Holidays & Giving
“We absolutely LOVE Central Bark! Our two goldens go twice a week and they could not be more excited when we pull into the parking lot!
The staff is amazing and makes each dog feel at home each and every day. We also board our dogs here and get them groomed which is amazing to have a daycare that does it all!”
Enjoy holiday boarding for your dogs home away from home.
Receive 20% off your dogs first night stay.
What better gift this holiday season than ensuring your loved ones' futures A well-crafted, comprehensive estate plan provides your family with invaluable gifts, including but not limited to:
Financial security
Asset transfer and protection
Probate avoidance
Guardianship for children
Instructions for your care
Reduced estate taxes and expenses
Schedule a free consultation with the Wolterman Law Office today! And coming this December, our new office location in Blue Ash will make serving you and your family even easier.
Preserve your legacy and ensure your loved ones are cared for after your passing.
The holidays are here! December rushes in amidst a whirlwind of activity and events, bringing with it holiday cheer and for many of us, nostalgic traditions. These traditions are often what made our childhoods so magical; a wintery walk through the Festival of Lights, the lighting of the tree or baking tasty, festive treats. The smells, sounds and twinkle of the season help us feel like kids again.
My favorite Christmas tradition was always heading out to choose a tree with my family at a local cut-yourown farm. We would race one another in the tree hauling sleds, see who could saw the fastest, then hop in the horse drawn wagon which took us all back to the barn. I can still smell the fire, taste the hot spiced cider and feel the warm mug in my tingly, chilled fingers. We’d then pop on our favorite Christmas carols while stringing lights and garland and hanging ornaments on the tree.
This month, we wanted to highlight the magic of the season and what our city has to offer that helps spread holiday cheer. From best tips for homemade treats from Blended Bakes, to futuristic gift ideas from the local small business REKKIE, or perhaps something on the softer side with a brand new line of in-house Italian sweaters in Montgomery, this issue is full of ideas.
We also wanted to share what our area has to offer this holiday season for entertainment and ways to give back. While this season can be beautiful for some, it can be painful and lonely for others, especially those who have recently lost a loved one. In the true spirit of the season, let’s take care of those in our community that need assistance or who are alone.
My hope for you this season is that you feel love and peace and that we all remember to take care of each other, extending grace, empathy and love.
Happy Holidays!
DEBORAH MEKENESE, PUBLISHER @INDIANHILL.CITYLIFESTYLE
December 2024
PUBLISHER
Deborah Mekenese
Deborah.Mekenese@CityLifestyle.com
EDITOR
Tera Michelson | Tera.Michelson@CityLifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Mike Burcham, Bill Furbee
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Janie Jones, LUXE & ART: Exclusively Michael Bambino, RF Graphic Designs
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford
LAYOUT DESIGNER Amanda Schilling
Ryan English MBA, CFA, CPA, CFP® Shareholder, Investment Manager, Team Lead
For Indian Hill resident Ryan English, wealth management goes beyond numbers—it’s about helping people build lives they love. As a leader at Foster & Motley, Ryan strives to help clients and employees find the fulfillment they value, like he’s found with his family and his work. Actively supporting his Cincinnati community through numerous charitable and educational efforts, Ryan serves on the Cincinnati Parks Foundation Investment Committee and the Greater Cincinnati Platform Tennis Association Board as treasurer, and gives back to various other organizations. He is proud to have lived in Indian Hill for most of his life and enjoys spending time with his wife, watching their children participate in Indian Hill recreational sports, and supporting Cincinnati Country Day. Visit fosterandmotley.com to learn more about the team.
1: Anna Leatherbee of Hunt Corporate Sponsor Jaguar Cincinnati visits with the hounds. The upcoming season will be Camargo Hunt's 100th year, making them one of the oldest recognized fox hunts of North America. 2: The Parade of Hounds with Huntsman Katherine Gunter leading the pack. 3: The Madeira & Indian Hill Joint Fire District was named the 2024 Camargo Hunt Tailgate Competition Grand Champion. 4: This year's Hunt had an amazing turnout of riders, spectators & tailgate competitors, including Keith Wood of City Club of Cincinnati & friends. 5: The Oyler Hines team was all smiles at Clippinger Field. 6: The 83rd Annual Camargo Hunter Trials was a huge success. Many thanks to volunteer organizers Becky Trasser + Laura Wogen. 7: Indian Hill resident Frank Welsh receiving a blessing at the Blessing of the Hounds.
JOIN US FOR A WALK THROUGH THE ILLUMINATED WOODS AT CINCINNATI NATURE CENTER’S HOLIDAY LIGHT EVENT!
DECEMBER 5–29
Select dates, from 5:30–9 pm
Don’t miss our new light displays along an expanded trail featuring children’s activities, live music, shopping, a decorated historic home, and more!
Preregistration required: Scan the QR code to register or visit CincyNature.org
This Holiday
Bailey Family Catering serves up delicious, chef designed dishes for every occasion, so you can focus on making memories with loved ones, friends, and colleagues. Relax, enjoy, and let Bailey’s handle the rest!
Place holiday menu orders by December 17th.
Congratulations to Foster & Motley Wealth Management, recognized as one of the nation’s 100 top-rated financial advisory firms of 2024 by CNBC for the sixth consecutive year. Foster & Motley, a Cincinnati-based registered investment advisory (RIA) firm, is the only local company to make the list for six years straight. No direct or indirect compensation was paid to be included in the CNBC FA100. Visit FosterandMotley.com for more details and disclosures.
Scan to read more
‘Tis the season for giving! December brings The BMW Road Home Sales Event at The BMW Store, 6131 Stewart Road, Cincinnati. Choose the gift that keeps on giving—take advantage of exceptional offers on BMW models such as the electric i4, the all-new 2025 X3 and the X5 hybrid. “Passion Loves Company®” at this trusted local dealer known for its knowledgeable and attentive staff with a sole focus on BMWs and customer service. BMWStore.com
Put your health on the top of your to-do list during this stressful season. Attend the free seminar, “Stress, Hormones and Health,” presented by Erica Finnan, founder of EverWell Center for Health & Longevity. Onward Physical Therapy will host the community learning event, open to the public on December 7 at 10 a.m. at its Montgomery location, 10004 Montgomery Road. Space is limited; message info@onwardcincinnati.com to save your spot. Bring your questions and curiosity. OnwardPhysicalTherapy.com/Cincinnati/ Scan to read more
LOCAL HOME BAKERY OFFERS ADVICE FOR HOLIDAY TREATS
"Rysdon is enriching the region, one sweet bite at a time."
Taylor Rysdon’s passion for preparing meals and sweet treats is apparent. After all, it led to the creation of her own company, Blended Bakes, which has had a positive impact on countless events and celebrations throughout Greater Cincinnati.
“Growing up, baking was a therapeutic outlet for me,” Rysdon recalls.
It was during a maternity leave from her corporate job in late 2019 that Rysdon rediscovered a love of baking. Not long after, she began baking for family and friends, which led her to connect with new families and businesses in the area. When the pandemic hit, requests grew as orders came in from numerous families celebrating events at home.
It was an easy decision to become bonafide.
“In 2023, I launched my LLC and became a licensed home bakery in Ohio,” Rysdon explains. “Blended Bakes is my full-time passion.”
From thoughtfully curated cakes to macarons and even special dietary treats, Rysdon is enriching the region, one sweet bite at a time.
“I love building relationships with my community through baking,” Rysdon proudly shares. “It’s been an incredible journey!”
Is the thought of holiday baking causing your anxiety to bubble over? With the right attitude and a healthy portion of preparation, it doesn’t have to be a worrisome undertaking. Rysdon happily shares a few tips for better baking.
Set a menu and stick to it. “This one goes for baking and cooking,” Rysdon says. “When you set a menu of 3-4 treats, you’re setting yourself up for success.” She recommends selecting a treat or dessert that’s complementary to everything else on the dinner table.
She explains, “If you’re serving turkey and cranberry sauce, skip the cranberry cookies and go with a
different holiday flavor, like apple.” That way you get more variation, without adding another dessert.
Shop smart and early. “I’ve seen prices rise around the holidays, for no good reason,” she says, sharing an observation to which many can relate. Avoid inflated costs. “Items like butter, eggs and flour can be purchased well in advance, before the spike in prices.”
Additionally, Rysdon recommends being prepared for the likelihood that some ingredients might be out of stock. “Every year I visit numerous stores to find spices like nutmeg, pumpkin and cardamom. Don’t wait for the store to run out—start snagging those items now.”
Bake and freeze for easy treats. Rysdon recommends that you prepare goodies together for a fun day with the kids but work ahead of time. “You can make and bake items like cinnamon rolls and chocolate chip cookies up to a month in advance and freeze them,” she advises. Then, when holiday events roll around, families can simply thaw, heat and enjoy.
Outsource what you can’t do. If you can’t do it, shop small, Rysdon says. “There’s always someone in your area that might be able to help, but make sure you ask early enough. Many local businesses book quickly and early!”
Invest in a food scale. While many online recipes reference cup measurements, Rysdon has found that her tastiest treats are best when she measures the ingredients in grams using a food scale. “Cup measuring tools aren’t always accurate,” she advises. “Measuring in grams will become your best friend.”
Blended Bakes LLC | BlendedBakesBakery@ gmail.com | BlendedBakes.square.site
CONTINUED >
I love building relationships with my community through baking! “ ”
The act of giving is what makes the holiday season such a magical time. There may not be a better example of giving than the The Salvation Army Red Kettle Campaign.
IT’S THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR TO GIVE TO THE SALVATION
ARTICLE BY MIKE BURCHAM
“I like to say that we were the original crowdfunders,” says Julie Budden, divisional director of development for Salvation Army’s Southwest Ohio Northeast Kentucky Division.
The Red Kettle Campaign started in 1891 in San Francisco, when a Salvation Army officer put out a lobster pot to collect donations to help feed 1,000 people on Christmas Day. The ringing of the bell was added in 1900 in New York as a volunteer was trying to get the attention of bankers on Wall Street to donate. The tradition has continued since and grown to help more than 31 million during the holidays.
One of the unique benefits of giving to the Red Kettle Campaign is that the donations stay in your zip code.
“Funds raised stay local to a community to serve those needs,” Budden says. “In the last few years and already this year, we are seeing an increase in requests for things like rental assistance, which helps with prevention of homelessness, utilities, as well as basic essentials like food, clothing or emergency needs.
“At Christmas time, families who may need to make challenging choices on a tight budget can turn to us for support,” she adds. “We believe no child should be forgotten at Christmas and with the help of generous contributions, we can meet the immediate
and longer term needs of families all year long. The Salvation Army’s love extends far beyond the moment of service.”
Salvation Army’s Red Kettles can be found at local Kroger and Walmart stores as well as other retail locations throughout the region. Donate beyond the Red Kettle by giving online or via text message. The Salvation Army, which has been operating since 1865, is also supported by corporate donations, grants and in-kind donations.
Giving the gift of your time is another way to help Salvation Army.
“We have volunteer opportunities available and going to our website can help you identify your closest location for year-round opportunities as well as bell ringing,” Budden says. “Bell ringing shifts are usually two hours, and it can be somewhere close to your neighborhood. Many families bring their children and make this an annual tradition.”
One of the great ambassadors of the Red Kettle Campaign was longtime Cincinnati radio host Jim Scott who passed away last summer. His wife and son have urged the community to volunteer with The Salvation Army this holiday season in his honor.
“One of the things Jim loved most about Cincinnati was that everybody is always willing to help lift the community,” Budden says.
The Red Kettle campaign began at Thanksgiving and continues until Christmas Eve.
“I cherish the holiday tradition of hearing the sound of the bells every year because you know Christmas is on the way and someone’s Christmas will be better because of you and your contribution, big or small,” Budden says. “The Salvation Army kettles and bells are a reminder to give to others and it feels good, like the true spirit of Christmas, loving your neighbor.”
This Red Kettle season, follow the jingle of the bell to give in-person, send the text KETTLE to 31333, volunteer time or donate gifts online. SalArmy.org/SWONEKY
ARTICLE BY TERA MICHELSON
PHOTOGRAPHY BY LUXE & ART: EXCLUSIVELY
STEP INTO WINTER IN LUXURIOUS ITALIAN WARDROBE STAPLES BY ELEVATI
The winter winds are blowing, and it is officially sweater weather in Cincinnati. Elevate your winter look with luxurious Italian wardrobe staples by a new brand, Elevati. Elevati’s styles are timeless, and the fit is as flattering as it is comfortable. Winter has never looked so inviting.
Introducing Elevati, a new and exclusive brand only available at Designer Items and More, a unique boutique in Montgomery. The local business specializes in new and vintage clothes and accessories from the top couture houses around the world. Carefully curated by Founder Felisa Insignares, the chic boutique is a fashion wonderland.
Elevati’s celebrated launch brings a curated collection of timeless Italian-made essentials to Greater Cincinnati at a price point that makes refined luxury accessible. Elevati includes extraordinary pieces, offering a selection of wardrobe staples that elevate your look.
“With Elevati, we’ve combined Italy’s finest craftsmanship with modern, timeless designs to create pieces that elevate everyday style,” says Insignares.
Elevati’s debut collection showcases a perfect balance of sophisticated fabrics and flattering silhouettes, designed to transition seamlessly from day to night while maintaining an air of effortless luxury.
Featuring sumptuous knits, the winter collection is both stylish and versatile: sweaters, tops, pants, dresses, wraps and capes. These mix-and-match must-haves come in a range of elegant colors, including Caramelo (Caramel), Rosa (Pink), Bianco (Ivory) and Notte (Black).
The asymmetrical, off-the-shoulder sweaters are the star of the collection, upgrading every ensemble. Skirts and pants are form-fitting in all of the right places for a flattering line. Draping wraps and capes add a layer of warmth and elegance for a night out on the town.
Insignares is excited for this season’s collection and for what is to come.
“This winter, discover Elevati’s knitwear designed for refined style and timeless elegance,” she says. “Every season, Elevati will unveil a new capsule.”
Dress up your holiday and every season with Elevati, everyday essentials made up of extraordinary pieces.
DesignerItemsandMore.com | 9412 Montgomery Road, Montgomery | 513.349.2080
FornoOsteriaBar.com | 9415 Montgomery Road, Montgomery | 513.231.5555
Thanks to Forno Osteria & Bar for providing an idyllic setting for this Italian fashion photoshoot.
Thanks to the models: Felisa Insignares, William Insignares and Designer Items and More clients Judith Banks, Magdalena Kerschner, Laura Moese, Teresa Lee Rosenbeck and Rhonda Sebastian.
Styled by Felisa Insignares.
Award-winning Montgomery boutique Designer Items and More was founded by Felisa Insignares. Her background in external relations at Procter & Gamble for 15 years provided her with a deep understanding of connecting with and empowering women. This commitment evolved into her founding Designer Items and More, now a celebrated destination for high-end fashion in the heart of Old Montgomery.
Inspired by Insignares’ mother, the Elevati collection reflects a deep love for culture, style and fine craftsmanship. Her elegant portrait hangs in the shop, a loving reminder of their Colombian and Italian heritage that richly influences Insignares’ passion for fashion.
Sponsored by Daley Design + Build
ARTICLE BY TERA MICHELSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY RF GRAPHIC DESIGNS
The Pease brothers like to stick together—at work, at play and especially on the slopes. David, Henry and Fletcher Pease, three Cincinnati guys that like to ski, have developed a practical and affordable product to help friends and family find one another on the mountain—REKKIE Smart Snow Goggles.
Named after a British military slang term for reconnaissance, REKKIE helps you keep track of each other, while also keeping track of time, speed, direction, elevation, distance from friends, tunes and incoming messages. Coming soon: turn-by-turn
navigation. The goggles are as user-friendly as they are high-tech, both lightweight and durable, completely premium but affordable. They are the perfect holiday gift for skiers.
Users navigate REKKIE’s Heads-Up Display with a simple turn of their head and press of a glove-friendly button. No more taking off your gloves or digging your phone out of your pocket. Instead of wasting time searching for one another, one quick look at the REKKIE dashboard helps you make real-time directional decisions and enjoy more time together.
"REKKIE helps you keep track of each other, while also keeping track of time, speed, direction, elevation, distance from friends, tunes and incoming messages."
The brothers’ direct-to-consumer company is a full family effort. They know each other well and their variety of skillsets and respect for one another’s disciplines make for an effective team.
“Fletcher does finance. I do project management and the website and Henry does hardware,” David explains. Their fourth partner, Anderson Vankayala, is a friend that rounds out the team with an expertise in software.
“It's really hard to start a business and we couldn't imagine doing it anywhere other than Cincinnati,” says David.
Shop local this holiday season to support the entrepreneurial Pease brothers. REKKIE is a gift for the whole family, giving you more time with your loved ones as you ski.
REKKIE.com | info@rekkie.com | 513.586.4497
Ten Features of REKKIE Smart Snow Goggles that Deliver
• User-friendly with a free app
• Long and reliable battery life (15+ hours!)
• Goggle-to-goggle radio connectivity for areas outside of cellular service
• Choose from four colors of anti-fog, anti-frost, anti-smudge lenses featuring UV400 and scratch protection
• Precision-engineered for high-performance durability, comfort and style
• Wireless, over-the-air updates from the phone app
• Microfiber carrying case and USB-C cable charger included
• Affordable and practical recreational tech that performs
• Test-driven at our local ski resort, Perfect North Slopes
• Designed and manufactured in Cincinnati
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.com
DECEMBER 5TH
The Madison Place
Light Up
The Madison Place, 4204 Plainville Road, Cincinnati | 6:00 PM
Join the Madison Place community for a night of holiday cheer. Enjoy a tree lighting, pictures with Santa, free carriage rides, carolers and a petting zoo. Stop by the Jackie Barnes Design Studio for holiday decorating demonstrations and ornament making from 6-8 p.m. JackieBarnesDesign.com
DECEMBER 5TH - 29TH
Light in the Forest
Cincinnati Nature Center at Rowe Woods | 5:30 PM
Step into a world where twinkling lights, nature’s beauty and holiday magic come together to create an unforgettable winter wonderland! This magical 1-mile walking tour features enchanting ponds, fields and woodlands illuminated with stunning seasonal delights. Enjoy all-new light installations, interactive displays, children’s activities, live music, a cozy bonfire, food trucks, and much more. Advanced tickets are required. CincyNature.org/program/ light-in-the-forest
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DECEMBER 8TH
44th Annual Village
Christmas Party
Little Red Schoolhouse | 2:00 PM
The community is invited to celebrate the season at the Historical Society’s 44th Annual Village Christmas Party for all ages, 2-4 p.m. Enjoy music, entertainment by a juggler and a magician and the opportunity to visit with Santa himself. IndianHill.org
DECEMBER 26TH
Little Red Schoolhouse | 9:15 AM
Save the date for a new Indian Hill tradition! Join Camargo Hunt members and neighbors for a festive Stirrup Cup and the chance to see off the riders and hounds. In case of inclement weather, contact Barb at 513.304.3738 to ask about cancellations. Contact Organizer Curt McAdams for details. CamargoHunt.com
