ATX, TX December 2025

CHEERS to the Season A R T S + C U LT U R E

AUSTIN' S ARM ADI LLO CH RISTM A S BA Z A AR CELEBRATES 50 YE ARS HOME + DESIGN

TIM ELESS H O LI DAY GL AM OU R IN EVERY DETAI L F O O D + B E V E R AG E

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

A Season of Light and Giving As the year winds down, Austin shines a little brighter. From the glow of twinkle lights, art, and live music at the Armadillo Christmas Bazaar to the shimmer of creative cocktails at festive pop-up bars, the city hums with celebration and community.

This issue captures that spirit in every story.

You’ll meet Eva Wolf, whose new agency, ASK Wolf, empowers brands to find their authentic voice, and Paola Vargas of Pink Flamingo Candle, who pours passion and purpose into every hand-crafted scent. Local interior designer Janna Paulson shares thoughtful tips for creating an elegant home for the holidays.

For those seeking a little escape, we highlight a coastal Christmas at Cinnamon Shore in Port Aransas — a short drive that feels a world away. And if your idea of holiday cheer comes in a glass, our La Caza Tequila cocktails will inspire your next toast. However you celebrate, may your season be filled with laughter, light, and moments that remind you how lucky we are to call this city our home.

Wishing you joy and warmth this holiday season!

December 2025 PUBLISHER

Zack Fogelman | zack.fogelman@citylifestyle.com M AN AG I N G E D I TO R

Julie Royce | julie.royce@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R I AL C O O R D I N ATO R

Juan Martinez | juan.martinez@citylifestyle.com CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Janna Paulson C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R S

Zion Bliss, Jennifer Ramos

Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt President Matthew Perry COO David Stetler

J U L I E R OYC E , M A N AG I N G E D I TO R @ AT X C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E

CRO Jamie Pentz CoS Janeane Thompson AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall LAYOUT DESIGNER Amanda Schilling QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise.

Proverbs 3:5-6 ATX City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the ATX area’s most affluent neighborhoods.

Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions.

Visit our Instagram C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E . C O M / AT X

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L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent.

Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in ATX City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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inside the issue D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 5 | HO L I DAYS & G I V I N G

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Featured

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16 22 28 6

The Art of Austin’s Holiday Spirit

Armadillo Christmas Bazaar celebrates 50 years of artistry and community

28 On the Cover

Departments

Elegant holiday decor by PPDS's interior designer Janna Paulson at a Barton Creek residence.

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Lifestyle Letter

8

City Scene

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Business Monthly

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Must See ARTS + CULTURE

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Happy Hour LIFE + CULTURE

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Maker’s Studio PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

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Decor Trends HOME + DESIGN

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Locally Sourced SHOPPING

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Chef ’s Selection FOOD + BEVERAGE

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How To HOME + DESIGN

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Travel Journal TRAVEL

Toast the Season

Festive pop-ups bring Austin’s bars to life

Timeless Elegance in Holiday Home Design Austin designer Janna Paulson blends classic architecture with modern sophistication for a festive retreat

The Scent of Joy

Pink Flamingo Candle founder Paola Vargas turns everyday scents into joyful expressions of faith, artistry and holiday warmth

Photography: Zion Bliss

DECEMBER 2025

city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1

2

CHRISTINA FISHER

3

MAGE BUSE

4

JULIE ROYCE

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WEST CHELSEA CONTEMPORARY

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GRIFFIN FINANCIAL GROUP

LIZ WENDLER

ERICH SCHLEGEL

1: Artist Ash Almonte hand-painted jeans at Frame on S. Congress to kick off ACL weekend. 2: Maren Morris kicks off ACL weekend at The Proper Hotel. 3: Hotel Van Zandt's cocktail bar, Brass Poppy, celebrated its one-year anniversary. 4: Local musician and artist Bob Schneider at West Chelsea Contemporary. 5: Griffin Financial Group volunteering at the Central Texas Food Bank. 6: Attendees at the UpLevel Her women’s conference held at Q2 stadium, hosted by Austin Woman's Magazine. 7: ATX partner, Goodnight Loving's Alison Blair, helped clean up trash under the Montopolis Bridge in East Austin.

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TA G Y O U R I N S TA G R A M P H O T O S W I T H @ AT X C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E

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C I T Y SC E N E

Where Business Meets Real Connection.

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The network where excellence meets trust. Whether you’re looking for the perfect professional or want to join a community built on quality and connection, visit www.getvibey.com

The Founders: Henry, Cass & JP

Legacy Members leading the way in Austin: James Kuntz, founder of Tarrytown Roofing, is trusted across Central Texas.

Gabriel Martin, founder of GM Films, brings stories and brands to life.

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DECEMBER 2025

business monthly A R O U N D U P O F N E W S F R O M LO C A L B U S I N E S S E S

Build Native selected as a 2025 TxN 20 Honoree Build Native is happy to announce that they’ve been selected as a 2025 TxN 20 Honoree by the conservation non-profit organization Texan by Nature! Build Native was ranked among the top businesses leading conservation and environmental sustainability right here in Texas. Learn more about their commitment to building an environmentally sustainable future at www.txn20.org

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Registration is now open for Camp Doublecreek Yee-haw! Registration is now open for Camp Doublecreek! Saddle up and join them for Winter, Spring, and Summer Camp. Discover new skills, explore the outdoors, and make Texas-sized memories. Don’t miss the wagon — spaces fill quickly! Come experience the magic of camp, no matter the season! Don't forget to check out our Horseback riding academies at our Pflugerville campus, DC Riding!

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FVF Law named Austin's Charitable Champion FVF Law was honored to be named the Charitable Champion at the Austin Gives Awards this year. Hosted by the Austin Chamber of Commerce, these awards shine a light on the generosity and charitable efforts of Austin’s business community. As a values-driven firm, FVF’s community giving is a natural extension of their purpose. Every organization they support is a reflection of their belief that doing good should be at the core of doing business.

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THE ART OF AUSTIN’S Holiday Spirit

Art appreciation.

ARMADILLO CHRISTMAS BAZAAR CELEBRATES 50 YEARS OF ARTISTRY AND COMMUNITY ARTICLE BY JULIE ROYCE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNIFER RAMOS

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M UST SE E | ARTS + C ULT U RE

One of the many artists at the Bazaar.

Ruthie Foster performing at Armadillo Bazaar.

For half a century, the Armadillo Christmas Bazaar has been more than a market — it’s been a movement.

“The Armadillo was born from Austin’s creative rebellion: artists, musicians and dreamers who wanted to do things differently,” said Anne Johnson, producer and general manager. “Fifty years later, that spirit is still the backbone of what we do.”

What began as a simple wish by Lucinda Williams for her artist friends to have a warm place to sell their work on a cold December day has evolved into one of Austin’s most beloved traditions. Bruce Willenzik, then kitchen manager at the iconic Armadillo World Headquarters, seized the idea and launched the first show in 1976. That inaugural event captured the eclectic magic of Austin’s creative class, and the energy never faded.

Over the decades, the Bazaar has moved from its original home to six different venues, including Cherry Creek Plaza, the Austin Music Hall and now the Palmer Events Center.

Each space brought its own character.

Johnson recalls that the Palmer location, where the event has thrived since 2010, finally “felt like home.” The warm glow of individually lit booths and the rhythm of live music make the venue feel “like a collection of little Christmas box shops,” she said.

But the heart of the Bazaar has always been its people, generations of artists and fans who’ve turned the annual event into a family tradition.

Johnson herself is what she calls an “Armadillo baby,” having grown up watching her parents help run the show. Now she leads it.

“It’s a family and a community,” she said.

“You can bring your grandmother or your kids…

It’s something everyone can connect to.”

For artists, the Armadillo Christmas Bazaar can be a transformative experience.

“For new artists, getting into Armadillo can be career-changing. For seasoned ones, it’s a homecoming,” Johnson said.

The show’s curated roster is highly selective; each artist undergoes interviews, studio tours, and reference checks. Once accepted, they’re mentored in booth design, lighting, and presentation. That investment pays off as many artists credit the Bazaar with launching their careers.

Photographer Greg Davis, for instance, was discovered at the show by a National Geographic representative, who signed him as a contributing photographer. Another veteran, woodblock artist Darryl Howard, now exhibits work collected by patrons nationwide, many of whom travel to Austin each December to see her latest creations.

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As Austin has grown and changed, the Armadillo Christmas Bazaar has remained a steadfast symbol of authenticity.

“Austin has changed so much, but what people still crave is authenticity, and that’s what the Armadillo delivers every December,” Johnson said. The mix of fine art, handmade craftsmanship, and live music has created what she calls “the perfect Austin synergy — refined but real, sophisticated but still a little weird.”

Even with other art markets and holiday fairs joining the scene, the Armadillo maintains its distinction through personal connection. Unlike shows where artists need not be present, this one is all about meeting the maker.

“If you want to know the story behind a piece, meet the artist and know that your purchase

directly supports them, this is where you go,” Johnson explained.

This year’s 50th anniversary show will honor that enduring legacy with a special exhibition featuring original armadillo-themed works from more than fifty participating artists. Visitors can vote for their favorites in a People’s Choice competition, a playful celebration of creativity that perfectly captures the Bazaar’s community spirit.

For Johnson, the reward comes each winter when the empty hall transforms into a twinkling wonderland of art, sound, and connection.

“I get to see this cinder block building turn into something beautiful,” she said. “When the lights come on and the booths are filled, it’s pure magic.”

The Bazaar will run from December 13 through December 21, 11:00 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.daily.

"Austin has changed so much, but what people still crave is authenticity, and that’s what the Armadillo delivers every December"

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M UST SE E | ARTS + C ULT U RE

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Drink some Still Austin Bourbon with your favorite elf at Hotel Van Zandt. Image courtesy of Hotel Van Zandt.

TOAST

the Season

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H AP PY H OU R | L I FE + C ULT U RE

Festive pop-ups bring Austin’s bars to life

Lala's countdown to Christmas clock. Photo by Julie Royce.

ARTICLE BY JULIE ROYCE

Get into the spirit at one or all of these pop-up holiday-themed bars happening around Austin this winter.

GIBSON STREET BAR

Head to Gibson Street Bar for festive drinks and an over-the-top holiday display. This South Lamar hotspot is known for celebrating the season in style, and this year is no exception. Guests can step into a dazzling Winter Wonderglam wonderland featuring larger-than-life décor, photo opportunities with Santa, and a menu of specialty holiday cocktails. The celebration runs from the end of November through January 5.

LIL’ EASY’S

Lil’ Easy’s Fine Cajun and Bar will host its second annual Cajun Night Before Christmas popup extravaganza from Nov. 28 through Jan 6. Festivities will include New Orleans-style decorations, such as Santa’s sleigh being pulled by alligators, readings of the Southern classic Cajun Night Before Christmas

by Chef Evan, the resident local Cajun, frozen holiday drinks served in limited-time-only memorabilia cups, and specialty pies. While you’re there, don’t forget to place an order for a King Cake to kick off Mardi Gras season.

MERRY MARLOW BAR

Marlow transforms into a festive wonderland this December for Merry Merry Marlow, running December 2–28. The bar will feature elegant holiday décor, perfect for gatherings, office parties, and seasonal fun. Highlights include A Holiday Cabaret on December 18 and 19 with live carols, guest performers, and a “drunk Santa” photo op. Other events include an inclusive vinyl dance party (Dec. 12), a Waikiki Christmas industry party (Dec. 15), and a Christmas Vacation watch party with free cookies (Dec. 16).

Guests can also enjoy festive cocktails and surprise pop-ups announced via Marlow’s Instagram.

LALA’S AND LALA’S SOUTH POLE

It’s Christmas time all year round at the original Lala’s on Justin Lane and the newest location, Lala’s South Pole on Davis Lane. This Austin staple is the place to be for holiday merriment. With wall-to-wall decorations and the booziest holiday-themed cocktails in town, both locations are sure to bring the Christmas magic.

KITTY COHEN’S

Kitty Cohen’s will once again transform into Get Lit, a Hanukkah-themed pop-up first imagined in 2019 by owners Josh Brownfield and Jeremy Murray. The celebration kicks off on December 1 and runs through the end of the month, with lively decorations taking over the bar. Guests can enjoy a special Hanukkah-inspired cocktail menu — while the regular drink list remains available. Highlights include the Maccabee’s Knees, Oy Fashioned, and Latke Punch, a nod to the traditional potato pancake featuring potato vodka, apple cider, ginger liqueur, and lemon.

HOTEL VAN ZANDT

Hotel Van Zandt’s Reindeer Over Rainey is an upscale yet cozy outdoor holiday pop-up, bringing seasonal cheer to the heart of Rainey Street. From Dec. 3 through Dec. 28, gather your crew in a festive Santa Lounge (2–6 guests) or celebrate big in a Snowflake Suite (up to 10 guests). Each reservation includes a chef-curated dinner, holiday-inspired craft cocktails, indulgent desserts, vinyl holiday records to spin, classic board games, and plenty of seasonal surprises. Reservations open Monday, November 3 — don’t miss your chance to celebrate the holidays in true Hotel Van Zandt style.

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RODEO ROOM

Downright Austin’s Rodeo Room transforms into a winter wonderland from Nov. 20 to Jan. 4 for Santa’s Afterparty. Guests can sip holiday-themed cocktails, including the Merry Marg, Spiced Apple Martini, and decadent Swim Club Eggnog, while snacking on festive bites such as fried brie, roasted chestnuts, and s’mores by the fire. With cozy décor and a playful holiday spirit, it’s the perfect spot to toast the season in style.

Merry Marlow brings the glitz and glam.

Image courtesy of Marlow Bar.

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Eva Wolf, founder of Ask Wolf Agency.

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M AK E R’S ST U D IO | P RO FE SSION AL SE RVICE S

EVA WOLF BRINGS STR ATEGY, CREATI VITY A ND COMMUNITY TO AUSTIN

Creating with Intention When Eva Wolf planned a neighbor’s birthday party years ago, she didn’t expect it to ignite a career in brand building. That single event led to helping small businesses craft community-driven experiences and, eventually, to producing large-scale events in Rouen, Normandy.

When the pandemic hit, her clients came to her for guidance on how to “show up online,” and ASK WOLF was born from that demand.

Today, ASK WOLF stands as a strategy-led creative agency focused on helping lifestyle and consumer brands grow with intention.

“Strategy is the canvas and creativity is the color,” Wolf said. “Our clients don’t just want a pretty brand — they want growth.”

The agency’s blend of data-driven insight and artistic innovation helps founders create brands

that perform while staying authentically human.

Wolf, who splits her professional roots between Europe and Austin, merges European storytelling finesse with America’s fearless entrepreneurial spirit.

“My goal is to build brands that are both rooted and ready to move fast,” she explains.

On Dec. 4, Wolf will host Wolf Connect, an immersive event she calls “a business culture experience.” Designed to unite founders, creatives, and dreamers, it promises a night of art, music, and meaningful connection.

“It’s where creativity meets clarity,” Wolf shared. “And where your next breakthrough might start over a drink, a beat, or an idea whispered in a hallway.”

For more information, visit askwolf.agency.

"Wolf Connect isn’t just a networking event — it’s a business culture experience."

ARTICLE BY JULIE ROYCE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALTYNAY

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T IME L E S S E L E G A NC E IN

HOLIDAY HOME DESIGN 22

D E C OR T R E N D S | HO M E + D E SIGN

AUSTIN DESIGNER JANNA PAULSON BLENDS CLASSIC ARCHITECTURE WITH MODERN SOPHISTICATION FOR A FESTIVE RETREAT ARTICLE BY JANNA PAULSON Holiday decorating is more than a seasonal ritual — it’s an art form that balances proportion, color, and emotion. In this Barton Creek residence overlooking the Fazio Foothills, every garland, candle, and flourish feels intentional. The result is a symphony of texture and light that shows how refined design can transform a space from beautiful to unforgettable.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ZION BLISS

CONTINUED >

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The home’s traditional architecture offers a natural framework for sophisticated holiday styling. The décor, however, is where the story unfolds. Deep reds and golds form the foundation, chosen not only for their festive richness but for how they complement the home’s warm undertones.

“Holiday design should always converse with the home itself,” says interior designer Janna Paulson. “Rather than imposing color, you’re amplifying what’s already there… its natural light, its structure, its soul.”

Texture is another quiet hero. In the dining room, the table is a study in sophistication. Red chargers lend richness and set

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D E C OR T R E N D S | HO M E + D E SIGN

a stunning backdrop for fine china, while crystal glassware and polished silver catch the glow of the chandelier above. The centerpiece, a lush arrangement of red roses, peonies, and evergreens, becomes both anchor and art.

Throughout the home, fresh florals bring energy and fragrance to the design.

Paulson encourages clients to think beyond poinsettias.

“Fresh blooms elevate a room instantly.

They bring softness and impermanence — a reminder that beauty is alive and seasonal.”

The mantel in the formal living room offers another focal point. Draped with greenery and adorned with gold accents, it

“NOT EVERY CORNER NEEDS TO SHOUT ‘HOLIDAY.’ SOME SPACES SIMPLY GLOW.” complements the baby grand piano and the large windows overlooking the Foothills Golf Course. The result is luxurious but never excessive — a thoughtful composition that feels both refined and welcoming.

Even the smallest details — the velvet ornaments and the subtle hourglass collection scattered throughout the home — work together to achieve balance.

“Layering is what makes a room feel complete,” Paulson explains. “Each surface should catch light differently, inviting the eye to travel.”

In the foyer, slender twig trees glow beneath the grand staircase, adding a contemporary counterpoint to the

home’s classic bones. Their minimalist form and soft light create a visual pause before guests move through to the main living areas.

“Good design knows when to whisper,” says Paulson. “Not every corner needs to shout ‘holiday.’ Some spaces simply glow.”

Mirrors, glass, and metallics play a key role in amplifying light throughout the home. Reflective surfaces, from crystal ornaments to polished silver trays, help the décor feel luminous rather than heavy. The strategic placement of candles enhances the effect, ensuring that the flicker of flame is echoed across rooms in subtle, enchanting ways.

Each room flows effortlessly into the next, unified by consistent color, proportion, and restraint. While the palette remains classic, the composition feels current — a modern interpretation of tradition.

“Restraint is the ultimate sophistication,” Paulson notes. “The goal isn’t to impress, but to inspire calm beauty. Every piece should earn its place.”

For those looking to elevate their own seasonal décor, Paulson offers this guidance: Start with a clear vision. Define your color story, anchor each room with one focal element, and repeat subtle motifs throughout. Integrate natural materials — florals, greenery, wood, or glass — to create dimension. And most importantly, let the home itself lead the design.

“Architecture always speaks first,” she says. “Listen to it, and your décor will follow effortlessly.”

In the end, great holiday design isn’t about grandeur. It’s about creating spaces that glow with meaning and balance — where light, texture, and memory intertwine. This home, with its graceful lines and thoughtful styling, reminds us that elegance isn’t the absence of warmth — it’s the art of refining it.

D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 5 | C I TYL I FE STY L E . C O M / AT X

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THE SCENT OF JOY ARTICLE BY JULIE ROYCE PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF PINK FLAMINGO When Paola Vargas left her role as general manager at a Chicago candle company, she realized she was pouring her time into someone else’s dream.

Determined to create her own, she began experimenting with soy wax and fragrance oils from her kitchen table, testing wicks, adjusting scents and perfecting the craft of hand-poured candles.

“Every mistake was a lesson and every success felt like a little victory,” she said. “Each candle wasn’t just a product — it was a memory, a feeling, a moment of joy I wanted to share.”

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LOCA LLY SOU R CE D | SH OPPIN G

The result was Pink Flamingo Candle, a brand that embraces individuality, faith and fun.

“Flamingos are bold, joyful and a little quirky,” Vargas said. “I wanted my brand to capture that.”

Working alongside her sister, she began designing distinctive tins and playful labels that instantly set her candles apart on store shelves. Together, they created their unique brand that reflected both elegance and humor, sophistication and heart.

“From Ocean Stud, which transports you to a sunset stroll along the coast, to Smokin' Cowboy, evoking

Pink Flamingo Candle founder Paola Vargas turns everyday scents into joyful expressions of faith, artistry and holiday warmth freedom and adventure, every candle tells a story and celebrates life’s little pleasures,” she said.

Handcrafted in Austin, each soy candle is made with lead- and zinc-free wicks and fragrance blends without toxins and carcinogens, making them safe for both people and pets.

“We already live in a world full of chemicals,” she said. “I wanted Pink Flamingo to be different, a brand people could trust.”

This holiday season, favorites like White Christmas and A Vintage Christmas capture warmth, laughter and nostalgia.

“Scents create memories,” Vargas said. “One spark, one aroma, and suddenly you’re back in a moment you didn’t know you missed.”

The Gif t of Faith and Flame Autumn in the Park candle.

For Paola Vargas, candlelight represents both comfort and calling. Her Faith Collection, inspired by her Christian roots, carries messages of hope, grace and perseverance designed to uplift anyone who lights them.

“As a believer, I want my work to reflect light in every sense of the word,” she said. “It’s a way to share my faith through creativity.”

Now joined by her business partner James Kuntz, Vargas is focused on expanding Pink Flamingo Candle while preserving its handmade soul. Together, they aim to reach more hearts and homes — spreading warmth, beauty and faith, one handcrafted flame at a time.

Shop the full collection at pinkflamingocandle.com.

Classic Pink Flamingo candle.

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Holiday Spirits, Reimagined C E L E B R AT E T H E S E A S O N W I T H L A C A Z A’ S C R E AT I V E C O C K TA I L PA I R I N G S ARTICLE BY JULIE ROYCE | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF LA CAZA SPIRITS Shake up your season with two festive cocktails from La Caza Tequila. Each recipe showcases the brand’s smooth, oak-aged Reposado, demonstrating that tequila can be both elegant and unexpected — whether you’re in the mood for a bold espresso or a cozy holiday cream. These inventive recipes bring warmth and a touch of Texas spirit to every glass.

Reposado Espresso Martini

REPOSADO ESPRESSO MARTINI

A rich, aromatic twist on a coffeehouse favorite.

Ingredients: • 1.5–2 oz La Caza Reposado Tequila • ½ oz coffee liqueur • 1 shot freshly brewed espresso • ½ oz demerara syrup Directions: Shake ingredients vigorously with ice (or dry shake first for extra foam). Double strain into a chilled martini glass.

Garnish with three espresso beans or shaved chocolate.

MEXICAN SNOWFALL

A creamy, mint-kissed fireside sipping.

cocktail

perfect

for

Ingredients: • 1.5 oz La Caza Reposado Tequila • 4–6 oz eggnog • Crushed peppermint (for rim) • Agave nectar (to adhere rim) Directions: Rim a rocks glass with agave and crushed peppermint.

Add ice, pour in tequila and top with eggnog. Stir gently to combine.

For more festive recipes, be sure to check out La Caza's website at https://lacazaspirits.com/.

Mexican Snowfall

About La Caza Tequila Founded in Austin and crafted in Jalisco, Mexico, La Caza Spirits crafts small-batch tequilas that honor the artistry of agave. Their Reposado, aged to perfection for a smooth, caramel-oak balance, is the soul of both featured cocktails. The brand celebrates community, craftsmanship, and creativity, bringing a refined Texas flair to every pour.

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C HE F ’S SE LE CT ION | FOOD + BE VE RAGE

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Winterizing your home. Photo by Christa Grover via Pexels.

WINTERIZING YOUR CENTRAL TEXAS HOME ARTICLE BY JULIE ROYCE

HELPFUL TIPS TO STAY WARM AND PROTECTED

As Austin braces for cold snaps, homeowners are urged to take preventive measures now to guard against damage and higher utility bills.

While winters here tend to be mild, experts warn that severe freezes, such as Winter Storm Uri, can hit unexpectedly, catching residents unprepared.

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H OW TO | HO ME + DES I GN

INSPECT AND MAINTAIN YOUR HOME’S SHELL

01 Roof preparation. Photo by Ryan Stephens via Pexels.

Start with the exterior: trim branches hanging over the roof and clear gutters to prevent ice dams or blockages.

Examine your roof for damaged or missing shingles, and make repairs as needed to prevent leaks.

As James Kuntz, founder of Tarrytown Roofing, reminds homeowners, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”— especially when winter storms send branches crashing down. Have a trusted roofer ready before you need one, not after. Seal cracks or gaps around windows, doors, and siding to keep the cold out.

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PROTECT PLUMBING AND HEATING SYSTEMS Insulate water pipes and lines in unheated areas such as attics, garages, or crawl spaces. Drain exterior faucets, detach hoses, and insulate to avoid freezing. Turn off and drain irrigation and sprinkler systems. When freezing weather arrives, open cabinet doors under sinks to let warm air circulate, and consider letting a faucet drip slowly to relieve pressure and prevent pipes from freezing.

Plumbing maintenance and protection.

Photo by Heiko Ruth via Pexels.

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KNOW YOUR WATER SHUTOFF AND EMERGENCY STEPS Locate the home’s main shutoff valve so it can be accessed in a crisis. In Austin’s utility service area, the shutoff is often on the homeowner’s side of the water meter, inside the meter box. If a freeze causes blocked or broken pipes, thaw slowly — using warm (not boiling) water or gentle heat — and never use open flames.

Locate your water meter. Photo

by Ian Panelo via Pexels.

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SET A SAFER TEMPERATURE AND PLAN FOR TRAVEL If leaving town during cold spells, shut off the water at the meter and set the interior thermostat to at least 65°F to prevent freezing. During extended outages, Austin Water advises stopping faucet drips and turning off water until the supply is restored.

By taking these simple precautions now, Austin homeowners can reduce the risk of costly damage, water loss, and dangerous conditions when cold weather arrives, and enjoy greater peace of mind knowing their home is protected and prepared for whatever winter brings.

Properly set your home thermostat.

Photo by Curtis Adams via Pexels.

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COASTAL CHEER AT Cinnamon Shore

If you’re in Austin and dreaming of a warm-weather holiday escape, Cinnamon Shore in Port Aransas offers the perfect seaside celebration. Just a few hours’ drive from the city, this charming coastal community transforms into a holiday wonderland filled with twinkling lights, coastal décor, and cheerful events for the whole family.

The highlight of the season is “Shimmer at the Shore,” when palm trees glow with Christmas lights, festive garlands drape the walkways, and Town Center hosts Santa’s arrival along with the dazzling lighted boat parade and spectacular drone show on December 14.

Guests can enjoy beach bonfires, festive movie nights, and a cozy, small-town feel that captures the magic of the holidays — Texas-style.

A guest recently shared that they “love staying at Cinnamon Shores. Great rooms, wonderful grounds and amenities… Easy access to the beach and downtown.”

Whether you’re sipping cocoa on your balcony, strolling the beach at sunset, or gathering for holiday dinners in a coastal-chic home, Cinnamon Shore brings the spirit of the season to the Gulf.

It’s a quick, joy-filled getaway from Austin that feels like Christmas in paradise.

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T R AV E L J OU R N A L | TRAV E L

HOME FOR THE H O L I D AY S Guests of Cinnamon Shore can tour beautifully-styled beach homes all decked out for the season. These festive designs will showcase the signature style that sets Cinnamon Shore apart on the Texas Coast.

Saturday, December 6 through Sunday, December 7, 2025.

Vacationers can enjoy 10% off a two-night stay.

Contact vacationplanning@ cinnamonshore.com for more information.

ARTICLE BY JULIE ROYCE PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF CINNAMON SHORE

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