HOLIDAY Gift-Giving Issue
STYLE + BEAUTY
DECK & DAZZLE: FIND TIMELESS GIFTS AT BEYOND MEASURE JEWELRY
Bar r ett School
play. learn. thrive.
DISCOVER THE FUTURE OF EDUCATION at The Barrett School at Destin, where innovation meets personalized learning to unlock each child's potential. Our unique curriculum is rooted in the principles of STEAM education—Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics—ensuring a holistic approach to learning. We pride ourselves on offering cutting-edge resources, such as advanced robotics, to inspire creativity and critical thinking in our students. With smaller class sizes, we provide individualized attention that caters to diverse learning styles, ensuring that every child can thrive. At The Barrett School, education is not just about academics; it's about preparing students for the future by integrating career-focused learning into their educational journey, empowering them to succeed in an ever-evolving world.
www.thebarrettschoolfl.org // (850) 353-2153
DecemberGiving Issue
The holidays are here and as the spirit of the season is among us, we often try to replicate what made the season feel so magical to us in our youth. The traditions we set for our own families often mirror some of what we experienced as a child whether it is the smells, the sounds, the lights, the holiday activities or a combination of it all that reflect that best.
This month, we wanted to highlight the magic of the season and what our city has to offer that helps spread holiday cheer. We invite you in to a conversation with Ashleigh Woolly of Beyond Measure Jewelers as she details what is trending in the dazzling world of jewelry this season. We also took a trip down memory lane with Francesca of La Famiglia Restaurant as she shared Christmas traditions and even a recipe from her Italian family. We caught up with Jessie Orbovich of Slay Rose' as she shared some delicious wine cocktails that will sure to be a hit at any holiday party. And, we compiled a Shop Local gift guide to make your shopping easier and as a bonus, it also supports our local businesses!
While this season can be beautiful for some, it can be painful and lonely for others, especially those who have recently lost a loved one. In the true spirit of the season, let’s take care of those in our community that need assistance or who are alone. My hope for you this season is that you feel love and peace and that we all remember to take care of each other extending grace, empathy and love.
Happy Holidays!
CARMEN IONASCU, PUBLISHER
December 2024
PUBLISHER
Carmen Ionascu | Carmen.Ionascu@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Josh Foster | josh.foster@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Savannah Vasquez
Savannah.vasquez@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Melanie Gray | melanie.gray@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Galina Wells Photography, Robert Young of Forever Young Images, Shanna Perret of Davista Photography
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto
LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray
3:5-6
Over 100
Restaurants across the Panhandle trust us for their Point-of-Sale needs!
inside the issue
HOLIDAY MEALS READY TO GO
Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s
Your all-natural, fresh, Joyce Farms turkey will be brined and ready to cook. Choose from a selection of delectable chef made sides ready to heat and serve. Shop online, stop by the market or give us a call. All turkeys and sides are limited and first come first serve so place your order now. Your holiday meal will be ready for pick up the day before each holiday.
DECK and DAZZLE
Find Timeless Gifts at Beyond Measure Jewelers
ARTICLE BY SAVANNAH VASQUEZ PHOTOGRAPHY BY GALINA WELLS PHOTOGRAPHY
It’s time to deck the halls so why not deck a loved one in extraordinary extravagance with a timeless piece from Beyond Measure Jewelers? Owner Ashleigh Woolly sat down with us to give us some tips on jewelry trends and the best gift you will be shopping for this year.
DCL: WHAT GEMS ARE TRENDING RIGHT NOW?
Ashleigh: I would say this year the trend seems to be diamonds and 18-carat gold. We have also been noticing a lot more yellow gold than we have in the past years style-wise. Diamonds are always our best sellers and then, since we are coastal, we sell a lot of blue or green diamonds such as sapphire, emerald, aquamarine and tourmaline are very popular.
DCL: WHAT JEWELRY PIECES ARE MOST POPULAR THIS SEASON?
Ashleigh: A little bit of everything really, rings, necklaces, stackable bracelets, earrings, tennis bracelets and diamond studs are always a popular Christmas gift.
DCL: WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO SHOP FOR A LOVED ONE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON?
Ashleigh: It’s really popular for ladies to come in and make a wish list and we put it in the computer under their name and their loved ones can come in and pick from their wishlist. We specialize in custom design, but the cut-off to get your piece in time for Christmas is December 9th.
DCL: WHAT IS THE MOST POPULAR RING CUT RIGHT NOW?
Ashleigh: For engagement rings, the trend is yellow gold and an oval cut diamond is the most popular. The holidays are a really popular time to propose so we do a lot of engagement rings during this time and a lot of ladies get a ring upgrade as well to a bigger better one.
DCL: WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE PIECES IN THE STORE RIGHT NOW?
Ashleigh: We have a bracelet that I adore that is a diamond bangle, and there are always some special pieces in our estate showcase. The consignment pieces are very popular and are full of timeless, pre-owned and vintage jewelry.
The holidays are the perfect time for engagements and Beyond Measure Jewelers offers ring customization from start to finish. Pictured above is a white gold wedding set featuring a 1.5 carat fancy yellow diamond, cushion cut. The diamond is surrounded by a double halo of round brilliant diamonds. The wedding band is an intricate design of round brilliant diamonds mirrored on each side of the engagement ring.
Dress by Simply Elegant Bridal ARTIST’S
Rose Cape made By Eve The Wrapper
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.org
ARTICLE BY SAVANNAH VASQUEZ | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
DCL’s Shop Local Round Up
CHECK OUT OUR FAVORITE LOCAL BUSINESSES FOR LAST MINUTE GIFTS
John Candor, established in 2020 by an Army veteran and a former law enforcement officer, helps men put their best foot forward. Their handcrafted leather shoes, belts and wallets are ethically produced and sold.
At Pink Coyote Dessert Company, dessert is an experience! Every scoop of ice cream and baked treat is sourced with the highest quality ingredients from local, small batch makers.
Salty Paws Boutique
Salty Paws is your one-stop-shop for gourmet treats and high quality accessories for your fur babies. Find a holiday treat for your pet or a gift for the “pawrents.”
Kiss The Sky Boutique
If you have a fashionista on your shopping list, look no further than Kiss The Sky Boutique. Find an array of unique, fashionable clothing and quality accessories as well as consignment item.
Be the host with the most this holiday season with Charcuterie By Shelli. Shelli chooses the best ingredients and presents them in an artistic way that will always wow your guests.
John Candor
Charcuterie By Shelli
Pink Coyote
Pink N Blue Avenue
Shopping for the youngest members of your family this Christmas? Pink N Blue Avenue offers quality children’s clothing and European-inspired toys, books and accessories, perfect for the little ones in your life.
Hydration
Need an immunity booster or a wellness treatment? Prioritize your health and those of your loved ones with a treatment at Prime-IV Hydration. Choose an immune system recovery package or customize a care plan.
Market 30A
Let Market 30A take care of the holiday fixings. In addition to an impressive wine selection, fresh Gulf seafood and quality meats and cheeses, the market also offers holiday meals ready to serve.
Naples Soap Company
Naples Soap Company, founded by Deanna Wallin, a former nurse, provides skin care, hair care and self care items that are made to pamper the skin and soothe the soul.
Looking for a wellness gift for a health-conscious friend? Ain’t Life Cool offers services such as cryotherapy, red light therapy, Himalayan salt cave, compression therapy, hot or cold compression therapy and hydromassage.
Ain’t Life Cool Prime-IV
Felicia Cassandra Felicia Cassandra Felicia Cassandra
Contact info Contact info Contact info 278-695-3391 278-695-3391 278-695-3391
Bridal Make up Bridal Make up Bridal Make up Natural or Glam Natural or Glam Natural Glam
Make up Lessons -group & individual
Make up Lessons -group & individual
Email: BeachyGlamBrides@gmail.com
Email: BeachyGlamBrides@gmail.com
Email: BeachyGlamBrides@gmail.com
Make up Lessons -group & individual Sun Recovery Recovery Sun Recovery Skin Care Skin Care Skin Care
ARTICLE BY SAVANNAH VASQUEZ | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHANNA PERRET OF DAVISTA PHOTOGRAPHY
Sleigh Rosé
Eat, Drink and Be Merry with Slay Rosé
Tis the season for holiday parties and get-togethers! So why not add some local flavor to your next gathering with Miramar Beach local, Jessie Orbovich's wine, Slay Rosé?
"Slay Rosé is a 100-percent pinot noir rosé which is produced using the French saignée method," Jessie said. "This creates a drier, bolder rosé with a very well balanced acidity to sweetness, that makes it extremely versatile when pairing with foods."
When asked what holiday foods pair best with Slay Rosé, Jessie said her favorite way to pair it is with her favorite party dress. But as a culinary artist herself, Jessie shared some amazing holiday food pairings as well.
"Slay Rosé really pairs well with so many foods, but my favorites at the holidays are savory appetizers, cheese and meat boards, roasted turkey, hearty stews, cheese and fruit dips and of course my Slay Rosé Christmas Cocktail for pre-game or hosting holiday parties," Jessie said.
Going into her fourth year with Slay Rosé, Jessie said her focus is to expand her footprint with distribution and to expand her gratitude towards those who have made this dream job a reality.
"Destin has been an awesome place to grow my business, and of course I wouldn't be here without my amazing winery partner, Nicole Abiouness with Abiouness Wines," Jessie said. "We now offer nationwide shipping on our website so everyone can enjoy Slay Rosé."
Ready to kick off your holiday party in style? Try these holiday themed wine cocktails to wow your guests with delicious taste to toast the season!
Don't forget to share how you Slay Rosé using some of these fun hashtags! #roseforchristmas #holidaycocktails #christmasdrink #sleighallday
SLAY ROSÉ CHRISTMAS COCKTAIL
• 2 Tablespoons Pomegranate Juice
• 1 ounce pomegranate or cranberry liquor
• 3/4 cup SLAY ROSÉ
• 1 ounce citrus soda sparkling water
• pomegranate pearls, fresh mint to garnish
DIRECTIONS
Add ice to a large wine glass. Pour and layer ingredients in the recipe order. Stir, then garnish....drink and be merry! Best served with straw.
SLAY ROSÉ HOLIDAY SANGRIA
• 1 750ml Sparkling Apple Cider
• 1 Bottle SLAY ROSÉ
• 1 cup of raspberry or tart cherry cordial
• 1 Granny Smith apple, thinly sliced
• 1 Honeycrisp apple thinly sliced
• 1 1/2 cup whole cranberries
• ice cubes
DIRECTIONS
Combine all ingredients into a large pitcher. Stir with a long handled spoon for two minutes. Pour over ice into serving glasses. Garnish with fresh apple slices and whole cranberries.
CONTINUED >
“Slay Rosé pairs best with my
favorite holiday party dress!”
FOOD, Festivities AND La Famiglia
ARTICLE BY SAVANNAH VASQUEZ PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROBERT YOUNG, FOREVER YOUNG IMAGES
Christmas looks different for every family, but for the Rella family of La Famiglia Restaurant in Destin, Christmas is the embodiment of their entire outlook on life; food, festivities and above all, family.
"I love Christmas because you can get together like no other time of year," said Francesca Rella. "In Italy, we play a lot of games together and eat and eat and eat, that’s what we do. When I was younger we would spend three days without leaving my grandparent's house. My grandfather used to dress up and be Santa. Now, as an adult, I really love to see kids enjoy it, to see them happy, open presents and just all be together; that is my favorite part."
As only the second Christmas without the family patriarch, the late Pino Rella, Francesca said her and her sisters, Michela and Valentina, have bonded closely with their mother, Stefania. Christmas feels a bit different now, but Francesca said it still means time with family, copious amounts of food and long lazy days of festivities.
“I LOVE Christmas BECAUSE YOU CAN Get TOGETHER LIKE NO OTHER TIME OF YEAR. In Italy, WE PLAY A LOT OF GAMES Together And Eat AND EAT AND EAT, THAT’S WHAT We DO.” SAID Francesca .
From left Michela, Francesca, Stefania and Valentina Rella.
“All three sisters and both brothersin-law and their families all come for Christmas. We all go to my mom’s house and invite friends that don’t have a family here and we always end up with 40-50 people," Francesca said. "Normally my mom starts cooking two days before Christmas and we have seven or eight courses of food there, that’s the Italian way.”
For those who don’t get a Rella family invite, or don't have an Italian mom on hand, Francesca said La Famiglia Restaurant offers a plethora of dishes to order and catering for holiday specials.
“Call us to set up catering because we like to talk to each customer to customize for their group size and dish selection,” Francesca said. “Our Christmas catering is all first-come-first-served so make sure you call us as soon as you can to order.”
When it comes to her favorite Italian Christmas foods, Francesca said traditional desserts are the best, hands down.
“We are from Rome, so for us, our traditional dessert is biscotti that we make
from scratch,” Francesca said. “Tozzetti is the one that we make. We make them and dip them in the wine and eat it, that is one of the most traditional Italian things we make. We actually sell them by the pound.”
Ready to get a taste of an Italian Christmas? La Famiglia Restaurant is hosting a two day Christmas celebration on the evenings of December 20 and 21.
“We are going to have Josh Sirten and his Frank Sinatra tribute show and a special appearance of Santa Claus,” Francesca said. "We have this event every year, it's just a little taste of Italy for our Destin family."
BISCOTTI NATALIZI
Ingredients:
• 2 egg yolks
• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 2 tsp. vanilla
• 2 1/4 cup all purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp. baking powder
• pinch of salt
• 2/3 cup sugar
• gel food coloring
• candied cherries
• shaved chocolate chips
Method:
1. Preheat oven to 320F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Mix butter and sugar. Add the egg yolks and vanilla. Beat well! In another bowl sift 1 3/4 cups of flour, baking powder and salt to combine. While the mixer is on low, gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture.
2. Add as much of the remaining 1/2 cup of flour to the dough to form a firm but sticky dough. Do not over mix! If the dough is forming a ball, add a few tablespoons of milk. Add gel food coloring now if you like.
3. Using a piping bag, form a line or an “S” shape, or however you would like your cookies shaped.
4. Add candied cherries in the middle of your cookies or chocolate chips before baking. Bake for 10-12 minutes. Cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before moving them to the cooling rack.
5. Store in an airtight container in a cool place. Enjoy these traditional Italian holiday treats. Our family votes them the best cookies ever!
Biscotti Tozzetti
Biscotti Natalizi
