de ned by nuance and opportunity, preserving legacy requires more than a sign in the yard. It demands trusted expertise, tailored strategy, and a reputation that opens doors. When it’s time to sell a home that truly matters, trust the name that’s built to honor it.

Clockwise

French Perfume Falcon, Alan Magee, David Hockney, Donald Judd, Ellsworth Kelly, Jean-Pierre Cassigneul and Ernest Trova

SSm HeALTH FoUNDATIoN

“Bright Night” Gala

The SSM Health Foundation hosted its annual “Bright Night” Gala at the Ritz-Carlton, St. Louis in downtown Clayton in October. The black-tie affair welcomed more than 300 guests for both a cocktail reception and three-course gourmet dinner. Event emcee Chelsea Haynes warmed up the crowd ahead of the live auction, led by veteran auctioneer Tom Riles Highlights included luxe vacation getaways and VIP tickets to professional sporting events, from Cardinals baseball to Blues hockey.

The evening also featured entertainment from The Red Jackets, who closed out the soirée. Proceeds from the event help the SSM Health Foundation continue supporting SSM Health and its seven local hospitals in providing exceptional, life-changing health care.

Visit laduenews.com to see more photos from this event >

Bright Night is a reflection of the generosity and compassion that define our community. Together, we are raising funds to directly strengthen vital programs in behavioral health, cancer care, women’s health, hospice and home health, and more, creating lasting impact for patients and families across the St. Louis region.

Maite Ryan, SSM HEALTH FOUNDATION’S BOARD MEMBER AND 2025 GALA CO-CHAIR

maite and michael ryan

rime and Georges Chahoud

Qing Chang, mark Cao

Story and photos by James Anderson

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Luz Irina, bob Pendleton

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FASHION The Evolution of

Photos by Casey Otto Photography

By Andrea Smith

DESIGNERS AND STYLISTS ARE TREATING FASHION LIKE FINE DINING, SERVING STYLE AND ENTERTAINMENT TO AUDIENCES HUNGRY FOR A HEARTY EXPERIENCE.

Shanna Britta’s latest fashion show gave attendees a literal taste of her style. Models strutted between two long tables in layered fall fashions as viewers dined on stuffed acorn squash, a seasonal salad with colors mirroring the clothes on the runway. Four courses and wine pairings immersed viewers in the styles on display.

The vacation-inspired Chic Snowbird collection brought carefully crafted scallops, the moody-yet-elegant Forest of the Moon Queen collection came with richly prepared braised short rib, and the opulent Queen of Masks – The Winter Gala collection provided a finale of chocolate truffles and macaroons.

Photos by Casey Otto Photography

Shanna Britta Mellnick (shannabritta.com) launched her label in St. Louis more than 10 years ago and takes pride in dressing women of all ages and sizes, empowering them with custom options for diverse physical features and lifestyles. “I’m not your typical fashion designer where I tell you what to do and what to wear. I collaborate and listen to you,” Mellnick says.

The October show at 21c Museum Hotel St. Louis (21cmuseumhotels.com/ st-louis), titled “MUSE: The Styled Course,” emphasized the designer’s values of hospitality and sustainability. Chef Bonnie Moore, who leads the hotel’s Idol Wolf restaurant, stayed on brand with high-quality and low-waste dishes. The small, exclusive event exceeded Mellnick’s expectations, with women coming up to the designer post-show to schedule one-on-one consultations.

Mellnick and other designers are thriving by treating fashion like fine dining: They’re serving style and entertainment to audiences hungry for a hearty experience. “We are buying connection now,” says Audra Harrold, executive director of the nonprofit STL Fashion Alliance (stlfashionalliance.org). She’s noticing a shift in consumer behavior, particularly in younger generations who favor quality over quantity and invest in brands or influencers with whom they connect.

Cross-sectoral fashion collaborations across the metro are enabling designers to engage with consumers beyond fashion-centric platforms. Angad Arts Hotel St. Louis, Tapestry Collection by Hilton (angadartshotel.com) recently approached AK Brown (akbrownstl.com), the self-described “multifaceted fashionpreneur,” to launch Ring for Bling Fashion Concierge Service, exclusive to hotel guests. Brown recruited PhanC Consulting (phancconsulting.bigcartel.com) owner Cara Patrice to be her styling partner, and soon after announcing the partnership, Patrice saw the impact on Instagram, where she gained 2,500 new followers and millions of profile views.

Now through the summer of 2026, Brown and Patrice will serve as guests’ shopping guides or curate and deliver a selection of clothes and accessories to their rooms, plus connect those clients with hair, makeup,

photography, and transportation services at the hotel. Guests may choose from an à la carte menu of services or book The Full Glam Experience with amenities like VIP welcome cocktails through Brown’s website or the hotel booking process.

“MUSE: The Styled Course” was a concept of Dwight Carter, owner of the fashion event planning and consulting company Brainchild Next (brainchildnext.com), who chose Mellnick as the featured designer and garnered support from the Saint Louis Fashion Fund (saintlouisfashionfund.org) “Our role is to spotlight those events,” says SLFF executive director Becky Domyan. “We’re trying to accomplish those types of collaborations. Thinking outside of the box, I think that’s what Dwight and Shanna just did. They took it to the next level.”

Carter looks for gaps in St. Louis’ fashion industry and seeks to fill them with novel and exciting solutions. He started MUSE as “F-squared,” referencing fashion and food, in 2014 and has orchestrated five similarly inspired events since then.

“This can go into other events, you know, where music inspires fashion,” Carter says. “A musician can team up with a designer… The song can be based on the design, or the designer can be inspired by the music. Interior designers…could have a certain feel [in each room], and a [fashion] designer could…have a look there that represents [the space].

I plan on expanding…to where it’s not always a fashion show or pop-up, but it’s something that makes people think.”

Domyan hopes to see more complementary, creative partnerships like these and teases that SLFF will soon announce new partnerships for 2026.

“There’s an appetite for this in this market,” she says. “I really am an advocate for coming together more and being noisier, regardless of the space that you’re in.”

To experience fashion in a new format, scan this QR code for information on an event happening this month.

Photos by Jeremy Braggs Photography

Magical A Magical

Mile of Holiday Cheer

By Drew Gieseke >

by Bailey Elizabeth Rogers

Between discovering local makers and delicious food and drink, explore the ins and outs of this beloved holiday tradition.

St. Louis’ largest holiday market is set to return in early December. From notable artists to local businesses and restaurants, the 18th annual Print Bazaar on Cherokee Street is a seasonal tradition that promises the best of what makes the city a rich cultural scene.

“Cherokee is home to some of the most diverse and creative people in the city, and our landscape and businesses reflect that very well,” says John Joern, Cherokee Street Community Improvement District director of events. “You will always find the weird, the wild, and the vibrant on Cherokee.”

The Print Bazaar is an all-day festive celebration featuring more than 200 vendors across 50 venues, all located within one mile of Cherokee Street, near Benton Park, just south of downtown St. Louis. Held on Saturday, Dec. 6, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., this year’s event offers more options than ever for visitors seeking unique gifts.

Central to the celebration is its collection of print vendors. No matter the year, the Print Bazaar always serves as a showcase of local and regional artists whose work includes woodcuts, etching, letterpress, screen printing, lithography, and printed fabrics. Joern says visitors should keep an eye out for a few notable artists this year, including Dan Zettwoch and Killer Napkins as well as Cherokee's own STL Style. “From thank-you cards and stationery to T-shirts and giant wall art, Print Bazaar has it all,” he says.

While the event delivers on all things print, there’s so much more to it than shopping for gifts. Guests can travel the entire street via a free trolley service to sample local food and drink as they shop and stroll. This year’s bazaar offers additional "Market HUBS,” where more than 20 vendors will be grouped together in some of Cherokee Street’s larger buildings.

Photos

These spaces make for excellent “warm up and browse” opportunities, Joern says.

“All of our vendors are hosted by Cherokee businesses, which will also be showcasing their products for the holiday season as well as great food and drink options from our bars and restaurants,” he continues. “Grab a hot adult beverage at The Whiskey Ring or warm up with some Filipino barbecue at The Fattened Caf.”

Key to enjoying the event is staying warm. Print Bazaar offers the aforementioned hubs, but prepare accordingly so you can stick around as long as you desire. “We always urge our guests to bundle up and allow themselves plenty of time so they can drop in at as many spots as possible,” Joern says.

In the coming weeks, the Print Bazaar website will publish a map highlighting where to locate each vendor and other notable experiences along the street. Each participating venue or storefront will hang a Print Bazaar sign in its window to more easily direct traffic.

According to the site, the Print Bazaar tradition began nearly 20 years ago, when a group of local artists, printmakers, and citizens recognized the need for a better representation of the city’s printmaking scene. The tradition is popular today not just because these artists produce fantastic work but because people come from all over to attend the event and support the local maker community.

Thousands of people show up every year, allowing makers to support themselves, refine their craft, and build connections within the community. This engagement goes a long way toward keeping the maker culture alive and thriving in St. Louis. As a result, the Print Bazaar represents a grassroots example of a community that values local creativity, celebrating art as a shared experience rather than just a product.

“We can't express enough how important it is to shop local,” Joern says. “Many of these great artists and businesses rely heavily on your support during the holidays.”

Cherokee Print Bazaar, cherokeeprintbazaar.com

“ We can’t express enough how important it is to shop local. Many of these great artists and businesses rely heavily on your support during the holidays.”

– JOHN JOERN

A Better BETTY’S

Bethany Christo > Photos courtesy of Betty’s Books

The Webster Groves bookstore, dedicated to comics, graphic novels, manga, and more, now offers a café and community spaces at its new location.

Betty’s Books went VROOM! on over to its new Webster Groves location that’s been a SMASH!-hit ever since its grand opening with a BANG! POP! POW! in September.

Since building a beloved community at its prior 10 Summit Ave. location, which opened in 2021, the bookshop packed up its shelves to debut inside its new spot at 8772 Big Bend Blvd. Walking in, one of the biggest changes is the addition of a full-service café, offering locally roasted coffee from Blueprint, housemade syrups, milk from Rolling Lawns Farm, and assorted pastries from Living Room in Maplewood. Shop owner and namesake Betty Bayer says her favorite menu item is a cortado with oat milk; her kids love the cinnamon steamer and orange-cardamon Italian soda.

Bayer’s 8-year-old daughter inspired another update at the Big Bend location. “Before we opened, I was showing her around the store, and she insisted we needed some cool seating for kids,” Bayer says. “Fast-forward to the grand opening when kids and tweens were lounging

around, enjoying the squishy seats and drinking their hot cocoa. I’m glad I took her advice.”

Bayer has made community gathering a bigger focus at Betty’s. The shop’s “Cat Cave” serves as a lounge, coworking, and event space, which the owner says has seen an increase of double the requests for renting and hosting events, partnerships, and collaborations since September. “People are looking for spaces where they can feel at home – but also that sense of community you only get when you’re out in the real world,” she says.

Betty’s Books hosts two monthly book clubs: a graphic novel book club for adults (next up is the Dec. 3 discussion of “Cannon” by Lee Lai) and a zine make-and-swap where a local creative leads a workshop. Graphic artist Vidhya Nagarajan, who writes and illustrates an arts-and-culture column for The New York Times and works as a professor at Washington University in St. Louis, will lead the next one on Dec. 11.

The bookstore also hosts community readings with WashU’s comparative literature department; artist talks, including one with St. Louis’ Jayvn Solomon, who completed Betty’s colorful exterior mural; drawing classes; manhwa (Korean comics) and K-pop parties; themed birthday parties; and a yearly free comic book day. A wedding inside the shop might even be in the books for next year. Up next is Small Business Saturday on Nov. 29, where Betty’s Books will debut new seasonal drinks and offer festivities, plus perks, for those shopping local.

Bayer recognized the need for her eponymous business, having spent her childhood living in a small Iowa town without a local comic bookshop or independent bookstore. Growing up, she loved reading “Calvin and Hobbes,” “Garfield,” and “Archie,” and always enjoyed art and animation. In grad school at Saint Louis University, she read her first graphic, “Relish” by Lucy Knisley, which then became her favorite format to read. After graduating with master’s degrees in information science and education, she taught English and worked at the St. Louis Public Library.

“When I was a high-school English teacher, comics and graphic novels were always checked out the most from my classroom library,” she says. “Discussing these texts with my students was much more engaging and lively than ‘Of Mice and Men’ or ‘Lord of the Flies.’”

Bayer adds, “I love illustrated books and comics, and I love getting to share them with others. But what I love most about my job are the people: my coworkers, the customers, and the friends. It’s an incredible community of readers and artists.”

Betty’s Books, 8772 Big Bend Ave., Webster Groves, 314-279-1731, bettysbooksstl.com

Scan the QR code for recommendations on what comic book and mangas to read next.

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Private Home Health 24hr Affordable Home Health Service. References Available. Call 314-620-3550 or trossiecares@gmail.com

30yrs Exp. Available Now! Providing 12hr shifts & live-in personal care for Alzheimer, Parkinson, Hospice & Stroke Patients. Trustworthy, exceptional worker w/car & insurance. Dr's ref's, police & family check. Call Mary 314-906-4443/LM

HOME CARE: Available ASAP! 36 Years Experience. Contact Deanna for loving, honest caregivers who specialize in dementia care, rehabilitation, and hospice care. Lowest rates with outstanding caregivers. Call/Text: 314-649-0058 or email deannaaltenberndgmail.com

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• Gutter cleaning

HARD WORK YARD WORK

• Planter bed clean-up including weeding,cutting perennials to base

• Planter bed edge-cutting, application of mulch

• Planting (winter is actually a good time to plant many types of trees)

• Stone work (retaining walls, stone borders, patios, walkways)... Both new construction and repair/re-build of existing structures

Providingpracticalsolutionsfor waterproblemsforover50years

Specializingin:

•DownspoutExtensions

•FrenchDrains

•SeepWaterDrainFields

•CatchBasins

•Grading•Swales

•Berms•RocklineChannels

FreeEstimates–FullyLicensed andInsured

Phone:314-291-4700

meyerlandscaping@meyerlandscaping.net

CompleteLawnMaintenance forResidential&Commercial

•Mulching •Edging •Mowing •TurfMaintenance •Planting •Sodding

•Seeding

•Weeding

•Pruning

•Trimming

•BedMaintenance

•Dethatching

•Leaf&Gumball

Cleanup

•BrushRemoval

•RetainingWalls

•PaverPatios&DrainageSolutions LicensedLandscapeArchitect&Designer

MemberofBBB ForaFreeEstimate Call314-426-8833 www.mplandscapingstl.com

Adding New Mowing Clients. Fall Leaf Cleanup with Curb Side Vacuuming. 314-258-0930 Lawn and Garden Custom Upholstery Draperies, Bedding, Pillows, Blinds, Shades, and Shutters.

Lawn Care and More, LLC

Polo's Lawn & Landscape Inc

Retaining Walls, Paver Patios, Decks, Fences, Trees, Landscaping, Lawns, Mulch & Snow Removal & More! FREE Estimates 314-280-2779 poloslawnaol.com

Organizational Services

I can help you DOWNSIZE, pack your house for MOVING, and ORGANIZE any area! Call Cynthia @ 314-972-4674 to simplify your life!

Doug

1.50ctdiamondsandlargertosupplyournationalcustomerbase,and willpay upto$10,000+premiumtofillthatdemand.Wearealsolookingtopurchaseat premiumprices,1ct-10ctdiamondsanyshape,gentlemen’s Rolex, PatekPhilippewatches,etc.andsignedjewelrybyCartier,Tiffany, VanCleef&Arpels,etc. Willpaycash,checkorbankwire.