D E C E M B E R 2 02 3
E L E G A N T- U N I Q U E - F U N C T I O N A L
B AT H R O O M S • K I TC H E N S • M A S T E R S U I T E S
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LIFESTYLE LETTER
Generosity
December 2023 PUBLISHER
Cooper Moore | cooper.moore@citylifestyle.com EDITOR IAL COOR DINATOR
Victoria Moore | Victoria.Moore@citylifestyle.com
The holidays are upon us. A time when some of us who are extremely fortunate get the opportunity to be with loved ones and exchange gifts. It's one of my favorite things about this time of the year. I love giving and receiving gifts. I love the opportunity to show my loved ones how much they mean to me by spending extra time and giving them a gift, but the other thing I love to see is the heart of generosity infecting nearly everyone. Some people are just flat generous. It's a character trait of who they are. It doesn't take the season changing or a commercial starring a famous person asking for their time or money, but it is just what they do. It's truly inspiring to see people who are generous year-round, but this time of year brings it out in everyone. In this issue, we have the opportunity to give you ideas for gift buying for your loved ones, but also we get the opportunity to share how some of our friends use their gifts to give back to others year-round. I hope this issue inspires you like it has inspired and challenged me to be a little bit more generous throughout the year. From Victoria, Teddi (our daughter coming March 2024) and myself, have a merry and bright holiday season!
COOPER MOORE, PUBLISHER @MISSIONHILLSCITYLIFESTYLE
CONTR IBUTING WR ITER
Emily Cassimatis CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER
Rian Stallbaumer
Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman
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Proverbs 3:5-6 Mission Hills City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Mission Hills area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Mission Hills City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered
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DECEMBER 2023
inside the issue The Holidays & Giving Issue
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F E ATU R E D
D E PA RTM E NTS
13 Holiday Gift Guide
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Lifestyle Letter
8
City Scene
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Business Monthly
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Gift Guide S HO PPI NG
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Giving Back LI FE + C U LT U R E
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Trend Setter A RTS + C U LT U R E
22 DIY Holiday Gifting
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Hosting Tips FO O D + B EV ER AG E
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Locals Only LI FE + C U LT U R E
26 Holiday Entertaining Boards
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Events
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Inspired By A RTS + C U LT U R E
Make spirits bright with the perfect gift from TIVOL
18 Generosity is in Style
Natalie M. Studio imparts the values of generosity and service on its customers and community
If you are looking for the perfect appetizer to easily feed a crowd these simple and beautiful boards are sure to please.
O N T H E C OV E R
Photography: Jill DiMartino, courtesy of Crown Center Mayor’s Christmas Tree at Crown Center
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GABBY HARDESTY
2 BELLA PATINA
7 BELLA PATINA
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GABBY HARDESTY
BELLA PATINA
BELLA PATINA
1: She's Health Conscious celebrated its launch with a day of wellness at the Springhill Farmhouse. 2: Refreshments and different stations were designed to promote health and relaxation. 3: Massages and yoga classes were offered for the attendees. 5: A Christmas takeover at a popular antique shop in Kansas City 7: Hundreds of shoppers visited Bella Patina in the West Bottoms for their Holiday Vintage Revival
Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @missionhillscitylifestyle
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C I T Y SC E N E
DECEMBER 2023
business monthly A round-up of exciting news from local businesses. Natural looking brows created from your bone structure.
Mission Hills City Lifestyle recognized for "Best Abstract Cover"
BRING BACK YOUR CONFIDENCE!
The premiere cover of Mission Hills City Lifestyle was one of five covers recognized for uniqueness and excellence in City Lifestyle's Fall Quarterly magazine. The July issue featured the work of Kansas City artist and photographer Jessica Roark, who was also awarded "Best Art Photography" in the best photo category. These pictures were selected out of 172 publications, 516 covers and thousands of photographs. Read more about Jessica Roark's fine art at c i t y l i fe s t y l e . c o m /m i s s i o n h i l l s/ issues/2023-07 Photography Jessica Roark
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Located in the heart of Crossroads Arts District. Ask about our "MISSION" special.
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Mission welcomes a LEGO toy store All the pieces fit together for a national LEGO resale store to plant its first location in Kansas, just in time for the holiday season. Bricks and Minifigs opened for business on November 4 in downtown Mission and sells resealed and retired LEGO sets, as well as bulk LEGO pieces and minifigures. Event space is available for birthday parties and special events. Learn more by visiting bricks andminifigs.com/mission-ks/.
Jessica Roark Fine Art
EE D DATAT @SHOPJORJY | SHOPJORJY.COM F EEAT ATUURR
320 W. 63RD STREET, KCMO 64113
Overland Park clothing boutique revamping into women's book store Known for their classic, fashionable selections, The Pretty Posy in downtown Overland Park is taking a new approach with the same name. Instead of clothing, owner Erin Oliva will be stocking her shelves with locally and nationally known books written for women, by women. The store will also sell different kinds of gifts for women. The changes are already in the works with the new store set to open later this year.
Available for purchase
@JESSICAROARK.ART
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JESSICAROARK.ART
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HOLIDAY
GU CONTINUED > D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/MI S S I O N HI L L S
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2023 GIFT GUIDE FROM
T I VO L
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G IF T GU ID E | SHOPPIN G
Make spirits bright with the perfect gift from TIVOL As Kansas City’s oldest family-owned jeweler, we know a thing or two about what your loved ones really want under the tree. From luxury timepieces to tennis bracelets that will be cherished for years to come, fine jewelry is the ideal gift to mark a moment as it becomes a memory.
Gifts for Her The Classics: When in doubt, get her diamonds! There are few other gifts that are as timeless as a shining pair of diamond studs or an elegant tennis bracelet. Quintessential for any jewelry collection at any age, these are our go-to’s when you aren’t sure what to give! On Trend: Pearls are back in a bold way! The sophistication and elegance they exude align perfectly with the quiet luxury trend that’s been growing in popularity all year.
Gifts for Him The Classics: Luxury timepieces mark the significance of the present moment and are enduring reminders of special occasions, in addition to being sleek and stylish. On Trend: Stacking jewelry isn’t just for the ladies! Add a diamond curb link bracelet or beaded bracelet to elevate the classic timepiece. Visit our two locations, Country Club Plaza and Hawthorne Plaza this holiday season, or visit us online at tivol.com to find the perfect gift for everyone on your list.
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Generosity is in
Style
Natalie M. Studio imparts the values of generosity and service on its customers and community ARTICLE BY VICTORIA MOORE | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
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G IV IN G BAC K | L IFE + CULTURE
Bella Whitlock received a grant to provide smoke detectors to at risk families.
Lindsey Maschler, KT Gates and Jennifer Maschler have been dressed by Carson since they were young.
Since the beginning, Natalie M. Studio has been dedicated to empowering people of all ages to feel their best by looking their best. But beyond the beautiful gowns and dapper tuxedos, this premiere fashion destination also prioritizes its value for people in the way it gives back to the community. Its founder Natalie Nearenberg wove this precedent into the very framework of Natalie M. 50 years ago, a value pushed forward by the current owner Lisa Carson. “I feel a profound sense of responsibility to continue that legacy of service,” she said. “Truth be told, it brings me a great deal of joy to do so.” Carson took over in 2010 after her youngest daughter participated in the Natalie M. Foundation Benefit Fashion Show. She saw the confidence her daughter gained by being involved and knew this was the business for her.
“My goal has stayed constant–to make a positive impact on the people who trust us to dress them for the best days of their lives and to make a positive impact on the community at large,” Carson said. The girls who become a part of the Natalie M. family are challenged to make this their goal as well. Carson regularly holds events for these young ladies to brainstorm and collaborate on ways they can personally serve their community and apply for grants to help. Many organizations have benefited from their work–Alzheimer’s research, the Kansas City Pet Project, Llamas for Leukemia, and Harvesters to name a few. But when the holiday season approaches, Carson cannot help but kick it up a notch. “We are entering a season of giving. Many of our initiatives focus on giving people hope and independence because
Style Squad Member and Grant Recipient Cyan Kelly works to serve the Homeless population in her community.
those are things that we are passionate about,” Carson said. “Now we are gearing up for our annual Toys For Tots drive, and we just kicked off a campaign called “Help Her Walk Away” to benefit Newhouse KC, a domestic violence shelter.” Authenticity in character and beauty is a defining factor of Natalie M. Studio, and bringing those qualities out in people is Carson’s greatest passion. “That might mean looking your best on your wedding day or on a pageant stage. It might mean looking for mentorship for your own community service initiative. It might mean an internship to learn about fashion merchandising. Whatever we do, the goal is to bring out the best in each person and every situation,” Carson said.
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G IV IN G BAC K | L IFE + CULTURE
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DIY HOLIDAY GIFTING Cookie Mix
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY LEANN PARKER
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T R E N D SE T T E R | L IFE + C ULTURE
Hot Cocoa
DIY Jar gifts are a thoughtful way to share holiday cheer this season. These particular jar gifts require JUST ADD WATER as instructions for an easy homemade gift that anyone would love to receive. CONTINUED > D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/MI S S I O N HI L L S
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Breakfast Jar
COOKIE MIX JAR
POTPOURRI JAR
• store bought cookie mix (labeled add water only). Include instructions to add water and bake (use amount and bake time as instructed on the package you purchased).
• pine cones • dried or fresh greens • dried citrus • cinnamon sticks • star anise • whole cloves Add instructions to place contents into a pot on the stove with 8 cups of water. Simmer low for a wonderful holiday aroma.
HOT COCOA JAR • hot cocoa mix • chocolate chips • mini marshmallows Instructions: over stove top, bring water (or milk) to a simmer. Add cocoa mix and stir until chocolate chips have melted. Top with marshmallows. Enjoy!
BREAKFAST JAR • pancake mix • maple syrup Include instructions to add water and bake (use amount and bake time as instructed on the package you purchased). Top with warmed maple syrup.
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T R E N D SE T T E R | L IFE + C ULTURE
CANDLE JAR • Floating candle • Greens • Dried citrus and berries Add water to the jar and light candle to enjoy on a dark winter night. LeAnn can’t wait to see what you create and give to your family and friends. Tag her on IG @silvertoothhome and #silvertoothhome so she can share. Happy Holidays!
Potpourri Jar
Candle Jar
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Holiday Entertaining Boards The holidays are here and entertaining is in full swing. If you are looking for the perfect appetizer to easily feed a crowd these simple and beautiful boards are sure to please.
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
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H OST IN G T IP S | FOOD + BE VE RAGE
Holiday Wreath Charcuterie Board • • • • •
Fig Jelly Honey Variety of Cheeses Salami or meat of choice Olives (provide a variety)
• Walnuts, Pecans, Pistachios and any favorite nut • Grapes, berries, persimmon • Crackers
Place the jars of sauces and olives on the board first. Next place the cheeses on opposing sides. Add meats and fruits next. Layer in crackers, nuts and seeds and fill in any spots with extra nuts. Use fresh Rosemary or fresh greenery to add wreath accent in the center of the charcuterie board. Garnish with fresh cranberries. CONTINUED >
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Sweet Treat Cocoa Board • • • • • • • • •
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A variety of fresh berries or desired fruit Marshmallows Hot Cocoa Mix Chocolate Covered Pretzels Chocolate Covered Cherries Chocolate Covered Graham Crackers Chocolate Covered Biscotti Hot Cocoa Bomb Holiday Cookie Cutter
H OST IN G T IP S | FOOD + BE VE RAGE
Place your favorite holiday cookie cutter on the board first. Fill the cookie cutter with mini marshmallows. Next, layer the large items first. Begin with the chocolate covered Biscotti and build around that using berries. Pile the berries high. Next add a variety of chocolate covered treats on opposite sides of each other between the mounds of berries. Be sure to add touches of berries around the edges. If space allows, place hot cocoa on board. Otherwise, set bowl full of hot cocoa mix and any additional hot cocoa fixings adjacent to the board.
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The City Lifestyle
Giving Campaign
2023 30
LOCA LS ON LY | L IFE + CULTURE
“
This Giving Campaign is all 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.”
The annual City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is in its 4th year. Last holiday season we gave away over $300,000 to help 116 individuals and families in need, but we need your help to make it happen again this year. With nominations flooding in from community members and leaders such as judges, police officers, teachers, nurses, social workers, mentors and readers like you, we were able to reach people who might otherwise go unnoticed. Perhaps you know of a single parent struggling to provide for their family, an elderly person who has experienced loss, someone enduring a health issue, a co-worker suffering a sudden, unexpected tragedy or a neighbor with a financial hardship who has fallen between the cracks of getting assistance. Chances are you know someone with a specific need, even if no one else does. “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 during this holiday season.” “We believe God has blessed our company with continued success, so we in turn want to be a blessing to others,” Matthew Perry, President of City Lifestyle adds. City Lifestyle has also enacted an internal giving program whereby every employee in the company receives $100 to give away to someone in the community. “The idea is to encourage our employees to keep giving on their own,” Steven says. “Taking care of one another and blessing others is truly rewarding and it perpetuates a cycle of giving. It’s extremely important to me as a person and as a company to foster a culture of generosity.”
Scan Code to
Nominate Nominations accepted Nov. 27 – Dec. 10, 2023
Follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram for reminders! To submit a nomination, follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram and fill out the form found in the bio link. All entries will be read, and because this is not a raffle, there is no need to nominate someone more than once. The amount given to each recipient will be based on need. All nominations and recipients will be kept confidential. D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/MI S S I O N HI L L S
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DECEMBER 2023
events A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.
E V E RY DAY IN D E C E M BE R
36th Annual Christmas in the Park
EVE RY DAY IN D E C E M BE R
Holiday Reflections at Union Station
E V E RY DAY IN D E C E M BE R C LO S E D ON C H RIST M AS .
Crown Center Ice Terrace
E V ERY W E E K E N D T H RO UG H C HRIST M AS
WE E K E N D S IN D E C E M BE R IN C LUD IN G T HURS DAYS
DE C E M BE R 9 T H
FRAN K W HITE J R . S OFTBALL C O MP L E X | 5 :30 P M Witness the magic of the holiday season come alive during the 36th Annual Christmas in the Park drivethrough experience. Open from now until the end of December, the Frank White Jr. Softball Complex features more than one million lights and 200 animated displays. Admission is free, but donations are accepted. Learn more about open hours at www.jacksongov.org/Events-directory/36th-Annual-Christmas-In-The-Park.
U NION STATION | 10:00 AM Union Station’s walkthrough holiday village is back and bigger than ever! New this year, Holiday Reflections will feature Fountain Forest, an illuminated indoor fountain and spectacular liquid fireworks show set to the beat of favorite holiday songs. Take in the familiar sights and sounds of Kansas City’s largest indoor holiday experience! Tickets are available online at www.artskcgo.com/event/holiday-reflections/.
CROW N CEN TER S QUAR E | 10:0 0 A M Crown Center Ice Terrace is in the midst of its 51st year of operation! Make lasting memories with family and friends on Kansas City's original outdoor ice skating rink. Tickets are $9 for ages 4 and above with skate rentals available. Visit www.crowncenter.com/iceterrace to learn more about lessons, group rates and open hours.
Merry Market
CITY MAR KET | 10:00 AM Every weekend in December, the River Market is full of gifts, giving and good cheer. Merry Market has something for everyone, including food and drink tastings, artisan crafts and live holiday music. Don't miss a whimsical interpretation of Kansas City in miniature cookie form called Gingerbread Lane. More details are available online at thecitymarketkc.org/events/.
The Nutcracker - Kansas City Ballet
KAUFFMAN CEN TER FOR THE P E R F O R MI NG A RTS | 7 :30 P M A classic through the ages - The Nutcracker injects childlike wonder into the Christmas season through dance and familiar symphony. An annual tradition for the Kansas City Ballet, tickets are available for shows every weekend until Christmas Eve. Visit kcballet.org/events/the-nutcracker/ to get yours!
Westport Christmas Market
WESTPORT, KAN SAS CITY | 9:00 A M Embrace time with friends and family as you shop for locally-made gifts and holiday decor at the Westport Christmas Market! This annual event transforms the streets of Westport into a winter wonderland filled with music, festive treats and cheer. Plan your outing by visiting westportkcmo.com/westport-christmas-market/.
Want to be featured?
Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/MissionHills
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Talking Generosity with DJ Gar-V Local DJ is humbled to give back to the city that gave him his professional start
ARTICLE BY RYAN GARVEY | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED WHY IS GIVING BACK TO YOUR CITY SO IMPORTANT TO YOU? I like giving back to Kansas City because it has supported me through thick and thin. I keep running into people and hearing "Aren't You DJ Gar-V?" You want to talk about being humbled -- being called your stage name by people you don't even know. I clearly made a good and lasting impression on them to be remembered.
Kids Can Create are organizations where I donate entertainment at their selected events.
OF ALL YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS, WHAT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? I am most proud, humbled and honored to be invited back each year to continue doing events for these organizations. It just says I am making a difference, well-liked and everyone had a good time!
WHAT OPPORTUNITIES HAVE YOU HAD TO BE GENEROUS THROUGH YOUR BUSINESS?
IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE YOU'D LIKE TO SAY ABOUT GIVING BACK?
The Autism Awareness Society of The Heartland, The Kelsey Smith Foundation, Second Chance Outdoors For Veterans, Street Style Dance Academy, Pet Resource Center of Kansas City, KC Pet Project, Operation Breakthrough and Kingdom
Don't force something that you aren't able to show. Life is expensive and life is hard. Be generous to yourself, put in the hard work, get ahead of the curve and THEN if it is in the cards for you to give back, you will feel it when you see the opportunity.
“It means ever y thing to be looked at as an example of someone who has been blessed to make it where I am in my profession, yet show that I wear my hear t on my sleeve.”
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I NSP IR E D BY | L IFE + CULTURE
CIALOMA