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Meet your Colorado mortgage team.
The holiday season gifts us all with a moment to pause, reflect, and look ahead. December is more than just the close of a calendar—it’s a time to cherish where we've been and envision where we want to go. The turning of the year invites us to consider the moments that shaped us, the accomplishments that fueled us, and even the challenges that refined us. This season, I encourage you to embrace these memories with gratitude, for they are the stepping stones that guide us forward.
As we prepare to welcome the new year, let’s take this time to focus on building the future we desire most. Now is the moment to imagine, to plan, and to shape a lifestyle that aligns with our truest aspirations. What dreams will you nurture? What goals will you pursue? What changes will you make to craft a life that resonates with joy, purpose, and fulfillment?
In this issue, we celebrate members in our community by shining a light on local artisans and entrepreneurs and reflecting on the ways we all contribute to the well-being of our collective home. Our hope is that these stories inspire you to take a moment to appreciate the gifts of this past year and to carry that warmth and generosity with you into the year ahead.
Let’s set our intentions high, leaning into the possibilities of the coming year with hope and purpose, all while holding close the gratitude we feel for where we stand today.
Here’s to a new year filled with possibility, progress, and a deep appreciation for every step along the way.
Warmest wishes for a joyful holiday season and an inspiring start to the new year,
JAHNA & JASON EICHEL, PUBLISHERS @FORTCOLLINSCITYLIFESTYLE
December 2024
PUBLISHERS
Jahna Eichel | jahna.eichel@citylifestyle.com
Jason Eichel | jason.eichel@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Macey VanDenMeerendonk | macey.v@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Morgan Henderson morgan.henderson@citylifestyle.com
MARKET SUPPORT ASSISTANT
Matthew Hart | matthew@thecreativeagencyco.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Jess MacMaster | photo@thecreativeagencyco.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
The Creative Agency hello@thecreativeagencyco.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Macey VanDenMeerendonk
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard
• Support the communities and causes you care about most
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future generations
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Let’s get going. Your values. Our Peace Process™. It’s possible.
Dr. Marisa Olivia Low brings with her extensive expertise in restorative dentistry, focusing on techniques that enhance both function and aesthetics. Her specialties include crown and bridge work, which she meticulously designs to restore patients’ smiles and bite function. Additionally, Dr. Low provides select endodontic procedures to preserve natural teeth, and she incorporates cosmetic treatments to help patients achieve their ideal look. Her comprehensive approach reflects her commitment to long-lasting, beautiful dental outcomes tailored to each patient’s unique needs.
Immerse yourself in the extraordinary world of John Atencio this holiday season with their thoughtfully curated Holiday Gift Guide. Discover new styles and updates to iconic collections like Orion and Oyster, each piece showcasing unparalleled artistry and design excellence. From handsketched visions to expertly crafted designs, every gift captures John Atencio’s unwavering commitment to craftsmanship. Visit the Fort Collins Boutique on College Ave to find distinctive and timeless pieces that will make this holiday unforgettable.
Exclusively at:
Since 1944
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
A Refined Legacy with Infinite Potential
ARTICLE BY MACEY VANDENMEERENDONK
PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE CREATIVE AGENCY
John Atencio is a name synonymous with artistry and excellence in the world of fine jewelry. What began as the creative passion of a CSU student has blossomed into an internationally acclaimed brand known for its innovation and elegance. Since opening his first storefront in Old Town Fort Collins in 1976, John Atencio has consistently pushed the boundaries of design, transforming personal inspirations into expansive collections that captivate and inspire.
Atencio's journey from a self-taught designer to a visionary jeweler was sparked by his uncle, an acclaimed animator, whose work ignited his own creative ambitions. Atencio began sketching as an outlet for expression, but these early drawings quickly evolved into intricate jewelry designs. With dedication, he refined his artistic skills, mastering both the art of sketching and the delicate craft of turning vision into wearable art. Today, each piece in the John Atencio collection reflects his unwavering commitment to craftsmanship and his legacy as a true pioneer in jewelry design
“Now, 50 plus years later, my mind and my hand really work well together. I know the architecture of a piece of jewelry,” Atencio said. “The art of making jewelry and the art of drawing jewelry has really become one for me."
Crafting collection pieces is a process steeped in dedication, where every detail is carefully considered to ensure the creation of something truly one-of-a-kind. Atencio’s standards are uncompromising—He only brings a design to life if it’s one he personally treasures. Each piece is a testament to his passion for ingenuity and his commitment to delivering personalized works of art. Atencio shares his design process and how collections are born by saying, “It really is an interesting process, it’s kind of like my mind is set on coming up with ideas all the time. There’s some kind of spark, even after a piece is made, where I might see something in it and I think it would be great as a diamond ring, or put in another type of jewelry. So, it’s just always stirring the pot trying to come up with ideas. There’s just this evolution of design that’s happening all the time.”
Atencio thrives on the ever-evolving landscape of the jewelry industry, embracing change and reinvention as driving forces behind his success. In the face of shifting markets and economic challenges, it is his creativity that has enabled John Atencio not only to adapt, but to thrive, maintaining its reputation throughout the years.
“I think you always stay in vogue if you’re always open to change,” Atencio said. “You have to recreate on a regular basis. I think that I’ve been blessed to be in a place where I could make those changes and survive in the market.”
Atencio’s unwavering dedication to excellence has reshaped the expectations of fine jewelry, inspiring a shift toward artistry and integrity across the industry. Every piece he designs is crafted with a meticulous attention to detail, embodying his drive to transcend traditional jewelry norms and create something extraordinary. More than just an innovator, Atencio is a visionary, continually refining his techniques and embracing new ideas to
elevate his craft. His designs not only meet high standards but redefine them, encouraging the entire jewelry world to think bigger, create bolder, and prioritize quality in every facet. This relentless pursuit of artistry and improvement has established him as a guiding force, setting a future-focused benchmark for what fine jewelry can and should be.
“I think that my legacy is really about getting over those hurdles and making sure that I was always doing the best job I could,” Atencio said. “As my career changed and I developed, I always wanted to do new but I always wanted to do better. To give the art, or give my business, or give the customer the best I had, and I think my legacy is pretty much set in that.”
ARTICLE BY MACEY VANDENMEERENDONK |
Unveiling an exclusive holiday collection, Style Curated introduces a refined blend of essentials crafted with the Fort Collins man in mind. We had the pleasure of sitting down with Jenna Hepp McEnaney, owner and stylist, to dive into the vision and character behind this limited-time offering. Jenna's inspiration is clear: these pieces are designed for the man who values comfort, quality, and effortless style. Each item, from the soft Lennox Button Down to the versatile Wade Thermal, has been handpicked to blend seamlessly into everyday wardrobes while offering that touch of elevated sophistication. With a deep understanding of her clientele, Jenna’s new men’s collection is poised to bring fresh options for the stylish, discerning man of Fort Collins—just in time for holiday gatherings and gifting season.
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE OVERALL STYLE AND AESTHETIC OF YOUR MEN’S COLLECTION? WHAT KEY ELEMENTS DEFINE ITS CHARACTER?
Our men's holiday collection was inspired by the everyday Fort Collins man. We see him out for dinner with his wife, stopping in to buy a surprise gift for his daughter, and grabbing a quick coffee from the local shop. So, what does this guy need? And what does he like? He is a thoughtful man, generally pulled together in appearance, and does his hair most days – when not wearing a hat. With this man in mind, I was drawn to a soft hand feel – every man I know is more inclined to wear something on repeat if it's soft. I think you can relate, ladies! I chose laid-back, casual pieces that have an elevated feel coming from some special detail or color of the actual piece. These are garments that should be a seamless addition to your current wardrobe, and styles that you should reach for time and again when getting dressed.
WHICH STYLES OR ITEMS DO YOU ANTICIPATE WILL RESONATE MOST WITH YOUR AUDIENCE IN THIS SEASON’S MEN'S COLLECTION?
I would like to highlight the Lennox Button Down, the Stark Quarter Zip Pullover, and the Wade Thermal. These are all great styles that have a place in your wardrobe. The Lennox is incredibly soft for a button down and we have multiple colorways in this top to select from. This button-down has more of a relaxed fit that makes for a versatile piece as you can leave it untucked or wear it open. The Stark Quarter Zip is a well-made pullover-style sweater that feels perfectly cozy for the holidays. I love a pullover as an alternative to your traditional button-down or long sleeve as it adds a thoughtful touch and feels more unique. The Wade Thermal is a good basic that still has something special to it. The weight of this top combined with the neutral color means it will be a universal top for Fall, Winter, and Spring, which I love.
WHAT CURRENT TRENDS IN MEN’S FASHION ARE YOU MOST EXCITED ABOUT, AND HOW HAVE THEY INFLUENCED YOUR LATEST DESIGNS?
I just really love that I see more men in Fort Collins caring about what they wear. I have had so many guys stop in my store, either on their own or while shopping with their significant other, to ask if I carry men's clothing. The men I've met who care about their wardrobe seem to have the desire to invest in high-quality clothing that fits well, so they don't have to continuously replace everything in a year. Speaking specifically, I love a good relaxed blazer or cardigan paired over a T-shirt with jeans and a cool boot. I think this outfit is a classic look that shows the man wearing it has put some thought into his outfit without looking over the top or out of place here in Colorado.
WHAT ARE YOUR TOP STYLING TIPS FOR THE PIECES INCLUDED IN YOUR MEN’S COLLECTION? HOW CAN THEY BE EFFORTLESSLY INTEGRATED INTO A MODERN WARDROBE?
As a stylist, I push for layering whether you are a woman or a man for a complete outfit and this is what I am hoping to provide for our guys with this collection – layering pieces. Think t-shirt, button down, with a jacket or thermal long sleeve, pullover sweater, and blazer. Each item can be worn alone, but they can create a cool, dynamic outfit when paired together. You may already have one or more pieces of the equation, but by finding that final piece from our collection, you will be able to create a complete look that elevates the finished product. I will say, once you find one style you like from our collection, you will be hooked. Every piece is very special and has a place in your wardrobe.
“OUR MEN'S HOLIDAY COLLECTION WAS INSPIRED BY THE EVERYDAY FORT COLLINS MAN.”
CONTINUED >
HOW DO YOU SEE YOUR MEN’S COLLECTION COMPLEMENTING AND ENHANCING YOUR EXISTING WOMEN’S OFFERINGS, BOTH IN TERMS OF STYLE AND BRAND SYNERGY?
Whenever I have a couple shopping in our store, I have noticed that they tend to complement each other. They dress similarly, prefer the same style of clothing, care about the quality and feel of what they are wearing, and value a great fit. Now, with our men's collection, it isn't one-sided! Both women and men can come shop together and find the styles they have been missing. I love the idea of a couple shopping our collection together as they can create a cohesive look for each person and leave here feeling successful as a pair.
I have been listening to the people of Fort Collins and sympathize that we are lacking in shopping options for men's clothing. I am thrilled to be able to offer a men's trunk show for the holiday season and hope to be successful enough with this trial that I can bring in a men's collection full-time. We are offering the Men's Holiday Collection in Style Curated through December 31st to give the men of Fort Collins a chance to test out these great styles. It is such a good season to invest in a few new items for your closet with holiday events coming up. Our men's collection will make for great gift-giving as well, ladies!
Our lady customers absolutely love Rails, and this is the brand that has provided us with such an amazing men's holiday collection. We were lucky enough to be sent not just the men's trunk show, but a complete collection of Rails women's styles for the same duration as our men's collection. This has allowed us to feel fully immersed in the world of Rails and is so much fun to be able to bring Fort Collins such a complete offering of one of our favorite brands. Now, both men and women can shop the complete Rails collection here at Style Curated for the holidays!
ARTICLE BY MACEY VANDENMEERENDONK
Embrace the splendor of the holiday season with a plethora of festive events and gatherings! Enrich this season by immersing yourself in a vibrant array of local concerts, shows, and captivating entertainment. We have curated a selection of enchanting holiday-themed events designed to bring joy and cheer to you and your loved ones during this magical time of year.
1. Maxline Brewing Holiday Market
December 7 12pm to 5pm
2. Winter Maker's Market New Belgium Brewery December 8 11am to 5pm
3. Salt Road Brewing Holiday Market December 14 12pm to 5pm
4. Holiday Open House & Boutique at The 1879 Avery House December 15 1pm to 4pm
5. Ginger and Baker Holiday Market December 15 10am to 4pm
6. Breckenridge Brewing Holiday Market
December 21 12pm to 5pm
7. Winter Farmers Market Foothills Mall Every Saturday 10am to 2pm
HOLIDAY SHOWS AND CONCERTS
1. Scrooge! The Musical The Candlelight Various dates/times throughout December
2. All-Choral Holiday Concert
CSU School of the Arts December 3 7:30pm to 9:30pm
3. Blue Violin Candlelight Christmas
The Lincoln Center December 4 7pm to 8:30pm
4. The Nutcracker 2024
The Lincoln Center December 4-8
Various dates/times
5. Holiday Harmonies
The Lincoln Center December 7 7pm
6. Rocky Mountain Experience ® A John Denver Christmas Starring Rick Schuler, America’s Top John Denver Tribute Show The Lincoln Center December 17 7:30pm
7. A Classic Christmas with Frisson The Lincoln Center December 19 7:30pm
1. Garden of Lights
The Gardens on Spring Creek Thursdays - Sundays in December 5pm to 9pm
2. Air Plant Holiday Ornaments Stem and Roots: House Plant Boutique December 4 6pm to 7pm
3. Visit Santa’s Reindeer! Bath Garden Center Registration required December 7, 14, and 21 9:30am to 2:30pm
4. Make and Paint Clay Holiday Gnomes with Flingin Pots Myth Maker Brewing December 8 12:30pm to 3:30pm
5. Holiday Lights Run & Party Fort Collins Running Club’s annual Holiday Lights Run & Party at Intersect Brewing December 10 5:30pm to 9pm
6. Sweaty Sweater 5k Foothills Mall December 14 9am
7. Holly Jolly Hideaway A holiday-themed pop-up mocktail bar at FoCo Cafe Fridays and Saturdays until December 21 6pm to 10pm
IRRESISTIBLE APPETIZERS FOR YOUR HOLIDAY GATHERINGS
ARTICLE BY MACEY VANDENMEERENDONK
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/2 baguette, sliced into 16 slices
• 2 tablespoons fig spread or preserves (or you can use plum, apricot, etc.)
• 4 ounces blue cheese, cut into chunks
• Torn fresh basil, for garnish
1. Heat the olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the baguette slices and toast on both sides until golden and crisp, about 8 minutes.
3. Allow to cool, then spread with a little fig spread/preserves.
4. Top with blue cheese chunks. Sprinkle on some basil. Recipe by foodnetwork.com.
INGREDIENTS
• 6 ounces pitted green olives
• 6 ounces pitted kalamata olives
• 2 Tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 3 sliced shallots
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
Whipped Feta
• 8 ounces feta cheese
• 1/3 cup sour cream
• 2 Tablespoons water or milk
• 8 ounces block cream cheese
• 1/2 lemon, juiced
• 1 Tablespoon honey
• salt and pepper to taste
• 1 Tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 2-5 cloves garlic
• extra virgin olive oil for garnish
1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. In a baking dish add both olives, olive oil, shallots, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together. Bake for 25-30 minutes. Set aside to slightly cool.
2. In the food processor add all the ingredients for the whipped feta dip. Pulse until smooth. Spread the dip on a plate.
3. Top with roasted olives. Garnish with an extra drizzle of extra virgin olive oil! Extra virgin olive oil for garnish. Recipe by fooddolls.com.
• 4 pears, halved, but not peeled or cored
• Extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/4 bunch fresh thyme
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup crumbled good-quality blue cheese
• 1/4 cup walnut pieces
1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
2. Arrange the pears cut sides up, on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Strip the leaves from the thyme branches and sprinkle over the pears. Put the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 20 minutes.
3. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and spoon a generous teaspoon of crumbled cheese in the center of each pear half, return the pears to the oven and roast until they are tender and the cheese is soft, about 10 more minutes.
4. Meanwhile, put the walnuts on another baking sheet and toast in the oven until golden brown and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Chop. When the pears are cooked, transfer them to a serving plate and sprinkle the toasted walnuts over the top. Serve hot. Recipe by foodnetwork.com.
• 2 1/2 lb. russet potatoes (about 4)
• 4 tbsp. unsalted butter, softened
• 2 egg yolks, plus 1 whole egg mixed with 1 tsp. heavy cream, lightly beaten
• 1/8 tsp. freshly grated nutmeg
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1. Heat oven to 400°. Using a fork, prick potatoes all over; place on a baking sheet. Bake until tender, 1 1 / 2 hours; let cool, then peel and pass through a food mill or ricer.
2. Mix potatoes, butter, yolks, nutmeg, salt, and pepper in a bowl; transfer to a piping bag fitted with a 3 /4” star tip.
3. On a parchment paper-lined baking sheet, and working in a tight circular motion, pipe twelve 2 1 / 2” cones about 2” high.
4. Brush with egg mixture; bake until golden brown, 40–45 minutes. Recipe by saveur.com.
ARTICLE
BIBB
• 22 gauge wire
• Ornaments of at least 3 varying shades and sizes
• Wire snips
Cut desired length of wire for a cluster, about 24”
Add an ornament about 4” from one end of the wire and twist the wire around the top of the ornament to provide a base for your cluster. Twist about 5 times. You should still have about 4” of wire at the end; you will need it to tie onto your garland, tree, or wreath.
Continue adding ornaments to the wire, alternating sizes and colors until you have 4-6” of wire remaining.
Twist the remaining wire around the top of your final ornament 5 times to secure all of your ornaments in place. Making sure to leave at least 4” of wire in place at the end in order to tie onto garland, tree, or wreath.
Use the ends of the wire to attach to your holiday item of choice!!
Pro tip: Keep your clusters to the 24” length to keep from getting too heavy and/or having ornaments pop off. Ornaments will pop off at times, but they will still look gorgeous and you can always glue the ornament back onto to the top. Simple, gorgeous, and impactful!
RING IN THE NEW YEAR WITH THESE MUST-TRY COCKTAILS
As the year draws to a close, what better way to celebrate than with a selection of delightful cocktails that will elevate your festivities? These simple yet elegant drinks are perfect for toasting the memories made in 2024 and the adventures that lie ahead in 2025. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying an intimate evening with loved ones, these cocktails will add a touch of sophistication and flavor to your celebrations.
ARTICLE BY MACEY VANDENMEERENDONK
INGREDIENTS
• 2 tablespoons raw sugar
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped dark chocolate
• 2 ounces chocolate liqueur
• 2 ounces vodka
• 1 ounce chilled espresso
• ½ teaspoon fresh orange juice
• 1 strip of orange zest
DIRECTIONS
Mix raw sugar and finely chopped dark chocolate on a plate. Combine chocolate liqueur and vodka, chilled espresso, fresh orange juice, and a strip of orange zest in a cocktail shaker with ice; stir well. Moisten the rim of a chilled martini glass and dip it in the sugar-chocolate mixture. Strain the cocktail into the glass and garnish with a dried orange wedge and raspberry. Recipe from foodnetwork.com.
INGREDIENTS
• 1 ounce Pierre Ferrand Ambre Cognac
• 1/4 ounce fresh-squeezed lemon juice
• 1/4 ounce simple syrup
• 4 ounces Champagne
DIRECTIONS
Shake Cognac, lemon, and simple syrup with ice and strain into a chilled champagne flute glass. Top slowly with 3 to 4 ounces of Champagne and garnish with a lemon twist. Recipe from foodrepublic.com.
INGREDIENTS
• ½ ounce of simple syrup
• 2 dashes of Scrappy’s burnt lemon bitters
• 1½ ounces of Nikka Kofi Gin
• ½ ounce Junipero smoked rosemary
Simple Syrup
• 200 grams grapes
• 200 grams sugar
• Zest of 5 limes and 3 lemons
DIRECTIONS
Mix together ingredients with ice. Stir, then strain into a glass with fresh ice. Recipe from @daveymakesdrinks.
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