Issuu

5133 E. Oxford Avenue

CHERRY HILLS VILLAGE

NOT BORING.

Seasons of Love

As Valentine’s Day gets closer, Hallmark fills the radio waves; rose petals and tasting menus fill our minds, but when you take that all away, what is the most important? How we love each other.

When I was a little girl, I loved Valentine’s Day! Not because of a crush at school or collecting candy, but because, starting off my Valentine’s Day, my parents always had a Valentine’s card waiting by my lunch box, feeling like an extra big hug. And school that day was filled with classmates who were so open and willing to show each other that they care and love one another, not to select individuals, but to all. As an empathetic little kid (carried over into an empathetic big kid these days), this was the dream!

The spirit of loving all, not just a significant other, has carried on throughout the years for me, largely boosted by Parks and Recreation’s spreading the good word and creating the Galentine’s Day celebration phenomenon (Thank you, Leslie Knope!) and this year is no different. Now more than ever, I want to send hugs all around to my loved ones and tell them how much they mean to me because when you strip it all down, that’s what matters most.

KELSEY

HUFFER, EDITOR

@BOULDERLIFESTYLE

February 2025

PUBLISHER, SALES DIRECTOR

Andy Manz | amanz@citylifestyle.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Kate Manz | kmanz@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Chantel Ellerington | chantel.ellerington@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Kelsey Huffer | kelsey.huffer@citylifestyle.com

COPY EDITOR

Tony Firestine | anthonyjfirestine@gmail.com

INTERNS

Millie D'Souza | millie.dsouza@citylifestyle.com

Edson Graycar | edson.graycar@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Clarke Watson, Colin Gbolie, Millie D'Souza, Tony Firestine, Edson Graycar, Allyson Reedy

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Poppy and Co. by Kelsey Huffer, Sarah Plonk of SKP Ink, Scott Dressel-Martin, The Millennial Catalog Ltd.

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

COO Matthew Perry

CRO Jamie Pentz

CTO Ajay Krishnan

VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson

VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley

AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kirstan Lanier

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick

Proverbs 3:5-6

Photography by Tomas Demenis, DemenisPhotography.com

L E G E N D A R Y BY TOPHER STRAUS

“Legendary captures the thrill of Vail’s iconic Back Bowls, offering a vibrant new perspective on Colorado’s winter playground.” - Topher Straus

Topher Straus, a 4th-generation Coloradan, continues to make waves in the art world with his bold, dynamic interpretations of nature. His work, now featured at the stunning new Laws Whiskey Distillery and Bar in Denver, offers locals a unique way to experience his vibrant style in person.

Fresh from representing Colorado art at the renowned Miami Art Fairs, Straus unveils Legendary, his latest masterpiece inspired by the sweeping grandeur of Vail’s Back Bowls. The monumental Original immerses viewers in the exhilarating beauty of the Rockies’ most iconic ski terrain. Legendary captures the interplay of sunlight and shadow across pristine snow, evoking the adventure, elegance, and energy of Colorado winters

This breathtaking painting will also be available in Limited and Special edition sizes, making Legendary accessible to collectors and enthusiasts who want to bring the magic of Vail into their own spaces.

For art lovers in Boulder, Denver, and beyond, Straus’s work continues to connect people to the beauty of the Rocky Mountains while offering a fresh, modern take on its most beloved landscapes. Don’t miss the chance to own Legendary—a powerful tribute to Vail’s Back Bowls and the spirit of adventure that defines Colorado living.

www.topherstraus.com

business monthly

The Ramble Hotel Named Among Best Hotels in the World

The Ramble Hotel, the first hotel in Denver’s artistic and creative RiNo neighborhood, is named among the best hotels in the world by Fodor’s Travel’s 2025 Fodor’s Finest Hotel List. Handpicked by Fodor’s editors, the coveted list recognizes the most incredible hotels in the world, and Denver’s The Ramble Hotel is one of only 15 U.S. hotels—and the only one in Colorado—to receive the prestigious recognition.

YOUTH& BEAUTY

OCULOFACIAL PLASTIC SURGERY

At Colorado Eye Consultants, we are proud to offer oculofacial plastic surgery by ASOPRS fellowship trained & board-certified ophthalmologist, Dr. Carl Rebhun. With years of advanced training and dedication to his patients, Dr. Rebhun combines the latest surgical innovations with artistic precision to achieve natural, rejuvenating results.

WHY CHOOSE DR. CARL REBHUN?

EXTENSIVE TRAINING: ASOPRS fellowship trained and board-certified.

INNOVATIVE TECHNIQUES: Utilizes the latest and most innovative techniques.

EXCEPTIONAL CARE: Personalized consultation to meet your goals.

DUAL EXPERTISE: Specializes in both cosmetic & medical procedures. Call (303) 730-0404 to schedule your consultation today!

business monthly

Photography: Shawn O'Connor

Cedric and Ochi Vongerichten Debut Wayan Aspen

Opened in December 2024, Wayan Aspen marks the debut of Cedric and Ochi Vongerichten’s award-winning French Indonesian cuisine in the Rockies, blending the dynamic flavors of Southeast Asia with the unique charm of an Aspen chalet. Alongside signature Wayan dishes like lobster noodles and corn fritters, look for locally inspired creations like Colorado lamb satays and butterflied trout with sambal tomato sauce. The warm and welcoming atmosphere is complete with an open kitchen, crackling wood fire, and a transportive display of Indonesian and Balinese artwork.

6397 • Bite Studios • Brunello Cucinelli • Caruso • Ciizens of Humanity

Common Projects Corridor Dries Van Noten Eleventy Herno High Sport Incotex James Perse Khaite

Lisa Yang Luciano Barbera Mason’s Nili Lotan Pescarolo Plan C RRL The Row The Woods TWP Ulla Johnson

A Cozy Watering Hole Offering Hearty Meals, Premier Stouts, and a Friendly Atmosphere Perfect for February

inside & stout

“Stout month has become one of the busiest months of the year for Mountain Sun,” says GM Pat when regaling me on the virtues of the coming tradition of Stout Month in February. This tradition is a great way to keep the energy high during the cold months through house-brewed stouts from their Denver location that consolidated right before COVID. Additional guest beers and their tried and true pub fare are still in full effect for Stout Month (The burgers and fries are INCREDIBLE btw).

Last Stout Month, they did a bingo card where you cross off different squares by going through different beers, culminating in a grand prize at the end of the month. Look forward to similar games and happenings this February across their locations. Despite the general economic downturn the restaurant industry has seen, Mountain Sun continues to offer excellent value and experience to any and all patrons. The new happy hour two-pint pitcher for six bucks, burger and fries for ten bucks, and much more create a great incentive for a post-work/weekend reprieve.

Don’t drink? They have non-alcoholic beers canned and ready to enjoy as well! To those who haven’t been yet, Pat says, “Expect good service, friendly employees, and an overall relaxed atmosphere. Oh, and good beer!”

Owner Kevin says, “We’re really looking forward to Stout Month.” A staple at Mountain Sun started by Jack Harris, their first brewer, the year they opened 31 years ago. After having seen the industry unfold decades into the craft, Kevin has seen Stout Month become a phenomenon in the area. Mountain Sun was one of the first brewpubs to have 21 beers on tap and keep driving the craft forward. Stout Month sees the vast majority of their taps turn to various stouts, ensuring a favorite is found by all who participate. The team is really looking forward to Stout Month, a time of celebration and livening the cold months. With the reopened Vine Street Pub and Brewery, this year marks the first Stout Month on Vine Street since the pandemic. With people flying in from across the county and local fans ready to partake, it’s sure to be a festive celebration you don’t want to miss! Grab a stout at one of their locations this February and enjoy! To learn more, visit MountainSunPub.com

“Expect good service, friendly employees, and an overall relaxed atmosphere. Oh, and good beer!”

in it for the

LOVE FI RST KNIFE

ARTICLE BY CLARKE WATSON

PHOTOGRAPHY BY POPPY & CO.

BY KELSEY HUFFER

REKINDLE YOUR LOVE FOR COOKING THIS VALENTINE'S AT CARBON KNIFE CO

Years ago, when Tina Chon and Craig Field crossed paths in the heat of a professional kitchen, they had no idea their shared obsession with sharp tools would carve the path to a love story.

“In a kitchen full of busy chefs, we bonded over our preference of using Japanese knives,” Craig recalls fondly. “We both took sharpening seriously and somehow, that turned into an ongoing competition to see whose blades were sharpest!”

What started as a rivalry over precision quickly forged into a bond stronger than tempered steel, and the relentless “ding” of the kitchen’s call bell soon gave way to a chorus of wedding bells. As newlyweds, they dreamed of opening a restaurant together, envisioning a Korean tasting menu that would showcase their creativity. But in the early 2010s, Denver’s dining scene wasn’t quite ready to embrace their bold concept.

Undeterred, they turned back to what had brought them together in the first place: their shared passion for knives— especially the art of Japanese cutlery. That love became the spark for Carbon Knife Co, their thriving culinary haven nestled in the heart of the RiNo neighborhood.

Step into their storefront at 3151 Larimer Street, and the seemingly endless wall of handcrafted blades makes an undeniably sharp first impression. Look closer, though, and you’ll discover the real brilliance—a meticulously curated playground designed for chefs and culinary enthusiasts alike.

Lose yourself in their unrivaled collection of cookbooks, then wander into a pasta lover’s paradise, complete with all the tools, ingredients, and accoutrements you could dream of. Just around the corner, you’ll find cocktail essentials begging you to elevate your bar game and a pantry section stocked with gourmet dry goods that will have your mouth watering on the spot!

But the real showstoppers—undoubtedly—are the knives.

The store showcases some of the finest kitchen knives in the world, with over 90% of its collection originating from Japan. Featuring the craftsmanship of 40-50 renowned makers, Tina and Craig have made it their mission to personally connect with as many of the blacksmiths and artisans as possible. “That was a big thing for us—especially when we started—was having a bit of backbone and only selling things that we ourselves, as chefs, would rely on and use,” Craig shares. “That meant going straight to the source: knocking on doors, shaking hands, and meeting these incredible makers in Japan.”

While their collection is vast—with intricate blades of all shapes and sizes—Craig’s advice for chefs of all skill levels is to simplify their knife assortment. “People usually have a big block of 18 knives sitting on their countertop and only end up using two or three of them mainly,” he explains. “So our goal here is to minimalize; people really only need three to five knives max. Anything else, you’re just having fun.”

Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned professional, a visit to Carbon Knife Co is bound to spark your imagination and set your taste buds dancing. As Denver's go-to spot for top-tier cooking tools, you might even find yourself rubbing elbows with a local celebrity chef on the hunt for their next blade. Time your visit just right, and you could meet one of the knife makers in person. With sharpening classes, meet-and-greets, and knife-making events, there's always something cooking at Carbon Knife Co!

Regardless of your relationship status this Valentine’s season, it’s never a bad idea (or too late) to fall in love with cooking. And if Tina and Craig’s love story teaches us anything, it’s this: stay sharp, and you might end up with a chef’s kiss.

To learn more, visit CarbonKnifeCo.com

Flying High, Staying Grounded

Flylow’s 20-Year Journey Revolutionizing Mountain Gear and Apparel

ARTICLE BY TONY FIRESTINE PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF FLYLOW GEAR

Twenty years ago, on a snowy mountainside, Dan Abrams and Greg Steen envisioned something different. Frustrated by the limitations of existing ski gear, the two college friends and Colorado natives asked a bold question: Why can’t there be ski clothes that do it all? This simple yet ambitious idea led to the birth of Flylow, a company now synonymous with durable, versatile, and stylish gear for both hardcore mountain enthusiasts and everyday adventurers.

Flylow’s origin story is as authentic as the brand itself. Abrams and Steen were just a couple of telemark skiers who couldn’t find pants that worked for both resort skiing and backcountry. Mountaineering gear was lacking in style, ski resort gear didn’t last, and nothing else had the fit they wanted. The turning point came when a French skier on the slopes remarked, “You don’t ski fast—you fly low.” With that, Flylow’s name and mission were cemented to create gear with function, purpose, and style.

In 2005, Flylow launched its first products, quickly gaining a cult following among skiers who appreciated their durability and thoughtful design. Over the years, Flylow’s product line has expanded to include award-winning men’s and women’s outerwear, clothing, and accessories for every mountain season.

Co-founder Dan Abrams credits patience as a key lesson from the early years. The beginning of Flylow coincided with the financial

crisis, which Abrams considered an asset that forced them to grow the brand slowly and methodically. “When you start a company, there are so many things you want to do, but there are just as many things you can’t do,” says Abrams. “You have to be patient and understand that taking one step at a time is good enough.”

Even as Flylow has scaled, the company’s grassroots authenticity has remained intact. The ethos is still profoundly based in the love of skiing. “The reality is we still have chairlift meetings,” Abrams says. “We’re still doing it on the chair lift and on the skin track. We design clothes in Tahoe City and Truckee. Our hometowns are in the Pacific Northwest, Crystal Mountain. We have a crew that runs our website in Jackson, Wyoming, and Denver is where our warehouse and customer service is…We design gear in the mountains, and we test it ourselves.”

Flylow’s design philosophy, rooted in real-world needs, results in Innovations like cross-flow venting, which keeps skiers dry during intense climbs and descents, and durable, repairable fabrics that extend the life of every piece. “For the everyday adventurers, we make gear that will keep you warm, like our Albert and Avery jackets,” explains Abrams. “The inspiration for those was really technical. We wanted to do a very lightweight packable synthetic micro puff for Backcountry skiing but put a light, stretchy,

“We’re

all like-minded. We’re all trying to own our time …a lot of times, you’ll find me punching the keys from 8:00 at night to midnight because it’s snowing, the kids are asleep, and I’m going skiing

the next day. You work hard and play hard.”

waterproof shell on it so you could eliminate two jackets with one…It’s about durability, versatility, and sustainability.”

In 2016, Flylow expanded its offerings beyond skiing to include spring and summer gear for mountain biking, wake surfing, and lifestyle apparel. By blending technical performance with everyday utility, Flylow has built a loyal following among hardcore athletes and casual adventurers alike.

For Flylow, sustainability and community are more than buzzwords—they’re guiding principles. The company’s commitment to sustainability includes using 80% recycled fabrics, durable water repellents without harmful and toxic chemicals, and cruelty-free down. Flylow’s circularity program, Flylow Leftover Land, in partnership with Geartrade, keeps gear out of landfills by repairing and reselling used products. With this program, Flylow’s devoted fanbase can also trade in their well-worn gear for credit toward something new.

One of Flylow’s most impactful initiatives is The Good Lab, a program that helps non-profits design, manufacture, and sell custom gear to support their causes. “We don’t have as much

money as the larger brands...but what we do have is a small, nimble team that cares,” says Abrams. Partnerships include the High Fives Foundation, Protect Our Winters, and local avalanche centers, among many others.

As Flylow celebrates its 20th anniversary, the company is far from slowing down. Recent innovations include an exciting partnership with GORE-TEX and the expansion of mountain lifestyle apparel and mountain biking gear.

Through it all, the Flylow team remains grounded in the mountains where it began, based on strong collaboration and cohesion.

“We’re all like-minded,” says Abrams. “We’re all trying to own our time …a lot of times, you’ll find me punching the keys from 8:00 at night to midnight because it’s snowing, the kids are asleep, and I’m going skiing the next day. You work hard and play hard.”

For co-founders Abrams and Steen, it’s still about the same dream they had 20 years ago and sharing it with the rest of the Flylow team: making innovative, stylish, and versatile gear that lets outdoor adventurers fly low and live high.

To learn more, visit FlylowGear.com

HEART AND SOUL OF FIVE POINTS

Like any family, Welton Street Café has its own unique history, full of drama, highs, lows, and love.

Definitely love.

There’s the love that the Dickerson family puts into each and every Southern Caribbean dish they serve, the love diners receive simply by entering the vibrant restaurant and then there’s the love that’s given right back to them by the community they feed.

Welton Street Café has been a Five Points staple since 1986, but it’s been a tumultuous journey. Most people probably best know the restaurant’s last location on 27th and Welton Streets, where it served their Denver-famous fried chicken, wings, smothered pork chops, and mac and cheese for almost 23 years before lease issues forced them to find a new home. They found it a block or so up, but moving into the new space took a lot of time, energy, and tears.

“When you open and close a restaurant over a few years, you feel every emotion,” says Fathima Dickerson, one of six members of her family who co-own the restaurant together. “My family, we’re grateful to remain on Welton Street. We’re extremely grateful to continue serving this community, but it’s still mixed emotions. Trying to settle into the new place, after having been somewhere all those years—it was like our home.”

Now, after being closed for nearly three years to get everything up and running in the new space, Welton Street Café is back. Besides being the restaurant’s largest location, it’s also the most colorful, with a showstopping mural starring Ms.

Mona, Fathima’s mother and heart and soul of the Café, along with her native St. Thomas.

This location also has a large bar, a first for the restaurant, which means you can wash down your jerk chicken with a hibiscus margarita or jungle bird cocktail. But the bar isn’t the focus, Fathima insists; it’s still all about that welcoming family atmosphere. “The bar is an accessory to the outfit,” she says. For sure, most people

ARTICLE BY ALLYSON REEDY PHOTOGRAPHY BY POPPY & CO. BY KELSEY HUFFER

are returning to the restaurant for the family recipes they’ve long loved. It’s that Southern soul food with a Caribbean twist, where the comforting plates of fried shrimp and black beans and rice taste even better because of the welcoming hospitality.

“The regulars love that they just get to be in community,” Fathima says. “They’re super excited, and they love the space. They’re bringing their families, all generations, and that is beautiful.”

The regulars are loving it so much, in fact, that it can be hard to get a table. While Welton Street Café does accept walk-ins, it’s first come, first serve, and here’s the thing about a family restaurant— it’s not just one family member stopping by; it’s the whole household. So yeah, it’s best to plan ahead and make a reservation.

Like every family, the Welton Street Café tribe has experienced heartbreak and trauma, but at their new location, you also feel hope and love. Always the love.

WELTON STREET CAFÉ

2883 Welton St., Denver, 303-296-6602 WeltonStreetCafe.com

home within

Wellness based interiors by Joe McGuire Design ®

H o m e s t h a t s u p p o r t h e a l t h & w e l l b e i n g o n a l l l e v e l s

N o n - t o x i c f u r n i s h i n g s & n e x t - l e v e l w e l l n e s s f e a t u r e s

F u l l s e r v i c e i n t e r i o r d e s i g n & c o n s u l t i n g

joemcguiredesign com/homewithin

“We just completed a new build with Haley, and can’t recommend them enough. Their overall build process along with a dedicated site manager & project manager help ensure things go smoothly. The close coordination between the architect, builder, and subs allowed for an efficient build which took a lot of stress off my wife and I. As issues arose during construction they were handled quickly and fairly to keep things on track, and Dan and team continue to help resolve the inevitable remaining tweaks after move in. Would hire Haley again in a second!”

Nathan Lowe

CREATIVE DATE GUIDE VALENTINE’S

Photo

CANDLE-MAKING, A BRUNCH CLASS, AND MORE UNIQUE WAYS TO CELEBRATE

VALENTINE’S WHEEL WORKSHOP

DATE NIGHT AT FRIEND ASSEMBLY

When: February 14, 5:00 to 7:00 p.m

Where: Friend Assembly

This Valentine’s Day, let creativity take the wheel literally!Friend Assembly’s Wheel Workshop Date Night offers couples a unique and hands-on way to celebrate love. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pottery enthusiast, this fun and interactive evening allows participants to try their hand at the pottery wheel while enjoying a festive atmosphere.

This workshop includes step-by-step guidance in wheel throwing, ensuring everyone feels supported and can create their masterpieces. From centering the clay to shaping and refining, the experience is both educational and deeply satisfying. To make the night even sweeter, each couple will be treated to a glass of champagne, delicious chocolates, and a special surprise. With space for only 12 participants (6 couples), this intimate event is ideal for those seeking a memorable and creative Valentine’s alternative.

ARTICLE BY EDSON GRAYCAR

ORCHID SHOWCASE AT DENVER BOTANIC GARDENS

When: Through February 19, 9:00 AM to 5:00 p.m.

Where: Denver Botanic Gardens

Make a date to discover the extraordinary beauty of orchids at the Orchid Showcase at Denver Botanic Gardens. Featuring hundreds of exotic blooms, including rare specimens from the Garden’s extensive collection, this enchanting display is the perfect Valentine’s Day activity for couples, friends, or anyone who loves the elegance of nature.

Stroll through the Orangery, where meticulously arranged orchids create a vibrant and fragrant oasis. From striking colors to intricate designs, each bloom offers a stunning reminder of nature’s artistry. Celebrate the season of love in a serene and breathtaking setting where every bloom tells a story.

Courtesy of Denver Botanic Gardens.

Photo by The Millennial Catalog Ltd.

ALL THE FEELS: A WOOLY WAX VALENTINE’S CANDLE-MAKING WORKSHOP

When: February 12-14, 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.

Where: Wooly Wax HQ

Ditch the traditional Valentine’s dinner and opt for a truly unique experience with All the Feels , an intimate candle-making workshop hosted by Rachel Woolcott, founder of Wooly Wax. For the first time, this beloved scent studio on Tennyson offers a limited series of in-house workshops designed to spark creativity and connection.

Immerse yourself in the art of fragrance as you explore romantic and sensual scent profiles, from moody amber to sultry sandalwood or fresh fig. Learn to blend top, mid, and base notes to craft your custom-scented candle while sipping complimentary champagne and enjoying the high-vibe ambiance. Perfect for couples, friends, or anyone looking to try something new this Valentine’s season, this workshop offers a creative and unforgettable alternative to the usual date night.

VALENTINE’S BRUNCH AT UNCORKED KITCHEN

When: February 16, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Where: Uncorked Kitchen

Skip the crowded restaurants and elevate your Valentine’s celebration with a hands-on culinary experience at Uncorked Kitchen. This special Valentine’s brunch invites couples, friends, and food lovers to roll up their sleeves, learn new cooking techniques, and create an unforgettable memory.

During this two-hour class, participants will prepare a gourmet brunch menu featuring strawberry scones, duck confit benedict with ale mustard hollandaise, and a hearty sauteed spinach breakfast hash. Under the guidance of expert chefs, you’ll enjoy a fun and interactive cooking experience before sitting down to savor your creations. Perfect for anyone seeking a creative Valentine’s weekend activity, this event combines delicious food, great company, and the joy of sharing a memorable culinary adventure.

TREAT YOURSELF AND YOUR LOVED ONE TO AN EXPERIENCE THAT’S TRULY WORTH REMEMBERING THIS VALENTINE’S DAY.

Courtesy of Uncorked Kitchen Courtesy of Wooly Wax

$950 | ALL INCLUSIVE

PRIVATE CONSULT WITH ALEJANDRO GAETA, CREATIVE DIRECTOR

SKETCH | IMPORTED SILK FABRIC FROM ITALY ALL FITTINGS AND ALTERATIONS

THINGS I DATING HEARD WHILE

Emily O’Brien’s Book Captures the Absurdity of Modern Love and Relationships

ARTICLE BY MILLIE D'SOUZA

COVER ARTWORK BY SARAH PLONK OF SKP INK

Ever walked away from a date or a partner, not knowing whether to feel baffled or amused by something that was said? Emily O’Brien knows exactly what that feels like—so she decided to turn it into a book.

Things I Heard While

Dating is a collection of over 100 hilarious, awkward, and downright bizarre one-liners from real-life dating experiences. From cringe-worthy pickup attempts to jaw-dropping moments in relationships, this book showcases the funny and outlandish things people say when they’re trying—and sometimes failing—to make a connection.

I recently caught up with Emily, the Raleigh-based writer behind the book, to learn more about how this quirky project came to life.

“It all began as more of an art project than a book,” she shares. For years, Emily’s been a self-proclaimed "compilation lover,"

someone who gravitates toward groups of things, lists, and quirky collections. It was this love of compilations and a memorable one-liner from an ex that sparked the idea for Things I Heard While Dating. The line stuck with her, and she figured others must have similar stories.

It wasn’t until Emily was on a road trip from Boulder to Raleigh with her husband and daughter that everything clicked. As they drove, she realized: this needs to be a book . After settling in Raleigh, Emily launched a website where people could share their most outrageous dating lines. Thanks to her involvement with CreativeMornings, a non-profit spotlighting perspective art that month, her site gained traffic, and as submissions poured in, Emily knew she had a book on her hands.

For Emily, the entire process felt more fun than work. “I spent my ‘off-hours,’ weekends, and holidays just marinating in the project,” she says. What started as a hobby became something much bigger, and Emily enjoyed reading through the submissions. The toughest part? Narrowing down to just the right ones.

Emily explains that the book is meant to be lighthearted, like “a piece of candy.” It’s not about bashing others but about sharing a laugh and connecting over our universal experiences. “I want people to escape for a bit,” she says. “My goal is the book helps you laugh and feel good, whether you're reading it alone, with friends, or at a dinner party.”

Despite the absurdity of some stories, Emily’s perspective on dating hasn’t changed much from her experiences 20 years ago. “Things are different now, but dating is still about testing the waters,” she says.

Looking for a laugh or a Galentine’s Day gift? Things I Heard While Dating is the perfect read. If you’ve got a wild dating story of your own, Emily invites you to share your piece at ThingsIHeardWhileDating.com

Feb Around Town

to Denvers Union Stations Great Hall. With a curated Champagne list and special events like a Valentine’s celebration and an exclusive wine dinner on February 20, Baumé promises to be a sweet new favorite.

Recurring Throughout Feb

WILD THINGS: THE ART OF MAURICE SENDAK

Step into the whimsical world of Maurice Sendak, the beloved author and illustrator of Where The Wild Things Are. This enchanting exhibit at the Denver Art Museum features original drawings, rare sketches, and behind-the-scenes insights into Sendak’s creative process. A mustsee for fans of all ages, this exhibit celebrates the magic of storytelling and the enduring charm of Sendak’s wild imagination. For more information, visit DenverArtMuseum.com

Opening Feb 2025

BAUMÉ – A DESSERT BAR GRAND OPENING

Indulge in timeless European-inspired desserts at Baumé, the newest addition

Feb 1st - 16th

PIZZA IS OUR LOVE LANGUAGE

Celebrate love with a heart-shaped pizza for two at Fuso in Denver Milk Market. Enjoy it in the cozy LoDo food hall, or make it extra special with a romantic overnight stay at the Maven Hotel. Love (and pizza) is in the air!

Feb 8th

7TH ANNUAL DENVER FAMILYFEST

Bring the whole family for a day of fun at the 7th Annual Denver FamilyFest! This exciting event is packed with activities for kids of all ages, including games, live entertainment, and interactive exhibits. Parents can explore vendor booths featuring family-focused products and services. With plenty of giveaways, food, and entertainment, it’s the ultimate family outing to brighten your February weekend!

Feb 15th

2025 DENVER WINTER TEQUILA TASTING FESTIVAL

Warm up your winter with a spirited afternoon of tequila sampling! Discover premium tequilas, craft cocktails, and more while mingling with fellow enthusiasts. It’s a perfect way to spice up a chilly February day.

Feb 23rd

CHARLOTTE’S WEB – SCFD FREE DAY, PRESENTED BY DENVER CHILDREN’S THEATER

Gather the family and experience the magic of Charlotte’s Web, E.B. White’s timeless tale brought to life on stage by Denver Children’s Theater. Follow the heartwarming journey of Wilbur, the lovable pig, and his extraordinary friendship with Charlotte, the clever spider who spins miracles to save him. This enchanting adaptation celebrates kindness, friendship, and the beauty of selflessness. Perfect for all ages, it’s a delightful way to spend a day filled with laughter, love, and a touch of farmyard magic! For more information, go to Tickets.JCCDenver.org