Arvada, CO September 2023

THE ISSUE Style

Lifestyle Letter

I hope this letter finds you in high spirits and full of creative energy. Our annual style issue gives us a wonderful chance to more deeply explore our own, individual styles. Personal style is not limited to the clothes we wear. It includes the music we choose, the furniture that helps make our home comfortable or a showplace, the kind of car we drive, and even how we decorate our work offices. It encompasses every aspect of our lives--from our flower gardens in spring and summer, to our lighting choices that set the mood from room to room of our homes. Style permeates every facet of our existence. People notice it in the specialty coffees we order, our choice of favorite restaurant, or what scents we choose to wear or fill the air at home. It is a thread that weaves together the tapestry of our lives.

Style is deeply personal, and it evolves as we celebrate our quirks, passions, and desires. It changes as we grow. It is a form of self-expression that communicates who we are, how we perceive the world, and what we value. In this way, style becomes a powerful tool for connection, as it enables us to find common ground with others who share our aesthetic choices.

As individuals, we have the freedom to embrace established styles, blend them together, or forge entirely new paths...becoming trendsetters. We hope this issue inspires you to try new style ideas or explore retro ones. There is so much in Arvada to uplift our spirits, enhance our style, and ignite our creativity.

What I’ve found is that the best style is an authentic expression of who you really are. That’s something no one on Earth can duplicate.  Here’s to being uniquely you. Let it show!

September 2023

PUBLISHER

Cody Sturma | cody.sturma@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Allison Bankston | allison.bankston@citylifestyle.com

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Rachel Audette | rachel@theturquoisecamera.com

STAFF WRITER

Lila Ruppe | Lila.Ruppe@du.edu

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Carrie Holliday, Arvada Chamber of Commerce, Blindsmith Inc, Dr. Julie Henderson, Joshua Langley, Sonora Cinemas de Arvada, Kira Bull-Key Media, and Hope, Connection, and Community

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

CONTROLLER Gary Johnson

ALLISON BANKSTON, EDITOR

AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall

LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray

Proverbs 3:5-6

@ARVADALIFESTYLEMAGAZINE

city scene

Where

1:

players: Lynette Kotsay Beard, Leila Benyoussef, Olivia Kotsay Beard, Taryn Kaye, and Lauren Trenoing 2: The Pure Dermal group at the Apex Parks and Recreation Simms Street Center Aug. 2. 3: Pure Dermal Care tried their hands at pickleball, as so many clients enjoy the sport.

New Dawn Chiropractic staff: (L-R) Erin Sherman, Gabi Rodrigues (new employee), and Dr. Julie Henderson.

PuroClean of Boulder/Broomfield at the 2nd Annual ALM Abatements Golf Tournament benefiting Second Wind Fund. 6: The Second Wind Fund connects youth at risk for suicide with life-saving mental health treatment. 7: The tournament took place August 21 at Arrowhead Golf Course.

Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @ArvadaLifestyleMagazine

Pickleball

4:

5:

CARRIE HOLLIDAY

LYNETTE KOTSAY BEARD

LYNETTE KOTSAY BEARD

LYNETTE KOTSAY BEARD

DR. JULIE HENDERSON

CARRIE HOLLIDAY

CARRIE HOLLIDAY

business monthly

A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Sonora Cinemas de Arvada Opens

Sonora Cinemas has moved into the former Elvis Cinemas location in Arvada at 5157 West 64th Avenue. The entertainment outlet was originally located at Aurora Plaza on Peoria Street and East 6th Avenue. Sonora Cinemas offers blockbuster movies in Spanish or with Spanish subtitles and an assortment of Mexican botanas (snacks). Check out their movie times at sonoracinemas.com/arvada

New Location for Summit Cleaning

Summit Cleaning has opened its new location. The business is now at 6510 West 91st Avenue Suite 90 in Westminster. Summit Cleaning services homes in the Front Range area, providing house cleaning of all types. The company uses eco-friendly products which are safe for customers, their employees, and the environment. They are licensed, insured, and bonded with all employees going through background checks. For more information visit summitcleaningco.com.

Hope, Connection, and Community Gala

The 1st Annual Hope, Connection, and Community Christmas in July Gala was a great success on July 29 at the Hilton Garden Inn, Arvada. HCC relies on private donations and funding to continue programs for children and families in Arvada and Jefferson County. The gala raised $28,000 to support the following programs: Hope for Kids-Back to School, Kutz 4 Kidz, Santa’s workshop, Project Prom, and Eat Well Live Well. Lean more at  hopeconnectioncommunity.org.

Photography Sonora Cinemas de Arvada

Photography Hope, Connection, and Community

Photography Arvada Chamber of Commerce

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Arvada

Arvada Chamber of Commerce Leadership Luncheon

The Hilton Garden Inn, Arvada hosted the Arvada Chamber of Commerce Leadership Luncheon--Women to Watch on July 19. Women to Watch is a gateway to invaluable insights, strategies, and inspiration from accomplished women who have shattered glass ceilings in their careers. This event featured Dr. Denise Caleb, M.Ed., CME, SHRM-CP, PHRFirst Vice President and Director, FutureSense®. To find out more about Women to Watch, go to arvadachamber.org.

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IF YOU ARE READING THIS... SO IS YOUR BEST CLIENT.

2 OUT OF 3 of our readers regularly purchase from our ads.

Photography Joshua Langley

This stunning mountain horse property is bordered by Hobbs Peak Park, an exceptional natural space that gives you access to dozens of meandering trails while still only being 12 minutes away from charming downtown Evergreen. Available for showings now!

Sleek Style and Privacy

BLINDSMITH, INC.

ARTICLE BY ALLISON BANKSTON PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF BLINDSMITH, INC.

Privacy, style, and function are all the driving forces behind choosing the best blinds for you and your home. Lori Lipker and her husband, Jeff, have owned Blindsmith, Inc. in Arvada for seven years, and the business has been providing blind products and services to the region for 25 years. Lori says there are some consistent trends in recent years and some newer ones.

“Gray tones are still very popular,” says Lori. “We tend to drive people toward the taupes as they tend to be a better long-term match for floorings and furniture choices, but the grays are still very much a top choice.” Hunter Douglass reports deeper accent colors are hot this year, especially pinks and reds, including terra cotta-inspired rose hues and midtone neutrals between blush and beige. Going with a more neutral but warm-toned shade will mean your home is set up for the hottest colors for 2023 but also ready to adapt to the coming year’s trends.

Many newer homes are going toward roller shades with a sleek design, but because energy efficiency is playing such a huge part in everything, the Hunter Douglass Duettes® are extremely popular. “They’re a 5-star product that qualifies for a federal tax credit up to $1,200,” says Lori, “You can get 30-percent back on your federal tax credit as well as a check from XCEL–$1.33 per square foot.”

Some Hunter Douglas designs include greater privacy. Lori says. “It’s important to decide what your priorities are. Do you want more light? More privacy? Or are you seeking higher energy efficiency and the rebates?” All those factors play into the final decision. The Sillhouette® series of blinds are especially interesting. You can see outside, but others cannot see into your home, allowing more light inside while preserving privacy.

Top blind brands are designed to last for decades if you take care of them. That means some regular maintenance and cleaning every 4-5 years. Waiting beyond that can result in more stubborn staining or dirt build-up that can negatively affect the long-term functionality of your blinds. Blindsmith has cleaning and repair services available. Cleaning takes about 3-5 days and costs $22-35 per blind depending on size.

Lori advises people to start small when adding new window treatments. Don’t feel you have to get new blinds for your whole home at once. Pick a space, such as a bathroom to start. “We also recommend you come into the showroom,” says Lori. “Touch the fabrics, feel the controls, and make sure it’s going to feel comfortable for you.”

Pull cords are going away thanks to new child safety laws. Blindsmith is already selling mostly cordless shades and blinds. That makes a difference to people who might have difficulty reaching the mechanism to lower or raise the shades. That’s why coming to the showroom and experiencing it for yourself makes such a huge difference.   The Hunter Douglass brand goes a long way when you are selling your home. “People know the name, and it helps increase your home's value,” says Lori.

For Lori and Jeff, the joy of the business is all about relationships. “We love our customers. They come back for cleanings and repairs, and then when they’re ready for a new set of blinds, they already know us and trust us.” Plus people love coming into the store to see their shop dog, Mowgly. “People are disappointed if he’s not here when they stop by.”  Check out the selection of blinds at Blindsmith, Inc. at 6040 West 59th Ave in Arvada or blindsmithcolorado.com , or give them a call at 303-467-7969.

“We also recommend you come into the showroom. Touch the fabrics, feel the controls, and make sure it’s going to feel comfortable for you.”

—Lori Lipker, Co-owner of Blindsmith, Inc.

Capturing Your Treasured Memories

Rachel Audette is in her 9th season as a professional photographer. The owner of The Turquoise Camera works mostly in the Front Range but travels all over the U.S. for weddings and other gatherings. As the staff photographer for Arvada Lifestyle Magazine, she covers local events and tells the stories of people’s interesting lives and businesses through pictures.

“I get to make people smile for a living, and that’s pretty cool,” says Rachel. “I get to be there for some of the most joyous days of their lives, and helping them preserve those special memories is incredible!”

Rachel has a gift for helping people feel comfortable in front of the camera and making the experience as stress-free as possible. “I do a lot of prep work ahead of time to make sure things go smoothly.”

Early in her career, Rachel did the photos for her childhood best friend’s wedding. So much of the wedding was

hand-made with things like pickled vegetables for guest favors. “The whole day was so meaningful and unique, and it ignited my passion for doing wedding photography and helping people keep those precious memories.”

Allison Bankston is the editor of Arvada Lifestyle. “Rachel has been an incredible addition to our team at the magazine. Her work is always high-quality, and she puts a lot of thought into how she represents people and businesses. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed working with her.”

Rachel says working with Arvada Lifestyle Magazine has been a great experience. “I get to connect directly with the community and see so many places and businesses I hadn’t been to previously. Developing those relationships has been amazing!”

For more information or to book Rachel for photography services, call 720-2956496 or visit theturquoisecamera.com

PHOTOGRAPHY

BY RACHEL AUDETTE, THE TURQUOISE CAMERA

ARTICLE BY ARVADA LIFESTYLE STAFF

Rachel Audette, The Turquoise Camera

Making Kitchen Dreams Come True

ARTICLE BY LILA RUPPE

STONEBRIDGE BUILDERS

Kitchen is often synonymous with community. It’s the place where families come together through home-cooked meals, friends connect over fresh popcorn, and grandmothers pass down recipes. When your kitchen is the core of your home, it’s important to keep it updated. Chris Tolar, owner of Arvada’s Stonebridge Builders, has the latest renovation tips to keep your kitchen fresh for years to come.

Luckily, getting your kitchen in prime shape doesn’t have to break the bank. Freshening up the paint on cabinets and walls can update the look while also giving the opportunity to incorporate an interesting pop of color. To update cabinets in good condition, consider refacing or refinishing them. Chris explains, “Refacing involves replacing the cabinet doors and drawer fronts while keeping the original cabinet boxes. Refinishing involves painting or staining the existing cabinets and doors or replacing the doors and drawer fronts.” Switching out cabinet knobs and drawer pulls adds freshness and character without much time or cost.

Changing up countertops, backsplashes, and lighting can make a big difference in the look of your kitchen. Tile and laminate countertops are a clean look without a high price tag. Bold backsplashes can be a great statement piece, whether they’re patterned, brightly colored, or something else entirely. Freshening up the lighting can completely change the environment. Chris explains, “Layered lighting – a mix of task, ambient, and accent lighting – can dramatically change the feel of the space.”

Renovations can both brighten up your kitchen and increase the value of your home. Kitchen renovations are known for having a high return on investment (ROI). In fact, minor kitchen remodels can recoup approximately 78% of their cost in added home value.

(Remodeling Magazine's 2020 Cost vs. Value Report.)

If you’re open to a higher budget, customization options broaden significantly. Extra appliances like wine coolers and double dishwashers can increase the functionality of your kitchen. Smart appliances, custom cabinetry, luxury materials, and customized islands are all options available with a bit more investment. Certain smart appliances have technology integrated that can respond to voice commands and let you know when you’re running out of milk. Islands can include prep sinks, cooktops, range hoods, or bar areas. Whether you mainly use your kitchen just to cook or for entertaining can change which customizations work best for you.

Keeping on top of current home style trends can help you pick features and finishes that fit with the times. Here are a few popular ideas:

• Open Shelving & Two-tone Cabinets: show off your organizational skills with open shelving, which also helps build an open feel. Two-tone cabinets (having a different color on the upper and lower cabinets) give your cabinetry eye-catching contrast.

• Mixing Metals & Matte Finishes: try combining complementary metal fixtures and hardware for visual interest. Matte finishes are distinctly modern and can suit everything from cabinets to appliances.

• Sustainable Materials: eco-friendly choices, such as reclaimed or recycled wood, are increasingly popular, and they give you the opportunity to create an eco-conscious kitchen.

Speaking of trends, many are wondering if stainless steel is still in style. The answer is that stainless steel is a neutral,

safe choice, but newer design trends are becoming increasingly popular. More people are straying from stainless steel and experimenting with integrated appliances and ones in colors like black and navy blue.

While trends can provide great inspiration, make sure to follow your own personal taste and sense of style. Chris notes, “Trends come and go, but your kitchen

“Layered lighting...can dramatically change the feel of the space.” Chris Tolar, Owner

Chris, Tolar, Owner (Photography by Rachel Audette, The Turquoise Camera

is a long-term investment that should bring you joy and functionality for many years to come.” Incorporating personal taste is important, especially for those who enjoy cooking or using their kitchen as a community space. Remember to listen to your personal style instincts, and you will design a kitchen that will always be enjoyed.

Stonebridge Builders started out as a residential remodeling company and expanded its services over the years to include large-scale commercial work. They remain committed to residential renovations.

your return ON INVESTMENT

A 2022 report from Today’s Homeowner showed remodeling projects, in general, boost your average return on investment (ROI) to 67%. Both midrange and upscale kitchen renovations yield an expected 53% ROI. Adding quartz or granite countertops is likely to bring you more than a 60% ROI, while new, modern laminate countertops still show a lot of worth with 50% ROI, making many kitchen renovations very worthwhile.

From basement finishing to state-of-the-art chef’s kitchens or adding an extra bathroom, the company enjoys making their clients’ dream spaces come to life. For commercial property owners in the market for renovations, Stonebridge Builders has the experience to take care of commercial upgrades and apartment remodels on time and within budget.

For more information and inspiration visit stonebridgebuilders.net or call Stonebridge Builders at 303-425-9999.

ARTICLE BY LILA RUPPE

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KIRA BULL, KEY MEDIA

The 2018 Audi R8

BUILT FOR STYLE AND SPEED

The feel, the rush, the speed: these are just a few things that make this 2018 Audi R8 exceptional. It sports a V10 twin-turbo engine that pumps out 1600 HP, contributing to the thrilling speeds it can reach. Modifications give this notable addition to the local car scene a life of its own.

The owner, Shauna Morse, bought the Audi from Sheepey Race in California. Her good friend, Alex Soto, the owner and founder of Sheepey, built the car. The massive V10 motor is located in the back, and it runs on E85, the most common form of flex fuel. The Audi R8 was born in the early 2000s. Many consider it to be Audi’s first supercar–that is, their first street-legal, high performance sports car. It was based on the Audi Le Mans Quattro, a concept car shown at the 2003 Frankfurt Auto Show. The R8 was designed to dominate the track and thrive on the road. Shauna is proving that it is certainly capable of both.

“It’s where I find my peace of mind. Just turn on some music and cruise, hear the sound of the car, and enjoy the open road and some soul searching.” —Shauna Morse

Shauna, who also owns Kickin Wings in Wheat Ridge, still races her modified R8 at the Bandimere Speedway in Morrison, location of the Dodge Power Brokers NHRA Mile-High Nationals. Her current top speed is an impressive 187 MPH down straights and 150 MPH around turns. The Denver area’s bustling car scene makes it a great place for a vehicle like this. She comments, “It’s a huge car scene with many modified and non-modified cars, and everyone loves to see a rare vehicle that someone takes care of.” The scene has a love for cars that goes beyond the vehicles themselves. An entire culture and community is built around cars. In fact, there are regular car meets and active car clubs in Arvada.

Needless to say, the vehicle is eye-catching. Shauna gets approached about the vehicle nearly every time she takes it out. Fellow drivers on the road also tend to give the car looks of admiration. The lively local car scene ensures that there is always someone who will notice the vehicle, although it is not difficult to notice how exceptional it is.

The story of Shauna discovering her love for cars, and this car in particular, goes way back. She says, “I’ve always been a track and car girl.” She has always been captivated by the adrenaline and the roar of the engine. Her dad raced Top Fuel at Bandimere Speedway, the same track she races at now. Top Fuel cars are known for accelerating with astonishing quickness. Ever since her passion for cars was sparked, her favorite place to be is in the shop. Driving is her outlet, similar to many other car enthusiasts. She says, “It’s where I find my peace of mind. Just turn on some music and cruise, hear the sound of the car, and enjoy the open road and some soul searching.”

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES STYLIST: AMANI SKALACKI

THE little BLACK DRESS

Most of us can say we have that one staple black dress that can be worn at any occasion, and the classic look is not only popular but is elegant and timeless. It is the dress in our closet that can be accessorized to fit the event and often is the dress we go back to time and again. It is one of the most versatile items we own, never goes out of style and looks good on anyone. But how did this classic look originate?

Prior to the 1920’s, black was reserved for funeral wear, but when Coco Channel made the bold move to print a short, black dress on the cover of Vogue in 1926, all of that changed. The popularity of the black dress skyrocketed, and it became one of the most influential pieces of clothing. Chanel transported fashion from tight corsets and bustles to straight-lined silhouettes. Because of its affordability, black remained a popular choice during The Great Depression. The black dress had another boom in popularity when “Breakfast at Tiffany’s’’ debuted, and Audrey Hepburn showcased her iconic black dress with long, black gloves. Today, people accessorize the black dress to fit any occasion.

We enlisted the help of stylist, Amani Skalacki, to show us how versatile the little black dress can be.

“We usually think of the little black dress as a piece you wear to an event. However, because black is so flattering on all body types and skin tones, women have multiple black dresses from casual to evening,” Amani says.

Although black is a timeless, classic look, that doesn’t mean it goes without personality. You can make it your own style by accessorizing to infuse new life into a dress that you already own.

“A sequin dress can be dressed up with heels, or that same dress can be transformed into a casual outfit with the addition of tennis shoes and an oversized blazer or a denim jacket. Transform that strappy dress you have been wearing all summer into an outfit that is perfect for chilly fall temperatures. Add a narrow scarf, a leather jacket and sandals or a tall pointy boot, and you have a whole new look for an evening out,” Amani adds.

If you have a dress in the back of your closet that you haven’t worn in years, don’t be afraid to dust it off and give it new life. “Take that evening gown you wore years ago to a tailor for a little transformation. Turn it into a high low dress-top that can be worn out with girlfriends or on a date night. Pair the top with leather leggings, ankle boots, a chunky belt and some statement jewelry, and now you have a piece that pushes the boundaries of the little black dress.”

Are you looking for the best cut or style of dress that works best for your body type? Amani provided this simple guide:

HOURGLASS FIGURE:

• V-necklines

• Cinched-in waistlines

• Tailored/fitted dresses

PEAR OR TRIANGLE FIGURE:

• Tailored dresses

• Off the shoulder

ATHLETIC FIGURE:

• Embellished

• Ruffles

• Empire waist

• Volume is your friend

APPLE FIGURE:

• Drop waist

• A-line

The dress that all body types can’t go wrong with is a wrap dress of any length.

THE POPULARITY OF THE BLACK DRESS SKYROCKETED and IT BECAME ONE OF THE MOST influential PIECES OF CLOTHING.

COCO CHANNEL MADE THE BOLD MOVE TO PRINT A SHORT, BLACK DRESS ON THE COVER OF VOGUE IN 1926

realty report

A sample of recently sold properties in Arvada.

Information obtained through RE Colorado Multiple Listing Service. List and sold price reflect one selected home within the respective subdivision.

events

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

SEPTEMBER 3RD

Rescue Puppy Yoga

PET WANTS ARVADA, 7674 GRANDVIEW AVENUE, SUITE 100 IN ARVADA | 11:00 AM

Rescue Puppy Yoga finds fosters, funds and forever homes for animals in need. The class happens the first Sunday of each month. Arrive 10-15 minutes early to get comfortable and sign a waiver. All ages welcome. Class is 45 minutes long. You will have 15 minutes after class to take pictures, play, and fill out adoption applications. Tickets: iResQ.co

SEPTEMBER 8TH

Olde Town Shindig

OLDE TOWN ARVADA | 5:00 PM

The Olde Town Shindig: an Arts and Music Festival is set for September 8-10, in conjunction with the Third Annual Rocky Mountain Archtop Guitar Festival. This free, family event will feature artisan vendors, live music, a mural competition, a kid zone, food, and drinks. Find out more at oldetownarvada.org/events

SEPTEMBER 8TH

Arvada Harvest Festival

MULTIPLE LOCATIONS IN ARVADA | 4:00 PM

Arvada Harvest Festival & Grand Parade is a free, family-friendly event every fall in downtown Arvada. The festival features carnival rides, food and vendor booths, a spelling bee, a talent show, garden harvest contests, a car show, a cow chip tossing competition, a kids' parade, and live entertainment.  For the schedule and specific locations for each event, visit arvadaharvestfestivalparade.com .

SEPTEMBER 8TH

Rocky Mountain Archtop Festival

HILTON GARDEN INN ARVADA DENVER, 5455 OLDE WADSWORTH BOULEVARD IN ARVADA | 7:30 PM

For one weekend in September, Arvada becomes the center of the archtop guitar universe. This festival features more than 30 premier guitar builders and world class players, teachers and clinicians offering workshops and concerts around Olde Town Arvada. Over 60 hours of music and more than 30 workshops and clinics will take place September 8-10.  More at: archtopfestival.com

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Arvada

Dog, Puppy, and Cat Adoption Event

PET WANTS ARVADA, 7674 GRANDVIEW AVENUE, SUITE 100 IN ARVADA | 12:00 PM

Meet some adorable animals who need forever homes. Pet Wants Arvada partners with iResQ for this adoption event every Sunday 12:00-3:00 PM. All puppies are age appropriate and vaccinated. Please be prepared to follow iResQs safety protocols when handling the rescue animals for their safety and health. For more information contact:iresqrr@gmail.com

Arvada Rent-Alls’ 60th Anniversary Celebration

ARVADA RENT-ALL, 10675 RALSTON ROAD IN ARVADA | 4:00 PM

Celebrate Arvada Rent-Alls’ 60th year in business from 4:00-8:00 PM. Special deals, discounts, free drinks, and everyone who attends gets a 10% off rental or sales voucher. They’ll also have drawings for some big ticket items. This event is free but requires advance tickets. For more information visit facebook.com/ArvadaRentAlls and click on events.

Apple Cider Sangria

ARTICLE BY ALLISON BANKSTON

Ingredients:

• 1 bottle, standard size,  of pinot grigio

• 2 1/2 cups fresh apple cider

• 1 cup club soda

• 1/2 cup ginger brandy

• 3 honey crisp apples, chopped

• 3 pears, chopped

Directions:

Combine all ingredients together and stir. Refrigerate for an hour or so (or longer) before serving. The drink can be enjoyed immediately, if desired, but the longer you let the ingredients sit and mix, the deeper the flavors will be. Giving it time to develop will make the drink more captivating and interesting.

Note:

Regular brandy can be used, but ginger brandy gives it an extra kick of flavor.

A late summer/early fall treat

September is the lead-in month to fall. It still features the warm, sunny days of summer but nights start to drop into the crisp temperatures. That leaves us in the limbo of wanting cool, refreshing drinks part of the time but also craving the deeper, spice-infused flavors of autumn. This recipe for apple cider sangria is the perfect blending of the seasons, leaving you feeling both refreshed and warmed through the deep flavors and interesting hints of spice. It’s a great drink to add to any dinner party, cocktail gathering, back deck after-hours get-together, or birthday bash. Here’s what you need to make the perfect mid-season cocktail to enhance whatever event you have planned.