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These Are a Few of Our Favorite Things

THE TRUE SPARKLE OF THE HOLIDAYS is found in the faces and smiles of those we cherish. As we look back over the past year and look forward to the new, we are grateful beyond measure for our family and friends. We wish you and yours a holiday season that shines with health, happiness, peace and joy. Merry Christmas and Happy Hanukkah. Your Friends at Alvin Goldfarb Jeweler. —Steven Goldfarb

A Season of Gratitude

The holiday season is upon us, bringing with it the joy, spirit of giving and celebratory moments that make this time of year so special! In our December issue of Bellevue Lifestyle, we embrace this warmth with our ‘Holidays & Giving’ theme. Inside, you’ll discover heartwarming stories of cherished holiday traditions from a few Bellevue families, creative ideas for your holiday soirées and a guide to December’s most exciting local events.

We’re also thrilled to spotlight the winners of our annual Best of Bellevue 2024 campaign that were chosen by YOU, our readers and community! These local favorites represent the heart and soul of our community, and we couldn’t be prouder to showcase the best of what Bellevue has to offer.

As we wrap up 2024, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to our wonderful readers and community for sharing another year with Bellevue Lifestyle. At the start of this year, I never imagined I’d be closing it out on the other side—as the magazine’s new owner! I’m incredibly grateful for this journey and truly excited for all that the new year holds. A sincere thank you to our talented contributors and dedicated team who bring each issue to life. As we head into 2025, please keep sharing your stories and ideas—we love hearing from you!

Happy holidays, and here’s to a joyful, healthy new year!

Warmest wishes,

TAYLOR ROBINSON, PUBLISHER @BELLEVUELIFESTYLE

December 2024

PUBLISHER

Taylor Robinson | taylor.robinson@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Nicolette Martin

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Alena Golubovich, Life N Light, Lauren Mitchell

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall

LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster

Your space is more than just a place to hang your hat. It is both a resource for today and an investment for your future. Whether that be a new construction, a remodel, or an ADU development, we strive to create a tailored plan to meet your needs. We look forward to working with you and developing your dream space.

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

The Bellevue Collection Fashion Week 1: Models strutted their Trend Takeover gift bags down the runway. 2: Models showcase fall trends fit to travel in style. 3: Model showcases chic look from Nordstrom. 4: Banana Republic showcases fall travel looks. 5: Model rocks all leather look at the Trend Takeover show. 6: The Trend Takeover Runway show offered looks fit for traveling in style. 7: Model flaunts florals and animal print from Ann Taylor. Photography by Vivian Hsu Photography

La Mar Bellevue’s Media Preview 9: La Mar is a celebration of the traditional Peruvian cebichería designed to take diners on a journey through the exquisite flavors of Peruvian cuisine, drawing inspiration from the sea. 10: La Mar Bellevue’s Executive Chef Kaoru Chang is a third-generation ‘Nikkei’ (Peruvian of Japanese heritage), sharing the diverse cultural influences of Peruvian cuisine at La Mar Bellevue. 12: The drink menu highlights local and Peruvian ingredients, with a special focus on pisco, the signature spirit of Peru. 13: Chef Gastón Acurio is a chef, writer, entrepreneur, and one of the most important promoters of Peruvian cuisine in the world. 14: In town from Lima, Peru, Chef Gastón Acurio signs cookbook for guests at La Mar Bellevue’s media preview.

Bellevue LifeSpring’s Uncork the Night 2024 15: Guests raised their paddles and collectively raised an incredible $405,000 to support Bellevue LifeSpring. 16: Uncork the Night features curated wine tastings from standout local wineries. 17: Event Emcee Kaci Aitchison and Auctioneer Matt Lorch bring incredible energy to the room! 18: Local leaders and philanthropists joined the event to help make a difference for Bellevue kids. 19: Local Chef John Howie was a special guest and donated some one-of-a-kind experiences! 20: Bellevue neighbors mix and mingle and enjoy coming together for a good cause. 21: Guest participates in one of the highlights of the night: Dessert Dash!

IBT Presents The Nutcracker: Celebrate The Holidays With a Century-Old Tradition

The International Ballet Theatre proudly presents its annual production of The Nutcracker in Bellevue, premiering December 6, 2024, at The Meydenbauer Theater. Based on the original 1892 choreography, this magical performance features former San Francisco Ballet Principal Dancer Ana Sophia Scheller as Clara and Lanier Gomez Noda, Principal Dancer with Nacional de Danza in Spain, as The Nutcracker Prince. Tickets are available at ibtbellevue. org. Bring the whole family to experience the wonder of dance!

Photography by Rex Tranter

Leavenworth’s Village of Lights: Christmastown, a Magical Month of Christmas Celebrations

The Bavarian Village of Leavenwo rth, Washington transforms itself into a magical snow globe for the Village of Lights: Christmastown starting November 29th and running through Christmas Eve, midweek and on weekends, celebrating the season with an eyepopping display of over half a million lights (which are on daily through February), hosting festive concerts and entertainment, holiday characters for your photo ops, strolling carolers, kids’ activities, roasting chestnuts, Santa photos and so much more! Visit https:// leavenworth.org/christmastown

Say Ahoy to the Holidays! Experience the Christmas Ship™ Festival

Argosy Cruises' annual Christmas Ship™ Festival returns for another joyous season! Enjoy a delightful 1.5hour sailing featuring festive drinks, enchanting holiday decor, and a visit from Santa, along with an onboard caroling performance. Kids can savor cookies with Santa during our 2 PM departures, while adults can enjoy an evening cruise at 8 PM with discounts on select drinks. Join us in spreading holiday cheer on the water. Cruises are available on select dates now through December 23rd—visit ArgosyCruises.com for tickets!

Magic

Find all the gifts you love to give and celebrate special moments at The Dining District. See the wonder of Snowflake Lane nightly at 7pm, November 29 – December 24.

NEW TO THE COLLECTION:

Aesop • Alo • Ann Taylor • Barnes & Noble

Beyond Yoga • Tom Bihn • David Yurman

FP Movement • Mahindra Jewellers

Marine Layer • Mejuri • Mirra • Mochinut

MOTO Pizza • Noir Lash Lounge

Shake Shack • Theo Chocolate • Vuori • Yezi

Free Covered Parking and Extended Holiday Hours

bellevuecollection.com

LO C A L HOLIDAYTRADITIONS

As the holiday season draws near, we can’t help but celebrate the unique family traditions that make this time of year so special. From festive meals and cherished rituals to new customs that bring loved ones together, these stories highlight the warmth and diversity of holiday experiences in our community. It’s a wonderful opportunity to honor the past while creating new memories. Join Bellevue Lifestyle as we dive into the heartfelt stories, delicious recipes, and meaningful moments that make the holidays so cherished for four Bellevue families.

ARTICLE BY TAYLOR ROBINSON | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF THE FAMILIES

The Zylstra’s

By Christy Zylstra

The sound of snow falling softly in the mountains, the chatter of voices in cozy packed restaurants, all come to mind when the words, “family tradition” comes to mind. One tradition that always remained is our annual Christmas Eve dinner. The buzz is in the air as the anticipation for Christmas comes to a head. The day moves slowly as we relish in the joy of the moment, while the feeling of what’s to come takes center stage. Making this special dinner is a full family activity, making Christmas cookies, & everyone pitches in. Some years every ingredient is thought through, while others we throw it together at the last minute. But the act of sitting around the table and eating dinner as a family remains. There is something about being around the table as a family, that feels so nostalgic. It takes something that you do so often, such as eating, and slows it down in a way where you feel as though time has stopped.

Photography: Lauren Mitchell

The Dubei’s

By Monica Dubei

Laurențiu and I are small business owners in Bellevue, WA—he runs Ideal Hardwood Floors, and I own Monica’s Ideal Design. This fall, we celebrated our seventh wedding anniversary with our two daughters, Adeline (4) and Katherine (3).

I was born and raised in Bellevue, while Laurențiu immigrated from Romania in 2015. We embrace both of our backgrounds and are deeply involved in our cultural church, especially during the holiday season. Christmas caroling is a central part of our celebrations, as we worship the birth of Jesus Christ. We sing carols in both English and Romanian, sharing the joy of the season with our community.

One of our most cherished traditions is organizing the annual senior citizens’ lunch at our church. It’s an event where we serve the elderly members of our congregation and honor their long-standing marriages. Their stories of love and dedication inspire us each year. For Laurențiu and me, it’s a beautiful way to serve together as a couple, while learning from those who have walked the path of life and marriage before us.

As our daughters grow, we hope to pass on these traditions, teaching them the importance of faith, family, and their cultural heritage.

Photography: Alena Golubovich

The Oliver’s

By Candace Oliver

Baby its cold outside! I LOVE this time of year! Cozy blankets, cuddling by the fireplace, watching movies, baking cookies, giving gifts, and celebrating Christ’s birth. This is such a reflective time of year that always brings life into perspective. There is SO much to be grateful for. Bryan and I are committed to cultivating a culture of contribution in our family. We want to impart in our kids the heart posture of “what do I currently have? and how can I use that to contribute to make the world a better place?”. Most often, the simplest gesture makes the MOST impact. Who doesn’t love a homemade cookie and a heartfelt handwritten card of encouragement? I have cookie recipes that have been passed down through the generations that ooze with melted chocolate and pure JOY! The cards we write are intentional with what the recipient has meant to us. We also include a word of encouragement for their year to come. Of course the cookies make my mouth water just thinking about them, but this tradition is more about slowing down, spending time with one another OFF our phones, and using what we have to spread love. What do I currently have that I can give to bring a positive impact to those around me? It’s always a cookie and prayer. Happy Holidays!

The Le’s

By Tammy Le

The holidays in our family are all about creating new traditions that blend fun and meaning. We love spending time creating with our hands— whether it’s mixing up Chex mix to share with friends or making salt dough ornaments to hang around the house. To slow down the holidays and enjoy our community, we go for drives in the neighborhood, admiring the twinkling lights. A couple of must-do traditions include visiting two Bellevue holiday favorites: Garden d’Lights at the Bellevue Botanical Garden, and Snowflake Lane in downtown Bellevue. The mix of these big and slow moments helps us embrace the magic of the season while trying to stay present with one another.

Thank you

VOTING DR. FREDRIC STERN

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And the Winners Are…..

Bellevue Lifestyle is honored to present this year’s group of “Best of Bellevue” winners that were chosen by YOU, our readers and community! To be a winner of “Best of Bellevue” is highly regarded because it represents genuine feedback from real consumers rather than expert reviews. These businesses and individuals were chosen because they are a pleasure to do business with, and they value their relationships with clients, customers, and patients. In other words, these winners represent the best of the best, having earned the trust and admiration of our community.

We appreciate everyone who took the time to cast their vote! The community plays a vital role in supporting the “Best of Bellevue” awards by actively participating in the voting process and spreading awareness. Whether it’s endorsing a favorite restaurant, vacation spot or service, collective support from the community adds value to the winners and encourages them to continue excelling in their fields.

There are plenty of tried-and-true community favorites on the list, as well as first time winners. We encourage you to try something new from this year’s winners, whether a fitness class, beauty service, or dining out with friends; there is something for everyone to check out!

cantinettausa.com/bellevue

SUSHI JAPONESSA SUSHI COCINA japonessa.com/japonessa-bellevue

bobbymoorerestaurants.com

BEST JUICE BAR MATCHA MAGIC itsmatchamagic.com

BEST WINE BAR BROWNE FAMILY VINEYARDS brownefamilyvineyards.com

BEST COCKTAIL BAR ROUGE COCKTAIL LOUNGE rougebellevue.com

BEST CATERER JOHN HOWIE CATERING johnhowiecatering.com

BEST SHOPPING THE BELLEVUE COLLECTION bellevuecollection.com

BEST CLOTHING BOUTIQUE SMITH & MAIN shopsmithandmain.com

BEST LUXURY AUTOMOTIVE AUDI BELLEVUE audibellevue.com

BEST NAIL SALON GENE JUAREZ SALONS AND SPAS genejuarez.com

BEST HAIR STYLIST JASON LEWIS AT LEWIS AU PARK lewisauparc.com

BEST HAIR SALON HOUSE OF HEBE SALON houseofhebe.com

At House of Hebe Salon, we believe in celebrating your unique beauty. Inspired by the goddess of everlasting youth and beauty, our welcoming space offers a range of services, from skin care to hair services. Our skilled team focuses on listening to your needs, creating a relaxing environment where you can truly unwind. Whether you’re looking for a subtle refresh or a complete transformation, we’re here to help you feel confident and radiant. Come experience the warmth of our community and leave feeling your best.

Goldfarb Jeweler | Yuan Spa | FLEUR

BEST FINE JEWELRY ALVIN GOLDFARB JEWELER agjeweler.com

Alvin Goldfarb Jeweler is Bellevue’s trusted luxury jewelry store. With over 40 years of experience, we offer exquisite timepieces and jewelry. Our commitment to personalized service, bespoke creations, and exceptional customer care sets us apart. Visit us for a truly exceptional experience.

BEST DAY SPA YUAN SPA yuanspa.com

Founded in 2011 by Zhiqin Zhang, Yuan Spa is a luxury day spa and tranquil urban retreat that believes optimal wellness comes from embracing the mind, body, and spirit. In Chinese, “Yuan” means “the source”, as in the source of understanding, wellness, energy, and Qi. With a full range of services including massage therapy, advanced skincare, body treatments, and healing hydrotherapy, Yuan Spa offers guests the ultimate self-care experience.

BEST ART GALLERY YUAN RU ART CENTER yuanru.gallery

Yuan Ru Art Center, established in 2022 by Dr. Julie Hsieh, presents international artists to the Pacific Northwest, as well as providing a platform for local contemporary artists to showcase their art. Welcome the community to visit our 5,000 square feet art gallery in the heart of BelRed Arts District.

BEST FLOWER SHOP FLEUR fleurstudio.co

Fleur is a luxury flower shop in Bellevue, specializing in exquisite floral designs for events, everyday moments, and personalized experiences. We offer floral workshops that inspire creativity, using high-quality, hand-selected blooms to create elegant, one-of-a-kind arrangements that elevate any occasion.

BEST HOME BUILDER

MN CUSTOM HOMES

mncustom.com

MN Custom Homes is the leading in-fill builder among Seattle’s Greater Eastside, crafting homes that reflect innovation, quality, and timeless design. Known for its commitment to the communities it serves, MN brings meaningful change through its support of local non-profits, Jubilee REACH and Imagine Housing. In addition to winning multiple “Best Places to Work” and back-toback “Builder of the Year” awards, the company also holds the “Best of Bellevue and Kirkland” accolades from City Lifestyle magazines. To learn more, visit mncustom.com.

BEST HOME REMODELER

LOCHWOOD LOZIER

lochwoodlozier.com

Lochwood Lozier Custom Homes has over 35 years of experience building luxury custom homes, extensive renovations, and landscape designs on Seattle’s Eastside. As a design-build firm, we offer a seamless, start-to-finish approach, handling everything from feasibility and architecture to interior design, construction, and home maintenance for our clients.

BEST ARCHITECT

BAYLIS ARCHITECTS

baylisarchitects.com

Baylis Architects designs exceptional spaces for businesses, families, and the public. In every project, we find opportunities to build strong relationships. The firm’s diverse portfolio includes community buildings, medical facilities, commercial buildings and retail spaces, multi-family residences, and custom homes.

BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT

ANNA RILEY westbellevue.com

Anna and her partner, Denise Niles, comprise West Bellevue Partners. They have successfully listed and acquired landmark properties from first time home purchases to $38 million-dollar iconic waterfront estates. Their incredible work ethic, in depth market expertise, integrity, sheer enthusiasm and passion for their clients is an unstoppable force, leading to exceptional results.

BEST REAL ESTATE AGENCY REALOGICS SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY rsir.com

Realogics Sotheby’s International Realty is honored to win “Best of Bellevue” for real estate brokerage, thanks to our incredible brokers. Their dedication, combined with our global reach, makes a real impact in the community. Our Bellevue office, alongside Jocovine Bistro, continues to elevate real estate and lifestyle experiences on Old Main Street.

BEST INTERIOR DESIGNER HEISER DESIGNS heiserdesigns.com

Heiser Designs is a boutique interior design firm founded by Brittney Heiser. Serving Bellevue and the Eastside, our designs are a fusion of livability, luxury and comfort. We create inspiring spaces that are a reflection of our clients unique personality and style.

BEST MORTGAGE BROKER PHILLIP BOOS

BEST LANDSCAPE SERVICES BROOKSTONE LANDSCAPE AND DESIGN brookstonelandscapes.com

BEST LANDSCAPE DESIGNER KENNETH PHILP LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS kennethphilp.com

BEST APPLIANCE STORE ARNOLD’S APPLIANCE STORE arnoldsappliance.com

BEST HOME DECOR AND FURNISHINGS SELDENS seldens.com

BEST LUXURY APARTMENTS THE BRAVERN thebravernapts.com

BEST RETIREMENT COMMUNITY AEGIS LIVING aegisliving.com

BEST FITNESS INSTRUCTOR

KATIE WALLIS OF

PURE BARRE purebarre.com

Katie Wallis, proud owner of four Pure Barre locations, found her passion in barre after a career in dance and fitness. Since discovering Pure Barre in 2010, she has been dedicated to helping members across Bellevue, Kirkland, Mill Creek, and Lynnwood achieve their goals in an inspiring community.

BEST BOUTIQUE FITNESS

PURE BARRE BELLEVUE purebarre.com/location/bellevue-wa

Pure Barre Bellevue offers an empowering fitness experience where strength meets fun! Our energizing, low-impact workouts are designed to enhance flexibility, build endurance, and tone your body—all in a motivating and supportive environment. Join our vibrant community, and discover how enjoyable it is to challenge yourself and achieve your best self!

BEST FITNESS CENTER

BELLEVUE CLUB bellevueclub.com

This year, the Bellevue Club celebrated 45 years as a wellness oasis for the Eastside community to sweat, dine, socialize and restore. With recent renovations and additions, including cutting-edge golf, cycling, and performance studios, they continue to bring the original vision to life.

BEST COSMETIC SURGEON

FREDRIC A. STERN, MD FACS, THE STERN CENTER FOR AESTHETICS

TheSternCenter.com

Dr. Fredric Stern, a renowned cosmetic surgeon in Bellevue, has been perfecting the art of facial rejuvenation for over 25 years. A graduate of Columbia University Medical School, Dr. Stern is a pioneer in the field, specializing in both surgical and non-surgical procedures. With a wealth of experience in procedures such as eyelid surgery, brow lifts, facelifts, and neck lifts, he is celebrated for his natural-looking results. His expertise in laser resurfacing and facial injectables ensures that his patients achieve a refreshed, youthful appearance while maintaining their natural aesthetic.

OPPOSITE PAGE: (Clockwise from top left) Katie

BOTTOM OF PAGE: Dr. Daniel Levy

BEST DERMATOLOGIST

DR. DANIEL LEVY OF LEVY AESTHETICS levyaesthetics.com

Levy Aesthetics is a high-end medical spa where advanced skincare and aesthetic treatments are performed by and under the supervision of board-certified Cosmetic Dermatologist, Dr. Daniel Levy.

Dr. Levy is the only doctor in Northwest who performs nonsurgical nose contouring and nonsurgical face lifting. He also offers the trademark LevyLean weight loss treatment. Attention to detail, privacy, and exceptional customer service define the Levy Aesthetics experience, which includes refreshments, relaxation lounges, and post-treatment care packages. The focus is on achieving optimal and natural results while providing a rejuvenating and pampering experience.

BOTTOM OF PAGE: Suncadia

BEST LOCAL GETAWAY

SUNCADIA

destinationhotels.com/suncadia-resort

Situated on 6,000+ acres of forested mountain landscape 80 miles east of Seattle on the sunny side of the Cascade Mountains, Washington’s premier all-seasons resort provides guests a home away from home, with unlimited recreational activities including river float trips; water sport, snowshoe and cross-country ski rentals; guided fly fishing; three championship golf courses; and 40+ miles of hiking and biking trails. Accommodations span traditional hotel suites to expansive vacation rental homes, and the destination offers several distinct dining options, including the Lodge’s newly opened flagship restaurant, The Source; the award-winning Glade Spring Spa, The Swim and Fitness Center; and Nelson Farm.

BEST HOTEL W BELLEVUE marriott.com/en-us/hotels/ bvuwh-w-bellevue

BEST FINANCIAL ADVISOR HIGHLAND WEALTH MANAGEMENT highlandwealth.net

BEST CREDIT UNION BECU becu.org

BEST PRIVATE SCHOOL ST. THOMAS SCHOOL stthomasschool.org

BEST DAY CARE PRIMROSE SCHOOL OF WEST BELLEVUE primroseschools.com/schools/ west-bellevue

BEST VETERINARIAN CAT & DOG CLINIC OF BELLEVUE catanddogclinicofbellevue.com

BEST PET STORE MUD BAY mudbay.com

BEST PET GROOMING BELLEVUE PET SPA bellevuepet-spa.com

Superior Senior Living in Bellevue

TWO BELLEVUE AEGIS LOCATIONS

Whether you prefer a serene urban oasis with a stunning solarium or the walkable charm of Old Bellevue near boutiques and Downtown Park, find your perfect home at our two Bellevue communities. Each offers its own unique personality while delivering the exceptional care, service, and lifestyle that defines Aegis Living. We'd love to show you around!

www.stthomasschool.org

SHAPPYHOLIDAYSHAPPYHOLIDAYSHAPPYHOLIDAYSHAPPYHOLID

Persimmon Design

Interior Design and Landscape Design 425-736-5488 persimmon.design@outlook.com www.persimmon.design

We craft elegant spaces inspired by the unique stories of our clients!

WINTER’S REVEL

Your Guide To a Simple and Stylized End-of-the-Year Soirée

ARTICLE BY NICOLETTE MARTIN

Following closely on the coattails of autumnal and winter holidays, the celebration of the new year can often be overlooked due to an understandable desire to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the season. But, a holiday that celebrates past memories and the opportunity for both new experiences and a fresh start shouldn’t lack any of the glitz of its celebratory predecessors. Round out the final days of the year reminiscing on or saying goodbye to the experiences—good and bad—of the previous 12 months with a simple end-ofthe-year gathering that isn’t lacking any of the glamour.

the drinks

Champagne has long been a traditional drink to toast to the new year. Keep it simple but step up your game with your own DIY Champagne cocktail bar. Consider stocking your bar full of custom Champagne or bubbly choices, festive mixers like cranberry juice or rosemary simple syrup and unique garnishes like fresh fruit and herbs or decorative ice cubes with edible flowers.

the decor

There’s no need to go out and buy a ton of additional decor when you just decked the halls (quite literally) with holiday ornamentation. Make those decorations work as hard as you did by repurposing all the greenery, pine cones and wood place settings you just couldn’t say no to. Throw in some neutral napkins, some natural twine and some dried orange peels for a woodsy (and fragrant) twist.

the snacks

Keep your guests happy with the perfect cheese plate. Consider how many people you’ll be serving, whether you’ll be serving before or after dinner and what cheeses you’ll want to include. According to WineFolly.com , sparkling wines pair best with creamy, sticky cheeses due to the high acidity and carbonation.

WHAT YOU NEED

• Cheese board or serving plate

• Assortment of cheeses

We recommend Brie, Port Salut, Muenster, Camembert or Gruyere

PUTTING IT TOGETHER

Cheese is best served at room temperature, so be sure your cheese has time to rest prior to serving. Slice the cheeses and arrange artfully on your cheese board with labels for each. Consider providing separate serving knives for each cheese to avoid any mixing of flavors. Add any additional bites you’d like and enjoy!

the traditions

No matter where you are in the world when the clock strikes midnight, ring in the new year internationally by taking part in one of these worldly traditions.

+ SPAIN Spend Nochevieja (“old night”) at home watching the countdown on TV—you can party later! Are you in need of some luck for the upcoming year? Wearing red underwear for the night may give you some.

+ MEXICO Be sure to have lots of grapes on hand. Demonstrated by Spaniards as well, this tradition involves eating 12 grapes with every strike of the clock, symbolizing good luck for every month of the new year.

+ DENMARK Destroy your frustrations and start the year fresh by smashing unwanted glassware. Danish tradition calls for smashing plates on the doors of friends and loved ones around midnight, but we think you should probably save that part for when you’re actually in Denmark.

+ SCOTLAND Although its singing has become pretty standard worldwide, “Auld Lang Syne” originated in Scotland in 1788 as a poem by Robert Burns. Go ahead and make a cheat sheet for all your friends—we won’t judge.

Thank you so much to the Bellevue and Eastside community for this meaningful recognition. Denise and I are proud to say we have a combined total of 30 years and more than two billion dollars in sales helping our clients find their way home. We look forward to continuing to use our expertise and experience to help our clients and the community we love.

With gratitude,

BELLEVUE

MEDINA CLYDE HILL HUNTS POINT YARROW POINT KIRKLAND

Making Spirits

JOIN OUR MISSION TO SPREAD WARMTH AND COMPASSION BY NOMINATING SOMEONE WHO DESERVES A CHRISTMAS BLESSING

“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way.”

As the Christmas season approaches, we’re reminded of the power of community and kindness. This year, through City Lifestyle’s nonprofit, The Kingdom Building Foundation, we will help people who may be struggling quietly without the support they need. But we need your help to find them.

Over the past three years, this campaign has grown into something truly beautiful, touching the lives of more than 150 families nationwide last year alone. Each year, we’ve seen firsthand how generosity can bring relief, hope, and a renewed sense of faith in others.

One person we had the opportunity to help was an 11-year-old boy diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. After he had to undergo chemotherapy and surgery to remove his eye, his doctors recommended a prosthetic one, but insurance wouldn’t cover the cost, calling it “cosmetic.” When we heard his story, we knew we had to help. Because of this campaign, he got his prosthetic eye and a piece of his childhood back with it.

Another was a wife and mother of two who fought a yearlong health battle and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Just days before Christmas, she underwent surgery but passed away due to complications. Before her surgery, she received one of our cards and, in tears, told us this gift gave her some peace, knowing her family would have help in the difficult times ahead. It wasn’t just about the financial support but knowing that someone cared.

These stories remind us why this campaign is so meaningful. It’s not just

about writing checks; it’s about telling people they aren’t forgotten and that someone is there to lend a hand. It’s about giving families a moment of relief when the world feels unbearable.

“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”

Together with Matthew Perry, President, Steven adds that the gratitude from recipients was overwhelming, affirming this tradition’s importance. “We believe God has blessed our company with success,” Matthew adds, “so we want to be a blessing to others.”

We know many more people could use a little help this Christmas, and that’s where you come in. Do you know someone who could use a blessing? We want to hear about them.

To nominate someone, scan the QR code or follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the form in our bio. Nominations are open from November 27 to December 10, 2024. Let’s bring hope to those who need it most.

The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized. All entries will be read, and selections and the amount given to each recipient will be based on the severity of the need. For more information, visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.org

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

DECEMBER 1ST

Boy Scout Troop 626

Annual Tree Sale

Newport Hills Swim & Tennis Club 9:00 AM

Support local youth and find the perfect Christmas tree at Newport Hills Swim & Tennis Club! Since 1982, our Troop has been providing fresh trees while helping shape future leaders. Join us from Nov 29 to Dec 15 (or until sold out). Hours: WedFri: 5-8pm, Sat-Sun: 9am-8pm. Choose from a variety of 5-9 ft trees!

DECEMBER 1ST

Bellevue Downtown Ice Rink: A Holiday Tradition Returns

Bellevue Downtown Park | 10:00 AM

The Bellevue Downtown Ice Rink, presented by Symetra, returns from November 15 through January 12 at Bellevue Downtown Park. A holiday tradition since 1997, the rink offers over 9,000 square feet of real ice, skate lessons, themed nights, and on-site concessions. Get your tickets and season passes at bellevueicerink.com. Don’t miss this chance to create lasting holiday memories with friends and family!

DECEMBER 1ST

Enchant Christmas

T-Mobile Park

Enchant Christmas is an immersive holiday experience featuring the world's largest light maze, a magical ice skating trail, and a bustling Christmas market. Held in select cities, Enchant transforms venues into a winter wonderland filled with millions of twinkling lights, holiday music, and festive décor. Guests can explore the light maze, meet Santa, enjoy seasonal treats, shop for unique gifts, and create unforgettable holiday memories with family and friends.

DECEMBER 1ST

Celebrating 20 Years of Snowflake Lane

Downtown Bellevue | 7:00 PM

Experience the magic of Snowflake Lane in downtown Bellevue as it transforms into a winter wonderland! Celebrating its 20th anniversary, the iconic parade runs nightly from Black Friday to Christmas Eve, featuring nearly 200 performers, holiday floats, twinkling lights, and festive entertainment. Free and fun for all ages, it’s the perfect holiday tradition. Learn more at bellevuecollection.com/ snowflakelane/.

DECEMBER 5TH

Holiday Arts Fair at Bellevue Arts Museum

Bellevue Arts Museum | 4:00 PM

The Holiday Arts Fair invites the public to enjoy art and the spirit of the season in the Bellevue Arts Museum. The Fair takes place during the festive Snowflake Lane parade and gives families and visitors a place to experience the power of art as well as shop for unique, creative gifts. There will be artist tables, kids' activities, refreshments and exhibits that celebrate the season. Plan your visit at bellevuearts.org

DECEMBER 7TH

Winterfest 5k

Wilmot Gateway Park | 8:30 AM

The Winterfest 5K at Wilmot Gateway Park, is a festive, family-friendly race that takes runners through scenic routes filled with holiday cheer. Held annually during the holiday season, participants are encouraged to wear festive attire as they run or walk the 5K course. With post-race refreshments, holiday music, and awards, it’s a great way to kick off the season while staying active in the local community.