LIFESTYLE
Dwayne.Heigh@TeamEsplanade.com
Megan.Michaux@TeamEsplanade.com
Letter From the Lifestyle Team
MEGAN MICHAUX YOUR LIFESTYLE MANAGER
Happy Holidays!
As we prepare to bid farewell to fall, I am excited to welcome the winter season, filled with warmth, gratitude, and celebration. This time of year brings a special magic, especially as we approach Thanksgiving—a holiday dedicated to family togetherness and the sharing of cherished moments.
Thanksgiving reminds us to pause and reflect on the many blessings in our lives. It’s a wonderful opportunity to gather with loved ones, share stories, and create lasting memories. I hope you all find time to connect with family and friends, enjoying the delicious feasts and the joy that comes from being together.
As we transition into December, the festive spirit of Christmas fills the air. There’s something truly enchanting about the twinkling lights and the joyful decorations that adorn our community. It’s a time when kindness and goodwill abound, and I’m always
heartened to see how everyone comes together, spreading cheer and warmth.
I’m thrilled to announce our upcoming “It’s a Wonderful Lifestyle” Signature Event, where we will celebrate the season with a variety of festive activities. Join us for gingerbread house making and delightful cookie exchanges, where we can share our favorite recipes and enjoy the creativity of our community.
And, of course, let’s keep our fingers crossed for a little snow this year, adding an extra touch of magic to our winter wonderland. Wishing you all a joyful holiday season filled with love, laughter, and community spirit. I look forward to celebrating these special moments with each of you!
Furry Friends
Meet
Mini
LOVED BY SUSAN ARCURI
I adopted Mini in April and she was just seven and a half pounds. She was very timid and scared of everything. Since then, we’ve been working with a trainer to build her confidence and help her feel safe around others. Mini loves walks, soaking up the sun, car rides, and, of course, treats! She’s even put on about two pounds. Mini is a natural little watch dog, barking at everything that passes by the house, but she’s also the sweetest lovebug. She’s truly my forever girl.
HAVE A Furry FAMILY MEMBER THAT YOU WANT TO FEATURE?
Contact your Lifestyle Manager to be featured in the next edition of the magazine. Answer a few questions about your furry, feathery, or scaly friend and share a couple pictures.
Don’t have a furry family of your own, but know a community Member who does? Nominate them to be the next Featured Furry Friend. Contact the Member to suggest the feature or your Lifestyle Manager to nominate anonymously.
Susan Arcuri
The Members of our community are truly what make this a wonderful place to live. In each edition, we will spotlight a Member, couple or family to showcase the amazing people that call our community home. If you would like to be featured or want to nominate another Member, please contact your Lifestyle Manager.
Susan has lived in the Charlotte area since 1985. Susan and her husband, Tom, were in business for themselves with home furnishings. After her husband passed away, she continued to run the company and in 2019 retired. Susan has two sons, two amazing daughters-in-law, and of course five of the smartest, prettiest, most handsome grandchildren ever!
Susan loves to travel, read, play word games, and entertain. She is a hospice volunteer, working part time at a non-profit.
If you see Mini and Susan walking, you can bet she is listening to Johnny Cash, Willy, Alan Jackson, Motown, or Jimmy Buffet!
Susan loves to help with events and is a social butterfly!
Wonderful It’s a Lifestyle
Saturday, December 7
6 - 9 p.m. The Venue
Toast to the wonderful life at Esplanade. Come celebrate the season with friends and neighbors while enjoying the mixologist’s demonstration of the signature cocktail of the evening, followed by hors d’oeuvres, music and fun! Festive attire is welcome!
Interest Groups & Social Clubs
Doing more of what makes us happy is called the key to life by many. Share your passion and take the first step by attending or creating a club/group today.
Meet fellow Members with similar interests by creating or joining an interest group or club! Your Lifestyle Manager will assist in coordinating when and where is available for your club or interest group to meet at the Sales Gallery. All groups and clubs must be open to any Member of the community who is interested in joining. To receive an application or for more information about creating a club or interest group, please contact your Lifestyle Manager. Check out the current clubs below!
Current Clubs & Groups
BOOK CLUB
Tuesdays, November 19 & December 17 (Third Tuesday) | 2 p.m. Gathering Room
Join the Book Club to discuss each month’s assigned book led by Teresa Cole. Books chosen are available on Kindle, books.com, Barnes and Noble, Amazon, or anywhere books are sold. To learn more or to join, please contact Teresa at cole3761@bellsouth.net.
BUNCO CLUB
Mondays, November 11 & December 9 | 6:30 p.m. Gathering Room
Gather with your neighbors for a lively evening of Bunco! Join our friendly group where everyone brings their favorite snacks and drinks to share. Just remember, for safety, no glass is allowed in the Venue. Roll the dice, enjoy good company, and create memories with your community. Please text the group leader, Judy, if you have any questions at 412-952-1125.
CRAFT NORTHGATE: WINTER WREATHS
Tuesday, November 12 | 10:30 a.m.
Gathering Room
Join us for a creative afternoon at our Winter Wreath-Making! Gather with friends to design your own stunning winter wreaths using fresh greens, festive decorations, and unique embellishments. Whether you’re a crafting pro or a beginner, this event is a wonderful opportunity to unleash your creativity while enjoying seasonal cheer. Bring your festive spirit and leave with a beautiful wreath to adorn your home, perfect for celebrating the winter season!
KNIGHTS OF NORTHGATE BREAKFAST
Tuesdays, November 12 & December 10 | 9 a.m.
The Americana Restaurant
Calling all Esplanade at Northgate men! Join your neighbors at The Americana Restaurant for some great food and great conversation. See event on Member website for Club Leader details to register.
THE LADIES OF NORTHGATE: WHITE ELEPHANT PARTY
Saturday, December 14 | 6 p.m.
The Venue
We’re excited for a night of laughter and surprises! Bring a wrapped gift and join the fun as we exchange quirky, funny, and fabulous presents in this playful holiday tradition. Will you end up with something amazing or hilariously unexpected? With great company, holiday treats, and plenty of laughs, this event is the perfect way to celebrate the season and enjoy a fun-filled evening with the ladies!
MAHJONG
First, Third & Last Monday | 6:30 p.m. Gathering Room
Mahjong is all the rave! As you learn the game and think about how you play and the choices you make, it’s important to remember a couple of points. In the long term, it’s a game of skill. In the short term, luck is a significant factor. With that in mind, this introduction is intended to get you started off and winning games in no time. Contact Rosalind Rokita at roz.rokita@frontier.com for more information.
NORTHGATE THEATRE CLUB
I Hate Hamlet: Saturday, November 9 at 7:30 p.m.
The Scrooge: Sunday, December 15 at 2 p.m.
Gather with your neighbors for a delightful evening of holiday theater! Experience the magic of the season as we attend a series of festive plays that capture the spirit of the holidays. From heartwarming classics to lively performances, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Share in the joy of live theater, engage in lively discussions over dinner, and create lasting memories.
VETERANS GROUP COFFEE HOUSE SOCIAL
Thursdays, November 21 & December 19 | 9 - 11 a.m.
Waxhaw Baptist Church | 8213 Old Waxhaw Monroe Road
Veterans are invited to join Group Leader David Hiza for an opportunity to make new friends, participate in raffle prize drawings, access resources, and enjoy the company of fellow veteran Members. Contact David at 704-562-6946 to register and arrange carpooling.
Exclusive Concierge Offerings
Part of the Esplanade Lifestyle is rolling out the red carpet and giving our Members VIP access to exclusive offers and services! We are excited to build and foster relationships with local organizations and businesses to offer special rates for our community. If you know of one that would like to partner with Esplanade at Northgate, please contact your Lifestyle Manager.
HOME SERVICES
HYDROSHIELD
ECO-FRIENDLY COATINGS
Hydroshield offers innovative surface protection that takes highmaintenance surfaces in home and transforms them from good to amazing. Their customers receive peace of mind that their surfaces will be easy-to-clean, stain resistant, and guaranteed to stay looking new. Call Noel and Carmen Torres to schedule an appointment for your free consultation. 704-909-9289
QUANTUM
SECURITY AND INNOVATIONS
Esplanade Members can choose from three EXCLUSIVE packages: Sonos Home Theater Package, Sonos Package, or Alula Security Package. Members who purchase an exclusive package will also receive a 10% discount on any additional purchase. To view QSI’s state-of-theart systems, visit the Model Homes or stop by the Sales Gallery for a brochure detailing these packages. 704-534-2468
THE TROON CARD
As a benefit of living in Esplanade, current Members receive 25% off standard Troon Card prices. It’s the ultimate way for golfers to experience the World of Troon at the best rates. More than 150 courses are participating in the program. Members can reserve tee times within threedays of their desired date of play and enjoy savings up to 50% off golf fees. Choose from state, region-specific, or national Troon Cards to unlock preferred rates at more than 150 golf courses worldwide. For a complete list of benefits, courses and rates, and to purchase your Troon Card, visit troon. com/product/troon-card-esplanade.
WINDOW COVERINGS
CAROLINA SHUTTERS & BLINDS
Esplanade Members can choose from exclusive package discounts. Contact Nicole Evans-Lane for a free design consultation. When contacting Nicole, Members are asked to supply the offer code: AFFINITY 303. 704-840-8000 nicole@csandb.us carolinashutterandblinds.com
DRY CLEANING
COLLINS CLEANERS VALET SERVICE
Members receive FREE pickup and delivery service directly to their door. Services include dry cleaning, linens, laundry, alterations, shoes, and household items. Stop by the Sales Gallery for the sign-up sheet with the schedule and pricing list or sign up on their website. 704-398-1525 collinscleaners.com
PET SERVICES
CAMP BOW WOW
10% off all services (including grooming) and 5% off all products. Members are given the Wag Bag when they go under contract. 704-708-9663 campbowwow.com/matthews
HOUNDS TOWN USA
10% off Weekday Daycare, 20% off Saturday Daycare, 50% off first bath. Valid at the Indian Trail location only. 704-218-2100 houndstownusa.com
Recent Events
Signature Event BOOTS & BBQ
This Signature Event was a huge success, filled with lively energy and fun. Members arrived in their best western attire, enjoying the smoky aroma of sizzling barbecue while mingling under twinkling lights. The highlight of the evening was line dancing, where everyone kicked up their boots and moved in perfect harmony to classic country tunes. Laughter echoed as friends, old and new, joined in the fun, creating an unforgettable night of great food, music and community spirit.
Recent Events
Fall Soaps & Body Soaps WORKSHOP
Members engaged in an enjoyable and creative experience. The event provided an opportunity for individuals to explore their artistic talents as they crafted unique, seasonal products infused with rich autumn scents. This experience not only highlighted the joys of crafting, but also celebrated the essence of the fall season.
Fall Floral ARRANGEMENTS
Members gathered to create stunning floral displays using vibrant autumn blooms, rustic accents, and seasonal foliage. They shared creativity, learned new techniques, and brought the warmth of fall into their homes with handcrafted centerpieces.
Pool VOLLEYBALL
Members splashed into the pool for an exciting game. Laughter filled the air as friendly competition sparked playful teasing and cheers!
Movie Night ON THE LAWN
Under the stars, Members gathered for a cozy movie night, spread out with a big screen glowing and containers of buttery popcorn.
Pickleball
SOCIAL
This social was a fantastic success, bringing together players of all levels for a morning of fun, friendly competition and lively matches.
Upcoming Events
All activities and events are subject to change. For full details, please visit EsplanadeNorthgateLifestyle.com/events.
WINE AROUND THE WORLD: AUSTRALIA
Friday, November 1 | 6 p.m.
The Venue
Join us for an exciting gathering, featuring the bold and vibrant wines of Australia! This event will take you on a tasting journey through renowned wine regions like Barossa Valley, Margaret River, and McLaren Vale. Explore Australia’s iconic Shiraz, crisp Chardonnay, and other unique varietals that capture the country’s sun-soaked landscapes and diverse terroir. Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or eager to discover something new, come enjoy great company, insightful conversation, and a glass of Australian excellence!
BOWLERO OUTINGS
Wednesdays, November 6 & December 11 | 12 p.m. 11210 Brigman Road, Matthews
Lace up those bowling shoes and get ready to roll to hit the lanes for an afternoon of strikes, spares, and plenty of laughter.
DINNER OUTINGS
Fridays, November 8 & December 13 | 6 p.m.
Firebirds (November) | Duckworths Grill & Taphouse (December)
Join us for an exquisite evening of culinary delights as we indulge in a symphony of flavors at local restaurants. Savor every moment as we relish delectable dishes meticulously crafted by skilled chefs. Amidst warm ambiance and lively conversations, let’s create unforgettable memories together, one delicious bite at a time.
YAPPY HOUR
Thursdays, November 7 & December 12 | 2 - 3 p.m.
Bark Park
Gather with your furry friends for a dogtastic social event. It is a playdate for both pets and humans! Feel free to bring your favorite beverages to share and enjoy with fellow attendees.
MEMBER FRIENDSGIVING
Saturday, November 16 | 6:30 p.m.
The Venue
Join us for a heartwarming celebration where friends come together to share food, laughter, and gratitude! In true potluck style, everyone is invited to bring a favorite dish, whether it’s a family recipe, a seasonal comfort food, or something uniquely you. Gather around the table to enjoy a feast of diverse flavors, from savory sides to sweet treats, and take time to appreciate the bonds of friendship that make this season special.
HOLIDAY MARTINI TASTING
Wednesday, November 20 | 6 p.m.
The Venue
Join your neighbors for a festive evening of holiday martini tasting and recipe sharing! We’ll be sampling three signature martinis: the Cranberry Sauced Martini (a gin-based twist with a tart cranberry kick), the Winter Wonderland (a smooth vodka martini with a hint of sweetness), and the Santa Spice Martini (a warm, spiced rum creation that brings all the holiday cheer). Bring your favorite martini glass and enjoy an evening of delicious cocktails, laughter and holiday spirit. Let’s raise a toast to the season!
WINE AROUND THE WORLD: SPARKLING WINE
Friday, December 6 | 6 p.m.
The Venue
Join us for this sparkling gathering, where we’ll pop the cork on an array of delightful sparkling wines! From classic French Champagne to lively Prosecco and crisp Cava, this meeting celebrates bubbles from around the globe. Whether you’re a fan of light and fruity or rich and toasty sparkling wines, this event promises a festive tasting experience. Raise a glass, enjoy the effervescence, and savor the elegance of these celebratory wines while mingling!
Upcoming Events
GIFT WRAPPING CLASS
Tuesday, December 10 | 5 p.m.
The Venue
Get ready to add a personal touch to your holiday gifts with a fun and creative Gift-Wrapping Class! Learn the art of wrapping presents beautifully, from mastering crisp folds to adding decorative bows and unique embellishments. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to elevate your skills, this class will help you turn any gift into a work of art. Bring your gifts and imagination and leave with stunningly wrapped presents that are sure to impress!
GINGERBREAD HOUSES
Wednesday, December 18 | 2 p.m.
The Venue
Join us for a festive and fun-filled evening of decorating gingerbread houses while sipping on delicious, spiked eggnog! Get creative as you build and decorate your own gingerbread masterpiece, complete with icing, candy, and holiday flair. As you craft your edible work of art, enjoy the cozy warmth of spiked eggnog, perfect for adding some holiday spirit to the night. Whether you’re a seasoned decorator or just in it for fun, this event is the perfect way to celebrate the season with laughter, creativity, and a little bit of holiday cheer!
CHRISTMAS BRUNCH
Monday, December 23 | 10:30 a.m.
The Fresh Chef Resturant
Join your neighbors for an early festive Christmas brunch to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year.
Monthly Member Meetings
ESPLANADE 101
Wed, November 13 & December 11
10 a.m. | Gathering Room
New Members can meet with the CAM and Lifestyle Manager to briefly discuss HOA and Lifestyle topics outlined in your Member Handbook. Come with your questions!
COOKIE EXCHANGE & UGLY CHRISTMAS SWEATER PARTY
Thursday, December 19 | 6 p.m.
The Venue
Join us for a cheerful Cookie Exchange and Ugly Christmas Sweater Party! Come dressed in your most outrageous holiday sweater and bring a batch of your favorite homemade cookies to swap with friends. Enjoy festive treats, sip on holiday drinks, and vote on the “ugliest” sweater while sharing laughter and holiday spirit. It’s the perfect way to indulge in sweet treats, show off your holiday style, and take home a delicious assortment of cookies to enjoy!
NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS
Mon, November 18 & Wed, December 18 11 a.m. | Gathering Room
Meet with your Community Association Manager in a relaxed and social setting to discuss the latest news surrounding the neighborhood.
COFFEE & CONVERSATION
Wednesdays, November 6 & December 4
10 a.m. | Gathering Room
Join your Lifestyle Manager for a relaxing and informative meeting. Find out what’s happening on the social scene. Bring your questions and suggestions.
Pamper Your Feet
Winter can be harsh on our feet, writes Lauren Magnusson of Footprint Health & Wellness Centre. The cold weather, combined with dry indoor heating, can lead to cracked heels and rough skin. However, there’s a simple and delightful solution right in your own home – DIY foot soaks and scrubs. These natural remedies not only keep your feet soft, smooth, and relaxed, but also provide a soothing escape from the winter blues.
PEPPERMINT BLISS FOOT SOAK INGREDIENTS
» 1 cup Epsom salt
» 5-6 drops peppermint essential oil
» 1 tablespoon olive oil
DIRECTIONS
» Mix Epsom salt, peppermint essential oil, and olive oil in warm water.
» Soak your feet for 15-20 minutes.
» Gently scrub your feet with a pumice stone or foot scrubber.
» Rinse and pat your feet dry. Moisturize for added softness.
HONEY & OATMEAL
SCRUB INGREDIENTS
» 1/2 cup oats, finely ground
» 2 tablespoons honey
» 2 tablespoons warm water
DIRECTIONS
» Combine ground oats, honey, and warm water to form a paste.
» Massage the scrub onto your feet, focusing on rough areas.
» Leave it on for 10-15 minutes to let the ingredients work their magic, then rinse off with warm water.
CITRUS ZEST FOOT SOAK INGREDIENTS
» Zest of one orange or lemon
» 1/4 cup sea salt
» 1 tablespoon coconut oil
DIRECTIONS
» Add citrus zest, sea salt, and coconut oil to warm water.
» Stir until the salt is dissolved and the oil is melted.
» Soak your feet for 15 minutes to refresh and revitalize tired winter feet. Then pat dry and enjoy the citrusy fragrance that lingers on your skin.
Read the full article at footprintwellness.ca.
Around Town
LIGHT THE KNIGHTS FESTIVAL
Wednesday, November 27 through Friday, January 3 | Hours Vary Truist Field | www.milb.com/charlotte-knights/ballpark/christmas
The 5th Annual Light the Knights Festival, together with Truist, is coming to Truist Field. Enjoy ice skating, snow tubing, shopping, holiday treats, tens of thousands of lights, décor, and more. It’s everything you need for a fun-filled family day out. All activity tickets to ice skate and snow tube are capped for each day. If and when the cap is hit, there will no longer be all activity tickets available for purchase online or in person at the box office. After all activity tickets are sold out, admission will only be available to enter the ballpark for the holiday lights, the Market shopping booths, and the light tunnel. Please purchase in advance to avoid missing the cutoff of activities.
Sweet Potato Pie with Marshmallow Topping
CRUST INGREDIENTS
» 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
» 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
» 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
» 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
FILLING INGREDIENTS
» 2 medium (12 ounces each) sweet potatoes
» 3 large eggs, at room temperature
» 2/3 cup packed light brown sugar
» 1/3 cup granulated sugar
» 1/2 cup half-and-half
» 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, melted
» 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
» 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
» 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
» 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
» 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
» Pinch ground cloves
» 1/2 cup mini marshmallows
» 1/2 cup regular marshmallows, halved crosswise
DIRECTIONS
1. Make the crust: Preheat oven to 350°F. Stir together graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and salt in a bowl. Add butter and stir
with a fork until well-combined. Press into bottom and up the sides of a broiler-proof 9-inch pie plate. Bake until edges are just barely golden, 6 to 8 minutes. Cool on a wire rack.
2. Increase oven temperature to 400°F. Pierce potatoes several times with a fork. Bake on a rimmed baking sheet until tender in the center when pierced with a knife, 1 hour to 1 hour 20 minutes. Carefully slice potatoes in half lengthwise and let stand until cool enough to handle.
3. Reduce oven temperature to 375°F. Scoop potato flesh from skins into a food processor; discard skins. Process until smooth, about 1 minute. Measure out 1 1/2 cups puree (save remaining puree for another use).
4. Whisk together eggs, brown sugar, and granulated sugar in a bowl. Whisk in half-and-half, butter, and vanilla. Whisk in pureed potatoes, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves. Pour into piecrust. Bake, until filling is set around edges (will still jiggle slightly in center), 35 to 40 minutes. Let cool completely on a wire rack, about 3 hours. Pie may be chilled at this point, if desired.
5. Before serving, preheat oven to broil with oven rack 5 inches from heat source. Wrap piecrust tightly with aluminum foil. Scatter marshmallows over top of pie, and broil until golden brown, rotating pie halfway through for even browning, 1 to 1 1/2 minutes.
Recipe by Torie Cox. Read the full article on countryliving.com.
Wellness Walk TO FIGHT HUNGER
10:30 A.M. | THE VENUE November 6
All Members who register for our Wellness Walk are asked to bring a non-perishable food item to donate to our food drive. Your contributions will support Common Heart serving those in need during the holiday season. This is more than just a walk—it’s an opportunity to nurture both body and soul while giving back to our community. Take a step in our efforts to raise awareness about food vulnerability and help us make a meaningful donation this holiday.
Friendsgiving
6:30 P.M. THE VENUE November 16 It is time to gobble ...
This year we are grateful for friends! In true potluck style, everyone is invited to bring a favorite dish, whether it’s a family recipe, a seasonal comfort food, or something uniquely you.
Adventure Awaits!
Set sail for an adventure and save while exploring the Caribbean, Europe, or Alaska with Celebrity Cruises® - known for their exceptional service and luxurious experience. Whether you’re dreaming of a tropical escape or a scenic Alaskan voyage, you can enjoy incredible savings and exclusive perks with Destinations by Esplanade.
Book now and enjoy bonus savings of up to $200 per stateroom:
» $200 for Retreat Bookings (Suites)
» $150 for Concierge and Aqua Class
» $100 for Balcony Staterooms
These savings are in addition to your exclusive Destinations by Esplanade perks! Receive a branded pre-departure Esplanade gift, and enjoy up to $500 per couple in gift cards toward your cruise or tour bookings. Don’t miss this opportunity to embark on a 7-night or longer journey in style. Book your dream cruise by December 31, 2024. Certain terms and conditions apply. Visit DestinationsByEsplanade.com
LANGUAGE LEARNING PROGRAMS
Members receive 15% off language learning programs at the International Center for Language Studies!
Elevate your language skills for both personal and professional growth, and pair this exciting benefit with an upcoming adventure through Destinations by Esplanade! Hone your techniques right in the heart of the region you’re exploring. Dive into the vibrant local culture and language, and make the most of your travel experience. Visit www.icls.edu/Esplanade and enter code TAKE15 to embark on your language learning adventure with ICLS!
Green Hour
Encouraging kids of all ages to spend time every day discovering the wonders of our world!
The National Wildlife Federation’s Green Hour program is designed to encourage parents, schools, childcare centers, park agencies, camps, grandparents, and others to adopt a goal of one hour each day for children to play and learn outdoors in nature. Getting kids outside has never been more important. That’s why we’ve teamed up with L.L.Bean to provide kids and families with safe, fun, and easy activities to do outdoors. Each week we will provide new activities for connecting kids to nature—from creating a nature notebook to becoming a wildlife detective, and getting creative with leaves, nature’s opportunities are endless. Learn more at www.nwf. org/Kids-and-Family/Connecting-Kids-and-Nature
Image © Celebrity Cruises®
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