Reflections and Gratitude Advertisement
As 2025 comes to a close, heartfelt gratitude goes out to all the clients, friends, and partners who made this year remarkable. Serving the Kirkland community and helping so many families buy, sell, and invest in their homes has been an incredible privilege. Every conversation, showing,and closing has been a reminder of the trust placed in this work—and that trust means everything.
Kirkland continues to be one of the most vibrant and desirable places to live in the Pacific Northwest. From the waterfront views to the thriving local businesses, this community’s growth and spirit make it a truly special place to call home.
The year ahead will bring new dynamics to the market, from evolving buyer preferences to shifting economic trends. In 2026, working with a trusted, experienced broker will be essential to achieving success in this ever-changing luxury landscape. Here’s to continued growth, opportunity, and extraordinary homes in the year to come.
KatherineVincent
Zachary Vincent
Celebrate the traditions and Bless those in your life
The holidays are here and the spirit of the season is upon us. Traditions are a big part of the holidays - tree trimming, cookie making, finding the perfect gifts for family and friends, and arguing over the best holiday movie. This time of year also brings with it the unique aromas of the season. Which is your favorite? Pumpkin Spice, fresh cut pine, or Peppermint Cocoa?
While there are many gifts to consider this time of year, I hope you will be mindful of the local individuals and organizations who contribute so much to making Kirkland an amazing place to live, work, and raise a family. They each have needs, often unspoken, and so many do the necessary work without asking for so much as a “Thank you”. Our prayer is that you will think about who you know and offer a word of appreciation, buy them a special drink, and throw a little extra their way to lighten their load in some meaningful way.
Every year, City Lifestyle requests nominations from you, our readers, within each community to help us find those in need, whether it's health, financial, or grief-related. Nominate them, allow our Giving Team to read their story, and your nominee may receive a financial gift. Individual gifts have ranged from a thousand dollars to several thousand, all aimed at lightening the burden in a time of need and letting them know they are loved. Visit www.kingdombuildingfoundation. org to nominate someone you know and “Thank you” for helping us.
December 2025
PUBLISHER
Shannon Coy | shannon.coy@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Teresa Coy | teresa.coy@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Carley Ridley | carley.ridley@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Taylor Robinson | taylor.robinson@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Amber Dawn Schultheis, Courtney Evans, Teresa Coy
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Dawning Memories, Lawson Coy
Finally, this issue is intended to express our gratitude for welcoming Kirkland Lifestyle into your home. For the past year, our team has enjoyed meeting people in the community, learning about their work and why they have chosen to serve the community in the way they do - all so we can craft stories you’ll enjoy reading. As we celebrate the holidays, we are also celebrating you, our readers, followers on social media, and listeners to the Looking Local podcast. You inspire us with your generosity and love for this community. The pages that follow have been a blessing to prepare, from the mulled wine recipe that may be new to you, to the introduction to our own highly acclaimed watercolor artist. We hope you find this issue a blessing to you and your family. Happiest of Holidays! SHANNON COY, PUBLISHER
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 Marina Campbell
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
A Legacy of Distinction. A Future of Possibility. 1 of 1
Since 1744, the Sotheby’s name has been synonymous with trust, authenticity, and enduring legacy. At Realogics Sotheby’s International Realty (RSIR), we carry that heritage forward in the Pacific Northwest.
Our Global Real Estate Advisors bring unmatched expertise, a worldspanning network, and local knowledge of the region. In an industry of constant change, our focus remains unwavering: elevating the experience of buying and selling real estate with results that consistently lead the market.
At RSIR, it’s never just a transaction. Instead, it’s about shaping legacies, celebrating lifestyles, and offering the confidence of knowing you are working with professionals who are truly 1 of 1. Explore your next property journey with us.
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
brought together professionals from the custom home building sector to celebrate excellence and collaboration at the always lively, Jocovine
food and drinks provided by Jocovine
Alair Kirkland’s Industry Appreciation Night 1: Amy Andrews and Beth Gale. 2: Jim Frieze, Stacy Eakman, Lee Travis, and Jed Dringus. 3: Shawn Tramble and Elizabeth Schneider. 4: Alair Kirkland’s Industry Appreciation Night
Bistro. 5: Taylor Robinson and Madelyn Hagen. 6: Jolene Messmer, Josepha Rood, Uttara Shrinivas, and Danielle Williams. 7: Delicious
Bistro. Photography by Life N Light
The Bellevue Collection’s 20th Fashion Week 8: A model stuns in a standout design from Ayo Collections. 9: Models celebrate 20 years of Fashion Week at The Bellevue Collection with falling confetti. 10: Model debuts an elegant student design from the New & Next Student Designer Showcase. 11: Striking looks from the Deyonte’ Weather Collection hit the runway. 12: A model commands the runway in a bold, monochromatic look from the Purple Reign trend. 13: The Collective Runway Show features curated fall looks from The Bellevue Collection’s shops. 14: The Trend Takeover Runway Show unveils the season’s most coveted fall fashion moments. Photography by Vivian Hsu Photography
Luxury Through Legacy: Pinstripe Wines Pops Up in Kirkland
Pinstripe Wines and Alair Homes Kirkland invite you to join them for intimate quarterly pop-up tasting experiences in 2026. Enjoy curated sips and bites while connecting with Washington’s only women-owned sparkling wine house. Guests may also pick up their preordered bottles or reserve upcoming releases. Pinstripe Wines, in partnership with Alair, celebrates fine craftsmanship, meaningful connection, and giving back—with every bottle benefiting Seattle Children’s Hospital’s Uncompensated Care Fund.
Photography by Life N Light
FogRose Afternoon Tea – A Hallmark Holiday Tradition
Amongst the holiday festivities is an old tradition renewed – a daz zling holiday tasting menu in the form of Afternoon Tea. FogRose Atelier is known for curating themed Afternoon Tea. This year’s theme, The Nutcracker, with all of its magic trans formed into three tiers, will take on a new stage – the holiday table. Paired with nostalgic teas such as Apple Cider and Banana Bread; it’s a holiday tradition you will love to keep.
by June Ya Ren
H E A D S H O T S
Photography
Save the Date for Our Holiday Celebration on December 11th
Save the date for The Larrabee Center’s Holiday Celebration! Join us December 11th from 5:30-7:30 PM in Kirkland for a festive evening of sips, snacks, and exclusive savings. This special event is our way of saying thank you to our amazing patients. Celebrate the season with our expert team, explore your favorite aesthetic treatments, and enjoy a little extra holiday glowour gift to you! Call 206-386-3550 or visit larrabeecenter.com for more info.
Photography by The Larrabee Center
A HUMBLE ARTIST FINDS HIS WAY TO THE WHITE HOUSE THRU THE PACIFIC NW
Growing up in the small rural town of Bay Village, Ohio, Thomas William Jones fell in love with nature and the stories it holds. His father, a banker by day and a watercolor artist in his spare time, was a masterful example to both Thomas and his brother, Bill.
ARTICLE BY TERESA COY
PHOTOGRAPHY BY LAWSON COY
“I was fortunate to have a dad who loved to draw and paint. On the weekends he would set up his paints and like any little kid, I wanted to emulate him. I would watch him for hours using colors in Winsor Newton tubes that he stored in a little cigar box.”
As Thomas grew up, time allowed for the exploration of the rural countryside. The natural surroundings began to build up layers in his mind culminating in a desire to express what he was seeing. Thomas didn’t realize it at the time but his unique ability to capture the most nuanced
“I DEVELOPED THE ABILITY TO SIMPLIFY - WHERE LESS BECAME MORE.”
details of an image, a photographic memory, was beginning to develop in him and would serve him well in the future. His time outside inspired Thomas naturally to get out his own paper and paints where his dad began to show him how to shape a tree trunk, how to express bark texture, and over time how to paint a sky suggesting the feeling of clouds using color.
In high school Thomas had an art teacher who recognized this ability. “I guess it was just in my DNA, and he recognized that. My confidence started to grow as I realized I was becoming a better judge of what was
in my head and getting my impressions on to watercolor paper.”
After attending The Cleveland Institute of Art, Thomas gleaned a little more technique in drawing and painting. Along the way, to help with tuition, he accepted commissions to do paintings of Bay Village homes. Also, with his interest in flying, World War II pilots would ask him to paint aircraft they had flown during the war. In 1967 Thomas visited Everett, WA after having been commissioned by the president of General Telephone Company of the NW to paint 25 paintings of their five-state
rural service areas to hang in their new corporate headquarters.
“Through that experience I learned to appreciate the way light plays throughout the day in the PNW as compared to in Ohio. I love the contrast between light and dark, and as a result, I developed the ability to simplify where less became more. By doing so, I became a more emotional painter.”
In 1969 Thomas met Carrie, a teacher and quick champion of his talent; soon to be his wife in 1973. Until the early 1980s Carrie continued teaching while Thomas pursued his art. Gaining more exposure, his local & national invitational exhibitions increased and Carrie chose to stop teaching to join Thomas in his endeavors.
During the next few years of national recognition, Thomas found himself interacting with other well-known American artists and collectors. In 1985 he was contacted by the White House social staff informing him that he had been selected by the Reagans to create their Presidential Christmas card. Mrs. Reagan had been shown Thomas’ work and fell in love with his ability to capture beauty and detail on paper. That 1985 card, “The Blue Room at Christmas ”, turned out to be the first in a series of 4 paintings that he would do for the Reagans in their final term in office.
Thomas and Carrie eventually decided to relocate to the Puget Sound area where they have lived for 31 years. “We are fortunate to live where we live and do what we do”, says Thomas. “It quickly became home.”
HOLIDAY MULLED WINE
This holiday season, why not simmer a pot of fragrant, warming, mulled wine to enjoy by the fire? It is perfect for sharing with guests or sipping slowly while wrapping gifts and decorating your home. This recipe includes a bit of liqueur or brandy, but can also be made without for a lighter option.
ARTICLE BY AMBER DAWN SCHULTHEIS PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAWNING MEMORIES
HOLIDAY MULLED WINE
SERVES
Serves 10–12
INGREDIENTS :
• 2 (750 ml) bottles dry red wine, such as Merlot or Grenache (about 10 cups total)
• ½–¾ cup orange liqueur or brandy
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 4 whole cloves
• 2 star anise pods
• 1 orange, sliced
• 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup, plus more to taste
• Optional garnish: rosemary sprigs, cinnamon sticks, orange slices, or whole cranberries dusted in caster (superfine) sugar
DIRECTIONS:
1. Place the spices (cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise) in a cheesecloth bag or a large tea diffuser. This makes it easy to remove them later and prevents the wine from becoming bitter. A coffee filter secured with twine will work as well.
2. Pour the wine into a large saucepan, stock pot, or slow cooker. Add the liqueur (or brandy), mulling spices, orange slices, and maple syrup. Stir gently.
3. Simmer on low for 15–30 minutes. Taste and adjust sweetness with more maple syrup, if desired. Avoid bringing it to a boil, as this will reduce the wine and cook off the alcohol.
4. When the wine reaches your preferred level of spice, remove the mulling spices. Keep warm on low heat until ready to serve. Serve warm, garnished with rosemary, cinnamon sticks, orange slices, or sugared cranberries. Especially lovely alongside molasses cookies or a plate of sharp cheeses.
If you love this recipe, find more seasonal and hospitality-focused recipes at thehostnotes.com and follow along @thehostnotes on social channels.
YOUTH FOR FREEDOM
THE
ARTICLE BY COURTNEY EVANS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY YOUTH FOR FREEDOM
UNLEASHING
LEADERS OF TOMORROW
“What mattered was teaching leadership - how to think for yourself, how to make choices that matter, and how to lead your own life.”
– AUBREY TAYLOR, CEO
Leadership. Authenticity. Action. At Youth for Freedom (YFF), these aren’t just buzzwords, they’re a way of life. For more than two decades, this nonprofit has helped thousands of youth discover their purpose and lead with authenticity and confidence.
Founded in 2002, Youth for Freedom began as a small camp dedicated to teaching constitutional principles through hands-on learning. But as its reach grew beyond the U.S., welcoming youth from Canada, Mexico, and beyond, it evolved into something even more transformative: a global leadership movement for the next generation.
“We realized that what really mattered wasn’t teaching politics or history,” said Aubrey Taylor, CEO. “What mattered was teaching leadership - how to think for yourself, how to make choices that matter, and how to lead your own life.”
Aubrey would know. She attended Youth for Freedom as a teen and said it helped her find her footing and lead her life with purpose and determination.
A FULL-CIRCLE STORY
At 16-years-old, Aubrey attended one of YFF’s Experiential Leadership Trainings (ELTs.) It was here Aubrey had a breakthrough.
“In that moment, I realized I didn’t have to be tossed around by what life gave me. I could lead my life,” she said. “I remember looking at the woman leading the experience thinking, ‘I’m going to do what she’s doing someday.’”
Two decades later, Aubrey found herself standing in that same room back where it all began. But this time, she was the one leading the experience - watching the next generation of teens experience their own moments of clarity and courage. The energy in the room was familiar, yet new; it was as if time folded in on itself, connecting who she was then with who she is now.
For Aubrey, it wasn’t just a full-circle moment—it was living proof that individual transformation can have a ripple effect. The impact of one person’s breakthrough has the ability to inspire countless others, and in that space, surrounded by young leaders finding their own voice, she saw it all come to life.
LEADERSHIP IN ACTION
At Youth for Freedom, teens don’t just talk about leadershipthey get the opportunity to practice it. Through ELTs, participants are immersed in games, simulations, and discussions that challenge them to think critically, make decisions, and collaborate effectively.
“It’s not a lecture or a PowerPoint,” Aubree explained with a laugh. “We throw them into the experience. They get to lead, fail, adapt, and try again, just like in life.” Through these trainings, teens learn how to work with others, communicate powerfully, and lead from a place of integrity.
YFF isn’t therapy, but things can get emotional. “Yes, there are tears,” Aubrey admitted. “Growth is uncomfortable, but we’ve created a judgment-free space where kids can process that discomfort and transform it into strength.”
NOT JUST A CAMP - A MOVEMENT
Over 7,000 youth have participated in Youth for Freedom’s camps, online mentoring programs, and pop-up leadership events around the world. Headquartered in Gilbert, Arizona, YFF’s annual summer camp in St. George, Utah draws participants from all over the globe.
Each year, the organization expands its reach through advanced leadership programs, mobile workshops, and collaborations with partners like the Backstage Foundation.
In 2026, Seattle will host a new Advanced Leadership Program for teens 15-18, offering a deeper dive into leadership principles but in an intimate, high-impact setting.
UNLEASHING POTENTIAL FOR ALL
As a nonprofit, Youth for Freedom is deeply committed to accessibility. Scholarships and sponsorships ensure that financial hardship doesn’t stand in the way of participation.
“I came from a low-income family,” said Aubrey. “There were years when I could only attend camp because someone sponsored me. That’s why it’s so important for us to provide that same opportunity to others.”
Through its Pathfinder Scholarship, Youth for Freedom awards $5,000 a year to a youth who demonstrates leadership, vision, and a commitment to making a difference. Past winners have used the funds to start allergy-friendly food initiatives for the homeless, pursue social work degrees, or launch small businesses.
ALREADY AWESOME
That’s one of Youth for Freedom’s core beliefs: every teen who walks through their doors is ‘already awesome .’
“We’re not here to ‘fix’ kids,” Aubrey emphasized. “We’re here to help them unleash the leader that’s already inside them. When teens realize their voice matters and they can create their own reality, everything changes.”
With more than 20 years of proven impact, Youth for Freedom continues to do what it does best: change lives, one experience at a time. Because when you teach young people to lead their own lives, you’re not just shaping better leaders - you’re shaping a better world.
To learn more or get involved with Youth for Freedom, visit youthforfreedom.org or follow them on social media for up to date information on camps, programs, and scholarships.
When teens realize their voice matters and they can create their own reality, everything changes
events
DECEMBER 1ST
Santa Claus visit at Village at Totem Lake
11901 NE Village Plaza, Kirkland | 11:00 AM
Santa Claus is Coming to Village at Totem Lake! The most wonderful time of the year is almost here and Santa is making his grand arrival at the Village at Totem Lake! Bring your family and friends to capture unforgettable holiday memories with Santa. Weekdays/Saturdays: 11am-7pm. For questions, email contact@souvenirphotograph.com.
DECEMBER 10TH
Startup & Small Business Coworking
Kirkland City Hall 123 5th Ave, Kirkland | 10:30 AM
Take part in a dynamic day of coworking, created specifically and exclusively for entrepreneurs, founders, and business owners. Hosted by the City of Kirkland and Startup425, Startup and Small Business CoWorking is designed to foster collaboration, inspire innovation, and provide valuable resources to help you thrive in your entrepreneurial journey. For more information and to RSVP visit www.startup425.org
DECEMBER 10TH
O Christmas Tea: A British Comedy
Kirkland Performance Centre | 3:00 PM
Combining British propriety with an unabashed love for the unexpected, London’s 3-time Impresario Award-winning duo steep an outrageously funny and brilliantly inventive show comes to Kirkland Dec 10th & 11th. Find ticket information and more at www.ochristmastea.com.
DECEMBER 14TH
The 12ks of Christmas
Marina Park | 9:00 AM
Get out your Santa Hats and Reindeer Antlers! Join us for another amazing 12K's of Christmas with a 12k, 5k and Little Elf run, there is something for everyone. The race will begin and end at Marina Park, 25 Lake Shore Plaza in downtown Kirkland. To register a group or individual, visit www.12ksofchristmas.com
DECEMBER 16TH-18TH
Grand Kyiv Ballet's "The
Nutcracker"
Kirkland Performance Ctr. 350 Kirkland Ave | 7:00 PM
Step into the magic of Christmas with Grand Kyiv Ballet. With Tchaikovsky’s glorious music, elegant choreography, and enchanting sets, this performance brings holiday wonder to the stage. A perfect night for the whole family — a show that inspires children and adults alike! For tickets visit www.grandkyivballet.com
DECEMBER 20TH
Crafternoon at the Library
Kingsgate Library 12315 NE 143rd St, Kirkland | 2:00 PM
For crafters of all kinds! Bring your own project to work on and spend some time getting to know other crafters in your community. Sponsored by the Friends of the Kingsgate Library. For information and Library hours visit www.kcls.bibliocommons.com. This event is designed for adults and teens, ages 16 and older.
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BREAKFAST HOLIDAY
The holidays are filled with family gatherings. Enjoy this easy, make-ahead recipe to simplify your holiday breakfast; it is sure to impress your guests.
CROISSANT LEMON BERRY DELIGHT
Casserole Ingredients:
• 6 large croissants (from the bakery) sliced into cubes
• 3 cups mixed berries
• 1 package cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sugar
• 5 eggs at room temperature
• 2 cups half and half at room temperature
• ¾ tablespoon vanilla extract
• ¾ tablespoon lemon juice
Lemon Glaze Ingredients:
• 2 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 tablespoon butter, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 ½ tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions:
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Preheat oven to 350 degrees and toast the cubed croissants on a baking dish for 10 minutes. In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs, half and half, lemon juice and vanilla and mix until smooth. Place the toasted croissants into a greased 9 x 13 pan and layer with 1 ½ cups berries. Pour custard mix on top and then add the remaining berries on top. Cover with foil and refrigerate overnight. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and bake, covered, for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 15 minutes. Set aside and make glaze by adding all ingredients to a bowl and mixing until smooth. Drizzle over the casserole and sprinkle with powdered sugar if desired.
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