Kairos International Prison Ministry Needs Local Volunteers.
Your local Kairos Prison Ministry chapter is comprised of volunteers from Austin, to New Braunfels, to San Antonio. We serve the Reuben Torres Unit in Hondo, TX. Kairos has ONE mission with THREE programs. Kairos Inside is for incarcerated men inside the prison. Kairos Outside is for women impacted by incarceration, and Kairos Torch is for incarcerated youth. Our mission is to share the transforming love of Jesus Christ to impact the hearts and lives of Incarcerated men and their families, to become loving and productive citizens of their communities. It's God's plan to reach these people. We are just a part of it. Would you like to volunteer and involve your church?
Email Craig.Jones@citylifestyle.com for contact form: Name, Church that you attend, phone number, email address, check box to volunteer for prayer support, agape love support, financial contribution, Kairos Inside, Kairos Support team (food prep and prayer), Kairos Outside, Kairos Torch.
Celebrating The Merry & Bright This Christmas!
As the holiday season approaches, I find myself reflecting on the traditions, joy, and magic that come with this special time of year. There’s something about Christmas that brings out the best in us all—whether it’s the joy of giving, spending time with loved ones, or simply basking in the warmth of cherished memories.
In this issue, we celebrate the unique holiday traditions that make our community shine. From the much-loved Nutcracker performance by the School of Classical Ballet and Dance, to local holiday markets and events that bring neighbors together, there’s no shortage of festive spirit here in New Braunfels.
For many, this season is about creating lasting memories—whether it’s cutting down a fresh Christmas tree, baking cookies with the family, or crafting homemade ornaments. These traditions are a reminder of what’s truly important: connection, love, and togetherness.
As you flip through the pages of this Christmas edition, I hope you’ll find inspiration for your own holiday celebrations and discover new ways to embrace the joy of the season. Thank you for letting us be a part of your holidays and for your continued support throughout the year.
Wishing you and yours a season filled with peace, love, and joy.
BOWERS, EDITOR
December 2024
PUBLISHER
Craig Jones | craig.jones@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Samantha Bowers | samantha.bowers@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Chelsey Juarez | chelsey.juarez@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Erica Bibb, Julie Brown Patton, Mindy Wester
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Janie Jones
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen
inside the issue
Joyful Traditions for a Merry Season
Discover
Dancing Through Tradition
DECEMBER
city scene
WHERE
NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: NBMS hosted hands-on training for K9 units from across the state for a special training. 2: Cantina del Rio presented Comal ISD’s Canyon Athletic Booster Club $1000 from “Taco Turf War” 3: Jayna & Owens Halloween ready in Bridgerton inspired costumes. 4: Courtney Fitzgerald and mom group enjoying playdate at Gruene Grove. 5: Some of New Braunfels top business professionals coming together during Align Mastermind. 6: New Braunfels Humane Society had their own trick or treating with some of their residents.
Want
COURTNEY FITZGERALD
Empowering People, Improving Lives, One Ear At A Time.
It brings me great joy to put a smile on someone’s face because their quality of life has improved through better hearing. Each day I strive to understand what is going on with a patient so I can help them achieve the best outcome possible. I feel fortunate to have a private practice where I am free to treat each patient as an individual. They are not a number to me and I can offer them the best solution based on their lifestyle needs, not the requirements of a corporate business. Hearing is so important for brain health. Being proactive with your hearing is known to delay and even prevent the onset of dementia. Everyone needs a baseline hearing test!
Dr. Sally
I was isolated because I could not participate in conversations well and I was missing out on life. But not anymore, thanks to Dr. Sally.”
RoundUp 4 Charity Ribbon Cutting
Congratulations to RoundUp4Charity on their recent ribbon cutting! RoundUp4Charity is a dedicated nonprofit organization that inspires community action while providing opportunities to support those in need. Through fun events and activities, they aim to be a life-changing force for individuals and families, promoting compassion and service. Their mission emphasizes the importance of community involvement, making it possible for everyone to contribute positively. https://www.roundup4charity.org/
Photography by @nbtxchamber
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
Joyful Traditions for a Merry Season
DISCOVER FESTIVE WAYS TO CELEBRATE THE SEASON, FROM TIMELESS TRADITIONS TO CREATING NEW FAMILY MEMORIES.
ARTICLE BY SAMANTHA BOWERS
Gruene is the perfect holiday destination for anyone looking to experience a truly unique and festive Christmas. One of the highlights is a visit with Kowboy Kringle, who greets families from his saddle, spreading holiday cheer with a Texas twist. Kids can share their Christmas wishes while parents snap memorable photos. Another exciting event is the annual Ride of the Gruene Pony Express. This cherished tradition sees riders delivering holiday letters to the New Braunfels post office in true Western fashion. It’s a nod to the Old West and a festive way to kick off the season.
Both events capture the charm and spirit of Gruene during Christmas, making it a must-visit destination!
CONTINUED >
Baking cookies together is one of our most cherished holiday traditions. The sweet aroma of sugar, cinnamon, and freshly baked treats fills the entire house, creating a cozy and festive atmosphere. From classic sugar cookies to gingerbread men, we spend time decorating each cookie with care, adding sprinkles and icing to make them extra special. Another favorite tradition is crafting handmade ornaments. Every year, we create new ones to hang on the tree, each representing memories of that particular season and making our Christmas even more meaningful.
A treasured tradition from a neighbor I once knew was her beautiful homemade Christmas cards. Every year, she would handcraft each card with incredible care, creating unique designs that featured handdrawn winter scenes or intricately stitched holiday patterns. These cards were not just a simple greeting but a true labor of love, reflecting her creativity and personal touch. Receiving one felt like a gift in itself, and I’ve kept them over the years as cherished keepsakes. They remain some of my most meaningful holiday memories, reminding me of the warmth of handmade traditions.
One of my favorite Christmas traditions is cutting down our own tree. There's something truly magical about bundling up in cozy clothes, wandering through rows of pines at a local tree farm, and taking our time to find the perfect tree. The crisp air, the scent of fresh pine, and the excitement of making that final choice create an unforgettable experience every year. Once the tree is chosen, bringing it home and decorating it together turns into a joyful family event, filled with laughter and memories.
Creating your own Christmas traditions is a special way to celebrate the season and make it uniquely yours. Whether it’s baking cookies that fill the house with the sweet aroma of sugar and cinnamon, crafting handmade decorations to hang on the tree, or cutting down your own Christmas tree, these simple but meaningful rituals bring loved ones closer. These simple traditions embody the true spirit of Christmas for me: togetherness, creativity, and warm memories.
CRAFTING CHEER: DIY WINTER CRAFTS
ARTICLE BY ERICA BIBB | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
ORNAMENT CLUSTERS
SUPPLIES
• 22 gauge wire
• Ornaments of at least 3 varying shades and sizes
• Wire snips
STEP 1
Cut desired length of wire for a cluster, about 24”
STEP 2
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.
STEP 3
Continue adding ornaments to the wire, alternating sizes and colors until you have 4-6” of wire remaining.
STEP 4
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.
STEP 5
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!
DIY WINTER WREATH
SUPPLIES
• pruning scissors
• grapevine wreath form
• 22 gauge wire
• wire snips
• hot glue gun
• hot glue
• 3 types of fresh cut greens (you can also use artificial and have a wreath that will last you year after year!)
• fresh eucalyptus
• pinecones
• bells or ornaments
• ribbon
STEP 1
Trim greens removing any bald spots and extra length. Lengths of greens should vary between 5-10”.
STEP 2
Create clusters with the greens and eucalyptus, using all 3 of the greens. Create the cluster and then wrap the cluster with the 22 gauge wire onto the grapevine wreath form (starting at the top of your wreath), making sure that the wire is tight. Wrap 5-7 times to ensure everything will stay in place. Do not cut the wire. Set to the side to use for the next cluster.
STEP 3
Continue adding fresh green clusters going down your wreath and slightly alternating the angle the greens are pointing. Finish your final cluster and give yourself 3-4” of additional wire to twist close at the back of the wreath to finish and secure.
SIMPLE GORGEOUS IMPACTFUL
STEP 4
Place ribbon at the end of the clusters to hide any ribbon. We tied a knot with the ribbon around the wreath and then wrapped several times around the wreath.
STEP 5
Tie on ornaments, bells, or pinecones to hang from the wreath. This is optional, you may just want to add a pretty bow or even keep it as is at this point! When tying on the extra baubles, remember to cut your ribbon at varying lengths, so the bells or ornaments can hang at different levels. Tie the 3 ribbons together and then tie as one onto your wreath.
STEP 6
Add desired number of pinecones and put in place with hot glue. You can wire on the pinecones, but I like the control of placement is easier with the hot glue method.
Pro tip: keep taking a step back as you construct your wreath and keep in mind that sometimes less is more. Don’t be afraid to make edits and trust your eye!
For more inspiration visit www.porchandpatioco.com
DANCING THROUGH TRADITION
ARTICLE
CELEBRATING THE NUTCRACKER AND THE SCHOOL OF CLASSICAL BALLET’S LEGACY
BY SAMANTHA BOWERS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY LARA PHOTOGRAPHY
Photos by Clicked by Lara Photography
The School of Classical Ballet and Dance (SCBD), in Gruene Lake Village, has been a cornerstone of the New Braunfels arts community since its founding in 2010. Under the direction of Elizabeth, SCBD’s mission is to "Celebrate children and the arts by bringing the art of dance into the heart of New Braunfels and its families." Classical ballet is at the core of SCBD’s curriculum, but the school also offers tap and jazz, giving students a well-rounded dance education that builds grace, poise, and strength.
CONTINUED >
Photos by Clicked by Lara Photography
Photos by Clicked by Lara Photography
Photos by Clicked by Lara Photography
In addition to its robust dance programs, SCBD is home to the SCBD Youth Company, a pre-professional classical ballet company that offers young local artists the opportunity to perform in full-scale productions. Over the years, the Youth Company has brought numerous iconic ballets to life, including *The Nutcracker*, *Cinderella*, *Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons*, and an original ballet based on the story of Queen Esther, *Esther*. SCBD’s mission extends beyond perfecting technique; it seeks to instill a deep love of dance and a sense of personal accomplishment in its students.
One of the school’s most cherished annual events is the production of *The Nutcracker*, performed at the New Braunfels Civic Center. This treasured holiday tradition unites the community, bringing families together to celebrate the magic of the season. What makes SCBD’s production of *The Nutcracker* truly special is its cast of over 100 local performers, ages 5 to 21, all of whom are students of SCBD. For many in the community, attending *The Nutcracker* is as much a part of their holiday tradition as Christmas trees and caroling. The 7th season of this production promises to be a highlight of the holiday season, with four performances scheduled for December 20th-22nd.
SCBD’s commitment to the community goes beyond performances. The school encourages students to use their talents to give back by performing for senior citizens at local assisted living facilities and donating tickets to various community organizations. Local businesses also support SCBD through sponsorships and advertisements in the Nutcracker program, enabling the school to offer tickets to families who may not otherwise have the chance to experience a professional ballet performance.
Looking ahead, the School of Classical Ballet and Dance is eager to continue growing its programs and Youth Company, while maintaining its commitment to bringing the art of dance to the New Braunfels community. Be sure to make *The Nutcracker* part of your holiday tradition. Tickets for this year’s performances are available at http:// schoolofclassicalballetanddance.com/tickets. Don’t miss the opportunity to celebrate the season and support local talent!
Photos by Clicked by Lara Photography
1 2 5 S E l l i o t t K n o x B l v d n e w m a n c m p y c o m
8 3 0 6 2 0 8 4 4 4
B o t o x | D y s p o r t | X e o m i n
D e r m a l F i l l e r s
B i o s t i m u l a t o r s
F a t D i s s o l v e r s
P R F T r e a t m e n t s
H a i r R e s t o r a t i o n
M e d i c a l W e i g h t L o s s
H o r m o n e T h e r a p y
I n t i m a t e R e j u v e n a t i o n
L a s e r T r e a t m e n t s
B o d y S c u l p t i n g
V i t a m i n I V s
V i t a m i n I n j e c t i o n s
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E y e l a s h S e r v i c e s
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C l i n i c a l S k i n C a r e
C o s m e t i c s
a n d M o r e
B o t o x $ 9 / U n i t
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S t i l l Y o u O n l y B e t t e r
Everyone’s Perfect Picks HOLIDAY
ARTICLE BY SAMANTHA BOWERS
Discover thoughtful and unique gift ideas for everyone on your list this holiday season, from stocking stuffers to special surprises.
This holiday season, shopping local is a wonderful way to find unique, thoughtful gifts while supporting the small businesses that make your community special. Whether you’re looking for handcrafted goods, festive décor, or something creative and personal, local shops offer one-of-a-kind items that reflect the care and craftsmanship of their makers. By choosing to shop locally, you’re not only giving meaningful gifts but also investing in the heart of your community, making this season truly memorable for everyone.
01 CLASSIC MEN’S HAT. A classic men’s hat from The Local, perfect for stylish comfort and everyday versatility. / 02 Stylish and durable men’s shoes from The Heritage Supply, combining comfort and timeless design // 03 BAR TOOLS. Elegant bar tools from The Heritage Supply, ideal for the man who enjoys crafting perfect cocktails. / 04 GOLF GEAR. Premium golf gear from Landa Pro Shop, perfect for the man passionate about improving his game. // 05 PREMIUM SPORTS EXPERIENCE. Give him the ultimate gift: an unforgettable experience enjoying his favorite sport with premium access. / 06 BOOKS & PUZZLES.Engaging books and puzzles from The Local, perfect for sparking creativity and fun for curious kids. // 07 WILD BLOOM GIFTS. Vibrant, unique gifts from Wild Bloom Market, perfect for adding fun and color to any teen’s life.
04 05 06 03 02 07 01 CONTINUED >
08 CANDLES. Thoughtfully crafted candles from New Braunfels Candle Co., a perfect gift for friends, coworkers, or family. / 09 HANDFORGED IRON GUADALUPE ROSE. Elegant wooden cross with hand-forged iron Guadalupe rose by Jan Barboglio, a cherished piece from La Belle Vie. // 10 POPCORN. Delicious, gourmet popcorn tubs from Popbelly’s Popcorn, perfect for snacking or gifting on any occasion. / 11 JEWELRY. Stylish and versatile eNewton jewelry from The Local, perfect for adding elegance to any outfit. // 12 LEATHER PURSES. Beautifully handcrafted leather purses or wallets from The Heritage Supply, a thoughtful gift for the women you cherish. / 13 CHRISTMAS DÉCOR. Festive and unique Christmas décor from Wild Bloom Market, perfect for adding holiday cheer to any home. // 14 SKINCARE PRODUCTS. Premium ZO Skin Health products from Newman and Co., delivering radiant, healthy skin for a luxurious experience. / 15 GIFT BASKET. Relaxing Sleepy Time or other unique gift baskets from The Tea Charmer, perfect for soothing moments.
Elevate your eye care Experience and take your Eyewear to the next level!
At Elevated Eye Care, Drs. Jennifer and Kymber Blaschke provide a personalized exam experience along with the latest technology to evaluate your vision and eye health needs. They see patients of all ages and specialize in: Pediatrics | Myopia Management | Vision Therapy Specialty Contacts | The Management of Ocular Diseases
www.elevatedeyecaretx.com | 830.221.9358 1750 E Common St, New Braunfels, Texas 78130 V@elevatedeyecaretx
that’s a WRAP
DIY Gift Wrapping That Stands Out During
The Season
ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON
‘Tis the season to get crafty, clever or characterized! Wellwrapped holiday packages create immediate enthusiasm and somehow seem to make gifts more meaningful. Whether going for shiny, vintage, colorful, rustic, playful or eco-friendly impressions, the following are some Do-It-Yourself gift-wrapping ideas to make the wrapping process even more satisfying. Simply applying jute twine to gifts provides a ‘less is more’ vibe.
ADD NATURAL TOUCHES TO CRAFT PAPER:
For gifts with a rustic, organic feel, use seasonal accents, such as sprigs, pine cones and cinnamon sticks, tied up with twine, encircling recycled paper for the wrapping.
FIRST INITIAL DECORATION:
In lieu of a gift tag, attach an oversized paper mâché letter of the recipient’s first initial to the top of the box. The letter then can serve as customized décor, too.
POLKA DOTS:
Wrap gifts in plain craft paper and then cut out big, multicolored polka dots to glue down. It’s hard not to smile at big, bright dots.
CARDBOARD BOX SNOWPERSON:
Wrap three or four boxes in white paper, with different gifts inside, and then stack them. Tape the boxes together,
the SEASON
tapering to the top. Glue buttons on the bottom ones, create a snowperson’s face on the top one, with carrot nose cut out of orange paper. Attach a real hat, if desired. Tie wider, festive bow around the snowperson’s ‘neck.’ Add a real corncob pipe for a bonus finishing touch, if preferred.
MINI TREE GIFT WRAPPING:
Pine needles and small tips of real tree branches make quick and easy mini Christmas trees that can be glued onto Christmas gifts. They will smell nice, too.
BOOK PAGE WRAPPING PAPER:
Repurpose old book pages by cutting out
shapes of dreidels, snowflakes, ornaments, candles or reindeer to paste on gifts.
DIY STAMP WRAPPING PAPER:
Wrap gifts in solid colors of paper. Secure ink stamps and an ink pad in a themed color(s), and stamp the paper as much or as little as desired.
UNBOXED:
Apply other types of containers, rather than boxes or bags, for gift wrapping; examples: canisters, pillow cases, baskets, fabric scraps, maps, glass containers, towels, blankets, scarves, Bento bags (also called triangle bags or origami bags).
DECEMBER 2024
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
DECEMBER 5TH
Wassailfest
500 Main Plaza, New Braunfels, TX | 6:00 PM
Celebrate one of the most cherished traditions in New Braunfels, visit downtown shops for a tasty sampling of the seasons best wassail.
DECEMBER 6TH
Neon Christmas Tree Class
1551 N. Walnut Ave, New Braunfels, TX | 5:00 PM
Relax and paint this kid friendly cutie tree with Painting with a Twists Neon Christmas Tree. BYO snacks and drinks.
DECEMBER 6TH-8TH
New Braunfels Ren Faire
1370 Church Hill Dr, New Braunfels, TX
Experience some Christmas cheer the olde world way. Adventure awaits with games and rides, Santa Claus and his elves, valiant knights , archery, beautiful mermaids and fairies, friendly dragons, feasting, and so much more! Come one, come all for non-stop, day-long family adventure!
DECEMBER 7TH
Annual Gruene Pony Express Ride
1601 Hunter Rd. New Braunfels, TX | 10:00 AM
Gruene Historic District will receive a Pony Express rider from the Heritage Trail Ride Association of New Braunfels at 10am. Relay riders carry a “Christmas Greetings” message from the Governor or Texas. A temporary Post Office will be set up next to Gruene Outfitters in Gruene to cancel stamps for mailing. Bring your Christmas cards to have the stamps cancelled with the commemorative stamp representing Gruene.
DECEMBER 7TH
Breakfast with The Grinch
360 Aquatic Circle, New Braunfels, TX | 8:00 AM
Straight from Mount Crumpit, the Grinch brings his special blend of mischief to your morning meal. Requires pre-registration on newbraunfels.gov events page.
DECEMBER 20TH-22ND
The Nutcracker Ballet
375 S. Castell St., New Braunfels, TX
The School of Classical Ballet & Dance is honored to present the timeless Christmas ballet “The Nutcracker” Four showings at the New Braunfels Civic Center.
CONFECTION
Elevate your holiday hot chocolate with a charcuterie experience
As winter settles in and the air chills, there’s nothing more comforting than a steaming cup of hot chocolate. Take it up a notch and indulge in a hot cocoa charcuterie board. Picture a delightful spread of various hot chocolate flavors, mix-ins, and toppings, inviting you to create a personalized, delicious mug of joy.
OLD-FASHIONED HOT COCOA
Ingredients
• ¼ cup 60% cacao chocolate morsels
• ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa
• 1/3 cup white granulated sugar
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups half and half
• 1 pinch salt
• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Directions
Heat all ingredients (except vanilla extract) in a 2-quart saucepan over medium-low heat until almost boiling. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
CREATING THE PERFECT HOT COCOA CHARCUTERIE BOARD
Gone are the days of selecting only between marshmallows and whipped cream as toppings. With a hot cocoa charcuterie board, you can delve into a world of flavors, textures and spices that will make each sip an adventure.
Begin by selecting a variety of flavors and mix-ins, such as mini marshmallows, salted caramels, white chocolate morsels and peppermints. Pair your hot cocoa with delectable treats like cookies, gum drops, crème-filled wafer rolls or chocolate-covered espresso beans. Consider adding biscotti, chocolate-dipped spoons or chocolate-coated pretzels as well as whipped toppings and an assortment of sprinkles.
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY MINDY WESTER
