We design custom homes throughout the state, including homes on Grand Lake and Lake Tenkiller. It’s important to meet with all our clients on their property and to help them visualize how their new home will be designed to fit their lot.
For over 35 years, Brent Gibson Classic Home Design has been the premier residential custom home designer for Edmond, Oklahoma City and throughout the state, setting high standards of excellence in home design.
To see our 3D Fly Around video of this home and many others that we create, scan our QR code and tour them on our website.
GRAND LAKE LAKE TENKILLER
A Season of Celebration
Hello OKC,
We hope you thoroughly enjoyed the November issue! It was a genuine pleasure to celebrate the power of the Bible and shine a spotlight on the incredible, Oklahoma-based YouVersion Bible App as they reached their one billionth download. That kind of global impact originating right here in our community is truly inspiring, and we were honored to share that story with you.
Now, as the crisp winter air settles in and the lights begin to twinkle, we officially turn our hearts toward December. This is the time of year when we celebrate family, community, giving, and, most importantly, the true reason for the season.
As always, this issue is packed with the local highlights you love. We have curated fantastic holiday ideas— that will bring cheer to the whole family. But perhaps one of our most fascinating features this month explores the impact of Route 66 on our state and how technology is helping modern explorers navigate this historic road. With the centennial celebration of the Mother Road approaching in 2026, it's a perfect time to appreciate this icon of American culture and its deep ties to Oklahoma.
While you are out finding those perfect gifts and planning your holiday outings, we have a gentle but important reminder: please shop local! The unique spirit of OKC is driven by our small businesses, and every dollar spent in our local shops is a direct investment in the vitality of our neighborhood. They rely on our support, especially during this crucial season.
Finally, we want to express our deepest thanks. We are incredibly grateful for you, our loyal monthly readers, and for the commitment of our advertisers who make this magazine possible. And a heartfelt thank you goes out to the talented, dedicated team behind the scenes at City Lifestyle—your passion and hard work shine through every page.
We wish you and your loved ones a beautiful, peaceful, and blessed holiday season.
“Now may the Lord of peace himself give you his peace at all times and in every situation. The Lord be with you all.” – 2 Thessalonians 3:16 NLT
Be blessed,
December 2025
PUBLISHER
Jimmy Darden | jimmy.darden@citylifestyle.com 405.541.5650
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
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city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1-7: Guests immerse themselves in the company of paintings by Oklahoma artist James Bond, who debuted his first solo exhibition, titled In the Company of Paintings, at Uncanny Art House. Bond’s paintings capture fleeting moments and extend them into site-responsive works. In this immersive exhibition, those moments coalesce into a moody, 1920s-inspired world where paintings don’t just hang, they inhabit the room with the viewer. The show exhibited throughout October with several events, including a masquerade featuring jazz collective The Butter & The Genre and an exhibition cocktail formulated by the speakeasy under Scratch Kitchen and Cocktails. Original Artwork by James M. Bond. Exhibition Curation and Design by Zach Barney.
Photography by TJ Van Dyke and Chase Spivey
8: Google Arts & Culture Senior Program Manager Chance Coughenour shares Route 66 demo. 9: (From left to right) Pat Fitzgerald, Surya Tubach, Matt Pinnell, Chance Coughenour 10: Oklahoma Lt. Governor Matt Pinnell 11: Pat Fitzgerald, National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum President & CEO, shares partnership with Google Arts & Culture. 12: Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt welcomes Google Arts & Culture Program Manager Surya Tubach 13: Mayor David Holt with Rhys Martin and Lt. Gov. Matt Pinnell 14: Google Arts & Culture Senior Program Manager Chance Coughenour showing
15: Nearly 100 attended the Route 66 project announcement. 16: Google Arts & Culture Program Manager Surya Tubach 17: Oklahoma Lt. Governor Matt Pinnell at the Route 66, Google Arts & Culture project announcement.
Photography by Google Arts & Culture
business monthly
Quail Creek Bank Spotlight: Bryan Petty
Congratulations to Bryan Petty on his promotion to Chief Lending Officer in May 2025! Bryan started his career with Quail Creek Bank in 2006. After gaining commercial lending experience, he returned in 2015 and quickly became Senior Vice President. A graduate of UCO and the Graduate School of Banking at CU, Bryan is a huge asset to the team and the customers we serve.
Scan to read more
Experience The Enchantment: Oklahoma City Ballet Presents
Oklahoma City Ballet presents the holiday classic, The Nutcracker, presented by Devon Energy and The Chickasaw Nation, December 12-23 at the Civic Center Music Hall. Experience the dazzling new production with 195 exquisite costumes and breathtaking sets! Each of the 14 performances will feature the powerful sounds of live music performed by the Oklahoma City Philharmonic and Canterbury Voices. Last year's reimagined show broke box office records and enchanted over 20,000 people.
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Give the gift of travel this holiday season — a gift that lasts far beyond the holidays. Instead of more “stuff,” give unforgettable experiences, breathtaking views, and stories waiting to be written. Whether it’s a cozy mountain escape, a tropical adventure, or a dream cruise, travel is the perfect way to celebrate the ones you love with memories that will last a lifetime.
Photography by Quail Creek Bank
Photography by Oklahoma City Ballet
Brent Gibson: From Canvas to Classic Homes
Brent Gibson is renowned for capturing the essence of rural life in Western Oklahoma through his admired paintings from 1979 to 1987. Today, he is equally celebrated for his exceptional home designs Influenced by English Tudor and French Country architecture, Gibson’s work brings timeless elegance to his clients' homes. To learn more, visit www.brentgibson.com. Call Brent's office if you would like to pick up a copy (405) 340-1980.
Photography by Brent Gibson
OKC Philharmonic: A Very Merry Pops
The OKC Philharmonic invites all ages to A Very Merry Pops: A FunFilled Family Concert on Saturday, December 6, at 2:00 PM at the Civic Center Music Hall. This special matinee, presented in part of the Chickasaw Nation Pops Series, is designed for families. Enjoy festive live music, whimsical visual storytelling, and magical moments, including cookies with Santa! Music Director Alexander Mickelthwate promises warmth, joy, and cherished holiday memories.
At Implant & Prosthodontic Associates, we are singularly dedicated to providing you the ultimate in personalized restorative care with the goal of achieving your ultimate smile. We invite you to learn more about our practice, our team of world-class doctors, and come see us for a consultation.
Dr. Roberta Wright
Dr. Lars Bouma
Photography by OKC Philharmonic
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE
JONES
Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, these holiday drinks are guaranteed to bring a little extra cheer to your cup.
HOLIDAY COCKTAILS & COZY CREATIONS
BOURBON VANILLA BEAN HOT CHOCOLATE
An ultra-creamy, chocolatey holiday drink with a hit of warm bourbon and a vanilla bean twist.
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
INGREDIENTS:
• 1/2 cup high-quality dark chocolate (chopped or chips)
• 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tbsp sugar or maple syrup
• 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
• Pinch of sea salt
• 2 oz bourbon
Topping: 4 large marshmallows
Optional garnish: grated dark chocolate, whipped cream, cinnamon
INSTRUCTIONS:
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine milk, cream, cocoa powder, sugar, vanilla, and salt. Whisk until smooth and heated through. Add chopped dark chocolate and stir constantly until melted and silky. Lower heat if needed to avoid scorching.Remove from heat, then stir in bourbon. Taste and adjust sweetness or strength to your liking. Top with marshmallows. Add whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg, and shaved chocolate.
Optional: Add a pinch of cinnamon and cayenne for spicy depth
Kid-friendly version: Omit bourbon and add peppermint extract or caramel syrup instead.
SPICED CINNAMON RUM FLIP
A luscious holiday cocktail with warming spices, rich texture, and a beautiful cinnamon garnish.
INGREDIENTS:
• 2 oz dark or spiced rum
• 3/4 oz cinnamon simple syrup
• 1 oz heavy cream
• 1 whole egg
• Dash of ground nutmeg
• Dash of vanilla extract
Garnish: cinnamon stick and a light dusting of nutmeg or cinnamon
INSTRUCTIONS:
Make Cinnamon Simple Syrup:
Combine 1/2 cup sugar, 1/2 cup water, and 2 cinnamon sticks in a saucepan. Simmer for 10 mins, let cool, and strain. Store in the fridge.
Add rum, cinnamon syrup, cream, egg, vanilla, and a pinch of nutmeg to a shaker. Shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds to emulsify the egg. Strain into a coupe or stemmed glass like the one in your photo. Top with a cinnamon stick across the rim and a dusting of nutmeg or cinnamon.
Optional: Add 1/2 oz chilled espresso for a coffee kick.
CONTINUED >
HOLIDAY SPICED GINGERBREAD LATTE
A warm, frothy, and festively spiced drink perfect for winter nights.
INSTRUCTIONS:
INGREDIENTS:
For the latte:
• 1 shot of espresso
• (or 1/2 cup strong
• brewed coffee)
• 3/4 cup milk
• 2 tbsp gingerbread syrup
• Whipped cream
For the gingerbread syrup:
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 tbsp molasses
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1/8 tsp ground cloves
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Optional toppings:
• Ground cinnamon or nutmeg for dusting
• Marshmallow
• Crushed gingerbread cookie around the rim or on top
Make the gingerbread syrup:
In a small saucepan, combine water, brown sugar, molasses, and spices. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract, and let cool. Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Prepare the drink:
Brew your espresso or strong coffee. Heat and froth your milk. In your glass, add 2 tablespoons of the gingerbread syrup. Pour in the espresso, then the steamed milk, stirring gently to combine. Spoon frothed milk or whipped cream on top. Dust with cinnamon or nutmeg.
Optional: Rim the glass with crushed gingerbread cookie crumbs for extra flair.
FESTIVE CRANBERRY GIN FIZZ
A bright, elegant cocktail with a foamy top and a hint of holiday spirit.
• 2 oz gin
• 1 oz cranberry juice
• 3/4 oz lemon juice
• 1/2 oz simple syrup
• 1 egg white
Optional: splash of sparkling water or club soda
Garnish: fresh rosemary or thyme sprig
INSTRUCTIONS:
In a cocktail shaker, combine gin, cranberry juice, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white. Shake vigorously for about 20 seconds to create the frothy top. Double strain into a chilled coupe glass to get that smooth, foamy top. Add a small splash of sparkling water if you’d like a bit of fizz. Gently place a sprig of rosemary or thyme on top of the foam.
TAKE A TRIP DOWN ROUTE 66
with Google Arts & Culture
ARTICLE BY RHYS MARTIN PHOTOGRAPHY BY OKLAHOMA
ROUTE 66 ASSOCIATION
Route 66 is more than just a highway, it’s an American legend. From westward migration to its place in countless songs and movies like the legendary Pixar’s Cars –"The Mother Road" is a living symbol of American culture and history. Beyond the iconic landmarks are the diverse stories of the communities and small businesses that have shaped its past, present, and future.
“The
Mother Road”
Today, in partnership with the National Trust for Historic Preservation, Google Arts & Culture is launching a new theme page dedicated to this historic highway in anticipation of the Centennial of Route 66 next year. We’ll also be launching a brand new Google Arts & Culture experiment that uses AI technology like Veo to bring the Route alive, allowing users to journey through time by animating archival photography, exploring over 30 sites, and listening to AI-generated audio tours.
We’re hoping to broaden the public's understanding of Route 66 by bringing to life the vibrant communities that have been central to its journey. This new hub offers an online archive, featuring stories and collections from over a dozen partners, including state-level Route 66 associations and cultural organizations across the country.
Our partners at the National Trust for Historic Preservation have worked on various projects
revitalizing and preserving pieces of history along Route 66. They also provide a national, cross-country perspective on the role of the Route through the 8 states it runs through:
• Step behind the scenes of the Mother Road with the National Trust for Historic Preservation on their critical efforts to save sites like the Threatt Filling Station in Oklahoma, a historic safe haven for Black travelers during the era of segregation, and the Osterman Filling Station in Arizona, a key cultural center for the Hualapai Tribe. Both sites represent a shift in preservation focus toward telling a more complete, equitable history of Route 66 by supporting the diverse communities (Black and Indigenous) that created essential, yet often overlooked, safe havens and cultural centers along the Mother Road.
• Learn about Route 66’s role in the rise of automobile culture in the US and its impact on the
surrounding economies and communities. The rapid growth of the American automobile—skyrocketing from 450,000 registered vehicles in 1910 to 8 million by 1920—transformed Route 66 from a simple road into an economic engine. This vehicle surge fueled a unique ecosystem of mom-and-pop shops, quirky roadside attractions, motels, and theaters that leveraged their charm to connect disparate communities, creating the iconic American road trip experience and the indelible impact of car culture on the economies along "The Mother Road."
• Explore history, neon signage, and food from the start of the road in Chicago to its conclusion in Santa Monica 2,400 miles later spanning across 8 different states.
• Uncover the role of the road as the great connector between big cities such as St. Louis, Tulsa, and Albuquerque and read about reflections from one particular road trip:In 2018, a team from the National Trust for Historic Preservation hit the asphalt, embarking on a high-stakes road trip down Route 66. This wasn't just a scenic drive; it was a mission to connect with communities,and champion the highway as a critical, endangered American historic resource. The trip captured the authentic spirit of "The Mother Road" and became the initial spark that ignited their push to secure the road’s legacy and share its stories with the world.
We are also shining a spotlight on Oklahoma City, through a dedicated subchapter, celebrating the city’s cultural landscape and vibrant history. Featured partners include the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, the Oklahoma City Museum of Art, and Red Earth, which spotlights Indigenous craftsmanship, history, and artworks in the region. Oklahoma City marks a turning point between east and west for those travelling Route 66, and is the gateway to the Western segment of the road.
The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum tells the story of Route 66 as intricately connected to westward expansion and our collective understanding of “western” culture.
• Discover Indigenous history and culture through the intricate craftsmanship and vibrant artwork highlighted by Red Earth, a non-profit that promotes the arts, cultures and traditions through education of this community.
• Learn about the journeys of photographers and artists such as Joe Andoe inspired by Route 66 featured in the collections of the Oklahoma City Museum of Art.
By bringing these stories online, we hope to preserve the rich history of Route 66 and encourage both American and international audiences to explore these pockets of America. As the nation approaches its 250th birthday next year, come explore with us and discover the heart of this iconic American journey.
Experience Elevated Living
NORTH
Discover timeless craftsmanship in OKC’s premier downtown development near Scissortail Park. Experience luxury living in homes designed for elegance, comfort and an urban lifestyle curated by Randolph Design + Build.
“We’re hoping to broaden the public’s understanding of Route 66 by bringing to life the vibrant communities that have been central to its journey.”
Make Smaller
CRAFTING CHEER: DIY WINTER CRAFTS
ARTICLE BY ERICA BIBB | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
ORNAMENT CLUSTERS
SUPPLIES
• 22 gauge wire
• Ornaments of at least 3 varying shades and sizes
• Wire snips
STEP 1
Cut desired length of wire for a cluster, about 24”
STEP 2
Add an ornament about 4” from one end of the wire and twist the wire around the top of the ornament to provide a base for your cluster. Twist about 5 times. You should still have about 4” of wire at the end; you will need it to tie onto your garland, tree, or wreath.
STEP 3
Continue adding ornaments to the wire, alternating sizes and colors until you have 4-6” of wire remaining.
STEP 4
Twist the remaining wire around the top of your final ornament 5 times to secure all of your ornaments in place. Making sure to leave at least 4” of wire in place at the end in order to tie onto garland, tree, or wreath.
STEP 5
Use the ends of the wire to attach to your holiday item of choice!!
Pro tip: Keep your clusters to the 24” length to keep from getting too heavy and/or having ornaments pop off. Ornaments will pop off at times, but they will still look gorgeous and you can always glue the ornament back onto to the top. Simple, gorgeous, and impactful!
DIY WINTER WREATH
SUPPLIES
• pruning scissors
• grapevine wreath form
• 22 gauge wire
• wire snips
• hot glue gun
• hot glue
• 3 types of fresh cut greens (you can also use artificial and have a wreath that will last you year after year!)
• fresh eucalyptus
• pinecones
• bells or ornaments
• ribbon
STEP 1
Trim greens removing any bald spots and extra length. Lengths of greens should vary between 5-10”.
STEP 2
Create clusters with the greens and eucalyptus, using all 3 of the greens. Create the cluster and then wrap the cluster with the 22 gauge wire onto the grapevine wreath form (starting at the top of your wreath), making sure that the wire is tight. Wrap 5-7 times to ensure everything will stay in place. Do not cut the wire. Set to the side to use for the next cluster.
STEP 3
Continue adding fresh green clusters going down your wreath and slightly alternating the angle the greens are pointing. Finish your final cluster and give yourself 3-4” of additional wire to twist close at the back of the wreath to finish and secure.
SIMPLE GORGEOUS IMPACTFUL
STEP 4
Place ribbon at the end of the clusters to hide any ribbon. We tied a knot with the ribbon around the wreath and then wrapped several times around the wreath.
STEP 5
Tie on ornaments, bells, or pinecones to hang from the wreath. This is optional, you may just want to add a pretty bow or even keep it as is at this point! When tying on the extra baubles, remember to cut your ribbon at varying lengths, so the bells or ornaments can hang at different levels. Tie the 3 ribbons together and then tie as one onto your wreath.
STEP 6
Add desired number of pinecones and put in place with hot glue. You can wire on the pinecones, but I like the control of placement is easier with the hot glue method.
Pro tip: keep taking a step back as you construct your wreath and keep in mind that sometimes less is more. Don’t be afraid to make edits and trust your eye!
For more inspiration visit www.porchandpatioco.com
Christmas at Essentials
Happy Holidays from Essentials! Let us help you fill your stockings and your home with some Holiday Cheer.
LOLLIA
Gift the gift of relaxation with luxurious bubble bath by Lollia. Happy Holidays from Essentials! Let us help you fill your stockings and your home with some Holiday Cheer.
WINTER WONDERLAND BY GLASSHOUSE
Winter Wonderland by Glasshouse - Fill your home with the nostalgic smell of the tree!
Winter Wonderland diffusers and candles by Glasshouse are sure to be a holiday hit.
CÉLESTE BY BAOBAB
Exclusive to Essentials: Baobab’s limited edition Holiday Fragrance is sure to be a crowd pleaser! Adorned with a 24-karat gold and deep blue silk-screen print, the Céleste hand-blown glass vessel evokes the the architecture of the Kraków Cathedral’s celestial vault.
EIGHT NIGHTS’ LIGHT BY LAFCO
Set the scene for gathering with Eight Nights’ Light by Lafco.
NIVEN MORGAN
Your loved ones are sure to enjoy soaps, creams, scrubs, lotions, and home fragrances by Niven Morgan.
NEW VOYAGES COLLECTION BY NEST
New Voyages Collection by Nest will elevate every space.
MOLTON BROWN’S
Molton Brown’s luxury hand washes and creams make the perfect gift for the host and the home!
JACK BLACK
The perfect gift for him. Jack Black creates superior products from shave creams and moisturizer, to hair and body wash.
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
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 >
Sweet Treat Cocoa Board
• 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
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.
The Pastry Board
• Donuts
• Cinnamon Rolls
• French Beignets
• Rosemary sprigs for garnish
Layer board with larger pastries first and layer in with smaller pastry next. Garnish board with holiday sprigs or fresh herbs.
The Veggie Crudite Board
• Cucumbers
• Celery
• Red Peppers
• Tomatoes
• Cauliflower
• Sugar Snap Peas
• A Variety of Veggie Dips
Place three different types of veggie dips on board. Build around the dips by placing your cucumbers and celery in multiple layers as the base. Add red bell peppers and tomatoes around board to add pops of color. Finish by layering cauliflower and sugar snap peas and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
