You’ve built a great life for yourself and your loved ones. Let us help you make the most of
and give you more time to enjoy it.
Joe Ritter , NMLS #2598309
Private Banking Market Executive
573.441.2878 801 E Broadway | Columbia, MO 65201 simmonsbank.com/privatebanking
MEMBER FDIC
Carmen Sansone | Founder
As we welcome the joyful season of December, we wanted to take a moment to reflect on what the holidays mean to us and share some exciting highlights from this month’s issue of Columbia City Lifestyle .
The holidays are a time for connection, gratitude and giving. It’s a season where we come together with friends and family to celebrate the warmth of our community. We cherish the moments spent with loved ones and the joy of giving back to those in need.
In this issue, we’re thrilled to showcase some wonderful stories that embody this spirit of community and celebration. First, explore the delightful Stocking Surprises from The Tin Roof Monogram & Gift—perfect for adding a touch of local charm to your holiday festivities.
We’re also proud to feature the inspiring story of Sydney Bliss, a talented, local high school senior, who recently took first place in the national SkillsUSA Baking and Pastry Arts high school competition. We admire her creativity and passion.
Additionally, we shine a spotlight on Nic Parks, a local resident making a significant impact through his generous contributions to our community. His commitment to giving back serves as a powerful reminder of the difference we can all make.
In the spirit of giving, we are inviting you to nominate someone who could use a helping hand in the coming year through our City Lifestyle Annual Giving Campaign. Your small act of kindness can make a world of difference in someone's life, and we are thrilled to be a part of this initiative!
As we celebrate this season, let’s come together to uplift each other and spread joy. We wish you and your loved ones a wonderful holiday season filled with love, laughter, and the warmth of community.
Happy Holidays!
Warmly,
LEANNE & SHEA SULLIVAN , PUBLISHER & PUBLICATION DIRECTOR @COLUMBIACITYLIFESTYLE
December 2024
PUBLISHER
Leanne Sullivan | leanne.sullivan@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Shea Sullivan | shea.sullivan@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Jordan Durham | jordan.durham@citylifestyle.com
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe
LAYOUT DESIGNER Lillian Gibbs
Leanne & Shea Sullivan COLUMBIA CITY LIFESTYLE PUBLISHERS
Rost Landscaping ROSTLANDSCAPING.COM
The Vue Beauty & Spa THEVUEBEAUTY.COM
C&C Construction CANDCHOMES.COM
Buchroeders Jewelers BRDIAMONDS.COM
Prime IV Hydration and Wellness PRIMEIVHYDRATION.COM
Sarah Jane Photography SJANEPHOTOGRAPHY.COM
Simmons Bank SIMMONSBANK.COM
BMW of Columbia, Missouri RUSTYDREWING.COM
Mercedes-Benz of Columbia RUSTYDREWING.COM
Lumia Med Spa SPALUMIA.COM/TREATMENTS
Blooms and Wishes BLOOMSANDWISHESFLOWERS.COM
TrueSon Exteriors & Interiors TRUESONEXTERIORS.COM
The Blufftop at Rocheport MISSOURIWINE.COM
Iron Gate Real Estate IGREALESTATE.COM
The Strand Salon & Spa THESTRANDSALONANDSPA.COM
The Tin Roof Monogram & Gift THETINROOFGIFT.COM
Le Bao Asian Eatery LEBAOEATERY.COM
Great Southern Bank GREATSOUTHERNBANK.COM
Find-A-Sitter FINDASITTER.NET
TigerTown Home Improvement TIGERTOWNHOMEIMPROVEMENT.COM
DryBar DRYBAR.COM
The Senior Company THESENIORCO.COM
1-3: The University of Missouri’s 133rd Homecoming was held on Saturday, Oct. 19, starting with the Homecoming Parade at 8 a.m. and the football game against Auburn at 11 a.m. 4-5: The Missouri Chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention held its 10th annual Out of the Darkness Walk on Sunday, Oct. 27. With over 300 attendees, the walk included 11 local resource tables and raised $25,325 for the foundation. 6-7: BMW of Columbia unveiled the 2025 BMW X3 at an event held on Thursday, Oct. 24. Guests enjoyed an evening of giveaways, raffles, live music from pop violinist Joanna Metsker, food, and drinks.
Members of the ACA Business Club raised $1,000 for the David M. Strumpf Memorial Scholarship fund. David Strumpf tragically passed away in January. The intent is to grow the fund to a minimum of $25,000, allowing for a $500 to $1,000 scholarship to be made annually. The scholarship will go to a graduating Columbia Area Career Center student intending to pursue a career in engineering, electronics, robotics, or a related field.
From Oct. 8-10, hundreds of attendees and small business owners gathered for the second annual Main Street Summit held in downtown Columbia. The summit allowed entrepreneurs, small business owners, students and others to network, hear speakers from around the country, ask questions, and attended exclusive tastings and business events.
The 2024 Kindness in Business honorees were announced in late October, recognizing mid-Missouri businesses that help their community's well-being. Access Arts, Heart of Missouri CASA, and Sleep in Heavenly Peace won for Kindness to Youth. Better Together Mental Health, Boys & Girls Club of Columbia, and Central Missouri Humane Society won for Kindness to Employees. Do Something Right Now, Exclusive Cuts, and Green Innovation & Enhancements won for Kindness to the Community.
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.
The Candy Factory thecandyfactoryonline.com | 573.443.8222
Alpine Shop alpineshop.com | 573.817.2955
McAdams’ Ltd. mcadamsltd.com | 573.442.3151
Bluestem Missouri Crafts https://bluestemcrafts.com | 573.442.0211
Rosebuds - Baby & Kid Boutique rosebudsbaby.com | 573.815.7673
Central Missouri Stop Human Trafficking Coalition stophumantraffickingmo.com
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention - Missouri Chapter afsp.org/columbiamo
Welcome Home welcomeveterans.org | 573.443.8001
Want to suggest a monthly pick?
DwellingWell Foundation linkedin.com/company/dwellingwell-foundation | 573.540.9589
Unchained Melodies unchainedmelodies.org | 573.814.8073
JOIN OUR MISSION TO SPREAD WARMTH AND COMPASSION BY NOMINATING SOMEONE WHO DESERVES A CHRISTMAS BLESSING
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way.”
As the Christmas season approaches, we’re reminded of the power of community and kindness. This year, through City Lifestyle’s nonprofit, The Kingdom Building Foundation, we will help people who may be struggling quietly without the support they need. But we need your help to find them.
Over the past three years, this campaign has grown into something truly beautiful, touching the lives of more than 150 families nationwide last year alone. Each year, we’ve seen firsthand how generosity can bring relief, hope, and a renewed sense of faith in others.
One person we had the opportunity to help was an 11-year-old boy diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. After he had to undergo chemotherapy and surgery to remove his eye, his doctors recommended a prosthetic one, but insurance wouldn’t cover the cost, calling it “cosmetic.” When we heard his story, we knew we had to help. Because of this campaign, he got his prosthetic eye and a piece of his childhood back with it.
Another was a wife and mother of two who fought a yearlong health battle and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Just days before Christmas, she underwent surgery but passed away due to complications. Before her surgery, she received one of our cards and, in tears, told us this gift gave her some peace, knowing her family would have help in the difficult times ahead. It wasn’t just about the financial support but knowing that someone cared.
These stories remind us why this campaign is so meaningful. It’s not just
about writing checks; it’s about telling people they aren’t forgotten and that someone is there to lend a hand. It’s about giving families a moment of relief when the world feels unbearable.
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”
Together with Matthew Perry, President, Steven adds that the gratitude from recipients was overwhelming, affirming this tradition’s importance. “We believe God has blessed our company with success,” Matthew adds, “so we want to be a blessing to others.”
We know many more people could use a little help this Christmas, and that’s where you come in. Do you know someone who could use a blessing? We want to hear about them.
To nominate someone, scan the QR code or follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the form in our bio. Nominations are open from November 27 to December 10, 2024. Let’s bring hope to those who need it most.
The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized. All entries will be read, and selections and the amount given to each recipient will be based on the severity of the need. For more information, visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.org
ARTICLE BY JORDAN DURHAM
PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARAH JANE SHORTHOSE
directions:
Create these delicious peppermint mocha rolls by local, award-winning baker Sydney Bliss
Sydney Bliss is a Rockbridge High School senior. Recently, she won the national SkillsUSA Baking and Pastry Arts Competition and was awarded a full-ride scholarship to the Culinary Institute of America in New York. Bliss enjoys working at Belly Market & Rotisserie, riding her motorcycle around town and baking.
Chocolate Roll Dough
• 3 ½ to 4 cups flour
• ½ cups cocoa powder
• 2 ¼ teaspoons yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon espresso powder or 1 tablespoon coffee
• 1 cup milk (about 95 degrees)
• ½ cup sugar
• ¼ cup butter, softened
• 1 egg
Chocolate Filling
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons cocoa
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ cup butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon coffee
• Mix together. If the filling doesn’t spread easily, add 1 teaspoon of coffee
Peppermint Cream Cheese Icing
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1 stick butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
• Pinch of salt
Step 1. In a bowl, mix together milk, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 3 minutes until yeast is bubbly. Add dry ingredients slowly. Mix until dough is smooth and elastic. Once smooth, round the dough into a ball. Grease a bowl, place the dough in and cover with plastic wrap. Let proof for 1 hour.
Step 2. Make filling and icing. Once the dough has doubled in size, turn out onto a floured surface, roll out to approximately a 16-by-18 inch rectangle. Spread the filling evenly. With the 16-inch side closest to you, tightly roll the dough until you have a 16-inch wide log. Cut 12 pieces, each 1 1/2 inch wide pieces. Place these in a greased baking dish and cover with plastic wrap; let rise 30-45 minutes. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Bake for 10-15 minutes.
Step 3. In a bowl, whip together the cream cheese and butter for 3 minutes on medium to high speed. Add in the extract and salt. Add the powdered sugar 1 cup at a time until fully combined, then whip at high speed for 1 minute. When dough is cool, smear icing over the tops and sprinkle with crushed peppermint.
LOCAL FLORIST SHARES DECOR TECHNIQUES TO EMBRACE THE SEASON
... what do you want to be reminded of every day in your space?
When decorating homes, Stephanie Wightman, owner of Blooms & Wishes, believes the house should tell the story. She tries not to move any items and looks to enhance what the home is already saying.
Recently, Wightman and her team helped decorate the home of Ben Lee and Ann Jolly, Columbia residents who create holiday cheer throughout many rooms with their decor. Upon entering, an open-floor plan greets guests. The living room moves seamlessly into the kitchen that makes way for the dining room. Wightman used this space to bring the beauty of nature inside, minus the winter cold.
Two areas Wightman immediately took note of were the shelving on either side of the fireplace and the red-and-white theme of their Christmas tree. A doorway leading from the living room to other areas of the home was one area she wanted to work with.
“I looked at where can we add and highlight what she has, then I thought through and was like, ‘Okay, what is trending right now in design, particularly floral design?’” Wightman says. “I wanted to highlight the curtain rod swags over the doorway. Something like greens are so simple for people to do in their space, and they’re inexpensive. People don’t think about how you can just go out in your yard, pull greens, put it together in a swag and make it work.”
Wightman found metal, gold hoops for wreaths to hang in windows behind the Christmas tree. Using Oasis Bind Wire, she worked eucalyptus, cedar, and Scotch pine into half of the hoop, leaving the rest exposed. This allowed the tree to make a statement of its own.
She reached out to Starr Pines Christmas Tree Farm for the greenery, as farms occasionally have scrap piles
from trees that are too small or grow crooked. These can be perfect for home arrangements. If you have an empty lantern or a similar item, you can use greens to liven up a countertop or fireplace mantel too.
In the Jollys’ home, Wightman used ribbon in certain designs to create a little flair. This is where Wightman suggests spending a bit more money, especially since ribbons are currently trending.
For traditional arrangements, such as the centerpiece of the dining room table or a coffee table, it’s important to create a look with layers. A good rule of thumb is to double the height and width of a vase with your arrangement. If you have a vase where the top is 6 inches in diameter, then you want the florals to expand outward by a foot. The same goes for the height of the vase to make it proportional.
If you are looking at a center arrangement as if you were seated at the table, an S or C curve at the horizon of the arrangement are trending shapes. An asymmetrical design where one side of the alignment is higher than the other can be accomplished by outlining the desired shape in greens and then coming back in with mass (focal flowers), line flowers and fill. It often works well to put your largest flower towards the bottom of the vase to pull your eyes down. In the cover picture, the red gerberas were positioned low as the focal point and the ranunculus was positioned around the gerberas.
Wightman likes to have fun with her florals. When discussing the greenery she used in the Jollys’ home, she states, “The bells of Ireland are funky, and I like to have a sense of humor with my arrangements, so that was me playing.”
Red flowers and greenery create a classic holiday look; however for those homeowners looking for a
CONTINUED >
... greens are so simple for people to do in their space, and they’re inexpensive. “ ”
less traditional color, yet still timeless, other options are available.
“I love whites and greens—to me, that’s just elegant,” Wightman says. You can also add in LED string lights for more of a statement. To bring in the slight blue hue that winter is often associated with, she recommends blue thistle to go with your greens.
If you’re hosting a holiday party, you can leave your guests a nice gift by finding a small item, such as a mini
champagne bottle, and creating an arrangement. A mix of eucalyptus, hypericum berries, and wax flowers to fill the design out can easily fit with your decor and leave your guests smiling for days.
“To me, it’s more important to think about, what do you want to be reminded of every day in your space? How do you want your space to feel?” Wightman says. “Flowers are pretty, and if you buy a flower because you like it, and you put it in a vase because you like it, it’s beautiful.”
ARTICLE BY JORDAN DURHAM | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARAH JANE SHORTHOSE
HOW NIC PARKS IS INSPIRING CHANGE THROUGH HIS COMMITMENT TO COMMUNITY
“"I don’t think I deserve this, so let me try to give it back in any way that I can."
Nic Parks wakes up each morning thankful for the life he has built. For him, this is even more reason to give back to the community. Many know Parks through his mid-Missouri businesses under Parks Amusements, LLC, including Level Up Entertainment, Lakeside Ashland, Shiloh Bar & Grill, Silverball Arcade & Bar, and The Pinball Company. He’s built giving back into these businesses, making it his mission to help others yearround, and he thinks others should, too.
“For me, personally, it’s kind of my way to find equity in the world,” Parks says. “I don’t think I deserve this, so let me try to give it back in any way that I can.”
Nic Parks is the owner of numerous mid-Missouri businesses, including The Pinball Company, Lakeside Ashland, Shiloh Bar & Grill, Silverball Arcade & Bar, and Level Up Entertainment. He is the president of Tigers on the Prowl. By continuing to understand community and charity needs, he hopes to give back to his community in any way he can.
He has worked with charities such as United Way, the Daydreams Foundation, MU Children’s Hospital, and many others. He is also president of Tigers on the Prowl, a nonprofit that raises thousands of dollars for different local organizations each year.
With his businesses and generosity, he hosts fundraisers, benefit concerts, bowling tournaments, movie nights and more at no cost to organizations. He also is able to raise money and present checks with large amounts that he hopes will continue to grow. Through his giving, Parks hopes other businesses work to help and understand the needs in the community as well.
“Just hearing the stories and seeing where your money is being put to work in the community, it’s just so impactful to your mindset.”
Drybar Columbia
303 N. Stadium Blvd, #105 Columbia, MO 65203 Book at drybarshops.com or the Drybar App Use code COMOCITY10
573.303.0008
@drybarshops_columbia
ARTICLE BY JORDAN DURHAM
PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARAH JANE SHORTHOSE
UNEXPECTED DELIGHTS TO FILL YOUR HOLIDAY STOCKINGS
If you’re looking for fun, new items to pack your stockings, look no further! The Tin Roof Monogram & Gift offers numerous options that are sure to bring smiles on the big day. Nicole Morris, owner of The Tin Roof, gives us her top choices.
Pop the bubbly! This is the perfect treat for your champagne and candy lovers. They’re so delicious and made with Dom Pérignon Vintage Champagne. — $9 to $22
This stylish and functional wristlet is made of soft silicone beads that slide on and off your hand comfortably. Plus, it will not slip off like other wristlets and stretches to fit any wrist. — $25
Add some holiday fun while supporting your favorite home state teams! Perfect for the office or home! — $16
These pens were done WRITE with bright colors and a lot of attitude. The gel ink matches the color and has a fine-point gel tip that will make these pens their new favorite. — $10 to $14
Favored by Italian barbers, this creamy, softening lather formula protects all skin types, cools the skin and gives a truly exceptional shave. — $6
The Tin Roof Monogram & Gift is a small gift boutique based in Columbia, Missouri. It strives to provide customers with one-of-a-kind gifts ranging from home décor and baby items to girlfriend gifts and something special for you, along with much more.
DIY Gift Wrapping That Stands Out During
ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON
‘Tis the season to get crafty, clever or characterized! Wellwrapped holiday packages create immediate enthusiasm and somehow seem to make gifts more meaningful. Whether going for shiny, vintage, colorful, rustic, playful or eco-friendly impressions, the following are some Do-It-Yourself gift-wrapping ideas to make the wrapping process even more satisfying. Simply applying jute twine to gifts provides a ‘less is more’ vibe.
ADD NATURAL TOUCHES TO CRAFT PAPER:
For gifts with a rustic, organic feel, use seasonal accents, such as sprigs, pine cones and cinnamon sticks, tied up with twine, encircling recycled paper for the wrapping.
FIRST INITIAL DECORATION:
In lieu of a gift tag, attach an oversized paper mâché letter of the recipient’s first initial to the top of the box. The letter then can serve as customized décor, too.
POLKA DOTS:
Wrap gifts in plain craft paper and then cut out big, multicolored polka dots to glue down. It’s hard not to smile at big, bright dots.
CARDBOARD BOX SNOWPERSON:
Wrap three or four boxes in white paper, with different gifts inside, and then stack them. Tape the boxes together,
tapering to the top. Glue buttons on the bottom ones, create a snowperson’s face on the top one, with carrot nose cut out of orange paper. Attach a real hat, if desired. Tie wider, festive bow around the snowperson’s ‘neck.’ Add a real corncob pipe for a bonus finishing touch, if preferred.
MINI TREE GIFT WRAPPING:
Pine needles and small tips of real tree branches make quick and easy mini Christmas trees that can be glued onto Christmas gifts. They will smell nice, too.
BOOK PAGE WRAPPING PAPER:
Repurpose old book pages by cutting out
shapes of dreidels, snowflakes, ornaments, candles or reindeer to paste on gifts.
DIY STAMP WRAPPING PAPER:
Wrap gifts in solid colors of paper. Secure ink stamps and an ink pad in a themed color(s), and stamp the paper as much or as little as desired.
UNBOXED:
Apply other types of containers, rather than boxes or bags, for gift wrapping; examples: canisters, pillow cases, baskets, fabric scraps, maps, glass containers, towels, blankets, scarves, Bento bags (also called triangle bags or origami bags).
e a t u r e d L i s t i n g s
is an independent real estate brokerage established in 2019 After nearly 12 years operating as one of the top international franchises, the switch to our own brand allowed us to keep our marketing budgets local-propelling our agent's careers and supporting our community + the small businesses that reside here With every new Iron Gate office that is opened, we strive to stay true to our mission, "National Service. Local Impact.". Through our diverse resources and multiple divisions, we are equipped to service any client on a national scale; never losing sight of our goal of impacting the local community through marketing dollars, events, + our Non-Profit IG|Gives. Our clients are consistently treated to the Iron Gate Experience that includes in-house professional photography, 360° virtual tours, drone footage, premium physical and digital marketing materials, + a dependable team of full-time industry experts backing their Agents every step of the way.
Raised in central Missouri with strong, down-to-earth values, Wanda Bressman moved to Columbia nearly 25 years ago with her late husband, Don, to raise their two sons near family
Her passion for working with people and helping them start new chapters led her to a career in real estate, which she began during a challenging market downturn She quickly became a multi-million dollar producer and has since earned several awards for excellence in the industry A graduate of the Floyd Wickman Master Sales Society program, Wanda is deeply committed to delivering exceptional client service
With expertise in Columbia, Hallsville, Harrisburg, Ashland, Centralia, Jefferson City, Holt Summit and Millersburg, she has guided clients through a variety of life transitions from first-time homebuyers to longtime homeowners downsizing after decades Dedicated to providing personalized support, Wanda is honored to be by her clients’ side at every step, whether they are buying, selling, or relocating
nd Maya Adams are a powerhouse mother-daughter dicated to making your real estate journey successful and e Combining Gayla’s years of experience and local market ge with Maya’s fresh insights, business savvy, and ng expertise, they bring a unique and seamless approach service Gayla is known for her extensive expertise and ment to client satisfaction Gayla has a talent for ng complex transactions with ease Her friendly approach dication to building lasting relationships make her a advisor in the community Maya adds a modern touch, eye for design and a deep understanding of market Her excellent communication skills and strong work ethic clients feel informed and supported at every step , Gayla and Maya are dedicated to treating each client y, making your real estate goals their top priority Choose ms Family Real Estate Team for a professional, caring, and lient-focused experience from start to finish
We understand the importance of personal one-on-one assistance, ready whenever you need it. Our experienced team can o er smart, a ordable options to help you reach your financial goals and be with you at every step.
Understanding what really matters. Find your support team at GreatSouthernBank.com
DECEMBER 5TH
The Village of Cherry Hill | 5:00 PM
Experience one of the most anticipated events of the year with the lighting of the Magic Tree. The event brings food, music, fun and beautiful lights to begin or continue your festive holiday season.
DECEMBER 5TH
Rusty Drewing Automotive | 5:00 PM
Join in this popular event where BMW of Columbia partners with Macadoodles for an evening of wine, whiskey, food and good company. The event includes a live auction to raise money for local organizations. Invitations for the event are available in-store or at Macadoodles.
DECEMBER 6TH
Columbia | 1:00 PM
Tour four new homes during this year’s Holiday Home Tour, coordinated by The Missouri Symphony League and presented by Mercedes-Benz of Columbia. These homes, including the new Ronald McDonald House of Mid-Missouri, will display their marvelous interior and exterior decorations for the holidays.
CONTINUED
DECEMBER 6TH
Living Windows Festival
The District | 6:00 PM
See businesses come to life during the annual Living Windows Festival! Live performances, holiday decor, open houses, visits with Santa, free horsedrawn carriage rides and much more will be available for all to enjoy.
DECEMBER 8TH
Spice for Shelter Chili Cook Off
Bur Oak Brewing Company | 11:00 AM
Spice up your winter season with the Spice for Shelter Chili Cook Off, benefitting the DwellingWell Foundation. Whether you’re looking to showcase your seasonings as a chili connoisseur, amateur chef, or simply love tasting delicious creations, this event will guarantee a savory, good time.
DECEMBER 9TH
Christmas Ballet
Jesse Auditorium | 7:00 PM
Whisk yourself away to a magical night at the renowned Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet as Ukrainian principal artists bring the beauty of classical music and this story to life.
HOLISTIC, COMPASSIONATE CARE THAT LEAVES YOU FEELING REFRESHED AND RADIANT.
Botox / Microneedling / Filler / Peels
Lasers / Lash & Brows / Facials