Eagan, MN September 2025

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EVENT PLANNING + SERVICES RUSTIC MEETS REFINED

SHOPPING

HOME + DESIGN ELEVATED LIVING

LOCAL SERVICES STYLE, YOUR WAY

SMILE WITH STYLE

The Style Issue

“Style isn’t what you wear, it’s how you live.”

— Unknown

Style comes in many forms. It’s not just about what we wear—it’s how we live, how we carry ourselves, and how we express what makes us uniquely  us. This month, in our  Style Issue, we’re celebrating the many ways style shows up across our community—from fashion and beauty to confidence and creativity.

At the heart of this issue is a belief that style is deeply personal, yet beautifully universal. Whether it's found in a curated wardrobe, a sparkling smile, or a picturesque setting, great style has the power to elevate the everyday and leave a lasting impression.

We’re excited to take you inside Genesis Ranch, a stunning local venue that blends rustic charm with timeless elegance. It’s a picture-perfect backdrop for life’s most stylish celebrations and a true gem in our community.

For those looking to refresh their closets, we’re spotlighting two local favorites: Fashion Fruit Boutique and Style Encore. Each offers a different approach to fashion—one through fresh, on-trend finds and the other through sustainable, savvy shopping—but both help women feel confident and express their individuality.

And speaking of confidence, nothing enhances personal style quite like a bright, healthy smile. That’s why we’re also featuring Glasgow Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, where dental care meets artistry. Their approach is not only about oral health but also about helping people feel good in their own skin.

Realtor Lisa Brainer shares simple tips for elevating your home’s style. From layering textures to thoughtful lighting and displaying personal treasures, small details can make a big impact—creating warmth, character, and a space that feels uniquely yours.

This issue is a celebration of the people and places that inspire us to live beautifully, boldly, and with intention. We hope it encourages you to explore your own sense of style—whatever that may look like.

As always, I would like to thank all of Eagan City Lifestyle’s sponsors. Their generous support enables us to get our magazine directly into our readers’ homes. Please don’t hesitate to contact me (eagan@citylifestyle.com) if you have a story to share or a business to recommend.

September 2025

PUBLISHER

Amy Sousa | Amy.Sousa@citylifestyle.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Matt Sousa | matthew.sousa@citylifestyle.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Jacqueline Elizabeth jacki@ascendanceproductions.com

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Lisa Cline | cline.lisa.marie@gmail.com

STAFF WRITER

Ann Schreiber | copywritingforyoucorp@gmail.com

COPY EDITOR

Judy Sousa | eagan@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Traci Hoskin (@tracipalmerphotography), Monica Lopez (@molophotography)

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

COO Matthew Perry

CRO Jamie Pentz

VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson

VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders

AD DESIGNER Zach Miller

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas Learn

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

Eagan Summer Community Theatre was thrilled to bring 9 to 5: The Musical to life on stage this summer! Here are just a few highlights from the high-energy performances, colorful characters, and show-stopping musical numbers that lit up the theatre. Thank you to everyone who joined us for this unforgettable production! Photography by Monica Lopez (@molophotography)

Caylee Christian Joins Discover Strength Apple Valley Team

Discover Strength in Apple Valley is excited to welcome Caylee Christian as its newest Exercise Physiologist. With a background in nutrition, personal training, and health coaching, Caylee brings a holistic approach to fitness. Passionate about empowering others to feel confident, resilient, and strong in their bodies, she’s ready to help clients reach sustainable wellness goals—mind, body, and spirit.

Radiant Results, Personal Touch: Meet Idlewild Spa's Melissa Gerber

Melissa Gerber has been a part of the Idlewild Spa family since day one. Melissa passionately offers resultsdriven skincare treatments that are as unique as each guest. With a genuine love for what she does, Melissa combines years of experience with a commitment to continued education, always learning the latest techniques to better serve her clients. Outside of the spa, Melissa treasures time with family and friends, discovering new restaurants, and traveling to new places that inspire her.

Refined

At Genesis Ranch, timeless design meets wide-open space to create an upscale private venue for boutique weddings, brand activations, and high-end retreats.

Ranch Retreat

Tucked into 26 private acres just outside Rosemount, Genesis Ranch isn’t your typical Midwest venue, and that’s the point. With whitewashed buildings, Coloradoinspired ceremony settings, and a design aesthetic that combines modern elegance with rustic charm, this destination is redefining what “barn weddings” look like in Minnesota.

Melissa Bezotte and her husband, Joe, originally purchased the property in 2021 with dreams of creating a peaceful retreat. “We wanted it to feel like Colorado,” she says, an homage to where she and her husband first met. But as their vision evolved, so did the land. Her son-in-law began drafting plans for something more. That “something more” would soon become a highly sought-after venue where couples, companies, and creators now gather for meaningful events with unforgettable backdrops.

In just one snowy winter weekend, Genesis Ranch booked 16 weddings, without a finished building in sight. People saw the potential and believed in the dream.

Today, that dream has fully come to life.

MODERN YET RUSTIC

At the heart of Genesis Ranch is its signature white-and-black color palette, carefully chosen to let any event’s vision come to life. “Everything is white and neutral, even the plants,” says Melissa. “That makes every photo look beautiful, no matter what colors the couple or client chooses.” From bridal Pinterest boards to brand activation blueprints, the setting is intentionally designed to work with your vision, not compete with it.

Events at Genesis Ranch are intimate by design. Boutique weddings of up to 200 guests have exclusive use of the space, including the open-air pavilion, cocktail barn, and two ceremony locations. Larger events, like corporate celebrations or fundraisers, can host up to 400 attendees. Whether it’s an elegant retreat, a team-building weekend, or a festive seasonal party, the property is spacious yet cozy, upscale yet grounded.

The wedding experience at Genesis Ranch is especially personal. A restored 1918 farmhouse, now known as the Bridal Home, serves as a private prep space that makes the venue different from other barn or farm-style locations. It offers a separate bridal suite, a wraparound porch, and even a speakeasy-style “Bunk House” in the lower level for the groom and groomsmen. It’s all part of what Melissa calls “the private ranch experience.”

CONTINUED >

“WE

WANTED GENESIS RANCH TO FEEL LIKE AN EXPERIENCE. SOMETHING OPEN AND BEAUTIFUL, BUT ELEVATED. A PLACE WHERE YOU CAN CREATE SOMETHING UNFORGETTABLE, WITHOUT DISTRACTION.”

“We host just one event at a time,” she says. “When you’re here, it’s your place. You’re not sharing space with other parties or working around a tight timeline.” The result is a sense of calm, comfort, and quiet luxury. Whether you stay for a day or rent the farmhouse for the week, the feeling is the same: welcome home.

The cocktail barn is another guest favorite. Once a weathered horse barn with mud floors, the space now features white brick walls, its original lighting, and a polished cement floor. It’s rustic, yes, but far from rough. The design intentionally preserves its history while offering an extra touchpoint for cocktails, conversation, or a quieter moment away from the crowd.

And then there’s the meadow.

STUNNING CEREMONY SITES

Set on five acres and a short walk from the main venue, the ceremony site feels like a private getaway within an already secluded property. The walk alone becomes part of the experience, something borrowed from Colorado’s wedding venues, where the path to “I do” is as memorable as the moment itself.

Though Genesis Ranch is new to the local venue scene, it’s already making an impression with 65 events booked for 2025, and a goal of 80 for 2026. From Rosemount’s Leprechaun Days to partnerships with nonprofits like Backing the Blue Line, the property continues to evolve with purpose.

Melissa’s passion for hospitality, beauty, and belonging is now a part of every decision, from the

neutral florals planted onsite to the flexible rental model. Guests can plan their own event, bring in a planner, or let the Genesis team take care of everything. “Our versatility and white-glove service mean no two events are the same, but the same attention elevates each one's unique details,” says Melissa.

Melissa works hard to make sure each detail reflects the guest’s vision while preserving the elevated visual appeal that Genesis Ranch is known for. The venue has hosted everything from bridal showers and styled shoots to team offsites and brand pop-ups. With curated vendor recommendations and thoughtful add-ons like bison tours or fire pits, every event feels bespoke but rooted in simplicity, and designed to stand out.

Above all, Melissa says, “We wanted to create a space where people could come and breathe.”

Mission accomplished.

Where Cozy Meets Confident Fall Style

ARTICLE BY ANN SCHREIBER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY TRACI HOSKIN
EAGAN’S FASHION FRUIT BOUTIQUE BRINGS SEASONAL PIECES THAT FEEL AS GOOD AS THEY LOOK

By day, Lena Simelgor is a nurse anesthetist. But when she’s not in scrubs, she’s curating the cozy, chic looks Eagan locals have come to love at Fashion Fruit Boutique.

Originally a pop-up concept, the boutique became a fullfledged storefront in 2018. Tucked into Yankee Square Shopping Center, the store offers more than just clothing. It’s a destination for fall wardrobe refreshes, unique gift items, and style that balances comfort with confidence.

“I’ve always loved fashion,” Lena says. “When I travel, I find pieces I wish we had here in Minnesota. I try to bring that European influence to the boutique.”

This fall, Lena’s excited for sweater weather and all the layers that come with it. “Fall is my favorite season to dress for. It’s more fun than the bare bones of summer.” Customers will find richly textured sweaters, clean-line denim, and transitional day-to-night tops and dresses. Chocolate, rust, taupe, and deep blues will dominate the palette.

Known for its quality denim, Fashion Fruit focuses on fit and feel. “Our jeans are selected for their sophistication,” Lena explains. “They’re made for women who want to wear denim to work. Think high quality, clean, and wearable.”

But what sets Fashion Fruit apart is the experience. “You can’t replicate the feeling of the fabrics or the personal attention you get here online,” Lena says. “We help people build looks that feel like them. Comfortable, cozy, and still stylish.” Lena and her team take the time to get to know each customer, offering honest advice and complete outfit suggestions tailored to real life. “Whether you’re heading to brunch, running errands, or going out at night, we’ll help you find something that fits your lifestyle, and makes you feel confident wearing it.”

Whether you’re hunting for an outfit or browsing seasonal gifts, Fashion Fruit Boutique invites you to linger, touch, try, and leave feeling a little more like yourself.

Set

for

the

• Download our planning ahead checklist

• Know what questions to ask on a tour

• Review what to expect during the move

• Learn the best way to meet friends in your new home

AT GLASGOW FAMILY & COSMETIC DENTISTRY, CONFIDENCE ISN’T JUST ABOUT TEETH. IT’S ABOUT CREATING HARMONY FROM SMILE TO SKIN, INSIDE AND OUT.

STYLE STARTS HERE

When you think of style, you might imagine wardrobe refreshes, skincare routines, or hair transformations. But the most powerful accessory you can wear? A confident smile. At Glasgow Family & Cosmetic Dentistry in Eagan, cosmetic dentistry goes far beyond

“WE

cleanings and consultations to full cosmetic treatment plans. That means every patient gets one-on-one care, undivided attention, and a truly customized experience. “We answer the phones. We do the cleanings. We know our patients,” says Dr. Glasgow. “It’s a calm, quiet envi-

TREAT MORE THAN TEETH. WE TREAT THE WHOLE PERSON.”

cleanings and cavities. It’s where medical precision meets artistry to shape, lift, and refine your look.

Led by Dr. Karrie Glasgow and Dr. Hunter Froyum, Glasgow Family & Cosmetic Dentistry offers a full spectrum of cosmetic services designed to support your style from every angle. “I think of each tooth as a piece of art,” says Dr. Glasgow. “Cosmetic dentistry lets us create something beautiful that reflects how a patient wants to feel.”

That feeling of confidence starts with the smile, but doesn’t stop there. “We treat more than just the teeth. We treat the lips, the face, the person,” adds Dr. Froyum. “Our goal is to help patients feel like the best version of themselves.”

NOT LIKE EVERY OTHER DENTAL PRACTICE

And they do it all, personally. Glasgow Family & Cosmetic Dentistry is unique in that it’s staffed by Dr. Glasgow and Dr. Froyum, who handle everything, from

ronment, and for anxious patients, that makes a world of difference.”

In fact, Dr. Glasgow’s background in counseling psychology gives her an edge when it comes to supporting patients with dental anxiety. “Helping people feel at ease is just as important as the treatment itself,” she says.

Cosmetic treatments are a key part of the practice. And, they’re tailored to meet a range of needs. Whether you’re prepping for photos, a big event, or simply want to freshen up your everyday look, the options are expansive. The most requested? Botox.

A VARIETY OF POPULAR TREATMENTS FOR YOUR SMILE

“Botox is our most popular cosmetic treatment,” says Dr. Froyum. “We use it cosmetically for fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes, the forehead, and the neck. But we also use it therapeutically. It can be life-changing for people who clench their jaw or grind their teeth.”

Botox has also become an increasingly popular way to address “gummy” smiles, where a patient’s upper lip reveals too much gum tissue. Just a few targeted injections can reshape the smile and restore balance. For patients who can’t tolerate a nightguard or use a CPAP machine, Botox can be a more comfortable way to ease clenching and reduce TMJ pain.

When it comes to full smile makeovers, Dr. Froyum lights up. “I love doing fullmouth rehabs such as veneers, crowns, and other transformations. There’s nothing like seeing a patient’s whole look shift and watching their excitement build with each visit.”

For patients not quite ready for veneers, cosmetic bonding is a quick way to correct minor chips, gaps, or irregular shapes. “It’s such an immediate change,” says Dr. Glasgow. “That instant gratification goes a long way in helping someone feel better walking out the door.”

The practice also offers clear aligners, in-office and take-home teeth whitening options, and next-day crowns using modern digital technology. That means none of those goopy impressions that we all love to hate. For patients seeking a full visual refresh, medical-grade skincare and dermal fillers are also available. Obagi Medical, SkinMedica, and Tizo are offered in-office and recommended by both doctors, who use the products themselves. Lip and cheek fillers round out the menu for patients looking to add hydration, volume, or lift.

SPECIALIZING IN YOUR FACIAL ANATOMY

What makes Glasgow Family & Cosmetic Dentistry different from other dental practices is its knowledge of facial anatomy. “We’ve spent years studying the head and neck, and that gives us a huge advantage when it comes to things like Botox and fillers,” says Dr. Glasgow. “We know exactly where to inject to create subtle, natural-looking results.”

Their hands-on approach, literally, offers something many patients don’t expect: consistency and trust. “We both have small hands,” Dr. Glasgow jokes. “It makes working in small spaces easier. But more importantly, it means the person you meet during the consult is the same person working on you every step of the way.”

“Confidence begins with your smile.”

YOUR NEW DENTAL HOME

With more than 20 years in operation, Glasgow Family & Cosmetic Dentistry has become a trusted home base for families across generations. From a child’s first visit to great-grandparents receiving care into their 90s and beyond (their oldest patient is 103!), the practice balances style and substance with warmth, artistry, and expert care.

So whether you’re polishing your style with a whiter smile, exploring cosmetic enhancements, or simply looking for dental care with a personal touch, you’ll find it here, in a place where confidence starts at the top of your smile and radiates all the way through.

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VIKINGS PARKWAY

STYLE ENCORE

Eagan

In Eagan, Minnesota, Style Encore isn’t just a resale boutique, it’s a story of resilience, sustainability, and community. At the heart of it is Nadia Dessouki, a single mom whose journey from dentistry to fashion resale is as inspiring as the mission she champions.

“I’m a single mom of two amazing kids (Aidan, 19, and Ava, 14), and they’ve really grown up with me in the store. We truly run it as a family,” Nadia shares. Her path to entrepreneurship began after a serious back injury forced her to leave the dental field. She returned to school, earned a business degree, and helped launch a dental office from the ground up. That success gave her the confidence to pursue something more personal.

Nadia first walked into Style Encore Eagan as a customer, drawn to its clean, welcoming space and instant cash offers. When she learned the Eagan location was closing, she stepped in. “I didn’t want to lose such a valuable resource for our community.”

Her passion for resale evolved from a desire to help. “I’ve always loved solving problems and lifting people up. Fashion became a tool for empowerment—especially for women re-entering the workforce or shopping on a tight budget.”

Her days are a whirlwind of business and motherhood. “It’s nonstop! I start early— organizing tasks, checking inventory, pricing items. Then I shift to customer service, managing the team, or even running social media.” Outside the store, she’s a mom, making dinner, helping with homework, and attending school events. Aidan is heading to welding school, Ava’s starting high school, and both help at the store. “It all blends beautifully.”

Choosing a Style Encore franchise was strategic. “It already had a loyal customer base,” Nadia explains. Being part of Winmark Corporation offered systems, support, and brand recognition. Eagan was the perfect fit. “The community is supportive and diverse, and there’s a strong sense of connection here.”

Opening just before COVID-19 brought unexpected challenges. “Lockdowns, staffing issues, financial pressure—we almost closed more than once,” she recalls. “But I adapted—launched a website, kept staff safe, and never gave up. My motivation was my kids and the community we serve.”

Style Encore Eagan buys “all day, every day—with no appointments and no waiting for your items to sell.” Sellers bring in gently used clothing, shoes, or accessories, and trained staff make a cash offer on the spot. Popular brands include Lululemon, Loft, and Coach, with denim and accessories always in demand.

CONTINUED >

“We have high school students shopping for dances , moms looking for workwear , and women rebuilding their wardrobes .”

The store serves a wide range of customers. “We have high school students shopping for dances, moms looking for workwear, and women rebuilding their wardrobes,” Nadia says. One unforgettable moment was partnering with a program supporting women escaping abuse. “We dressed each woman in a full outfit, top to shoes, and watching their confidence shift instantly was something I’ll never forget. It reminded me why I do this, not just to sell clothes, but to restore confidence.”

And unlike most resale boutiques, Style Encore Eagan features a large men’s section, offering quality, affordable options for men, something Nadia says is “often missing in resale.”

The Style Encore motto “Sustainable Shopping at a Great Value” means helping people save money while helping the planet. “Every item we sell gets a second life, which reduces waste.” Fast fashion contributes significantly to global trash; resale stores like Style Encore help keep good-quality clothing in circulation. Nadia sees customers becoming more environmentally conscious, and shopping with purpose. “Upcycling is all about giving clothing a new story,” she says. Her advice for building a sustainable wardrobe? “Start small. Find one secondhand piece you love. Choose quality over quantity.”

Style Encore Eagan proudly holds “Gold Standard” status, recognizing excellence in sales and service. “It reflects our hard work, strong team, loyal customers, and community support.” Her kids’ involvement has made it a true family effort. The store has been named Best of Eagan four years in a row, a Neighborhood Favorite on Nextdoor, and a Reader’s Choice Award winner. “Each honor motivates me to keep giving my best every single day.” In 2024 alone, Nadia purchased $242,000 in clothing across over 46,000 items, directly giving back into the community.

Looking ahead, she plans to grow partnerships, host more in-store events, and refine the selection all while staying true to the store’s sustainability mission. “I want every person who walks through our doors to feel seen, valued, and inspired.”

Elevated Living: Style Your Space Beautifully

CURATED HOME STYLING TIPS WITH TIMELESS IMPACT.

Layer with Texture

Mix textures like velvet, linen, leather, and rattan to add depth and comfort. Even neutral spaces come alive with tactile variation. Think throw pillows, rugs, woven baskets, and stone or wood accents.

Add Life with Greenery

Lush greenery energizes and softens a room. Use a large fiddle leaf fig or snake plant in corners, or smaller plants in ceramic pots on shelves or windowsills. Faux is fine—just style it right.

Style in Threes

Group items in threes—a classic design principle. Varying height, shape, and texture adds balance. Try a trio like a candle, a vase, and stacked books on a shelf or coffee table.

Showcase Meaningful Pieces

Let your home tell your story. Display heirlooms, travel finds, or handmade pieces in curated ways. This builds emotional connection and adds authenticity—far more stylish than a generic, catalog-inspired look.

Focus on Lighting Layers

Layer ambient, task, and accent lighting to create warmth and dimension. Use lamps, sconces, and dimmers to shift the mood and make your space cozy, functional, and visually inviting at any time.

SEPTEMBER 2025

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

SEPTEMBER 6TH

Eagan Rugby Scrum Bag Bash

841 Wilderness Run Road, Eagan, MN 55123 | 11:00 AM

Join Eagan Rugby for a corn hole tournament to raise money for their boosters. Check-in for teams will start at 10am. Teams will battle it out for bragging rights and cash prizes! There will also be a raffle, a silent auction, and other games on site.

SEPTEMBER 13TH

Strut for Mutts

841 Wilderness Run Rd, Eagan, MN 55123 | 9:00 AM

Join Rescue Minnesota for Strut For Mutts 2025, Rescue Network’s premier fundraising walk uniting animal lovers, adopters, and advocates in support of our life-saving mission. This uplifting community event celebrates the power of second chances while raising vital funds to support our growing rescue efforts. Bring your furry companions, your walking shoes, and your heart for rescue.

SEPTEMBER 24TH

FOX & BEGGAR THEATER presents “TIGRE! TIGRE!” at Caponi Art Park

1215 Diffley Rd, Eagan, MN 55123 7:00 PM

Join us for a genre-blending performance exploring humanity’s relationship with technology through puppetry, clown theater, and live music. Set during the Scientific Revolution, this unticketed outdoor show at Caponi Art Park invites you to bring friends, lawn chairs, or blankets for an unforgettable night under the stars. Dress for the weather and enjoy the spectacle!

SEPTEMBER 25TH

Watches, Whiskey, and Wine at Landmark Jewelers

402 Saint Peter St., Saint Paul, MN 55102 | 4:00 PM

Join us at Landmark Jewelers for our distinguished Watches, Whiskey, & Wine event. Explore and shop a curated selection of over 200 exquisite timepieces, indulge in a refined whiskey tasting, and savor acclaimed local wines. We invite you to showcase your favorite timepiece to our esteemed watchmaker, who will be available to offer expert insights and address all your timepiece inquiries.

SEPTEMBER 26TH

Glow and Throw at MN Axe

Eagan

2055 Cliff Rd, Eagan, MN 55122 | 6:00 PM

Step into the glow at MN Axe Eagan with Black Light Axe Throwing—a neon-lit twist on a classic thrill! Throw axes under UV lights with glowing targets and expert coaching. Wear neon or white to light up the night, and bring your best glow gear! Walk-ins welcome, but reservations are recommended. It’s a first-come, first-served experience you won’t forget!

SEPTEMBER 27TH

Apple Valley Fall Festival Craft & Gift Expo

14452 Hayes Rd, Apple Valley, MN 55124 | 10:00 AM

Join us for a fun-filled day at the Apple Valley Fall Festival Craft & Gift Expo — and best of all, admission is free! Discover a wide variety of unique, high-quality items from talented handmade crafters, artists, upcyclers, bakers, photographers, repurposers, and local small businesses. Whether you’re shopping for gifts or something special for yourself, you’re sure to find it here!

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