Darien New Canaan, CT December 2024 by City Lifestyle

A Season of Giving and Local Joy

The holiday season is here, and with it comes the excitement of celebration, gratitude, and community. In this special issue, we’ve curated everything you need to embrace the magic of the holidays right here in Darien and New Canaan.

Our holiday gift guide is back, and this year, @ blissandbellinis, Anna Barnes has handpicked the best local finds to help you check off everyone on your list. From thoughtful stocking stuffers to unfor gettable main gifts, there’s something for everyone while supporting the incredible businesses in our community. @styleelyst, Ashley Cannon also shares her must-have style picks to help you look your best for every holiday occasion.

We’re thrilled to introduce you to the newest gem in New Canaan, The Spice & Tea Exchange, where you can find the perfect culinary delights to elevate your holiday gatherings. Plus, Megan Schinella brings you the ultimate guide to the best places for holiday fun, so you and your family can create unforgettable memories together.

As we wrap up the year, we’re also launching our annual holiday giving campaign. It’s a special time for us to use our platform to give back to the community and contribute to making lives happier, healthier, and better. And remember, this season, the greatest gift you can give is to shop small and support our local businesses. Amazon isn’t sponsoring our kids’ little leagues or community initiatives—our local shops are. When you shop small, you’re pouring into the heart of our towns, and that comes back tenfold.

From all of us at Darien & New Canaan Lifestyle, we wish you a joyful and giving holiday season!

December 2024

PUBLISHER

Laura Sabia | laura.sabia@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Kristin Burnell | kristin.burnell@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Emma Parente | emma.parente@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Sarah Bamford, Anna Barnes, Julia Braatz, Ashley Cannon

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Abby Cole

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman

LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman

Proverbs 3:5-6

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1-4: Darien Chamber’s Oktoberfest 2024 1: Anne Fox, Kesti Aysseh, David Wagner, Kris Barker, Brian Ceglarski 2: Teresa Jandziol, Dave O’Mara, Justine O’Mara, Dorinda Bonanno, Kris Barker, David Wagner, Steve Hardy, Andrew Bonanno 3: Lisa Washburn, Arinne Schuck, Susanne Miller, John Miller 4: Kris Barker, Hannah Brady, David Wagner, Kat O’Hara 5-10: In September, Person to Person (P2P) held an event at their Stamford warehouse to honor the donors who made both the first and second mobile food pantries possible. This expansion was driven by the vision and support of former P2P Board Chair Mike Riccardi, whose leadership played a pivotal role in bringing it to life. The second mobile pantry was made possible through a generous $240,000 grant from the Steven & Alexandra Cohen Foundation. 5: Michael Riccardi and Nancy Coughlin 7: Tamara Francis and Shana Green

MEG CANELLA

DRS. ORDERS Baking CO. Holiday Boxes

The Holiday Box from DRs.ORDERS Baking CO. is here! The perfect gift for the season wrapped in premium elegance. Inside, discover a delicious assortment of one dozen freshly baked cookies, featuring classics like Original Chocolate Chip, warm Ginger Molasses, and the ever-favorite Snickerdoodle, along with a special Seasonal Shortbread. Each box includes a personalized note, offering a heartwarming, unique touch that makes every holiday celebration a little more special and memorable.

ARTICLE BY ANNA BARNES

Holiday Gift Guides

THOUGHTFUL GIFTS TO DELIGHT YOUR LOVED ONES AND MAKE THEIR HOLIDAY CELEBRATIONS TRULY MEMORABLE!

FOR HIM

Looking for the perfect gift for the man in your life? Whether he's tech-savvy, a foodie, or enjoys a bit of luxury, this curated gift guide has something that will make his holiday season bright.

FOR HER

This guide for her is all about thoughtful, stylish pieces that blend practicality and indulgence. From sleek travel essentials and cozy cashmere to tech-driven beauty treatments and signature fragrances, each item is designed to make her feel pampered and add a touch of sophistication to her everyday life. 1. Swanilda Cashmere Sweater | hanianewyork.com | 2. The (Nautically) Charmed Necklace | whaletailweaving.com | 3. Rhone DreamGlow Mock Neck and Jogger | rhone.com | 4. Omnilux Contour Face Mask | omniluxled.com | 5. Tessare Woven Suede Handbag | jmclaughlin.com | 6. Le Labo Santal 33 | lelabofragrances.com 7. Krewe Charlotte Frames | krewe.com | 8. Cuzen Matcha Maker Starter Kit | cuzenmatcha.com | 9. Landon Large Neoprene Carryall Bag | dagnedover.com

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THE STYLE LIST BY @STYLEELYST

THE HOLIDAY GIFT EDIT

As the holiday season approaches, the quest for thoughtful gifts begins. My carefully curated guide offers a selection of exceptional presents, each chosen to delight and impress even the most discerning recipient. From the stylish to the practical, the offerings cater to a variety of tastes and budgets, ensuring that every loved one receives a truly memorable gift.

MIU MIU

Featuring the Aventure Leather Tote Bag, $3,800. This stunning oak brown, nappa lambskin leather bag from MIU MIU is luxurious and timeless, making it a versatile accessory that can be dressed up or down. The adjustable strap allows for comfortable carrying, whether it’s for a day out or a special occasion.

miumiu.com | @miumiu

WITH CLARITY | BORN IN NYC. ELEVATE YOUR EVERYDAY.

Featuring the 1 Carat Kite Chamfered Bezel Set Solitaire Necklace in 14K Yellow Gold, $1,150. A classic staple, reinterpreted with a touch of modernity, creating a piece that is both familiar and fresh. Something she will cherish for years to come.

withclarity.com | @withclarityofficial

HOLIDAY

ADINA REYTER | EVERYDAY JOYFUL + MEANINGFUL FINE JEWELRY.

Featuring the Bead Party Diamond 3s Company Necklace in 14K Yellow Gold, $718. Dainty yet meaningful. This little treasure can be worn daily as a personal reminder. For me, it symbolizes my little family - a pavé encrusted bead representing my daughter, husband and myself.

adinareyter.com | @adinareyter

ARTICLE BY ASHLEY CANNON PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRAND IMAGERY & ASHLEY CANNON

GRAPHIC IMAGE | NY MANUFACTURER OF LUXURY LEATHER GOODS.

Featuring the Large Bound Album in Black Pebble Grain Leather, $225. Elevate your beloved memories with their exquisite albums. Crafted with Italian paper and bound in the finest leathers, these albums offer unparalleled preservation and presentation for your most precious keepsakes. Experience the beauty and durability of a lifetime.

Add an embossed or gold foil personalization for $12.

graphicimage.com | @graphicimageny

U BEAUTY | PRECISION SKINCARE FOR TRANSFORMATIVE RESULTS.

Featuring The SIREN Set, $748. U BEAUTY has launched several holiday sets, so now is the perfect time to try this outstanding line for yourself or give a luxe sampling of their collection to the beauty-lover in your life. I promise, they will thank you for the gift of glowing skin. Not only is this skincare phenomenal, but it is cruelty-free and made in Italy.

The set includes: Six U Beauty icons come together for the consummate holiday box. Each essential hero uniquely formulated with signature SIREN Capsule Technology and designed to work synergistically: the paramount SIREN Set features the Resurfacing Compound 50ml, SUPER Hydrator 50ml, SUPER Intensive Face Oil 30ml, BARRIER Bioactive Treatment 50ml, RETURN Eye Concentrate 15ml, and PLASMA Lip Compound in Universal 15ml for your ultimate comprehensive skincare ritual.

ubeauty.com | @ubeauty

KHAITE | DESIGN & FASHION

Featuring the Sue Jacket, $3,400. Step back in time with this iconic leather jacket. Inspired by the fashion-forward era of the 60s and 70s, this piece is a true work of art. The rounded volumes and extended sleeves create a striking silhouette, while the rich oxblood hue adds a touch of luxury. A great gift, as leather jackets can be dressed up or down, making them suitable for a wide range of occasions. Pair it with jeans and a T-shirt for a casual look, or dress it up with a tailored suit or dress for more formal occasions.

khaite.com | @khaite_ny

MARNI | WEAVING, PAINTING & MENDING THE EPHEMERAL SINCE 1994.

Featuring Panelled Straight-Leg Trousers, $1,250. These luxurious paneled straight-leg trousers, meticulously crafted in Italy, offer a blend of timeless style and modern sophistication. The rich chocolate brown hue adds a touch of warmth and versatility, making them a perfect addition to any woman’s wardrobe.

marni.com | @marni

JL ROCKS | EVERYDAY ARMOR FOR JEWELRY LOVERS WHO SPOIL THEMSELVES.

Featuring the Triangle Dome Drop Earrings, $425. A unique yet classic statement piece that’s perfect for the modern woman. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, these earrings feature a striking triangular shape that effortlessly complements any outfit.

jlrocks.com | @jlrocksjewelry | Local Locations in Greenwich & Westport

MANOLO BLAHNIK

Featuring the 50mm Callamu mules, $875. Crafted in Italy from luxurious black leather with a patent finish, these mules offer a touch of glamor and sophistication. The 50mm low sculpted heel provides a comfortable and stylish lift, while the crossover strap at the toe adds a unique and eye-catching detail. The almond open toe and branded leather insole ensure both comfort and style, making these mules a multi-faceted addition to any wardrobe.

manoloblahnik.com | @manoloblahnik

VERONICA BEARD | LOOK GOOD. FEEL GOOD. DO GOOD.

Featuring the Flores Bead-Trim Maxi Dress, $998. Looking for a dress that’s both effortlessly elegant and festive? Look no further than the Flores Maxi Dress. This minimalist masterpiece features a touch of sparkle with rhinestones and beads delicately hand-applied along the neckline, armholes, and waist. The fluid, body-skimming silhouette creates a timeless and sophisticated look that’s perfect for any holiday celebration.

Pair the Flores with silver stilettos and a minaudière for a glamorous night out. This dress is sure to make you feel confident and stunning all season long. veronicabeard.com | @veronicabeard

To see my fashion, beauty and lifestyle selects on the daily, be sure to head to styleelyst.com and follow me on social @styleelyst | Keep your eyes peeled for The Style List in the 2025 issues of Greenwich Lifestyle Magazine, Darien New Canaan Lifestyle Magazine and Upper Westchester Lifestyle Magazine.

In addition to being a style columnist, Ashley Cannon is a fashion/lifestyle influencer (@styleelyst/styleelyst.com), mother and marketing specialist. She resides in Fairfield County, CT with her husband, daughter and yellow lab.

GIFT EDIT

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A Culinary ENTERPRISE

THE SPICE & TEA EXCHANGE

ARTICLE BY JULIA BRAATZ PHOTOGRAPHY BY ABBY COLE

The Spice & Tea Exchange in New Canaan, Connecticut is a culinary gift shop with a large arrangement of teas, spices, seasonings, sugars, salts, gifts, and more. There’s 125 exclusive products of fresh spices and fragrant teas, curated by both their in-house Spice Masters and within the company franchise.

The company specializes in hospitality and quality, as team members are eager to share new and exciting flavors with

guests. Co-owner Pam Robinson said, “For over 15 years, our company’s mission has been to connect people with exceptional ingredients, adding a sprinkle of adventure to home cooking. At the heart of The Spice & Tea Exchange lies a deep respect for our guests and the quality of products that we offer.”

THE IN-HOUSE EXPERIENCE

Part of The Spice & Tea Exchange experience includes visiting their blending counter, where customers can experience the sights

and aromas of new flavors being created before their eyes by their very own blending masters. Ingredients that can be blended include varieties of flavored sugars and monk fruit, flavored honeys, smoked and infused salts, olive oils straight from Italy, and maple syrups created in collaboration with Runamok. You can also check out their Tea Bar, where tea can be enjoyed hot or iced.

FEATURED PRODUCTS

Featured Teas include their best-selling tea throughout their franchise; the Mango

Pam and John, owners and operators

Tango Herbal Tea. It’s a non-caffeinated tea that tastes like a tropical island with its fruity, naturally sweetened flavor. Other features include their Pomegranate Green Tea, which not only has a great flavor but also includes the numerous health benefits of both green tea and hibiscus.

Other featured products include their Black Truffle Sea Salt, which pairs well on foods such as potatoes or popcorn, and their Tuscany seasoning, which could go in tomato sauce, chicken, or olive oil bread dip to name a few.

EXCLUSIVE GIFT OPTIONS

The Spice & Tea Exchange has something for every type of cook from novices to seasoned chefs. For the baker, they have three different types of cinnamon and their brand new feature product; Vanilla Paste. For tea lovers, there are over 70 loose-leaf teas. For the person who has everything, there’s a range of culinary sets, recipe bundles that range from cocktails to desserts, their best-selling 9-tin teas or custom blend sets, flavored maple syrups made in collaboration with Runamok, flavored honeys, olive oils from Italy, and exclusive candles that are topped with their loose-leaf teas and spices.

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Making Spirits

JOIN OUR MISSION TO SPREAD WARMTH AND COMPASSION BY NOMINATING SOMEONE WHO DESERVES A CHRISTMAS BLESSING

“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way.”

As the Christmas season approaches, we’re reminded of the power of community and kindness. This year, through City Lifestyle’s nonprofit, The Kingdom Building Foundation, we will help people who may be struggling quietly without the support they need. But we need your help to find them.

Over the past three years, this campaign has grown into something truly beautiful, touching the lives of more than 150 families nationwide last year alone. Each year, we’ve seen firsthand how generosity can bring relief, hope, and a renewed sense of faith in others.

One person we had the opportunity to help was an 11-year-old boy diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. After he had to undergo chemotherapy and surgery to remove his eye, his doctors recommended a prosthetic one, but insurance wouldn’t cover the cost, calling it “cosmetic.” When we heard his story, we knew we had to help. Because of this campaign, he got his prosthetic eye and a piece of his childhood back with it.

Another was a wife and mother of two who fought a yearlong health battle and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Just days before Christmas, she underwent surgery but passed away due to complications. Before her surgery, she received one of our cards and, in tears, told us this gift gave her some peace, knowing her family would have help in the difficult times ahead. It wasn’t just about the financial support but knowing that someone cared.

These stories remind us why this campaign is so meaningful. It’s not just

about writing checks; it’s about telling people they aren’t forgotten and that someone is there to lend a hand. It’s about giving families a moment of relief when the world feels unbearable.

“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”

Together with Matthew Perry, President, Steven adds that the gratitude from recipients was overwhelming, affirming this tradition’s importance. “We believe God has blessed our company with success,” Matthew adds, “so we want to be a blessing to others.”

We know many more people could use a little help this Christmas, and that’s where you come in. Do you know someone who could use a blessing? We want to hear about them.

To nominate someone, scan the QR code or follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the form in our bio. Nominations are open from November 27 to December 10, 2024. Let’s bring hope to those who need it most.

The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized. All entries will be read, and selections and the amount given to each recipient will be based on the severity of the need. For more information, visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.com

• Installing indoor and outdoor lighting for over 55 years.

• Mark Mosello is a leading design expert in the field.

•

ARTICLE BY MEGAN SCHINELLA

local experiences

THE BEST PLACES TO GO AND THINGS TO DO IN OUR AREA

'Tis the season for tinsel, twinkling lights, and festive cheer! Explore Megan's top picks for local holiday happenings and experience the joy and excitement around town. From dazzling decorations to lively holiday events, there’s something for everyone to enjoy and celebrate the magic of the holiday season with loved ones.

The Holiday Wish Express | The largest indoor Christmas experience in the Northeast. Enjoy a magical winter wonderland full of joy, wonder, and excitement. Stamford CT.

The Nutcracker | See New England Academy of Dance's December 13th-15th performances, featuring the Norwalk Symphony Orchestra, wonderland of toy soldiers, dancing snowflakes, and the land of the Sweets. New Canaan CT.

Jones Family Farms | Come hike 200 acres of trees in search of the perfect centerpiece for your holiday celebrations! Shelton CT.

Santa's Runway | A holiday light display that raises money for local social services. See over 15,000 lights line Sterling Road. Trumbull CT.

Stew Leonard’s | Visit Santa Claus with your letters! Free photos, naughty or nice! Norwalk CT.

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