Décor Tips for Effortless Holiday to Winter Transitions with @theblisshouseco
Megan
ARTICLE BY SUZIE WELLS
on the cover
Nestled in the heartofRochester
AT 283 CENTRAL AVENUE,
DL Home & Garden is more than just a furniture store—it’s a design destination where history, elegance, and thoughtful craftsmanship merge.
Housed in the historic National Hotel Building, a Victorian-era hotel from the late 1800s, and formerly the home of Cable Wiedemer Hotel & Restaurant Supply, this 11,500-square-foot showroom reflects the charm and character of the past while offering modern, timeless furnishings for every space in your home.
Co-owners Brian Coutu and Bob Breissinger have preserved the building’s historic features, from the original tin ceilings and exposed brick to the warm, restored hardwood floors. Their dedication to maintaining the integrity of this iconic space while transforming it into a retail experience is a testament to their passion for design and craftsmanship. DL Home & Garden is more than a store—it’s a part of Rochester’s downtown revival.
Since opening in the fall of 2014, DL Home & Garden has grown into a unique gem that attracts customers not only from Rochester but from across New York. People travel from cities like Buffalo, Syracuse, and even Skaneateles to explore the diverse selection of well-crafted, heirloom-quality furniture. “Furniture is an investment,” Coutu says, emphasizing the importance of well-made pieces that can stand the test of time. Unlike cheaply made furniture that often ends up in landfills, the items at DL Home & Garden are carefully crafted and curated to serve both form and function in the home.
A THOUGHTFUL APPROACH TO DESIGN
One of the standout features of DL Home & Garden is its beautifully arranged vignettes. Instead of overwhelming customers with a clutter of furniture pieces, the showroom is meticulously designed to inspire. Each vignette showcases how various elements—furniture, lighting, artwork, and accessories—can work together harmoniously in a space. Brian explains that area rugs function as the anchor of a room, creating a dynamic artistic statement while softening the room, turning hard surfaces into cozy, inviting spaces. With one of the largest selections of area rugs in the area, DL Home & Garden ensures that customers can find the perfect piece to complete any room.
Brian’s design philosophy is clear: comfort first. “Comfort is paramount,” he says, adding that furniture must feel as good as it looks. He advises starting with neutral tones, which can be paired with colorful accents like throw pillows or accent chairs to bring vibrancy and personality to a room. That way, you’ll create a space that feels timeless yet personalized to your style.
SEASONAL SPLENDOR
As the holiday season approaches, DL Home & Garden becomes a festive destination filled with cheerful decorations. Beautifully decorated trees adorned with glass ornaments fill the showroom, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Charming reindeer figurines add a playful touch, while soft twinkling lighted trees enhance the cozy feel of the space. Visitors will find a curated selection of gifts, including unique hostess presents like festive party napkins and witty wine holders, as well as crafted jewelry, dog accessories, candles, purses and more! This delightful décor not only enhances the holiday shopping experience but also inspires customers to celebrate the season with style.
DESIGNERS LIBRARY: A CREATIVE HAVEN
Located on the second floor of DL Home & Garden is the Designers Library, a one-stop resource for interior designers across Western New York. Managed by Michael Brothers, the Designers Library has been serving professionals for over 30 years, offering access to over 60,000 fabric and material samples from the latest lines. Designers can collaborate with the in-house team to create and refine their projects, making the library a vital resource for both the design community and DL Home & Garden itself. “It’s a win-win,” Brothers says, as the library fosters growth in the design world while supporting the store.
A YEAR-ROUND DESTINATION
Whether you’re looking for the perfect piece of furniture, a unique area rug, or a thoughtful gift, DL Home & Garden offers a curated selection of items to explore. From candles to lotions, whimsical coasters and greeting cards to purses and cookbooks, their collection of accessories makes it easy to find something special for any occasion.
The experience at DL Home & Garden is more than just shopping—it’s about discovering new possibilities for your home. With a focus on quality, craftsmanship, and timeless style, Brian, Bob, Samantha Demario, and Michael Brothers round out the talented team that are committed to helping customers turn their design visions into reality. Stop by DL Home & Garden today and see why this historic space has become one of the most beloved design destinations in the region.
COZY SEASON IN ROC
WhenI prepared to move to Rochester for college in 2019, everyone told me, “Get ready for those Western New York winters. They get a crazy amount of snow up there!” I thought, “Ha! We get snow where I’m from in the Hudson Valley. I’m used to it. Besides, how much of a difference can a 4-1/2 hour drive really make?” As it turned out, a big difference.
That first year, I watched in awe as midOctober flurries danced outside my dorm room window. It was the earliest I’d ever seen it snow. Eventually, the flurries turned into a minor snowstorm. On my way to the dining hall that night I passed a small snowman and students pelting snowballs at each other, shrieking with laughter and cheeks flushed pink from the cold.
While it doesn’t always snow enough to build a snowman and have a snowball fight in October, living here has taught me to expect at least a few snowflakes by Halloween. Every year, I wait for that unusually cold fall day that brings the first snowfall of what I call “cozy season.” It’s my favorite season, and there are few better places to experience it than right here in Western New York.
To me, “cozy season” is cheering with ten thousand of my closest friends when the Amerks score at Blue Cross Arena. It’s strolling through the Lamberton Conservatory Holiday Show amidst twinkling lights and vibrant tropical plants. It’s taking refuge from the cold with a hot caramel macchiato while admiring the electric interior of Java’s Cafe. But most of all, it’s wrapping myself in a blanket on the couch and watching the snow fall outside my window.
This winter, I urge you to embrace what it means to live in a place that gets “a crazy amount of snow.” Go sledding and warm up with hot cocoa afterwards. Build a snowman complete with a beanie and carrot nose. Catch a snowflake on your tongue. Romanticize the season while we have it. And of course, stay cozy.
CONTENT WRITER
@ITS.NIKKILO
JUST A FEW OF MY FAVORITE THINGS
coming home after a long work day, kicking off my work shoes, and slipping my feet into soft and fluffy bliss.
fleece-lined leggings
Now you know my secret for staying warm when I’m out and about during a Rochester winter.
peppermint sticks
Stir these in your hot cocoa and let them melt for an extra special kick to cozy season’s iconic drink.
cookies and a chestnut praline latte!
SALES
CARMEN CAMPBELL
CHRISTINE WHITE
DARIA REITKNECHT
LAURIE ABBOTT
Marketing Consultants
EDITORS
SARAH CHRIST
Designer + Photographer
KARA IVISON
Designer + Digital Specialist
CONTRIBUTORS
SUZIE WELLS
Lead Content Writer
KAITLIN DONNAN
Proofreader/Content Writer
AMANDA MUSTER
HAVERLY ERSKINE
MEGAN MALEY
SARAH PAVIA
VIVIEN REED
Contributing Writers
MANAGEMENT
STEVE HARRISON
MANUEL KARAM
CRISTIE LEONE
Give the gift of a Buffalo Staycation or treat yourself!
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Ring in the New Year on the Rooftop at Vue!
Join us for a celebration featuring hors d’oeuvres, dessert, open bar, champagne toast, DJ and fireworks!
Advance registrations are required - Reserve online!
Treat yourself to one of our luxurious spa treatments!
holiday cheer
pg. 18 Cozy Up Your Home: Tips for Effortless Holiday to Winter Transitions
pg. 21 Holiday Pop-Up Markets to Shop This Season
Our HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE
Gifts as fun to give as they are to receive! Curated with some of my most loved favorites in mind.
Come see what’s in store and cross some names off your list. We’ll even gift wrap them for you! Let’s make your holiday shopping easy and stress free this year!
Enduring home furnishings, endearing gifts, and all the design resources you need to live beautifully at home.
We ship and provide curbside pickup. Inquire about our corporate gift bundles. Holiday Hours Tues-Fri 11-5:30pm, Sat 10-2pm
ILLUSTRATOR, MODERN CALLIGRAPHER & SURFACE PATTERN DESIGNER
Creating nature-inspired artwork infused with joy and symbolism, bringing richness to our everyday lives through every hand-drawn element.
EMERSON & OLIVER
This year’s number one gift, Gold DIA Bracelets. The original stainless steel spring bracelets.
@emersonandoliver www.emersonandoliver.com
MAX CHOPHOUSE & MAX OF EASTMAN PLACE
Give the gift of great food and ambiance with a Max Rochester gift card. Use at any location!
Call 585-697-0491 www.maxrochesterny.com
KIAKS
Offering a variety of vintage & secondhand home décor, clothing and self-care products.
@kiaksroc 806 Monroe Ave., Rochester kiaksroc.com
JUST BROWSING
A brow studio specializing in brow services & elevated skincare.
@justbrowsingroc www.justbrowsing.co 1577 Monroe Ave., Rochester
PANACHE CONSIGNMENT
Women’s Luxury Consignment Shop & Home Furnishings
@panachebynatalierae
@panachehome
panacheconsignboutique.com 1855 Monroe Ave., Rochester
CLOTH-N-MORTAR
Where fashion and feeling good come together!
@clothnmortar clothnmortar.com 142 Fairport Village Landing
LIVE LOVE SHOP LOCAL.
WAREHOUSE 127
Hand-poured natural soy wax Forest Fir candles, beautifully packaged for gifting. Enjoy the cozy scents of spruce, fir needles, and balsam.
@warehouse127home 120 Railroad St., Rochester
GREATER LIVING ARCHITECTURE
Home for the holidays? Let’s make plans! @greater.living.architecture www.greaterliving.com 3033 Brighton-Henrietta TL Rd.
CUFF YOUR STUFF E-CUFF
The perfect gift for florists, climbers, crafters, and craftsmen who use small hand tools. $39.95 @ecufftool
Available on www.e-cuff.com Amazon and TikTok Shop
CONCEPT II TILE
Get ready for holiday hosting with 20% off select tile.
@conceptii.tile www.RochesterTile.com Piano Works Plaza, East Rochester
new! Print your recipient’s address or let us mail for you!
Send your loved ones season’s greetings and share your favorite memories with our custom designed holiday card collection! Go online now to check out our designs and order yours today!
With the holiday season upon us, I invite you to enjoy a visit to the shop where you will find a collection of pieces I have been curating over the past year. It’s all here— from handcrafted textiles to one-of-a-kind accessories and timeless pieces to enjoy with your loved ones for years to come.
Join me at the store in November and December, open Wednesday to Friday from 10 AM to 5:30 PM, and Saturday from 9 AM to 4 PM.
Wishing you and yours a wonderful holiday season.
Cozy Up Your Home
Tips for Effortless Holiday to Winter Transitions
With a focus on earthy tones and natural textures, Amanda Muster from @theblisshouseco guides you through transforming your holiday décor into a serene winter retreat. Her tips capture the warmth and comfort of the holiday season while maintaining a stylish and inviting atmosphere that lasts well into winter.
Stick to Earthy Neutrals
Embrace warm whites, soft taupes, and cozy grays for a serene backdrop that easily transitions between seasons. For larger pieces like sofas and rugs, these neutrals anchor your space and allow for seasonal accents. Shop at local boutiques or fabric stores offering upholstery from local craftsmen. Investing in handmade or locally sourced items supports your community and adds a unique touch to your home.
Switch Out Holiday-Specific Items
After Christmas, simplify your décor by replacing holiday greenery and ornaments with natural elements like pinecones or eucalyptus. Local florists or farmers’ markets often carry these items, and you can reuse glass jars or wooden trays for a fresh look that feels cozy without holiday clutter.
Layer Textures for Warmth
Neutrals can be lively through texture. Add variety with a chunky knit throw, faux fur pillows, and linen or wool accents. Support local textile shops or artisans for unique items that enhance your décor. Even small textured accents like placemats or baskets can enrich any room.
Natural Elements as Décor
Incorporate nature indoors using pinecones, branches, or wood elements from local parks. Fill a wooden bowl or ceramic dish with these items for a grounding centerpiece that maintains a winter vibe and is sustainable for future seasons.
Mix in Metallic Accents for Subtle Shine
Maintain a touch of shimmer with metallics like gold or silver, but use them sparingly. A gold-trimmed mirror or brushed brass candleholders catch the light beautifully. Local antique shops often have unique metallic décor that complements neutrals, adding a hint of luxury.
Incorporate Cozy Winter Scents
Enhance your home’s atmosphere with winter scents like cedar or cinnamon. Purchase artisanal candles or diffusers from small businesses to keep a warm vibe as you transition from the spicy scents of Christmas to soothing winter aromas.
Seasonal Florals and Branches
Swap holiday poinsettias for winter florals like white amaryllis or dried hydrangeas. Visit a local florist for fresh blooms or winter wreaths to keep your home seasonal while supporting local businesses.
By maintaining a neutral palette and layering textures, you can create a warm, inviting home that feels stylish as you transition into winter. A space filled with pieces reflecting your personal style and community support is always meaningful!
ShopSmall
THEMATA Holiday Markets
November 29th & 30th // 10am–4pm Culver Road Armory
Roc Made Holiday Nov. 30th & Dec. 1st // 11am-4pm Arbor at the Port
The Holiday Market at the Square
November 30th // 10am-4pm Perinton Square Mall
Viciously Crafty Holiday Makers Market
December 7th // 10am-3pm Stacy K Floral
The Strathallan Skyline Sip & Shop
December 8th // 10am-3pm
The Strathallan (next to Hattie’s)
Harvest Home Holiday Market
December 8th // 11am-4pm Pomona at Blue Barn
Annual Holiday Art Bazaar
December 14th // 10am-3pm
The Yards Collective, 50-52 Public Market Way
THEMATA Last Minute Monday Market
December 23rd // 10am-6pm Culver Road Armory
INSIGHTS from the top
Marie Kast, Founder & Lead Coach at CORE Leadership
Icon Member at The NXT Level Collective
Q. I consistently fall short of my business goals. What do I need to do differently in 2025 to achieve my goals?
A. Step away from business-as-usual to identify with great clarity where you’re going and who you must become to get there. True power to grow your business starts with gaining insight from your Inner Coach. It is through this connection that you’ll uncover where you’re going and who you must become to fulfill that vision. Use the following guidelines to create your business retreat to plan a stellar 2025!
10 Tips for Creating the Perfect Conditions to Plan Your Best Year Yet!
1. Take at Least One Day to Be Alone. Alone time is essential for gaining awareness to design your upcoming quarter or year. To tap into your intuition and creativity, we strongly recommend that you take one day for your quarterly planning and three or more for your yearly planning. To really “retreat” from business-as-usual, we recommend shooting for one full week each year. (Now tell me that wouldn’t be a treat!)
2. Listen to Your Inner Coach. This centered approach was created for you to connect to your Inner Coach, who guides your purpose and ideas. Pay attention, because your Inner Coach will show up at any time, even while you’re in the hot tub, going for a walk, in the middle of dinner, or dare I say, in the shower!
3. Embrace Solitude. Go about your day in solitude as much as possible. Take time to meditate. Do some deep breathing. Start your mornings slow, quiet, and intentional. Practice being present and calm throughout the day. And whatever you do… don’t work through your meals.
4. Allow for a Zone of Silence. This means no cell phone, no computer, and no distractions. Turn off all notifications.
There will be plenty of time later to catch up. Hmmm, is this tip bringing up any resistance for you? Lean into it!
5. Write with a Pen and Paper. What travels from your heart to your head can be transferred to digital format after the retreat. Pen and paper bring out creative thinking and quality ideas. It’s proven that what is written by hand increases the likelihood of achievement as well. A little “old school” for you, my friend.
6. Release Any “Bad Feelings.” You cannot accomplish anything of value in a state of stress. Whenever you feel worry, control, or fear, stop for a moment and just allow yourself to feel it until it passes—and it will! Then bask in the relief you’ll feel and get back to “work.”
7. Keep a Resonant Tone. Whatever you are doing must feel good and not deplete you. If you notice your energy shifting away from resonance, stop and ask yourself: “What do I want to do right now?” Then do it.
8. Remain in Your Future Self. Think in terms of what you want for your business and what kind of leader you want to be in the future. Rid yourself of that gremlin reminding you of your past “failures” or telling you things like, “That’s unrealistic,” or “What makes you think you can do that?” Future-you thinking is a glimpse of what’s possible!
9. Have Fun. This isn’t meant to be all work. Self-care is very important during this time. Allow yourself to do the things that you might let slide when you’re back at home or work. Exercise, read, walk, kayak, or catch the sunset. The list is endless. Be spontaneous and allow yourself a truly retreat experience.
10. Do What Feels Right. There’s no wrong or right way to do your retreat. This is YOUR retreat, nobody else’s!
We will be featuring our NXT Level "ICON" Members in this column to answer your burning questions on how to take your business, career, or life to the next level! Send your questions to: info@thenxtlevelcollective.com www.thenxtlevelcollective.com
Refocusing on Ourselves
As we approach the holiday season and the new year, we tend to reflect on the past year, what we’ve accomplished, what goals we’ve achieved, how we’ve grown, etc. Reflecting on the past year reveals it was filled with unexpected changes.
January started like any other, with travel, spending time with family, and lots of coffee. When February rolled around, my partner announced he was moving to California. After much contemplation and discussion, I decided to move as well. By April, quitting my job, selling most possessions, saying goodbye to family and friends, and making the cross-country drive to LA (with my cat) had become reality. By May, the relationship with my partner ended.
Returning to New York (still jobless and without an apartment) left a feeling of being completely lost. My mental and physical health had deteriorated, and looking in the mirror revealed a stranger staring back. Desperation to regain control of life emerged.
Moving in with family created an opportunity to reconnect with who I once was and what I truly wanted. Time was taken to explore passions and embrace the concept of rest. Slowly, day by day, I began to find my footing. Teaching yoga again, starting to write, and launching a consulting business in August—a dream never once thought possible—became milestones. This journey unveiled just how much could be achieved when the same love and energy given to others was directed inward.
As someone who has chronically focused on others and had often neglected my own dreams, needs, and desires, I understand how challenging it can be to put yourself first. At the end of the day, we have only one life to live. You cannot show up as the best version of yourself for those around you if you haven’t properly cared for yourself. Let this New Year be the year of You.
It is so easy for us to lose ourselves. We pour energy into the ones we love, but in doing so, we often neglect ourselves. As we move into the New Year, I encourage you to take time to focus on yourself. No, it’s not selfish. It’s self-care. What are your needs, your dreams, your goals, and how can you address them every day? You may ask, “Where do I start?” Here are five tried-and-true, actionable steps to help support a healthier, more self-focused you.
Set Boundaries
The holidays are the perfect time to enforce your boundaries. Evaluate what brings you joy and what you do out of obligation. Be direct with loved ones about holiday expectations. Think of boundaries as tools to address your needs and prevent future conflict.
Move Your Body
Movement is essential. Physical activity improves circulation, metabolism, and oxygenation. Research shows that those who move more have fewer blood clots, better digestion, less cartilage deterioration, and even better skin! Just 10 minutes of walking daily can add two years to your life expectancy. Try a walking pad at your desk or wake up earlier to hit the gym. It doesn’t matter what you do, as long as you do something!
Take One Actionable Step Every Day
Some days, reaching our goals can feel impossible. One way to combat this is by breaking goals into micro-steps. Set your overall goal and list the necessary steps to achieve it. Tackle one micro-step every day, like sending an email or reading for 10 minutes. Each micro-step will build over time, getting you closer to your big goal and allowing you to feel accomplished daily.
Live in the Present Moment
While reflecting on the past and planning for the future is helpful, true happiness comes from focusing on the present. In The Power of Now, author Eckhart Tolle discusses how suffering often stems from being trapped in the past or worrying about the future. Keeping ourselves in the present reduces much of our suffering. Slow down your day and notice automated tasks, like driving home or brewing coffee. Fill each action with intention and meaning. When your mind drifts, gently bring it back to the present. The more you focus on now, the less you’ll worry about things outside your control.
Create a Healthy Routine
Healthy routines are crucial for overall well-being. Research shows they can reduce stress, improve sleep, and boost happiness. As someone with chronic illness, I know how important they are. Start your day with fresh air and sunlight, get essential vitamins and minerals, move your body, sip coffee, and spend time phone-free before starting your day.
The best part about building healthy habits is that once you start with one, it becomes easier to add more. A friend recently added morning walks before work and found she was more likely to go to the gym afterward. Healthy habits build on each other, so start with one small change and see where it takes you!
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local life
pg. 29 Roc Holiday Village: Fresh Experiences and Community Spirit
pg. 35 Rochester Gives Back: Inspiring Work from People in Your Neighborhood
ROC HOLIDAY VILLAGE
A Winter Wonderland Returns with Fresh Experiences and Community Spirit
BY SUZIE WELLS
Every December, Rochester’s Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Park transforms into a festive haven thanks to Kelli Marsh, Jenna Knauf, and Sean McCarthy. Roc Holiday Village, now in its sixth year, returns with a blend of cherished traditions and exciting new additions for 2024, promising a magical experience for visitors of all ages.
“We’re focused on creating a vibrant, immersive experience that fosters community engagement and holiday spirit.”
A Community-Centered Celebration
At its heart, Roc Holiday Village celebrates community, and this year’s event is no different. The Giving Cup is back, featuring 21 different local non-profits throughout the festival, with each day spotlighting a new organization selling hot cocoa to raise funds for their cause. This initiative supports local charities and fosters a deeper connection between visitors and organizations making a difference in the Rochester area.
Local businesses are also featured, with a rotation of 50 regional retailers in the Village’s shopping area. The curated marketplace supports small businesses and local artisans, encouraging visitors to shop local during the holiday season. By promoting community pride and economic growth, Roc Holiday Village uplifts Rochester’s small business scene.
A Vision Rooted in Tradition and Inclusivity
For co-founder Kelli Marsh, Roc Holiday Village is deeply personal. Born and raised in Rochester, Marsh’s childhood visits with Santa inspired her vision of bringing that sense of wonder back to her hometown. Her goal, along with Knauf and McCarthy, was to create an event that filled the void left by the closure of Midtown Plaza and revitalized downtown Rochester during the winter.
Inclusivity is at the core of the event. Roc Holiday Village celebrates a wide array of cultural traditions—Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Three Kings Day, and Christmas—ensuring that everyone feels represented. Marsh explains, “One of the best things about the winter holidays is the multitude of cultural traditions we can explore and appreciate. Community partners help us create memorable and educational experiences for our guests.”
Bringing the Holiday Magic to Life
Putting together Roc Holiday Village is no small feat. From scheduling events and booking experiences to coordinating with vendors and volunteers, the festival requires year-round planning and dedication from the entire team.
“Our mission has remained the same since we started,” says Marsh. “We’re focused on creating a vibrant, immersive experience that fosters community engagement and holiday spirit.” This goal drives every decision, from adding exciting new activities to supporting local non-profits and businesses.
Returning Favorites
While the new offerings are exciting, the festival’s traditional activities continue to be a major draw. Visitors can look forward to free ice skating and skate rentals, cozy igloos, fire pits, and a bustling outdoor seating area. Live music performances, a diverse selection of food and drinks, and free crafts for kids make the event magical.
A favorite of both children and adults, Santa’s Workshop remains one of the most inclusive spaces at the festival, offering free visits with Santa in a joyful environment that celebrates the spirit of the season.
Looking Ahead
As Roc Holiday Village continues to evolve, it remains a testament to the power of community, inclusivity, and holiday joy. With its mix of tradition, innovation, and heart, the event is poised to make 2024 another unforgettable year for Rochester residents and visitors alike. Whether you’re there to skate under the stars, sip hot cocoa for a cause, or soak in the festive atmosphere, Roc Holiday Village offers something for everyone.
For more details and the full schedule visit: ROCHOLIDAYVILLAGE.COM
What’s New for 2024?
Movies & Paint-and-Sip Events
This year’s Roc Holiday Village is packed with fresh features and activities to keep guests entertained. Among the new offerings are movie screenings and paint-and-sip events, appealing to those looking for entertainment beyond signature ice skating, cocoa, Santa visits, and crafts. The free movie screenings will create a cozy atmosphere for families, while the ticketed paint-and-sip events offer a fun outlet for adults.
Gingerbread House Bar
Another exciting development is the debut of a bar inside the Gingerbread House, transforming this cozy space into a festive retreat. Visitors can enjoy beverages from this new addition alongside their usual stop at the Lodge Bar and outdoor bar.
Post-Christmas Fun
Additionally, Roc Holiday Village is extending its holiday magic beyond Christmas for the first time since 2019. After Santa heads back to the North Pole, Santa’s Workshop will become The Rec Room, an arcade filled with free-play games for all ages, keeping the post-Christmas energy alive.
Sip & Savor
Other new features include canned cocktails on the bar menus and a unique “build-your-board” bar, allowing visitors to craft their own cheese and charcuterie boards. These new elements ensure that whether you’re seeking drinks and games or festive activities, there’s something to enjoy.
The Tradition of Roc Holiday from The Hickey Crew
@THE_HICKEY_CREW
Visiting Roc Holiday Village has become a cherished family tradition for us. Each year, we enjoy the company of friends who have become like family. One of our favorite traditions is visiting Santa; the kids adore meeting him and mailing their wish lists in the big red mailbox, creating magical moments we look forward to.
One particularly memorable experience stands out. We were sitting around the fire, enjoying the warmth, when the kids started dancing to the music. They were having the best time! One of our daughters turned to us and said it was the best day of her life. The amazing atmosphere and holiday cheer truly get us into the holiday spirit.
We also look forward to the delicious treats like hot chocolate, coffee, donuts, and the always-popular grilled cheese. The activities bring joy to our kids, especially learning to skate at the ice rink.
Attending Roc Holiday Village brings so much holiday cheer to our community. It’s wonderful to see people we haven’t seen since high school, along with their children, creating a fun atmosphere that strengthens our sense of community.
For families visiting for the first time, our best advice is to soak in the little moments. During our first visit, we tried to do everything, and it felt overwhelming to ensure the kids experienced it all. But we realized that just being there allowed them to have the best time dancing around the fire, and that’s what it’s all about.
Rochester Gives Back
The holiday season brings joy and togetherness but can also highlight grief for many families. In our community, remarkable individuals turn personal challenges into missions that uplift others.
From the Pettit family’s Dreams from Drake, which honors their son by spreading holiday joy, to 13Thirty Cancer Connect, founded by Lauren Spiker, who channels her loss into supporting young adults facing cancer, these stories show how love can transform grief into action.
We also see inspiring work from Mama J’s Southern Lemon Pound Cakes, where Brittany Jones combines her baking passion with a commitment to hunger relief, and Teri Pink, who helps dogs and the community through her organic treat business, Pink’s Pup Treats. Finally, Kim Rouleau’s RocMadeWithLove initiative highlights the power of handmade gifts to bring warmth and dignity to the unhoused and refugees in our area.
These stories reflect resilience and hope, reminding us that even in tough times, we can find light through acts of kindness. Let’s explore how these individuals and their initiatives are spreading love this holiday season.
To represent the idea that Drake Ross Pettit is always with them in spirit, the Pettit family never takes a family picture without Roy, the rainbow-colored sock monkey.
The Pettit Family DREAMS FOR
DRAKE
The holidays can be especially hard for families grieving a loved one. For the Pettit family, this challenge is particularly profound after losing their four-year-old son, Drake, in 2012. To honor his contagious generous spirit, they created Dreams from Drake in 2013, a non-profit supporting children and teens who have lost a sibling or parent. While many programs focus on grief support, Happy Hearts for the Holidays brings a different light to the season.
This program was born from Drake’s love of sharing. “We didn’t want the foundation to be all about grief. This program lets us spread holiday joy in Drake’s memory,” explains Jaime Pettit, Drake’s mother and co-founder.
Happy Hearts for the Holidays collects toys for St. Peter’s Kitchen every December, helping Rochester-based families receive gifts. St. Peter’s Kitchen hosts a holiday shop where parents, grandparents, and guardians “shop” for toys, blankets, books, and children’s coats. With much of the inventory donated by Dreams from Drake, families who might otherwise struggle to provide Christmas gifts can choose several items per child.
“Since we could no longer give Drake gifts, we give to others on his behalf, so he’s still part of Christmas and holiday shopping,” Jaime shares. Her other five children help organize the toys and make drop-offs, often involving their sports teams and shopping as a group.
The Pettit family, Dreams from Drake board members, local businesses that serve as toy collection sites, and friends
and family from all over contribute to this program. An Amazon Wish List makes it easy for anyone to donate, and the family gathers donations at their home to deliver to St. Peter’s Kitchen.
This year marks the 12th year of giving, and Dreams from Drake has become the largest donor to St. Peter’s holiday shop. For the Pettits, the program offers some solace during an otherwise painful season.
“Grief is awful, but programs like this help you focus on something positive,” Jaime says. “Everyone has to find their own way, but there is a way to still have joy in your loved one’s memory. You can still spread holiday cheer.”
Brittany Jones
MAMA J’S SOUTHERN LEMON POUND CAKES
In the heart of Rochester, Mama J’s Southern Lemon Pound Cakes does more than satisfy a sweet tooth— it nourishes the community. Brittany Jones founded this seasonal pastry shop specializing in lemon pound cakes and has a mission rooted in giving back.
“Our mission is to support hunger relief,” Brittany shares. “With 10% of each cake sold, we provide hot meals for families on Sunday mornings from our church kitchen in Rochester.” Their generosity extends beyond local borders, as Brittany and her team also provide hot meals during annual mission trips to Rwanda.
Mama J’s goes the extra mile during the holiday season to spread joy, donating pound cakes to individual families and a local non-profit. For Brittany, the act of giving is not just about the cakes but about sharing hope and creating meaningful connections with the community. “We enjoy giving back and sharing hope with others,” she says, reflecting the season’s spirit.
Brittany’s passion for her business is inspired by her grandmother, Mama J, who taught her how to bake the family’s signature pound cake and taught her courage, determination, perseverance, patience, faith, and selflessness. Mama J, who is turning 87, is delighted to see how her recipe has blossomed into a beloved brand.
What started as a fundraiser in 2019 to support a mission trip to Rwanda transformed into a business thanks to a single Instagram post that caught the attention of local entrepreneur Christina Kostar, who says, “If you want to find people supporting your vision, they are in Rochester. The love and support we receive is incredible.”
Brittany’s holiday wish is simple yet profound: to serve more people. She dreams of securing a scholarship for a mission trip to Rwanda in 2025 and expanding her hunger relief efforts locally and abroad, adding, “I wish our business could get the proper funding to be full-time.”
For Brittany Jones, Mama J’s Southern Lemon Pound Cakes is more than a business—it’s a way to brighten lives, one slice at a time. “I often hear our customers say, ‘This cake brightens my day,’ and ‘This cake brings me joy,’” she shares. That joy, paired with a commitment to giving, makes Mama J’s a cherished part of the Rochester community all year long.
Kim Rouleau
@ROCMADEWITHLOVE
Kim Rouleau, a Rochester native, is on a mission to warm her community with handmade items through her grassroots initiative, RocMadeWithLove. The project gathers handcrafted hats, scarves, mittens, and blankets for the city’s unhoused and refugee populations.
Her passion for crochet began over 20 years ago, taught by her mother-in-law. Kim often crocheted while watching Bills games with her friend, Sandy Stevens, a librarian at Aquinas Institute. When Sandy passed away in 2020 and the pandemic prevented any goodbyes, Kim felt powerless.
Struggling with grief, Kim reflected on how to make the world a little better and decided to use her crochet skills to help others. She discovered Warm Up America, a movement that leaves handmade items in public spaces for people to take as needed—an idea that resonated with her.
“Handmade products are full of intention and love. Even if you don’t know who’s going to get it, it’s still very humanizing,” Kim says. She began organizing donation drives for handmade scarves, mittens, and other coldweather gear. The events and donations support the unhoused in Rochester and partner with the Rochester Refugee Resettlement’s Welcome Blankets program, gifting blankets to new Americans.
Libraries became key partners, as Kim says they “are one of the last places in our society where you can just go in and exist.” People can access services without needing money. Kim hosts crochet events at branches such as Charlotte and accepts donations at various locations, including the Charlotte Branch Library in Rochester, Crafting for Good in North Chili, Our Space Yoga & Wellness in LeRoy, St. Rita’s Church in Webster, SewGreen Rochester on W. Main St., South East Area Coalition Tool Shed on University Ave., and Sue’s Finishing Touch in Henrietta. Follow RocMadeWithLove for updates on donation locations and special events.
Kim hopes to grow RocMadeWithLove into a non-profit that strengthens Rochester while bringing dignity to those in need. She plans to set up a GoFundMe to cover material costs, ensuring the warmth and love her community needs will continue to spread throughout Rochester. “When we give someone something handmade, it shows that they matter,” she says. “That’s powerful.”
Get involved:
Donate handmade or handcrafted scarves, hats, gloves, mittens, socks, blankets, knit or crochet squares, plastic Ziploc bags, or clothespins.
Teri Pink’s lifelong love of animals, especially dogs, has driven her to create a unique venture that combines her passion for rescue with a mission to help shelter dogs find loving homes. Raised in Honeoye, NY, Teri grew up with dogs as cherished family members and has continued that tradition with her two sons, ages 14 and 16.
Despite overcoming domestic violence and raising her boys as a single mother the past twelve years, Teri’s love for animals has only grown stronger. The family’s first dog, Henry, was rescued through Pibbles N More Rescue, sparking their journey into dog fostering.
Over the years, Teri and her boys have fostered 87 dogs, from puppy mill chihuahuas to a Great Dane whose owner passed away of old age, and she says, “There have been tears, heartache,
laughter, cursing, but most of all sooooo much immeasurable love and happiness.” She loves bringing joy, love, and second chances to those in need.
In August 2024, Teri launched Pink’s Pup Treats, a line of organic dog treats made from simple, healthy ingredients. Inspired by her desire to ensure her own dogs, Walter (bull mastiff), Mabel (Pitty mix), Betsy Mae (American Bulldog/ pitty mix), Greta (“we have no idea what breed, but she’s cute”, Teri says), and Prince (American Bulldog/boxer mix), were getting the best nutrition, she started creating treats filled with wholesome ingredients. “Our pups are only with us for a short time, and I want to make sure it’s as long as possible,” Teri said, explaining her commitment to using organic ingredients.
The business quickly gained momentum, and her current foster, Rudy, inspired her to feature foster and shelter dogs on the packaging to help them gain exposure
and hopefully find forever homes. Teri loves spreading the word about the dogs on social media as well, exclaiming the tool as a free way people can help their local foster and rescue dogs even if they can’t take them in themselves.
Teri’s goal is to continue fostering, rescuing, and providing care for dogs in need. She dreams of building a foster care facility to give older or dogs with special needs a place to decompress and thrive. “No living soul deserves to live an unhappy life, especially one that truly has no other desire than to love and be loved,” she says, reflecting her deep commitment to giving dogs the love and care they deserve.
Teri Pink PINK’S PUP TREATS
Lauren Spiker
13THIRTY CANCER CONNECT
The founder of 13Thirty Cancer Connect, Lauren Spiker, has been profoundly shaped by her personal and professional experiences, culminating in a mission to help young people facing cancer. Growing up in Rochester within a loving ItalianAmerican family, Lauren’s life has always revolved around teaching and empowering others. With degrees in special education, she spent over twenty years as a special education teacher and corporate trainer before launching her own leadership training company.
Her life took a heartbreaking turn when her daughter, Melissa, was diagnosed with cancer at just 19. Melissa’s dying wish inspired the creation of 13Thirty Cancer Connect: “If you’ve learned anything from me, do something with it,” she said. As a mother of four, Lauren felt she had no choice but to say, “I promise.” Three nights later, Melissa passed away, leaving Lauren with a vow to fulfill. She knew she had to channel her grief into action and create an organization supporting adolescents and young adults (AYAs) like Melissa during critical developmental years.
Lauren recognized that AYAs often fall through the cracks between pediatric and adult medicine, leaving them underserved and unsupported. For the past 24 years, 13Thirty Cancer Connect has aimed to fill this gap, fostering a community where teens and young adults can access the emotional and physical resources they need to thrive in the face of cancer. “Cancer disrupts the development of self-identity, independence, and life goals for AYAs,” Lauren noted. “The needs of this group have long been unrecognized and unmet.”
Every moment at 13Thirty Cancer Connect is a step toward fulfilling her promise to Melissa. Lauren hopes her work honors her daughter’s memory and makes a lasting impact on the Rochester community and beyond.
Get involved:
Donate gift cards to Target, Wegmans, VISA cards, local pizza shops, and office supplies (printer paper, ink, card stock) to fuel programs and stock the youth centers.
Watch 13Thirty’s website and social media for information on fundraisers and special events to volunteer or raise funds for the programming.
for the home
pg. 44 Holly + Jolly: Entertaining with Charm and Sustainability
pg. 47 Festive Connections: Heartfelt Stories on Togetherness During the Holidays
Holly + Jolly
WRAPPED WITH A SECONDHAND BOW
Entertaining with Charm and Sustainability
by Sarah Pavia
As the holiday season approaches, the excitement of gathering and giving grows. This year, instead of reaching for brand-new holiday dinnerware and gifts, consider embracing secondhand for entertaining and events. With a little creativity, you can turn your holiday traditions into festive, eco-friendly masterpieces that are budget-friendly and filled with nostalgia!
In a season that often revolves around “new” – new gifts, new decorations, new outfits – secondhand holiday offers a refreshing change. It allows you to celebrate in a way that honors the past, supports sustainability, and creates a unique, memorable experience for you and your loved ones.
In addition to their nostalgic charm, secondhand dinnerware for the holidays is the gift that keeps on giving. The production of new dining sets each year involves the extraction of raw materials, water consumption, and energy usage – but the gift of sustainability is a great way to increase your positive carbon footprint! Holiday celebrations can be wasteful, often utilizing large amounts of disposable items and packaging. Supporting a secondhand mindset helps create a longer-term tradition that can positively grow (and make you feel good, too!)
One of the fun aspects of using secondhand for the holidays is the uniqueness these items bring to your table, especially vintage pieces, which often feature intricate designs and craftsmanship that is harder to find in modern sets. From hand-painted Christmas trees to whimsical snowmen, older dishes tell a story of celebrations from years ago. Mixing and matching different patterns can add a quirky touch to your gifts and table too – the eclectic look can be just as festive and add a level of character to your display.
holiday cocktail
Created by mixologists at The Daily Refresher Alexander Street, Rochester
Cups are both secondhand, thrifted locally!
ingredients:
- ¾ Evan Williams Bourbon
- ¾ cinnamon simple syrup
- ¾ lime juice
- ¾ cherry herring
- 1 bar spoon of all-spice dram
- 1 dash rhubarb bitters
- 1 dash cardamom bitters
- 1 orange slice for garnish
SECONDHAND TIPS: GIFTING TO OTHERS
Use thrifted holiday plates for your dinner parties, cookie exchange, and more. A secondhand plate of cookies makes two gifts in one!
Sustainable wrapping : thrift stores have large selections of wrapping paper with unique designs. You can also repurpose fabric or cloth for a different vibe and wrap with ribbon! For an extra touch, consider finding a woven basket or decorative box. The recipient can enjoy the packaging long after the gift is unwrapped!
Re-loved cooking: casseroles, muffin pans, etc. can all be thrifted and gifted – you could thrift a mason jar, fill it with a cookie recipe, and bag it with a secondhand pan to bake them in!
Drinkware: Some of my favorite glasses have come from the thrift store, and guaranteed your guests will ask “Where did you get this glass?!” as they enjoy their holiday cocktail!
For this season, as you plan your entertainment and gifting needs, explore the charm of secondhand. You’ll not only set new traditions, but this thoughtful and eco-friendly approach can bring a renewed sense of appreciation to your season of thanks and giving. And who doesn’t love saying, “Thanks, it’s thrifted!”
For more secondhand tips, visit www.secondlookstyling.com and our Instagram page @sarahsecondlook. We would love to have some thrifty fun with you – Happy Holidays!
festive cranberry cookies
Filled with an abundance of fresh, tart cranberries –balanced in a sweet cookie!
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 22 minutes
Serving Size: 32 cookies
ingredients:
- 3 eggs
- 2 cups sugar
- ¾ cup butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 12 oz bag of fresh cranberries (frozen or cold work best)
Consider looking for fun, non-traditional patterns in holiday colors. They add a unique accent to your table and still fit the holiday theme!
instructions:
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. With a mixer, beat the eggs with the sugar until slightly thickened and light in color – about 5-7 minutes. The mixture should almost double in size. This mixture should form a ribbon when you lift the beater out of the bowl, so mix well!
Add the soft butter and vanilla in; mix for two more minutes. Stir in the flour until just combined. Add the cranberries and stir to mix throughout.
Portion out the cookie dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for approximately 18 minutes, until the cookies have puffed and turned golden brown on the edges. Remove from the oven and cool on the baking sheet for at least 5 minutes.
The experiences we have while growing up profoundly shape how we celebrate holidays today. Some families choose to recreate cherished childhood traditions, passing down the joy and warmth of those moments. Others embrace the opportunity to start new customs each year, infusing fresh excitement into their holiday celebrations.
Here are heartfelt stories from families across our region that beautifully illustrate how we each make the holidays our own. Despite our diverse approaches, one common theme resonates throughout:
There’s strength in togetherness
This bond not only enriches our celebrations but also fosters a sense of belonging that carries us through the season and beyond.
FESTIVE CONNECTIONS
BY VIVIEN REED
The Mesiti Family
Singing Loud for All to Hear
Jocelyn Mesiti’s mom loved to decorate for Christmas. Despite a difficult upbringing, Jocelyn has fond memories of the Christmas season, including a toy train around their Christmas tree. “I remember sitting on the stairs as a little girl, peeking down at all the lights. It was a lovely time.” Nostalgic scenes like this impacted Jocelyn’s love for the holidays she now shares with her husband, David, and their three children.
On November 1st every year, the Mesiti family trims their Christmas tree, a practice of anticipation and hope. Jocelyn beams just talking about it, saying, “I get these mini Christmas heart attacks; it’s like my heart skips a beat.”
In December 2018, Jocelyn invited her neighbors, family, and friends to go Christmas caroling together. Since watching Christmas with the Kranks, Jocelyn wondered, “Why don’t people go caroling anymore? We should do that!” With 30-40 people each year since, the family has caroled around their Rochester neighborhood.
“One family value we emphasize is to do things for others, with others, and singing around our neighborhood follows that same golden thread. The kids look forward to going door-todoor, and we love seeing the joy on their faces. There’s a sense of wonder when we invite people into what we love.”
Jocelyn quotes Home Alone: “‘This is Christmas, the season of perpetual hope,’” adding that “Christmas is a time to remember that something better is coming and to share that hope with others.”
There’s Always Enough
The Kreider Family
Joel and Kelly Kreider have firsthand experience about inviting others in; they are full-time foster parents. Kelly says, “Growing up, I didn’t have a stable family, but I always had loving people invite me in. I always had a safe place to be.” So when Kelly and Joel married and had kids, they wanted to provide the same kind of space for other kids in need.
Noting the approximately 390,000 kids in the U.S. foster care system, Kelly says,
“There are countless ways to volunteer, and for us, we want to provide a safe home for children to just be, especially around the holidays.”
Joel and Kelly currently foster two baby girls and have two biological children of their own. As parents, they make it a point to not “other” the kids they foster, instead working to cultivate a sense of belonging. For Christmas, they bless their foster daughters the same way they bless their biological children. This includes Christmas presents and Kreider family traditions while also incorporating some of the girls’ individual culture and background.
Kelly says, “I’ve been thinking about the term radical hospitality, and what it looks like to extend generosity even when it’s uncomfortable. It takes faith to invite the brokenness into our home, trusting there will be enough space, time, resources, and love for the kids we welcome in.”
Etched in ink on Kelly’s arm are the words, “There’s always enough.” This is the belief Joel and Kelly live by. As they welcome children home, enough-ness is an extension of that faith.
The Chavez Family
Tamales for Christmas
Danyra (Dany) Chavez makes a traditional Mexican dish – tamales, spreading ¼ cup of homemade masa dough of ground corn moistened with water onto a dried corn husk she wraps around savory fillings of beef, julienned carrots, and thin potato strips. Dany drives 45 minutes to source specific ingredients from a specialty Mexican grocery store.
Dany is from Nogales, Sonora, Mexico, where a lot of her family still resides. Much of her extended family lives within minutes of each other, so Christmas was an all-day affair, with relatives coming and going, squeezing into Grandma Lupe’s small kitchen.
“We would cook and eat at the same time. It was a small space, but that didn’t matter, we were together,” Dany says. “When we made tamales, the house was crowded, and it got really hot inside. So I consider the dish coldweather comfort food. We usually make them in large batches to enjoy all winter long.”
Dany and her husband, Brad, have two young boys and live near Rochester, far from Mexico. Despite the distance, the couple makes it a priority to visit Nogales for the holidays every other year. “I want our boys to know this kind of togetherness,” Dany says with emotion. “While my kids never got a chance to meet my Nana Lupe, I want her spirit to live on by remembering all the things she taught me.”
Dany’s son Theo enters the kitchen. “Mom, I want to help!” he exclaims. She helps Theo assemble one tamal with scents from her childhood. This is the place where Dany can pass down her Mexican heritage, the space where her sons can feel at home.
Whether you’re steaming tamales atop a small kitchen stove, printing sheet music to sing to strangers, or nurturing neglected children, festive traditions express our intrinsic need for community and belonging. As you celebrate the holidays, keep the idea of fellowship in mind. Explore what makes you feel tethered or connected to others this season. Bypass the holiday hustle and celebrate the perpetual hope this season brings by just being together.
1. Chevrolet’s plug-in hybrid
2. Fuel efficiency rating (abbr.)
3. Alfa Romeo’s high-performance sedan
5. Fluid that lubricates engine parts
7. Dodge's All-Electric Muscle Car
8. Chevrolet’s iconic sports car
9. Maserati's luxury SUV
11. Toyota’s full-size pickup truck
12. VW’s compact crossover SUV
14. Ford’s high-performance o -road pickup trim
4. Adjustments made to improve engine performance
6. Chrysler's premium minivan model
10. Fluid replaced during a cooling system service
13. Chevrolet's mid-size pickup truck model
15. Chevrolet's popular full-size SUV
16. Advanced braking technology to prevent wheel lock-up (abbr.)
17. Nissan’s compact crossover SUV
You’re invited
SATURDAY
DEC. 14
Join us at the Kitchens by Oaks Webster showroom for a festive day of shopping, sipping, and celebrating! 11 AM3 PM
Plus, don’t miss your chance to enter our giveaway TO WIN A KITCHENAID MIXER!
SCAN TO RSVP
Explore handcrafted goods from local artisans, enjoy complimentary wine tastings from Casa Larga, and grab something from a selection of holiday treats. Plus, meet our award-winning design team about your next remodel to receive a special holiday promotion!
1349 Fairport Nine Mile Point Rd. Webster, NY 14580
