
CHEERS TO Five YEA RS

CHEERS TO Five YEA RS
NOV. 29 - DEC. 29
It’s hard to believe we’re celebrating FIVE years with you! Since debuting in the holiday season of 2019, the small but mighty squad at River Oaks Lifestyle has been bringing you stories that showcase the very best of our beloved Houston. As we celebrate this milestone, we couldn’t be more grateful for your continued support and enthusiasm.
In honor of our anniversary, we’re thrilled to bring you our cover story Cheers to Five Years, where we share what drives this all-woman team to create this monthly “love letter” to Houston, which you hold in your hands. We’re giving you a behind-the-scenes look at the moments that inspire us and make us proud to share this journey with you.
Speaking of things which make our city so unique, our Anatomy of a Classic feature celebrates a true local legend: River Oaks Theatre! This re-emerging community favorite is back and as charming as ever, reminding us why Houston’s history is worth celebrating.
For holiday shoppers , The Highlight Reel offers our most curated Holiday Shopping Guide yet, spotlighting the best in beauty, fashion, and accessories to bring some extra sparkle to your gift list this season.
In the spirit of giving, we invite you to dig into Making Spirits Bright, where we highlight City Lifestyle’s National Giving Campaign. This cherished initiative blesses families in need across the nation each year. We encourage you to submit a local nomination (confidentially!) to spread some holiday magic to those who need it most.
Thank you for being part of our journey. Here’s to celebrating Houston, the holiday season, and many more years together!
From our families to yours,
SUZANNE SCHAKETT, PUBLISHER
PUBLISHER
Suzanne Schakett | suzanne.schakett@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Gabi De la Rosa | gabi.delarosa@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Kayla Bokemeyer | kayla.bokemeyer@citylifestyle.com
SALES DIRECTOR
Suzanne Schakett | suzanne.schakett@citylifestyle.com
SALES SUPPORT COORDINATOR
Savannah Schakett
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Paige McInturff
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto
LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray
Elevate
1: Dr. Sippi & Ajay Khurana at the Houston Symphony Opening Night dinner at Corinthian Houston. 2: Crystal Calloway, Urica Chevis, Natalia Oates at the National MS Society ‘Together for a Cure’ luncheon. 3: Houston Design District’s Inside Panelists Oliver Furth, Katherine Bryan, Megan Hotze, Kara Childress, and Bill Stubbs. 4: Diane Cowen, Denzil Hollingsworth, and Katherine Bryan at Houston Design District’s Fall Design Week. 5: Logan Lester, Lauren Paine, Zinat Ahmed, Marla Hurley at the Philanthropy in Fashion Best Dressed luncheon. 6: Courtney Zavala, Lindsey Hiller, Lauren Wills Grover, Maggy Chesnut at City Boot and Sapana dinner in Round Top. 7: Lizzy Bentley, founder of City Boots and Jolie Helms, founder of Sapana in Round Top.
Want to be seen in the magazine?
Rex Hospitality Group co-founders – Houston Astros pitcher Lance McCullers Jr. and Houston entrepreneur Juan Carlos de Aldecoa, along with their partner, attorney Jimmy Doan – have positioned MAVEN at Sawyer Yards as the company’s next major step in expanding a portfolio of imaginative, neighborhood-driven new dining and entertainment concepts slated for Houston.
Hyatt Regency San Antonio Riverwalk, located in the heart of Downtown San Antonio, provides a premier holiday destination for travelers. The hotel is located in the heart of the River Walk providing direct access to the magic of the season, from offering a front row seat to the famous Ford Holiday River Parade to providing direct access to the “Holidays on Houston Street” experience.
Communities In Schools of Houston announces it has received a donation of $52,460 from the Halliburton Charity Golf Tournament (HCGT), the central fundraising event of the Halliburton Charitable Foundation. The 31st annual golf tournament, held on Oct. 2 at the Clubs of Kingwood, raised a record-breaking $4 million. In addition to CIS of Houston, Halliburton Charitable Foundation donated funds to 27 other worthy Houston nonprofit organizations.
The Houston philanthropic and business community gathered on Thursday, Oct. 3, at Lakeside Country Club for Memorial Assistance Ministries' (MAM) 11th Annual Luncheon, "Ignite: See Potential, Spark Change," to raise essential funds for MAM's mission of empowering families to build self-sufficient lives. This year's event set a new fundraising record – more than $1 million - ensuring that MAM can continue its vital work in the community. Want to be
Season’s Greetings from Today’s Vision
The end of the year is just around the corner, and so is the chance to make the most of your vision insurance benefits. Don’t let your hard-earned benefits go unused - Book your eye exam and update your prescription before the year ends.
Wishing you a wonderful holiday season filled with joy and clear vision. We look forward to helping you see the new year in focus!
Choose prevention and protect your vision.
Elevate gift giving with these top picks from Houston boutiques.
ARTICLE BY RIVER OAKS LIFESTYLE STAFF
The Bezel Set Gemstone Paper Clip Necklace is a must-have! It has a fun paper clip chain and chic sparkling gemstones. It’s the perfect piece to wear alone or layer with others.
The Oval Open Tube Hoops are made of 14K yellow gold and are bold, stylish, and make a statement. They add a trendy, eye-catching touch to any outfit, ideal for casual or dressy looks. They are the perfect earrings for gold lovers.
A diamond tennis bracelet is a sleek, elegant piece featuring a row of sparkling diamonds. It’s a timeless accessory that adds a touch of sparkle and sophistication to any outfit, great for both everyday wear and special occasions. lindseyleighjewelry.com
Whether you are looking to streamline your closet or trying to figure out your style, Chloe will help you look and feel your best with flattering fashion. Make an appointment at designteam@chloedao.com.
From corporate to cocktail, this is the ultimate set. At no additional charge, you can customize your colors (4-8 weeks) and size (XS-3X). Designed to flatter all sizes, wear together or separately. A must-have for a classic wardrobe.
Celebrate Houston’s diversity with the best-selling cotton T-shirt. It makes the perfect stocking stuffer, and 10% of every shirt sold is donated to charity. XS - 3X Unisex. chloedao.com
Elevate your bandanas with this silk bandana, designed in Paris and made in Italy. It is available in multiple colors and two different sizes making it perfect for any outfit.
Get in the holiday spirit with this beautifully woven skirt made in France from a blend of ultra-fine wool and cotton. Versatile and timeless, it can be worn with multiple outfits. The matching sweater is also available at Dear Paris.
Add color to your winter wardrobe with this fun, oversized sweater. Made in Scotland by a family-run business, this sweater is made of ultra-soft yarn sourced from a Scottish mill that has been producing yarn since 1798. dearparis.com
10. SAPPHIRE (GEMSTONE) PENDANT NECKLACE
A blue sapphire necklace is a stunning statement piece. The deep, rich hue of the sapphire contrasts beautifully with the sparkle of diamonds, all set in luxurious gold. This elegant combination evokes a sense of timeless sophistication, making it perfect for both special occasions and everyday wear.
11. DIAMOND STUD EARRINGS
Timeless and versatile, classic diamond stud earrings are a must-have for any jewelry collection. Their simple yet elegant design enhances any outfit, from casual to formal. With their sparkle, these earrings are sophisticated and withstand the test of time.
12. DIAMOND TENNIS NECKLACE
A diamond tennis necklace adds subtle elegance to any look. Its simple, balanced design makes it a versatile piece, perfect for layering or wearing alone. With its understated beauty, the diamond tennis necklace is a modern classic for everyday and formal wear. reinersjewelry.com
ARTICLE BY RIVER OAKS LIFESTYLE STAFF
PHOTOGRAPHY BY PAIGE MCINTURFF
CELEBRATE FIVE YEARS OF RIVER OAKS LIFESTYLE WITH THE WOMEN WHO HAVE SHAPED THE PUBLICATION AND PUT A SPOTLIGHT ON OUR COMMUNITY.
Celebrating five years, River Oaks Lifestyle Magazine has proudly delivered 60 issues, showcasing the people, places, and businesses that make our city unique. While its name implies a focus on River Oaks, the magazine reaches readers from West University to Upper Kirby and beyond. To celebrate this special milestone, we’re bringing the talented women behind the publication into the spotlight, giving you the opportunity to meet the team and discover what inspires their creative process.
“I am excited about debuting new and exciting services for our advertisers in 2025.”
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT RIVER OAKS LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE? I am the CEO and am responsible for sales, the P&L, HR, and everything on the business side of things.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT WORKING AT RIVER OAKS LIFESTYLE ? Meeting new and interesting people everyday and finding ways to connect them to the greater community.
WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO THE MOST IN 2025? Debuting some new and exciting services for our advertisers and expanding the page count of the publication so we can bring more value to our readers each month.
GO-TO OUTFIT WHEN WORKING FROM HOME: Yoga pants, soft jersey t-shirts in all colors, and my reading glasses.
WHAT ARE YOU INSPIRED BY? The “hero story’” of the small business owners I meet with every day.
WHAT ARE YOUR HOUSTON HAPPY PLACES? Gerald D. Hines Water Wall, Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern, driving along Allen Parkway, River Oaks Theatre, and The Hobby Center.
FAVORITE FOOD INDULGENCE: Boozy Eggnog from Jeni’s Ice Creams.
FAVORITE THINGS ABOUT HOUSTON: The restaurants! I am a major foodie and love trying new places.
IDEAL WEEKEND GETAWAY: The Yurtopian in Wimberley.
LAST TIME ONE OF YOUR PETS MADE YOU LAUGH: My cavapoo, Penny Apricot, makes me laugh multiple times a day. She sleeps with her arms and legs wide open like a cartoon character.
LAST TIME YOU CURSED: Yesterday on I-10 (always seems to happen on I-10).
“Each month, I have the privilege of sharing the stories of Houstonians who are making a meaningful impact in our community.”
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT RIVER OAKS LIFESTYLE? I oversee the creative content for the magazine. Every photograph, word, contributor, and story idea is part of my work for each issue.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT WORKING WITH RIVER OAKS LIFESTYLE? I have been with the magazine for about four years and I am still honored to be able to tell the stories of local people, brands, and businesses.
WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO THE MOST IN 2025? I have so many ideas for great content in the new year – I can’t wait to bring them to life.
WHAT ARE YOU INSPIRED BY? The creativity of our community inspires me daily.
WHAT ARE YOUR HOUSTON HAPPY PLACES? I have spent more time on the Terry Hershey Hike & Bike trail than any other spot in Houston.
FAVORITE FOOD INDULGENCE: Tacos, beer, and chocolate (in that order).
FAVORITE HOUSTON RESTAURANTS: Houston food is the best, so this is a hard question to answer. Le Colonial, Mas Tacos, Hamsa, Little’s Oyster Bar, Amrina, The Original Lupe Tortilla (Hwy 6 location).
Gabi De la Rosa, Managing Editor
LAST TIME YOU WERE STARSTRUCK: When I met Dolores Huerta, a Latina civil rights activist.
LAST TIME YOU CRIED: Cue the waterworks every time I think about my oldest leaving for college next year. @gabioftheroses_htx
“In the coming year, I am excited to see how our events continue to grow and connect people within our community.”
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT RIVER OAKS LIFESTYLE? As the Publication Director, I help our partners share their brand and create meaningful connections within the community through our publications and events.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT WORKING AT RIVER OAKS LIFESTYLE? My favorite part of working at River Oaks Lifestyle is the opportunity to learn from an incredibly talented team of women whose brilliance inspires me every day.
WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO THE MOST IN 2025? I can’t wait to see how our events continue to grow and connect people within our community.
MOST MEMORABLE HOUSTON
MEAL: Peppercorn Chicken at Mala Sichuan. The Sichuan pepper delivers a spicy numbing zing, it’s a one-of-a-kind sensory experience.
WHAT ARE YOUR HOUSTON HAPPY PLACES? Rooftop at The Post and biking through Buffalo Bayou.
FAVORITE THINGS ABOUT HOUSTON: All of the new bike and park expansions.
IDEAL WEEKEND: Central City Co-Op for locally sourced groceries, picnic at the Menil, and shopping at Asch Building.
FAVORITE FOOD INDULGENCE: Chocolate Bun at 85°C Bakery on Bellaire.
WHAT ARE YOU INSPIRED BY? Reading—any book by Paul Auster.
GO-TO OUTFIT: A comfy knit sweater, linen trousers, and my blue shoulder Baggu bag.
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT RIVER OAKS LIFESTYLE? Photographer
“I love being able to capture the essence of a business, family, or person and what makes them unique.”
Lauren Holub, Photographer
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT WORKING WITH RIVER OAKS LIFESTYLE? All of the many different opportunities to photograph that I wouldn’t otherwise have.
WHAT ARE YOU INSPIRED BY? The little moments during shoots. I love being able to capture the essence of a business, family, or person and what makes them unique.
MEANINGFUL “AHA MOMENT”: As a photographer and a people pleaser, I realized that my style isn’t for everyone, which is okay. I try not to copy anyone else’s style and always strive to be myself.
WHAT ARE YOUR HOUSTON HAPPY PLACES? I love Memorial Park’s Clay Family Eastern Glades.
FAVORITE RESTAURANT IN HOUSTON? Bludorn and Little’s Oyster Bar
LAST TIME YOU CRIED: As a portrait photographer, I feel incredibly fortunate to capture the joy of new life and the poignancy of families’ final moments together. Before each session, I pray that my work reflects God’s love for each person I photograph. Some of my clients have passed away, and I’ve had the honor of taking their last portraits. I’ve also documented the beautiful funeral of a newborn. I have cried so many times as a photographer, but I find comfort in knowing these images will be cherished for years to come. @laurenholubphotography
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ARTICLE BY RIVER OAKS LIFESTYLE STAFF
RIVER OAKS THEATRE REOPENS, PRESERVING ITS ICONIC HISTORY WHILE INTRODUCING LIVE EVENTS AND AN ELEVATED CINEMATIC EXPERIENCE.
Houston's River Oaks Theatre reopened after a two-year, multi-million-dollar restoration. The renovation, led by Culinary Khancepts, preserves the theater's original Art Deco architecture while introducing modern amenities and a full-service food and beverage experience. The venue now hosts live events, with the main auditorium equipped for concerts, comedy shows, and other performances. The theater seats 237 guests, has two smaller auditoriums, and a private lounge for intimate gatherings. The theater's main auditorium is equipped with a state-of-theart Barco laser projector, a custom Danley sound system, and full live theatrical lighting and sound systems powered by Q-Sys. The new menu offers a refined selection of food and drinks, and seat-side service is available in all auditoriums. Additionally, the "Cinema Savant" subscription program provides unlimited access to films for $20 per month. theriveroakstheatre.com
ARTICLE BY GABI DE LA ROSA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL ANTHONY
Comfort meets elegance in Chef Leonards’ gnocchi, showcasing fresh Gulf blue crab and indulgent black truffle.
Gnocchi is a classic dish that is timeless and refined. At Eunice, Chef Drake Leonards adds a sophisticated twist with a creamy seafood-infused sauce, fresh blue crab from the Gulf of Mexico, and a delightful burgundy truffle and parmesan cheese topping. It is comfort food in a bowl - perfect with a glass of wine during Houston’s festive holiday season.
To make this dish a great combination of textures and flavors, Chef Leonards focuses on creating a great gnocchi by boiling the potatoes and then drying them in the oven. While they’re still warm, he mixes in egg yolk, butter, white pepper, fresh nutmeg, and enough flour to create the dough. Working quickly, he rolls the dough into logs, cuts them into 1-inch pieces, and rolls them on a gnocchi paddle before poaching them in salted simmering water for 30 seconds.
The creamy sauce is made from a reduction of crab stock to bring out the seafood flavor, dry vermouth, fennel, shallots, herbs, cream, and butter.
The menu at Eunice focuses on the flavors of Chef Leonards childhood. Growing up in South Louisiana, blue crab from the Gulf of Mexico was a staple, and two jumbo lumps make a flavorful appearance in this dish.
The gnocchi is topped with aromatic black burgundy truffles and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
eunicerestaurant.com
JOIN OUR MISSION TO SPREAD WARMTH AND COMPASSION BY NOMINATING SOMEONE WHO DESERVES A CHRISTMAS BLESSING
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way.”
As the Christmas season approaches, we’re reminded of the power of community and kindness. This year, through City Lifestyle’s nonprofit, The Kingdom Building Foundation, we will help people who may be struggling quietly without the support they need. But we need your help to find them.
Over the past three years, this campaign has grown into something truly beautiful, touching the lives of more than 150 families nationwide last year alone. Each year, we’ve seen firsthand how generosity can bring relief, hope, and a renewed sense of faith in others.
One person we had the opportunity to help was an 11-year-old boy diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. After he had to undergo chemotherapy and surgery to remove his eye, his doctors recommended a prosthetic one, but insurance wouldn’t cover the cost, calling it “cosmetic.” When we heard his story, we knew we had to help. Because of this campaign, he got his prosthetic eye and a piece of his childhood back with it.
Another was a wife and mother of two who fought a yearlong health battle and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Just days before Christmas, she underwent surgery but passed away due to complications. Before her surgery, she received one of our cards and, in tears, told us this gift gave her some peace, knowing her family would have help in the difficult times ahead. It wasn’t just about the financial support but knowing that someone cared.
These stories remind us why this campaign is so meaningful. It’s not just
about writing checks; it’s about telling people they aren’t forgotten and that someone is there to lend a hand. It’s about giving families a moment of relief when the world feels unbearable.
“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 this holiday season.”
Together with Matthew Perry, President, Steven adds that the gratitude from recipients was overwhelming, affirming this tradition’s importance. “We believe God has blessed our company with success,” Matthew adds, “so we want to be a blessing to others.”
We know many more people could use a little help this Christmas, and that’s where you come in. Do you know someone who could use a blessing? We want to hear about them.
To nominate someone, scan the QR code or follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the form in our bio. Nominations are open from November 27 to December 10, 2024. Let’s bring hope to those who need it most.
The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized. All entries will be read, and selections and the amount given to each recipient will be based on the severity of the need. For more information, visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.com
DECEMBER 1ST
A Christmas Carol
Alley Theater | 7:00 PM
Ever since Charles Dickens first penned A Christmas Carol in 1843, it has seen myriad stage adaptations and the popularity of this tale of redemption and second chances has seemingly never waned. From stage to screen, opera to one-man show, it is one of the most influential Christmas shows and a traditional holiday outing for most of us.
DECEMBER 4TH
Toyota Center | 8:00 PM
Admit it; you loved Justin Timberlake as a member of pop-powerhouse NSYNC. Now, as a solo performer, Justin Timberlake has hit it big with songs like Cry Me a River, Like I Love You, Mirrors and many more! The prince of pop has announced his first tour since 2019's The Man of The Woods Tour.
DECEMBER 7TH
Jones Hall | 7:30 PM
Houston Symphony Orchestra celebrate the holiday season with a trip to Vienna, performing a selection of the greatest Viennese Waltzes in the classical canon by Johann and and Josef Strauss! A joyful musical tradition, each Waltz is 10-minutes long or less, making it the perfect introduction to the orchestra for everyone.
DECEMBER 9TH
Yo-Yo Ma
Jones Hall | 7:30 PM
Needing almost no introduction, multiple Grammy-winning cellist Yo-Yo Ma is arguably classical music's biggest star. The American virtuoso performs all over the world to sold-out houses and remains one of the best-selling recording artists in the classical field. His versatility, energy, and pure love of creating and performing exquisite music make him a favorite for audiences of all ages.
DECEMBER 10TH
Frozen
Sarofim Hall | 7:30 PM
There's an icy treat in store for audiences this season! Bringing the stunning landscapes of Arandelle to the stage, join Anna, Elsa, Olaf, and more for this exciting local production of Disney's mammoth hit. With a newly conceived staging that includes glittering new sets and costumes, this is set to be all the fun of the movie and then some.
DECEMBER 12TH
Smart Financial Center | 7:30 PM
Join legendary saxophonist Kenny G. as he hits the road on his fantastically festive Holiday Hits Show! Hear your favorite Christmas tunes like never before as the celebrated Kenny G gives some of the world's classics get a Jazz twist.
DECEMBER 12TH
Houston Symphony - Very Merry Pops
Jones Hall | 7:30 PM
Join the Houston Symphony once more as they stage their beloved annual holiday spectacular, Very Merry Pops bringing festive joy and merriment to you! So gather your friends and family and journey to the cozy winter wonderland of Jones Hall, filled to the brim with Christmas spirit and holiday cheer. It's fun for all the family, and is the perfect way to begin your countdown to the big day.
DECEMBER 14TH
Houston's 12K of Christmas
Sam Houston Park | 7:30 AM
2024 represents our 11th year of spreading holiday cheer through running. This year is sure to be the best yet so register now to reserve your spot in Houston’s Christmas Running Tradition: Houston’s 12K of Christmas! Don’t miss this fun, Christmas-themed Houston 12K & 6K run that the whole family can enjoy! There will be appearances by jolly old St. Nick and his elves.
DECEMBER 18TH
Reliant Lights Mayor's Holiday Spectacular
City Hall | 6:00 PM
The Mayor and Reliant will kick off the holiday season at the Reliant Lights Mayor’s Holiday Spectacular – 105 years at City Hall. The annual event is fun and free for the entire family. We will celebrate 105 years with live music and the lighting of the holiday tree.