Introducing “Westly”, a striking architectural masterpiece by Mirikeen Homes, set in the coveted Rosepoint community with convenient shared waterfront access. A masterful layout with flexible living spaces and a fully appointed 1-bedroom detached ADU. MLS 2432526
Gather & Give Thanks
Dear Bellevue,
As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, I am reminded of how much there is to be thankful for in our incredible community. This month, we celebrate gratitude in all its forms, from the meals that bring us together to the people and places that make Bellevue feel like home.
Inside this issue, you’ll discover inspiration to make this Thanksgiving one to remember. Local chef Bobby Moore shares his favorite dishes to elevate your holiday table, recipes meant to be savored with family and friends. For those who love to host, event planner Kayla Cook offers elegant tips for “gathering in style,” from stunning table designs to effortless hosting hacks.
We also asked our neighbors to share what they’re most thankful for this season, and their heartfelt words are sure to inspire your own reflections of gratitude. And because Bellevue is always evolving, our cover story spotlights Project Enatai , the latest masterpiece from a local luxury custom home builder, a true showcase of craftsmanship and design that makes Bellevue living so special.
For me, this issue is a beautiful reminder that gratitude is transformative. It turns a simple meal into a feast, a house into a home, and a neighborhood into a connected, thriving community. As you turn these pages, I hope you take a moment to pause and appreciate the beauty, creativity, and connection that surrounds us.
From my table to yours, wishing you a season filled with warmth, gratitude, and joy.
Warmly,
TAYLOR ROBINSON, PUBLISHER @BELLEVUELIFESTYLE
November 2025
PUBLISHER
Taylor Robinson | taylor.robinson@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Kayla Cook, Bobby and Michelle Moore
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Anton Benedikt of AB Photo & Video, Life N Light
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall
LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
Enatai’
Alair Kirkland
city scene
Grand Opening of Primo’s in Bellevue 1: Gary Grossblatt, Claire Sumadiwirya, Jared Nieuwenhuis, Juan “Primo”, Chris Harris, Tye Ward, Hannah Grossblatt, Chuck Wang. 2: Primo’s Bellevue marked its September opening with a ribbon-cutting alongside the Bellevue Chamber, city council, and local supporters. 3: With French-Asian fusion, prime downtown location, and late-night hours, Primo’s is Bellevue’s next hot spot. 5: All smiles as Primo’s opens their doors to the public. 6: The team behind Primo’s Bellevue. 7: Councilmember Nieuwenhuis and Chris Harris discuss opening process, future plans, and enjoy the ribbon-cutting celebration. Photography by Bellevue Chamber
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TedXPineLake Youth Event: The Real Me 8: TEDx Organizer Tushar Gupta opened with “The Real Me” at Meydenbauer Center, inspiring the audience with authenticity and vision. 9: A joyful group shot of TEDxPineLake Youth speakers and organizer, celebrating inspiration, collaboration, and shared stories. 10: Organizer Tushar Gupta with Claire Sumadiwirya, Bellden Café owner and proud sponsor of TEDxPineLake Youth. 11: Tanji Johnson Bridgeman and Gaurangi Gupta led a dynamic fireside chat with organizers and coach speakers. 12: Organizer Tushar Gupta with Tanji Johnson Bridgeman, inspiring emcee who brought energy and elegance to TEDxPineLake Youth. 13: Olivia Henaire and Karys Fan shine after their TEDx talk, inspiring the audience with powerful ideas. 14: Rooted in real, rising with courage, Riana Kumar’s TEDx journey inspires a generation to dream big.
NOVEMBER 2025
business monthly
A ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES
Snowflake Lane Returns for its Cheerful Nightly Parade
Celebrate the holiday season with Snowflake Lane at The Bellevue Collection. Returning for its 21st year, Snowflake Lane transforms downtown Bellevue into a winter wonderland each night from Black Friday through Christmas Eve. The magical parade includes falling snow, twinkling lights, festive floats, Toy Drummers, Jinglette Dancers and Santa himself! Visit Snowflake Lane this season to experience unforgettable fun and holiday joy with friends and family.
A New Chapter Begins at Ellis Esthetics
Ellis Esthetics Bellevue’s trusted destination for results-driven skincare and wellness, is excited to announce new ownership under Sandy Dosanjh. With a dedication to excellence and personalized care, Sandy is committed to continuing the spa’s reputation for innovative treatments, including painless Laser hair removal, SQT-Bio microneedling, microneedling and more. Clients can expect the same welcoming environment, expert team, and transformative results now guided by Sandy’s fresh vision to elevate confidence, beauty, and well-being in the Eastside community!
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Fall Harvest Awaits
Celebrate the season with Washington’s best fall harvest and flavors at the Bellevue Farmers Market Saturday Holiday Market on November 22nd from 10am-3pm! Complete your holiday meals with hearty squash and root veggies, pastured meats and wild-caught seafood, crisp apples and pears, and baked goods. And find handmade gifts amongst our artisan foods, jewelry, pottery, wood housewares and more! All while enjoying live music and staying warm with crafted beverages and ready-to-eat comfort foods. Learn more at bellevuefarmersmarket.org.
Photography Courtesy of the Bellevue Collection
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SUKOSHI: Redefining Asian Beauty Retail Through Culture, Community, and Experience
Sukoshi is Canada’s leader in Asian beauty, curating the most sought-after brands and creating immersive experiences that go beyond shopping. Femalefounded and community-driven, Sukoshi has grown from a single store to a cultural destination where beauty, lifestyle, and inclusivity meet. With bold expansion across North America, Sukoshi is shaping the future of retail and inspiring a new generation of beauty lovers.
A Global Celebration of Watermedia: NWWS 85th International Exhibition
Experience the power of watermedia at Northwest Watercolor Society’s 85th International Open Exhibition, November 8th through December 1st, 2025, at Yuan Ru Art Center in Bellevue. Juror Frank Eber hand-selected 80 extraordinary paintings from 527 submissions representing 36 states and 13 countries. Join us for the Artists’ Awards Reception on November 8th, 2-4 pm, as $14,000 in prizes are awarded and discover a stunning global showcase of creativity and expression. For more information visit nwws.org
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Holiday Ice Skating Returns to Downtown Bellevue
The Bellevue Downtown Ice Rink presented by Symetra returns November 21st–January 19th at Bellevue Downtown Park! Since 1997, this tradition has brought over 9,000 square feet of real ice, skate lessons, themed nights, and concessions to downtown. Whether you’re new to skating or a pro, it’s the perfect way to celebrate the season. Get tickets and season passes at bellevueicerink.com and create unforgettable holiday memories with friends and family.
Photography Courtesy of SUKOSHI
Photography Courtesy of BDA
“Together” by Svetlin Sofroniev from Sofia, Bulgaria; watercolor 16x16”
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A D U
TURNING BOLD DESIGN INTO TIMELESS NORTHWEST LIVING
ARTICLE BY TAYLOR ROBINSON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANTON BENEDIKT
VIDEO
Project Enatai embodies the innovation, precision, and design integrity that set Alair Kirkland apart.
Perched in Bellevue’s coveted Enatai neighborhood, this 7,950-square-foot residence is a masterclass in balancing bold design with timeless livability. Featuring five bedrooms and five and a half baths, the home unfolds with an effortless rhythm: grand yet grounded, sophisticated yet serene. Every line, material, and proportion was carefully considered, resulting in a residence that feels as connected to the Pacific Northwest landscape as it is to the people who live within it. Expansive windows frame panoramic water views, deepening the home’s connection to its surroundings.
For Alair Kirkland, Project Enatai was more than just a build; it was a defining moment. “Project Enatai was one of those rare projects that truly challenged and inspired us at every step,” the team shares. “From the scale and complexity of the build to the level of craftsmanship required, it demanded the absolute best from our team and our trade partners.” That challenge became an opportunity to raise the bar for what a custom home could be.
Tatami room
Working in close collaboration with Medici Architects, the team was brought in early to ensure that every design decision, from structural feasibility to the smallest interior detail, aligned with the vision. Open communication and a shared commitment to precision allowed the process to move seamlessly from concept to completion, preserving design intent at every stage while respecting budgets and constructability.
One of the home’s most captivating elements is its tatami room, a tranquil space that contrasts beautifully with the home’s soaring, light-filled volumes. Blending clean lines, natural wood, and soft geometry, it honors tradition while showcasing contemporary construction mastery, inviting moments of pause and reflection.
The kitchen, with its warm wood HENRYBUILT cabinetry and sculpted stone island accented in sleek black, is equally striking — a space where meticulous craftsmanship meets effortless functionality, creating a natural gathering place for family and friends.
The primary suite is a serene retreat, where sweeping water views and layered textures create a sense of quiet luxury, flowing seamlessly into the spa-like bathroom beyond.
After 32 months of meticulous planning and construction, the reward was more than architectural. Handing the keys to the homeowners and witnessing their first moments in the completed space was, as the team describes, “incredibly fulfilling.” For a project of this scale, patience and persistence were essential, as was a system built on clear communication and trust between all partners.
Project Enatai is more than an extraordinary home; it is a showcase of Alair Kirkland’s philosophy. By separating planning from construction, the firm sets accurate budgets and timelines and ensures that the client’s vision remains uncompromised from start to finish. The result is a home where every finish feels intentional, every space flows naturally, and every detail reflects the highest level of execution.
This project is both a milestone and a promise, a testament to what can be achieved when design integrity, craftsmanship, and collaboration converge. Project Enatai is not just a residence; it is a legacy, destined to inspire for years to come.
Explore more about Project Enatai and other custom builds at alairhomes.com/ Kirkland and mediciarchitects.com, and follow along on Instagram @alairkirkland and LinkedIn @Stacy Eakman, as Alair Kirkland shares stories, behind-the-scenes insights, and project features.
Primary bathroom
Primary bedroom
all — beautiful resort living paired Mountain town vibes. This intimate masterfully designed mountain rowhomes is just steps away from and social hub opening in 2026. locally flavored hangout, you can meet for lattes and lunches. Wine tasting Suncadia’s favorite amenities are fast access to hiking trails, kayaking alpine-inspired spa treatments and more. open. From the low $1 millions.
Think of a place where Saturday mornings begin with a warm latte and a familiar smile, where you can browse local goods, grab fresh pasta before a bike ride, or toast the evening with friends over wine. That’s the spirit of Suncadia Social, a retail and gathering hub designed to bring together the flavors, crafts, and energy of the Cascades. Here, shopkeepers, baristas, and artisans are more than purveyors; they’re neighbors who take pride in their craft and the good vibes they create. Every stop adds another layer of authenticity to mountain town living. And when the day winds down, home is just steps away. The Residences at Suncadia Social pair beautiful resort living with the easy, walkable lifestyle of a true community hub. Explore the community, then make it your own.
A Chef’s Thanksgiving
BELLEVUE’S OWN CHEF BOBBY MOORE BRINGS HIS FAMILY’S TABLE TO YOURS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY LIFE N LIGHT
For Chef and owner of Bis on Main Bobby Moore, Thanksgiving is about slowing down and savoring time with family. It’s one of his favorite holidays — a day spent in pajamas, basting the turkey with the parade on in the background, then cheering on their favorite football team with pie and full bellies. With grown children off at college and a busy restaurant to run, the tradition of staying home has become even more meaningful. Bobby’s two boys love to cook, and Lucas, the youngest, is the baker in the family. His chocolate bourbon pecan pie has become a holiday must, along with the family-favorite Turkey Leg Bread Pudding — so popular they now make a double batch just to have leftovers. This Thanksgiving, Chef Bobby shares a few of his favorite recipes so you can bring a taste of the Moore family’s table to yours. Bon Appétit!
Chef Bobby Moore
ingredients
• 3 each peeled, split and seeded Butternut squash
• 1 cup sherry wine
• 1 vanilla bean
• 3 carrots
• 3 celery stalks
• 1 onion, chopped
• ½ T. chili flakes
• ½ jalapeño, stemmed and split
• ½ bunch thyme
• 1 T. black peppercorn, crushed
• 2 bay leaves
• 3 cups Heavy Cream
• 1 stick unsalted butter
directions
1. Roast squash on sheet pan with parchment paper and ¼ cup of butter until edges have a medium dark caramelization. Deglaze squash with ½ cup sherry and roast until au sec.
2. In a large stainless steel plan, caramelize carrots, deglaze with water, add celery and onion and lightly caramelize. Deglaze with ½ cup of sherry and bring to a full boil.
3. Add sachet (chili flakes, jalapeño, thyme, peppercorn and bay leaves), roasted squash, vanilla bean (split and scraped), and 4 cups of water to pan. Add heavy cream, simmer until squash is tender enough to blend.
4. Remove sachet and vanilla pods. Blend soup in large blender until smooth, season with salt and white pepper.
BUTTERNUT SQUASH SOUP
SERVES 6
ingredients
• 1 - loaf potato bread (medium diced)
• 4 cups - heavy cream
• 4 - whole eggs
• 1/3 cup - chopped herbs (parsley, chives, thyme)
• 2 - medium yellow onions (caramelized)
• 4 - cloves garlic (finely chopped)
• 2 - turkey legs (roasted and chopped)
• Salt and pepper
directions
1. Whip cream and eggs together.
2. Combine all ingredients and mix together.
3. Spoon into baking dish
4. Bake for 20 minutes in a 350 degree oven or until golden brown and cooked through
TURKEY AND POTATO BREAD PUDDING
SERVES 6
ingredients
• 1 - 10 oz frozen pie dough (can be store bought)
• 4 tablespoons (2 oz) unsalted butter at room temperature
• 1 cup sugar
• 3 large eggs
• ¾ cup light corn syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons bourbon (we prefer Four Roses or Buffalo Trace)
• ½ cup bittersweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup pecan halves
directions
1. Soften pie dough at room temperature. Line a 9 inch pie pan with pastry if not already in pie pan. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
2. In a medium bowl, beat the butter on medium-low speed until soft and creamy. Gradually add the sugar, beating all the while. When the sugar is fully incorporated, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then add the corn syrup, vanilla, and salt. Beat well. Beat in the bourbon. The batter should be pale and fairly thin.
3. Remove the prepared pie plate from the refrigerator. Scatter the chocolate chips and pecans evenly over the base of the crust; then pour in the batter.
4. Bake for 35 to 45 minutes, checking every 5 minutes after the 30-minute mark. The filling will puff gently as it bakes. The pie is ready when the edges are firm, the top is deep brown, and the center seems set but jiggles ever so slightly. Transfer the pie to a wire rack to cool to room temperature. The filling will firm up as it cools.
5. Top with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream if desired.
ingredients
• Fresh bagels
• Variety of cream cheeses
• Smoked salmon
• Salmon lox
• Fresh berries
• Lemons
• Capers
• Sliced cucumber
• Sliced tomatoes
• Fresh dill sprigs
directions
1. Select and Prep Bagels: Choose a mix of fresh bagels, plain, everything, sesame, and whole grain for variety. Slice them in half so they’re easy to grab and toast if desired.
2. Choose Your Cream Cheeses: Offer a variety of plain, whipped, herb & chive, and maybe a flavored option like honey walnut or veggie. Transfer them to small bowls or ramekins for a pretty presentation.
3. Prepare the Proteins: Arrange smoked salmon, lox, or even prosciutto on a platter or board. Fan or roll slices so they’re easy to grab.
4. Add Fresh Produce & Garnishes: Slice lemons into wedges, thinly slice red onions, and add capers. Include sliced cucumber, sliced tomatoes, and fresh dill sprigs for extra freshness. Add fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries) for a pop of color and sweetness.
5. Assemble the Board: Start with cream cheese bowls as your anchors. Arrange bagels around them, then layer in salmon, produce, and berries. Fill small gaps with garnishes so the board looks full and abundant.
6. Make It Easy: Most ingredients can be purchased a day or two ahead and prepped in advance. Assemble the board the morning of Thanksgiving for a stress-free, oven-free breakfast.
7. Set Out Plates & Knives: Provide small plates, butter knives, and napkins nearby so guests can easily build their own bagel creations.
8. Serve & Enjoy: Place the board where guests can graze while enjoying coffee, mimosas, or pre-meal activities! The beauty of the bagel board is that it’s flexible, easy to customize for favorites, allergies, or what’s in season and approachable regardless of skill level.
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Dean Jones, President & CEO and Shannon Olcese, Vice President of Sales, Realogics Sotheby’s International Realty
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Experience the difference with us and inquire today."
— Dean Jones, CEO
Realogics Sotheby’s International Realty (RSIR) is a Northwestbased brokerage founded in 2010. RSIR is proudly aligned with the iconic Sotheby’s brand established in 1744. Not only do our real estate advisors go beyond transactions, they also curate meaningful lifestyles and deliver a client experience defined by excellence. As a brokerage, we empower real estate professionals who strive for more. Our real estate advisors consistently represent the highest average listing and sales values and volumes on both sides of closings and are among the highest producing agents compared to their peers
We offer bespoke support, a culture of collaboration, and a suite of powerful tools you won’t find anywhere else. To illustrate what makes RSIR different, we’ve identified 12 Advantages, which are the core pillars of our business designed to elevate our brand, support agent growth, and set our clients' listings apart in a competitive market.
•
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As autumn settles over Bellevue, gratitude feels especially present. It’s in the laughter shared around family tables, the pride of building something together, and the neighbors who make this city feel like home. This November, three local families reflect on the moments and milestones that fill their hearts with thanks. Their words remind us that gratitude is the quiet magic that turns everyday life into something extraordinary.
M ETOWNGRATITUDE
A HEARTFELT LOOK AT WHAT OUR COMMUNITY IS THANKFUL FOR THIS NOVEMBER
PHOTOGRAPHY AS NOTED
The Edgar’s
As a family, we feel so blessed to call Bellevue our home. We started Custom Concrete Northwest LLC together six years ago, but our proudest accomplishment will always be our three wonderful children. They keep us grounded, laughing, and grateful every single day. They are everything.
This season especially, we find ourselves reflecting on the things that matter most—our health, the love we share as a family, and the beautiful community we’re surrounded by. Bellevue has given us so much more than just a place to live; it has given us friendships, opportunities, and the sense of belonging we’ve always hoped for.
Running a small, family-owned business comes with plenty of challenges, but it has also brought us countless blessings. We are thankful for every client who has trusted us, every neighbor who has supported us, and every moment we’ve been able to grow both as a family and as part of this community.
More than anything, we are grateful for the little things—cheering on our kids’ activities, exploring the outdoors together, and enjoying simple family dinners at the end of a long day. Our hearts are full, and we’re so thankful for the roots we’re building here in Bellevue.
Photography by: @VanessaAriasPhotography
The Schreiner’s
This Thanksgiving, our family is grateful for the everyday things that make life feel full. The boys love their school - learning Spanish, playing soccer at recess, and coming home with wild stories that keep us laughing. We’re thankful for friends and neighbors who feel like family and show up for each other in big and small ways. And we love living in a place where we can hike, bike, and explore the outdoors together. When we stop and look around, we feel so lucky and inspired to give back to the community that gives us so much.
Photography by: Lena Plotnikova
The Willis’
This Thanksgiving, our hearts are overflowing with gratitude for the simple yet priceless blessings that surround us every day. We are thankful for family—the laughter of our children, the wisdom of our mothers, and the joy of having multiple generations gathered under one roof. We’re grateful for health, the warmth of our home, and the love that connects us no matter how busy life becomes. Our little ones remind us daily to slow down and savor the present, while our pups bring unconditional love and companionship. Living in Bellevue, we also appreciate the vibrant community, the beautiful homes we get to share with our loved ones, and the privilege of helping others find their own place to call home. This season, we celebrate togetherness, love, and the many ways we get to grow as a family—both personally and in the spaces we create for others.
Give the gift of warmth
From the perfect hot tub pad to a patio made for holiday gatherings, great concrete work brings people together. With the peace of mind that comes from solid craftsmanship, you’ll have a space that feels welcoming, lasting, and built just for you.
This year, make spirits bright — and bubbles warmer.
Gather in Style
THANKSGIVING TABLESCAPE INSPIRATION FOR A WARM, INVITING CELEBRATION
ARTICLE BY KAYLA COOK | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LIFE N LIGHT
This Thanksgiving, I’m embracing a tablescape that feels warm, calm, and inviting. I love blending handmade and thoughtfully curated pieces with moody color tones and natural greenery. The mix creates a beautiful sense of balance—rich in texture, layered in meaning, and perfect for gathering around. As you plan your own celebration, may your table become a place of togetherness and joy— wishing you a Thanksgiving filled with warmth, beauty, and meaningful connection.
— Kayla Cook, Owner & Lead Planner, Kayla Cook Events
CONTINUED >
2. Nature-Inspired Details
Bring your table to life with moody, seasonal florals that complement your color scheme. I love highlighting a few rich tones and mixing in fresh, seasonal greens to add depth and texture. Think foraged branches, hydrangeas, zinnias, and dahlias—these natural elements breathe life into the arrangement, adding freshness and organic charm. For an extra layer of interest, I like to tuck in seasonal fruits and nuts alongside the florals. They not only tie the whole look together but also add a playful, edible touch that guests always enjoy. Florals by Nadira Design.
1. Earthy & Grounding Color Palettes
This fall, embrace a modern yet grounded color palette with rich, transitional tones—think rusty orange, mossy green, and shades of brown and subtle tones of yellow. These earthy hues bring warmth and depth to your table, capturing the essence of the season with effortless style.
3. Festive Sips
Nothing sparks good conversation quite like a signature cocktail (or mocktail!). This season, I’m serving Apple Cider Mimosas—festive, cozy, and always a crowd favorite. It’s a simple yet memorable way to set the tone and bring everyone together from the very first sip.
Apple Cider Mimosas Ingredients:
• 2 oz vodka
• Dash of cinnamon and nutmeg
• Splash of apple cider
• Chilled Prosecco
• Sugar & cinnamon mix (for rimming the glass)
Instructions:
1. Rim your glass with the sugar and cinnamon mix.
2. In a shaker filled with ice, combine vodka, cinnamon, nutmeg, and apple cider. Shake well.
3. Strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
4. Top with chilled Prosecco.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy! CONTINUED >
4. Handmade & Curated Touches
Celebrate the beauty of craftsmanship with artisanal stoneware, recycled paper goods, and vintage-inspired glassware. Layer in character and texture using dried fruits, nuts, and foraged elements—perfect for creating a naturally styled, effortlessly elegant look.
5. Layered Textures
Create depth and visual interest by layering soft linens with woven runners, patterned textiles, and candles in varying heights. Mixing materials adds warmth and dimension, giving your table a thoughtfully curated and cozy feel that invites guests to linger. Napkins by Set The Table Home.
6. Personal Touches & Conversation Starters
Set the tone for meaningful connection with gratitude cards or handwritten notes at each place setting. Encourage guests to share what they’re thankful for—it’s a simple, heartfelt gesture that adds depth to the gathering and invites warmth, reflection, and conversation.
H O P E
Begins with YOU A SEASON TO SEE THE UNSEEN
The holidays have a way of calling us back to what matters most—faith, family, compassion, and the quiet but powerful act of giving. As lights go up and calendars fill, there are still many who sit in silence, carrying burdens too heavy to bear alone. But what if this season, you could be the spark that changes everything for someone else?
The founders of City Lifestyle, through their private foundation, are once again launching its annual Christmas Giving Campaign—a heartfelt effort to seek out and support individuals and families who have quietly fallen through the cracks. The mission is simple: to bring light, dignity, and hope to those who need it most.
Since its beginning just four years ago, this initiative has grown from a humble idea into a life-changing movement. Last Christmas alone, more than 200 families across the country received unexpected support—financial relief, but also something even more powerful.
“We don’t just send checks,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “We send a message: You are seen. You are loved. And you are not forgotten.”
Together with City Lifestyle President Matthew Perry, Steven has helped shape this into a tradition that goes far beyond charity. “This is about community,” Matthew adds. “We believe we’ve been blessed, so now we get to be a blessing.”
Every story begins with a nomination. Often, it’s a neighbor, coworker, friend, or teacher—someone who’s been quietly carrying too much for too long. One past recipient, after receiving unexpected support during a time of deep personal struggle, wrote:
SCAN TO NOMINATE
“We send a message: You are seen. You are loved. And you are not forgotten.”
“Beyond the very practical solution of receiving funds to fix my car, this thing you guys worked together to do is bigger than that. I carry the Christmas card you sent in my purse. When things get really hard, I pull it out and remember what it felt like to be seen. That card represents hope— that change for the better is possible. I’m not sure how many people get to carry hope around in their purse. But I do.”
Another wrote in after her husband was diagnosed with aggressive brain cancer and unable to work:
“This support has blessed our family not only financially, but emotionally and spiritually as we trust God to meet our needs throughout this difficult time. Thank you to our anonymous friend and to your foundation. What a joy and gift to be part of God’s family!”
Each year brings countless stories like these—real lives touched by simple acts of kindness. Some use the funds to pay overdue bills, others to afford groceries, medication, or repairs. But no matter the circumstance, the impact is the same: hope is restored.
This season, you have the opportunity to be part of that. The campaign is now open to nominations—completely confidential and prayerfully considered. Whether it’s someone battling illness, facing unemployment, or just in need of a helping hand, you can bring them a moment of grace that will ripple far beyond Christmas morning.
“Knowing my mom was chosen filled my heart with indescribable joy,” said another past recipient. “Your generosity doesn’t just brighten her life; it inspires hope and faith in all of us. It enables her to stay in her home and get back on her feet.”
Nominations are open from November 1st to December 5th, 2025. To submit someone you know, simply scan the QR code or visit @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the nomination form in the bio.
This holiday season, let’s give more than gifts. Let’s give each other the gift of being seen. Because sometimes, the smallest gesture becomes someone’s greatest miracle.
To nominate someone in need, visit: KingdomBuildingFoundation.org or scan the QR code.
NOVEMBER 8TH
Newport Ski Swap
Newport High School | 10:00 AM
Gear up for winter at the 39th Annual Newport Ski Swap in Bellevue! Browse thousands of new and gently used skis, snowboards, boots, outerwear and accessories from local consignors and shops. Early-bird entry ($10/person or $20/family) Nov. 8th includes perks, while Sun Nov. 9th offers free admission. Proceeds support Newport High School’s educational programs. Find great deals, trade gear, hit the slopes smarter this season.
NOVEMBER 11TH
Eastside Veterans Day Ceremony
Sunset Hills Memorial Park | 11:00 AM
Honor and remember our nation’s heroes at Bellevue’s Eastside Veterans Day Ceremony. Gather at Sunset Hills Memorial Park for a moving tribute featuring bagpipes, the posting of colors, and heartfelt reflections from community leaders. This year also commemorates 50 years since the end of the Vietnam War and 250th birthdays of the US Army, US Marine Corps, and US Navy, a powerful moment of gratitude and unity.
NOVEMBER 14TH
The Sophia Way: Coming Home
Hilton Bellevue | 6:30 PM
Celebrate resilience at Coming Home, The Sophia Way’s inspiring evening of connection and purpose. Join us November 14th at Hilton Bellevue for live music, wine, small bites, and moving stories honoring the journeys of women moving from homelessness into housing. Host a table, bid on artwork, support safety and shelter—together we’ll open doors and renew hope. Purchase your tickets at sophiaway.org
Persimmon Design
H E A D S H O T S
CONTINUED
NOVEMBER 15TH
Festival of Trees Gala
Hyatt Regency Bellevue Grand Ballroom (2nd Floor) | 5:00 PM
Join Jubilee REACH for a magical evening of celebration, hope, and giving. The annual Festival of Trees Gala features a lively reception, wine pull, holiday photo booth, parade of professionally decorated trees, dinner, and an exciting live auction. Proceeds support Jubilee REACH programs serving families and children throughout the Bellevue community. Festive cocktail attire encouraged. To register visit jubileereach.org/festivaloftrees
NOVEMBER 16TH
Kirkland Turkey Trot
Juanita Beach Park | 9:00 AM
Lace up and join us for the Kirkland Turkey Trot, your favorite Thanksgiving Day tradition! Sprint, jog, or stroll through scenic Cross Kirkland Corridor on a choice of 5K, 10K, or half-marathon routes. Kids can enjoy a fun run too. A festive morning filled with community cheer, costume contests, local vendors, and post-race treats—perfect for families and friends to kick off the holiday together!
NOVEMBER 29TH
Garden d'Lights
Bellevue Botanical Garden | 4:30 PM
Garden d’Lights illuminates the Bellevue Botanical Garden from November 29th-December 31st, 2025, 4:30-9:30 pm nightly. Wander through over half a million sparkling lights shaped like plants, animals, birds, and waterfalls. Enjoy live musical performances, a family scavenger hunt, warm seasonal beverages, and gifts at the Trillium Store, all amid the magical glow of holiday lights!