'Tis the Season
SHOPPING
HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE
ARTS + CULTURE
EXPERIENCE HOLIDAY MAGIC WITH THE NUTCRACKER!
CULINARY CREATIONS
SIMPLE YET FANCY HOLIDAY APPETIZERS
DECEMBER 2024
'Tis The Season
The holidays are here and the spirit of the season is among us! We are thrilled to present our latest issue, designed to inspire and connect our cherished community.
The traditions we set for our own families often mirror some of what we experienced as a child whether it is the smells, the sounds, the lights, the holiday activities or a combination of it all that reflect that best.
This month, we wanted to highlight the magic of the season and what our city has to offer that helps spread holiday cheer. In the spirit of the season, our holiday gift guide offers an exquisite selection of ideas. Whether you’re searching for the perfect present or a little something special for yourself, our carefully curated list features local artisans and businesses that embody the essence of luxury and thoughtfulness.
We also had the pleasure of interviewing Erica Radis, founder of the Working Moms of San Antonio networking group. Erica shared her dedication to empowering women and fostering connections within our community, and we invite you to discover how her networking group is making a positive impact.
And for a touch of magic, we spotlight The NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet, featuring Heather Stolle’s School of Dance, right here in Stone Oak! This timeless holiday tradition captivates audiences of all ages.
As we embrace the spirit of giving, we hope this issue serves as a source of inspiration and connection. Thank you for being a valued part of our community, and we wish you a holiday season filled with joy, warmth, and unforgettable moments.
From our family to yours - Happy Holidays!
SARAH MOTTU, PUBLISHER @STONEOAKCITYLIFESTYLE
December 2024
PUBLISHER
Sarah Mottu | sarah.mottu@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Jonathan Mottu | jonathan.mottu@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Jessie Mangum | jessie.mangum@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Rethlyn Photography, Epic Werks Media
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe
LAYOUT DESIGNER Lillian Gibbs
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: North San Antonio Chamber's Leadership Lab’s Team Blue performs a skit to promote the program. 2: The 2024 Iron Strong Golf Tournament & Dinner for ThriveWell Cancer Foundation. 3: The Lash Barn pop-up at Nourish Collective for their event celebrating women’s wellness and selfcare. 4: Jones Getaways took a journey through Cape Town, Botswana and Zimbabwe and majestic Victoria Falls. 5: Laura Squire walks the runway for the Faithville Fashion Show benefitting Remmie Moore. 6: Mary entrusted Pink Zebra Moving to move cherished memories of son, who passed in Afghanistan. 7: MaxLiving 5 Essentials Workshop successfully promoted health through chiropractic care, nutrition, and community support.
@FAITHVILLEPARK
KAITLYN CLARKE
Experience all the FUN of shooting sports with Texas flare & fashion.
Welcome to Buck & Doe’s, where customers come first in a warm inviting atmosphere. We offer top-notch service and an exceptional shopping experience.
Browse our extensive selection of expertly curated fashion for men and women, along with unique gifts, handbags, jewelry, and accessories. Need custom services? Our on-site gunsmith and bow tech are ready to help, plus we offer knife sharpening. Looking for something unique? We can assist with special orders! Join us for training classes, private lessons, or host your event— corporate or family-sized. Everyone is welcome!
During her tenure with the team, she has assisted in closing more than $175 million in sales.
Lauren is known for elevating experiences and achieving excellent results through best-inclass marketing. Together with her team, she has achieved a 37% higher average sales price within the most sought-after Stone Oak-Area neighborhoods.
As
A ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES
The Lash Lounge Transforms Your Morning Routine with Confidence -Boosting Services
Their experienced staff provide a luxury experience for their clients. Each appointment begins with a consultation, where expert stylists work with you to design the perfect look to celebrate and elevate your natural beauty. The Lash Lounge’s services reduce your morning makeup routine, and leave you feeling confident and ready to take on the day.
CANYON SPRINGS
At EcoClean Pro Floor Care, the team consists of local hardwood floor cleaning experts dedicated to restoring the beauty of homes. Their specialized process removes residue and light scratches, revitalizing worn floors. With a strong focus on quality, they ensure complete satisfaction with every project. As a family-owned business serving San Antonio for over 10 years, they bring care and professionalism to each job, making them a trusted choice for achieving beautiful floors.
Scan to read more
Morales Padia Law Now Offering Estate Planning
At Morales Padia Law, the team is dedicated to helping San Antonio families plan for the future with care and compassion. Specializing in estate planning—particularly for guardians of minors—they guide clients through every step to ensure their loved ones are always protected. In addition to family law, criminal defense, and probate, they take pride in offering personalized support that provides peace of mind and security for families’ futures.
Scan to read more
16-NIGHTS GALAPAGOS INNER LOOP & MACHU
HOLIDAY Guide GIFT 5
ARTICLE BY JESSIE MANGUM
2 3 4 5
1. THE COLLECTION TX
Featuring women’s accessories like the Parker & Hyde Wimberley woven mini tote.
2. HONEY MERCANTILE
Discover an array of holiday decor and unique vintage finds.
3. THE OLD ENGLISH TEA SHOPPE
Offering tea sets that feature three types of British teas.
4. THE FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH SPA
Give the ultimate Glam Package including Non-Surgical Facelift and 20 units of Botox.
5. APRICOT LANE
Find a variety of women’s gifts, perfect for any girl’s stocking.
AESTHETICS. PRECISION. HEALTH.
SCHEDULE YOUR COMPLIMENTARY SMILE DESIGN CONSULTATION
www.mysmileartist.com 210.496.9967
1130 East Sonterra Blvd. Suite 110 San Antonio, TX 78258
@mysmileartist @mohamedimamdds
At My Smile Artist, we are committed to providing a comfortable, high-end experience for every patient. Our office delivers exceptional care in a dentist-driven, patientcentered environment. Led by Dr. Imam, an expert in comprehensive and cosmetic dentistry, our team caters to patients seeking both routine care and full-mouth rehabilitations. Whether you're looking for a complete transformation or routine dental care, we cater to patients who demand the best. We invite you to discover a dental experience that prioritizes comfort, aesthetics, and comprehensive solutions.
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Cosmetic Dentistry
Dental Implants
Sedation for a Comfortable Experience
Invisalign
Experience
The Holiday Tradition
ARTICLE BY JESSIE MANGUM | PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE NUTCRACKER! MAGICAL CHRISTMAS BALLET
The Nutcracker wouldn’t be the same without the local children’s cast! A group of San Antonio young dancers will be dancing alongside the talented international professionals for the performance of a lifetime.
Looking for a one-of-a-kind gift or experience this holiday season? Check out The NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet live at the Majestic Theatre! Celebrate this beloved Christmas tradition with an amazing international cast, blending world-class ballet, fun puppetry, eye-catching costumes, and jaw-dropping acrobatics. It’s the perfect way to share the holiday magic and Tchaikovsky’s classic music with friends and family. Plus, a cast of local dancers will be dancing alongside the professionals! The NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet’s special “Dance with Us” program gives thousands of local kids the chance to perform alongside the professional company in roles tailored to them.
Heather Stolle’s School of Dance, right here in Stone Oak, will be featured in this year's performance. Heather Stolle has been collaborating with The Nutcracker Ballet for more than ten years. Her dancers first participate in an in-house audition for roles in the ballet. Following initial selections, the ballet company holds final auditions to select the dancers who will perform alongside the professionals in the local shows.
Performances are held at the Majestic Theater on December 27th and 28th. Be sure to purchase tickets early for a magical Christmas experience that will sure to become a holiday tradition.
The Business of Giving Back
ARTICLE BY JESSIE MANGUM
PHOTOGRAPHY BY EPIC WERKS MEDIA & RETHLYN PHOTOGRAPHY
EMPOWERING THE WORKING MOMS OF SAN ANTONIO
“It’s more than just business networking; it’s about personal growth, making genuine friendships, and knowing you’ve got a group of women cheering you on.
Working Moms of San Antonio was born from the founder, Erika Radis’ own experiences as she faced the challenges of balancing a career, family, and a personal life. Recognizing the lack of resources for working mothers, she sought to create a supportive community where moms could connect, share resources, and thrive both professionally and personally.
Working moms can face their own unique challenges - juggling work, family life, and trying to squeeze in a little self-care. WMOSA aims to take on these issues by offering coworking spaces, family-friendly networking events, and workshops aimed at business growth. The goal is to empower working mothers and help them feel connected and successful.
WMOSA actively engages with the local community through various initiatives. Events like “Brewing Business” encourage networking among local moms, while the bilingual “Madres Unidas” events foster connections for Spanish-speaking mothers. Their recent Grand Opening highlighted women-owned businesses, showcasing local talent.
The organization prioritizes giving back, ensuring community projects are woven into their operations. Members share this passion, creating a culture of support and involvement. Whether it’s mentoring other moms, organizing events, or working with local businesses, celebrating members wins is what it’s all about.
As WMOSA looks to the future, they aim to expand their membership and introduce a mentorship program for young women. By inspiring the next generation of entrepreneurs, they continue to advocate for working moms while remaining committed to their mission of community support.
Working Moms of San Antonios/Erika Radis
Erika Radis is an entrepreneur, podcaster, office supply enthusiast, and a proud working mom. Her passion is helping moms in business build meaningful connections and grow!
Her “everything is figureoutable” mindset has pushed her to grow the Working Moms of San Antonio community and she looks forward to being able to reach and help more moms in the future!
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HOLIDAY DECORATING MAGIC WITH ALEJANDRA KLEINERT
Deck the Halls
ARTICLE BY JESSIE MANGUM | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALEJANDRA KLEINERT
My goal is
to create warmth and coziness in a home.
As the holidays near, many people aim to capture that cozy, Hallmark movie feeling in their homes. But whether it’s a busy schedule or just not feeling inspired, some people need a little extra help. That is where Holiday Rescue comes in. Alejandra Kleinert, who lives and works in the Stone Oak area, is the creative force behind Holiday Rescue. She and her team specialize in all things holiday decorating, from twinkling trees to inviting entries and everything in between. With her keen eye for design and a passion for creating warm, cozy atmospheres, Alejandra offers invaluable insights into beautiful holiday decorating.
For Alejandra and her team, the key to a festive home starts with understanding the space and her client’s vision. “I consider the current colors and style of the home and discuss their preferred themes and color palettes,” she explains. “My goal is to create warmth and coziness in a home. I like to use lighting to enhance the atmosphere.” She adds that creating an inviting entryway will make the whole home feel festive and inviting.
When it comes to different home styles - modern, traditional, or rustic - Alejandra believes in a collaborative approach. “I meet with clients to discuss their preferences and show them ideas, coming up with a balance between their wants and current trends.” She starts decorating homes in the fall, but her busiest time is the week after Thanksgiving, when the holiday spirit truly comes alive. “We really want to make our client’s holiday dreams become reality”.
This season, Alejandra has noticed a surge in bold
colors and vintage themes, with tinsel making a stylish comeback. Alongside these vibrant hues, pastel shades, like a mint and pink combination, and allwhite trees are gaining popularity, bringing a fresh, modern twist to holiday decor. Natural elements, such as whimsical mushrooms and luxurious velvet ornaments, are also trending, adding a touch of warmth and texture. Fairy lights are also taking center stage this season, giving an update to the classic string light. Alejandra’s personal favorite remains the classic combination of deep burgundy and rich greens, which evoke a timeless holiday spirit. This blend of colors not only creates a cozy atmosphere but also pays homage to the classic beauty of the season.
To simplify the holiday decorating process, Alejandra recommends beginning with a clearly defined color palette and theme. This helps create a cohesive look throughout the home. She also suggests opting for a pre-lit, artificial tree to save time on stringing lights, allowing you to dive straight into the fun part of decorating! Starting with a striking tree topper is key, as it sets the tone for the entire tree. “Ribbons can really elevate your tree’s look and are incredibly versatile,” she explains. She encourages using a mix of sizes, textures, and colors to add depth and interest. By layering different types of ribbons—such as sheer, satin, or metallic—you can create a visually stunning effect that enhances the overall holiday aesthetic.
Alejandra primarily shops locally, starting as early as September. She also sources unique items online and brings back traditional decorations from
We really want to make our client’s holiday dreams become reality. “ ”
trips to her native Mexico, especially for her clients in the restaurant industry. She loves using these unique elements to keep with tradition and theme.
For businesses, Alejandra enjoys creating customized ornaments featuring their logos and branding, adding a personal touch. Hand-painted ornaments can make trees feel really custom.
“What I love most is everything about decorating!” Alejandra exclaims genuinely. She finds joy in setting the mood with festive holiday music as she brings spaces to life. For Alejandra, shopping for decorative elements is never a chore; it’s a treasure hunt where
she discovers unique items that spark her creativity. Each piece tells a story, and she loves the opportunity to weave those stories into her designs.
As the holidays roll around, Alejandra Kleinert’s tips are a fantastic guide for bringing that festive vibe to your home or business. Her knack for design helps personalize each space, making it feel just right for her clients. By mixing textures, colors, and lighting, Alejandra creates cozy, joyful atmospheres that are perfect for invoking the holiday spirit. Whether you’re hosting family or decking out a business, her creative flair ensures the season is full of warmth and fun.
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
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NOVEMBER 15TH - JANUARY 5TH
Rotary Ice Rink at Travis Park
Travis Park | 9:00 AM
Since 2019, the Rotary Club of San Antonio has been bringing a winter wonderland to the downtown area with a must-see ice rink. Kids and adults alike will enjoy skating on real ice under a blanket of twinkling lights. Be sure to purchase tickets in advance for this activity as a limited number of skaters at a time.
NOVEMBER 16TH
Zoo Lights
San Antonio Zoo | 9:00 AM
Zoo Lights will transform the San Antonio Zoo into a magical winter wonderland from November 16 to December 31. Visit the San Antonio Zoo to embrace the holiday spirit while exploring vibrant light displays, festive tunes, and whimsical decorations.
NOVEMBER 23RD - JANUARY 5TH
ICE! featuring Dr. Seuss’ “How The Grinch Stole Christmas!”
JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa | 9:00 AM
Experience the Texas Hill Country’s debut of ICE! featuring Dr. Seuss’ “How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” Delight in colorful ice sculptures of 10 whimsical scenes and enjoy activities like snow tubing, gingerbread decorating, and photos with Santa. Make unforgettable memories at the JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa this holiday season!
CONTINUED
DECEMBER 7TH
WinterFest San Antonio
North Central Baptist Hospital | 10:00 AM
WinterFest San Antonio, presented by Baptist Health System, is a beloved community festival where thousands of local families gather to enjoy a day of holiday fun! A portion of the proceeds will benefit children with disabilities or delays and their families at the Brighton Center.
DECEMBER 7TH
Merry Makers’ Market
11854 Wurzbach Rd., San Antonio, TX 78230 | 10:00 AM
Come shop and mingle with local vendors just in time for the holidays! Finish off your holiday gift list by shopping small and spending time with handmade businesses. We will be showcasing the new Working Moms of San Antonio Coworking Space and giving guided tours for those interested in learning about co-space rentals and networking events. Free event.
DECEMBER 7TH - 8TH, 14TH - 15TH, 20TH - 23RD
Christmas at the Caverns
Natural Bridge Caverns | 10:00 AM
Celebrate Christmas like never before at Natural Bridge Caverns in the scenic Texas Hill Country! Enjoy our 30foot Christmas tree and stroll through a 1/3 mile light trail, round up Santa’s reindeer in our 5,000 sq. ft. outdoor maze, enjoy live music by Twisted Trails, roast s’mores, and see Santa!
Want to be featured?
that’s a WRAP
DIY Gift Wrapping That Stands Out During The Season
ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON
‘TIS
‘Tis the season to get crafty, clever or characterized! Well-wrapped 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-ItYourself 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, 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.
‘tis the SEASON
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).
HOLIDAY APPETIZERS
SURE TO BE CROWD PLEASERS THIS HOLIDAY SEASON, INDULGE IN THESE DELICIOUS, STRESS-FREE RECIPES simple, yet fancy,
ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER
PHOTOGRAPHY BY NATALIE FINAZZO FOX
Pear & Brie Cheese Salad Skewers
INGREDIENTS
• 2 pears (or substitute green apple)
• 8 ounces of brie cheese
• 2 cups baby arugula
• 1/4 cup raw walnuts, chopped
• Balsamic glaze
INSTRUCTIONS
• Cut pear and brie into 1/2-inch cubes. Leaving the rind makes skewers less sticky to handle!
• Take (4-inch) skewer, add pear, arugula, and cheese.
• Gently press chopped walnuts onto brie cheese to stick.
• Drizzle balsamic glaze overtop.
Cranberry & Pecan Cheese Crostini
INGREDIENTS
• 1 (8 oz.) container light cream cheese spread
• ½ cup chopped cranberries
• 1 Tbsp. grated orange peel
• ½ cup coarsely chopped pecans, toasted
• Rosemary and olive oil crostinis
INSTRUCTIONS
• Top crostinis with a dollop of cream cheese.
• Add cranberries and pecans.
• Garnish with grated orange peel.
