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Mother-Daughter Duo, Dr. Greet and Sophie with REYU
As the year winds down and the Gulf breeze softens the edges of our warm days, Our Paradise Coast takes on a special kind of glow. It’s the season of togetherness — where sparkling lights reflect off calm waters, neighbors greet each other a little longer, and gratitude feels as natural as sunshine.
Here, the holidays don’t arrive with snow or frost, but with generosity and heart. From festive fundraisers that support local causes to families volunteering together, our community reminds us that the true beauty of the season lies in giving.
In this issue, we celebrate that spirit — the joy of sharing what we have and who we are. You’ll meet inspiring businesses and locals who make the festive season just that, as well as find ideas to make your celebrations both meaningful and memorable — whether they be Florida-style, or traveling to places beyond our Paradise Coast.
As we move through the holidays, may we all find time to slow down, give generously, and savor the warmth that connects us. After all, that’s what makes this season — and this place — so special.
With gratitude and sunshine,
Jenn & KC (pictured here on Bone Hook's annual Christmas Trolley Ride through Victoria Park last year!)
JENN WIDEBERG, PUBLISHER
@PARADISECOASTCITYLIFESTYLE
December 2025
PUBLISHER
Jenn Wideberg | jenn.wideberg@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
KC Phaneuf | kc.phaneuf@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Lindsey Hickman, Mr. Bites
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Samantha Bloom, Oh Snap! Media. Alexis Borduas, Oh Snap! Media
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Zach Miller
LAYOUT DESIGNER Amanda Schilling
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
Experience the joy of dining with your toes in the sand at our diverse resort restaurants. We welcome both locals and non-overnight guests to savor exceptional cuisine, stunning views, and the relaxing island atmosphere. Visit JWMarcoToday.com to stay “in the know” about special events, promotions, and more!
Scan the QR code with your phone’s camera, or visit jwmarcotoday.com/dining
inside the issue
Christmas
Island
General Manager Missy Milanese, Chef Loren Cogswell, and the entire team at The Marco Island Yacht Club look forward to welcoming back seasonal members and celebrating the holidays and year ahead! Enquire about membership: membership@ marcoislandyachtclub.net
Decor & Staging by Local Arrangement
ADVENTURE IS CALLING
EXCLUSIVE TRIPS
We’ll take you places you never knew existed and offer experiences you won’t find anywhere else.
EFFORTLESS PLANNING
Tell us when you’d like to travel & we’ll take care of the rest – and exceed your expectations every step of the way.
PRICELESS MEMORIES
There’s nothing more valuable than focused time away with the people you love most.
DECEMBER 2025
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Model Caty Ungarean (center) with her mother Maureen at Paradise Coast's September Style Party 2: Ladies enjoying festivities at Paradise Coast's September Style Party at Naples Fashion Week Collective! 3: Models John Strand and Piper Arielle with Drs. Drew and Kanema and Dr. Simone Gold 4: Shobana Singh (Shama Boutique), Amanda Jaron (Bayshore Arts District), and Barbara Daltorio enjoy the party! 5: Martinizing Cleaners Team had a great time at The Naples Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament! 6: The Naples Chamber of Commerce Team at their annual Golf Tournament at The Strand! 7: Jay Grant-Wright (L), Manager of Events & Landen Collins (R), Director of Brand Engagement at The Chamber.
ALEXIS BORDUAS, OH SNAP! MEDIA
ALEXIS BORDUAS, OH SNAP! MEDIA
ALEXIS BORDUAS, OH SNAP! MEDIA
ALEXIS BORDUAS, OH SNAP! MEDIA
PCCL STAFF
PCCL STAFF PCCL STAFF
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The Rose House Naples
The Rose House Naples is a boutique culinary company offering premium catering, private chef services, dinner experiences, and cooking classes across Southwest Florida. Founded in 2023 and led by chefs with global training, they specialize in custom menus using seasonal ingredients, tailoring each event to client tastes. Their hands-on approach ensures seamless execution and unforgettable dining moments.
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Gulf Coast Law PA
Ciara Lister, founder of Gulf Coast Law PA, has called Naples, Florida, home for over 20 years. Her deep-rooted connection to the area drives her commitment to serving her friends, family, and neighbors with exceptional legal services. Ciara is a distinguished member of both the Florida and Nevada Bar. With extensive experience in estate planning, real estate transactions, HOA law, and business law, Ciara is well-equipped to handle a range of legal matters with expertise.
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T's City Chic
Teresa Smith is a 50+ Lifestyle influencer empowering and mentoring the ageless style and beauty of midlife women. Teresa has generated a large following on social media platforms through the passion and care she puts into her content. She has cultivated an audience that trusts in the brands, services, and products Teresa represents. Sharing travel experiences, favorite wine, food, and more. Teresa’s content is always creative, informative, and fun!
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Photography Provided by The Rose House Naples
Photography Provided by Gulf Coast Law PA
Photography Provided by T's City Chic
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COMPLIMENTARY ADMISSION
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GUEST
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Share the experience — guests are welcome to join the tasting fun. Members may bring guests to bi-monthly tastings for $30 per guest
TWO GUEST PASSES to the Maddox (May 1-October 31) Monthly membership options
ONE PERSON MEMBERSHIP
one time initiation fee of $200. $50/month
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Holiday Traditions, A Coastal Twist
Christmas Island Style: Bringing Holiday Magic to Marco Island
Every December on Marco Island, the air becomes electric—not because of chills, but in anticipation. The community waits for Christmas Island Style (CIS) to transform its parks, streets, and waterways into scenes of wonder and togetherness.
ORIGINS & MISSION
Founded in 1987 by Dawn Norgren, Christmas Island Style was born from a simple but powerful idea: to bring Christmas—and everything it signifies—to the entire island community in ways that go beyond simply hanging decorations. Dave Rice took over the helm 1999 – 2003, Steve Stefanides 2004 –2020 and Wanda Burson since 2021. The mission: to unite Marco Island residents through a season of shared joy, laughter, and tradition.
WHAT THEY DO
Christmas Island Style isn’t just one event; it’s an entire season. Among the signature events:
• Annual Christmas Island Style Golf Tournament; launches the season and supports all upcoming events.
• Ho-Ho-Ho Raise Some Dough; a fundraising soirée supporting all the upcoming seasonal events.
• Santa’s Arrival by Marco Island Fire Rescue Fire Truck; November 28th 5:00pm at Marco Island Academy
ARTICLE BY PCCL STAFF
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY CHRISTMAS ISLAND STYLE
• Tree Lighting and Community Celebration; December 6th 6:00pm in Veterans Community Park
• Canine Pet Parade; December 9th 5:30pm at the Esplanade
• Annual Street Parade; December 13th 6:30pm on San Marco Road from Balfour to Barfield
• Holiday Movie in the Park; December 19th 5:30pm at Veterans’ Community Park
• Annual Boat Parade; December 20th 6:00pm (Marco River west of the Jolley Bridge, Collier Bay and Smokehouse Bay);
• Cookies & Milk with Santa and Mrs. Claus; December 20th 10:00am arriving at Mackle Park via helicopter
COMMUNITY & IMPACT
These events create moments that become annual touchstones— memories people expect and plan their lives around. For many, seeing the lights go up or bringing children or grandchildren to
the boat and street parade becomes part of what “home” feels like. All the events are free to the public. There is no cost to participants in the parades or spectators at the events. CIS is a volunteer organization that relies on the monetary support of fundraising and donations. There’s also a charitable component: The Street Parade, for example, invites participants to bring unwrapped toys for needy children. By doing so, CIS ensures that the holiday spirit includes “giving” as well as festivity.
CHALLENGES & GROWTH
No story of community celebration is without hurdles. Organizing all events requires coordination, funds, permits, and volunteers. Each year,
CIS manages logistics (float safety, parade routes, marine safety in the boat parade), and adapts to changing conditions. But the organization’s longevity along with support from the City’s Parks & Recreation Department, Public Works Department, Marco Island Police Department and Marco Island Fire Rescue suggests it has built effective systems and strong community goodwill. Condee Cooling & Electric has been a strong supporter of CIS over the years.
In a place of beaches, sunshine, and boats, Christmas Island Style proves that holiday magic does not require snow. It merely needs intention, caring hearts, and shared space. And on Marco Island, Christmas Island Style delivers that every year!
Santa escorted by Marco Island Fire Department
The Annual Boat Parade
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Christmas AT THE CLUB
ARTICLE BY PCCL STAFF
PHOTOGRAPHY BY SAMANTHA BLOOM, OH SNAP! MEDIA
As the holiday season approaches, the Marco Island Yacht Club (MIYC) invites members and guests to experience festive celebrations, new culinary offerings, and a full calendar of social and boating-friendly activities in the year ahead.
For those looking to spend the holidays in style, MIYC has become a standout venue in their recently renovated and historic location: across the waterfront dining room and outdoor terrace, the club’s social calendar shines with special seasonal events. The club’s holiday parties include a spirited Ugly Holiday Sweater contest, the annually anticipated Christmas Boat Parade, an elegant Christmas Eve dinner, and a high-glam New Year’s Eve Gala. With panoramic views of the river and the bridge, the setting offers a warmyet-refined backdrop for gatherings of friends, families and colleagues.
MIYC is proudly led by General Manager Missy Milanese and Executive Chef Loren Cogswell, whose leadership has elevated both the hospitality and dining experiences at the club. Together, they’ve created an atmosphere that’s both elegant and welcoming — where every member feels at home and every meal feels special.
Executive Chef Loren Cogswell brings over 17 years of fine dining experience in the Caymans and Naples to the club’s kitchens. His seasonally inspired menus emphasize fresh local ingredients, offering everything from light, health-minded lunches to sophisticated dinners paired with outstanding wines. While the exact new dishes are evolving daily, Chef Cogswell and his team have indicated a creative approach that blends regional seafood, produce and global flavours—perfect for holiday fêtes and regular club dining alike.
Beyond festive dinners, MIYC’s calendar offers something for everyone with a vibrant calendar of private member events, defining island living — from elegant galas to relaxed evenings on the terrace:
• Weekly favorites: Live music in the Courtyard every Tuesday, Wine & Dine dinners, Twilight Golf, Bridge Club, Car Club, Fishing Club, Book Club, and more.
• Signature celebrations: Member traditions such as the Ugly Christmas Sweater Party, New Year’s Eve Gala, Valentine’s Dinner Dance, and the Commodore’s Ball highlight the spirit of the season.
• Casual gatherings: Enjoy laid-back socials and outdoor courtyard evenings at the Burgee Bar, where every sunset feels like an event of its own.
For those who love the open water, MIYC offers an impressive boating and cruising program designed to celebrate the island’s maritime lifestyle:
• Cruising options: From sunset cruises and day excursions to multi-day voyages to destinations like the Florida Keys and the Bahamas.
• Past highlights: The Circumnavigation Cruise of Marco Island and overnight trips to Hawks Cay and Key West.
“FOR
THOSE LOOKING TO spend the holidays IN STYLE,”
• Traditions: The annual Blessing of the Fleet — a signature parade of vessels followed by live music and waterfront dining — returns on March 29, 2025.
No boat? No problem. Full and Equity members can join many boating activities even without owning a vessel.
The MIYC Youth Sailing Program, led by Sailing Director Caroline Hugo, continues to flourish as one of the club’s proudest achievements — and one that’s open to the public. The program welcomes students in grades 6–12 through its High School Sailing Team, open to all interested participants — no prior experience required. Alongside this, the Youth Sailing Program provides hands-on instruction and skill development for beginners and experienced young sailors alike — ensuring the next generation of sailors will continue MIYC’s proud maritime legacy.
For those interested in reserving holiday events or learning more about joining as a guest, the club encourages early bookings as prime dates fill quickly. With a refreshed chef-led menu and a social calendar brimming with variety, MIYC stands ready to make this holiday season one to remember!
The elegant Harbour Room is perfect for weddings and larger social events.
Enquire about membership with Eric (L) at membership@marcoislandyachtclub.net
Jingled Elves
ENRICHING THE LIVES OF WOMEN AND CHILDREN THROUGH FESTIVE FUN
ARTICLE BY PCCL STAFF
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JINGLED ELVES, INC.
In the sun-drenched city of Naples, a group of spirited women don Santa hats, dance tracks and trolleys—and transform themselves into something far more than seasonal revelers. They are the members of Jingled Elves, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to enriching the lives of women and children in Collier County through festive fun.
The story began with an idea from Founder, Donna Issenman: combine the cheer of the holidays with serious fundraising for local philanthropy, supporting charities serving women and children in need.
The mission is playful on the surface—elves in trolleys doing flash mobs—but the underlying impact is serious. Their grant program invites nonprofit organizations in Collier County that serve women and/or children to apply. Grants are awarded after nomination by participants and sponsors, review by the Grants Committee, and a vote by registered participants.
The highlight of the year for Jingled Elves is their annual Trolley Tour & Party. This year's event is scheduled for Wednesday, December 10, from 4:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at The Green at Mercato in Naples. Participants board decorated trolleys, hop from location to location—generally in stylish Naples settings—and break out into choreographed holiday routines. It’s equal parts dance party, holiday shuttle and philanthropic mission. In past years, the event has included flash mobs at places such as Sugden Plaza in downtown Naples.
While the trolleys and red T-shirts suggest light-hearted fun, the impact is tangible. Jingled Elves operate with the transparency of a registered 501(c)(3) charity (EIN 85-0852417) and solicit tax-deductible donations and sponsorships. They’ve made strong community strides:
• The Grants Committee process ensures awarded funds go to focused projects supporting women and children in Collier County.
• Local nonprofits have praised the impact: a testimonial from Youth Haven notes that the Jingled Elves are “a wonderful asset to our community, spreading joy and holiday cheer.”
• In 2024, the Collier Community Foundation recognized Jingled Elves with their Excellence in Civic Leadership award—attesting to the group’s measurable community impact.
Their fundraising model combines fun-and-festivity with serious charity:
• The annual Trolley Tour & Party is the flagship event. Registration includes a trolley ride, dancing, and festive stops. For example, the 2025 registration page had an option to ride a trolley, join a flash mob, and select a T-shirt size.
• Sponsorships from local businesses bolster the event’s capacity and support the grant funds.
• “Shop & Share” events, corporate contributions, and individual donations round out the revenue streams.
• Grant applications open each year, with a deadline (for example September 26, 2025) and a structured timeline.
Jingled Elves are more than donors and dancers—they’re community builders. Their events are intentionally inclusive and spirited, bringing together women of Naples and surrounding areas who want to make a difference and have fun doing it. The flash mob style performances, festive attire, and public stops around town turn charity into a lively, entertaining experience.
Moreover, the organization helps highlight smaller nonprofits that might otherwise get overlooked. As one news article put it: they focus on “raising awareness of smaller charities people don’t know about.”
In a region blessed with natural beauty and resort-style affluence, the needs of women and children still demand attention: from shelters, tutoring programs, crisis services, and more. Jingled Elves offer a unique approach: they use civic engagement, local culture, timing (holiday season), and innovative event formats to mobilize funds and awareness.
For nonprofits, it means access to funding, visibility, and a happy partnership with a positive brand. For participants, it means combining social fun with philanthropy. For the Naples community, it means more resources directed toward those who need them—wrapped up in holiday color and joy.
Registration for the next Trolley Tour is already open. If you’re a local, a business, or a charitable organization serving women and children in Collier County, here’s how you can get involved:
• Participants: Sign up for the tour, join the flash mob, ride the trolley, wear the gear, spread cheer. • Sponsors: Partner with slogans, logos, and support that help the event succeed and expand.
• Nonprofit Applicants: If you serve women and/or children in Collier County, consider applying for a grant (via nomination) during the application window.
• Donors: Contributions to the fund are tax-deductible and go toward tangible projects approved by the committee.
In Naples, “elves” are not just the little helpers from the North Pole—here they’re grown women with a mission. The Jingled Elves make the holiday season more than merry; they make it meaningful. Through the Trolley Tour, the flash mobs, the public spectacle, they shine a spotlight on women’s and children’s causes in Collier County and deliver resources where they matter most. Their energy transforms Naples—not just into a winter wonderland—but into a community that gives, dances, and changes lives.
"I love being part of such an enthusiastic, generous
of women...and, we all have a voice in
and FUN group
selecting the organizations to receive funds each year!"
LAURA DONOVAN, COO
Journey across Tennessee, Missouri, and Kentucky to discover dazzling lights, holiday shows, and sweet treats.
Winter Road Trips Lead to Festive Memories
Whether you’re looking for dazzling lights, world-class entertainment, or family traditions, here are three unforgettable holiday experiences perfect for your family’s seasonal adventures. Each destination offers a unique way to celebrate from the Smokies to the Ozarks to Kentucky, no matter which direction you head.
ARTICLE BY LINDSEY HICKMAN
Dollywood – Smoky Mountain Christmas
As Dollywood celebrates its 40th anniversary season, the award-winning Smoky Mountain Christmas presented by Humana continues its reign as one of the nation’s most beloved holiday festivals. With more than six million lights, Broadway-caliber shows, and immersive areas like Glacier Ridge and Wildwood Grove, the entire 160-acre park becomes a sparkling wonderland. Guests can enjoy culinary favorites like red velvet funnel cakes and the famous Grist Mill cinnamon bread, or watch artisans craft keepsakes. Add in nightly fireworks, festive rides, and the warmth of the Smoky Mountain setting, and Dollywood’s Christmas celebration offers something truly magical for families of all ages. dollywood.com
Silver Dollar City – An Old Time Christmas
Branson’s Silver Dollar City transforms into a glowing Ozark wonderland with more than 6.5 million lights and over 1,000 decorated trees. At its heart, an 80-foot animated Christmas tree dazzles Town Square every evening. Guests can stroll through Christmas In Midtown®, enjoy the final year of Rudolph’s Holly Jolly™ Parade, and see Broadway-style productions like A Dickens’ Christmas Carol. Artisans showcase handcrafted gifts while holiday buffets serve prime rib and cinnamon bread. With coasters, a living nativity, and even a Frisco Sing-Along Steam Train, An Old Time Christmas offers families the perfect mix of timeless tradition and modern holiday magic. silverdollarcity.com
Kentucky Kingdom – Christmas at Kentucky Kingdom
Louisville’s Kentucky Kingdom brings winter thrills to life with its immersive festival, Christmas at Kentucky Kingdom: Bright Lights, Wonder Nights!. The centerpiece is Blizzard Bluff, Kentucky’s largest real snow tubing hill, surrounded by over 1.5 million lights and 300 Christmas trees. Families can explore themed zones like Classic Christmas, Holly Jolly™ Junction featuring Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer®, and Santa’s Village with its 60-foot light tunnel. Seasonal shows, festive foods, and snow play for kids round out the fun. With select rides open, nightly tree lightings, and New Year’s Eve fireworks, this growing holiday tradition delivers excitement and heartwarming experiences for all ages. kentuckykingdom.com
“From
sparkling displays to unforgettable performances and timeless family moments, these three holiday getaways promise magical memories for all ages. Each destination brings its own special charm to the season - whether you venture to the Smoky Mountains, the Ozarks, or the heart of Kentucky, joy and wonder await wherever you go.”
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From bold ideas to established enterprises, our city blends innovation, collaboration, and quality of life in perfect balance. Here, opportunity doesn’t just grow, it flourishes. The Greater Naples Chamber connects leaders and entrepreneurs who are shaping the future of Collier County because when business meets paradise, anything is possible.
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Phone: +1 239 393-2910
Cell: +239 986-1013
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ARTICLE BY MR. BITES
We Are Family - Dining
The big question is...where do you take your roving pack when they visit for the holidays? This month we take a look at the best places in town for larger family groups.
First up, we have Sea Salt. The freshest seafood is the star at this classic fine dining establishment. They’ve got the best oysters in town, a grilled octopus with a perfect char and the most skillfully prepared branzino in the area. For the adults in the group, they have an excellently curated wine list that doesn’t rely on the standard California Cabs, and their gin martini with a twist is the most elegant in town. There’s no better small private room in town to host an ad-hoc family reunion.
For those of you with little ones who require room to roam, The Mini Bar should serve your needs nicely. Just a few blocks up from tony 5th Avenue South, it features long picnic tables for group seating, a covered bar on one end, plenty of
TVs, and some lawn games. Food-wise, it has great variety for everyone in the family. A personal favorite is the kick’n chicken, a classic spicy fried buffalo style chicken sandwich that comes three to a plate.
Finally, for those long days on the boat when the hunger sets in, there’s no better place than the legendary Island Gypsy on the Isle of Capri. Once you’ve disembarked your vessel, walk up the short pier to be greeted by Old Florida. You’ve got all the family friendly classics here including Grammy Mammy’s fish sandwich, Fandango Mango Salad, the Locally World Famous Grouper Sandwich and enough burgers and fries and gluten free options to keep your pickiest family members happy. Regardless of your dinner, do NOT miss their Carrot cake, which should actually be world famous.
Yours in deliciousness, Mr. Bites
Even at its hottest and most humid, Naples has a constant flood of families chasing sunsets, sand and the sea. When the sun’s gone down and the boat's back at the dock, it’s time to get something to eat and the holiday season is when this happens most!
Sea Salt Island Gypsy
Mini Bar
A full-scale classic Grand Opera production where freedom, passion, and jealousy collide.
December 7, 2025 Hayes Hall, Artis–Naples
Operatic Scenes in Disguise Operatic Scenes in Disguise Masked Moments of Opera Masked Moments of Opera
March 5, 2026
Daniels Pavilion, Artis–Naples
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.
Emily James Art
Visit a Native Floridian Artist’s Gallery Today
INGREDIENTS:
• 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.
Emily has received recognition of her talent through numerous awards and honors. She is the only artist in the United States selected by the top three fine art publishers, and two of her images have been among the top 50 selling prints worldwide. Emily was also selected as an Outstanding American Woman in the Arts, and is a signature member of the Florida Watercolor Society, being featured in the book, ‘The Best of Watercolor’. With her acrylics and oils on canvas, Emily has also received numerous Bestin-Show ribbons. Known for her versatility in both subject and style, she enjoys painting landscapes, seascapes, abstracts, contemporary works, and portraits. Emily specializes in creating custom artwork with the feeling, colors, and subjects the owner will enjoy viewing.
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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Celebrate winter in the tropics! This beloved annual tradition is here, blooming bright and offering a seasonal staple that is distinctly Southwest Florida. Stroll the Garden illuminated in thousands of lights. Enjoy live music each night, photo ops, a living bromeliad tree, and festive treats and drinks for purchase.
DECEMBER 4TH
Beyond the Bookshelf: Luncheon with Maria Shriver
Grey Oaks Country Club 2400 Grey Oaks Dr N, Naples, FL 34105 | 12:00 PM
Attend a very special luncheon with Maria Shriver sponsored by Grace Place For Children & Families. Maria is an award winning journalist, bestselling author, and passionate advocate for women, families, and brain health, using her voice to champion education, resilience, and opportunity for all. Tickets can be purchased by visiting www.Beyond2025.Givesmart.com
DECEMBER 4TH
Bayshore District Annual Holiday Tree Lighting
3321 Bayshore Dr. Naples, FL | 5:30 PM
The Bayshore District kicks off the holiday season with a stunning holiday tree lighting and festival that will illuminate the district in festive cheer! Bring your loved ones for an unforgettable night of art, food, music, and holiday magic in Naples’ most vibrant waterfront district. Live outdoor concert, Outdoor holiday movie, Photos with Santa & Mrs. Claus, Holiday Market shopping
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DECEMBER 5TH
Naples Woman's Club Holiday Pop-Up Shops
570 Park Street Naples, FL | 10:00 AM
A shopping event to fund scholarships in the arts. This event is open to the public (perhaps with an optional $5 donation to the scholarship fund). Live music, edible gifts, flowers, clothing, jewelry, art, and more will make for a fun day in downtown Naples.
DECEMBER 6TH
Jewish Federation of Greater Naples Matzah Ball 2025
4720 Pine Ridge Rd. Naples, FL | 7:00 PM
The Hanukkah ball will take place on Saturday, December 6th from 7:00 pm –11:00 pm at the Nina Iser Cultural Center. Come join more than one hundred patrons between the ages of 21- 55 years of age to dance the night away. This year's theme is "Let's Play". Attendees will celebrate Hanukkah and enjoy games, delicious cuisine, dancing, and photography
DECEMBER 7TH
Carmen Opera with Naples Philharmonic
Hayes Hall, Artis - Naples, FL | 7:00 PM
Carmen unfolds in 1830s Seville, where freedom, passion, and jealousy collide. This locally produced grand opera boasts 10 world class soloists, a chorus of 65, ages 8 to 80 accompanied by full orchestra. The production honors Bizet’s original spirit with traditional Spanish scenery, richly hued costumes, and bold visuals that capture the fiery soul of this famous opera.
DECEMBER 10TH
Jingled Elves Annual Trolley Tour
The Green at Mercato, 9110 Strada Place Naples, FL | 4:00 PM
Jingled Elves Trolley Tour raises money each year for charities focused on improving the lives of women and children in Collier County. Come and join the fun and purchase tickets or become a sponsor at www.jingledelves.org
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MARCO ISLAND YACHT CLUB
The newly renovated spectacular Marco Island Yacht Club is alive and well. Your social club for the Island! Offering something for everyone. Happy hours, live music, sunset cruises, day cruises, wine and dine nights, parties and themed events, boater’s night, holiday specials, and so much more!
