Centennial, CO February 2025

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CONNECT WITH MICHELLE

I started Infamous Physique after overcoming my own health obstacles, so I understand that losing weight and gaining muscle can be challenging, and my goal is to help you overcome hurdles and reach your goals. I analyze your body type, BMI, and metabolism, to create your individualized fitness plan.

With years of success and experience, my personally selected Certified Personal Trainers will help you overcome hurdles and reach your goals. Our team will help you see results sooner than going at it alone. We will also help you avoid injury, lose fat & gain muscle and break through plateaus. We will show you how to set realistic goals, hold you accountable and challenge you to be better, all in our brand new, safe, private by appointment training gym.

Love, Love, LOVE

February is the month of LOVE! While I’m a sucker for chocolates and flowers, my foodie heart couldn’t resist researching the tastiest ways to celebrate love in our community as well as where The Local Love is! This month, we’ve uncovered the TRUE LOVE that makes Centennial shine: its passionate people, inspiring places, and incredible local businesses.

This issue was, to say the least, a GREAT time to create and connect with local businesses. We’ve rounded up the top date-night spots with a HUGE shoutout to Krista Simonson , founder of South Denver Strong and South Denver Food! She polled over 14,000 South Denver foodies to bring us the top community-approved drinks, appetizers, dinners, and desserts. Check out the list to see if your favorite made the cut—or find your NEW local love! Don’t miss the honorable mentions in the City List, and remember to tag @CentennialCityLifestyle!

Oh, there is more Passion and Love to explore! Discover hidden gems like The Plant Gallery, Zalea, and Nolia, where owner Lilli has built something truly phenomenal. Get “Drunk in Love” with the inspiring power couple behind Felene Vodka, Kim and Tim, and craft your own signature drinks using their recipes. Searching for the perfect gift? Check Out   Wolfe Custom Woodworking for oneof-a-kind treasures, handmade with passion. OR  Frame de Art’s custom creations are a heartfelt option—and they’re up for Westword’s Best Of again this year! Cast your vote to support this local favorite on their website!

We’re also thrilled to invite you to our Centennial City Lifestyle LOVE + LOCAL Happy Hour! Join us at Social Bar on Wednesday, February 19th, from 3–6 PM at 240 Village Park Dr, Suite 100, Littleton, CO 80122. Enjoy $5 drinks, appetizers, and my personal favorite—their zero-proof mocktails. Let’s toast to love and local while making connections and supporting our amazing businesses.

Scan the QR code on our inside cover, and follow @CentennialCityLifestyle on Instagram and/or Facebook for updates. Have a suggestion for next month’s venue? Let us know!

Much love,

February 2025

PUBLISHER

Megan De La Rosa | megan.delarosa@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Danielle VonFeldt | danielle.vonfeldt@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Valerie Bianculli, Danielle VonFeldt, Megan De La Rosa

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Noah Berg Photography, Brandon Wood Photography

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

COO Matthew Perry

CRO Jamie Pentz

CTO Ajay Krishnan

VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson

VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley

AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman

LAYOUT DESIGNER Amanda Schilling

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas

Love In Full Bloom

city scene

1: Megan & Danielle join Krista Simonson @SimonsonTeamInc-RE/MAX Professionals for a tasty lunch @ChickenSaladChick Aspen Grove 2: Steve Patik & Will Autio enjoying cordials @socialbar&lounge while browsing the latest issue 3: Owners Luke Hadden & Maureen McFerson wrapping up another successful day @ChickenSaladChick in Aspen Grove 4: Jordan Acala @j_technologiesco crushing those Gym Goals with F45 6: Brandon @BrandonWoodPhotography snapping images for this months edition 7: Brian Richardson, Vanessa, and Justin Daigle, owners of Desert Donuts Grand opening in Centennial/DTC

YOUTH& BEAUTY REDISCOVERED

OCULOFACIAL PLASTIC SURGERY

At Colorado Eye Consultants, we are proud to offer oculofacial plastic surgery by ASOPRS fellowship trained & board-certified ophthalmologist, Dr. Carl Rebhun. With years of advanced training and dedication to his patients, Dr. Rebhun combines the latest surgical innovations with artistic precision to achieve natural, rejuvenating results.

WHY CHOOSE DR. CARL REBHUN?

EXTENSIVE TRAINING: ASOPRS fellowship trained and board-certified.

INNOVATIVE TECHNIQUES: Utilizes the latest and most innovative techniques.

EXCEPTIONAL CARE: Personalized consultation to meet your goals.

DUAL EXPERTISE: Specializes in both cosmetic & medical procedures. Call (303) 730-0404 to schedule your consultation today!

ColoradoEyeConsultants.com

My Salon Suite in Arapahoe Village is Opened for

Business

Located in Arapahoe Village, husband-and-wife team Cathee and Rob have transformed the space into luxurious, fully-furnished suites designed to support beauty and aesthetics professionals in building thriving businesses. Passionate about creating a space for professionals to thrive, they are dedicated to helping entrepreneurs grow their businesses, offering luxurious private suites, and fostering a welcoming community. They do it all because they believe in YOU and your success  5150 E Arapahoe Rd, Centennial, CO 80122.

Photography by @MySalonSuite

LiveWell MD Medspa- Spa Sundays

Live Well MD Med Spa kicked off Spa Sundays in January! Grab 3-5 friends and enjoy a Mini Facial, 20-minute Body Sculpting, Red Light Therapy, and themed refreshments—all for just $99 per person. Don’t miss Galentine’s Day on February 15th, from 9 AM to 2 PM—check out the event for details! Champagne and charcuterie will be served.

by @LivewellMD

Scan to read more

Home to Home Consignment NOW Open!!

Driven by her passion for consignment furniture, interior design, and community, Camille, alongside her husband Brian, has revived the family’s consignment store legacy. Now open and accepting gently used furniture and new home décor, the store offers low prices on top brands like Pottery Barn, Arhaus, Ethan Allen, and more. Customers can also find new items, including lamps, artwork, and mirrors, perfect for any budget. Check them out:  8200 S Colorado Blvd, Centennial www.hometohomeco.com

We’re your contractor for all interior and exterior needs more than just remodeling, we transform homes From roofing and siding to energy-efficient windows, interior remodeling, basement finishing, and more, we deliver lasting quality and style

the CITY LIST

We have such amazing, innovative business leaders in our community who are proud to serve you, our residents, with class and quality. We’ve compiled some of our top company picks for the services that might be on your mind this month in an effort to make your lives a little easier.

Date Nights

Angelo's Taverna angeloslittleton.com | 720.532.1389

Del Frisco's Double Eagle Steakhouse delfriscos.com | 303.796.0100

Cranelli's Italian Restaurant cranellis.com | 303.799.3661

Steakhouse 10 thesteakhouse10.com | 303.789.0911

Shanahan's Steakhouse shanahanssteakhouse.com | 303.770.7300

Jeweler

Mauzie’s Fine Jewelry mauzies.com | 303.779.9300

The Master Jeweler themasterjeweler.diamonds | 888.841.7464

Andrews Jewelry Store andrewsjewelrystore.com | 303.798.5224

Want to suggest a monthly pick?

Miro Jewelers mirojewelers.com | 303.393.8880

Littleton Jewelry littletonfinejewelry.com | 303.794.4310

City Date Spots

Colorado Karting Circuit at Centennial Airport cokartcircuit.com | 303.792.2571

The Clue Room theclueroom.com | 303.955.1722

Game Show Battle Rooms gameshowbattlerooms.com | 720.850.5305

SportyPickle sportypickle.com | 303.643.6433

Glaze and Phase glazeandphase.com | 720.324.3133

Art Galleries

Blue Sky IDEA Art Studio and Gallery blueskyideastudio.info | 303.549.0709

SoSu Artist Collective julievinceletteart.com | 303.956.5193

Artworks SouthGlenn artworkssouthglenn.com | 720.449.6468

The Madden Museum of Art themaddenmuseum.org | 773.040.0110

ARTistic Fox Art & Design Academy artisticfoxacademy.com | 720.216.7586

Sweet Treats

Desert Donuts desertdonuts.com | 720.407.8100

La Belle French Bakery labellefrenchbakery.com | 303.955.8037

The Chocolate Therapist thechocolatetherapist.com | 303.795.7913

Crave Cookies Greenwood Village cravecookies.com | 720.769.5497

Heaven Creamery heavencreamery.com | 720.398.9156

Love In Full Bloom

Celebrate Valentine’s Day with custom flowers, unique plants, and unforgettable dining experiences

Lilli Black has created a unique trifecta of businesses that blend artistry, nature, and culinary delight: The Plant Gallery, Zalea, and Nolia. Each offers an unforgettable experience for Valentine’s Day celebrations.

Lilli’s journey began with a passion for creativity, influenced by her father’s artwork displayed throughout her businesses. After years of running a flower shop and wedding planning firm, she pivoted during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Plant Gallery, launched in 2021, quickly became a local favorite, offering plant rentals for events, workshops, and hands-on classes.

Zalea, Lilli’s floral design studio within The Plant Gallery, specializes in bespoke arrangements tailored to reflect the recipient’s personality. “We get to know our clients to create a truly personalized bouquet,” Lilli explains. Zalea caters to a wide range of occasions, ensuring every floral design feels like a meaningful and heartfelt gift.

Next door, Nolia—named after the magnolia flower—offers a southern

European-inspired tapas menu with a Louisiana twist. The restaurant is beloved for its scratch-made dishes, exceptional wine, and welcoming atmosphere, making it a neighborhood favorite. “About 60% of our diners are regulars,” says Lilli, emphasizing its role as a cherished community gathering spot.

For Valentine’s Day, start at Zalea for a custom floral arrangement, available with champagne, wine, or charcuterie. The Plant Gallery offers vibrant plants, terrarium, wreath, and bonsai classes, along with plant rentals to create a memorable gift or date night. End the evening with an intimate dinner at Nolia, featuring a chef’s tasting menu with mouthwatering dishes like maitake salad and duck confit gnocchi. Guests can also order floral arrangements to complement their dining experience.

To learn more, visit: coloradoplantgallery.com zaleaflowers.com www.nolia.restaurant

ARTICLE BY VALERIE BIANCULLI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY NOAH BERG
"I am in the business of making someone's day..."

date night

Discover top local spots for a memorable evening

Picking the perfect spot for a night out doesn’t have to be overwhelming—sometimes the best gems are closer than you think!

Whether you’re planning a romantic date, a relaxed Friday escape, or a lively girls’ night, Centennial’s food scene is brimming with options. To make your search easier (and way more fun), we teamed up with local influencer Krista Simonson, co-founder of SOCIALBARLOUNGE.COM

Cocktails

Social Bar & Lounge

An upscale suburban bar and cocktail lounge offering a cozy, romantic ambiance, premium beverages, and outstanding hospitality. Enjoy delicious small plates, an exceptional drink menu, and the best happy hour around—just five dollars until 5 o’clock! Plus, indulge in specialty zero-proof cocktails crafted to impress. 240 Village Park Dr. Suite 100, Littleton 3625 W. Bowles Ave. Suite 9, Littleton

Appetizers/Small Plates

Farro Italian

A vibrant neighborhood hotspot serving up creative, delicious dishes in a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere. Local favorites like Beef Carpaccio, Antipasto, Mussels, and Sizzling Garlic Shrimp make every bite an irresistible experience. Perfect for those who crave bold flavors and great company!

8230 S. Holly Street, Centennial

the South Denver Food Group on Facebook, to uncover top picks and community favorites.

Krista and her husband, Dave Simonson, built a thriving 20-year real estate business rooted in connections with local friends and family. But when the world turned upside down in March 2020, they saw firsthand the struggles of small businesses, especially the local restaurants that define the community.

Their solution? South Denver Food. What started as a simple Facebook page to rally support for local dining spots quickly

blossomed into a thriving community of over 14,000 members, celebrating positivity, delicious eats, and local pride.

With Krista’s expertise and input from the group’s loyal followers, we’ve curated the ultimate list of date-night destinations. From cozy hideaways to fine dining gems, these spots will take your next night out to unforgettable heights—and help you discover the best of what Centennial has to offer!

For more date night ideas and honorable mentions from the community, check out our City List.

Main Course

Eddie Merlot's

A haven for steak lovers and culinary connoisseurs alike, this fine dining gem delivers steakhouse perfection with every bite. From expertly crafted cuts to exceptional sides, every detail is designed to impress. With a perfect blend of luxury and warmth, it creates the ideal setting for an unforgettable dining experience.

10110 E. Dry Creek Road, Englewood

EDDIEMERLOTS.COM

Where culinary excellence meets a vibrant and inviting atmosphere, offering delicious, made-from-scratch dishes, quality meats, and desserts that truly steal the show. Indulge in decadent Chocolate Crème Brûlée, refreshing Lemon Blueberry Pie, or the irresistible Sea Salt Caramel Cheesecake—each one a must-try treat that will leave you craving more!

51 W. Dry Creek Court, Littleton

Framing Love: A Unique Gift Idea

CREATE A PERSONAL, LASTING GIFT THAT CELEBRATES YOUR UNIQUE BOND

This Valentine’s Day, skip the typical chocolates and flowers and give a gift that’s both meaningful and lasting—custom framing by Frame de Art. A personalized framed piece is more than just a keepsake; it becomes a daily reminder of your love.

Consider framing a cherished photo, a handwritten love letter, or even a sports jersey. Whether it’s a picture from a special trip or a jersey from a memorable game, framing these items adds depth and significance, turning them into beautiful, timeless décor. For sports fans, a custom-framed jersey is a standout gift that honors his passion while enhancing your home.

Frame de Art, offers a wide range of framing options to suit your relationship’s unique aesthetic. As the proud 2024 Winner of Westword’s Best of Denver for "Best Framing", you can trust that they’ll help you choose the perfect frame, matting, and design to beautifully reflect your shared style. A framed piece not only has visual appeal but also deep emotional value—it’s a constant presence in your home, a reflection of the bond you share.

In a world of fleeting trends, custom framing is a timeless gesture. It goes beyond the material to celebrate your love story in a way no other gift can. This Valentine’s Day, make the occasion extra special with a thoughtful, personalized gift that will remind him of your love every time he looks at it.

Visit Frame de Art at 3065 S Broadway, Englewood, CO, or call 303-722-1525 to get started. framedeart.com

THE VODKA DUO

RESILIENT ENTREPRENEURS REVOLUTIONIZE VODKA WITH AUTHENTICITY, QUALITY, AND INNOVATION.

ARTICLE BY DANIELLE VONFELDT

PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRANDON WOOD

Tim Kelly and Kim Laderer, known as the "First Couple of Vodka," have built Felene Organic Sugarcane Vodka into one of America's fastest-growing vodka brands. What began as a shared vision to create a premium, organic vodka turned into a testament to their resilience and innovation, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2020, while the closure of restaurants and bars brought the spirits industry to a standstill, alcohol consumption reached record highs. Undeterred by the

challenges, Kelly and Laderer adapted their business model, focusing on direct-to-consumer sales and leveraging e-commerce to connect with customers confined to their homes.

Felene Vodka was born from the couple’s commitment to authenticity. They identified a gap in the market for a pure, additive-free vodka and created one made from organic sugarcane, free of GMOs and gluten. Tim, an experienced distiller, refined Felene’s unique proofing and filtering processes, while Kim, handling operations and marketing, ensured the brand resonated with consumers. Despite tough competition from global vodka brands, their hands-on approach laid the foundation for success.

Awards soon validated their hard work earning numerous accolades, including Gold Medals at the New York International Spirits Competition, Los Angeles Spirits Competition, and Denver International Spirits Competition, as well as a 92 rating and “Best Buy” designation from  Wine Enthusiast . These honors reinforced Felene’s position in the premium vodka category.

In addition to growing Felene into a national brand with distribution in key markets like New York, Texas, Florida, and California, Kim and Tim share their expertise through the  Club Felene Blog and  Pour Decisions Professional Blog. They consult with bars and restaurants, offering tips on cocktail preparation and operations.

While running a fast-growing business has its challenges, Kim and Tim’s partnership remains a key strength. Their complementary skills and mutual respect have enabled them to balance work and personal life effectively.

The couple's success is also rooted in their grassroots beginnings. They built Felene’s loyal customer base through local tastings, personal deliveries, and word-of-mouth. Today, they are celebrated for their authenticity and commitment to

“Felene’s success stems from authenticity, resilience, and a commitment to quality and organic production.”

organic production. As their media presence grows, they continue to inspire others by advocating for transparency in the spirits industry.

Looking ahead, Kim and Tim remain committed to Felene’s core values of quality, transparency, and authenticity. They plan to expand distribution further and introduce new products, continuing to push the boundaries of craft vodka.

RASPBERRY ROSE VALENTINE'S MARTINI

This cocktail combines the romantic essence of raspberries with the floral notes of rose water.

RASPBERRY

ROSE MARTINI

INGREDIENTS

• 2 oz  Felene® Flavors Raspberry-Lemonade Vodka

• 0.75 oz  Raspberry Liqueur

• 0.5 oz  Rose Water

• 0.5 oz  Lemon Juice

INSTRUCTIONS

Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with a single rose petal and raspberries.

INGREDIENTS

• 1 1/2 oz- Cucumber & dragon fruit gin

• 3/4oz- Toasted black sesame Velvet Falernum

• 1/2oz- Lime juice

• Topped with ginger beer

• Hawaiian black lava salt & black sesame

GARNISH

• Small paint brush

• Simple syrup

• Hawaiian black lava salt mixed with a pinch of black sesame

INSTRUCTIONS

Infused Gin: Infuse 1 whole peeled and cut cucumber in gin for a week. Strain the cucumbers out. Add 1 tablespoon of organic dragonfruit powder and mix very well with a whisk. To make the syrup, toast 1/2 cup of black sesame at 350 for 10 minutes. Take it out and let it cool. In a mortar and pestle, grind the toasted black sesame, but not too fine. Add the sesame into one bottle of John D. Taylor’s Velvet Falernum. Let that set for about 2 to 3 days and use cheese cloth to strain out the fine bits of sesame. Juice one fresh lime and strain to remove the pulp.

Cocktail: Paint a strip of simple syrup down a Collins glass. Take a spoon full of Hawaiian black lava salt mixed with black sesame and layer that down where the painted simple syrup was placed. In a shaker tin combine: 1 1/2oz cucumber dragon fruit gin, 3/4oz toasted black sesame Velvet Falernum, and 1/2oz lime juice and shake that up!  Fill the painted glass with ice (I use crushed ice) and strain over the ice. Top with your favorite ginger beer (my choice is fever tree ginger beer).

The Magic Dragon

Make a Statement With This Stylish Cocktail

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The Heart of Custom Woodworking

Daniel Wolfe, the founder of Wolfe Custom Woodworking, transformed his passion for fine woodworking and cabinet making into a career after a decade in motion picture restoration in Los Angeles. Driven by a love for craftsmanship and a deep connection to the local community, Daniel creates custom furniture and cabinetry that are as functional as they are stunning.

Every piece Daniel designs is a collaboration—he works closely with clients to bring their ideas to life, ensuring the finished product is not only beautiful but also uniquely personal. From sleek, modern cabinetry to timeless, handcrafted furniture, his creations are built to last and meant to be cherished for generations.

If you’re ready to transform your vision into a custom piece that perfectly complements your home, Daniel Wolfe is the craftsman to call. Experience the joy of seeing your ideas take shape in a way that’s both practical and breathtaking. Visit  www.wolfecustomwoodworking.com or call 720-812-7826

Transforming passion into craftsmanship: Custom woodworking that blends beauty, function, and personal connection

investing would look like this?

Managing rental properties doesn’t have to be stressful At CRT Management, we specialize in taking the hassle out of property ownership, so you can enjoy the rewards of your investment without the headaches. From single-family homes to apartments and condos, our experienced team handles every detail from tenant management to maintenance ensuring your property reaches its full potential

Ready to maximize your investment and reclaim your time? Trust CRT Management for reliable, seamless property management tailored to your needs

Outsmarting the new car shortage by keeping your current car. (That’s driving joy.)

MAINTAINING YOUR CURRENT VEHICLE IS A WISE INVESTMENT

A SALAD REC IPE TO LOV E

A GORGEOUS, FRESH AND SIMPLE DISH

PEAR, PROSCIUTTO,

Burrata Salad

INGREDIENTS

• Ripe Pear

• Prosciutto

• Burrata

• Lemon Zest

• Extra Virgin Olive Oil

• Dried Figs

• Red Pepper Flakes

DIRECTIONS

1. Slice the ripe pear into thin slices.

2. Arrange pear slices on a plate, creating a base for the salad.

3. Nestle slices of prosciutto in-between pear slices, a perfect combo of sweet and savory.

4. Tear the burrata into bite-sized pieces and scatter them over the salad adding a velvety creaminess to the ensemble.

5. Grate fresh lemon zest over the entire salad, infusing it with citrus flavor.

6. Top with fresh basil, figs and pepper flakes.

7. Finish by generously drizzling extra virgin olive oil over the salad, creating a silky texture that ties it all together.

FEBRUARY 2025

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

FEBRUARY 8TH

Epic Love from Shakespeare to Superheroes

Lone Tree Arts Center, 10075 Commons St. Lone Tree, CO 80124 | 7:30 PM

Join us for an extraordinary evening of passion and heroism at “Epic Love: From Shakespeare to Superheroes,” a Valentine’s-themed concert that celebrates legendary romances and iconic tales. Don’t miss this unforgettable celebration of love’s many forms, from the dramatic to the heroic.

FEBRUARY 19TH

Centennial City Lifestyle Happy Hour At Social Bar and Lounge

Social Bar & Lounge, 240 Village Park Dr. Suite 100, Littleton | 3:00 PM

Come celebrate Love and Local with the community and partners at this exclusive event! Meet the publisher and show your love for local spots while enjoying their famous happy hour—$5 before 5 exclusively for Centennial City Lifestyle readers.  Plus, indulge in specialty zero-proof cocktails crafted to impress. Find the QR code in the ad and RSVP!

FEBRUARY 23RD

Symphony of the Rockies and Dartmouth Association: A Piano Recital

University of Denver, Knoebek

Tuscan Ballroom, 2044 E. Evans Ave., Denver | 2:30 PM

Join the Symphony of the Rockies and Dartmouth Association of the Rocky Mountains on February 23, 2025, for an unforgettable piano recital featuring the renowned Samuel Chang. The event includes a VIP Reception at 1:00 PM followed by the Concert at 2:30 PM. Don’t miss this afternoon of musical brilliance in an elegant setting!

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