The True Gift That Keeps on Giving
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.
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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
Cincinnati’s Premier Contemporary Quilting Studio
... For All To Hear
Every time I read the teaser on our cover, the line “The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear!” from Elf pops in my mind. Now it’s in yours … you’re welcome. It’s one of my favorite lines from one of my favorite Christmas movies, and “Christmas cheer” I think pretty much sums up this whole issue.
We’ve packed a lot of “Christmas cheer” into these pages. A fun, festive mantel courtesy of Sarah Nicole Redesign. A winter salad that’s sure to become a staple on your holiday dinner table. Gift wrapping tips and tricks to ensure your gift is the loveliest under the tree, and so much more.
Putting this issue together definitely got me in the holiday spirit—even though I am literally witting this letter on October 31st while drinking a pumpkin spice coffee at Mile 42; I hope it does the same for you. And if it makes you want to break into song, “spreading Christmas cheer” … well, then we did our job. Happy Holidays.
December 2024
PUBLISHER
Emily Barlow | emily.barlow@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Stephanie Meinberg
stephanie.meinberg@citylifestyle.com
SALES SUPPORT DIRECTOR
Courtney Kraemer | courtney.kraemer@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Kelsie Ruoff | lovelandlifestyle@gmail.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Chris Sherritt, Lisa Fletcher, Kathy Doane, Carly Tamborski, Bill Furbee, Nicole Browning, Madeline Christmas, Tera Michelson
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Matthew J. Capps, Stephanie Meinberg, Brianna Richardson Photography, Janie Jones
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Josh Govero
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard
As the year comes to a close, we’re grateful for the many projects we’ve completed over the past 12 months. From installing new decks to adding patio covers to replacing siding, our favorite part of the job is building relationships with the wonderful people who welcomed us into their homes. Transforming a house or backyard—bringing a vision to life—is something we take to heart. We are honored by the trust placed in us and proud of the results we achieved every time.
We wish you happy holidays and a wonderful new year!
Matthew J. Capps
city scene
1: The 10th annual Major Darren Baldwin Green Beret Golf Classic, held @OBannonCreekGolf. 2: @CincyNature getting hands-on during the groundbreaking for their new Field Station at Long Branch Farm and Trails. 3: Attending the The Drive & Empower event hosted by BMW & the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium, with @TheBMWStoreCincinnati. 4: All the star-studded contestants at @Nest.CLC’s annual Dancing with the Stars event on October 11th. 5: Executive Director Linda Bergholz and President Connie Rotterman cut the ribbon @LifeFoodPantry’s brandnew location. 6: Loveland High School students visited the Care Center, helping greet visitors and prepare food. 7: The Return of the Frogman festival, a huge hit for @CityOfLovelandOH—see you next Leap Year!
ASHLEY CUNNINGHAM
KATHY DOANE
8: Veronique Hammons, owner of @GalleryVeronique, hosted an art show for Maya Eventov, October 18–19. 9: The WiseWay and Lighting & Plumbing (one) of Cincinnati team enjoying their influencer event. 10: The drinks were flowing @RoseBoutiqueWineBar as new members of the @LMRChamberAlliance mixed and mingled. 11: Launch party for the all-new 2025 BMW X3 held @TheBMWStoreCincinnati. 12: All the Cincinnati publishers pose for a quick picture at the launch party for @IndianHill.CityLifestyle. 13: Thanks, everyone, for posting Halloween photos on our Facebook page—we love these galaxy defenders! 14: Go Grease Lighting! The @LivingWithMotionChiro team celebrated Halloween in full, costumed style.
MATTHEW J. CAPPS
Furnace on the fritz?
We offer fast, reliable emergency heating services to keep you warm, no matter what.
When your furnace breaks down, you need help right away. Our team of licensed, qualified technicians are equipped to handle all makes and models, providing top-notch service that gets your heat back on track. With us, you’re getting more than a quick fix— you’re getting trusted experts who care about your comfort.
Don’t wait for a breakdown! Regular, yearly maintenance can prevent costly repairs and increase your furnace’s lifespan, saving you money in the long run. A seasonal furnace tune-up ensures your system is ready to keep you cozy and efficient all winter.
Come Fly With Me
Weary of the hassles of commercial flights? Discover Flight Solutions, a luxury private travel company, now offering a limited number of ownership shares in three locally based aircraft. It’s the ultimate in convenience for both business and pleasure travel—Flight Solutions simplifies the process and reduces travel time, managing custom travel from door to door. It’s time to change the way you travel. Learn more about Flight Solutions’ services and ownership in private aircraft. FlightSolution.com
Cooking Up Something New
O’Bannon Creek, Loveland’s member-owned golf club, welcomed a new executive chef this fall—Amy Main has been honing her cooking craft since she was a teenager and is now at the helm of the club’s restaurant. Marianne Utz Sahms, director of golf and administration, says that she believes Amy will help pivot their dining experience “from pubstyle food to fine dining and all points in between.” O’Bannon Creek is excited to savor Amy’s talents this season!
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Come Alive
Body Alive is a fresh, fun fitness studio with locations across Ohio that strives to make everyone feel alive and inspired. And now they’re open in Loveland! Body Alive Lagree provides an accessible low-impact yet high-intensity workout on their impressive Lagree machines. They offer single-class credits if you want to try it out before committing, as well as unlimited memberships. “You can always count on a good sweat and shake!” says instructor Ali Butler.
We can’t help you with your Christmas shopping, but when it comes to a bright smile, glowing skin or a restful night’s sleep … we’re your team. We do it all—from routine cleanings to advanced procedures like implants, veneers and Invisalign to erasing wrinkles and fine lines. Or if snoring is disrupting a good night’s sleep, we offer low-maintenance sleep solutions (FDA Approved Oral Appliances).
Scan to read more
Interested in facial aesthetics including Botox, dermal fillers and whitening? Give us a call. Contact us today. We can’t wait to meet you. cincismiles.com 513.248.8848 | 5722 Signal Hill Ct, Milford
RINGING in the SEASON
’Tis the season … to be madly in love and ready to put a ring on it. Even better, Chris Tillery from Facet Jewelry explains the differences between natural versus lab-grown diamonds, so you can make a decision that shines for a lifetime. Visit Facet to see the differences for yourself, shop engagement rings, or create a custom design. Congrats!
FORMATION:
GIVE ME A SQUEEZE
Natural Diamonds form deep within the earth’s mantle under extreme pressure and high temperatures over the course of billions of years. They’re created from carbon atoms that crystallize together in a specific arrangement, resulting in the hardness and brilliance associated with these precious stones.
Lab-Grown Diamonds are produced in controlled environments, over weeks, using advanced technological processes. The two primary methods are HPHT (high pressure, high temperature) and CVD (chemical vapor deposition). Both processes mimic the conditions in which natural diamonds form.
PROPERTIES:
WE HAVE CHEMISTRY
Natural and Lab-Grown Diamonds are both composed of carbon, share identical physical and chemical properties, the same refractive index and hardness.
VALUE & PRICING: YOU’RE SIMPLY PRICELESS
Natural Diamonds have historically held significant market value— influenced by rarity, market demand and personal attachment. Over time, their value can appreciate, especially for high-quality stones. However, natural diamonds can be more expensive than their lab-grown counterparts.
Lab-Grown Diamonds ’ abundance and rapid production rates contribute to their lower market value when compared to natural diamonds. However, some consumers may view this as a disadvantage, as lab-grown diamonds do not carry the same historical significance and rarity that natural ones do.
PREFERENCES:
I CHOOSE YOU
Some individuals prioritize the traditional allure, rich history and investment in natural diamonds— while others appreciate the affordability and environmental benefits of lab-grown diamonds. Both hold their own charm and significance. Both make great gifts (hint).
ShopFacet.com 505 Chamber Dr, Milford | 513.753.3121
ARTICLE BY CHRIS SHERRITT PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Natural or LabGrown Diamond Ring? Unwrapping the Differences.
Natural Diamond
Lab-Grown Diamond
Deck the Mantel
A FIREPLACE FINISH THAT RADIATES THE SEASON’S WARMTH AND JOY
Curling up by the fireplace with a warm cup of deliciousness is one of life’s best little pleasures. During the holidays, that charm only grows when your mantel is decorated with florals, berries and twinkling lights—creating a cozy, festive atmosphere.
But decorating for the holidays should feel inviting, exciting, not overwhelming—and it shouldn’t break the bank. Hesitant to transform your everyday mantel into a seasonal masterpiece? Sarah Schumacher, owner of Sarah Nicole Redesign, offers simple, practical decorating tips for a swoon-worthy showpiece.
A Loveland resident and interior decorator, Sarah specializes in giving homes a fresh, modern update by working with what her clients already own. She even helps clients create beautiful holiday-centric spaces through tablescape design, tree decorating, hearth and mantel styling, and festive front door and porch décor.
“Our designs are personal,” Sarah explains. “We blend clients’ existing holiday pieces with new ones to provide a practical approach to interior design.”
For a classic Christmas mantel, Sarah suggests using items most of us already have on hand, like pine, berries and bells. Start with a simple base, and then add layers as you go. Want to add a stylish pop? This year’s seasonal shades include deep reds, burgundy and other jewel tones, with bows serving as a trendy, decorative touch.
Her final advice—don’t overthink it! Trust your instincts and enjoy the process. Your mantel should be a reflection of who you are and what you love. After all, beauty is in the eye of the beholder.
ARTICLE BY LISA FLETCHER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MATTHEW J. CAPPS
merry & bright masterpiece
1/ Ground your décor with a centerpiece that defines your space. For this design, Sarah chose Norfolk Pine Natural Touch Garland, and recommends buying more than you think you need—she used nearly 30 feet for a full, lush effect. 2/ Incorporate layers to add depth and interest. Sarah used magnolia leaves, berry stems, and a rich red ribbon to achieve this. 3/ Bring in warmth and ambiance with lighting. Simple white string lights entwined through the garland are an easy option, but candles or LED lights work well, too. 4/ Infuse personality and creativity! Sarah achieved this by adding cascading frosted berries and sleigh bells for pops of color and playful charm.
SarahNicoleRedesign.com | 513.284.2664
1/ Select an Anchor.
2/ Add Texture.
3/ Add Lighting.
4/ Add Whimsy.
SHEL F LIFE
The moment the wall clock hits 10 a.m. on a Tuesday morning, the line of early birds waiting outside the Loveland LIFE Food
Pantry begins coming through the front door. Each person takes a seat as volunteers and clients exchange cheerful greetings. One person hurries forward to get registered and be shopper No. 1. A few minutes later, she and a volunteer push through the swinging doors, grab a cart, and head down the first aisle filled with shelves of groceries.
That scene alone represents the world of change that has happened at LIFE Food Pantry since moving in September to its new location in Shoppers Haven (effectively just a few doors down from their former space). Executive Director Linda Bergholz can’t help smiling as she gives me a tour, eagerly talking about how the new space has transformed the pantry’s ability to serve its local clients.
Loveland’s LIFE Food Pantry Has a Choice New Location
ARTICLE BY KATHY DOANE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MATTHEW J. CAPPS
WHAT PROBLEMS HAS THE MOVE SOLVED?
We needed more space for storage and inventory because of the increase in the number of people we serve. We have room for more freezers and refrigerators. Another great thing is that we now have a waiting room, too—so people no longer have to wait in their cars or stand outside until it’s their turn to shop, which can be very tough in the extreme heat or cold.
HOW MUCH MORE SPACE DO YOU HAVE NOW?
A lot! This is our third location. From 1988 until 2020, we operated out of Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in around 200 square feet. In 2020, we moved to 1485 square feet in a space at the other end of this shopping plaza, but after about six months, it became clear—that wasn’t big enough. This new space, which is four large rooms, has 4900 square feet.
IT’S SET UP LIKE A REGULAR GROCERY STORE. WHAT ARE SOME OF THE SPECIAL FEATURES?
Most important is that we are a choice food pantry where people get to make their own selections—rather than receive a prepackaged bag of food. We also have a food sensitivity section for people who need gluten-free or nut-free items. A senior section has bags of specialty products of Ensure and smaller cans of food. And that’s just the start.
DO I SEE A DRUGSTORE SECTION AT THE BACK?
Yes, with cold medications, household and personal care items that are donated. It’s lighter because I don’t spend money out of our food budget, except for toilet paper. That’s a necessity for everyone!
CONTINUED >
Linda Bergholz, Executive Director
“Of all the things in our life we get to choose, we ought to be able to choose what we fuel our bodies with.”
— Linda Bergholz
WHAT ARE POPULAR ITEMS THAT ARE IN SHORT SUPPLY?
It changes from week to week, and we always put a list of our most urgent needs on Facebook, our website and Instagram. This time of year, spices fly off the shelves. For our clients, spices are expensive, but they like to bake, so things like cinnamon and allspice, even sugar, salt and pepper are necessary. Vanilla is very hard to come by.
WHAT HAPPENS IN THE TWO LARGE ROOMS BEHIND THE GROCERY?
That’s where we do all of our intake and store deliveries that come in through the back dock. A short hallway in the corner allows us to restock the freezers and refrigerators through the back, just like they do at Kroger! The other room has prepackaged bags of different kinds—weekend food packages for school kids to take home, bags for our homeless population, and those that our volunteers deliver to our Pantry Pals (clients who are unable to get to the pantry for a variety of reasons, including the elderly, infirm and disabled). We also keep supplies there for our school backpack project.
I IMAGINE THE HOLIDAYS THIS MONTH ARE A PARTICULARLY BUSY TIME?
Oh, yes! We already kicked things off before Thanksgiving, but this month, we’ll host our Giving Shop, Dec. 9–10, held at the Masonic Lodge on Lebanon Road—where one member of our registered households can shop for gifts for everyone in the family. Then it gets really busy here at the pantry when people who have registered can come pick up holiday meal bags, which starts Dec. 14. They can get Christmas, Hanukkah or Kwanza bags, whatever they celebrate.
IT MUST BE DIFFICULT TO SEE SO MANY PEOPLE WHO ARE STRUGGLING. WHAT KEEPS YOU GOING?
I have so many examples … the young woman who came in and announced it was her last visit because she had gotten a job. The little boy who opened his backpack and got so excited when he saw a toothbrush— the first time he’d had his own. We want our clients to have dignity and feel respected … and to get what they need.
LIFEFoodPantry.org 677 Loveland-Madeira Rd, Loveland 513.583.8222
Connie Rotterman, President
Butter Olive Oil Hollandaise Sauce
the cherry on top
PUTTING A TWIST ON HOLIDAY SALADS THIS SEASON
ARTICLE BY CARLY TAMBORSKI
PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEPHANIE MEINBERG
Your great-aunt’s candied yams. The infamous Jell-O fruit salad. Grandma’s fruitcake (comedian Jim Gaffigan has well-known opinions on that festive fiasco—worth looking up). Long-standing traditions aside, holiday meals often feature special dishes for the sake of nostalgia and not necessarily taste. Thankfully, we’ve got a friend in the flavor business—Melanie Cedargren of The Spicy Olive. Melanie started her own local stores after visiting Italy and realizing olive oils back in the States were lacking in flavor, freshness and natural health benefits. Now, home cooks and aficionados alike can shop her tasting emporiums for fine oils and vinegars, recipes and more … and most important, jazz up that ho-hum side dish with this fresh, tasty take on a seasonal salad that’s fit to elevate any holiday feast.
ingredients
• 1 package mixed greens
• 1 package fresh arugula
• 1/3 cup dried tart cherries
• 1/3 cup crumbled feta (or gorgonzola or goat cheese)
• 1 apple, thinly sliced
• 1/3 cup toasted pecans or walnuts
• 1 tbsp The Spicy Olive’s Champagne and Roasted Garlic Mustard
• 1/4 cup The Spicy Olive’s Montmorency Cherry Rosé White Balsamic Vinegar
• 1/4 cup The Spicy Olive’s Persian Lime Olive Oil
directions
1. Mix salad greens and arugula in a large bowl.
2. Top with dried cherries, crumbled cheese, apple slices and nuts.
3. In a small bowl, whisk mustard into Cherry Rosé Balsamic. Drizzle in Persian Lime Olive Oil while whisking to incorporate.
4. Pour dressing over salad; toss well to evenly coat.
Talk about merry and bright!
TheSpicyOlive.com 9901 Montgomery Rd, Cincinnati | 513.376.9061
THE SPICY OLIVE’S MONTMORENCY CHERRY SALAD
Resort-style retirement living is a gift you can enjoy year-round! With a calendar full of fun events, three chef-prepared meals daily, and 24/7 service all included for just one monthly price, you could be getting the most out of your retirement. Give yourself the gift of easy living this holiday season.
HOW ONE LONGTIME BAKER CONTINUES TO SHINE
Confections and Community
ARTICLE BY BILL FURBEE
Photo by Matthew J. Capps
Photo provided by the Loveland Legacy Foundation
Photo provided by the Loveland Legacy Foundation
“Baking is a way for me to use my love of art and bring a smile to others.”
“I started baking when I was very little,” says Maddie Feder. “On library days in school, others would check out stories or novels … I’d check out cookbooks.”
Her passion for baking would continue to grow over the years, and today, she says the kitchen can also serve as a distraction. “From pain, from illness, from stress … from life.”
Maddie, who graduated from Loveland High School in 2017, has Ehlers Danlos Syndrome. The condition affects her connective tissue and joints, which in turn impacts her mobility and ability to move swiftly about, especially in the kitchen.
But that hasn’t stopped her from crafting culinary treats and irresistible confections.
“I’ve had to learn to do things from a sitting position,” she explains, regarding her need to better position appliances. “Everything that was so automatic to me in the past has had to be relearned. I’ve had to figure out how to do things in a different way … I’m constantly learning new or more efficient ways to do tasks.”
The result? Maddie’s skills in the kitchen haven’t gone unnoticed. She already happily accepts orders from friends, and has enjoyed participating in craft shows as her health allows. “I mostly used my baking in the beginning for fundraising out of my driveway,” she smiles. “All the money I raise or earn either goes toward uncovered medical costs or my service dog, Daisy.”
Then there’s the Loveland community itself, Maddie continues, which has been “amazing and supportive” in championing her work.
Brian Garry, vice president of the Loveland Legacy Foundation, reflects on how this local organization got involved. The nonprofit was able to help Maddie with a grant for training Daisy, but Brian didn’t stop there. “It felt like there was more we could do,” he says. “The more I interacted with her and her family, the more I knew there were some things that would just make life a little easier. Maddie’s parents are like all of us—they just want the best for their kids.”
After visiting the family at home, it was clear to Brian that the house’s current layout and flooring weren’t ideal for Maddie and her wheelchair.
“Kevin Egan and I pulled together a few guys with big hearts and tool belts, and spent a weekend ripping up carpet, laying a new wood laminate flooring, widening doorways, painting, and cleaning up some
trees from their backyard,” he reports. “All with generous financial support from both LLF and several local businesses.”
“The Loveland Legacy Foundation has gone above and beyond to make our house more accessible and the floors easier for me to maneuver on,” Maddie explains. “They even initiated a card, letter and art drive to bring sunshine to my darker days.”
Maddie also credits Eric and Yvonne Boltz from BoltzStrong with providing the support and motivation she needed. “They encouraged me to keep baking, despite my disability.” The couple introduced her to their own fully handicap-accessible kitchen at their Boltz to Nutz Farm, which Maddie describes as having moving cabinets, a roll-under oven and stove, and adapted cooking utensils. Maddie plans to continue as a volunteer there, and possibly even teach a baking class or two in the future.
Because for Maddie, it’s about giving back to the community with the talents she has.
“Baking is a way for me to use my love of art and bring a smile to others. I’m always surprised by what I’ll be asked to make, so it’s a fun challenge ... it keeps things new and interesting.”
Her advice for anyone apprehensive of taking on new kitchen projects?
“Just have fun knowing that you’ll bring a smile to someone you love,” she says with a smile of her own.
“I often hear people say, ‘I can’t bake,’ and then I find out it’s because something was estimated, or skipped, or replaced,” she explains. “When cooking, it can be a lot easier to make up recipes and amounts as you go, or to simply replace things, and it turns out just fine sometimes.”
But baking, she says, is a science. “Exact measurements are very important, and I suggest reading through a recipe before you even start.”
“Patience is key!” Which includes watching Maddie’s Facebook page for the occasional pop-up sale or open online ordering for her confectionary creations.
Most important, she explains, is to understand that kitchen perfection isn’t an all-important endgoal. “It’s okay if it’s not perfect … it’s the thought that counts,” she says. “My joy comes from the happiness or satisfaction of others.”
LovelandLegacyFoundation.org
... and the Loveland community itself, which has been amazing and supportive in championing her work. “ ”
Photo provided by the Loveland Legacy Foundation
Photo provided by the Loveland Legacy Foundation
Maddie with her family, photo by Matthew J. Capps
Cast Iron Kitchen Sinks
9583 Fields Ertel Rd Loveland, OH 45140 513 278 4001 store wisewaysupply com
ARTICLE BY NICOLE BROWNING
1. FOUNTAIN SQUARE
Party (or skate!) on the Square, with fireworks at 8p and midnight. MyFountainSquare.com
2. THE BELLE AND THE BEAR
Dance your night away at Montgomery’s favorite music bar. TheBelleAndTheBear.com
3. CINCINNATI ZOO & BOTANICAL GARDEN
Party animals of all ages can walk on the wild side at Happy Zoo Year. CincinnatiZoo.org
4. CINCINNATI CYCLONES Indoor fireworks? Puck drops at 6p, booming good time to follow. CyclonesHockey.com
5. RODI ITALIAN
Reserve your spot for a decadent night of fine food and bubbly. RodiItalian.com
Photo by Sawicki Photography
Photo by JM Wolf
Photo by Cincinnati Cyclones
Photo by Rodi Italian
Making Spirits
JOIN OUR MISSION TO SPREAD WARMTH AND COMPASSION BY NOMINATING SOMEONE WHO DESERVES A CHRISTMAS BLESSING
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way.”
As the Christmas season approaches, we’re reminded of the power of community and kindness. This year, through City Lifestyle’s nonprofit, The Kingdom Building Foundation, we will help people who may be struggling quietly without the support they need. But we need your help to find them.
Over the past three years, this campaign has grown into something truly beautiful, touching the lives of more than 150 families nationwide last year alone. Each year, we’ve seen firsthand how generosity can bring relief, hope, and a renewed sense of faith in others.
One person we had the opportunity to help was an 11-year-old boy diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. After he had to undergo chemotherapy and surgery to remove his eye, his doctors recommended a prosthetic one, but insurance wouldn’t cover the cost, calling it “cosmetic.” When we heard his story, we knew we had to help. Because of this campaign, he got his prosthetic eye and a piece of his childhood back with it.
Another was a wife and mother of two who fought a yearlong health battle and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Just days before Christmas, she underwent surgery but passed away due to complications. Before her surgery, she received one of our cards and, in tears, told us this gift gave her some peace, knowing her family would have help in the difficult times ahead. It wasn’t just about the financial support but knowing that someone cared.
These stories remind us why this campaign is so meaningful. It’s not just
about writing checks; it’s about telling people they aren’t forgotten and that someone is there to lend a hand. It’s about giving families a moment of relief when the world feels unbearable.
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”
Together with Matthew Perry, President, Steven adds that the gratitude from recipients was overwhelming, affirming this tradition’s importance. “We believe God has blessed our company with success,” Matthew adds, “so we want to be a blessing to others.”
We know many more people could use a little help this Christmas, and that’s where you come in. Do you know someone who could use a blessing? We want to hear about them.
To nominate someone, scan the QR code or follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the form in our bio. Nominations are open from November 27 to December 10, 2024. Let’s bring hope to those who need it most.
The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized. All entries will be read, and selections and the amount given to each recipient will be based on the severity of the need. For more information, visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.org
ARTICLE BY TERA MICHELSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRIANNA RICHARDSON PHOTOGRAPHY
Up Wrap It
PRO TIPS TO MAKE HOLIDAY GIFT-GIVING SPARKLE AND SHINE
Some argue that the best gifts come in small packages, while others claim the most memorable presents come under gigantic bows. One thing’s for certain— when it comes to holiday gift giving, presentation matters. Which is why we turned to professional gift wrapper Amber Blakley, founder of Westfield Wrapper, for her tips on making your holiday gifts stand out this season.
STOCK A WRAPPING STATION
Prepare a designated space for wrapping, and stock it with quality tools. “The essential tools are very sharp scissors, double-sided tape and wire-edged ribbons,” says Amber. “The thickness of the paper is important as well. You don't want it to be too thin or too bulky—find something in the middle.”
ADORN PACKAGES WITH EMBELLISHMENTS
Next, think about attaching surprising decorations to the outside of packages. For the holidays, Amber recommends adding sprigs of greenery, flowers or berry stems. “Where I go above and beyond is with the embellishment,” she shares, a signature secret. “I’ve used dried orange slices, lace or even pockets cut from jeans—all custom touches I like to do.”
SAVE THE SCRAPS
Don’t toss your snippets—keep a box of wrapping scraps to craft special decorations for packages. “You can do so many things with paper scraps—fans, bows, pinwheels, gift tags,” Amber offers. “I also make what I call ‘Rip Wraps’ … pieces of paper sewn together into custom gift bags. They can be any shape or size.” And make a perfect patchwork parcel.
CONTINUED >
KNOW YOUR AUDIENCE
Kids, spouses, neighbors—each relationship requires a unique gifting look and approach. Amber admits her best ideas come from learning about the gift receiver—knowing their favorite colors and styles gives her a unique insight into creating a delightful package tailored just to them.
“I have the recipient in mind,” she explains. “I'm not just churning out the same thing over and over again. I want to make sure it’s something special. For instance, for small kids, I use less and more visible tape to help them open quickly.”
But from Amber’s perspective, it’s all about the spirit of giving. “As long as you wrap with love, that’s what really matters,” she adds with a smile.
ALL ABOUT THE PRO
Amber is a professional gift wrapper for hire with a year-round menu of custom services. She wraps personal, corporate and bulk gifts, arranges client appreciation gift-wrapping stations as well as decorative displays for businesses. She also offers special events, parties and team-building workshops.
Amber thoughtfully considers each gifter and receiver, working to match the occasion, theme and color scheme with a delightful wrapping that makes each present special.
“I’m a helper at heart,” Amber admits. “I enjoy doing anything I can to lift a burden from someone who either doesn’t have the time or can’t do it, but still thinks it’s important.”
Amber’s woman-owned small business, Westfield Wrapper, blossomed during the isolation of the pandemic days, helping people connect and celebrate with loved ones. But her skills gained national recognition when she competed on QVC’s Ultimate Gift Wrapping Challenge in 2023. Her pretty packages are worth the look (and the holiday inspiration) online.
Westfield.Wrapper@gmail.com | @Westfield.Wrapper
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE
JONES
The Naughty List
INGREDIENTS
• Bronson’s Original Punch 2oz
• Laird’s Applejack 1oz
• El Guapo Creole Orgeat .50oz
• El Guapo Holiday Bitters 6 dashes
• Cranberry Juice 2oz.
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Combine all ingredients, shake vigorously and pour over crushed ice.
2. Garnish with lemon wheel & cranberries.
As one of the nation’s leading mental health centers, we understand your journey is deeply personal. Bringing together unparalleled expertise, profound insights, and a people-first approach, we provide life-changing care and support, infusing every interaction with the underlying belief that lasting well-being is possible. We see beyond diagnoses — we see you.
Children • Adolescents • Adults
DECEMBER 5TH - 29TH
Light In the Forest
Cincinnati Nature Center at Rowe Woods
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. Select dates, advanced tickets required. CincyNature.org/program/light-in-the-forest
DECEMBER 7TH
Loveland Christmas Tree Lighting Festival
Historic Downtown Loveland | 4:00 PM
It’s a night guaranteed to sleigh at Loveland’s 4th Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Festival! Join us for free, family-friendly festivities, carolers, a winter market, and a spectacular 60-foot tree illumination at 7:45 p.m. After the lighting, enjoy a dazzling drone show by Rozzi Fireworks, food trucks, and more festive entertainment. It promises to be bigger and better than ever! LovinLifeLoveland.com/events/christmas-tree-lighting-festival
DECEMBER 7TH
Gingerbread House Contest
City Hall Loveland | 4:00 PM
Calling all holiday bakers and gingerbread enthusiasts! It’s sugar, spice and everything nice at Loveland’s first-ever Gingerbread House Contest! Display your masterpiece at City Hall during the Christmas Tree Lighting Festival, with public voting from 4-6 p.m. Prizes will be awarded in 3 categories—People’s Choice, Most Creative, and Most Colorful. Register and drop-off by Dec. 6—and bake spirits bright! LovinLifeLoveland.com/events/gingerbread-house-contest
DECEMBER 7TH
Operation Santa
Symmes Township Neighborhoods | 5:00 PM
Symmes Township is wrapping up its Bicentennial celebrations with a festive finale—Operation Santa, presented by Wood & Lamping LLP! Join the famous duo—Mr. and Mrs. Claus, of course—as they cruise through the community, spreading holiday joy and all things merry and bright. It’s a traveling street party that’ll have everyone jingling all the way—bundle up and join the fun! SymmesTownship.org/247/Bicentennial-Events
DECEMBER 9TH - 24TH
QSL End of Year Sale
The Quilter’s Studio of Loveland
It’s the most wonderful time of year to save at The Quilter’s Studio End of Year Sale! Enjoy 30% off all batiks and 50% off Christmas and Halloween fabrics (1/2 yard cuts or more). Select books, patterns and kits will be discounted, too. This annual sale is sew good, you’ll want to stock up for all your future projects! QuiltersStudioOfLoveland.com
DECEMBER 14TH
Christmas in Loveland
Historic Downtown Loveland | 4:00 PM
It’s sure to be a holly jolly good time at Christmas in Loveland! The entire downtown area transforms into a dazzling winter wonderland, brimming with holiday cheer and the all-new Jingle Bell Junction. Enjoy enchanting carriage rides, a live nativity scene, and a visit from Jolly Ol’ St. Nick and Mrs. Claus at the North Pole. Yule be sorry if you miss this tree-mendous event, sponsored by Wolterman Law Office. LMRChamberAlliance.org/events
