Issuu

Season's Greetings!

D E C E M B E R 2 02 3

Elevated Design Premium Locations Exceptional Value

Madera

Sentinel at Oro Ridge

Queen Creek, AZ

Approx. 1,880 - 4,850 SQ.FT

2,665 - 3,124 SQ.FT

3-6 Beds | 2-4.5 Baths

3-5 Beds | 2-3 Baths

2-4 Bay garage

2-3 Bay garage

Nature trails, parks, play areas and pool

Nestled in the foothills of the San Tan Mountains

Priced from the high $400k’s

Priced from the mid $500k’s

W TriPointeHomes.com/AZ-homes The prices of our homes, included features, plans, specifications, promotions/incentives, neighborhood build-out and available locations are subject to change without notice. Stated dimensions, square footage and acreage are approximate and should not be used as a representation of any home’s or homesite’s precise or actual size, location or orientation. There is no guarantee that any particular homesite or home will be available. No information or material herein is to be construed to be an offer or solicitation for sale. A Broker/Agent must register their client in person on client’s first visit at each community for a Broker/Agent to receive a commission or referral fee, if available. Not all features and options are available in all homes. Unless otherwise expressly stated, homes do not come with hardscape, landscape, or other decorator items. Any photographs or renderings used herein reflect artists’ conceptions and are for illustrative purposes only. Some amenities may not be constructed. Builder reserves the right to change the size, design, configuration, and location of amenities not yet constructed and does not warrant the suitability thereof for any use or for any person. Builder does not warrant the suitability of any trail for any use or for any person. All sales are conditioned upon buyer’s acceptance of the Final Subdivision Disclosure Report (Public Report) for the Community, which will be posted on the AZ Real Estate Department’s website when issued. Our name and the logos contained herein are registered trademarks of Tri Pointe Homes, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries. © 2023 Tri Pointe Homes Arizona, LLC. AZ Broker, Tri Pointe Homes Arizona Realty, LLC (AZ DRE# LC538443000). Arizona Contractor, Tri Pointe Homes Arizona Construction, LLC (ROC No. 172120). All rights reserved.

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December 2023 PUBLISHER

Kaylee Williams | kaylee.williams@citylifestyle.com EDITOR

Florence Daniels | florence.daniels@citylifestyle.com

LIFESTYLE LETTER

'Tis The Season! As we embrace the holiday season, it fills us with a profound sense of joy to introduce our December issue. This edition is a tribute to the unique warmth and charm that our beautiful state of Arizona brings to this magical time of year. While we may not have snow-covered landscapes, we're blessed with sunny days and a cozy ambiance that's truly our own. In these pages, we dive deep into the heart of what makes the holidays exceptionally meaningful - the precious moments spent with friends and family. It's about coming together around a crackling fire, sharing heartto-heart conversations, and crafting memories that will stay with us for a lifetime. These moments are the real treasures of the season. As we embrace the holiday season in Queen Creek, let's remember those who may be facing challenges. This is a time for compassion and giving back to our wonderful community. Whether it's supporting local charities, helping a family in need, or simply spreading kindness, there are countless ways to make a difference right here in our town. I am immensely proud to be a part of Queen Creek, a community that truly cares and supports one another. Your unwavering support means the world to me. As we celebrate with our loved ones, may this season be filled with love, joy, and the spirit of togetherness. Wishing you the happiest of holidays! With gratitude and warmest wishes,

SOCIAL MEDIA COOR DINATOR

Kimberly Heywood | shademarketingaz@gmail.com CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER S

Jenn Boubelik, Kaeden Peterson

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

K AY L E E W I L L I A M S , P U B L I S H E R @QUEENCREEKCIT Y LIFE S T Y LE

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein AD DESIGNER Josh Govero LAYOUT DESIGNER Evan Deuvall

Learn how to start your own publication at: citylifestyle.com//franchise

Scan QR code to visit our Instagram CIT YLIFEST YLE.COM/QUEENCREEK |

Proverbs 3:5-6 Queen Creek City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Queen Creek 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 Queen Creek City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered

L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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DECEMBER 2023

inside the issue The Holidays & Giving Issue

F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

16 A Threshold to Behold

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Business Monthly

Curb Appeal HO ME + DES I GN

Decor Trends HO ME + DES I GN

Culinary Creations FO O D + B E V E R AG E

Artist’s Palette LI FE + C U LT UR E

Local Limelight AU TO + MA R IN E

Giving Back LI FE + C U LT U R E

Events

Gift Guide S HO PPI NG

Create an entrance that will even have Santa using the door and not the chimney.

20 I'll Be Home for Christmas

Designer Jill Diffendaffer sprinkles Christmas magic throughout the home.

24 Life of the Party

Holiday Hosting Tips from the owner of Boujee Bites & Boards.

28 Home is Where the Heart Is Mary Lokka, local realtor, wife and mom.

O N T H E C OV E R

Photography: Kaeden Peterson Gift atop a dining set. Styled by Jill Diffendaffer.

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DECEMBER 2023

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen. 1

J. BOUBELIK

K. PETERSON

J. BOUBELIK

7 K. PETERSON

K. PETERSON

J. BOUBELIK

1: Children enjoying Fall festivities at Queen Creek's Schnepf Farms. 2: Ribbon cutting ceremony for Nothing Bundt Cakes. 3: Residents partaking in fun and games at the Trunk or Treat event. 4: A lady handing out treats to the families arriving to the Trunk or Treat event. 5: Adults and children alike taking part in the Halloween spirit. 6: Girls posing at the Trot or Treat event fund raiser held by Manes and Miracles. 7: Horses in their Halloween costumes at the Trot or Treat event.

Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @queencreekcitylifestyle

C I T Y SC E N E

I F YO U A R E READING THIS... S O I S YO U R B E S T C L I E N T.

2 OUT OF 3 of our readers regularly purchase from our ads.

ADVERTISE WITH QUEEN CREEK CITY LIFESTYLE™ LEARN MORE AT CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/QUEENCREEK

DECEMBER 2023

business monthly A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

San Tan Memorial Gardens Grand Opening Schnepf Farms celebrated the grand opening of the San Tan Memorial Gardens and Mausoleum. On October 17th, Carrie and Mark Schnepf conducted the official ribbon-cutting ceremony in front of supporters and guests. The cemetery currently has accommodation for 6,000 plots. The grounds are open 24 hours a day and serves all faiths. santanmemorial.com Photography K. Peterson

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/QueenCreek

B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

Signature Store

by Hughes Supply

Soap Freakin Excited Talks Small Business. Soap Freakin Excited got the opportunity to work with the Queen Creek PEO. The PEO is a nonprofit women's organization throughout the US and Canada, dedicated to helping women pursue educational goals. They invited SFE to one of their weekly meetings to give a short presentation on their business, the purpose of handmade soap, but most importantly, the importance of small businesses in the community. soapfreakinexcited.com Photography Soap Freakin Excited

Pieferction Celebrates Grand Opening! Piefection has opened a new location in Queen Creek on Ellsworth Road. The grand opening invited customers to vote for their favorite flavors, win a free pie, and more. There was even a chance to throw a pie at Sheriff Lamb during the celebration. Piefection pie shop has around 30 varieties of pie such as Caramel Apple, German Chocolate, Georgia Peach, as well as savory pot pies and pies by the slice. piefectionaz.com

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Gilbert

Photography F. Daniels

D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/Q UE E N C R E E K

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Merry & Bright

Classic Christmas

Modern Farmhouse

C UR B A P P E A L | HOM E + DE S I GN

ARTICLE BY FLORENCE DANIELS PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNIFER BOUBELIK

Threshold Behold A

Create an instant holiday vibe even before you walk through the door. Brandie DiCosmo and Rachelle Imlay of Sonoran Dreams put together these three stunning looks for the front door of Hagen Farms's Victorian-styled farmhouse in Queen Creek. Brandie advises that you pick out a clear design, drawing inspiration from a photo or image. Don’t be afraid to mix different shades of greenery. Repurpose items from around the house and intermix new and old.

MERRY & BRIGHT Flocked greenery and lots of bright colors set this look apart. The use of wrapped gifts, ornaments and bows creates a whimsical and childlike atmosphere. Brandie says it's 'almost as if you are walking right into Santa’s workshop.'

MODERN FARMHOUSE This look comes together with realistic greenery and a few simple decorations. The large vintage cowbells are a signature item. This is a festive yet timeless look. The colors are more subdued but the warmth and spirit of the holiday are retained.

CLASSIC CHRISTMAS This cozy look mixes vintage with newer items, and plenty of greenery. The use of plaids, decorative pillows, and classic Christmas colors incorporate a more traditional approach. sonorandreamsevents.com

CREATE AN ENTRANCE THAT WILL EVEN HAVE SANTA USING THE DOOR AND NOT THE CHIMNEY. D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/Q UE E N C R E E K

HAP PY HOL IDAYS FR OM R E VE L VE T!

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QUEEN CREEK CITY LIFESTYLE™

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Home for Christmas Designer Jill Diffendaffer sprinkles Christmas magic throughout the home.

ARTICLE BY FLORENCE DANIELS PHOTOGRAPHY BY KAEDEN PETERSON

The cheer and warmth of the season can be found in every room in the house. Smaller spaces like the entryway and even the bedrooms can be included. Here, Jill Diffendaffer of Haven Roese Design displays her expert touches in Tri Pointe’s Madera community model homes, sharing her tips and inspirations.

ENTRYWAY

The entryway displays a small fir tree in a planter beside the front door. Jill enhances the space with some bright gold ornaments in a bowl on a side table along with other decor like a small faux white tree and more florals. This way the decor gives a hint of the colors to come in the Christmas tree.

THE CHRISTMAS TREE

For the tree, Jill kept the color palette between 2-3 colors. She mixed and matched various textures, sizes, and personal ornaments as well. She used wire-edged ribbons in order to better sculpt and shape them. Gaps in the branches were filled with sprays, flowers, and bows. Finally, having set the tone, you can use that same color theme throughout the rest of the house.

D E C OR T R E N D S | HOM E + DE S I GN

JILL DIFFENDAFFER

Interior designer, Jill Diffendaffer, is a native Arizonan, who has loved style and design her whole life. Her company, Haven Roese Design, began two years ago after much encouragement from her friends. She strives to create a peaceful space for her clients' homes that reflect their style and comfort. She takes the stress out of interior design and delivers a home of repose and calm.

DINING

A black charger helps to contrast brightly against the white dishware and a forest green napkin brings color, while the burlap placemat adds a farmhouse touch. Golden candlesticks and a cream colored runner warm up this tablescape with elegance and charm. Decorative words placed on the plate provide an unexpected festive tone.

BEDROOM

Children can express their excitement for the season within their own rooms. Jill retains the whimsy and fun by adding a decorative pillow of Santa on the bed. Instantly, a bit of the holiday spirit is brought in. Small pine trees are dotted around the room and a copy of ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas’ is left open on the desk. For more about Jill and her interior design go to: havenroesedesign.com www.tripointehomes.com D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/Q UE E N C R E E K

‘TIS THE SEASON

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SWEET CREEK boutique

Our boutique offers a wide selection from over 20 local small businesses. We offer a mix of wholesale and one-of-a-kind finds from our talented vendors. From baby items, clothing, body care, bags, home decor, treats and all things gifts.

Sweet Creek is your one stop shop! sweetcreekboutiqueaz.com | 480-501-2253 1542 W Ocotillo Rd, San Tan Valley, AZ D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/Q UE E N C R E E K

LIFE OF THE PARTY Holiday Hosting Tips from the owner of Boujee Bites & Boards. ARTICLE BY FLORENCE DANIELS PHOTOGRAPHY BY KAEDEN PETERSON

C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE

Anna Mae Gliebe is owner of Boujee Bites & Boards, a catering and charcuterie board business. Anna Mae creates artfully arranged boards that are as delicious as they are beautiful. While she can help you with the food side of things through her catering business she also has a few tips for hosting a holiday themed party.

Anna Mae Gliebe

1. STICK TO WHAT YOU KNOW. Don’t try to do it all. Have a favorite recipe or dessert? Great, make that! Play to your strengths but don’t be afraid to get help too. You can order from a local company such as a baker, chef, or even order an appetizer charcuterie board.

Candied cranberries in Champagne.

CANDIED CRANBERRIES INGREDIENTS: • Fresh cranberries • 1 cup of white Sugar (divided) • 1/2 cup of Water

2. PREPARATION IS KEY!

DIRECTIONS:

Prepare as much as possible beforehand. This can allow you to actually be present and enjoy your guests instead of frantically scrambling and missing out on connecting with those dear to you.

1. In a medium saucepan combine and simmer 1/2 cup water and 1/2 cup sugar for 3 minutes. Be sure all the sugar is dissolved. 2. Stir in fresh washed and dried cranberries to coat, then remove from heat and stir another 1 minute. The simple syrup sticks better to dry cranberries. 3. Remove cranberries with a slotted spoon and transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet or rack and dry out for 1 hour. Be sure to remove cranberries prior to them bursting. 4. Scoop up sticky cranberries and roll in remaining sugar to coat. 5. Store candied cranberries covered at room temperature in a cool, dry environment for up to 2 days. For more go to prettyfoodtastesbetter.com or her Instagram handle @boujee_bites_and_boards

3. BE CREATIVE. Not everything has to be over the top. For example, create a signature drink for everyone to enjoy. This shows thought and originality, but doesn’t overcomplicate your shopping list or budget. Small touches can go far. Try this unique little twist on jazzing up some cranberries. Anna Mae's Candied Cranberries are simple to make and versatile. They can be used as a garnish on a variety of holiday items. Anna Mae recommends adding them to a festive drink or a charcuterie board.

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Call 480-633-0272 today! For a no-obligation quote. Advertisement produced on behalf of the following specific insurers and seeking to obtain business for insurance underwritten by Farmers Insurance Exchange, Fire Insurance Exchange, Truck Insurance Exchange, Mid-Century Insurance Company, Farmers Insurance Company of Washington (Bellevue, WA) or affiliates. In TX: insurance is underwritten by Farmers Insurance Exchange, Fire Insurance Exchange, Truck Insurance Exchange, Mid-Century Insurance Company, Farmers Texas County Mutual Insurance Company, Mid-Century Insurance Company of Texas or Texas Farmers Insurance Company. In NY: insurance is underwritten by Farmers Insurance Exchange, Truck Insurance Exchange, Mid-Century Insurance Company or Farmers New Century Insurance Company. Home office, Los Angeles, CA. Each insurer has sole financial responsibility for its own insurance. List of all insurers and states where licensed at farmers.com/companies/state/. Not all insurers are authorized in all states. Not all products, coverages, and discounts are available in every state and may vary by state. Restrictions, exclusions, limits, and conditions apply. See agent for details.

LET’S MAKE A MOVE! Whether you are first-time buyer, ready to search for your DREAM HOME or thinking of selling... CALL ME TODAY! As your FULL-TIME Realtor®, I specialize in Queen Creek/San Tan Valley Real Estate! Put my experience, and commitment to work for you!

ASK ME ABOUT: A Seller Concessions?

ABOUT ME Military shaped my life. Having been married to a Marine before, during, and now after his time in service, I know FIRST-HAND the emotions that can be involved with any relocation. So many factors play into relocating and no two moves are alike. Having the honor of working for others during this time, along with my own personal experiences, gives me the unique ability to look for concerns and address them before they cause a problem. I love providing guidance and information that wasn’t always available during my own personal moves. Helping families through wherever life moves them has become a true passion of mine and I would love the opportunity to help you along your journey! CENTURY 21 Arizona Foothills

A Down Payment Assistance? A FHA vs Conventional Loans? A How much is my home worth? A Is it a Seller’s Market?

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Home is W here the He ar t Is Mary Lokka, local realtor, wife and mom.

in her even before she did. She got her license in May 2018 and says her approach is characterized by 'a heart of service'. Mary hasn't wasted any time either, she earned the 'Rookie of the Year' award as a brand new agent and has then been ranked one of the top Century 21 agents in the state year over year. She values the home she and Greg, a former marine, have created for their boys Lex, 13, and Dallas, 11. Time is, perhaps, even more precious for them, having experienced Greg's deployments in the past. That's why Christmas Day is spent in their house, wearing pajamas, and watching movies, with cocoa and popcorn. Mary says she just wants 'to soak it all up'. Therefore she works with many families to achieve that same goal. After all, a home is the setting for all of those family memories.

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A RT IST ’S PA LE T T E | L IFE + CULTURE

ARTICLE BY FLORENCE DANIELS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KAEDEN PETERSON

What is at the top of your Christmas wish list? For some of us, it just might be the ideal forever home. Mary Lokka is a realtor and mom of two, and she's been there. Her journey into real estate began first as a home buyer. Originally from San Diego, she already had family in Queen Creek and fell in love with the town when she visited in 2010. They finally bought a place in 2016 and back then it wasn't as built up, you could still see the stars at night. The town was family-friendly, with great schools, and lots of nature. Still, Mary says their experience of home-buying was riddled with mistakes and simply not knowing what their options were. It was at times heart-breaking, and she has a passion to help others avoid similar pitfalls. Yet it was her husband, Greg, who first suggested she give real estate a try. 'I trust him' she says, admitting he saw something

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A Tradition of Family Values

Tex Earnhardt with Hal and Little Tex.

The Earnhardt family have cherished roots in Queen Creek.

ARTICLE BY FLORENCE DANIELS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE EARNHARDT FAMILY

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | AU TO + MARI NE

WHEN AND HOW DID THE EARNHARDT AUTO DEALERSHIP BEGIN? The business started back in 1951 when Tex Earnhardt was twenty years old. His father, Hal Earnhardt Sr,. started a small gas station downtown. The service station provided a small income for his family by selling gas and auto parts. Tex wanted to expand his business to sell automobiles, but the factories in Detroit refused to ship the vehicles without expensive transportation costs. Tex went to work and immediately found a solution! He and a friend decided to drive to Detroit, buy a car from the factory, drive both vehicles back to Chandler, and sell the new car. When factory officials saw how dedicated and strong his work ethic was, Ford Motor Company awarded Tex his own franchise in September of 1951. To this date, Tex holds the record for the youngest franchisee in the history of Ford. And, 72 years later that one dealership has turned into 17.

WHAT CAN YOU ATTRIBUTE THE SUCCESS OF EARNHARDT TO? Success is like a great dinner; something that has come together from a recipe of many important ingredients. Earnhardt Auto Centers and the dealerships comes from the heart and work ethic of the founder, Tex Earnhardt. It comes from generations of a family committed to the vision. It comes from thousands of incredible employees that care for the company and the fantastic product and manufacturers that Earnhardt represents. It especially comes from the loyalty and faith of Earnhardt customers over the last 72 years.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF A FAMILY RUN BUSINESS? It’s created a culture of high retention where in many cases, employees spend the vast majority of their career working for Earnhardt. It’s common to see one of

Earnhardt’s 2,000+ employees celebrating their 10th, 20th, 30th …even 40th anniversary with the company.

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE TIES THE EARNHARDT FAMILY HAVE TO QUEEN CREEK? Members of the Earnhardt Family have resided in the Queen Creek area since well-before it was a Town. For over 40 years, the Earnhardt Family has been building roots in the Queen Creek area…with many Earnhardts attending either elementary, middle or high school in the area.

WHAT CHARITIES OR ORGANIZATIONS DO YOU SUPPORT LOCALLY? Earnhardt supports dozens of local charities, schools, and philanthropic initiatives. Tex Earnhardt (the company’s founder) instilled a culture of “giving back” and “supporting local” in both his family and company culture; something the Earnhardt Family and Earnhardt businesses hold dear and continue to do, today.

WHAT ARE SOME FAMILY HOLIDAY TRADITIONS THE FAMILY LOVE TO DO EVERY YEAR? 1. Family gathers for dinner on Christmas Eve 2. Give Turkeys to all Earnhardt employees for Thanksgiving 3. Cowboy boots as gifts for all the kids

WHAT WILL THE EARNHARDT DEALERSHIP BE PLANNING FOR CUSTOMERS THIS CHRISTMAS? Our Earnhardt Queen Creek Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM dealership puts on a Winter Wonderland for our amazing customers! It is a place for everyone to come together and take free family photos with Santa, enjoy treats, take a ride on our holiday train and more! It’s traditions like this that Earnhardt Chevrolet is eager to join in on when it moves to its new home in Queek Creek! earnhardtford.com

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The City Lifestyle

Giving Campaign

2023 34

G IV IN G BAC K | L IFE + CULTURE

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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.”

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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/Q UE E N C R E E K

DECEMBER 2023

events A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

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Queen Creek Holiday Festival and Parade

2 :00 PM This event is free to attend. It features a parade, tree lighting ceremony, live entertainment by talented locals, free photos with Santa, a kid’s zone, food and commercial vendors and more! queencreekaz.gov D EC E M BE R 4 T H

A Morning with Mrs. Claus

Q UEEN CR EEK LIBR ARY | 11:00 A M Come enjoy an interactive morning with one of the lesser-seen characters of the season! Share songs and stories, take photos, and make something special to take home. The event will be held in the Zane Grey room at the Queen Creek Library. queencreekaz.gov D EC E M BE R 8T H

The Nutcracker

COMBS PERFORMIN G ARTS CE NT E R | 7 :0 0 P M The classic Tchaikovsky ballet performance of the Nutcracker by Studio R Ballet will delight audiences with this well-loved holiday classic. Enjoy the familiar music, the dancing, the costumes, and the story of Clara and the magical Nutcracker prince. Performances are December 8th and 9th and Combs Performing Arts Center. jocombs.org D EC E M BE R 1 6T H

15th Annual Car Show and Toy Drive

DES ERT MOUN TAIN PARK | 9:00 A M Kiwanis Club of Queen Creek and Queen Creek Family Resource Center host the 15th Annual Kids’ Christmas Car Show & Toy Drive. There will be vintage, classic and collectible vehicles on show to benefit less fortunate children with toys for Christmas. Bring an unwrapped toy to donate and enjoy food vendors, raffle prizes, and more. queen-creek-az.kiwanisone.org

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Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/QueenCreek

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Holly Jolly Holiday Party

QUEEN CR EEK MARKETPL AC E | 3:0 0 P M Enjoy a party with Santa Claus at Queen Creek Marketplace from 3pm-4:30pm. There will be photo opportunities with Santa too. Guests will also have the chance to win a $50 gift card to use in one of the stores at the center. queencreekmarketplace.com D E C E M BE R 2 4 T H

Christmas at Schnepf Farms

S CHN EPF FARMS | 5:00 P M Starting the weekend after Thanksgiving and every weekend through December from 5pm -10pm, enjoy a Christmas like no other at Schnepf Farms. There will be crafts, mini golf, a carousel, holiday shopping, bonfires, ice skating, the Illumination Express, and a reindeer hay ride. This is a must see event and a Queen Creek tradition. schnepffarms.com

This c

Coastal Christmas Bar soap Depicted on it is the West Quoddy Light house in Maine, all made of soap!

Scented with Frosted Birch and Juniper.

Perfect for the cozy winter season! Click, Call, Or Visit Us Today 21180 E ORCHARD LANE, QUEEN CREEK (480) 620-2667  Soapfreakinexcited@gmail.com www.soapfreakinexcited.com

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My Favorite Things S W E E T C R E E K B O U T I Q U E H A S YO U R LO C A L C H R I S T M A S G I F T G U I D E . ARTICLE BY FLORENCE DANIELS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KAEDEN PETERSON Sweet Creek Boutique has many products that are local and handmade to really show thoughtfulness and care this gift-giving season. sweetcreekboutiqueaz.com

Knot & Berry Creations Blended Bliss jam and Beautiful Buzz Naturals from the Arizona Desert Habanero Honey.

Rustic Barn ornaments 'QC" and 'Amazing Grace. 'Queen Creek' ornament on painted wood by Sweet Creek Boutique.

Open Range Tallow Co. in Citrus Breeze and Cactus Blossom.

Maui and Kona whipped soap and Sea Kelp Pedicure Bomb.

The Pink Apron trivets

Mali + Casey 12 oz hand-poured candle in Flannel scent.

G IF T GU ID E | SHOPPIN G

TIME SMILE MOMENT

FREE SECOND OPINIONS Have a question about proposed treatment? Get a complimentary second opinion!

480-445-9188 www.itsyourtimedental.com ptcare@itsyourtimedental.com 21295 S Ellsworth Loop Rd. Suite 103 Queen Creek, AZ 85142