Issuu

SEPTEMBER 2026

Veronica McCloud

COMPLIMENTARY

Volume 02 / Issue 9

September 2026

Meet Fargo Magazine is published 12 times a year and is free. Copies are available at more than 500 Fargo-Moorhead locations and digitally at meetfargo.com.

Publisher EDITORIAL Editorial Team Lead Art Director Editorial Graphic Designer Contributors INTERACTIVE Director of Performance Marketing Director of Creative Strategies Web Project Manager Senior Graphic Designer Director of Web Operations Director of Agency Social Media Senior Digital Advertising Specialist ADVERTISING VP of Business Development Sales Representative Digital Sales Representative Business Development Representative Senior Digital Advertising Specialist Director of New Market Sales & Expansion Client Relations Director of Client Success Marketing Admin Accounting Specialist DISTRIBUTION Delivery

Mike Dragosavich Brady Drake Brady@SpotlightMediaFargo.com Kim Cowles Ty Betts Amanda Frost, Folkways and Ashley Morken, Unglued Kellen Feeney Megan Suedbeck Matthew Haire Sarah Cabler Sara Jentink Mhairi Christopherson Tammy Fogle Paul Hoefer Paul@SpotlightMediaFargo.com Al Anderson Al@SpotlightMediaFargo.com Abby Schauer Abby@SpotlightMediaFargo.com Spencer Hall Spencer@SpotlightMediaFargo.com Matt Purpur Matt@SpotlightMediaFargo.com Cooper Opheim Cooper@spotlightmediafargo.com ClientRelations@SpotlightMediaFargo.com Jessica Ventzke Tyler Duclos Missy Roberts John Stuber

Meet Fargo is published by Spotlight, LLC. Copyright 2026 Meet Fargo and meetfargo.com. All rights reserved. No parts of this magazine may be reproduced or distributed without written permission of Meet Fargo and Spotlight, LLC is not responsible for, and expressly disclaims all liability for, damages of any kind arising out of use, reference to, or reliance on such information. Spotlight, LLC accepts no liability for the accuracy of statements made by the advertisers.

Spotlight, LLC 4609 33rd Ave S Suite #304 Fargo, ND 58104 or info@spotlightmediafargo.com ADVERTISING: 701-478-SPOT (7768)

FROMTHEEDITOR

A home is never truly finished. Even after the last box is unpacked, the walls are painted, and the furniture is in place, a house continues to change each season alongside the people living inside it. Families grow. Styles evolve. Things break. Needs shift. A room that once served as an office may become a nursery, while a neglected basement may become the place where everyone gathers.

That constant evolution is what makes home services so important. The professionals featured in this issue do more than repair roofs, clean carpets, install heating systems, or remodel kitchens. They help people protect one of their largest investments while making everyday life safer, easier, and more comfortable. It is easy to overlook this work until something goes wrong. A furnace stops during a Fargo winter. Water appears where it

should not. A project that seemed simple suddenly requires tools, experience, and knowledge most homeowners do not have. In those moments, having a trusted local expert can make all the difference. This issue is designed to help readers find those experts before an emergency arrives. It also celebrates the skill behind the work. Great home service professionals combine craftsmanship with communication, reliability and

respect for the spaces they enter. The best of them understand that they are not simply working on a structure. They are working in someone’s home. As you read, I hope you discover useful ideas, practical advice and a few local businesses worth remembering. Maybe this issue inspires a long-delayed project. Maybe it helps you prevent an expensive problem. Or maybe it simply gives you a greater appreciation for the people who keep our homes running.

Brady Drake Meet Fargo Editor

TABLEOFCONTENTS

MEET FARGO // SEPTEMBER 2026

COVER STORY

Partner Content: 1 Floor To Ceiling-Carpet One: Where Do I Start With a Remodel? 21 Valley Christian Counseling & Wellness: How Can I Help Someone Who May Be Struggling With Suicidal Thoughts? 22 Vita Roofing: Answering Your Roofing Questions! 25 Self Storage Solutions: Make Room for the Life You Actually Live 28 The Home Authority, Inc.: Remodeling Done Differently 34 Ridge Treatment and Reentry Center: Care With More Than One Path 38 Patriot Air: Patriot Air Is Doing HVAC the Right Way 40 Onyx Exteriors: 5 Exterior Upgrades The Makes A Home Stand Out - And Stand Up To The Weather

The Home Services Issue

104

44 From The Laundry Room to the Classroom 54 Interior Designer: Monica Hart 58 Interior Designer: Paige Breidenbach 64 Interior Designer: Joann Sevald 72 43 Home-Service Businesses To Know 98 Meet the Maker: Kalohe Designs 104 Folkways Guide To The Art Of Hosting

MEET OUR TEAM AT

LEARN MORE ABOUT US AT SPOTLIGHTMEDIAFARGO.COM

PARTNER CONTENT

Make Room for the Life You Actually Live Self Storage Solutions Makes it Easy By Brady Drake |

provided by Self Storage Solutions

or many people, self storage is something they think about during a move, renovation, or major life transition. However, Self Storage Solutions in FargoMoorhead is encouraging customers to think about it differently—as a long-term tool for creating a more organized, functional home. That might mean moving holiday decorations out of the basement, storing expensive sports or recreational gear, protecting sentimental family items, or simply freeing up enough space to park in the garage again. Heather Johnson of Self Storage Solutions has seen firsthand how useful that extra breathing room can be. By moving seasonal items into storage, homeowners can keep a clearer inventory of what they own while reducing the clutter that tends to accumulate in garages, basements, and spare rooms. Storage can also provide flexibility during more complicated transitions. Families helping a parent move into assisted living, military members leaving for deployment or basic training, and people navigating moves or downsizing may need a secure place for belongings without being

forced to make immediate decisions about what to keep. Self Storage Solutions has also invested in features designed for how customers live today. Every facility offers climate-controlled storage, 24/7 video surveillance, online rentals and Bluetooth-enabled access as standard amenities. The Fargo and Moorhead locations provide additional options, including traditional outdoor drive-up units and parking spaces for vehicles, boats and RVs. Bluetooth technology allows customers to use their phones for gate and unit entry, making it easy to securely share access with a spouse, child or another trusted person. Some larger 10-by-25foot units at the Moorhead facility also feature climate control, garage doors and electrical access. According to Johnson, customers are using many of these spaces to store and charge electric vehicles. Across all Self Storage Solutions locations, customers can use a mobile app for convenient, Bluetooth-enabled facility access. The app also allows customers to securely share access with a spouse, child, or another trusted person—even when they are not there in person.

Fargo Location 701-532-2200 3030 36th St S, Fargo, ND

Moorhead Location 701-532-2200 2726 20th Ave S, Moorhead, MN

SelfStorageSolutionsND.com | /SelfStorageSolutionsND

| @selfstoragesolutionsnd

| /selfstoragesolutions 25

28 | SEPTEMBER 2026 | MEETFARGO.COM

30 | SEPTEMBER 2026 | MEETFARGO.COM

PARTNER CONTENT

Care With More

By Brady Drake | Photo by J. Alan Paul Photography or someone entering treatment, asking for help can be only the first difficult step. The next challenge is finding care that fits a life that cannot be reduced to a diagnosis. One person may need help managing medication; another may need to build a budget, find a job, or cope with anxiety. Even when two people share a diagnosis, the obstacles standing between them and greater stability may look entirely different.

34 | SEPTEMBER 2026 | MEETFARGO.COM

That is the idea behind the new Treatment Mall at Ridge Treatment & Reentry Center in Fargo—to create more than one path forward and give clients a meaningful role in choosing it. Despite the name, a treatment mall is not a physical collection of storefronts. It is a flexible model of care built around options. In collaboration with a counselor or another provider, clients can choose from a menu of treatment groups, educational sessions, wellness activities, and practical skill-building opportunities based on their needs and goals.

“A treatment mall is something that’s done generally in mental health and substance use disorder services that brings choice into the hands of the client,” Licensed Addiction Counselor Chuck Bergeson said. “They feel a little more power and autonomy in making decisions about what treatment planning they want, what groups they want, and what content they want.” The process is collaborative rather than entirely self-directed. A provider explains the available options and recommends services that may address concerns identified during an

What Is a Treatment Mall? Despite its name, a treatment mall is not a collection of physical storefronts. It is a flexible approach that gives clients access to a range of treatments, education, wellness, and practical skill-building opportunities. With guidance from a counselor or other provider, each client can select options that reflect their current needs and goals. Those choices may change over time as the individual makes progress or encounters new challenges. The goal is not to require everyone to follow the same path. It is to combine professional recommendations with client choice, creating care that is more personal, collaborative, and responsive.

assessment. The client, however, is not treated as a passive recipient following the same preset program as everyone else.

immediately useful. Practical education can help turn a clinical recommendation into something sustainable.

Instead, the conversation can begin with a more personal question: What are you most concerned about right now?

The choices create room for clients to take ownership of their care while still benefiting from professional guidance.

If emotional regulation is creating the greatest difficulty, the next step may include coping skills, mindfulness, or principles drawn from cognitive behavioral therapy or dialectical behavior therapy. If financial stress is undermining stability, budgeting may be more

“People who have mental health challenges, like we all do, can be empowered to make informed choices,” Bergeson said. “That relational construct makes for healthy treatment, instead of being told, ‘Do this, do that.’”

Expanding the Definition of Treatment

emotional, environmental, financial, intellectual, occupational, physical, social, and spiritual. The framework recognizes that health is influenced by far more than the symptoms that first bring a person through the door.

The Treatment Mall represents an expansion of what The Ridge has already been doing. Its outpatient group programming has historically centered largely on substance use disorders. The new model is intended to add more options for people whose primary needs involve mental health while also creating opportunities that can benefit clients across both areas. A yoga session, for example, may be useful to people enrolled in different programs. So might a class on nutrition, stress management, medication, or healthy relationships. Rather than placing every service into a narrow clinical lane, the Treatment Mall creates a shared structure in which different kinds of support can work together. The Ridge team organizes that whole-person approach around the eight dimensions of wellness:

Physical wellness could include learning how nutrition affects symptoms and setting a realistic goal to improve eating habits. Emotional wellness could involve developing strategies for anxiety or making a plan to begin individual therapy for trauma. Occupational wellness may mean writing a resumé, connecting with Job Service North Dakota or vocational rehabilitation, or finding a more meaningful structure for the day. Financial wellness can begin with budgeting or learning to prioritize expenses. Daily living skills may include cooking, housekeeping, and other routines that some clients—particularly those who have experienced long periods

CONTINUED> 35

PARTNER CONTENT

The Eight Dimensions of Wellness Emotional:

Managing feelings, stress, anxiety and other challenges

Environmental:

Creating safe, supportive and healthy surroundings

Financial:

Budgeting, prioritizing expenses and building stability

Intellectual:

Learning, solving problems and developing new skills

Occupational:

Finding meaningful work, purpose or daily structure

Physical:

Supporting health through nutrition, movement and medical care

Social:

Building healthy relationships and a sense of connection

Spiritual:

Exploring meaning, values, purpose and personal beliefs

36 | SEPTEMBER 2026 | MEETFARGO.COM

of instability or justice-system involvement—may never have had the opportunity to develop. The clinical and the practical are not competing forms of care. They reinforce one another. A medication may be an important part of treatment, but a prescription alone does not answer every question surrounding it. A medicationmanagement group can help clients understand what they are taking, organize prescriptions, and become more comfortable raising concerns with a provider. The Ridge’s nurse practitioners and other specialists can share knowledge in a group setting while building familiarity and trust. The same structure can incorporate psychoeducation about substance use disorders, mindfulness, goal setting, social connection, and other needs. Community organizations and outside speakers can also be invited to explain resources and help clients understand how to use them. The result is not a requirement that every client complete every offering. In fact, the breadth of the model makes that neither practical nor desirable. The point is to identify what could make the greatest difference for a particular person at a particular time.

Treatment That Can Change With the Person Recovery and mental health care rarely move in a perfectly straight line. A need that feels urgent during the first month

of treatment may be less pressing later. Accomplishing one goal can reveal the next, while a change in housing, employment, relationships or health can create an entirely new challenge. The Treatment Mall is designed to move with that reality. As clients meet objectives, they can establish new ones and select different services. The Ridge can also adjust its mix of groups in response to client and staff feedback. A session that is useful and well attended may continue or expand. Another may be revised or replaced as community needs change. That flexibility also gives The Ridge a way to respond more quickly when a new behavioral health concern emerges locally. Instead of rebuilding an entire program, the team can bring in relevant expertise or add a group to the existing structure. The commitment to choice does not mean individualized care is easy. Bergeson acknowledged that empowering clients is an ongoing practice and that providers will not always hit the mark immediately. What matters is creating a system willing to listen, learn and adjust rather than assuming a standardized plan will work for everyone. The team has seen the limitations of “canned treatment”—offering the same set of services to every person who arrives and expecting the same approach to meet dramatically different needs. By broadening the continuum

of care, the Treatment Mall gives each client a better opportunity to find the combination of services that is relevant to their life.

Lived Experience at the Table One of the most important pieces of that continuum is peer support. The Ridge employs certified peer support specialists whose professional training is strengthened by lived experience with recovery or behavioral health challenges. That can create a different kind of connection—one grounded in the knowledge that the person offering support has faced some of the same barriers. Peer specialists can help clients work toward goals outside a formal treatment group. They may connect someone with community resources, help them navigate an unfamiliar process or simply walk beside them through a task that has felt overwhelming. Their role complements the work of counselors, nurse practitioners and other clinical professionals.

“There’s some synergy that gets going when the two work together,” Bergeson said. “Peer supports typically have life experience and can speak to that directly, and then they’re trained in how to help individuals reach a lot of their goals outside of the treatment group.” That collaboration matters because progress often has to survive beyond the therapy room. Understanding a coping strategy is one step; using it during a stressful afternoon is another. Hearing about a resource is valuable; making the call, completing the paperwork or walking through the door may require a different kind of support. By integrating peer specialists into the broader treatment team, The Ridge aims to connect those moments rather than leaving clients to bridge the gap alone.

More Choice, More Ownership

a longer schedule. It is about recognizing that effective care must make room for the person receiving it. For one client, progress may begin with understanding a diagnosis. For another, it may begin with preparing a meal, creating a budget, or learning how to structure a day. Over time, those starting points can lead to new goals, new services and a broader sense of what is possible. The Ridge’s role is to provide professional guidance, evidence-informed care, practical resources and human connection. The client’s role is not merely to comply, but to participate—to identify concerns, make choices, offer feedback and help shape the next step. That shared ownership is the promise at the center of the Treatment Mall. There may be many available paths, but the goal is deeply personal: helping each person build a healthier life that works beyond the walls of treatment.

Ultimately, the Treatment Mall is not about offering more groups simply for the sake of having

| ridgend.org. | /ridgend | @ t h e r i d g e t r e at m e n t r e n e n t r y c e n t e r | / t h e - r i d g e - t r e at m e n t - r e e n t r y - c e n t e r

PA RTN E R C ONT ENT

PATRIOT AIR IS DOING HVAC

the Right Way

By Brady Drake |

provided by Patriot Air

atriot Air Heating & Cooling may look like a larger operation, but its foundation is unmistakably local. Founder and owner Tom Zander was born and raised in the Fargo-Moorhead area, and the company he built reflects the values he learned here, including work hard, treating people honestly, and taking pride in doing a job correctly.

“I was just mechanically inclined and always wanted to work with my hands,” Tom said. “It seemed like a natural fit for me.”

Together, the team believes good work should be completed with both the customer and the next technician in mind.

He eventually worked his way to the top of a union shop but wanted a new challenge. Patriot Air grew from his desire to build something rooted in craftsmanship, personal responsibility, and genuine service.

“When I install something, I’m not just doing it the easiest way for me—I’m thinking about making it service-friendly for the next person who works on it,” Tom said. “I instill that in my team. We are good people helping great customers!”

For customers throughout Fargo, Moorhead, and West Fargo, that means working with a neighbor who understands the demands local weather places on HVAC systems through every season.

Tom took a hands-on approach from the beginning, creating the company’s name and helping shape its professional identity. Its distinctive vehicles and online presence sometimes lead customers to assume Patriot Air is a franchise or large regional company. While Tom appreciates that impression, he also wants customers to know Patriot Air is 100% locally owned.

WHY PATRIOT AIR?

Tom’s path into the trades began shortly after high school. He knew he did not want to spend his career sitting behind a desk. Mechanically inclined, he enrolled in HVAC school and began building a career that now spans more than 35 years. er

d un

er &

O w n e r To

38 | SEPTEMBER 2026 | MEETFARGO.COM

That identity is reinforced by a team with deep ties to the skilled trades. Jenny, Tom’s fiancée and the company’s dispatcher, comes from four generations of tradespeople. Her greatgrandfather and grandfather were blacksmiths, while her father worked as a drywaller. Technician David is a second-generation tradesman who came to the area for college track before finding his career in HVAC.

100% local ownership No commission-based sales Flexible solutions for any budget Generations of trade expertise That philosophy also shapes Patriot Air’s recommendations. The company does not use commission-based sales, so technicians are not rewarded for selling the most expensive system or unnecessary upgrades. Instead, every conversation begins with what is best for the customer, the property, and the budget. Sometimes, the right answer is a $350 repair that helps a family get another season from an existing furnace or air conditioner. In other situations, replacement is the smarter long-term decision. Patriot Air can build anything from a dependable, budget-conscious

HVAC TIPS FROM PATRIOT AIR Change your filters every 1–3 months to improve air quality and efficiency. Listen for unusual sounds—they’re often early warnings. Schedule seasonal maintenance for peak performance and fewer breakdowns. Ask about air quality upgrades if allergies or asthma are a concern.

system to a comprehensive comfort package with advanced filtration, humidification, air purification, and home automation. When replacement is necessary, Patriot Air’s expanded installation team can often schedule work within days rather than weeks— an important advantage during extreme summer heat or the coldest stretches of winter. Its investment in the community extends beyond HVAC. Patriot Air is a Chamber member, belongs to the Building Industry Association, and contributes to its Trades Scholarship Program. Tom hopes that support helps young people recognize that a rewarding career does not have to begin with a

four-year degree or take place behind a desk. The company is also a proud corporate sponsor of the Veterans Honor Flight of ND/MN, which provides veterans with free trips to Washington, D.C., to visit the memorials created in their honor. Patriot Air also offers a military discount. For Patriot Air, being local is not merely a marketing phrase. It means answering to the people who live in the same community, recommending only what they truly need and standing behind every installation. The company may look large from the outside, but its service remains personal, practical and grounded in hometown pride.

Patriot Air is a proud supporter of the Veterans Honor Flight of ND/MN.

BOOK TODAY! | patriotairnd.com | /patriotairnd

| @patriotarind

any homeowners personalize the interior while leaving the exterior largely unchanged for decades. Eventually, the outside no longer reflects the home they have created within. “Onyx’s mantra is that we want your home to be as happy on the outside as it is on the inside,” CEO of Onyx Exteriors Raymond Boe said. Many Onyx clients are not reacting to one damaged panel. They are ready to modernize a 20-year-old exterior, move beyond its original builder palette, and make the home feel their own. Founded in 2021, Onyx serves Fargo–Moorhead–West Fargo and the surrounding region with siding, stone, gutters, soffit and fascia, windows and decking. Its process extends from consultation and 3D design through installation and a final quality-assurance walkthrough. Boe recommends treating the exterior as one connected system—not a collection of unrelated products. Here are five places where a planned upgrade can make the greatest difference.

40 | SEPTEMBER 2026 | MEETFARGO.COM

provided by Onyx Exteriors

Siding covers more visual territory than nearly any other exterior element, making it the natural starting point for a transformation. It is also a critical layer of protection against wind, hail, moisture, sun, and temperature changes. Cracks, warping, loose panels, chalking, repeated repairs or moisture behind the siding deserve attention. What looks like cosmetic wear may also signal trouble with drainage, flashing, insulation or air sealing. The right replacement depends on more than color. Seamless steel delivers exceptional durability. Fiber cement provides strength and a substantial architectural appearance, while engineered wood can offer the warmth of traditional wood with less upkeep. Onyx installs several premium siding systems, including James Hardie fiber cement, LP SmartSide, and Diamond Kote products. Boe advises weighing budget, desired maintenance, sun exposure, the home’s architecture and how long the owner plans to stay. The best choice is not automatically the most expensive; it is the material that best fits the home, climate and homeowner’s priorities.

A home does not need an entirely new shape to look custom. Often, the transformation comes from changing proportion, contrast and texture. Stacked stone can add depth around an entryway, along a lower elevation or at the base of columns. Coordinated window wraps, trim, garage doors and exterior doors can reinforce the same visual language. The strongest designs rarely use every available feature. They use a few materials deliberately. Because combinations can be difficult to imagine from small samples, Onyx photographs the home and develops a detailed 3D model that clients can customize with different products and finishes. Homeowners can compare complete concepts before construction rather than making disconnected decisions one at a time. The company’s formal process incorporates 3D design before installation begins, followed by installation, cleanup, and a final quality check.

Gutters may be one of the least exciting exterior purchases, but they can prevent some of the most expensive problems. When gutters are clogged, undersized, sagging, leaking or poorly pitched, water can spill beside the foundation, erode landscaping, soak fascia and contribute to basement moisture. Snow, ice and repeated freeze-thaw cycles make those weaknesses more consequential in this region. Boe considers gutters one of the quickest ways to add practical value. Seamless systems reduce the number of joints where leaks can develop, but sizing and downspout placement matter just as much. Water needs a clear route away from the structure rather than being deposited at its base. Onyx’s gutter work includes installation, repairs, downspouts, guards and maintenance. Homeowners should inspect gutters in spring and fall and after major storms. Overflow marks, pulled fasteners, peeling paint near the roofline and pooling water near the foundation all indicate that the system needs attention.

Soffit and fascia often disappear into the roofline, yet both are essential to how a home functions. Soffit helps ventilate the attic and control moisture. Fascia protects the roof edge and supports the gutter system. When either is damaged, homeowners can face rot, ice-dam conditions, premature roof deterioration, and openings for insects or animals. Older homes with wood soffit and fascia deserve close inspection. Peeling finishes, staining, soft spots, warped boards, pest activity or gutters pulling away from the house may indicate deterioration beyond the surface. Replacing those components with durable, low-maintenance materials can sharpen the roofline while addressing ventilation and moisture concerns—an upgrade that improves appearance because it improves function. Onyx’s services include full replacement, ventilation upgrades, fascia repair, restoration and custom cladding.

42 | SEPTEMBER 2026 | MEETFARGO.COM

Aging or poorly installed windows can allow drafts, increase heat transfer, create condensation and leave some rooms noticeably less comfortable than others. Low-E coatings, multiple panes, gas fills, insulated frames and warm-edge spacers can improve performance, but Boe emphasizes that installation is just as important as the glass package. A highperforming window that is poorly fitted or sealed cannot deliver its intended benefit. Windows and doors also establish the rhythm of the façade. Frame colors, trim widths, and the front door should be selected alongside siding and stone, not after the major decisions are made. A stronger entry color, updated door style or darker window frame may pull the entire exterior together. The same thinking can extend to outdoor living. Composite decking offers durability with minimal maintenance, while wood provides a classic appearance and lower initial cost but requires regular staining and sealing.

Even premium materials can fail when preparation, flashing, fastening or sealing is wrong. Boe encourages homeowners to look beyond the bid’s bottom line. Ask whether the contractor is licensed and insured, who will perform the work, how hidden damage and change orders are handled, what warranties apply, and what the final walkthrough includes. Review completed projects and speak with past clients. Trust comes through communication, clarity and demonstrated care.

| onyxnd.com | /onyxnd | @onyx.exteriors

Onyx uses its own employees for core exterior work, while a partner company handles roofing. Onyx coordinates the broader transformation and is BBB accredited with an A+ rating. For Boe, that continuity defines the white-glove experience: educating homeowners, helping them envision possibilities and guiding their investment from the first conversation through final inspection. The best remodel should improve appearance, comfort and protection while reducing maintenance. Done well, a home looks as good from the driveway as it feels inside.

From the Laundry Room Photos provided by TLC Cleaning

n Veronica McCloud’s first day at TLC Cleaning in July 2011, founder Trisha Lake walked up to the car and asked how it had gone. Veronica told her it was great. That was not entirely true. “In my head, I was like, ‘I don’t know if I can do this. This is really hard,’” Veronica said. “But I went back the next day and faked it for another day.” She kept returning. At first, she needed the paycheck and the consistent hours. Before TLC, she had been working for a political survey call service, and members of her family already employed by the cleaning company had encouraged her to give it a try. She started as a cleaning technician, learning the work from the ground up. Over time, however, Veronica’s reason for coming back changed. She began to see something in TLC that felt different from an ordinary job. She watched Trisha, then a single mother building a company almost hour by hour, do everything she could to keep employees working. When the schedule was light, Trisha found other tasks. When teams were overwhelmed, she joined them in the field. During latenight move-out cleanings, Trisha and her husband drove between jobs with food for employees who were working into the early morning. Another person who played an important role in keeping Veronica at TLC was Operations Manager 44 | SEPTEMBER 2026 | MEETFARGO.COM

Photo by J. Alan Paul Photography

Iris Rodriguez. Iris stayed late with Veronica on long jobs and stood by her side, providing support throughout her years with the company. Fifteen years later, Veronica is still returning—but she no longer has to pretend she belongs. Today, her role at TLC is Trainer, and she is one of the people standing at the front of the company’s classroom, teaching new employees how to do the job that once intimidated her. “I always tell people, anything that you’ve done, I’ve done,” she said. “Any mistakes, I’ve already done, and I’m here to tell you not to do that—and why.” Her journey has become part of the company’s institutional knowledge. It is also a living record of just how much TLC Cleaning has changed.

D HE R VE RO NI CA ANC FO R SO N JO IN TL IC K’ S DAY TH E ST PATR FA RG O PA RA DE IN

Learning a Business as

TLC Cleaning was founded in 2010, only about a year before Veronica joined the company in July 2011. In those early days, team meetings happened in Trisha’s home. Employees sat on the living room floor, folded laundry, and talked through the day’s assignments while Trisha’s cat, Smudge, wandered nearby. The laundry room served as the company’s base. Assignments were kept in binders. Employees recorded their work and hours on pieces of paper. There were no extensive training videos, classroom lessons or sophisticated scheduling platforms. “We were just sitting there folding rags and making our own chemicals,” Veronica said. “We thought we were chemists.” Since then, TLC has grown into a company

with more than 85 employees and service areas centered around Fargo, Grand Forks and Detroit Lakes. The operation now includes company vehicles, dedicated offices, digital scheduling and communication systems, formal benefits, and a structured training program. Veronica has been present for nearly every stage of that transformation. She saw the first company cars, the first office, new uniforms, changes in management, evolving cleaning products, and the transition from handwritten records to apps capable of sending clients real-time notifications.

Trisha believed it would. “She was like, ‘It will work this time because I know what to do now, and I know how to do it,’” Veronica said. That willingness to close a door, learn and try again left an impression on Veronica. The company’s growth did not come from avoiding mistakes. It came from responding to them. Adaptability and trust are among TLC’s stated values. Veronica’s story adds another word to the picture: resilience.

She also witnessed the less straightforward parts of growth. TLC’s first attempt to establish a Grand Forks location did not work. Rather than continuing before the operation was ready, Trisha closed it and refocused on Fargo. When the company re-opened its doors in Grand Forks 9 years later, Veronica remembers employees wondering whether the result would be different. 45

Support With

When Veronica began working at TLC, she was rebuilding her life. She was living with her mother, trying to become financially independent and unsure of what adulthood was supposed to look like. She did not have a driver’s license, something that eventually became an obstacle as she began taking on more responsibility in the field. Trisha challenged her to change that.

46 | SEPTEMBER 2026 | MEETFARGO.COM

“If you want people to respect you and take you seriously, you can’t have them drive you around,” Veronica remembers Trisha telling her. “If you’re going to lead, you have to show them that you’re a pusher.” Veronica did not appreciate the message immediately. Eventually, she paid what she needed to pay, earned her license, and became capable of driving and leading a team.

That pattern repeated throughout her career. TLC offered support, but the support was usually paired with an expectation that Veronica would continue moving forward. “She doesn’t just give us things,” Veronica said. “She’s like, ‘You put in the work, and I’ll put in the same.’ You have to show that you’re willing to do what it takes to get where you need to be, and she’ll help you with that.”

That support came from others within TLC as well. Veronica credits Operations Manager Iris Rodriguez as one of the people who helped her through the difficult days and gave her reasons to stay. On particularly long jobs, Iris stayed late alongside her. Throughout Veronica’s time at TLC, Iris remained someone she could count on to stand beside her and offer support when she needed it. That help extended far beyond cleaning. When Veronica became responsible for raising her son, employees and their family members helped provide childcare. At times, he could

spend part of the day at the TLC office until someone was available to watch him. During a difficult custody process, Trisha supported Veronica’s fundraising efforts, helped her manage the financial strain and testified in court about her employment, income and personal growth. The company also created moments of relief from the pressures of work and home. Employees have attended family campouts, barbecues, anniversary dinners, and surprise outings. The company serves a homemade breakfast on Mondays and stocks everyday necessities employees may need but might not feel comfortable requesting.

“You don’t know anybody’s relationship in life or where they’re coming to us from,” Veronica said. “They just want to make sure people feel taken care of.” TLC’s current employee offerings include health insurance, company vehicles, 401(k) plans, paid vacations, and other benefits that Trisha has said she prioritizes because she remembers what it was like to work without them.

AT TLC C L E A N IN G , VERONI CA H A S G R O WN FROM A N E R V O U S N E W CLEAN E R IN T O O N E OF THE C O MPA N Y ’S MOST E X P E R IE N C E D TRA IN E R S .

Turning Experience

Veronica’s first transition into leadership happened informally. A few years into her time at TLC, a team lead left. Veronica already knew the clients and homes well enough to guide other employees, so she was told it was time to take over. Her reaction was predictable. “I was like, ‘No, I don’t have to do anything you say,’” she recalled. “I was scared. I didn’t know how to be a grown adult. I thought it was too much.” She did it anyway. As the number of staff grew, Veronica continued to train and mentor new employees. By then,

48 | SEPTEMBER 2026 | MEETFARGO.COM

TLC’s training had become more organized. There were books, defined procedures, and clearer expectations. Over time, the company continued refining the program with videos, field instruction and dedicated trainers. In 2026, TLC expanded the program again by adding classroom-based instruction. Veronica was among the first employees selected to lead it. Her lessons cover techniques, products and processes, but her greatest value cannot be captured entirely in a manual. She knows what happens when an employee feels overwhelmed, falls behind or carries a difficult personal situation into work because she has experienced those moments herself.

She also remembers learning many cleaning techniques through trial and error. When a surface did not look right, she became determined to understand why. She learned to view counters and furniture from eye level, where leftover dust is easier to see. She refined a wet-to-dry dusting method. She experimented with ways to remove stubborn residue without relying on an expensive product for every individual task. Those experiences now become stories in the classroom. “I’m a silent operator,” she said. “I’d rather be out in the field and watch everybody grow and be a pusher behind the scenes.”

Veronica’s 10

The Human Side of a

Cleaning Rules 1. One room at a time is enough. A home does not need to be cleaned from top to bottom every day. Completing one manageable space is still progress.

For Veronica, cleaning has never been only about surfaces. Inviting someone into a home can make clients feel vulnerable. They may worry about being judged for clutter, pet hair, dishes, laundry, or the simple evidence of a busy life. TLC attempts to make that experience more personal by introducing its employees through online biographies and sending clients information about the person who completed their cleaning. Even when a client is away at work, the goal is to help them understand that a real person—not an anonymous corporate workforce—was caring for the space. “We’re not corporate,” Veronica said. “We’re very much mom-and-pop, but with a big vibe.” That personal connection matters because every home carries a story. TLC employees may be cleaning for new parents, older adults, people with disabilities, families grieving a death, or clients trying to hold life together during a difficult season. Some live in large, immaculate houses.

Others may be facing severe clutter or hoarding. Veronica teaches new employees that none of those circumstances determines how much dignity a client deserves. “You should treat that person in a hoarding situation like they won the lottery,” she said, “because they need you to make them feel seen and heard and that they’re not a problem.” The same respect should be extended to every client, regardless of the size of the home or how a situation may look from the outside. “We don’t know what’s happening in their life,” Veronica said. That compassion does not require employees to accept mistreatment. Earlier in her career, Veronica believed difficult or abusive behavior was simply something service workers were expected to tolerate. Trisha made it clear that was not the case. TLC could show care for clients while also setting boundaries to protect its employees. The respect had to work in both directions.

50 | SEPTEMBER 2026 | MEETFARGO.COM

2. Make the bed and take out the trash. A few high-impact tasks can make a home feel calmer without requiring hours of work. 3. Use a wet-to-dry method when dusting. Wipe the surface with the damp portion of a cloth, then finish with a dry section to pick up remaining moisture and dust. 4. Look at surfaces from eye level. Changing your angle can reveal dust, crumbs or residue that is difficult to see while standing directly above a counter or table. 5. Turn off the vanity lights before cleaning a mirror. This is Veronica’s trick for giving herself more time to wipe the surface before the cleaner begins drying and leaving streaks. 6. Keep the supply cabinet simple. An all-purpose cleaner and quality microfiber cloths can handle more household tasks than many people realize. 7. Use only as much product as the job requires. More cleaner does not automatically produce a better result and may leave additional residue behind. 8. Treat stubborn buildup strategically. For hairspray residue, Veronica may use a small amount of glass cleaner on a compatible surface rather than immediately purchasing another specialty product. 9. Do not clean because the cleaner is coming. Pick up personal items when necessary, but do not feel obligated to hide the fact that people live in the home. 10. Remember what the home is for. “Your home is to be lived in,” Veronica said. “It’s to be enjoyed. It’s not supposed to be a show house.”

The Upside-Down

Trisha has described TLC’s structure as an upside-down pyramid. The cleaning technicians are at the top because they are the people entering homes, building relationships and representing the company. The office and leadership team are underneath them, providing the support that allows them to succeed. “The better we’re taken care of, the better we take care of our clients,” Veronica said. That philosophy helps explain why she is no longer the only unusually long-tenured employee. Several coworkers are only a few years behind her, with five- and 10-year anniversaries becoming increasingly common. TLC has marked Veronica’s milestones in personal ways. For her fifth anniversary, she traveled to

the Twin Cities with Trisha and their children. Her 10-year recognition included a fully-paid trip to California for her and her son. For her 15th anniversary, Veronica was given several choices, including a trip, a cruise, or money that could be used toward a future home purchase. She chose a fully-paid trip to Orlando with her mother—the woman she credits with teaching her how to care for others—and son. “I got my hustle from Trisha, and I got my nurturing aspect from my mom,” Veronica said. “Combining those two made me a good trainer.” When Veronica imagines TLC’s next five or 10 years, she sees the possibility of another location, perhaps even outside North Dakota. But in her vision, expansion would not simply mean placing another dot on a map. It would mean identifying an employee or family ready for a

new opportunity and giving them the structure to build something of their own. That is how Veronica has come to understand growth: the company moves forward by helping its people move forward. Fifteen years ago, she was not sure she could make it through a second day. Today, she is the person standing in front of a classroom, showing new employees that difficult work can be learned, mistakes can become lessons and a job can grow into a career—and even a community. People still ask what she plans to do next. Her answer is simple. “I can work here forever, can’t I?

Monica Hart MONICA HART INTERIOR DESIGN

About Monica Monica Hart grew up in the small town of Karlstad, Minnesota, before attending North Dakota State University, where she earned a degree in interior design in 1997. Her professional journey began at the NDSU Alumni Association. She later completed an internship and accepted her first design position with Ste. Marie Design, a hospitality firm where she developed experience in commercial and hospitality design. After the firm closed its Fargo branch in 2002, Monica worked for a builder and then at a design center. Those roles introduced her to residential design and new construction, areas that quickly became professional passions. She also passed the NCIDQ examination, becoming a certified interior designer. The experience Monica gained throughout these positions prepared her to pursue her longtime goal of owning a business. Establishing Monica Hart Interior Design also gave her greater flexibility to balance her career with the role she values most: being a mother. Monica Hart Interior Design provides comprehensive design services tailored to each client’s needs. The firm works

on light commercial projects, new construction, remodels and room refreshes, while also assisting clients with smaller decisions such as selecting the right paint color. Monica’s goal is to make professional design guidance approachable, whether a client is planning an entire building project or simply updating one space. Beyond her work with clients, Monica remains actively involved in the local design and building industries. She is a member of North Dakota Interior Designers, volunteers with the Parade of Homes Committee and serves on the board of the Building Industry Association. Outside of work and volunteering, Monica enjoys spending time with her family. She and her husband, Phil, have three sons: Griffin, who lives and works in St. Paul; Marcus, who lives and works in Chicago; and Henry, a senior at Davies High School. Monica also enjoys attending her sons’ activities, visiting with friends, spending time with her cats, Olive and Pepper, and traveling whenever she gets the opportunity.

Services • New Construction - both commercial and residential • Remodels - both commercial and residential • Room refresh

54 | SEPTEMBER 2026 | MEETFARGO.COM

• Space planning • Furniture selections • Provide: Blinds, custom furniture, wallcovering, drapes, bedding

BY JOSIAH KOPP

Featured Project

Contractor: Hanson Bros

Custom Cabinets: Country Classics

Floors:

Carpet World

Furniture:

Hom Furniture Photos provided by Monica Hart

56 | SEPTEMBER 2026 | MEETFARGO.COM

CHARMING LAKE COTTAGE REMODEL

"This tiny lake home has been family-owned for MANY years and was in need of a small addition and update. The owners kept the pine walls and ceiling, so we chose a beautiful, watery blue for the custom cabinets to soften all of the wood tones. White countertops add a crisp and bright addition to the small but functional kitchen. New luxury vinyl plank floors in a light wood tone with very little grain complement the pine perfectly. We chose a clean white tile for the primary shower but added a pretty glass accent on the walls and a fun pattern on the shower floor. New furniture in a new arrangement completed the final look.

Paige Breidenbach MOSAIC INTERIOR DESIGN

About Paige “Hi There! My name is Paige, and I am the owner of Mosaic Interior Design. I am so happy you are here! I graduated from North Dakota State University’s CIDA Accredited Interior Design Program in 2020 and have extensive experience working at Fargo’s Eco Chic Home and Trever Hill Design before joining Mosaic Interior Design. Having spent my college internship in Florida, I was introduced to various types of design and had the privilege of returning

to Fargo with a new perspective. I had the opportunity to purchase Mosaic in February of 2023. That decision has led me to grow in several ways and has given me the ability to fully express my creativity within my projects. It has been a truly rewarding experience, and I look forward to the many more years ahead of curating beautiful spaces! When I’m not designing, you can find me at home baking or spending quality time with my Fiancé Matt, family, and friends.”

Q&A HOW DID YOU GET STARTED IN INTERIOR DESIGN?

WHERE DID YOU TRAIN OR STUDY DESIGN?

I grew up with a mom who was an Interior Designer, a grandma who enjoyed/was very good at decorating, and a great aunt who was also an interior designer. We moved a lot growing up with the same goals: buy a house, fix it up, resell. I was always around creativity and design, plus the occasional HGTV watching of course! I always knew it was something I wanted to pursue, so I went into college at NDSU knowing that is what I wanted to major in. I stuck with it and never would have imagined I would be where I am today.

I graduated from NDSU in 2020 with my Major in Interior Design and Minor in Entrepreneurship. I started working at Eco Chic as a sophomore. During my junior year, I did my summer internship in St. Augustine, FL, before my senior year, then worked with Trever Hill Design in December of my senior year. I stayed with Trever Hill Design for 2.5 years before starting with Melanie at Mosaic Interior Design in the spring of 2022. I was then presented with the opportunity to purchase Mosaic and closed the deal February 21, 2023.

58 | SEPTEMBER 2026 | MEETFARGO.COM

PROVIDED BY PAIGE BREIDENBACH

Q&A (Continued) HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR DESIGN STYLE? Although I love most styles and enjoy working with them all. My personal style is typically more soft, natural, with sprinkles of traditional mixed with modern/some vintage.

WHAT MAKES YOUR APPROACH OR AESTHETIC UNIQUE? The client always comes first. I’m sure to prioritize their needs, from the functionality of the design to budget. Working with myself 1:1 ensures all communication is clear and expectations are met. Mosaic also offers project management services—a unique specialty that makes any size project stress-free. As for aesthetics, I’m fortunate enough to have worked for some incredible designers with varying design perspectives. These experiences have allowed me to dip my toes into several style types from Florida to Fargo. The best part is that now I am able to utilize my knowledge of all three mentors and incorporate them into every one of my projects. It’s truly such a blessing!

WHAT KINDS OF PROJECTS DO YOU MOST ENJOY WORKING ON? This question is tough—I truly love all project types. If I had to choose a favorite, it would have to be renovations no matter the size. From the initial consultation to providing 3D renderings and mood boards, then seeing it all come to life is pretty amazing. I love a good before and after.

HOW HAS YOUR STYLE EVOLVED OVER THE YEARS? Honestly, I think my style has remained decently consistent over the years. It may be slightly more refined nowadays, but I really enjoy a good mix of certain styles for my own home.

WHAT DO YOU WISH CLIENTS UNDERSTOOD BETTER ABOUT INTERIOR DESIGN? Expectations can be tricky. When you hire an interior designer, it is so important to review budget, timelines, and expectations. Many people would think a powder bath renovation would be easy and relatively quick to complete when done by professionals. The behind the scenes requires hours of communication, site meetings, scheduling, etc., typically all between roughly seven different contractors. Be sure to go into these types of projects with patience and grace. Your designer is doing everything they can to ensure a 60 | SEPTEMBER 2026 | MEETFARGO.COM

smooth experience for everyone involved, but it is very common for things to shift. That’s just part of it—but the best part is that you will have an incredible space when it’s all said and done!

WHAT DESIGN TRENDS ARE YOU SEEING MOST OFTEN IN THE FM AREA RIGHT NOW? Every designer has their own flair. As for trends, arches and slats have been pretty popular - which I absolutely love in the right space.

WHAT PROJECT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF, AND WHY? A completed project that I am most proud of would have to be my Sixth Street Transformation project. It is a powder bath that was dark and outdated, now turned bright, elevated, and a true jaw dropper (especially in person). This is one of my first ‘full renovations’ that is completed. The overall process went very smoothly, and the result is so much more than we anticipated. I am very grateful to have been part of it.

WHAT’S ONE PIECE OF ADVICE YOU ALWAYS GIVE YOUR CLIENTS? This will vary greatly depending on the project type. Generally, I would say the most versatile advice I give is to highly consider the functionality/how they will utilize the space. A series of questions are asked at the initial consultation; however, this is by far the most important question/advice. If this isn’t heavily considered, they may reflect back a year later and wish they would have done it a different way. Doing it right the first time, even if it may add a little more to the bill is always well worth it.

WHAT COMMON MISTAKES DO HOMEOWNERS MAKE WHEN DESIGNING OR RENOVATING? A couple of mistakes I can think of would be budget and timelines. If someone is attempting a first-time DIY renovation project, they may be amazing at it and have all the right tools (which is great!). I will root them on, absolutely! However, not everyone has those natural abilities or the time/money they think they would need to finish something. A lot of people prefer to DIY to save on costs (completely understandable), but if you don’t do the proper research beforehand, which could take months, you may end up spending more in the process than you would have spent hiring it out.

HOW DO YOU BALANCE AESTHETICS WITH FUNCTIONALITY? I feel that the balance between aesthetics and functionality has tremendously increased in the last few years. It is much easier now to find something that is both functional and also aesthetically pleasing, no matter what it might be. The first step would be to understand the desired functionality of a space and go from there with sourcing the pieces to make that happen. If you aren’t able to get that perfect balance in a sofa, for example, you can always add that aesthetic through throw pillows, area rugs and/or accessories.

WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE MATERIALS OR PRODUCTS TO WORK WITH, AND WHY? I love working with wallcovering and tile. They are finishes that can enhance a space with their unique textures, colors, and patterns. I typically always recommend utilizing wallcovering, whether it’s peel and stick or paste; the transformation it will make is huge.

HOW DO YOU APPROACH LIGHTING, COLOR, AND SPACE PLANNING? This is 100% space dependent. Lighting holds the greatest impact for a space in my opinion. You’ll have your main source of lighting, then incorporate lamps, sconces, picture lights, etc. for ambiance. The type/ number of light sources will depend on the space it is in and the functions that occur in that space. As for color, this one can be extra fun to work with. This is space/client dependent. Some people love color, and others love neutrals. The laundry room and powder bath are two areas that typically have the most leeway when getting into color/fun designs. Space planning is always figured as a result of how the space will be used. I like to offer typically two different layout options per space to my clients.

HOW DO YOU CHOOSE TRADE PARTNERS AND SUPPLIERS? I have worked with the same contractors since my first design job with Trever Hill. I’ve added a few since owning Mosaic, but have always maintained a good relationship with the OG’s. Quality is most important for me to offer my clients. That being said, when I work with someone I know will deliver quality, I’m loyal to them.

Featured Project

• Relocated the HVAC ceiling vent • Wired in and installed a semi-flush mount • Replaced the vanity light with pendants • Demoed the existing vanity/sink and replaced with a custom vanity • Installed wall tile on the vanity wall • New mirror • Demoed existing floor tile and installed new marble mosaic flooring • All new hardware • All walls and the ceiling were skimcoated and limewashed by Weyer Companies • One-of-a-kind local art by Kate Baldock

Contractors used on this project:

Weyer Companies, Showcase Floors, Clearwater Cabinetry, Northern Stone, Elevate Electric, SoS Carpentry, Geothermal Solutions, Crossroads Plumbing Photos provided by Paige Breidenbach

SIXTH STREET POWDER BATH TRANSFORMATION Before

Before

Mosaic Interior Design | MOSAICFARGO.COM | SEARCH "MOSAIC INTERIOR DESIGN" | @MOSAICFARGO | /MOSAIC-DESIGNBUILD 63

Joann Sevald RIEGIS DESIGN CO. LLC

About Joann As a full-service residential interior designer serving the Fargo– Moorhead and lakes area, Joann Sevald helps homeowners create spaces that are beautiful, functional, and thoughtfully tailored to the way they live. Whether a client is updating a single space or transforming an entire home, her role is to simplify the process. She believes great design is about more than selecting beautiful finishes. It is about making informed decisions, solving problems before they arise, and creating a home that feels effortless to live in.

Services • Home Refresh & Furnishings • Boutique Commercial Design • New Construction • Remodels

64 | SEPTEMBER 2026 | MEETFARGO.COM

Clients seek her expertise because they value professional guidance and need a trusted partner to manage the countless details and investments involved in a successful project. Instead of feeling overwhelmed by endless choices, clients receive a clear plan, thoughtful recommendations, and a designer who advocates for their vision from beginning to end. From concept through completion, she guides every step of the design process with careful attention to detail, open communication, and a commitment to creating homes that feel cohesive, timeless, and uniquely suited to each client.

PROVIDED BY JOANN SEVALD

Featured Project

Location:

Downtown Fargo

Project Type:

Condominium Renovation

Scope:

Primary Suite Addition, Bathroom Remodel & Custom Closet Design

Services:

Interior Design, Space Planning, Custom Cabinetry Design, Bathroom Design, Lighting Design, Finish Selections, Construction Documentation & Contractor Collaboration

Highlights:

Loft-to-primary-suite conversion, doublesided fireplace, freestanding soaking tub, wall-mounted faucets, illuminated custom vanity, Toto bidet, custom walk-in closet, integrated laundry, preservation of existing fir beams, and lighting redesign within the existing ceiling layout. Photos provided by Joann Sevald

66 | SEPTEMBER 2026 | MEETFARGO.COM

ELEVATED URBAN RETREAT

Featured Project

ELEVATED URBAN RETREAT

"Located in a downtown Fargo condominium, this upper-level renovation transformed an open loft into a luxurious primary suite designed for comfort, functionality, and everyday living. What was once an exercise room became a private retreat featuring a spacious bedroom, spa-inspired bathroom, custom closet, and dedicated makeup area—all thoughtfully integrated within the existing architecture." "Working within the condo's structural constraints required careful planning. Existing fir beams became a defining architectural feature, while the original lighting layout was reimagined with updated fixtures that provided the warmth and illumination the homeowners desired. Because the unit was located on the third floor, every cabinet, countertop, and fixture had to be carefully specified to ensure it could be transported by elevator and installed efficiently."

"A double-sided fireplace creates a striking focal point, connecting the bedroom with the bathroom and adding warmth beneath the freestanding soaking tub. Luxury details—including wall-mounted faucets, illuminated floating cabinetry, a Toto bidet, custom tilework, and a thoughtfully designed walk-in closet with a stacked washer and dryer— elevate the suite while making everyday routines effortless. The result is a sophisticated urban sanctuary that seamlessly blends thoughtful functionality with timeless design." 68 | SEPTEMBER 2026 | MEETFARGO.COM

BUSINESSES TO KNOW

72 | SEPTEMBER 2026 | MEETFARGO.COM

RESIDENTIAL HOUSE CLEANING

TLC Cleaning works with homeowners who need either a consistent cleaning schedule or help with a larger, one-time project. Its residential services include recurring cleaning, deep cleaning, move-in and move-out service and new-construction cleanup. | tlccleaningexperts.com | /tlccleaningfargo

| @tlccleaningexperts

Heather’s Housekeeping has served clients in the Fargo–Moorhead area since 2002. In addition to general residential cleaning, the company offers move-in and move-out cleaning for people preparing a property for its next occupant. Its long-running local presence and residential focus make it a company to consider for both ongoing household upkeep and transition-related cleaning. | heathershousekeepingfm.com

| Search “Heather’s Housekeeping” | @heathershousekeepingfm

Founded in Fargo in 1981, Steam Masters is one of the area’s longest-running carpet-cleaning specialists. The company works in homes as well as offices, hotels, and rental properties, and its residential service emphasizes a deep-cleaning process intended to avoid leaving irritating chemical residue in carpet fibers. It is particularly relevant for homeowners with heavily used carpeted rooms or an entire house to refresh. | fargocarpetcleaner.com | /Fargocarpetcleaner

| @fargocleaner

CONTINUED

CARPET, UPHOLSTERY AND FLOOR CLEANING

Brighter Carpet Cleaning is a family-owned Fargo business offering carpet cleaning, upholstery cleaning, and stain removal throughout the Fargo–Moorhead area. The company can also address upholstered furniture and other surfaces, making it useful when more than the floors need attention. | brightercarpetcleaners.com | /BrighterCarpetCleaners

| @brightercareptcleaning

Rather than heavily saturating carpet with a traditional steamcleaning process, the company uses an oxygen-powered, low-moisture system designed to conserve water and leave most carpets dry in about one hour. Additional services include upholstery, area-rug, hardwood-floor and tile-and-grout cleaning, along with treatments for stains, pet odors and carpet protection. | oxifresh.com

| /OxiFreshWestFargoND | @oxifresh

WINDOW, GUTTER AND EXTERIOR CLEANING

Established in 1973, Brite-Way Window Cleaning provides residential and commercial service throughout Fargo, West Fargo, Moorhead and the surrounding region. Residential options include interior and exterior glass cleaning, with screen and track cleaning available. The company also offers gutter cleaning, downspout clearing and gutter-guard installation, allowing homeowners to combine two common seasonal maintenance jobs. | kellersbriteway.com | /kellersbriteway

74 | SEPTEMBER 2026 | MEETFARGO.COM

Metro Window Washing has served Fargo–Moorhead and portions of the Minnesota lakes area since 2014. The company concentrates on professional window washing and is licensed and insured, with crews trained in updated products and cleaning techniques. | metrowindowwashingllc.com

| /MetroWindowWashing

ORGANIZING, DECLUTTERING AND STORAGE

House to Home is a professional organizing company serving Fargo, Moorhead and the Red River Valley. Its work combines decluttering, organizing, and space planning with systems tailored to the homeowner’s routines and style. The company can also help unpack and organize a newly occupied home, which may be valuable for clients who want to avoid living out of boxes for weeks after a move. | housetohome-nd.com | /housetohome.nd

| @housetohome.nd

| smartspacesorg.com | /SmartSpacesOrg

CONTINUED

Smart Spaces approaches organization through permanent, custom-built storage. The Fargo company designs systems for walk-in and reach-in closets, garages, pantries, mudrooms, laundry rooms, children’s rooms and home offices. Its process covers consultation, design, quoting and installation, making it a fit for homeowners who need more than temporary bins and would rather create storage specifically for the dimensions and demands of the space.

INTERIOR DESIGN

Lindsey Grace Interiors is a Fargo-based full-service design studio specializing in residential work. Its services include new construction, remodel management, interior decorating and e-design, with the team able to assist from floor-plan development and finish selections through furniture and final décor. The studio is positioned for clients seeking extensive design involvement rather than help selecting only a paint color or single furnishing. | lindseygraceinteriors.com | /lindseygraceinteriors

| @lindseygraceinteriors

Based in Moorhead, Studio A provides interior design and curated furnishings for clients throughout Fargo–Moorhead and the lakes area. Its services encompass space planning, material selections, remodel collaboration, custom furniture, furnishings, and décor. | designbystudioa.com | /DesignbyStudioA

Studio Rogue is a full-service residential design studio serving the Fargo–Moorhead area. Its offerings include design for new construction and remodeling, along with consultations and e-design. That combination provides multiple entry points—a homeowner can bring the studio into a large building project or seek professional direction for a smaller update without committing to an entire home transformation. | studiorogueinteriordesign.com | /studiorogueid

| @studiorogueid

76 | SEPTEMBER 2026 | MEETFARGO.COM

Trever Hill Design handles both residential and commercial interiors from its Fargo base. The studio’s listed capabilities include finish selections, custom furniture, decorating, staging, mood boards, schedules, three-dimensional renderings, and AutoCAD space planning. This technical and decorative range can be valuable on projects where the designer must communicate detailed ideas to builders, tradespeople, and homeowners before physical work begins. | treverhilldesign.com | /treverhilldesign

CONTINUED

| @treverhilldesign

INTERIOR DESIGN

Design Direction has provided residential and commercial interiordesign services in the Fargo–Moorhead community since 2005. The firm can become involved while a floor plan is still being finalized and continue through the selection of products, materials, and finishes. Its process is well suited to new construction or significant renovations in which early space-planning decisions will affect nearly every later choice. | designdirectionfargo.com | /designdirectionfargo

| @designdirectionfargo

Monica Hart Interior Design offers full-service assistance for new construction, remodeling, and light commercial projects. The studio also works on more contained room-refresh projects involving paint, space planning, furniture, accessories, and artwork. That flexibility allows homeowners to seek professional help whether they are designing an entire house or trying to make an existing room feel more complete and cohesive. | monicahartid.com | /monica.hart.39

| @monicahartinteriordesign

The Home Authority uses a design-build approach that places design, planning, and construction within one coordinated process. The Fargo–Moorhead company specializes in kitchens, bathrooms, basements, additions, and whole-home remodeling. It is most relevant for homeowners undertaking substantial renovations and looking for one team to manage the project from early design decisions through construction and final completion. | homeauthorityinc.com | /homeauthorityinc

| @homeauthorityinc

CONTINUED

REMODELING

PAINTING, DRYWALL AND INSULATION

Weyer Companies provides residential and commercial painting and drywall services in Fargo–Moorhead. Its work includes interior and exterior painting, drywall installation, remodeling work and repairs, with one team able to carry a damaged or unfinished wall from drywall work through the final coat of paint. That continuity can simplify projects involving cracks, holes, water-damaged sections or newly constructed rooms. | weyercompanies.com | /WeyerCompanies

| @weyercompanies

With a history dating to 1964, Lepird Decorating and Drywall serves Fargo, West Fargo, and nearby communities. The company handles painting, drywall work and repairs ranging from small damaged areas to larger renovation projects. Its long local tenure makes it a noteworthy option for homeowners dealing with aging walls, dated finishes or rooms that require both surface repair and repainting. | lepirddrywall.com

| Search “Lepird Decorating and Drywall”

HEATING, COOLING AND PLUMBING

| laneysinc.com | /LaneysInc

| @laneysinc

CONTINUED

Laney’s has served Fargo, West Fargo, Moorhead, and surrounding communities since 1960. The locally owned company offers heating, cooling, plumbing, electrical, indoor-air-quality and water-treatment services. Its range makes Laney’s one of the metro’s more comprehensive mechanical-service providers, particularly for homeowners who prefer to maintain several major household systems through the same company.

HEATING, COOLING AND PLUMBING

Home Heating, Plumbing & A/C has served the Fargo– Moorhead area since 1942. The company works on heating, cooling, plumbing, and indoor-air-quality systems in homes and businesses. Its longevity and concentrated home-comfort focus make it a company to consider for furnace and air-conditioning maintenance, plumbing needs and projects intended to improve how air moves through the house. | homehtg.com | /HomeHtg

Moorhead Plumbing & Heating is a locally owned, family-operated company that has been in business for more than a century. It provides plumbing, water-heater, heating and air-conditioning service throughout Moorhead, Fargo, and the surrounding area, and works on multiple equipment makes and models. It is a particularly natural starting point for Moorhead homeowners wanting an established mechanical contractor close to home. | lepirddrywall.com

| Search “Lepird Decorating and Drywall”

Precision offers plumbing, drain cleaning, heating, cooling, water treatment, radon mitigation, and sewer-related work from its West Fargo location. Its services range from routine repairs and equipment replacement to sump pumps, camera inspections, trenchless sewer repair, and emergency response. The breadth is useful when a plumbing problem extends beyond a visible fixture and requires diagnostic or underground work. | precisionpe.com

| /precision.plumbing.heating.cooling.dirtworks

82 | SEPTEMBER 2026 | MEETFARGO.COM

CONTINUED

| @moorheadplumbing

HEATING, COOLING AND PLUMBING

Patriot Air is a locally owned West Fargo HVAC company serving Fargo, Moorhead, West Fargo, and neighboring communities. Its residential services cover furnaces, boilers, heat pumps, air conditioning, ductless systems, zoning, indoor air quality, water heaters, home automation, and maintenance. The company is focused primarily on home-comfort equipment, making it relevant for repair, replacement, and preventive HVAC work. | patriotairnd.com | /patriotairnd

Bears Home Solutions is a third-generation, family-owned company serving the Red River Valley since 1978. Its Fargo team provides heating, air-conditioning and plumbing services, including heat pumps, boilers, ductless systems, indoor-air-quality work, drain cleaning, water heaters, leak detection, radon mitigation, and fireplace service. The company can therefore address both traditional mechanical systems and several related home-comfort concerns. | bearshomesolutions.com | /bearshsfargo

| @bearshomesolutions

RESIDENTIAL ELECTRICAL WORK

| gracewires.com | /gracewires

CONTINUED

Grace Electric is a residential and commercial electrical contractor serving Fargo–Moorhead. Founded and operated by electrician Grace Cummings Pas, the company works with homeowners and businesses on electrical needs throughout the area. It offers a locally based option for projects that require a licensed electrical contractor rather than a general repair service.

RESIDENTIAL ELECTRICAL WORK

Red River Electric provides residential, commercial, and industrial electrical-contractor services in Fargo, Moorhead, and the Minnesota lakes area. Its cross-sector experience makes it relevant for household electrical work as well as larger or more technically involved installations. Homeowners planning a remodel, new wiring or an electrical-system update can consult the company about the residential portion of its work. | redriverelectric.com | /redriverelectric

ROOFING, SIDING, WINDOWS AND EXTERIOR REMODELING

Vita Roofing handles roof inspections, repairs, complete replacements and damage caused by hail, wind and other severe weather. Vita Roofing is an authorized Klaus Roofing Systems dealer and offers qualifying roofing systems with transferable warranties of up to 50 years. The company also assists homeowners with documenting storm damage and navigating the insurance-claim process. Its online estimating tool allows property owners to receive an initial localized roof estimate before scheduling an on-site inspection, while 24-hour emergency service is available for urgent roofing problems. | fargoroofing.com

| Search “Vita Roofing” | @vitaroofing

| westernproducts.com | /WesternProducts

| @westernproducts

CONTINUED

Western Products has operated since 1948 and offers siding, windows, roofing, and other exterior home-improvement services. Its longevity and concentration on building-envelope products make it a resource for homeowners planning a substantial exterior update rather than a small repair. The company is especially relevant when several exterior components—such as aging siding and inefficient windows—need to be evaluated together.

ROOFING, SIDING, WINDOWS AND EXTERIOR REMODELING

Allstar provides roofing repair, replacement, and storm-damage restoration throughout Fargo–Moorhead. The company reports more than 45 years of regional experience and also works on broader exterior projects. It is a company to consider after hail or wind damage, when a homeowner may need an inspection, repair recommendations and assistance determining whether a complete roof replacement is appropriate. | allstarfargo.com | /allstarfargo

Fargo Roofing & Siding serves residential and commercial properties throughout Fargo, Moorhead, West Fargo and nearby communities. Its work includes roof replacement and repair, siding, gutters, storm-damage work, ice-dam removal and emergency roof service. The company states that it is licensed in North Dakota and Minnesota and has served the metro since 2017. | fargoroofing.com | /fargoroofing

| @fargoroofingsiding

All-Terrain provides full-service property maintenance that includes mowing, weed control, and fertilizer applications, tree pruning, shrub trimming, irrigation repairs, landscape maintenance, and snow removal. The service range allows homeowners to use one provider across several seasons rather than finding separate companies for lawn treatments, irrigation problems, plant maintenance and winter snow. | allterrainfargo.com | /AllTerrainFargo | @allterrainfargo

88 | SEPTEMBER 2026 | MEETFARGO.COM

CONTINUED

LAWN CARE, LANDSCAPING AND SNOW REMOVAL

Valley Landscaping has served Fargo–Moorhead and the surrounding area since 1996. Its work encompasses landscape installation, outdoor-living projects, lawn care, and ongoing property maintenance. | valleylandscaping.com

| Search “Valley Landscaping / Curb Master”

Manny’s provides residential and commercial lawn care, landscaping and snow-removal services throughout Fargo– Moorhead. The year-round structure is convenient for homeowners who want one company to manage warm-weather property appearance and winter access. It can handle regular maintenance while also serving as a contact for larger landscaping improvements. | mannyslawn.com

| /mannyslawnandsnow

PEST AND MOSQUITO CONTROL

| prairiepestcontrol.net | /PrairiePest

| @prairiepestcontrol

90 | SEPTEMBER 2026 | MEETFARGO.COM

CONTINUED

Prairie Pest Control works with residential and commercial properties in Fargo and communities throughout the surrounding Minnesota region. Its services address the seasonal pests common to Midwestern homes, including insects and rodents that may appear or move indoors at different times of year. Homeowners can use the company for an active infestation or discuss an ongoing preventive service plan.

PEST AND MOSQUITO CONTROL

SafeYard specializes in outdoor and perimeter pest control. The locally owned company treats mosquitoes, ticks, spiders, and flies in Fargo–Moorhead and nearby communities. Its narrower focus makes it especially relevant for households trying to make patios, lawns, and play areas more usable during the summer rather than addressing a major indoor pest or rodent problem. | safeyard.net

| /SafeYard

WATER, FIRE AND MOLD RESTORATION

Rainbow Restoration of Fargo offers round-the-clock help with water mitigation, fire damage, mold remediation, and related property recovery. Carpet cleaning and odor-related services are also part of its local operation. The company identifies its restoration professionals as IICRC-certified, giving homeowners a provider equipped for both emergency stabilization and specialized cleanup. | rainbowrestores.com | /rainbowoffargo

Midwest Moving Company began in Fargo and maintains its headquarters in West Fargo. It provides local and long-distance residential moving, commercial moving, packing assistance and junk removal, with service extending across Fargo, West Fargo, Moorhead and nearby communities. The broad menu lets customers add packing or decluttering support rather than hiring movers only for loading and transportation. | midwestmovingcomp.com

| /MidwestMovingCompanyFargoMoorhead | @midwestmovingcompany

CONTINUED

MOVING, PACKING AND JUNK REMOVAL

The locally owned Fargo TWO MEN AND A TRUCK operation handles moves across town and across the country. Beyond standard residential moving, the team provides packing materials, loading and unloading, internal furniture rearrangement, and transportation of difficult items such as pianos. It can also take eligible loads to recycling or donation centers, helping homeowners reduce what reaches the new house. | twomenandtruck.com | /TMTFARGO

| @twomenandatruckfargo

FLOORING, CABINETRY AND INTERIOR SURFACES

Fargo Linoleum has served the Fargo–Moorhead area since 1926. The downtown Fargo business sells and installs carpet, vinyl, tile, wood, and laminate flooring and also works with countertops. Its product and installation capabilities make it a starting point for homeowners who want help moving from material selection through professional installation. | fargolinolium.com | /fargolinoleum

| @fargolinoleum

Floor to Ceiling Carpet One combines flooring services with kitchen and bathroom design. In addition to floor-covering projects, the Fargo company works on cabinets, countertops, custom-tiled showers and related interior selections. It may be especially convenient during kitchen or bathroom remodeling, when flooring, cabinetry, tile, and surfaces need to be visually coordinated. | floortoceilingcarpetone.com | /floortoceilingfargo

94 | SEPTEMBER 2026 | MEETFARGO.COM

Wendt Custom Cabinets creates cabinetry for kitchens, bathrooms, and other storage areas in homes throughout Fargo– Moorhead. The company works across modern, traditional, and luxury styles and also brings countertop experience into its projects. Because the cabinetry is custom-built, homeowners can develop storage around unusual dimensions, specific household routines, or a remodeling plan that standard cabinet sizes cannot easily accommodate. | wendtcustomcabinets.com

| /WendtCustomCabinets

| @wendtcustomcabinets

GARAGE DOORS AND APPLIANCE REPAIR

Overhead Door Company of Fargo installs and repairs residential and commercial garage doors, openers, and related accessories. Its service department works on multiple brands, not only Overhead Door products. Homeowners can contact the company for problems involving springs, operators, damaged doors or unreliable access, as well as for a complete replacement intended to update appearance or performance. | overheaddoorfargo.com | /overheadfargo

HOME INSPECTIONS AND RADON SERVICES

In addition to comprehensive home inspections, the company offers radon testing and mitigation, mold inspections and environmental testing services. After evaluating the property, Nordic provides a detailed report explaining observed conditions and potential repair or maintenance concerns. The service can help buyers better understand a property before closing, while also assisting current homeowners who want to identify moisture, air-quality, safety or structural concerns. Nordic states that its inspectors carry nationally recognized certifications through organizations including ASHI, ACAC and NRPP. | nordichomeinspection.com | /NordicInspections

| @nordicinspections

Kalohe Designs

Meet The

By Ashley Morken, Owner, Unglued

Photos provided by Ashley Morken

98 | SEPTEMBER 2026 | MEETFARGO.COM

e met Kalohe through the Brewhalla Craft Markets and love seeing the variety of artwork they create—and not just variety in the artwork itself, but the mediums used as well! Get to know more about the maker below from living in Florida to attending Concordia College and jumping into the world of art markets!

Tell us a bit about yourself! I’m originally from Lakeland, Florida where I grew up in the heat and the swamps. After graduating from a technology high school, where I majored in graphic design, I moved up to Moorhead to attend Concordia College from which I graduated in 2019 with a BA in Pre-Professional Graphic Design and studio art. During college I also found a new love of mine, the local music scene. When I wasn’t in the studio or working front counter at Addictions Tattoo; I was at a hardcore show with my friends. Whether it be a downtown venue or someone’s basement, I was getting my eardrums unnecessarily damaged and hanging out with the coolest people in this town. This lead me to being passionate about posters and I ended up collaborating with a bunch of bands and events to create their promotional flyers for shows, markets, and other events. After college I hopped directly into the big design world and became a sticker designer for a local design company where I spent four years creating and leading a team of amazing artists and keeping up my art business on the side. I eventually realized that graphic design, while it had gotten me to a lot of cool places, just wasn’t what I wanted to be doing anymore, at least in a corporate space. I left the office and headed back to kitchen work in 2023 and kept up my art business in the background while I worked to pursue my true passion, tattooing. While I still haven’t quite broken into the space yet, over the years I have designed many of mine and others pieces. In my free time, I’m either listening to music, such as La dispute or Ashnikko, partaking in a horror or true crime podcast, like Radio Rental or Last Podcast on the Left, all while cuddling with my cats or baking bread, cookies, or making pizza from scratch in my kitchen for my girlfriend. Describe what type of products you create as Kalohe Designs. I love to dabble in many different mediums, but I fell in love with the printmaking process and tend to gravitate towards those items. But I also love watercolor, oil painting, digital drawings, pen and ink, and woodworking. I have a lot of pieces turned into stickers and recently have added art prints of my digital

and traditional media pieces to my inventory. I love to find new ways to get my art onto things so I’ve recently picked up handmade keychains and patches as well. Tell us how you got started with your handcrafted business? What inspired you? I’ve been painting and creating since I was little. My first award was in 3rd grade, I won first place for a watercolor painting of some orcas. My mom still has it in her house to this day. I just never stopped after that. I have this innate need to find new mediums to try and love to learn new ways to create. I was asked one day if I would want to sell my pieces at a benefit show after a tragic passing of one of our local music scene members, which I also had the pleasure of designing the flyer for. I had never participated in a market before but quickly set on getting pieces together. It was beautiful to be a part of and I felt like I truly belonged and was appreciated for my work in the scene. Ever since then, I expanded on my market set up, adding new products and enlisting my father in hand designing and crafting displays for my pieces. I wanted to stand out and have something unique. If you’ve ever been to a show I’ve participated in you would know my spinning spider web sticker display and my light up coffin painting stand. Which fits my vibe perfectly. You have a wide range of work from concert posters to branding to linocuts and stickers! How has your business evolved over the years to include this variety? I just love to try new things and experiment. I get bored when things get easy so I give myself a new challenge of learning something I’ve never done before. Sometimes it’s not great, like my experiments with clay and sculpting. 3D is just not my thing. But I also change with the seasons of life. When I was in college I was focused on logos and branding. At the height of my concert and show attendance I was always working on a new poster or tshirt design: especially at the height of my career at the graphic design company. After leaving, I turned to a more traditional route, really focusing on oil painting and watercolor along with pen and ink. I even got into wood carvings for a little bit while I waited for my wood stains to dry on some furniture I was refurbishing. I like to have a

variety because I can either learn something new or go back to one of my old loves. Right now I’m in a big linocut kick and have about 4-5 blocks in various stages of carving and printing. It’s just that season for me and I never know what my next big kick is gonna be. You do a lot of custom work—what do you enjoy most about that process? I love a good collaboration. I think that’s what’s so cool about being asked to do something for someone, whether it’s for a band or a business or just a personal request. They see something in you and your art and you get to work together to create something. It has a little piece of both of us in that design. Talking to a client and getting to see what they like and design something for them is always cool, especially when it ends up in a fun space—like my painting in Carmine and Hayworth. A witch friend of mine, Hex Hilde, reached out to me and I created an anti theft painting, which they then hexed, and now hangs proudly in their store, warding off those with sticky fingers. It’s also fun to see my poster around town and be like, ”Hey! That’s me!” And just knowing people are getting their eyes on my stuff is such a cool feeling. I saw the incredible flash art you are creating and sharing online! Can you tell us more about that? Now, that is a little hush hush. At least the intimate details with it. But let’s just say that I’ve been working really hard toward my goal of becoming a tattoo apprentice and I’ve been gearing up for that. I’ve been really putting in the foundation for that to come to fruition. And hopefully very soon there will be something to announce. You’re definitely going to want to stick around for that. Tell us more about your linocut work! What is something someone might find surprising about working with linocut prints? I fell in love with printmaking due to my wonderful art professor at Concordia, Heidi Goldberg. She was such an important figure to me and had a hand in molding me into the artist I am today. She was so passionate about prints, intaglios, woodcuts, lino, aquatinting, and all forms of creation. I think the coolest thing about linocut is the

continued>

process and the history. While I do many linocuts, my true love is intaglio, but it is very hard to do in a small studio in my apartment and requires things like copper plates, acid, water baths, and more chemicals and steps than I could possibly handle in my studio. Linocuts are my cost-friendly alternative that I’m still very passionate about and love to do them. I even host art nights in my home where I teach my friends how to do it. I even had a friend who brought a newbie in one night and they fell in love with the process so much that I gifted them some tools and they still make them to this day. There’s something about taking a block and carving it for hours, inking up, and hearing that tack of the ink on the roller, and pulling up a freshly inked run that is just unmatched to any other art process that I’ve dabbled in. I highly suggest anyone to give it a try! You won’t regret it. Where does your inspo come from for new pieces? I definitely love to pull from tattoos, old flash books, and the occult. Anything witchy or based in general creepiness is a good inspo for me. I also like to pull from song lyrics. A lot of the lyricism can just create vivid mental imagery that just has to be brought into the world, and I love to be the one that does that. What has been the most challenging part of this handcrafted business? I think it’s the sitting part of a market, in front of potential clients and trying to not seem too scary, or scared, to talk to them about my pieces. Also keeping up a stable online presence. Sometimes editing a video is the last thing I want to do, but I’ve been having some fun recording my process and posting it on TikTok! I’ve made a couple friends with return clients and met some really cool and interesting people through the market and online space. There’s also a lot of random barriers of having an online business and a lot of it revolves around having enough money to pursue it. The domain costs, the market entry costs, the costs of materials and different product lines, can add up and really be discouraging and make you feel like you’re missing your chance. So I try to just focus on making cool stuff and when I can get out to a market or get something new I revel in it and try to make the best out of it I can, which has all been really rewarding.

100 | SEPTEMBER 2026 | MEETFARGO.COM

What has been the most rewarding part? The connections and the feeling of accomplishment. When those Facebook memories pop up of some of my first markets I can’t believe how far I’ve come. Or even just looking at some of my old art form high school that I thought was the absolute peak of my career that turns out to just be the beginning. The friends I’ve made are all so supportive and having people care about my creations and the artist behind them is just only describable as COOL AS HECK! There’s just no other way to say it, it just feels cool. What advice would you have given yourself five years ago? Five years ago I would’ve been a year out of college, in an office cubicle, single, stressed, and living alone with my two cats. But I don’t think I would’ve changed anything about what I was doing. I was just anxious about everything and sometimes too scared to make a decision. So I guess I would say, you’ve got this. Keep going. It all works out. Because if I hadn’t done what I did I wouldn’t be doing what I am now and truly starting to chase the dream I’ve thought of since I was young. I think I needed the rumination and that second guessing and turmoil. I think it made me a better artist and got me to the point where I don’t have to do the anxious dance and tribulations anymore. It was all practice. Where can people find your work or connect with you? I am working on being a part of a few markets right now, so to catch where I’ll be for sure follow my Instagram! I also have random sales there and you get first dibs on pieces there! If you wanna watch process videos and more in depth on my art follow my TikTok! And if you just like to see the pretty pictures and market announcements then my Facebook is for you! I’m Kalohe Designs on all those platforms!

Kalohe Designs | kalohedesigns.com | /kalohedesigns | @kalohedesigns | @kalohe666

FOLKWAYS GUIDE TO THE ART OF HOSTING

Throughout the year, Folkways hosts more than 30 community events, from the Red River Market and Night Bazaar to Christkindlmarkt. Each event is thoughtfully designed around the art of hosting, creating spaces where people want to linger, conversations flow easily, and there is always something to discover, taste, make, or share. For Folkways, good hosting creates room for people to participate, contribute, and connect with one another. That same approach can be brought home. A gathering does not need to be elaborate to create a sense of belonging. A shared meal, an activity around the table, live music in the backyard, or a bouquet of fresh flowers can give people a reason to slow down and enjoy being together. Folkways vendors offer plenty of ways to add those thoughtful touches to birthdays, weddings, dinner parties, showers, and everyday gatherings.

MAKE IT MEMORABLE A good gathering gives people opportunities to participate. An activity can create an easy starting point for conversation and give guests something to enjoy together. Bring a fun, hands on activity to your next gathering with OFF THE BRIM HAT BAR , Fargo Moorhead’s first custom trucker hat bar. Guests can choose their favorite hat, pick out patches, and create a personalized design that is heat pressed on the spot. It is a creative activity that gives everyone something fun to do and a custom hat to take home.

OFF THE BRIM HAT BAR

104 | SEPTEMBER 2026 | MEETFARGO.COM

By Amanda Frost, Marketing Manager - Folkways

STUCK ON YOU

STUCK ON YOU brings permanent jewelry to gatherings,

where guests can choose a chain and have it custom fitted and micro welded together. Everyone leaves with a small reminder of the time they spent together.

GROWARTISTRY

GROWARTISTRY brings a mobile art bar filled with handson projects such as bracelet making, charms, and mini paintings, along with face painting for guests of all ages. With supplies, setup, and cleanup included, it is an easy way to add creativity and play to your next gathering.

CONTINUED> 105

LOG THE SAUNA For a gathering centered around slowing down, LOG THE SAUNA , a Folkways run sauna, brings a traditional wood fired barrel sauna to your backyard. Private sessions can accommodate up to six people, creating a cozy place to spend an afternoon or evening with friends.

COOKIE KRUMS

COOKIE KRUMS brings cookie decorating

right to your home or book a session at her store front in West Fargo. Guests receive cookies and icing and create their own designs, with colors and shapes customized to fit the occasion.

KAIVA ROSE ASTROLOGY & TAROT

106 | SEPTEMBER 2026 | MEETFARGO.COM

For a little mystery, KAIVA ROSE ASTROLOGY & TAROT offers in person Tarot readings for private gatherings. Her work in Tarot, astrology, and Reiki gives guests a new experience to explore together and plenty to talk about afterward.

CONTINUED>

EHSANI

Fragrance can become an experience, too. EHSANI draws from Egyptian scent traditions and childhood memories of her mother layering fragrances throughout their home. At an Ehsani scent making party, guests create their own custom fragrance while learning about the history and meaning behind scent, leaving with something uniquely their own.

EXIT 44 FLOWERS & MORE

SET THE MOOD The environment of a gathering shapes how people experience it. Flowers, fragrance, music, and thoughtful details can help create a welcoming place where guests feel comfortable settling in.

EXIT 44 FLOWERS & MORE makes it easy to bring the

season home with a build your own bouquet bar filled with locally grown blooms available at the Red River Market. As the fresh flower season winds down, those blooms become dried creations such as wreaths, ornaments, shadowboxes, and trinket bottles.

A bouquet from THREE CHICKS GARDEN brings the feeling of a flower field straight to the table. This family run farm near Waubun, MN grows every flower and piece of greenery in its hand-wrapped bouquets, available at the Red River Market throughout the season.

THREE CHICKS GARDEN

STUDIO FSR combines music, scent, and texture

through small batch fragrances. The owner also writes music and creates a playlist specifically for each candle, adding a QR code so guests can listen while the candle burns. The scent and soundtrack work together to create an atmosphere that can become part of the evening itself.

STUDIO FSR

108 | SEPTEMBER 2026 | MEETFARGO.COM

CONTINUED>

LET THERE BE MUSIC Music can create a shared experience and give a gathering its rhythm. It can fill the quiet moments when guests arrive and eventually pull people out of their chairs and onto the dance floor.

JAVI & THE BRAMBLED HEARTS bring high

JAVI & THE BRAMBLED HEARTS

energy country covers and dance floor favorites to weddings, graduations, private parties, and backyard gatherings. Their lively sets give guests plenty of reasons to sing along.

FLOWSTATE ENTERTAINMENT

FLOWSTATE ENTERTAINMENT brings

live performance directly to celebrations with fire dancers, stilt walkers, roller skaters, roaming characters, and more. Their performers can add an element of surprise and play to a gathering.

109

TAILSPIN brings rock, pop punk, crowd favorite

covers, and original music to private events. What began with four friends playing in a basement has grown into an energetic live band ready to keep guests singing and dancing.

TAILSPIN

SAVE ROOM FOR SOMETHING SWEET Food creates natural opportunities for people to gather, share, and care for one another. Dessert adds another reason to linger around the table.

PIES N’ MORE brings the charm of a home bakery to

your next gathering. Owner Rhonda Nelson takes pride in creating baked goods that look as good as they taste, using locally grown ingredients whenever possible. Whether you are putting together a dessert table, celebrating a birthday, or simply inviting friends over, her homemade treats make a sweet addition to the occasion.

110 | SEPTEMBER 2026 | MEETFARGO.COM

PIES N’ MORE

CONTINUED>

FARDOUGH makes from scratch yeast

donuts, with everything from classic flavors to more creative creations. Their Butter Pistachio and Tiger Claws are among the unique offerings that can give a dessert table something to talk about.

FAR DOUGH

TREAT THEATER

DUE NORTH

Hosting guests with dietary restrictions can be easier with DUE NORTH , where everything is gluten free, with plenty of dairy free, egg free, and soy free options as well. From brownies and cupcakes to breads, cookies, and cinnamon rolls, there is plenty to put on the table.

111

DEB’S CORNER FOODS AND CATERING

GATHER AROUND THE TABLE Food brings people together, especially when it is served in a way that encourages sharing. A full table creates a natural place for stories, questions, laughter, and the conversations that help people get to know one another.

DEB’S CORNER FOODS AND CATERING

has spent 25 years catering throughout the Red River Valley area, creating food for everyone at the table, including gluten free, vegan, and vegetarian options alongside traditional favorites. Deb and her husband Mike bring a welcoming, homemade approach to gatherings of all sizes.

LITTLE BROTHER

LITTLE BROTHER brings

Korean, Thai, and Vietnamese favorites to the table, blending traditional flavors with modern touches and fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Their menu includes favorites like Biibimbap, Beef Bulgogi, and Korean Crispy Wings, offering plenty of bold flavors to share around the table.

112 | SEPTEMBER 2026 | MEETFARGO.COM

LEELA THAI CUISINE

LEELA THAI CUISINE offers appetizers by the tray and entrees by the pan, with options ranging from mild to true Thai spice and plenty of vegetarian choices. Their family style approach makes it easy for guests to pass dishes around and try a little bit of everything.

For a taste of local history, JUMBO’S brings its famous Sloppy Joe sauce to gatherings. The recipe dates back to the late 1950s, when Patty’s father opened Jumbo’s Drive In in Mandan, and the family has carried those flavors forward ever since.

BRINGING PEOPLE TOGETHER At its heart, hosting is about creating space for people to feel welcome and connected. The details help set the stage, but the most meaningful part of any gathering is the time people spend together. That is the kind of hosting Folkways practices at its events, and it is an approach that can follow you home. The next time you are at the Red River Market or another Folkways event, take a look around. The local people helping create that experience may also be the ones who can help make your next gathering feel a little more special.

113