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Crisp, sunny mornings and frosty evenings ablaze with festive lights and decorations reveal a captivating beauty. Each holiday season inspires me and those closest to my heart to be better humans, more aware souls with big hearts for life, joy, and restoration. For this Holidays and Giving issue, we selected a cover image that represents the spirit of the season: a Christmas stocking. Welcome to December and your 2024 Holidays and Giving issue!
What’s in store for you this month? Family gatherings? Holiday dinners and parties with friends, chosen families, and co-workers? As you share your heart and exchanges of love and thoughtfulness, may we inspire even the pickiest of gift-givers—we think those who want something unique and personalized will certainly find something between the pages to light up faces and spirits!
Speaking of inspiration, discover more about our annual Giving Campaign in this month’s issue. Please be sure to reach out to City Lifestyle and nominate as you feel led. We’re always so very grateful to be a part of our community in this way, and I believe each of us bears the torch of hope for others in mission, vision, and purpose. We all have something to give to the world, and we’re already influencing others without even knowing it.
In so being, let’s give ourselves intentional gifts of radical love, unrelenting selfcare, and deep personal challenge-I promise we’ll change the world together this way.
Happy Holidays and Many Blessings!
AARON SWART, PUBLISHER @MIDLOTHIANLIFESTYLE
PUBLISHER
Aaron Swart | aaron.swart@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Joanna Tannenbaum
joanna.tannenbaum@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Steven Casupanan | steven.casupanan@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATORS
Naylor Taliaferro | lcrmediallc@gmail.com
Steven Casupanan | steven.casupanan@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Amanda Rae Linas, Joanna Tannenbaum
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Beloved Pet & Equine Photography, Amanda Rae Linas
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto
LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster
No one questions the love that we receive from our pups. And even everyone around us can see that. But they don’t always see obedience and good behavior from our doggies! Instead of complaining about another’s canine capers, change it. Gift your beleaguered bestie with superior dog training from DTE this holiday season, and stand back as your life is dramatically altered. No more spontaneous, slobbery greetings to hamper your hygiene or unwanted toenails digging into your fave ugly Christmas sweater. This holiday season, help turn Satan’s Little Helper into Santa’s Little Helper. :)
HCA Healthcare has partnered with Brightpoint Community College to launch a radiology program at Chippenham Hospital to address the shortage of imaging technicians. The inaugural cohort of 21 students began in August and will graduate in May 2026, with some receiving scholarships for a two-year work commitment with HCA. The associate degree program includes clinical rotations at HCA facilities and aims to expand enrollment to 40 students annually. hcahealthcare.com
Chesterfield County was recently recognized by the National Association of Government Web Professionals (NAGW) for its excellence in digital government innovation. NAGW President Jennifer Chapman praised the winners for their innovative approaches that enhance transparency and accessibility in government services. Awards were given across various categories, and Chesterfield was awarded the Pinnacle and Members Choice awards. chesterfield.gov
Sugar & Twine has reopened as a sitdown café after over four years of closure. It now accommodates 23 guests in an expanded 3,000-square-foot space next to the original bakery at 2928 W. Cary St. In addition to its popular pastries, the café offers sandwiches and locally sourced coffee. The café also continues to supply wholesale products to nearby restaurants, enhancing its community presence. sugartwine.com
Michelle Davenport, Owner of The Mercantile at Three Crosses
ARTICLE BY JOANNA TANNENBAUM
PHOTOGRAPHY BY
AMANDA RAE LINAS
Nestled alongside the charming Three Crosses Distilling Co. in Powhatan, you’ll find The Mercantile at Three Crosses, affectionately known as The Merc by locals. This quaint boutique has quickly become a go-to destination for anyone on the hunt for distinctive gifts to delight friends and family, especially during the holiday season.
The Merc offers a remarkable and varied collection that suits every preference and event. Whether you are looking for elegant jewelry, fashionable accessories, lovely home décor, or one-of-a-kind finds, you are guaranteed to discover the ideal treasure that showcases your style and emotions for personal adornment or a meaningful gift for someone special.
In addition to its unique offerings, The Merc excels in curating customized gift baskets tailored specifically to your preferences. These baskets are perfect for various occasions, including weddings, business events, family reunions, and fundraisers. If you are surprising a friend or celebrating a family milestone, The Merc at Three Crosses promises a delightful shopping experience that everyone will appreciate!
Moreover, The Merc hosts a variety of engaging events, including decorative workshops, book clubs, and more, making it an exciting community hub. The team at The Merc is dedicated to making gift-giving both effortless and memorable, catering to every need with a touch of personalization. Stop in today or visit threecrossesmercantile.com
3835B Old Buckingham Road
Powhatan, VA 23139
(804) 216 - 6648
Store Hours:
Tuesday, Wednesday & Sunday 11 AM – 5 PM
Thursday - Saturday 11 AM – 7 PM
Closed Mondays
ARTICLE
Holiday gatherings create the perfect opportunity to enjoy lively conversations, sip on festive cocktails, and savor delicious dishes with friends and family. What better way to start the party than with a custom-made charcuterie board or grazing table from Bite by Bite & Co.? Located in Stony Point Fashion Park in Richmond, Bite by Bite & Co. offers a wide variety of flavors and textures, ensuring everyone finds something they love. As owner Teyoshe Smith says, “Charcuterie brings people together,” making it the ideal centerpiece for any celebration, whether a festive party or a cozy family dinner.
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While the presentation is essential for crafting the perfect charcuterie boards and grazing tables, the unique and savory flavors truly elevate the entire experience. With options that thoughtfully cater to various dietary needs, Bite by Bite & Co. presents delectable options for vegans, vegetarians, and individuals avoiding gluten, pork, and nuts. They take immense pride in the high quality and careful attention to detail put into every board and table. As Teyoshe aptly remarks, “We love to say, ‘Yes, the presentation is gorgeous, but wait until you taste it!’ It’s all in the special touch.”
What sets Bite by Bite & Co. apart is Teyoshe’s homemade cheese dips and cheeseballs, which form the heart of her business. Her recipes are made from fresh ingredients and reflect her passion for cooking and sharing magnificent flavors. Bite by Bite & Co. not only offers these unique dips and cheeseballs but also provides beautiful decor to personalize grazing tables, platters, boxes, or cups, making every event memorable. They also have appetizer and dessert add-on packages. Personalization is vital in charcuterie, and Teyoshe ensures a fantastic experience.
Bite by Bite & Co. aims to normalize charcuterie as an enjoyable everyday option for lunch, snacks, or dinner. Through same-day pickup and delivery services, Teyoshe makes it easy for the Richmond community to enjoy her handcrafted charcuterie offerings. In addition to holiday platters and catering for locals in the Richmond and Midlothian areas, Bite by Bite & Co. also ships their platters and dips nationwide—a perfect gift for those looking to send thoughtful presents to recipients far away!
Order your favorite cheeses, meats, nuts, fruits, and more at bitebybiteandco.com to make your holiday celebrations unforgettable. Don’t wait—head to Bite by Bite & Co. today to enhance your holiday gatherings with a delightful spread! Use promo code “LIFESTYLE” to receive 10% off all orders (expires 1/31/25).
Teyoshe Smith, the CEO and owner of Bite by Bite & Co., launched her first storefront at Stony Point Fashion Park this year. Initially starting as a home-based venture in 2022, she has tirelessly promoted charcuterie boards and homemade cheese dips, enabling customers to indulge in these delights any evening rather than just on special occasions. With noteworthy sales growth, Teyoshe is now planning to expand through franchising. She offers catering services for groups and private charcuterie workshops, ideal for team-building activities. She also has a private room for rent, perfect for meetings or small parties. Visit Teyoshe today at Bite by Bite & Co.!
BITE BY BITE & CO.
9200 Stony Point Pkwy, Ste. 152A Richmond, VA 23235 (804) 404-6662
info@bitebybiteandco.com
Hours:
Monday - Sunday: 10 AM - 6 PM Sunday: 10 AM - 6 PM * Store pick-up and delivery only (no walk-ins) *
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ARTICLE BY AMANDA RAE LINAS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY BELOVED PET & EQUINE PHOTOGRAPHY
a
Meet Scout. This energetic Bearded Collie is a farm dog and champion, excelling in agility, obedience, and rallying. Recently, she has added scent work to her impressive skill set. While not the cuddliest pup, Scout loves attention and enjoys spending time with her humans and her two Bearded Collie siblings. At home, she plays with her Jolly Ball and enjoys going for walks. Friendly and hardworking, Scout shines both on the field and at home.
Submit your pet for a feature at: belovedpetphoto.com/midlothian
ARTICLE
BY
JOANNA TANNENBAUM
| PHOTOGRAPHY BY CROWDED TABLE
During the holiday season, flickering candles fill our windows and mantles with a warm, inviting glow, setting an atmosphere that brings everyone together. Their dancing flames create a festive ambiance, while delightful scents of cinnamon, pine, and spiced apple bring out cherished memories from holidays past. Candles are more than decorations; they are symbols of joy and togetherness. This season, immerse yourself in our beloved holiday favorites from Crowded Table and let the soothing warmth of candles create a cozy retreat filled with comfort and joy.
Transform your space with the Mulled Wine candle. Once lit, it offers orange peel, cinnamon, and lemon notes. As it burns, it reveals cranberry and apple cider, evoking the warmth of holiday gatherings. Rich red wine and earthy wood add depth, making it perfect for cozy nights or as a centerpiece.
Enjoy the ultimate holiday scent with the Scotch Pine + Balsam Fir candle. This blend captures the freshness of balsam fir and crispness of Scotch pine, featuring top notes of cypress and lemon. Light it up to fill your space with Christmas warmth!
Embrace the season’s sweetness with the Ginger Spice + Sugared Vanilla candle. A cheerful orange and lemon blend dances with ginger and sugar while comforting vanilla, cinnamon, and allspice create a warm base. Illuminate your space for festive gatherings!
Experience the vibrant essence of the holidays with the Orange Peel + Peppercorn candle. This blend of zesty oranges, black pepper, and a hint of vanilla creates a welcoming vibe. Perfect for festive occasions, it brightens any chilly day.
Discover nostalgia with the Peppermint Twist candle—bright top notes of peppermint blend with sweet sugar, creamy undertones, and rich vanilla. This fragrance is ideal for stirring warmth and makes a wonderful holiday gift for everyone.
Celebrate the holiday warmth with the Cinnamon + Spiced Cloves candle. The aroma of cinnamon harmonizes with nutmeg, cloves, and cardamom, fostering a cozy ambiance. Enjoy the comforting blend of vanilla and tonka bean while relaxing with a warm drink!
Crowded Table candles are hand-poured in Richmond, Virginia, using pure soy wax and cotton wicks for an even burn. They are available in 10 oz. glass jar candles for $26.00 each and 2.75 oz. soy wax melts for $6.50 each. To purchase the perfect holiday gift online, visit: crowdedtablehome.co
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
• 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!
DECEMBER 1ST-31ST
Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden 4:00 PM
Dominion Energy GardenFest of Lights is a cherished holiday tradition that showcases millions of dazzling lights, beautiful botanical decorations, and enchanting model trains. Guests can also enjoy festive dinners, cozy fires, hot chocolate, and delicious s'mores. It's the perfect way to celebrate the season with family and friends! Advanced tickets are required and can be purchased online at lewisginter.org. This event is closed on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
DECEMBER 6TH-8TH
Manchester High School
Check out The Nutcracker Sweet, a heartwarming non-profit performance that has become a cherished tradition in Midlothian! Prepare to be enchanted by beautiful dancing, stunning costumes, and talented guest artists! This special event welcomes performers from all backgrounds, making it a true celebration of community and the arts. Friday, December 6th at 7 PM - Saturday, December 7th at 2 PM and 7 PM - Sunday, December 8th at 2 PM. Tickets are $2028, available at the door and online at thenutcrackersweet.com.
DECEMBER 7TH
Science Museum of Virginia | 10:15 AM
Join in for an exciting procession that includes vibrant floats, enormous helium balloons, marching bands from high schools and colleges, princesses, superheroes, and the legendary Santa himself. The parade kicks off at the Science Museum of Virginia at 10:15 AM and will pro-
“Oh,
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ceed east along Broad Street, finishing at 7th Street near the Richmond Coliseum. richmondparade.org
DECEMBER 7TH-8TH
Maymont - Carriage Lawn House 12:00 PM
Explore one-of-a-kind handmade gifts crafted by more than 70 local artists. Take part in fun, family-friendly activities, such as meeting Saint Nicholas and enjoying a picturesque holiday train ride. Warm up with hot cocoa and snacks by the fire pit while listening to festive music. Tickets are $10 for adults and $6 for children and can be purchased online at maymont.org.
DECEMBER 21ST
3 Monkeys Bar & Grill | 4:00 PM
Enjoy a night of festive cheer, laughter, and camaraderie as you explore local bars! With your bar crawl ticket, you’ll enjoy access to over four venues, free entry to top bars, a complimentary after-party, a wristband, and a custom digital map. Get ready for an unforgettable evening! Tickets are $24.99 and can be purchased online at eventbrite.com.
DECEMBER 31ST
Charred Swift Creek | 9:30 PM
Celebrate the new year and support a great cause! Join in commemorating the 10th anniversary of the Colorado Fund for Muscular Dystrophy. Enjoy a night filled with music from the 90s - 2000s jams to current hits, delicious hors d'oeuvres, a photo booth, raffle prizes, a cocktail bar, and a champagne toast. Tickets are $125 per person or $225 per couple and can be purchased online. scmktg.ticketspice. com/nye2025charredcfmd
