Holiday + Giving
The holiday season is here, and for a month, our day-to-day lives will be elevated with festivity, generosity, hospitality, and cheer.
My most vivid childhood memory of the holiday season is my brother and me, sitting on the stairs in our Christmas pajamas, waiting in anticipation to see how the living room had been transformed overnight by Santa’s magic. There was always a shimmery bell-like sound from the candle-lit Scandinavian Angel chimes, and the scent of the incense wafting up from the traditional German wooden incense burner that looked like a hiker smoking a pipe. The mantle was glowing with 25 collected Christmas candles, Santa had left gifts, and our stockings were lumpy and overflowing.
In our December issue, we have collected stories to inspire both celebration and giving. Three of our partners share what it looks like to celebrate the holidays in three different life stages. We hear from local business owners, Dr. Spencer Eagan of Ascentist Medical Group, and Sarah Jabbour of Shop Scoobie about how they are able to enhance the lives of others through the platform of their work.
We are also excited to welcome our new monthly food contributor, Bev Weidner, who has shared the most festive focaccia recipe for your holiday table, and our friends from Savor and Swirl give us their holiday tablescape and entertaining expertise.
While the Holidays are full of beauty, they can also be bittersweet and lonely for many. I always hope that the busyness and gifting will not overshadow the most enduring aspect of the season, which is spreading love, light and generosity.
We are incredibly grateful for the support and warmth from this community over the past year.
Happy Holidays from the Mission Hills City Lifestyle Team!
BECCA SPEARS, SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
December 2024
PUBLISHER
Sarah Johns | sarah.johns@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Victoria Moore | victoria.moore@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Chelsey Juarez | chelsey.juarez@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Rebecca Spears | rebecca.spears@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Beth Stratbucker Photography, Lisa Carson, Beth King, Esther Kontny, Emma Spencer, Bev Weidner Hannah Williams
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Becca Spears Bev Weidner
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Josh Govero
LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley
Proverbs 3:5-6
inside the issue
The Gift of Confidence
Dr.
Christmas Through the Years
Mission
Impact
Scoobie owner Sarah Jabbour hosts
1 – 7: Balloon decor was masterfully done by boutique balloon company Milestone Market: themilestonemarket.com/. Luminate KC provided the giant marquee letters for the photoshoot. Avery’s Inflatables organized a styled shoot to showcase classy Christmas themed inflatable and decor rentals. Book Avery’s Inflatables for your next party: averysinflatables.com/
business monthly
Welcome to Dr. Spencer Eagan of Ascentist Plastic Surgery
A managing partner of Ascentist Plastic Surgery in Overland Park, Dr. Spencer Eagan is an incredibly sought-after surgeon who draws patients from all over the country and the world with his background in cosmetic and reconstructive surgeries. His practice is known for prioritizing patient care and seeking to understand their vision in order to achieve the best results. Learn more about Ascentist Plastic Surgery and working with Dr. Eagan by visiting ascentistplasticsurgery.com/
Scan to read more
AQ Hardwood Floors of Olathe continues to floor its customers
As a faithful partner of Mission Hills City Lifestyle, Alex of AQ Hardwood Floors has proven to deliver unique and quality flooring designs with impeccable touch. In addition to classic hardwoods, his crew is skilled in refinishing and installing engineered, laminate and staircase flooring. Free quotes are available for your project. Follow the steps online at aqhardwoodflooring.com/ or call Alex directly at 913-286-3745.
New restaurant opens inside Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art
Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art and its chef partner Ted Habiger, a three-time James Beard Foundation Award-nominated chef, announced a new concept for the museum cafe in November called Oil on Linen. Its menu celebrates Habiger’s artful approach to the aesthetics, influences, and origins of a dish, while the aesthetic honors both the restaurant’s past and the vibrant contemporary art community in Kansas City today. Make a reservation and view hours and menus online: oil-on-linen.com/ Scan to read
Photography by Anna Petrow Mulvihill
THE GIFT OF CONFIDENCE
Dr. Spencer Eagan remains humble and pursues excellence after 13 years in plastic surgery
ARTICLE BY VICTORIA MOORE PHOTOGRAPHY BY BECCA SPEARS AND DRAKE SWEET
As the holiday season approaches and the spirit of giving comes alive, people often associate tangible gifts with this time of year-presents wrapped under a tree, Secret Santa games or even a shared experience. However, gifts can come in many different forms. Dr. Spencer Eagan of
“There’s a misconception that plastic surgery is just cosmetic. It’s really about transformation, whether it’s reconstruction or cosmetic. Someone has an issue you’re trying to solve.”
Ascentist Plastic Surgery certainly knows how to produce extraordinary physical results, but perhaps the greatest gift his hands can offer is the gift of confidence that is able to transform lives, families and futures.
Putting yourself into the care of a doctor is an extremely personal experience. The vulnerability, the procedures, the results - all of it is nothing short of an emotional journey. In the realm of plastic surgery, gaining a patient’s trust from the start is a mighty virtue. Dr. Eagan makes that the aim in his practice, prioritizing patient care above anything else.
“Trust is everything. I think you gain trust by listening and asking questions,” he said. “It conveys that I care and I want to get down to the root of what will make them happy.”
Working and helping with his hands was the basis of Dr. Eagan’s start in medicine. He briefly shadowed his uncle at his Idaho veterinary practice but decided to pursue a different path. Watching the power of how plastic surgery can change someone’s life for the better, Dr. Eagan knew he had found his calling.
“There is a misconception that plastic surgery is just cosmetic. It’s really about transformation, whether it’s reconstruction or cosmetic. Someone has an issue that you’re trying to solve,” he said.
Born in Lawrence, Kansas, and completing his degree at the University of Kansas, Dr. Eagan did not have to look far from home to find success. After thirteen years of practicing in Kansas City, he is one of the managing partners of Ascentist Plastic Surgery and has been instrumental in growing
other regional practices. Word of Dr. Eagan’s exceptional work has even spread nationally and overseas, drawing patients from countries around the world. All of this has been built through humility and keeping his patients’ goals at the forefront.
“One of my key points is I will not leave the room until I’m happy with how they look on the table. If they don’t look good here and now, they’re not going to look good through the course of time,” Dr. Eagan said. “I think the most gratifying piece is when you get people back three or six or twelve months later, and they’re just beaming.”
One of those individuals who took the leap of trust with Dr. Eagan is Mission Hills City Lifestyle publisher Sarah Johns. She was referred to Dr. Eagan during one of the most difficult seasons of her life and immediately felt the warmth and support for her personal circumstances as well as her cosmetic desires.
“His kindness, authenticity and expertise came through immediately, and I knew I was in the right hands! To have a doctor, who not only fixed a cosmetic need, but built a level of trust and rapport which lent to a real human experience, was so helpful to me in a season that was extremely challenging,” Johns said.
Johns was met with that comfort and given the gift of transformation from the inside out. In the midst of her pain, loss and uncertainty, she considers her cosmetic improvements to be a direct reflection of the healing she continues to pursue on the inside.
“I believe that true beauty comes from within,” Johns said. “I also believe that we are holistic beings, connected in mind, body and spirit. The
Sarah Johns and family
“The amazing physical results created internal confidence. I cannot thank Dr. Eagan and his staff enough for the care and exceptional results that I received!”
amazing physical results created an internal confidence inside me, and I cannot thank Dr. Eagan and his staff enough for the care and exceptional results that I received!”
Dr. Eagan’s symbolism of “beauty from the inside out” stems from the beauty found within a geode. He proudly displays one next to the front door of Ascentist, serving as a constant reminder of why he is so passionate about what he does.
“Our goal is for the patients’ external canvas to match the inner beauty and vision they have for themselves,” Dr. Eagan said. “When you are
happy with yourself, it provides confidence, and that confidence spills into all aspects of life.”
In a culture where doctors can sometimes lean toward burnout, Dr. Eagan is motivated now more than ever to continue growing Ascentist, striving to learn new techniques and putting his patients first in every circumstance. With an incredible team surrounding him and a loving family driving him, the gift of transformation has never been in better hands.
“When you love what you do it doesn’t feel like work,” Dr. Eagan said. “I wake up each day motivated to make a difference in people’s lives.”
Sarah Johns
CH R ISTMAS THROUGHTHEYEARS
The holidays are special to different people for different reasons. Whether you are single, newly married, raising kids or celebrating with adult children, this time of year is about creating lifelong memories. Take a peek into how three of our partners celebrate Christmas with their families.
MISSION HILLS CITY LIFESTYLE PARTNERS
CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAYS IN DIFFERENT LIFE STAGES
ARTICLE BY LISA CARSON, BETH KING, EMMA SPENCER | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Emma Spencer owner and creator of Kansas City’s luxury Invisible Bead Extension destination Stitch Salon
My husband and I recently returned from an unforgettable three-week honeymoon abroad, where we explored Greece, Croatia, Sicily, and Spain. As newlyweds, we’re especially excited to celebrate the holidays this year with our families, bringing back inspiration from our travels and embracing the season with new traditions and a deeper sense of togetherness. There’s something special about sharing these moments as a married couple—it adds warmth and meaning to every gathering. Together, we’re planning to grow our team and expand within the coming years, bringing more talent and inspiration to our clients. We’re so grateful for the support of our community and can’t wait to see what’s in store for 2025!
CONTINUED >
Beth King seasonal color analyst and owner of Lead Through Style
The holidays are magical with little kids! I started a tradition a few years ago that always gives us something to look forward to during this season. Both of my children have a three foot tree in their room, just for them. Every year, we take them to Hallmark to pick out a new ornament for their tree and then we go to dinner at the same restaurant. We’ve only been doing this for three years, and it is already so much fun to reminisce about what they have picked! They can take their trees with them when they move out of the house and can look back at who they were throughout the years. We also love going to Powell Gardens during Christmas to walk through all of the lights. Now that I am a mom, I try to make the holidays as special as possible because these are the memories they will carry with them forever!
Lisa Carson
owner of formalwear boutique
Natalie M Studio
Each year we have a Progressive Holiday Dinner with our adult children. We have four kids and five grandkids but this night is adults only. We hire a driver and rent a mini bus for the night. Everyone dresses in goofy comfortable holiday outfits. Between courses, we check out the holiday lights and stop at some favorite photo spots. Each year there is a theme, last year the theme was Christmas Movies. The night has become one of our favorite traditions. We get to see our kids’ homes decked out for the event and we really enjoy their cooking skills. Most of all, we love the laughter and singing that always fills the evening.
SMALLBUSINE SS, BIGIMPACT
From the moment she opened her doors in 2019, Scoobie owner Sarah Jabbour dreamt of her small business making a big impact in her community. With the generous spirit of Prairie Village shoppers supporting her vision each year, she is entering her sixth holiday season fulfilling Christmas wish lists for the Rose Brooks Center.
“I’m so blessed to have the shop in an area surrounded by wonderful families that truly care about community and supporting local. I wanted to return the favor and support those in our community who need our help the most.”
Rose Brooks is a safety center for those caught in the cycle of domestic abuse. Each year, they serve over 14,000 individuals and pets around the Kansas City Metro by providing shelter, education, community programs and much more. Jabbour learned about the mission of Rose Brooks in high school, and it broke her heart. That experience motivated her to provide a glimmer of light to these women and children each Christmas.
Scoobie owner Sarah Jabbour hosts a holiday donation drive for local domestic abuse shelter
ARTICLE BY VICTORIA MOORE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CASSIE TAYLOR
“The most wonderful time of year is, unfortunately, not always the case for everyone,” Jabbour said. “These mothers and children are facing extreme obstacles and darkness when it is supposed to be a happy and joyful time of year. Those blessed enough to be able to help brighten their spirits by donating in any way is what the holiday season is all about.”
Rose Brooks creates a holiday wish list every year based on the needs of those they are currently serving. They collect brand new, unwrapped personal and household items at their holiday store on Ward Parkway. Some of the common, needed items include undergarments, shoes, over-the-counter medicines, and socks. Jabbour makes it simple for her shoppers by posting the complete list on the shop’s Instagram. She also hosts a donation drive at Scoobie twice a year and offers 20% off an item of choice with every donation.
“My heart is always beaming when I go to drop off items that have been donated. So many of our customers are moms, and I know they care and feel the same way about mothers and children in need of help. I can donate more using the store as a platform than what I could donate single-handedly. It’s an amazing feeling, and it’s what community is all about.”
If you want to make a difference and partner with Rose Brooks this holiday season, participate in donation week at Scoobie this December 6-10. View the complete wish list online at rosebrooks.org/event/holidaystore/
GATHER AROUND THE TABLE
ARTICLE BY VICTORIA MOORE AND HANNAH WILLIAMS PHOTOGRAPHY BY ESTHER KONTNY
SAVOR AND SWIRL’S HANNAH WILLIAMS SHARES HER TIPS ON HOW TO CREATE BEAUTIFUL HOLIDAY TABLESCAPES
Being best friends and business partners is the recipe for their success. Kyle and Hannah Williams are local, married culinary artists who want to help you “WOW” at your next gathering. Savor & Swirl was birthed as a creative outlet for Kyle to make incredible dishes paired with his passion for great wine, married with Hannah’s passion for creating and designing beautiful, enchanting ambiance to create a memorable dining experience for our guests. This holiday season, Hannah offers four simple steps that could help you elevate your spread for a December dinner.
LEAVE SPACE
LIGHTING
It’s simple but never underestimate the power of candlelight. It sets the mood and makes things glowy and pretty.
Don’t be afraid to mix and match. I love to use different glassware and antique platters to bring some character to the table. I believe it adds warmth and makes the table feel personal, preventing it from feeling too cold and sterile. The mix of different styles and genres blended together always reminds me of the individuality of the people around the table. 01 02 03 04
The table space fills up quickly! Don’t fill the table with so much decor that there’s no room for guests to spread out and relax. Leave space for wine glasses, flatware and different plates, as well as simply space for your guests to breathe. When doing floral arrangements for the table, I always like to keep them small and low so they don’t interrupt the flow of conversation.
GET CREATIVE
PREPARATION
The most important aspect of our events is to have our “Mise En Place.” It is a French phrase Kyle learned in culinary school and means, “Having everything in its proper place before the work begins.” It is so important to us that it is the official name of our company! Do as much as you can to prepare ahead of time so you are set up to succeed! That will allow you the best opportunity to relax and enjoy your guests’ company while still entertaining.
You don’t have to carry the weight of hosting an event alone! Reach out to Kyle and Hannah to reserve your private dinner party at savorandswirl.com/
christmas tree focaccia
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY BEV WEIDNER
ingredients
• 3 cups bread flour
• ¼ tsp active dry yeast
• 1 ¼ tsp coarse salt
• 1 ⅔ cup warm water
• Pear, pearl onions, cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion
• Fresh rosemary sprigs
• Coarse salt
• Olive oil (a few Tbs.)
directions
1. In a large mixing bowl combine the flour, yeast and salt. Whisk until combined, then add the warm water. Using a wooden spoon, stir the dough together until it’s shaggy and wet. Cover it with plastic wrap and a clean kitchen towel and let it sit on the counter overnight. At least 12 hours.
2. Next day: Grab a casserole dish (7x12ish) and drizzle a decent amount of oil on the bottom. The bread bowl should be risen, bubbly and beautiful. Tip the dough into the casserole dish. Spread it with your hands to fit the dish snuggly, then dimple it with your fingers and drizzle with more oil. Let this sit, lightly covered for two more hours. Then it’s time to decorate!
3. Preheat your oven to 400.
4. So, we’re building a tree. I used the rosemary as the tree branches, fanned out in places. Slice a small piece of pear and use it as the tree base. Slice cherry tomatoes in half, creating little “ornaments.” Do the same with the pearl onions. Peel and slice in half. Maybe sliced pear for the tree topper? Get creative!
5. Once you’ve decorated your tree, sprinkle with a little bit of coarse salt and bake for 25 minutes, until the bread is puffed and golden, and the toppings have set.
6. Let it rest a few minutes, then slice and serve!
7. Makes one focaccia loaf.
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
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
DECEMBER 1ST – 22ND
Hallmark Christmas Experience
Crown Center Square | 10:00 AM
Experience the charm of every Hallmark Christmas movie you’ve ever seen in the square of Crown Center! Kansas City hosts Hallmark Christmas Experience, the first of its kind and open to the public through December 22. Purchase tickets to mingle with the stars, attend creative workshops and sip and dine in style. View a full list of events online: experiencehallmarkchristmas.com/
DECEMBER 6TH – 24TH
The Nutcracker
Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts | 7:30 PM
The Kansas City Ballet invites you to ignite your imagination this Christmas during the classic, fun-filled holiday tradition of The Nutcracker. The story follows beloved characters like Clara, the Nutcracker Prince, Dr. Drosselmeier, and the enchanting Sugar Plum Fairy living in the Victorian Era during a magical theater performance that will leave you in awe. Tickets are available online: kcballet.org/events/the-nutcracker/
DECEMBER 11TH
Derek Hough: Dance For The Holidays at the Midland Theatre
The Midland Theatre | 8:00 PM
Known for his talent on Dancing with the Stars, professional dancer and actor Derek Hough lights up the stage of the Midland Theater for one night only this Christmas season. Enjoy his holiday special alongside the entire family with tickets starting at $39. Learn more about Derek and the show by visiting midlandkc.com/events/
DECEMBER 14TH
Westport Christmas Market
Westport, Kansas City | 10:00 AM
Mark your calendars for the second-ever Westport Christmas Market! Step into a winter wonderland as the Westport streets transform into a one-stop shop for Christmas goodies as local holiday music fills the air. Check off your Christmas list with gifts and crafts from local makers and artists while sipping on hot chocolate or a hot toddy. Learn more online: westportkcmo.com
DECEMBER 23RD – 24TH
Frozen in Concert
Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts | 7:00 PM
Enjoy the beloved Disney classic Frozen in a whole new way this Christmas week! The Kansas City Symphony brings the epic journey of Elsa and Anna to life as they perform the live score under the big screen. Tickets are available for the two-night show at tickets.kcsymphony.org/frozen
DECEMBER 31ST
Around the World on NYE: Passport to 2025
The Fontaine | 8:00 PM
Usher in 2025 with bold flavors and a champagne celebration! Your pallet will thank you as you adventure around the world on New Year’s Eve at The Fontaine Hotel, tasting globally inspired dishes and drinks and enjoying live music to carry you through the night. Tickets are $100 per person and can be purchased online at eventbrite.com/
