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A SIT D OWN WITH M ARRIA PO OYA D E C E M B E R 2 02 3

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

The Holiday Issue The holiday season has arrived as has the magic that accompanies it. The glistening lights and decorated storefronts on our Main Street boost our spirits during this short but impactful season that allows us to reclaim a bit of our youth and revel in the awe and traditions that consistently make this the merriest time of the year! The majestic cover photo that showcases the Lounsbury House decorated in an abundance of lights and holly sets the tone for the rest of this issue which centers around community, festivities and giving. We curated a list of our favorite things highlighting a few gift ideas from local businesses that we hope make your holiday shopping a bit easier. The offerings span from beauty, fitness, jewelry, and even live theatre! One of the offerings is a gift certificate to the Greenwich Medical Spa in Ridgefield. This gorgeous medical spa has an abundance of offerings to make you look and feel your best. We sat down with the accomplished visionary and founder, Marria Pooya in this issue to talk about her upbringing, her vision and why she loves being a part of the Ridgefield business community. We feature the Ridgefield School of Dance as they celebrate 25 years. My daughter started dancing there at the age of five when we moved to Ridgefield in 2007 so I am especially touched to bring you this beautiful feature that highlights the offerings of the school along with some of the dancers who have graced the stage in their many recitals over the years. Take a look at our holiday entertaining tips. We have some seasoned experts such as Jillian Fontana, Paula Alonso and Jennifer Johnson to get you ready for your holiday soiree. We are also thrilled to highlight the Ridgefield Historic House Tour which is back this year with a powerful historic theme. We hope the magic of the season transports you to places you aspire to go, and that you can take the time to enjoy your friends, family and the magic that surrounds us. We at Ridgefield Lifestyle Magazine wish you a joyous holiday and a happy, healthy start to the new year. Thank you, too, for reading and staying engaged with our magazine. We greatly appreciate it! Cordially,

M A R Y D O U G H E R T Y, P U B L I S H E R @RIDGEFIELDCITYLIFESTYLE

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

December 2023 PUBLISHER

Mary Dougherty | mary.dougherty@citylifestyle.com EDITOR

Ashley Alt | ashley.alt@citylifestyle.com EDITOR IAL COOR DINATOR

Kristin Healy | kristin.healy@citylifestyle.com CONTR IBUTING WR ITER

Jillian Fontana CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER S

Jennie Carr, Natasha Fleming, Kate Wark

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 Kathy Nguyen

Learn how to start your own publication at: citylifestyle.com//franchise Proverbs 3:5-6 Ridgefield City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Ridgefield 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 Ridgefield City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but

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

the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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inside the issue The Holidays & Giving Issue

F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

14 Empowering Women and Communities

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Business Monthly

Inspired By HEA LT H + WELLNE SS

Artist’s Palette LI FE + C U LT UR E

Hosting Tips ENT ERTA I NMENT

Must See HO ME + DES I GN

Gift Guide S HO PPI NG

Giving Back LI FE + C U LT U R E

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

A Sit-Down with Greenwich Medical Spa Founder, Marria Pooya

20 The Ridgefield School of Dance Celebrates 25 Years 24 How to Ho-Ho-Host a Holiday Party Entertaining For The Holidays

28 The Holiday House Tour Returns

Begin Your Holiday Season with a Glimpse of Grandeur and History

O N T H E C OV E R

Photography: Lounsbury House by Lisa Cousins Photography 6

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Where neighbors can see and be seen. 1

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1: Valerie Jensen delivering opening remarks at the Prospector Theatre’s Do Good Business Conference 2: A panel discussion about employment at the Prospector Theatre’s Do Good Business Conference 3: Jenny Phair, Kim Bishop, Christine Wohl and Christine Santori at the Kids in Crisis Glamour & Grit Fundraiser 4: Prospects serving food at the Prospector Theatre’s Do Good Business Conference 5: Dr. Susie Da Silva speaking at the Kids in Crisis Glamour & Grit Fundraiser 6: Guests breaking for lunch at the Prospector Theatre’s Do Good Business Conference CONTINUED >

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7: Shari Shapiro and Rudy Marconi speaking at the Kids in Crisis Glamour & Grit Fundraiser 8: Mary Dougherty and Paula Alonso at the Sunset Wine Party 9: Allison Stockel, David Saunders, Kelly and Matt Moriarty at the Kids in Crisis Fundraiser 10: Guests enjoying a variety of wines at The Sunset Wine Party 11: Denise Bertalovitz and Christine Santori at the Kids in Crisis Fundraiser 12: Christine and Darcy Argueta at the Sunset Wine Party

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

GIVE CORE THIS SEASON! 10

C I T Y SC E N E

HOLIDAY GIFT SPECIALS

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DECEMBER 2023

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

Host Your Holiday Party at Salem Golf Club Salem Golf Club boasts a beautifully designed banquet facility catered by a highly trained staff of professionals. The space truly shines during the holiday season and is an ideal place to hold holiday parties. To inquire about options for your holiday party or to take a tour of our facilities, reach out to us at 914-669-5485 or visit our website at salemgolfclub.org for more information.

Want to be featured?

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

B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

WHERE IS YOUR NEXT ESCAPE? Bluebird Estate Sales and Vixen Hill Celebrate Anniversary and Welcome Ridgefield Vintage Three local retail establishments set off of Route 7 in a quaint, old-fashioned town center setting recently celebrated one year of serving the Ridgefield community. These shops offer an assortment of gifts including antiques, vintage clothing, household furniture and fixtures. They are sure to be bustling during the holiday season and look forward to welcoming you to their stores!

Are you looking for help booking your next trip? We can help with that!

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Italy Founders Hall Light Fight Founders Hall will once again launch their famed Light Fight event to the Ridgefield community in December. Residents will have the opportunity to visit the participating homes which will feature exquisite holiday displays that light up our town from December 8-17. Residents can vote for their favorite home. This event is a fundraiser for Founders Hall. www.foundershall.org

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Marria Pooya at GMS Ridgefield

Empowering Women and Communities In a world driven by aesthetics and a desire to look and feel one's best, Greenwich Medical Spa has emerged as a beacon of innovation and excellence. Founded on the principles of deeply personalized care, this renowned establishment has redefined non-surgical facial and body contouring treatments, consistently delivering results that align with their clients' aspirations. The spa's remarkable success, however, is not solely attributed to its cutting-edge treatments but also to the compassionate vision of its founder, Marria Pooya. In this

exclusive interview, we delve into Marria's humble beginnings and her commitment to giving back and empowering women, shedding light on the heartwarming journey behind Greenwich Medical Spa's rise to the top 1% of medical spas nationwide.

CL: CAN YOU SHARE WITH US YOUR EARLY LIFE EXPERIENCES? During my formative years, I often felt like I led a dual existence — one at school and another at home. I was born in Kabul, Afghanistan, and my family and I relocated

A SIT-DOWN WITH GREENWICH MEDICAL SPA FOUNDER, MARRIA POOYA

ARTICLE BY LAURA SABIA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATE WARK

I NSP IR E D BY | HEA LTH + W E LLNE S S

to the United States when I was nine years old. My upbringing was characterized by the strict upbringing my mother enforced; it denied me the freedoms that many American girls my age enjoyed. I couldn't socialize with American friends, go to the movies, or participate in after-school activities. This situation compelled me to embrace a more traditional Afghan role at home while attempting to assimilate when I was at school. It was an incredibly challenging experience, but it ultimately shaped me into a stronger individual.

CL: COULD YOU SHARE WITH US THE MOST SIGNIFICANT LESSON YOU ACQUIRED DURING YOUR UPBRINGING?

With our second child on the way, I came to the realization that I needed to decide what my next professional endeavor would be. This led me to explore various business opportunities, and my passion for the beauty industry, which I had previously covered as an analyst on Wall Street, prompted me to delve deeper. I decided to enter the Medspa industry after researching it online. This resulted in the creation of Greenwich Medical Spa.

CL: WHAT WERE SOME OF THE CHALLENGES YOU FACED DURING THE INITIAL YEARS OF YOUR ENTREPRENEURIAL JOURNEY?

One of the prominent obstacles was the need to One profound realization I had was that labels educate the market about the concept of a "med are essentially meanspa." 18 years ago, these ingless. Coming from establishments weren't my particular backas commonplace as they “Throughout our expansion, ground and being a are today. We had the we carefully selected Ridgefield girl, I encountered unique task of conveyas one of our locations with one differential treatment ing to potential clients throughout my early that we weren't merely a key factor in mind — the years. I was frequently spa but rather a medical community. Ridgefield, with told that I couldn't purpractice nestled within its rich history and charm, sue certain endeavors a spa-like ambiance. It simply because of my was not uncommon for perfectly aligns with our gender. I often heard people to inquire about commitment to providing a criticisms about being massages, assuming that top-tier experience for our too loud or asking too was our primary service. many questions. As a clients. The vibrant community result, I had to conCL: COULD YOU and its residents who appreciate tinuously advocate SHARE MORE ABOUT the value of personalized care is for myself to attain YOUR COLLABORAmy goals in the face TION WITH GIRLS what made the decision easy.” of such gender-based WITH IMPACT (GWI)? obstacles. In addition At Greenwich to this, I learned the Medical Spa (GMS), timeless value of treating others with the same our enduring mission has been to champion and respect and kindness I wished to receive. empower women, enabling them to cultivate strength and independence in every facet of CL: CAN YOU DESCRIBE SOME OF THE POSITIONS their lives. This commitment has led us to form a partnership with GWI, a remarkable non-profit YOU OCCUPIED DURING YOUR EARLY CAREER? Following my college years, I served as a finanorganization dedicated to the empowerment of cial analyst for a Wall Street investment bank. young girls through entrepreneurship and leadAdditionally, I held the role of Director of Product ership training. Development and Marketing for a color cosmetic Throughout this year, we've actively contribline, where I played a pivotal role in the development, uted to GWI's cause by raising funds for five branding, and successful national and international scholarships. These scholarships have played launch of two distinct lines of color cosmetics. a pivotal role in shaping the futures of young women like Shain, who successfully graduated CL: WHAT WAS THE INSPIRATION BEHIND YOUR this year, and Amhya, who recently embarked on her journey within the program. DECISION TO ESTABLISH A MEDICAL SPA?

CONTINUED > D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ R I D G E F I E L D

“At Greenwich Medical Spa (GMS), our enduring mission has been to champion and empower women, enabling them to cultivate strength and independence in every facet of their lives.”

CL: WHAT KIND OF IMPACT ARE YOU STRIVING TO CREATE, AND WHY IS THIS SO SIGNIFICANT TO YOU? My personal mission revolves around effecting change within three crucial domains: our employees, our patients, and the communities we serve. Employees: I take immense pride in the fact that almost all our staff, with the exception of our two medical directors, are women. It's deeply important to me to empower our employees to attain financial independence and seize control of their destinies.

I NSP IR E D BY | HEA LTH + W E LLNE S S

Marria Pooya at GMS's Ridgefield Location

Patients: At GMS, we wield a profound influence on our patients every day, beginning the moment they step through our doors. From the outset of their visit to the moment they leave our premises, we nurture feelings of self-assuredness and confidence. In doing so, we make a tangible impact on their lives. Community: In the larger context, it's a part of GMS's ethos to offer opportunities to women and minorities who might otherwise lack access to them. We remain committed to supporting local charities and women's

GMS's Skin Care Line

Marria Pooya in the doorway of GMS's Ridgefield location.

organizations that align with our overarching mission, allowing us to continue making a significant impact within our communities. One of our key objectives in the coming three years is to establish a GMS Scholarship program, designed to assist younger women in realizing their educational aspirations. This initiative represents our steadfast dedication to fostering opportunities and creating a lasting, positive impact.

CL: WHY DID YOU CHOOSE RIDGEFIELD AS ONE OF YOUR LOCATIONS? Throughout our expansion, we carefully selected Ridgefield as one of our locations with one key factor in mind — the community. Ridgefield, with its rich history and charm, perfectly aligns with our commitment to providing a top-tier experience for our clients. The vibrant community and its residents who appreciate the value of personalized care is what made the decision easy. We were drawn to the warm and welcoming atmosphere of Ridgefield, knowing that it would be the perfect setting for our spa to thrive.

CL: WHAT DO YOU LIKE ABOUT BEING A PART OF THE RIDGEFIELD BUSINESS COMMUNITY? Being a part of the Ridgefield Business Community is a true privilege for us at Greenwich Medical Spa. We are grateful to be

surrounded by a community of passionate professionals who share our dedication to excellence and personalized care. What we love best about being a part of the Ridgefield Business Community is the sense of camaraderie and support that permeates the area. We have formed strong relationships with local business owners who understand the importance of collaboration and lifting one another up. The atmosphere of mutual support fosters an environment of growth and success, not just for us, but for all businesses in the area. We love being a part of the vibrant business landscape in Ridgefield and are honored to contribute to the overall growth and success of this wonderful community. The journey of Greenwich Medical Spa is not just about providing exceptional cosmetic services; it's about a profound commitment to empowerment and impact. From our employees, predominantly women, to our valued patients, and the communities we serve, our mission is woven with threads of change, self-assurance, and the pursuit of choices. As we strive to make a difference in the lives of those we touch, whether by nurturing professional growth, fostering self-confidence, or championing educational dreams, we remain dedicated to the idea that empowerment transcends the boundaries of our spa. Our ultimate goal is to leave a lasting legacy of positive transformation, not only in the beauty we enhance but in the lives we enrich. D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ R I D G E F I E L D

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C E L E B R AT I N G 2 5 Y E A R S OF DA NC E The Ridgefield School of Dance is a beloved institution fostering excellence and artistry through discipline, challenge and joy. This year marks their 25th anniversary, celebrating a quarter of a century of a school rooted in classical ballet that has developed many talented dancers and delighted the Ridgefield community with a host of exquisitely choreographed recitals over the years. Nancy Andrews founded the school in 1997 with a passion for classical ballet and a love of teaching. Andrews, who passed away seven years ago, brought her love of dance to hundreds of students as both director and teacher. "Her creative spirit and devotion to her students established the strong foundation for the school, which continues to grow and excel, building on her legacy," Executive Director Alison Brown says. Sharing her great talent and passion with the community, Andrews brought experience as the department director of Skidmore College, previously dancing with The Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo, Merce Cunningham and the Martha Graham School. The 2017 Spring performance was dedicated to her memory. Starting as young as three years old, The Ridgefield School of Dance introduces their youngest dancers to the language of ballet, focusing on teamwork, gross motor skills like leaping and jumping, and musicality. The institution is rooted in the teachings of classical ballet. As dancers move up a level, they are exposed to a more technical side of dance including discipline at the barre. Then, in upper levels, students work on technique and choreography that allows them to learn the artistry and expression of ballet. In addition to ballet, the studio offers jazz, theatre dance, lyrical and contemporary. "These disciplines are important for dancers to learn to work with their bodies in different ways," Brown says. She notes their faculty is comprised of teachers with a professional dance background, all working together to teach a cohesive curriculum.

"Our faculty has been carefully curated to provide the highest level of classical training," Brown states. "All teaching the same style and working with each other to deliver a cohesive curriculum designed to produce dancers looking to integrate into the professional dance world." Requiring such a rigorous curriculum first and foremost teaches dancers how to study and appreciate a classical art form. Secondly and perhaps most importantly, it teaches discipline, accountability, both personally and collectively, and how to handle adversity. Additionally, it teaches self-resilience, and encourages self-confidence and self-motivation. All while working in a team environment to lift up and support their fellow ballet students. The studio is very family-friendly, the parents in town note, who have the option to congregate in the studio's family lounge and watch classes while siblings and young dancers get to know each other. Each year, one performance of the Nutcracker is presented to the community, along with two performances of their Spring show. While all students are included in these performances, the casting of roles is determined by the dancers' strengths. Roles for the Nutcracker are rotated each year so dancers are able to learn and perform different parts, Brown mentions. "The anticipation for who gets which part is always very high," she says. When Brown first joined RSD, the ballets were performed on a rotating schedule from Cinderella to Sleeping Beauty to Coppelia. Artistic director Jessica Boelts, who is responsible for choreography, develops new, fun and exciting ballets that have included Madeline, A Midsummer Night's Dream and Carnival of the Animals. During the height of the pandemic, Boelts created "Four Seasons," limiting the number of dancers on stage to no more than eight at a time. "Everyone knows we are performing Nutcracker, but we keep the Spring performance a secret until the new year," Brown says. "I think the parents who are new to CONTINUED >

ARTICLE BY ASHLEY ALT PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEVEWHITE.PHOTOGRAPHY

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“Her creative spirit and devotion to her students established the strong foundation for the school, which continues to grow and excel, building on her legacy.” — Executive Director Alison Brown

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

the school are often very surprised and pleased by the performances and their production value," she states. There have been multiple accomplishments from both dancers and instructors coming from RSD. Here are a few success stories: Claire Cordano (pictured above as Clara in the Nutcracker) attended the Conservatory of Dance at SUNY Purchase, performing thereafter with Ballet Quad Cities, which she has done for the past five years. Julia Galanski, a 2012 grad matriculated to New York University Tisch School of the Arts. "In addition to performing with local companies, Julia taught at our studio for a year," Brown adds. This Fall, Sophia Dotterer became a student at the University of Delaware as an exercise science major and dance minor. And, this year, two of the studio's dancers are applying to universities with prestigious dance programs with plans on furthering their careers in dance. "Most of our dancers continue to include dance as an important part of their college experience," Brown says. Recitals are open to all! www.theridgefieldschoolofdance.com

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HOW TO HO-HOHOST A HOLIDAY PARTY

ARTICLE BY SOMMELIER JILLIAN FONTANA

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNIE CARR AT LOUNSBURY HOUSE

ENTERTAINING TIPS FOR THE HOLIDAYS

H OST IN G T IP S | ENTERTAI NME NT

It’s that wondrous time of year, and if you are hosting a holiday soirée, we’ve got some pro tips to ensure your gathering is sensational. Regardless of which holiday you celebrate, warm and welcoming surroundings are the basis of any extraordinary event. Entertaining expert Jenifer Johnson of Sweet Bean Events seamlessly blends chic and cozy, glam and rustic into a timeless surrounding that welcomes all, expertly integrating natural elements with luxe, like swaths of rich, red fabrics with glinty metallics on a holiday mantle. “For a fun and festive tablescape, start with playful runners as a base,” Johnson suggests. “Next, layer with texture and patterns, finishing with greenery and pops of color from berries, ornaments or seasonal fruits and florals, which add depth and give a finished final look.” For an impressive sit-down dinner, Johnson recommends to “get playful with your place settings by combining different prints and patterns in your dining ware,” adding that “touches of dried herbs and berries and small,

floral bunches give the setting a thoughtful and colorful touch.” Throughout the space, she advises to keep it personal by incorporating your own heirlooms and keepsakes in your decor, as these special pieces not only add to the festive spirit of the space, but also make for a great conversation starter. As for key elements that must be in place for the perfect ambiance, Johnson emphasizes that lighting plays "a big role in creating a mood," encouraging hosts to play around with lighting as you set the tone for your event. "Candles, a roaring fireplace, or even twinkle lights incorporated into the decor can completely change a space and create a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere." Johnson notes that having signature cocktails and mocktails prepared in advance to greet your guests is a great way to start off the celebration. "Festive glassware and garnishing your drinks with sprigs of dried herbs and fresh, seasonal fruit are a great addition to any celebratory cocktail." After setting the tone for the event, it's time to think about food and beverage, both equally important. Paula Alonso, Co-Founder of Sommlike and creator of Sunset Wine Party adds her perspective on wine and entertaining: “The most important thing when picking wines for the holiday table is to balance variety,” she states. “Offer a red, white and a sparkling option for that festive toast. I’d definitely throw in a rosé option for fun as well. You’ll be surprised at how many appetizers it pairs beautifully with!” Wine can be intimidating for some with all the confusing labels and huge range in price.

Sommlike helps hosts choose wines that have been vetted by sommeliers so they can feel confident going out on a limb, and as Alonso explains, “The holidays are a great time to try new wines and expand your palate. Don’t be afraid to explore and discover new favorites.” The holidays are also a time to splurge, and a proper wine service really makes an impression. This season of celebration often includes rich, indulgent fare, and certain wines are recommended. Sparkling wine like Champagne, crémants, cava or Prosecco provides much more than an excuse to cheers. These options are extremely versatile and provide a pleasing contrast with their bright acidity and ebullient bubbles. As for pairing with holiday dishes, there is often times more cream or butter in these home cooked meals. When choosing a white wine, go for a richer option like an elegantly styled chardonnay, chenin blanc or viognier. These wines are excellent options that won’t get overpowered by a truffled potato au gratin, for example. And, since the holiday table often includes a roasted meat, select a spicy and bold red with more tannic structure to bring out the robust flavor of chicken or steak. Opt for a reserve-level Rioja made of tempranillo, or a hearty Italian wine from the Aglianico grape. D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ R I D G E F I E L D

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The Hol id ay House Tou r Ret u r ns Begin Your Holiday Season With a Glimpse of Grandeur and History

M UST SE E | HOM E + D ESIGN

Stacey Schibli, also an interior designer, is co-chair. “I am honored to take part in this year’s tour which brings to the forefront cherished homes that illustrate our past, illuminate our present all while embracing the spirit of community. Both Tiger Hollow and The Ridgefield Historical Society are important organizations that benefit our town.” Stephen Barkus, Director of the Ridgefield Historical Society says, "When guests join the Ridgefield Holiday House Tour this year, they will be transported back in time to experience the rich history of Ridgefield. From colonial gems to Victorian marvels, guests will gain insights into the architectural evolution of Ridgefield, while also learning about the families who once called these houses home." Visit The Benjamin for a set menu on tour day and a portion of proceeds will be donated to the Tour. Gather your friends and don’t miss this Historic event. For more information visit www.ridgefieldholidayhousetour.com.

ARTICLE BY MARY DOUGHERTY

The start of the holiday season will be even brighter this year with the Holiday House Tour returning to town! Tiger Hollow is partnering with the Ridgefield Historical Society to allow patrons of the tour to gain further appreciation of the past as they tour the curated lineup of historic homes. There will be a preview party on the evening of December 1 at the Historic TuttleSmith House. Join guests for cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and great company! The Tour will be held on Saturday, December 2. History is the theme! “From the Preview Party, to the check in at Lounsbury, each historic address on the tour has their own unique story to tell,” says Jill Rae. Rae is thrilled to have the honor to bring back this revered tradition, in her role as Chair of Tiger Hollow in partnership with the Historical Society for this event. "I love this community. As a business owner here, I have made my focus dedicated to just that. Owning a design firm here goes hand and hand with home and decor. It was a perfect fit.”

Tyrus Xanthos Photos

Jane Beiles

D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ R I D G E F I E L D

A Few O f

Our Favorite Things Shop Local with a Curated List of Holiday Gifts from Local Businesses ARTICLE BY KRISTIN HEALY

01 VALT. 100% organic cotton, this festive crew neck is available pre-order, XS-XL. @valtbrand. valtshop.com // 02 PILATES BARRE. Give the Gift of Core Stability. Private, Semi-Private & Group Pilates Classes. Special Holiday Offers! pilatesbarrecore.com / 03 ACT OF CT. Give the gift of live theatre! 10% off tickets for: MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET and KINKY BOOTS! Use Code HOLIDAY10. greenwichmedicalspa.com / 04 GREENWICH MEDICAL SPA. Delight friends and family (or yourself) with a gift card to use on facials, laser hair removal, botox, filler and more. greenwichmedicalspa.com / 05 GROW WELLNESS. Find everything for heartfelt gift giving: crystals, herbal remedies, meditative tools, massage certificates and more! growwellnesstherapy.com / 06 CARDINAL GEMS. Unique, stackable gold bangles with bezel set, gemstones for everyday and festive occasions. cardinalgems.com

G IF T GU ID E | SHOPPIN G

SHIR OD H AR A Ancient, ayurvedic, warm stone and oil therapy. Brings a profound sense of peace, stillness and faith. Deepens connection to inner wisdom, intuition and higher guidance.

thefeelbettergroup.com

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The City Lifestyle

Giving Campaign

2023 32

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.”

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/ R I D G E F I E L D

Cranberry Aperol Spritz Cocktail CR ANBERRY APEROL SPRITZ This recipe is wonderful for entertaining guests during the holidays! Filled with sweet and tart Aperol, prosecco, homemade cranberry orange simple syrup, and soda water, this cocktail is full of holiday good cheer!

2. Pour in the Aperol and simple syrup. 3. Next, add the Prosecco and gently stir. 4. Finally, top off with the soda water.

Makes one 8 ounce Cocktail

5. Garnish with an orange slice, frozen cranberries, and edible flowers like Dianthus.

INGREDIENTS:

CR ANBERRY OR ANGE

• 4 ounces Prosecco • 2 ounces Aperol • 1 ounce cranberry-orange simple syrup, see recipe below* • 1 ounce soda water

INSTRUCTIONS: 1. Take a large wine glass and fill halfway with ice.

SIMPLE SYRUP Makes 1 Cup

INGREDIENTS: • • • • •

1/4 cup whole berry cranberry sauce 1 cup sugar 1 cup water 1 naval orange zest, without the pith 1 cinnamon stick

INSTRUCTIONS: 1. Add all of the ingredients to a small saucepan and mix. Place the pot on medium-high heat and bring to a low boil. Stir occasionally. Let boil for 5 minutes. 2. After boiling, remove from the heat and let cool slightly. 3. Strain the syrup into a glass mason jar with a fitted lid. Discard the solids. Store covered in the chiller, for up to 2 weeks. Recipe provided by creator and NBC contributor Jessie-Sierra Ross @straighttothehipsbaby. Jessie has a cookbook coming out next year, “Seasons Around The Table,” which will be released to all major markets.

ARTICLE BY JESSIE-SIERRA ROSS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JONATHAN ROSS

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

The Ridgefield School of Dance wishes you a joyful holiday season!

203.894.5957 theridgefieldschoolofdance.com 66 Grove Street, Ridgefield, CT