Colorado Expression Magazine - November-December 2022

A

Gift andGiving Guide

A Toast to The Season

The holiday spirit leaps to life in this treasured family tradition. Featuring breathtaking new sets and costumes for the second year, Colorado Ballet invites you to follow Clara and her Nutcracker prince on the sweet, snow dusted adventure only Tchaikovsky could score. See where the story you know by heart takes yours this year.

TICKETS AT COLORADOBALLET.ORG

Supported by:

FEATURING THE COLORADO BALLET ORCHESTRA AT THE ELLIE CAULKINS OPERA HOUSE

LEAH MCFADDEN BY RACHEL NEVILLE

CHERRY CREEK MALL | PARK MEADOWS FORT COLLINS | FLATIRONS | BOULDER

features

Decking the Halls

By the CE Editorial Team

Local experts share their picks for decorating all season long.

Holiday Gift Guide

By the CE Editorial Team

Make your list and check it twice with our 2022 gift guide.

Colorado Gives Day Guide

By Lisa Buscietta

It’s better to give than to receive, especially on Colorado Gives Day, when donations make a bigger difference.

Photo courtesy of Canada Goose

The versatile Marlow coat by Canada Goose makes the per fect holiday gift for Colorado’s changing weather.

Photo courtesy of Homefest

A front door bough with a touch of pine and southern magnolias.

HOLIDAY CHEER

A WiesnerMedia Publication

Group Publisher ELIZABETH HAMILTON ehamilton@coloradoexpression.com

Managing Editor HILLARY LOCKE MUJICA hillary@coloradoexpression.com

Operations Director LISA BUSCIETTA lisa@coloradoexpression.com

Design/Production HANNAH ROGERS

Photography PAMELA CRESS, JENSEN SUTTA, CAITLIN ROTH

Digital/Social Media MISTI MILLS

Events and Partnership Coordinator/Digital JOSIE CISNEROS jcisneros@chlml.com

Production Manager DAWN PAUL dpaul@chlml.com

Contributing Writers

CYNTHIA PASQUALE, DANIELLE YUTHAS, HILLARY LOCKE MUJICA, LISA BUSCIETTA, CE EDITORIAL TEAM Sales sales@coloradoexpression.com

PHOEBE GRACE ROZELLE prozelle@coloradoexpression.com

Inquiries and Submissions info@coloradoexpression.com Printed in Denver, Colorado

WiesnerMedia

WIESNER dwiesner@wiesnermedia.com

JON RICH jrich@wiesnermedia.com

WIESNER jwiesner@wiesnermedia.com

WIESNER pat.wiesner@gmail.com

BARBOSA pbarbosa@wiesnermedia.com

PENNEY SMITH psmith@wiesnermedia.com

PHANMANY vphanmany@wiesnermedia.com

This is the time of year when we should take stock of all the good things in our lives and remember the blessings of family and friends and the community we live in.

We have the most generous people in this state of ours, and so many of us give countless amounts of time, money and resources to improve the lives of others. In this issue, we showcase Colorado’s nonprofits that have caught our attention as we plan for Colorado Gives Day.

Since 2010, Colorado Gives Day has raised $362 million to help local organizations grow and thrive.

This issue wouldn’t be complete without our annual Holiday Gift Guide. We have pages filled with unique gifts for everyone on your list.

We are also excited to share some festive toddies that are sure to impress your guests this season, and we spoke with local chefs who shared some of their favorite holiday recipes. We can’t wait to add these to our holiday menus this year.

With all the parties, end-of-year to-dos and decadent treats, don’t forget to carve out some time for yourself. Check out our list of spas, near and far, that will help you relax and enjoy the season.

As we head into the sometimes-harried holidays, our wish is that we can all focus on the true meaning of the season and on what we’re most grateful for.

At Colorado Expression, we are so thankful for all our readers and the support they give us throughout the year!

Cheers to you and yours, Elizabeth

ELIZABETH HAMILTON Group Publisher

Colorado Expression , Colorado Homes & Lifestyles , Mountain Living

Photo By Jensen Sutta

In This Issue SHOT IN THE DARK Galas, events and happenings around town BITS & PIECES

Get in the holiday spirit with our roundup of seasonal events

& Savor

Holiday Recipes

Art Scene

Homemade Holiday, Leveled Up

Wreaths, trees, centerpiec es and more made with love and a little magic

must-have accessory

Form, function and fash ion combine for one-of-akind mittens and gloves

ESCAPES

in Strasbourg

Holiday Cocktails

Body & Soul

Winter Spa Experience

SPREADING HOLIDAY CHEER

Photo courtesy from the Hip Photography

Photo courtesy of Château Vaux-le-Vicomte

ALL FOR A GOOD CAUSE

A Night in White

The Shining Stars Foundation held its second annual Night in White party on Aug. 6 at the home of Arlene Mohler Johnson.

Photographer: Pamela Cress

Fête des Fleurs

Denver Botanic Gardens hosted its 38th annual fundraising gala, Fête des Fleurs, on Aug. 26 at the gardens.

Caitlin Roth

ALL FOR A GOOD CAUSE

Shot in the Dark

ALL FOR A GOOD CAUSE

Birthday Bash

The Children’s Museum held its 49th annual Birthday Bash fundraiser on Sept. 9. Proceeds benefit the muse um’s educational programs and exhibits.

Photographer: Caitlin Roth

1 Sachi Osatinski, Jennifer Portz, Stephanie Jason, Emma Nasif

Michael Yankovich (Museum President and CEO), Fayoke Longe, Gretchen Kerr (COO)

Kerri Atter (director of exhibits), Kimber Kuhl (associate director of marketing and communications), Kylie Gorder

Molly Ingalls, Allison Ingalls

Megan Whelan (event co-chair), Jen Kilgore (event co-chair)

Mullins, Derek Mullins

Braun, Jon Braun

Devon

Andrew Bolano

and Justin Eisner

and Amy Walchek

GIVE THE GIFT OF THIS HOLIDAY SEASON!

MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING

Shakespeare’s classic love story, performed in the round Sep 30 – Nov 6 | Kilstrom Theatre

HOTTER THAN EGYPT

An American couple’s captivating journey toward self-discovery Feb 10 – Mar 12 | Kilstrom Theatre

An opulent retelling of a timeless Christmas classic Nov 18 – Dec 24 | Wolf Theatre

A CHRISTMAS CAROL THE COLOR PURPLE

A musical adaptation of Alice Walker’s masterpiece Mar 31 – May 7 | Wolf Theatre

START AT

LAUGHS IN SPANISH THE 39 STEPS

World premiere that’s part heist film, part telenovela, and 100% chistoso Jan 27 – Mar 12 | Singleton Theatre

A fast-paced whodunit based on Hitchcock’s beloved film Apr 14 – Jun 18 | Singleton Theatre

Illustrations

Kyle Malone

Shot in the Dark

ALL FOR A GOOD CAUSE

Flock Party

Flock Party 2022 was held on Sept. 10 at the Denver Zoo to raise funds for the flamingos' new habitat.

Photographer: Pamela Cress

Shot in the Dark ALL FOR A GOOD CAUSE

A Grateful Harvest at Roundup River Ranch

Roundup River Ranch hosted its fundraiser, A Grateful Harvest, on Aug. 13 at its campsite in the Vail Valley, raising $1.4 million.

Jack Affleck

destination Elevate

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ALL FOR A GOOD CAUSE

Fill a Plate for Hunger

a Plate for Hunger is

and

was held at

in

its

reduce

premier annual event to help

The

on Sept.

Photographer: Pamela Cress

By Danielle Yuthas

Nov. 13, The Brown Palace

Champagne Cascade

Let the magic of the holidays warm your spirit at the 34th annual Champagne Cascade at The Brown Palace bene fiting the Make-A-Wish Foundation. This iconic Denver event features master swordsmen using Napoleonic sabers to sever the bottlenecks of Möet champagne magnums. The champagne is then poured into the uppermost glass of a two-story high, 5,000-plus glass pyramid. It cascades into the glasses below, creating a stunning display of streaming fizz while a cheering crowd lines all levels of the holiday-adorned Atrium Lobby. brownpalace.com

Nov.11-Dec. 23, Colorado Railroad Museum

The Polar Express

This immersive experience is for true believers looking to hear the silver bell and feel the magic of boarding the Polar Express. The authentic coaches of the coal-fired steam locomotive and intimate cabaret-style show are topped off by a visit from Santa and lots of cookies and cocoa. It all makes for an unforgettable evening for fam ilies of all ages.

Nov. 4-6, Gates Field House at the University of Denver campus

Mile High Holiday Mart

Shop for one-of-a-kind holiday decorations and gifts while supporting women and families experiencing poverty in Denver. The Junior League of Denver (JLD) is in its 43rd year of the event and attracts many local vendors offering housewares, food, jewelry, apparel, pet products and more. Also for sale (at a discounted price of $20) at the mart: Centennial Celebrations, the JLD cookbook celebrating the organization’s 100th year in Colorado, which offers more than 200 crowd-pleasing recipes for any occasion. jld.org

The magic of the Polar Express ushers in the season.

Photo courtesy of Colorado Railroad Museum

Photo courtesy of the Brown Palace

Kick off the holiday season at the 34th annual Champagne Cascade at the Brown Palace.

Nov. 18-Jan. 7, Denver Botanic Gardens

Blossoms of Light

Denver Botanic Gardens welcomes the holidays with Blossoms of Light starting Nov. 18. For more than three decades, it has been a Denver holiday tradition to visit the 24-acre display adorned with more than 1 million LED lights. New designs are incorporated each year to create a new experience, which takes a full year to plan. botanicgardens.org

Nov. 18 - Dec. 31, Civic Center Park

Mile High Tree Lighting

Standing seven stories tall and measuring 39 feet at its widest, America’s tallest digital Christmas tree adorned with 60,000 LED lights takes center stage in Civic Center Park, marking the arrival of the holiday season to the Mile High City and welcoming many of the festivities that go with it. The tree’s animated lighting embel lishes a musical show featured throughout the evenings, turning crisp winter nights into a true holiday experience. denver.org

Nov.18-Dec. 24, Wolf Theatre at Denver Center for the Performing Arts

A Christmas Carol

The musical adaptation of Charles Dickens’ classic novel A Christmas Carol returns to the Denver Center for the Performing Arts this holiday season. The story of Ebenezer Scrooge as he explores Christmas past, present and future continues to resonate through the generations, and is a holiday favorite. denvercenter.org

Ebenezer Scrooge taking center stage in A Christmas Carol.

Lights dazzle throughout the Denver Botanic Gardens.

Photo courtesy of Denver Botanic Gardens

Photo courtesy of the DCPA

Nov.18-Dec. 23, Civic Center Park

Christkindlmarket

Experience the old-world charm of European markets right here in Denver. Christkindlmarket offers German cuisine and an artisan market place complete with entertainment and a holi day happy hour. Among the libation options is gluhwein, a German mulled wine. (The name translates to “glow-wine”, based on the feeling it gives imbibers.) The entertainment lineup ranges from live bands, ugly sweater nights, dancers and a visit from Krampus, the legendary German goat-demon who scares misbehaving children at Christmastime.

christkindlmarketdenver.com

CIN CIN!

MANGIA BEVI CAFE

forty years

FINE FOOD

TURNING FANS INTO FOODIES

HAPPY ARE THE HANDS THAT FEED

EVENTSIGNITE THE SENSES

Nov. 18-Jan. 1, Gaylord Rockies

Christmas at Gaylord Rockies

A holiday family experience told through ice sculptures is making a frosty return to Gaylord Rockies after a two-year hiatus. This year’s theme is A Charlie Brown Christmas (and it took 40 artisans six weeks to create 10 scenes for this celebration). In addition to the sculptures, ICE! has interactive ice slides, tunnels and arches for kids and kids-at-heart to explore. Plus, the Broadway-style show Cirque: Spirit of Christmas is also at the resort, alongside activities like ice bumper cars, snow tubing, ice skating and snowball activities.

christmasatgaylordrockies.marriott.com

A Charlie Brown Christ mas comes to life at The Gaylord Rockies.

Shoppers discover bespoke gifts and holiday entertainment.

Photo courtesy of Christkindlmarket

Photo courtesy of Gaylord Hotels

Fridays-Sundays, Nov. 25-Dec. 18, Dairy Block

Après Ski Holiday Market

Shop local this holiday season at Dairy Block’s third annual Après Ski Holiday Market. Held in the Dairy Block Alley and inspired by a European ski village, this holiday market host vendors of fering clothing, home goods and more. The party continues with holiday entertainment including performances by Denver’s Jingle Belle Carolers and free photos with the Grinch from Thanksgiving weekend through the end of December.

dairyblock.com

Nov. 26-Dec. 24, Ellie Caulkins Opera House

The Nutcracker

New sets and costumes alongside the classic Tchaikovsky score bring Clara and her Nutcracker to life for a new generation again and again. The Colorado Ballet invites you to the annual Christmas party at the Stahlbaum house and through the lands of snow and sweets. It’s a great introduction to ballet and the arts for children ages 5 and older.

coloradoballet.org

CENTRAL CITY OPERA GUILD

l’esprit de noël

holiday home tour

NOVEMBER 18 - 19, 2022 | 10 AM - 4 PM

Visit lesprithometour.com for more information.

We are back IN PERSON for 2022 and featuring 5 beautiful homes in the Glenmoor Country Club neighborhood! Join us and be inspired by the holiday designs of Denver’s top florists and table designers. This year’s tour will also feature a holiday boutique and ticketed lunch option on Saturday. PRESENTED BY at

CENTRAL CITY OPERA GUILD

and giraffes light the night sky in fanciful colors.

Dec. 3-Jan. 15, Denver Zoo

Zoo Lights

Zoo Lights, the bright and festive attraction at the Denver Zoo, combines traditional touches of the season like roasted chestnuts and hot chocolate with the unique opportunity to be surrounded by the magic of the lights. denverzoo.org

Dec. 6

Colorado Gives Day

The Community First Foundation and FirstBank encourage Coloradans to “Give Where You Live” and donate to a favorite charity. Corporate challenges enhance the effort as those charities that receive 10 percent of total proceeds are further rewarded with 10 percent of a $1 million incentive fund. coloradogives.org

Thank You for your generous support of

Mercedes-Benz of Denver

BY Co-Chairs

Robin Chotin Bonnie Mandarich Abby Perlmutter Miller

Honorary Chair Elizabeth Hamilton

Photos courtesy of Denver Zoo

By the CE Editorial Team

Helpful tips from the pros to get your home into the holiday spirit

As with interior design, holiday décor trends take their cue from the runway, and this year is no exception. Yes, traditional decora tions will always reign but, according to the experts, 2022 brings vibrant “festival” colors like bright pinks, oranges, blues and purples to the cele brations. Out-of-the-box decorations like paper lanterns, honeycomb balls and swagged lighting that we typically see during summer months are also on tap to bring joy to the season.

It will be a white Christmas with flocked (snow-covered) or all-white Christmas trees aglow. Helping us live out our dreams of a snowy Christmas, white-dusted pre-lit trees from Balsam Hill will take center stage in living rooms across the country, or as tabletop tree scenes adorning entryways (can you hear Bing Crosby now?). According to Laura Stroud of Homefest (a cherished Denver destina tion for over 28 years), you shouldn’t forget the wreaths, swags, garlands and birch branches adorned with ribbons and botanical elements. “Bringing the outdoors in with greenery will immediately set the tone for the holiday season,” she says.

If a faux tree isn’t for you, foraged bare branches adorned with baubles, year-round home plants covered in tiny fairy lights, or anything and everything flora-related has the potential to replace or add to the Christmas tree décor in your home this year. Jäala Sheldon, owner and creative director of jäala & co., is a local event planner with global experience and more creativity in her pinky finger than most of us have in our entire beings. “Large trees aren’t always an option if space is limited. Plus, it’s fun to think out of the box and find creative, environmentally friendly ways to decorate throughout your home. For example, I always like to put together little tree-decorating kits for kids with mini ornaments and ribbons to create their own special trees for their rooms.”

As for setting the mood, candlelight is just the ticket. Tra ditional candlesticks with tapered candles are a key part of Christmas tablescapes, but vibrant two-tone, twisted, shaped and embellished candles add a pop of color to fes tive aesthetics, Sheldon says. Another ambience-enhancer:

Vintage ornaments to dazzle and delight.

Photo by laura adai on Unsplash

coveted Simon Pierce glass trees, which add layers of warmth and elegance to your table or mantel. Plus, they’re the perfect gift for the collector in your life. Hand-poured candles in seasonal fragrances will be high on everyone’s gifting list. Their hand-blown ves sels can be repurposed as vases or as the perfect catchall for your desk, as Stroud suggests. But if you’re going “all in” on the candles, don’t forget the match es—these little flames are a gift in their own right, with oversized, eye-catching matchboxes in a rainbow of colors and patterns.

With the retro décor trend still riding high, expect to see vintage Christmas decorations widely available this year, and nothing says “retro Christmas décor” quite like bottle-brush Christmas tree collections. These little tree decorations come in every size and color imaginable; some with tiny baubles, some without. At Homefest, they take big, long metallic trays and deck them with an assortment of bottle-brush trees or other seasonal elements for a truly breathtaking look. “They range from chic and sophisticated to whimsical, tradi tional and kid-focused themes,” says Stroud, making them the perfect centerpiece.

Photo courtesy of Homefest

Photo courtesy of Homefest

Photo courtsey of Homefest

A warm welcome with a custom wreath from Homefest.

A simple tray filled with red and green ornaments, silver trees and greenery makes for a festive holiday centerpiece.

Lafco candles are always the perfect gift. Pair one with a forged iron wine coaster by Jan Barboglio from Homefest for a truly one-of-a-kind gift.

Photo courtesy of Homefest

Photo courtesy of Homefest

A display of handblown glass trees by Simon Pierce.

Silver and gold accents will carry you from Thanksgiving through New Year’s.

Jingle all the way with premade signature cocktails at the ready for all your guests.

Set your table early so you can enjoy the beautiful holiday scene for longer than one night.

Create your menu in advance and ask your guests to bring a dish; the holidays are hurried enough without the stress of last-minute dinner disasters.

Have a premade signature holiday cocktail in a decanter so guests can help them selves as they arrive. Then, offer drink sta tions throughout your home with wine and beer, allowing the crowd to mingle instead of getting stuck at the bar. Don’t forget mocktails for the kids, too!

Opt for no-bake appetizers such as grazing boards and charcuterie, and save the oven for the main event.

Set the mood with music. Hire a DJ or cre ate a curated Christmas playlist to get the party going.

Don’t forget the parting gifts: Write a heart felt note to each guest with instructions to open on Christmas morning. They will feel so loved and remember what a gracious host you are!

Available in clear, red or green, these Vietri prism glass tumblers from The Lark Denver make every cocktail festive and are the perfect complement to any bar.

Hanukkah is filled with traditions, and your tablescape should reflect those time-honored cus toms. White Peacock’s Blue Cosmos Luna Flare placemats provide a beautiful background in blue and gold, and the Kim Seybert Flare napkin rings add the finishing touch with a bit of cele bratory flare.

Photo courtesy of Jaala Sheldon

Photo courtesy of White Peacock

Photo courtesy of The Lark Denver

Whether it’s honeycomb Christmas trees, paper stars or the resurgence of paper chains and garlands, there is no doubt that paper décor is set to be one of the biggest Christmas trends this year, and it has had a serious upgrade of late. “Paper décor ticks all the boxes—eco-friendly, fun, easy to make and get the kids involved,” says Sheldon. “It’s been a key trend all year long and is the perfect way to add a bit of festive whimsy to your home.” We love the variety of paper table runners and mats from Hester & Cook in everything from classic bold stripes and metallics to more kid-friendly candy-cane patterns and paper placemats with trees and gingerbread houses—perfect for the kids’ table.

With a passion for the great outdoors, woodland creatures have been widely popular in recent years, but on top of the list

for 2022 are bright-eyed snowy owls of all shapes and sizes. Used in combination with reindeer, foxes, squirrels, mice, hedgehogs, bears and bunnies, these symbols of winter won derland seem perfect for a Colorado Christmas. Woodland scenes nestled in a corner nook, or collections of woodland ornaments for a children’s tree, are simple ways to embrace this fairytale trend, Sheldon says.

Both Sheldon and Stroud believe that mixing traditional family heirloom decorations with trendy pieces creates a sort of time capsule for years to come and allows your unique style to take center stage as you celebrate with loved ones. How you decorate for the winter holidays is an extension of your personal family—so no matter what décor you choose, it’s sure to bring joy to all who walk through your door.

A rainbow of ornaments ready for holiday merriment.

Photo courtesy of Jaala Sheldon

jäala

jaala.com

CHEF TESTED TRADITIONAL DISHES

By Cynthia Pasquale

The holiday season brings families and friends together to celebrate. It’s also a time when traditions fill households. These rituals might have been passed down through generations, crossed oceans or have been recently born. They shape our identities, make us feel comfortable, and unsheathe warm memories. Whether cultural, religious or simply a fun way to enjoy the holidays, traditions help create and maintain bonds.

Oftentimes, customs are intertwined with, and even defined by, food. We asked three area chefs to share their favorite holiday recipes and what makes them special.

Andrea Uzarowski’s grand mother Magdalena taught her to bake shortbread and cinnamon cookies.

Photo courtesy of Prim + Co

Chef John Broening

Chef John Broening

If you want guests to “ooh” and “aah” about a holiday dish, try John Broening’s colorful twist on mashed potatoes. That’s the reaction he gets when he serves his vegetable mash. “It’s real ly pretty and not something you will see a thousand times on the table,” he says.

Broening, executive chef at Three Saints Revival, also surpris es diners with lightly pickled vegetables, a dish that cuts through the usually rich food served during holiday events. He’s from Baltimore, a city with a large German population.

“The holiday tradition [there] is to put sauerkraut on the table with turkey and everything else,” he says. “The pickled vegetables dish is in that tradition.”

Broening has flourished in the Denver food arena for years. Three Saints Revival (representing the holy trinity of wine, tapas and spirits) specializes in Mediterranean tapas or, says the chef, “food I like to eat when I’m not working.” His dishes are inspired, in part, by the time he has spent in Greece, Turkey and Portugal.

Chef Manny Barella

The cuisine at Manny Barella’s childhood home in Monterrey, Mexico, was infused with Mexican flavors, of course, but also was influenced by American dishes.

Christmas dining celebrations always included a pasta dish made with roasted poblano peppers and cream cheese that still makes Barella think of home and family. He reached out to his mom for the recipe and, he jokes, it is so easy that even his sister learned to make it.

“It was a staple at our house, and we would ask [mom] to make that pasta in between Christmases,” he says.

Barella is the executive chef at Bellota, Spanish for acorn. There, he showcases the Mexican flavors that have been memorialized in recipes passed down from family to family. Featured are tacos, salsa and “Mexican cocktails that go beyond the margarita.” Bellota is available for private holiday parties serving up to 50 guests.

He also leads the Hispanic Restaurant Association’s efforts to be ambassadors of authentic cuisine and was a James Beard Best Emerging Chef semifinalist this year.

Chef Andrea Uzarowski

Each time Andrea Uzarowski makes her family-favorite cinnamon cookies, she thinks about her grandmother, who taught her to bake beginning at age 7. “She is the reason I ventured away from my career in investment banking” to follow her passion for food and cooking, Uzarowski says. Growing up, her family made the cookies as treats, as holiday gifts, for school events or to decorate the tree. She follows that tradition with her own family.

Topped with meringue instead of typical icing, the cookies are gluten-free and “a little sweet bite so you feel like you treat yourself without overindulging,” she says.

Uzarowski recently opened Suti and Co., a Scandinavian-style café in Boulder that pays homage to her childhood in Denmark and her grandmother. “All the things we have here are from her recipe book. I want to bring them to folks, and I hope they will love them as

Bellota 3350 Brighton Blvd., Denver 720-542-3721 denverbellota.com

much as I do,” she says. The shop also sells imported, artisan-made home goods.

The shop has been a longtime dream and creates a space that resembles her home. “I want to allow clients to slow down a bit and feel like they are in a safe, cozy environment.”

Uzarowski continues to operate Fresh Food Further, a catering and private chef company focused on local and seasonal ingredients. “We are a one-stop shop, helping with everything from rentals to the aesthetic to menu designs and tasting. My goal is to make sure folks don’t stress.” When she cooks for her clients, she says, it’s her way of giving them a hug.

Suti and Co. 2031 16th St., Boulder sutiandco.com

Fresh Food Further 303-261-2482 freshfoodfurther.com

Cynthia Pasquale is a Denver writer.

Chef Manny Barella

Chef Andrea Uzarowski

Photo courtesy of Prim + Co

Photo courtesy of Feed Media

Photo courtesy of Feed Media

Poblano Pasta

Ingredients

2 pounds spaghetti 2 poblano peppers

3 ounces cream cheese

1 cup milk (or more for a thinner sauce)

2 teaspoons Knorr chicken bouillon

salt and pepper to taste

3/4 cup finely diced white onion

2 tablespoons chopped garlic 6 tablespoons butter

Optional: queso fresco and/or chopped cilantro for garnish

Directions

Roast poblanos directly over fire until blis tered, then place them in a container and cover. Wait 10 minutes, then peel peppers using a spoon. Remove veins and seeds and discard. (For a more charred flavor, do not remove the burned skin.)

Bring a large pot of water with 1 tablespoon of salt to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions.

Place the peppers, cream cheese, milk, bouil lon and salt and pepper in a blender and mix well.

Heat a large pot over low heat. Add the on ion, garlic and butter and cook until the onion

and garlic are translucent and soft but have not started to brown, about 5 minutes. Add the poblano cream and mix well.

Drain the pasta, reserving some of the liquid. Add the pasta to the pot containing the cream and mix well. Adjust the consistency of the sauce to your liking using the pasta water.

Season to taste.

If desired, garnish with queso fresco and/or chopped cilantro before serving.

Recipe from Chef Manny Barella (and his mom)

Mixed Root Vegetable Mash

Serves 10.

Ingredients

5 large Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks

½ pound soft unsalted butter, prefer ably Kerry Gold; reserve 2 table spoons for garnish

1/3 cup whole milk

Kosher salt

2 large carrots, peeled and cut into ½-inch dice

Directions

Place the potatoes in a medium-sized pot and add cold water to cover. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil. Simmer 15-20 minutes, until tender. Drain well in a colander and mash the potatoes. Fold in the butter, then the milk. Keep covered in a warm place.

While the potatoes are cooking, drain the celery root and place in a small pot along with the carrots and rutabagas. Add water with a pinch of salt to cover.

The vegetable mash is a twist on a conventional masked potato dish.

1 small celery root, rinsed, peeled, cut into ½-inch dice and soaked in water with a splash of lemon juice

1 medium rutabaga, peeled and cut into ½-inch dice

2 scallions, thinly sliced

Extra-virgin olive oil and freshly ground black pepper for garnish

Bring to a boil and simmer about 10 minutes, just until tender.

Drain the root vegetables, then fold into the potato mixture. Fold in the scallions at the last minute.

Serve the mash in a casserole and garnish with the remaining butter, a drizzle of olive oil and black pepper.

Recipe from Chef John Broening

Photo courtesy of Feed Media

VegetableEscabeche

Serves 10-12.

Ingredients

cups champagne or white wine vinegar

cup granulated sugar

cup water

tablespoons kosher salt

tablespoon coriander seeds

teaspoon black peppercorns

cloves of garlic, shaved

small carrots, peeled and cut thinly on the bias

Directions

In a medium pot, bring the vinegar, sugar, water, salt, coriander seeds, black peppercorns and garlic to a boil. Simmer 5 minutes, then add the carrots and simmer 5 more minutes. Add the chiles (or bell pepper) and simmer 1 minute. Add the cauliflower and simmer 2 minutes. Add the red onions and remove the pan from the heat. Transfer the escabeche to a

Cinnamon Holiday Cookies

Makes two dozen 3-inch star-shaped or round cookies.

Ingredients

2 large egg whites

2 cups confectioners’ sugar

2 cups finely ground al monds, or almond flour

1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon

1½ teaspoons vanilla sug ar or pure vanilla extract

1/8 teaspoon salt

Directions

Preheat oven to 300 degrees. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.

In a large bowl, beat egg whites until soft peaks form. Add confectioners’ sugar and beat until fully incor porated and glossy.

Reserve 1/3 cup of the egg white mixture (meringue) and set aside to use as frosting.

Add ground almonds or almond flour, cinnamon, va nilla sugar (or extract) and salt to meringue. Gently fold to incorporate ingredients. Mixture will be sticky. If too sticky, add more ground nuts and sugar.

Lay out a sheet of parchment paper and dust with confectioners’ sugar. Roll dough out to about ¼-inch thickness. If dough is too sticky, dust rolling pin with confectioners’ sugar.

4 Red Fresno chiles, cut thinly into rounds, or 1 medium red bell pep per, cut into 2-inch rectangles

1 small head cauliflower, cut into 1-inch florets

2 medium red onions, cut into 2-inch strips

¼ cup fresh dill sprigs

3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

stainless-steel bowl or plastic dish and refrigerate until cool. (The dish can be made up to a day ahead at this point.)

When ready to serve, place the es cabeche and enough of its pickling liquid to moisten in a shallow platter. Garnish with the dill sprigs and olive oil, and serve.

Recipe from Chef John Broening

Cut with a star-shaped or round cookie cutter, dip ping the cutter into water to avoid sticking. Excess dough can be re-rolled multiple times.

Transfer cookies to the lined baking sheet, spacing 2 inches apart, then brush tops with reserved meringue frosting.

Bake for 11-13 minutes, or until the bottom of the cookies are slightly browned and the meringue top ping is set and lightly browned.

Transfer to a cooling rack and allow to cool complete ly before storing. Cookies can be kept in an airtight container for 10-14 days.

Recipe from Chef Andrea Uzarowski

The tang of this dish contrasts with other rich foods that often grace holiday tables.

Photo courtesy of Feed Media

TOASTING THE SEASON

By Cynthia Pasquale

Locke + Co. lockeandcodistilling.com

Celebratory drinks, complete with holiday glitz and reindeer antlers, of course.

Bonnie Brae Liquor 785 S. University Blvd., Denver 303-733-7261 bonniebraeliquor.com

There is no wrong way to enjoy Locke + Co.’s Aspen Aged rye whiskeys.

For holiday get-togethers, serve it neat to savor the true essence of the whiskey, or over ice to open up the flavors and aromas. “We also love it in a variety of cocktails,” says the company’s co-founder, Rick Talley.

He and Owen Locke turned a garage hobby into an enter prise after years of perfecting the craft of distilling spirits and their special recipe.

What separates Locke + Co.’s rye whiskeys from others, in part, is charred aspen wood discs that are floated in the liquid during the aging process. “The aspen imparts light brown sugar, cinnamon, fig and earthy, grassy notes to the whiskey,” says Talley.

Their flagship whiskey hit the market in 2018. It is aged

in oak barrels that have been charred for a variety of time periods, producing different flavors depending how long the barrel is burned. Next, the whiskey from all the barrels is blended in tanks, and the aspen discs are added to the mix. After a bit more aging and blending, the product is ready for bottling. It won gold in both world and international spirits competitions in 2022.

Earlier this year, Locke + Co. released single-barrel whis keys, which are aged longer and not blended. “You’ll see bits of char in the bottles because it is unfiltered and uncut,” says Talley, adding that these whiskeys are between 128 and 132 proof.

The pair first added aspen wood to their whiskey as hobby ists. It took about six years to find the right amount of rye mash to balance the effects of the aspen, which tended to remove some of the spice from the liquor, says Talley.

“We love that creative process,” he says, and the pair contin ue to experiment with new concepts.

They’ve produced a wine-barrel-finished whiskey as well as a bourbon. And they are researching how different types of wood from the Western Slope—peach, apricot, cherry, pear, black walnut and pecan—impact the rye whiskey taste.

Holiday guests may not be whiskey drinkers, so stock your bar with a variety of liquors. Choose the ingredients for classic cocktails—think a Manhattan or Old-Fashioned— as well as gin and vodka, says Bruce Gallagher, owner of Bonnie Brae Liquor. “Across the board, they are acceptable, and you don’t have to get too creative, too expensive or too exorbitant with purchases.”

Most important, he says, is to buy supplies early.

The pandemic may have subsided, but the world situation still hampers production. France and Italy have faced severe droughts not seen in more than 60 years; fires have ravaged the West Coast; and the French government regulates how much Champagne can be bottled. All of this affects both the price and availability of alcoholic beverages.

Add in supply-chain issues, says Gallagher, and you have a limited supply of wines and spirits that make their way to Colorado. “We always encourage people to buy more than they think they will need because they tend to celebrate and drink more than they expect.”

He also encourages customers to seek advice about wine purchases from his sommelier, who showcases current favorites at the front of the store. “As Americans, we drink with our eyes,” but a quick chat can save you money and give you a better product than what you might traditionally buy, Gallagher suggests.

Another option is cocktails in cans. “We went from a seltzer craze to a ready-to-drink craze,” Gallagher says. With those drinks, he warns, what you may gain in convenience, you may lose in taste preferences.

Cynthia Pasquale is a Denver writer.

Photo by ibreakstock

Celebration Rye

Ingredients

1 1/2 ounces Locke + Co. Aspen Aged rye whiskey

3/4 ounce St.-Ger main elderflower liqueur

1/4 ounce simple syrup

3/4 ounce fresh lime juice

1 ounce fresh Fuji apple juice 3/4 ounce Champagne

Directions

Add all the ingredients except the Champagne to a shaker and fill with ice.

Shake, and strain into a tumbler filled with fresh ice.

Top with the Champagne and garnish with apple cubes.

Recipe from Locke + Co.

A New Year’s Eve staple, this is the perfect cocktail for all celebratory events, big or small.

Photo courtesy of Steven Cervantes

Photo by Kateryna Hliznitsova on Unsplash

A leveled-up espresso martini.

The Veronica “Espresso Martini”

Ingredients

1 1/4 ounces Locke + Co. Aspen Aged rye whiskey

1 ounce coffee liqueur

Shot of espresso

Espresso beans to garnish

Directions

Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker. Fill halfway with ice, then stir vigorously about a doz en times.

Strain mixture into a martini glass.

Garnish with 3 espresso beans.

Recipe from Veronica Saurett, on-premise account development manager for Connecticut at Brescome Barton Distribution.

Apple CiderHot Toddy

Ingredients

2 ounces Locke + Co. Aspen Aged rye whiskey

4 ounces apple cider

1 teaspoon lemon juice

Directions

2 teaspoons honey

1 cinnamon stick

Combine the apple cider, lemon juice, honey and cinnamon stick in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-low heat, then reduce heat and simmer for about 5 minutes.

Remove from heat, stir in the rye whiskey, and serve imme diately.

Notes: Look for unfiltered apple cider if you can find it. It has a lot more apple-tastic flavor to it!

To make this for a large crowd, use the following measure ments: 1/5 bottle of whiskey, 1/2 gallon of apple cider, 1/4 cup lemon juice, 2/3 cup honey and 4 cinnamon sticks. Makes 16 servings. Keep it simmering on the stove with a ladle and mugs nearby, or pour it into a slow cooker and let cook on high for two hours before serving.

Recipe from Locke + Co.

Photo courtesy of Steven Cervantes

The perfect cozy cocktail.

Photo courtesy of Steven Cervantes

Photo by Inspo on Unsplash

GIFTING 2022and giving

There is no better way to celebrate the hol idays than giving and our 2022 holiday gift guide is filled with gift ideas aplenty. So sit back, relax and let our curated gift guide help ease your holiday gift-giving experience. In the spirit of the season, we also showcase many worthy nonprofits who serve our com munity in so many different ways. Please give generously this holiday season. We wish you a wonderful holiday filled with joy.

By the CE Editorial Team

Holiday Gift Guide

Photo by Olga Zarytska

GIVE THE gift of self-care THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

RELAX, RESTORE, AND REJUVEN A TE a t at STR A T A S P A

Gift cards are available in varying amounts for our unique spa and salon services. Our tranquil and therapeutic experiences are tailored for men, women, and couples. Enjoy our Pink Himalayan salt room, dr y sauna, herbal steam room, or experiential shower s. Tr y a couples massage or an individual acupuncture treatment . We have e verything you need to ring i n the New Year with relaxation.

The Gift of Joy

Denver Art Museum

Treat friends or family to a day at the Denver Art Museum with tickets to see Saints, Sinners, Lovers, and Fools: 300 Years of Flemish Masterwork, currently on view through Jan. 22, 2023. Top it off with a themed gift from The Shop at the museum like tarot cards, a Holy Toast bread stamp or a fantastical 3D flower sculpture. The museum offers a unique assortment of gifts, souvenirs, treasures from local artisans and stocking stuffers. 100 W. 14th Ave. Parkway, Denver, 720-865-5000; dam.org

Central City Opera

For music lovers, a gift certificate to Central City Opera is par amount. Not only will your loved one enjoy special events and their festival orchestra, they also will be supporting a treasured and creative part of Colorado history. 124 Eureka St., Central City, 303-292-6500; centralcityopera.org

Denver Center for the Performing Arts

Give a live-theater experience this holiday at the DCPA, with tickets to A Christmas Carol; Forbidden Broadway: The Next Generation; Little Red—A New Musical!; Mean Girls; Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical; and the immersive Theater of the Mind. Plus, experience Camp Christmas and Mannheim Steamroller Christmas. 1101 13th St., Denver, 303-893-4100; denvercenter.org

Junior League of Denver

The league’s award-winning cookbooks are the perfect holiday gift for any gourmand. The collection includes Colorado Cache, Crème de Colorado, Colorado Collage, Colorado Colore, Colorado Classique and the newest cookbook, Centennial Celebrations, released in 2019. Pro ceeds support the league’s mission to empower women to become civic leaders, as well as its work to disrupt the cycle of systemic poverty for women and families in Denver.

1720 S. Bellaire St., Denver, 303-692-0270; jld.org

The Gift of Luxury

Saks Galleries

Dedicated to bringing fine art to Den ver for more than 50 years, the fam ily-owned Saks Galleries specializes in 19th- to 21st-century American and European oils, bronzes and watercol ors. The gallery acquires collectibles such as silver, art glass, furniture and textiles as well. It features artists of the American West, The Taos Society of Artists, and Native American arts such as textiles, baskets, pottery and jewelry.

3019 E. Second Ave., Denver, 303-333-4144; saksgalleries.com

Canada Goose

“Live In the Open” with the new Canada Goose Marlow coat. Crafted in Ventera, the luxurious smooth fabric offers a softto-the-touch finish, clean lines and tonal branding for effortless sophistication. The adjustable and removable belt creates a customizable fit and versatility to dress up or down. Canada Goose developed the Thermal Experience Index (TEI) to help you find the warmth you want for the experience you seek in each product, the Marlow coat is a TEI 4 (which offers comfort in temperatures as low as -15°F). The Marlow coat is available at canadagoose.com and at the Canada Goose store in Cherry Creek.

3000 E 1st Ave, Unit 2238 Denver; canadagoose.com

Dan Sharp Luxury Outerwear

Although Dan Sharp is your go-to for furs, cash mere, shearling and leather goods, Dan Sharp Luxury Outerwear carries an impressively curated collection of vintage Chanel jewelry and acces sories that are sure to bring her joy this season. 218 Steele St., Denver, 303-333-6666; dansharpluxuryouterwear.com

Bentley Denver

What could be better than a new luxury car with a big red bow, ready to zoom off to the mountains? Bentley’s new Bentayga extended wheelbase range sets new standards in SUV comfort. Powered by a 4.0-liter, V8 engine, this stunning example of a Bentley long wheelbase vehicle combines beautiful proportions with significate legroom and head-turning road presence. Vava vroom!

1480 E. County Line Road, Highlands Ranch, 303-996-7392; bentleydenver.com

GIFT

ILONA

Do anything for 51 years and chances are you’ll become a legend, too! Denver’s iconic Ilona stands among the world’s elite beauty brands, pouring decades of skin-care innovation into new Vaporwear Live Streaming Moisture. Exclusive hydration-transference technology; variable dimension ce ramides and hyaluronan; chlorella; and high-altitude alpine plant stem cells coalesce to deliver an uninterrupted stream of skin-renewing moisture to dry, deprived Colorado skin. 3201 E. Second Ave., Denver, 303-322-3000; Ilona.com

John Atencio

Discover the latest Treasure ring designs by John Atencio this holiday. Blending emerald-cut jewel tones and pavé diamonds with diamond baguettes, Atencio brings his artistry and impeccable craftsmanship to hand-selected tanzanite, rhodolite garnet and brilliant pavé-set diamonds for a timeless statement.

3000 E. First Ave., Suite 181, Denver, 303-830-7733; johnatencio.com

The Gift of Radiance

Trice

The bold, timeless looks of Dilamani designs are celebrated with their diamond confetti rings. Available in 14K black finished gold and 14K yellow gold with playful pops of diamonds, these rings are stunning for any and every occasion.

6885 S. University Blvd., 303-759-9661; tricejewelers.com

Michael Moore | Moore For Life

Every woman wants to be her personal best and Moore For Life staff are experts in helping to achieve a new look that inspires confidence and positivity. Gift a personal ized lesson from top makeup artist Michael Moore, who will share timeless beauty tips and techniques to achieve that ideal look for everyday and special occasions in the New Year.

3035 E. Third Ave., 303-484-1857; mooreforlife.com

Oster Jewelers

Get layered this holiday season with Messika Paris and its iconic Move collection in 18k white, yellow and rose gold. With stylish, innovative jewels incorporating three sliding brilliant cut diamonds, these designs are timeless with a modern touch.

251 Steele St., Denver, 303-572-1111; osterjewelers.com

Faber-Castell

Founded in 1761, family-owned Faber-Castell has been making fine pens for nine generations. Its smoked oak wood Ondoro fountain pen is as handsome as it is func tional. A selection of sought-after Faber-Castell pens is available at HR Meininger, Andrisen Morton and Walters & Hogsett. farbercastell.com

Hygge Life

Playtime isn’t only for kids. Give yourself the time and space to relax and enjoy a swing every once in a while. This indoor wooden swing is a playful and very hyggelig addition to your living room, child’s room or covered porch. Made in Colorado from oak and thick cotton rope for indoor use. 41149 U.S. Highway 6 Avon, 970-331-5745; hyggelife.com

The Gift of Comfort

The Lark

As you walk into The Lark, the scent of fresh pine invites you to explore the treasure trove of home, garden and gift items at this well-established boutique. Bring the smell of Frasier fir home with this elegant candle collection and embrace the holidays all winter long.

1219 E 4th Ave., Denver, 303-744-7464; thelarkdenver.com

Strata Integrated Wellness Spa at Garden of the Gods Resort and Club

Ring in the new year with the gift of self-care at Strata Spa this holiday season. Relax, restore and rejuvenate at this tranquil and therapeutic spa with magnifi cent mountain views and breathtaking open spaces. Gift cards are available in varying amounts for unique spa and salon services.

3320 Mesa Road, Colorado Springs, 719-520-4988; gardenofthegodsresort.com

Monarch Casino Resort Spa

Give an unforgettable retreat complete with award-winning, upscale dining; world-class spa treatments; and luxurious hotel rooms appointed with amenities designed for relax ation. Monarch Casino Resort Spa offers five gorgeous experiential spa rooms such as the Brine Inhalation Light-Therapy Lounge and the mountain stone bath and ice fountain. You will feel revived and refreshed at first “aaah.” Top off the experience with exquisite dining at on-site restaurants such as Bistro Mariposa and The Monarch Chophouse. Perfection, complete with stunning views!

488 Main St., Black Hawk, 303-582-1000; monarchblackhawk.com

MoVET

Treat your four-legged family members to an elevated vet experience with ame nities galore. MoVET is a local, wom en-owned veterinary clinic offering pri mary care services in their well-equipped clinic, or keep your pets relaxed and have them come to you. Come for an appointment, stay for the amenities! Their vet and pet-approved boutique is filled with exclusively curated goodies to pamper your furry friends.

4912 S. Newport St., 720-507-7387, movetcare.com

The Sweetest Bean

Enhance your kitchen with gourmet vanilla from The Sweetest Bean. Not only is this the purest, most delicious vanilla, but buying from this pur pose-driven company also creates a sustainable economy for Ugandans to help overcome oppression. The Colorado women behind the oper ation are committed to this single supplier and the families employed there. And lucky for us, we get to enjoy the fruits of their labors and do some good at the same time. thesweetestbean.com

The Perfect Gift

The Bookies Bookstore

The gift of reading is giving someone permission to take the time to snuggle up and be transported through pages of timeless stories. It’s an expression of love and care that kids and adults will both treasure. The staff at The Bookies is sure to help you find the perfect book.

4315 E. Mississippi Ave., Denver, 303-759-1117; thebookies.com

Little Bird

For the littles on your list, you’re sure to find toys, clothes and ac cessories to wow at Little Bird in Park Hill. Think cozy Lila Hayes PJs; whimsical dresses from Pink Chicken; matching Me and Henry shirts; classic looks from Florence Eiseman and The Beaufort Bonnet Company; and so much more! And don’t forget to book a holiday cut for your kids at the newly appointed Hair Studio for a one-stop shop for all things mini.

2200 Kearney St., Denver, 720-266-0641; littlebirddenver.com

White Peacock

Holidays are an enchanting time at Cherry Creek North, and White Peacock is filled with inspiration, unique gifts and home furnish ings from around the world. All are carefully curated to provide a diverse, beautiful variety to your home. We love the glow from these handcrafted menorahs from Michael Aram with a palm tree design. Use it for traditional celebrations or even as year-round decor.

2440 E. Third Ave., 303-954-8333; whitepeacockdenver.com

Tis the Season to Spread

Holidays for Kids Event

Each December, Amp the Cause brings joy to local children living below the poverty line through its annual Holidays for Kids event. The children have a magical experience complete with arts and crafts, face painting, a visit from Santa, lunch, and a backpack full of books and toys.

Help us bring joy to children that otherwise wouldn’t be able experience Christmas by donating to Amp the Cause. Donate at ampthecause.org

Amp

The HolidayPerfectGift

Our six award-winning cookbooks are available for purchase at a variety of local and national book retailers. Visit our website for the most current list. Proceeds from sales support our efforts to promote voluntarism, develop the potential of women and improve our Denver community. Learn more at JLD.org

Pesto Cheesecake

SERVES 18 TO 20

1 tablespoon butter, softened

cup fine dry bread crumbs

½ cup plus 2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese, divided 16 ounces cream cheese, softened

1 cup ricotta cheese

¼ teaspoon salt

teaspoon cayenne pepper 3 eggs ½ cup pesto ⅓ cup pine nuts

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees. Grease the bottom and side of a 9-inch springform pan with the butter. Coat with a mixture of the bread crumbs and 2 tablespoons of the Parmesan cheese.

Beat the remaining ½ cup Parmesan cheese, cream cheese, ricotta cheese, salt and cayenne pepper in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Spoon half the mixture into a medium bowl. Stir in the pesto. Spoon into the prepared pan, smoothing the top. Spoon the remaining cream cheese mixture carefully over the pesto mixture, smoothing the top. Sprinkle with the pine nuts or arrange the pine nuts in a spiral pattern over the top.

Bake for 45 to 60 minutes or until the center is set. Remove to a wire rack. Let stand to cool completely. Chill, tightly covered with plastic wrap, for 8 to 12 hours. Run a small sharp knife around the outside of the cheesecake and remove the side of the pan. Place the cheesecake on a platter. Garnish the top with fresh basil leaves. Serve with crackers.

A membership to the Children’s Museum makes the best gift…

give more j y

Join today at mychildsmuseum.org, and then purchase a membership for all the families you love!

The greatest impact. For the greater good.

150 YEARS OF IMPROVING THE LIVES OF ANYONE IN NEED BY PROVIDING VITAL PROGRAMS AND SERVICES.

When the most vulnerable in our community need assistance, your support helps provide the life-changing care they need to achieve long-term stability.

PHOTOS BY AMANDA TIPTON

GIVE THE

ANIMAL’S LIFE CHANGE AN

Colorado Pet Pantry is a statewide pet food bank that supports dogs and cats when financial times are tight. Our goal is for pets to stay in their loving homes with the people who have devoted their lives to their pets’ wellbeing. Colorado Pet Pantry hosts 102 monthly pet food banks and helps 100+ animal rescues with food and supplies. In the past 12 months, we served 6 million meals! Five dollars feeds a pet for a month thanks to our pet food donors, partnerships and volunteers.

Donate: coloradogives.org/pet

RezDawg Rescue is a nonprofit animal welfare organization providing animal welfare services for dogs and cats residing on and around Tribal lands throughout Colorado, New Mexico and Arizona. Our services include: providing animal rescue, rehoming, rehabilitation, mobile vet and a pet food pantry for the most underserved communities in the Four Corners. Since 2012, we have supported the transformation of over 15,000 dogs and cats thanks to supporters like YOU!

Donate: coloradogives.org/Rezdawgrescue

Would you think 8,000 dogs and cats could be spayed/neutered/vaccinated/micro-chipped in monthly visits to under-resourced rural areas of Colorado in just three years?

Would you think it could be done from a mobile clinic?

We do it!

Bergen Spay and Neuter Alliance. Serving rural Colorado with love and altitude.

Donate: coloradogives.org/BergenSpayandNeuterAlliance

We believe that every pet should be a wanted pet. SpayToday’s mission is to reduce unplanned and unwanted litters, resulting in pet neglect, potential abuse, overpopulation and animal homelessness. Since 2009, our Spay It Forward program has provided lifesaving services for over 80,000 animals. By easing the burden of financial constraints, we help pets stay safely at home. Your gift will change the life of a pet in need AND the people who love them.

Donate: coloradogives.org/SpayToday

Demi’s Animal Rescue focuses on solving pet homelessness through adoption, spay/neuter and pet retention. Our newly opened Thrift Store & Cat Lodge has expanded our abilities to support the most in-need animals, providing high quality items for sale to the public with sales supporting the rescue. The Lodge provides a safe space and visibility for at-risk cats including bonded pairs, FIV+, owner surrenders, seniors and under-socialized cats.

Donate: coloradogives.org/DemisAnimalRescue

PawsCo is a foster-based animal rescue that changes lives through our passion and commitment to animal welfare in Colorado. PawsCo partners with shelters and rescues throughout the state to provide a safety net to animals that will have the best chances for adoption after spending time in a home environment. Our operating model enables us to fill a gap in the rescue community, and further position Colorado as a role model in animal welfare.

Donate: coloradogives.org/PawsCo

W.O.L.F. provides life-long sanctuary of up to 30 captive-born wolves and wolf dogs; and assists with the placement of hundreds of other animals through a nationwide network of sanctuaries, rescues and qualified private owners. They are often neglected, abused and abandoned, with ~ 200,000 animals sold as pets each year and up to 95% euthanized by the age of 2 because they are purchased by owners who aren’t equipped to care for them. Please support our mission; sanctuary, rescue and education.

Donate: coloradogives.org/wolf

GIVE WHERE YOU LIVE

By Lisa Buscietta

Colorado

Gives Day has grown to be come Colorado’s largest 24-hour giv ing event, raising more than $362 million for Colorado since it began in 2010. Each December, Coloradans come together with the common goal to strengthen the commu nity by helping to power local nonprofits. Com munity First Foundation and FirstBank partner to make this day rewarding for givers, nonprofits and the community as a whole. Although every nonprofit participating in Colorado Gives Day is worthy of support, we’ve put together a list of some that stand out this year. No matter which organizations you choose to support, remember that early giving begins on Nov. 1, and mark your calendar for the main event on Dec. 6.

Colorado Pet Pantry

This organization provides food for Colorado pets that may be at risk of being taken to a shelter by a family no longer able to afford food and care. Every dollar donated is worth $5 in pet food as well as the satisfaction of knowing that the pet is kept in its loving home and not sent to a shelter. CPP now has more than 100 pet food banks statewide as well as an Emergency Pet Food Assistance Program and the Animal Welfare Share Program. Send your donation on Colorado Gives Day so people don’t have to choose between food for their children or food for their beloved pet. coloradopetpantry.org | 720-441-3111

Denver Rescue Mission

The Denver Rescue Mission feeds hungry men, women and children, provides shelter for people experiencing homelessness, and changes lives through long-term programs. Last year, the mission provided more than 1 million meals and 351,471 nights of shelter. Its year-long New Life program graduated 80 men last year and helped hundreds of families with housing and other services. Its goal is to help lift people out of homelessness as they work toward self-sufficiency. The mission is grateful for the community support that for the past 130 years has helped it to restore families, bring hope to the hopeless and changes lives.

denverrescuemission.org | 303-297-1815

Denver Zoo

Denver Zoo is dedicated to providing the communities it serves with an inspiring and informative firsthand en counter with the wonders of nature. The 84-acre campus is home to more than 3,000 wild animals, which serve as ambassadors for their wild counterparts all over the world, as well as education and outreach teams that spark curiosity for learners of all ages. Denver Zoo has more than 3,600 mouths (and beaks) to feed! A full-time animal nutritionist designs specific diets for each species and, in some cases, individual animals. The commissary orders the highest-quality fruits, vegetables, meat, seafood and supplements. The animal care team includes 10 veterinary team members, 79 keepers and 12 animal curators and supervisors who provide state-of-the-art care to the animals. As a nonprofit organization, Denver Zoo relies on your support through memberships, visits and donations. denverzoo.org | 720-337-1400

Freedom Service Dogs

Freedom Service Dogs (FSD) transforms lives by part nering people with custom-trained assistance dogs. Since 1987, this Denver-based nonprofit has provided more than 550 highly skilled service dogs to clients through out the country—including veterans with PTSD or combat-related injuries, children with autism or other neurocognitive disorders, and people with physical disabilities—completely free of charge. The dogs assist with daily tasks, such as opening doors and retrieving items, in addition to interrupting repetitive behaviors for children with autism and creating space around veterans to reduce their anxiety in crowds. Want to help transform lives? FSD urgently needs volunteer puppy-raisers to help raise and train service-dog hopefuls, as well as volunteers to work in the nursery or foster adult dogs on weekends. Also appreciated are one-time and monthly donations, items on FSD’s Amazon Wish List, and planned gifts of all kinds.

freedomservicedogs.org | 303-922-6231

Junior League of Denver

Founded in 1918, the Junior League of Denver is a women’s training organization that has for more than a century empowered women to become civic leaders and impactful community volunteers. Having helped to start countless organizations and programs in Denver, the league is currently working to disrupt the cycle of systemic poverty for women and families throughout the metro area. In 2021-22, volunteers contributed more than 3,000 hours to the community, served nearly 10,000 children and adults, distributed 5,000 books, served almost 3,500 meals, and granted $25,000 to area nonprofits. The league hosts sig nature community programs, partners with fellow nonprofits, and advocates on behalf of women and families at the Capitol. Your donation will help the Junior League continue in its important efforts. jld.org | 303-692-0270

For the Cure

Children’s Diabetes Foundation

Established in 1977 by Barbara and Marvin Davis, the Children’s Diabetes Foundation serves as the fundraising and education arm of the Barbara Davis Center for Diabetes. The center, located on the Anschutz Medical Campus in Aurora, is one of the largest research centers in the world, specializing in Type 1 diabetes research and care for more than 7,600 children and adults. Among those, more than 40% are uninsured or underinsured. “With your help,” says executive director Dana Davis, “we can help keep patients healthy and one day find a cure.” Davis adds that the foundation’s holiday wish list includes monetary donations that will be used to fund critical patient programs and for gift cards from local businesses to bestow upon food-insecure patient families. The extreme cost of supplies and insulin takes a heavy toll on families affected by Type 1 diabetes. Donate to families in need so they don’t have to choose between buying life-saving insulin or being able to buy groceries or afford their rent.

childrensdiabetesfoundation.org | 303-863-1200

For the Kids

A Precious Child

For 14 years, A Precious Child has helped more than 405,000 children challenged by poverty, abuse, neglect or crisis situations. Serving eight counties surrounding the Denver metro area by offering basic essentials, opportunities and resources through its five Cradle-to-Career Initiatives, A Precious Child helps break the cycle of poverty. Families working with the organization have reported a significant decrease in stress and improved quality of family life while children report improved mental health and a higher level of confidence. A Precious Child envisions a future where every child grows up to be a secure, self-reliant, contributing member of the community.

apreciouschild.org | 303-466-4272

National Jewish Health

For 123 years, National Jewish Health (NJH) has been at the forefront of research and medical care focused on lung, heart, immune system and related diseases. And, while many of the critical challenges of COVID-19 are easing, NJH doctors and researchers continue to care for kids and adults with long-COVID symptoms and to search for answers. Finding help and cures for many serious illnesses and bringing care to those in need now and in the future are cornerstones of the work done at National Jewish Health. Sup port from the community is key in continuing life-changing research and in supporting key programs such as at the Morgridge Academy, a school on the NJH campus that is unique for children with chronic illnesses. njhealth.org | 1-877-225-5654

AMP the Cause

Amp the Cause was founded by Christie and Walter Isenberg in 2004 with the mission to support Colorado’s children and families. Historically, it has most effectively done so by financially supporting metro Denver nonprofits that directly serve these populations. Since its inception, Amp the Cause has given back more than $11 million and continues to be dedicated to improving the lives of children and families in Colorado. The organization thrives on the belief that we can do great things when we partner and come together, amplifying the impact of serving the community. Annual events and programs include Holidays for Kids, Community Day, Denver Day of Rock and Fill the Void: Amp the Cause to End Hunger, the newest addition to the organization that helps alleviate hunger by providing $250 grocery gift cards to the most vulnerable and negatively impacted families suffering from hunger and food insecurity.

ampthecause.org | 303-605-2885

For the Kids

Children’s Museum of Denver

Colorado Feeding Kids

The Children’s Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus is a gathering place where all families in the Denver community are invited to share moments of wonder and joy. Its employees believe in kid-powered learning, and work hard every day to open doors for Colorado’s future leaders, innovators and adventurers to create, explore and discover—on their own terms. The muse um first opened in 1973 and has grown into a 9-acre campus with wholly unique exhibits including sky high climbers, a Teaching Kitchen, many STEM-based activities, a multimedia Art Studio and so much more. The Children’s Museum focuses on experiences for children up to 8 years old but encourages guests of all ages to release their inner child. The museum’s annual Birthday Bash gala takes place each September. In 2023, it is celebrating 50 years of service!

mychildsmuseum.org | 303-561-0110

Invest in Kids

Invest in Kids (IIK) works to ensure that every Colorado child has a strong start in life. Serving more than 14,000 children and families through its three evidence-based programs—Nurse-Fam ily Partnership, The Incredible Years and Child First—IIK helps improve the health and well-be ing of young children experiencing poverty in all 64 Colorado counties. IIK raises funds to support its three programs and the nurses, teachers and social workers who work alongside families ev ery day. Looking ahead to 2023, IIK is enlisting sponsors and participants for its 24th annual Jane-A-Thon ski-a-thon set for March 3-4 at Mary Jane Mountain in Winter Park. iik.org | 303-839-1808

For 14 years, Colorado Feeding Kids has been providing easy-to-prepare, vitamin-fortified meals and family meal boxes to local food pantries, school weekend backpack programs, churches and seniors in need. To date, it has produced and distributed more than 7.1 million meals to the hungry. All meals are packaged by volunteers at the Englewood warehouse. Colorado Feeding Kids also has provided meals to those affected by natural disasters, including victims in Houston after Hurricane Harvey, in Puerto Rico after Hurricane Maria, and to Colorado firefighters battling wildfires. Every bag of food can feed a family of six. Colorado Feeding Kids is an all-volunteer 501(c)(3) organization that receives no government funding, relying solely on donations and volunteers.

cofeedingkids.org | 720-560-2354

Roundup River Ranch

Roundup River Ranch enriches the lives of children with serious illnesses and their families by offering free, medically supported camp programs that provide opportunities to discover joy, friend ships and confidence. Annually, thousands of children coping with cancer, blood disorders, organ transplants and other serious conditions benefit from Roundup River Ranch’s intentional and empowering year-round camp programs. Located 2½ hours from Denver near Gypsum, along the Colorado River, Roundup River Ranch is proud to be a member of the SeriousFun Chil dren’s Network, founded by actor Paul Newman. Special events planned for 2023 include the A Taste of Camp gala to be held in May in downtown Denver. Colorado residents who contribute to Roundup River Ranch may be eligible to receive up to a 50% state income tax credit through the Colorado Child Care Tax Credit. roundupriverranch.org | 970-524-2267

Transforming Lives

Jewish Family Service of Colorado

Volunteers of America

Jewish Family Service is a nonprofit human-services organization that serves anyone in need, regardless of their circumstances or religious beliefs. Founded 150 years ago, JFS currently offers more than 30 programs and services, including food security, housing stability, mental health counseling, aging care, employment support and disability services. JFS takes a holistic approach, assessing the various needs of the individual or family, and provides the appropriate services all from one organization. Its staff continuously evaluates the evolving challenges of our community and adapts or develops programs that respond to the resulting needs. This season, the most needed gifts are monetary donations to purchase food, support refugee resettle ment services, and provide life-changing programs to those who need them most.

jewishfamilyservice.org | 303-597-5000

We Don’t Waste

When Arlan Preblud started We Don’t Waste out of the back of his Volvo in 2009, it was with the belief that excess food should go to people, not landfills. The organization has now grown to become the largest recovery-focused organization in Colorado. As of 2022, We Don’t Waste has recovered and distributed more than 165 million servings of quality food, equal to more than 61 million meals, to food-insecure commu nity members—while also diverting roughly 41 million pounds of food from landfills. A variety of impactful volunteer opportunities are available each week. Fundraisers in 2023 will include the annual Fill a Plate for Hunger event and Canstruction. wedontwaste.org | 720-443-6113

Volunteers of America (VOA) Colorado is a faith-based or ganization dedicated to helping those in need transform their lives. VOA Colorado has more than 50 programs statewide that provide emergency shelter, housing and food to nearly 100,000 state residents in need. The nonprofit distributes 1,500 food baskets each Thanksgiving and Christmas to individuals and families facing food insecurity, providing over 18,000 meals during the holiday season. In 2021, VOA Colorado provided meals and nourishment for nearly 72,000 individuals and housed more than 9,000 individuals while providing wraparound supportive services where needed. The organization supports diverse populations, including families, children, veterans and older adults. VOA Colorado is thrilled to celebrate and host the 30th year of its signature fundraiser, Western Fantasy, which will take place in the fall of 2023.

voacolorado.org | 303-297-0408

Global Down SyndromeFoundation

The Global Down Syndrome Foundation (GLOBAL) is a public nonprofit 501(c)(3) dedicated to significantly improving the lives of people with Down syndrome through research, medical care, education and advocacy. Established in 2009, GLOBAL is the largest nonprofit in the U.S. working daily to improve the lives of people with Down syndrome and their families. GLOBAL is part of a network of affiliates that includes the Linda Crnic In stitute for Down Syndrome, the Anna and John J. Sie Center for Down Syndrome at Children’s Hospital Colorado, and the CU Alzheimer’s and Cognition Center—all on the Anschutz Medical Campus. GLOBAL’s signature fundraiser, the Be Beautiful Be Yourself Fashion Show, will be held on Saturday, Nov. 12. To find out more and purchase tickets, please visit bebeatifulbeyourself.org. globaldownsyndrome.org | 303-321-6277

For the Arts

Central City Opera

Founded in 1932, Central City Opera is the fifth-oldest professional opera company and the oldest performing arts organization in Colorado. Donations to Central City Opera support world-class opera and musical theater productions, a young artist training program, and education and community engagement activities. The annual summer festival takes place in the historic Colorado mountain town of Central City, only 35 miles west of Denver, where the company owns and maintains 27 Victorian-era properties, including the intimate 550-seat jewel box opera house built in 1878. Help us keep the music playing.

centralcityopera.org | 303-292-6500

Denver Center for the Performing Arts

Founded in 1972, the Denver Center for the Per forming Arts produces and presents the best in live theater through Broadway tours, Tony-winning plays, immersive experiences, theater for young audiences and intimate cabaret. Plus, it inspires students of all ages and welcomes locals through community-focused programs and once-in-a-lifetime events. As one of the nation’s largest nonprofit theater organizations, the DCPA engages and inspires through the transformative power of live theater. This mission is made possible by ticket sales, sponsorships, donations and local support of the Scientific and Cultural Facilities District.

denvercenter.org | 303-893-4100

Opera Colorado

Founded in 1981, Opera Colorado celebrates its 40th year of bringing world-class opera to the Centennial State with the 2022-23 season. In addition to its main stage performances at the Ellie Caulkins Opera House each season, Opera Colorado makes a commitment to the future of the art form by exploring in-person and digital initiatives with its nationally recognized artist-in-residence program that trains the next generation of opera performers. Each year, Opera Colorado reaches thousands of students and adults through statewide education and community programs.

operacolorado.org | 303-778-1500

Because It Matters

Kiwanis Club of Southeast Metro Denver

For over 100 years, Kiwanis International Clubs have been im proving the world one child and one community at a time. The Kiwanis Club of Southeast Metro Denver’s (SEMD) signature project is supporting the prevention of youth suicide in Colorado. Pediatric mental health was recently declared a crisis by leadership at Children’s Hospital Colorado, and though the rates have recently remained steady, around 100 children and teens have died by suicide each year in Colorado since 2017. This past year, Kiwanis SEMD hosted the Pints & Pinots for Youth Suicide Prevention fundraiser, which raised over $20,000 for Second Wind Fund, a local organization that provides no-cost mental health treatment to Colorado youth at risk of suicide. Other nonprofit organizations supported by Kiwanis SEMD include Colorado Feeding Kids, Clothes to Kids of Denver, Shiloh House and Welby Elementary School. kiwanissemd.org | 303-263-0333

Judi’s House

Judi’s House was founded on the belief that all bereaved children and families should have access to effective and compassionate care. Former NFL quarterback Brian Griese was just 12 years old when his mother, Judi, died from breast cancer. Brian and his wife, Brook Griese, PhD, a clinical child psychologist specializing in trauma and loss, founded Judi’s House in her memory. This year marks the 20th anniversary of working toward their mission to help children and families who are grieving a death find con nection and healing. The organization’s research arm, JAG Institute, furthers this mission through comprehensive research and training initiatives. All services, provided by skilled and licensed staff members, are offered at no cost to families and bereavement partners. Judi’s House is now operating in a new, purpose-built home, created by and for the community, at the crossroads of Aurora and Denver just east of the Stanley Marketplace. judishouse.org | 720-941-0331

Warren Village

Warren Village is a nationally recognized leader for moving people from poverty toward self-sufficiency. It assists low-income, single-parent families so that they can achieve sustainable personal and economic self-sufficiency. As the cost of living in the Denver area continues to rise at an alarming rate, thousands of hard-working families are finding themselves unable to secure safe and affordable housing. Warren Village, in partnership with the Denver Housing Authority and the city and county of Denver, is stepping up to offer solutions. Since 1974, Warren Village’s housing program has helped more than 8,000 single parents and children. warrenvillage.org | 303-321-2345

Urban Peak

Urban Peak ignites the potential in youth to exit home lessness and create self-determined, fulfilled lives. Urban Peak is the only organization in the Denver area providing a full convergence of services solely focused on one of the most vulnerable populations in our community: youth ages 15 through 24 who are experiencing homelessness. The challenges these young people face are hard to imagine. They have little experience living independently prior to homelessness and are often developmentally unprepared to find stability without supportive adults or safe and caring connections. Urban Peak puts these youth on a path toward self-sufficiency and success. In 2021, Urban Peak served nearly 1,000 youth through its programs, including street outreach, a drop-in center, shelter, housing, support services and case management. Urban Peak relies on the support of generous individuals and organizations to continue this critical work.

urbanpeak.org | 303-974-2900

part of

meeting new

who have similar situations as

Are Built Here

committed to empowering low-income, single-parent families living in Denver. Will you join us?

For almost 50 years, Warren Village has provided low-income single-parent families with the space and resources to achieve economic mobility and navigate and disrupt systems of poverty. Families have access to our comprehensive Two-Genera�on (2Gen) approach including affordable housing, workforce development, college a�ainment support, and an early educa�on and child care center all in one loca�on.

Join us at WarrenVillage.org.

Remember us this Colorado Gives Day on December 6, 2022.

Warren Village resident Rachel and her daughter Exoucia

Life Today Change a

Feeding Kids is a non-profit organization whose mission is to provide fully nutritious food to impoverished children in Colorado and around the world. ALL of our meals are FREE of charge and given to local food banks and schools. We have packed and given away 8,793,328 meals to the hungry since 2007. We give our meals to Colorado food banks, churches, and school backpack programs here in Colorado. We have also given meals for disaster relief to Colorado fire fighters, to Houston after

Harvey and Puerto Rico after Hurricane Maria.

walking throughGrief

together

According to our 2022 Childhood Bereavement Estimation Model report, 89,000 Colorado children will experience the death of a parent or sibling by age 18 - an increase of 5,000 children compared to 2021 data.

® ®

Judi’s House/JAG Institute provides free grief care to children and caregivers in Metro Denver and strives to meet the rise in childhood bereavement. In August we moved from two cramped Victorian homes to a purpose-built space that removes barriers to care and enables us to enhance Comprehensive Grief Care in the areas of direct service, training and education, and evaluation and research.

You can make a difference in the lives of children and families in your community by supporting our vision that no child should be alone in grief.

Make a lasting impact at judishouse.org/get-involved.

We partner with communities across Colorado to improve the health and well being of our youngest Coloradans. Through our three programs, Nurse-Family Partnership®, The Incredible Years®, and Child First®. Invest in Kids serves more than 14,000 children and families each year. Join us!

Central CityOpera

Meet the Guild

By Lisa Buscietta

The Central City Opera Guild is devoted to support ing Central City Opera, a true Colorado treasure. The guild was established in 1974, and those pioneering women created L’Esprit de Noël as their signature fundraising event.

This popular holiday home tour was created to inspire and delight, as well as support the guild’s most worthy programs. Proceeds from L’Esprit de Noël ticket sales benefit Central City Opera’s many community and educational programs, including its annual Summer Festival, which takes place each year in the historic Central City Opera House. This annual fundraiser also supports the historic preservation and care of the Opera House and 27 other vintage properties in Central City and Black Hawk under the stewardship of the guild as well as the Bonfils-Stanton Foundation Artists Training Program.

Photos courtesy of Amanda Tipton Photography

L’Esprit de Noël

2022 Holiday Home Tour

The 46th edition of this popular holiday event will take place on Friday, Nov. 18, and Saturday, Nov. 19, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The much-anticipated holiday boutique returns this year and will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Nov. 19 only. This year’s tour will showcase five beautiful homes in the Glenmoor Country Club neighborhood. Each home will be decorated for the holi days by some of the metro area’s most accomplished florists and table designers. Returning designers this year include T is for Table, Plum Sage Flowers, White Peacock and Birdsall, which join new designers from KaraKara Flowers, Enjoue Studio and The Fresh Flower Market.

A lunch option in the Glenmoor Country Club dining room will be available on a first-come, first-served basis for an addi tional $50 on Saturday, Nov. 19, only. There will be two lunch seatings, one at 11:30 a.m. and a second at 1:30 p.m. Purchase tickets online at lesprithometour.com/buy-tickets

PERSONAL TOUCHES

So shiny, bright and festive, these sparkling beauties will likely be displayed year after year to create a Christmas from the heart.

By Hillary Locke Mujica

Vintage Ornament Trees

Cover plastic foam cones (try 10-, 12- and 15-inch cones) with ornaments, attaching them with hot glue. Start with larger ornaments at the bottom, transitioning to smaller ones as you work your way up. Fill in any gaps with mini ornament balls. Deco rate the finished trees with vintage tinsel, ribbons or beaded garland.

If you’d rather leave the design to the pros, Glitter moon Vintage Christmas (glittermoonvintagexmas. com) has a dazzling array of whimsical tabletop trees, centerpieces and wreaths, all made from cu rated collection of vintage holiday ornaments. These works of art are what childhood dreams are made of.

Vintage Candlesticks

Hot-glue ornaments in assorted sizes to silver or glass candlesticks. Fill in any gaps with mini ornament balls.

Chinoiserie Plate Wreath

This is a great project for displaying random mis matched small plates, butter plates, tea cups and shallow bowls without damaging them. You can hang these wreaths on doors, cabinets, walls or place them on bookcases—anywhere that doesn’t get a lot of movement, to avoid possible breakage. The wreath can get heavy, so keep this in mind as you create your design.

Vail Valley Autumn. Oil on Russian birch.

Photo Credit

A one-of-a-kind tabletop tree by Glittermoon Vintage Christmas. Made with recycled ornaments of yesteryear, their holiday trees are sure to get you in the holiday spirit. glittermoonvintagexmas.com

Photo courtesy of Cackie Trippe McCarty, Glittermoon Production LLC

3

Chinoiserie Plate Wreath

What You’ll Need

An assortment of coordinating plates between 5 inches and 10 inches in diameter (salad, dessert and butter plates work best) and, if desired, tea cups, spoons and whatever else strikes your fancy.

One 14-inch foam wreath (ex truded or Styrofoam)

One 14-inch wire wreath

Small wire plate holders 30-gauge floral wire and wire cutters

Instructions

Cover foam wreath with sheet moss using the floral pins to se cure. You can hot-glue the moss in place, concentrating on covering just the outside and inside edges of the ring; the back and top will not show once completed and hung.

Attach faux or fresh greenery to the outside of the moss-covered wreath using floral pins or by stick ing stems into the foam. On the pink wreath, you can cut two old faux floral wreaths so you can lay them around the foam circle. Lay the moss-covered wreath aside.

Arrange plates on the wire wreath to get a feel for the placement and the number needed. Attach a wire plate hanger to each plate and or bowl. Attach a 30-inch piece of floral wire to the wire plate hanger and then wire the plate to the wire wreath.

Working one at a time from the back side of the plate (upside down), continue adding plates to the wire wreath, overlapping them slightly. You will use the long wire ends to attach the plate wreath to the foam wreath later, so leave the long wire ends attached.

Coordinating decorative wired ribbon—about 4 yards if you are making a bow, 1 yard if only using ribbon to hang Sheet moss

Floral pins

Faux or real greenery

Small Velcro or other type of hanging strips (such as 3M Command brand) for attaching butter plates and tea cups

Hot-glue gun (optional)

Once all the large plates are in place, wire the plate wreath on top of the moss-covered foam wreath using the long wire ends, twisting to secure. Trim access wire once secured. Turn the wreath over and fluff greenery, adding more where needed.

Wrap ribbon around both wreaths as a hanger and glue or tie a knot to secure the two cut ends. If you like, make and attach it with wire.

To attach the smaller plates, use four layers of Velcro Command strips. Because the backs of the plates are not flat, you will need to build up the strips so the smaller plates sit flat on the larger plates.

Position the smaller plates be tween the larger plates to cover up the wire holders. Place a small plate over the top of the hook of the wire hangers.

Add teacups, spoons, tongs, etc. at this point. If desired, finish with a ribbon bow.

Hang, and let the oohs and ahhs pour in!

Vintage chinoiserie plates from @tortoiseandharevintage used to make an elegant holiday statement.

Photo courtesy of Tortoise & Hare Vintage

THE MUST-HAVE WINTER ACCESSORY,

ON AND OFF THE MOUNTAIN

By Hillary Locke Mujica

Brad Peterson, skiing the fall line at Aspen Highlands in his Pike Astis mittens.

Inthe age of carbon-fiber skis, helmets and goggles with built-in video cameras, and more technological advancements than one can count, Astis mittens are indeed celebrities. Everyone wants to get a look, a feel, and ooh and aah at the marvelous mittens whenever they are spotted on the slopes.

Astis co-founder Brad Peterson says the mit tens sell out every season to novice and expert skiers and snowboarders alike. “I fell in love with a pair of mittens a friend gave me that

I skied with for 12 years,” Peterson says, “but my sister’s dog decided they’d be a good chew toy and I was devastated. I couldn’t find any thing that matched the quality, the comfort, the uniqueness and the functionality of those original mittens, so I knew I had to find a way to make them myself.”

Peterson worked tirelessly to capture the beauty and integrity of the beadwork, leather craftsmanship and functionality of his original pair and, after countless prototypes, Astis was born. Each pair is handcrafted

using natural materials combined with today’s technology for a mitten that keeps you warm, dry and looking show-stopping good.

To keep your hands dry and warm in the wettest and coldest of conditions, silicone is injected into the leather during the tanning process, which dramatically increases weath erproofing. Additionally, each mitten is lined with dry-wicking Polartec Thermal Pro High Loft, and the longer length helps keep you insulated.

All photos courtesy of Astis

Instead of adding to landfills, all leather and fur used to create these wearable pieces of art are by-products of the food industry. New this season: a featherweight line made of deerskin and lightweight Polartec that is available in gray as well as the standard tan, black and brown leathers. “We’re really excited about this line,” Peterson says. “The designs offer all the intricate beading and fur, but being lighter weight, they’re the perfect gloves and mittens for everyday use.”

Each year, Astis provides three full-ride scholar ships to the American Indian College Fund. The AICF is the nation’s largest Native-run charity supporting access to higher education for Native American students and tribal colleges and uni versities. The company also supports programs for institutional growth, sustainability and cul

tural preservation. “Every pair of Astis mittens purchased helps benefit the fund,” Peterson says.

Having relocated his headquarters from Cali fornia to Minturn, Peterson has now partnered with former Italian alpine skier and World Cup champion Marco Tonazzi, who owns the stylish Valbruna boutique in Vail, the Minturn Inn, Hotel Minturn and Mangiare Italian Market.

“Tonazzi’s personal and professional knowl edge and experience are key for the growth of Astis,” Peterson says. Partnerships with other like-minded brands offering custom Astis mittens such as Sundance, Icelandic Skis, Yel lowstone Club and Teton Gravity Research, the dream team of Peterson and Tonazzi is sure to elicit three cheers for mittens for years to come.

Astis astis.com

Left: Sporting Astis mittens around town.

Bellow: Selous, Caillie and Couzy Astis Mittens.

By Hillary Locke Mujica

Everyyear, Christmas markets come to life throughout Europe, but those throughout France’s Alsace region are truly magical, like a portal taking you to a place where goodwill and wassail seem to pour over everyone in sight. Each town hosts a unique market with treasures you can only get then and there. The narrow cobblestone streets are filled with the aromas of delicious treats, treasure troves of one-of-a-kind gifts, local merriment and gingerbread-like décor that will reinstate your belief in Old Saint Nick.

From the north to the south of Alsace, holiday cheer can be found around every corner. Of course, you have to hit the must-sees, but don’t forget to head off the beaten path and discover local events and sites to immerse yourself in the Christmas spirit. Celebrating the holidays in France is an experience filled with wonder and a chance to let your inner child feel alive.

Photo courtesy of Château Vaux-le-Vicomte

The entrance to Château Vaux-le-Vicomte lined with holiday lights welcoming all to celebrate the season.

One of the hundreds of trees elegantly decorated at Château Vaux-le-Vicomte in France.

WHERE TO GO

Strasbourg is the capital of Christmas in France, home to one of the oldest Yuletide markets in the world. It is the place to go if you love Christmas and a magical holiday atmosphere. Not far from Strasbourg is the lovely, historic city of Col mar. Fairy-tale pretty, it positively sparkles at Christmas. The northern French city of Lille is a gastronomic delight and a shopper’s paradise. The fabulous architecture, narrow winding streets and incredible museums and art venues here make this one of the best places for a spot of Christmas shopping in Europe.

Nestled between the foothills of the Vosges and the vineyards is the little medieval town of Kaysersberg, which hosts one of France’s most authentically charming Christmas markets.

The little town of Le Touquet on the Opal Coast of northern France in Pas-de-Calais is stylish and dazzling at Christmas. Thousands of twinkling lights, Parisian-style shops and a sensational photo op spot—the bandstand in the park—are among the delights.

Irresistible, jaw-droppingly lovely Riquewihr is a special place all year round but, during the holidays, its streets are lit up and it’s a truly captivating little town. There are special shops dedicated to Christmas, fabulous restaurants and exquisite architecture everywhere you turn.

If it’s the glam you’re after, it doesn’t get much more opulent than Reims at Christmastime. This is a town that knows how to put on a show and then toast it with local champagne. Santé!

Many châteaux in France dress up for Christmas, but one of the best is the gorgeous Château Vaux-le-Vicomte (about an hour’s drive from the center of Paris). Cue the elegant decora tions, a carousel on the grounds and candlelight evenings—the effect is sublime and stunning.

The medieval city of Colmar in its Christmas best.

Photo by elitravo

Photo courtesy of Château Vaux-le-Vicomte

Shoppers enjoying local finds at a Christmas market in Strasbourg.

Photo by Kiev.Victor

A warm welcome at the capital of Christmas.

Photo by Leonid Andronov

Photo by kavalenkava

Photo by elitravo

Cobblestone streets all aglow set the tone for a magical season. Handmade artisan ornaments adorn a local market in the Alsace region.

Epic spa experiences to give andreceive

By the CE Editorial Team

W hen it comes to rest and relaxation, nothing compares to enjoying an indulgent spa treatment in a dreamy locale. Lucky for us, Colorado is home to some world-class institutions. Whether you’re looking for a local day spa or planning a spa trip (yes, it’s a thing, and it’s as amazing as it sounds), we have some must-try spas that are sure to promote rest, relaxation and zenlike bliss. And although it’s better to give than to receive, when it comes to self-care we beg to differ—so mark a weekend on your calendar and prepare for a blissful experience at one of these serene getaways. We promise you will not be disappointed.

LOCAL BLISS

The Beer Spa

Denver’s first high-tech wellness concept, the Beer Spa is one part day spa, one part taproom to create a completely unique Colorado experience. Inspired by their travels, Jessica French and Damien Zouaoui (the husband-and-wife team behind this magical place) wanted to bring a little bit of the magic they discovered abroad to Denver. This modern, urban oasis is the quintessential Colorado experience with beer-inspired spa services and, of course, a full tap wall with rotating local brews each month. The signature experience is a 90-minute Beer Bath Hydrotherapy treatment that utilizes malt and hops from local breweries. Although you might think this is just kitsch, the hops actually help open and cleanse your pores, and yeast is high in B vitamins and has active enzymes that rejuvenate your skin. After your bath, don’t miss out on the Beer Spa’s full-spectrum infra red saunas, zero-gravity massage chairs and new beer-inspired cosmetics line. The rich vitamins and nutrients found in beer are used to create the indulgent Beer Shampoo and Conditioner that cleans, moisturizes and strengthens hair. Oh, and the Beer Body Lotion is essential during the dry winter months.

3004 Downing St., Denver | thebeerspa.com

Glosshouz

This boutique aesthetic-bar-and-spa retreat is the perfect midweek pick-me-up. With a full medspa complete with state-of-theart technologies, massage therapies and custom facials, plus hair, nails and makeup studios, you’re sure to be well rested and looking like a million dollars. Check out Glosshouz’s reflexology massage, aromatherapy soaking spa bath and seasonal spa pedicure with a hot paraffin treatment for your tootsies. Plus, the Mommy and Me packages make the best gifts for your little ladies.

8171 S. Chester St., Centennial | glosshouz.com

Well & Being Spa

The Hythe’s Well & Being Spa offers alpine-inspired spaces with an apothecary style, allowing you to connect with the bounties of nature. Case in point: its Himalayan Salt Inhalation Lounge, where you inhale beneficial salt-infused air, allowing you to breathe more deeply, restoring healthy respiratory function. Plus, the cool, dry air is known to lift moods and even improve sleep.

715 W. Lionshead Circle, Vail | thehythevail.com

The Beer Spa’s Beer Shampoo is brimming with hops for your locks and filled with ingredients for healthy, shiny hair.

Photo courtesy of the Hip Photography

Body

Soul

The Oxford Spa

If feelings of fatigue, stress and low energy are creating an imbal ance in your well-being, it might be time to stimulate your senses with a Remineralizing Body Wrap at the Oxford Spa. Essential oil-infused seawater gel provides all the trace minerals needed to rebalance sluggish cells with the powers of marine therapy and aromatherapy. While you are wrapped up in warmth and comfort, for added nirvana the staff tops it off with a scalp massage with sweet notes of jasmine, bergamot, vanilla and coconut. The finishing touch is a lotion application of Oligomer Remineralizing Body Cream to leave your skin feeling silky and your body calm and re-energized. Additionally, the Oxford Club offers the latest in car dio and strength training equipment, with an extensive schedule of daily group exercise classes including yoga, barre and cycling. Better yet, stay at The Oxford Hotel and make a staycation out of it!

1616 17th St. #100, Denver | theoxfordhotel.com

The Remède Spa

Exclusive to St. Regis Hotels and Resorts, Remède Spa is an indulgent sanctuary of relaxation. The full-service spa boasts a 15,000-square-foot space filled with steam caves, cold plunges, hot tubs, a fitness center, an oxygen lounge and a confluence water fall pool that is as breathtaking as it is calming. Although all the spa’s treatments are noteworthy, the Essential HydraFacial is one to write home about. Experience deep cleansing, exfoliation and extractions while simultaneously bathing your newly revealed skin with serums of antioxidants, peptides and hyaluronic acid, which are highly effective in reducing fine lines, boosting hydration, refining texture, clearing congestion and restoring elasticity. It’s the crème de la crème of luxury!

315 E. Dean St., Aspen | stregisaspen.com

Spa Anjali

Located inside the Westin Riverfront Resort & Spa, Spa Anjali features 27,000 square feet of dedicated wellness space, including a 14-room spa offering an extensive treatment menu focused on three healing mountain traditions: the Rockies, Alps and Himalayas. With an emphasis on balancing chakras (the center of energy in the body), its unique collection of Chakra Blessings is intended to promote a feeling of clarity and balance and help clear negativity to create an optimal state of well-being and wholeness. Other “mustspa” offerings include sound therapy sessions that impact brainwave activity to help suppress pain, reduce anxiety and produce deep relaxation. Also, the Kundalini Back Treatment activates dor mant energy along the spine and helps realign the body’s rhythm to a balanced state. Additionally, guests can enjoy access to the Westin Riverfront’s saline-based outdoor pool and three infinity hot tubs as well as the recently renovated Athletic Club at the Westin.

126 Riverfront Lane, Avon | spaanjali.com

WORTH-THE-TRIP SPA GETAWAYS

Amangani, Jackson Hole, Wyo.

Amangiri, Canyon Point, Utah

The Kura Door Japanese Spa, Park City, Utah

L’Apothecary Spa at L’Auberge de Sedona, N.M.

The Living Spa at El Monte, Taos, N.M. The Nest at Blackberry Mountain, Tenn.

Spa Ojai, Ojai, Calif.

Ten Thousand Waves, Santa Fe, N.M. Willow Stream Spa at the Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn, Sonoma, Calif.

Pedicure pampering at The Oxford Spa.

Photo courtesy of The Oxford Spa

The 15,000-square-foot Remède Spa complete with a confluence waterfall pool.

Photo courtesy of St. Regis Aspen

The completely unique Chakra Blessings treatment at Spa Anjali is a must for promoting balance in the new year.

Photo courtesy of The Westin Riverfront

Photo courtesy of Well & Being Spa

The Himalayan Salt Inhalation Lounge at Well & Being Spa is available for all spa guests for a deeper sense of vitality.

In this season of giving, you can ignite the potential in youth to exit homelessness and create self-determined, fulfilled lives. Donate now and #bethespark. urbanpeak.org/donate

Photo: John Johnson

Hope for the Holidays

Your gift gives hope.

Volunteers of America Colorado transforms the lives of more than 100,000 Coloradans in need each year. VOAC’s services include housing and emergency shelters, hunger services, and other community support programs. Thanks to the support of our donors and volunteers, VOAC programs touch the mind, body, and heart of those most in need in our community.

WE HOPE

At National Jewish Health, the nation’s leading respiratory hospital, we breathe hope. For 123 years, our personalized care and innovative treatments for lung, heart, immune and related diseases have transformed the lives of millions of patients and families.

Help us breathe hope. Your donation can help fund research and care for those with respiratory and other illnesses. To make your tax-deductible donation, visit njhealth.org/help, or call 800.621.0505.

Celebrating 52 Years Brightening Y

our Home

Since The Lark began, it has been a go-to store for unique gifts and incredible home decor. From the minute you walk in the door, the women who greet you make you want to stay all day. Front door parking, complimentary gift wrapping and one-of-akind bridal registry, make the store a Denver gem.

1219 E. 4th Avenue Denver, CO

Just three blocks north of Speer, off Downing St. on 4th Avenue

Open 10am-5:30pm Monday - Friday 10am-5pm Saturday and Closed on Sunday TheLarkDenver.com