Lake Minnetonka, MN September 2023

The Style Issue

As summer winds down, we enter September in Style. One of my favorite months of the year! Great weather (usually) and back to busyness with most summer vacations in the rearview mirror.

Today, I want to take a moment to celebrate and explore the fascinating world of style. Style is not limited to the clothes we wear or the way we adorn ourselves; it encompasses every aspect of our lives. From how we decorate our homes to the music we listen to and from the books we read to the way we carry ourselves in conversations, style permeates every facet of our existence.

Style evolves as we celebrate our quirks, our passions, and our desires. Style is a form of self-expression that communicates who we are, how we perceive the world, and what we value. With this issue, we explore a little bit of men’s and women’s couture with a little help from our friends. We spotlight a newer salon in Wayzata that grew from humble beginnings, examine the versatility of the little black dress, and visit an outdoor space crafted for an iconic favorite in Lake Minnetonka. Also, let’s not forget Life Minded observations from Jen. This time she muses about airport style.

We hope this issue inspires you to forge new paths or explore familiar ones. There is so much here in Lake Minnetonka to lift our spirits and ignite your creativity.

I’ve found that the best style is an authentic expression of who you really are. If that is monochromatic, as I often am accused of relying on too much, so be it. At my wife’s urging, I am trying to introduce a bit of color into my wardrobe. I bought a magenta shirt the other day but haven’t worn it yet. We’ll see. However, no matter what, we are all uniquely created for a role in this wonderful life. Go out and discover it in style!

September 2023

PUBLISHER

Dave Robertson | dave.robertson@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Lauren Beaubaire | lauren.beaubaire@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Lynlee Critz | lynlee.critz@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Kendra Beneke, Graham Johnson, Jen Fortner, Sara Hoeman, Lauren Beaubaire, and Angela Broockerd

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Emily John, Janie Jones

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

CONTROLLER Gary Johnson

AD DESIGNER Mary Albers

DAVE ROBERTSON, PUBLISHER @LAKEMINNETONKALIFESTYLE

LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

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DYNAMIC PHOTOWERKS

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Transform Your Home with Ferguson

Whether you’re starting a renovation or building your dream home, Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery can help every step of the way! From traditional to contemporary and every style in between, Ferguson offers a vast selection of plumbing, lighting, and appliances from today’s top manufacturers, beautifully showcased in state-of-the-art showrooms in Golden Valley and Oakdale. Our experts are here to help. Visit  build.com/ferguson to schedule your personalized showroom experience today.

Photography: Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery

Providing

sophisticated wealth management to successful individuals in a simplified, personal manner.

YOU ARE NOT A COOKIE CUTTER FAMILY

WE ARE NOT A COOKIE CUTTER ADVISOR

Tonka Dash, a new business started by local teenager, Jack Reger, delivers takeout orders from local eateries to the Wayzata and Excelsior docks. They deliver from participating restaurants listed on their website. These entrepreneurs work for tips only and will deliver your favorites while you’re boating on Lake Minnetonka. No need to tie up, Tonka Dashers will hand off your takeout from the dock to your boat. Learn more and see which restaurants are participating: www.tonkadash.com

Brunch, Cocktails, and Treats for the Pups at Coalition in Excelsior

Pull up a seat on our patio or inside our beautiful, historic brick building in Excelsior and join us for Social Hour with great food, extensive wine selection, and classic Coalition cocktails. On weekends, don't miss our brunch starting at 10am, choosing between your favorite Coalition dishes. The best part? You don't have to leave your furry family member at home. Coalition offers a full Yappy Hour menu exclusively for the dogs with tasty entrees and desserts your pup will love. coalition restaurant.com/menu

Scan to read more.

Photography: Tonka Dash

Photography: Coalition

SEPTEMBER

local experiences

The best places and things to do in our area.

Everyone loves a closet refresh and stylish scene, so we’ve rounded up some of our picks for the most sophisticated and fashionable destinations that will have you feeling renewed as well as ready for the camera.

Our Picks for The Style Scene

VANN RESTAURANT: Prepare for a unique dining experience. With only 48 seats, Vann offers a constantly evolving menu, typically with 3 starters/small plates, 3 entrees and 2 desserts. 4016 Shoreline Drive Spring Park, MN

FASHION WEEK MN: Spotlighting local fashion designers, makers and retailers, Fashion Week MN celebrates, connects and inspires the local fashion community with fashion shows, presentations, panel events and shopping events.  Twin Cities

STROLL THE PROMENADE OF WAYZATA: With upscale shops, local restaurants, and lake views, the Promenade of Wayzata is the Twin Cities' newest fashion, food and fun district right on the shores of Lake Minnetonka. Lake Street, Wayzata, MN

PARADISE CHARTER CRUISES: Put on your cocktail attire and invite your friends out on Lake Minnetonka for a relaxing sunset cruise while enjoying drink specials, cash bar, and great food. 2 Water Street Excelsior, MN

DINE AT GIANNI'S STEAKHOUSE: A staple in Wayzata for over two decades, enjoy an exceptional dining experience, indulging in aged, center-cut beef, chops, chicken, and fresh seafood from this award-winning restaurant.  635 Lake Street East Wayzata, MN

Want to recommend a local experience?

Scan the QR code and message us on Instagram.

Refined Yet Casual Is In

The stylists at J.Hilburn share the latest trends and how to build a wardrobe you love

ARTICLE BY KENDRA BENEKE

In June 2022, we visited the J.Hilburn team – Travis Hawley, Jodi Mayers, Christine Quandt, and Jennifer Shinners – in their new showroom in Excelsior. A year later, we wanted to catch up and see what’s happening in the world of J.Hilburn and the men’s fashion industry.

After officially opening their Excelsior showroom last June, the J.Hilburn team has continued to grow their clientele and provide sustainable, custom clothing for men. With the ability to outfit their clients in clothing from casual outfits, to professional suiting and formal wear, the J.Hilburn stylists love building relationships with their clients and being included in their significant milestones whether it is a vacation, a new job or a wedding.

“As stylists, not only are we able to give our clients exceptional customer service, but for us, it’s a privilege to be a part of these big life events too,” Christine says.

Over the last year, the stylists have been able to help even more men discover their style and feel their best. They’ve given us insight into current fashion trends and how you can look and feel your best in the clothing you love.

As they say, fashion is always 12 months behind. And as a result, the fashion industry is still seeing trends related to a lasting work-from-home model, which means comfort is key.

“We’re still trending the business-casual model. People continue to wear more casual clothes to work, and J.Hilburn has really been able to pivot beautifully after the pandemic for those things. So our business casual categories are exploding and improving every day,” Christine says.

While business casual continues to be on trend, Jennifer and Christine both agree that what’s evolving in mens’ fashion is more of an elevated business casual look.

Specifically, updated suits and sportcoats in fabrics that provide both structure and comfort are popular right now. They are looking for a refined yet casual look without forfeiting style or comfort.

When “they feel good, they look good, it’s a win-win and our fabrics hold up beautifully; they’re not wrinkling. So our customers can live their lives in these garments and still look good at the end of the day,” Christine says.

Another current popular category from J.Hilburn is their knitwear which offers sophisticated comfort in a variety of styles and fabrics. Ranging from tshirts, polos and sweaters, to pull-on pants, knitwear is abundant and endlessly customizable and J.Hilburn is doing it better than anyone else.

“Knit is all-encompassing. A knit can be easily paired with a sportcoat for an upscale business-casual style, or worn alone with denim for a more relaxed look.

We are one of the only companies that are doing custom knits. It is one of our hottest sellers and very few other retailers are offering anything comparable,” Jennifer says.

As soft and comfortable clothes continue to trend, the stylists at J.Hilburn want you to know that comfort doesn’t need to mean loose or baggy. They recall many clients initially thinking their custom clothes were too tight but quickly realized that a cleaner fit means a more refined look.  And when the compliments started pouring in, they were convinced.

“We get texts from our guys saying, ‘OK, I’m getting unsolicited compliments about my sportcoat on the airplane from the people sitting next to me,’” Jennifer says. “It’s a big win for us as stylists when our clients not only love the garments, but they feel great in them. And they want to share that experience with us.”

The stylists love seeing the growth and evolution that clients experience once they discover clothing that fits properly. Additionally, in working with their own stylist, clients develop their own style preferences based on their needs and way of life. Christine and Jennifer both attest to the changes they see when they’ve helped a man discover his style.

“They most certainly grow in confidence and understanding of how things should fit them. They come to realize that a beautifully fitting garment truly makes them look good and feel good,” Christine shares.

“We’re just trying to build clothing for them where you can’t go wrong. Our goal is to put garments together in colors and styles that pair back to one another; similar to a

capsule wardrobe. This allows for options for more than one look. Not only does that make it easier for our clients to decide what to wear each day, but by getting multiple outfit options for each piece, they are getting more use out of each item,” Jennifer says.

Another benefit to shopping with J.Hilburn is the company’s commitment to sustainability. By creating garments for each individual customer at the time that they need them, as opposed to producing many garments made in bulk, the company prevents tons of wasted garments ending up in landfills. “We reject fast fashion and endeavor to reduce throwaway culture by thoughtfully designing and producing high-quality custom-made clothing that fits your lifestyle. Our products are more than made-to-fit — they’re made to last.” ( jhilburn.com)

Clothing trends evolve with the seasons, with popular tv shows, and, as we’re seeing now, global events. If you want to discover your style, have questions about current trends, or are ready to have clothing with your name on it, pay a visit to J.Hilburn in Excelsior. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by the price and thrilled when the compliments you never received before start rolling in.

Christine and Jennifer also add that they are always looking to help new customers, but J.Hilburn is growing so fast they are looking for more stylists to work with them. It is a great opportunity to start your own business by becoming a personal stylist with J.Hilburn and working with a great community of stylists. They encourage anyone who may want to learn more about becoming a customer or a stylist to stop into the showroom to learn more.

“It’s a big win for us as stylists when our clients not only love the garments, but they feel great in them.”

-Jennifer Shinners

I am the last person who should give style advice. For decades I have read articles about “the ten key pieces every woman should have” only to discover I own three of them and have no energy or interest to track down the remaining seven.

FLIGHT OF FANCY

I am however newly qualified to give style judgment. I have recently spent a fair amount of time in airports. Minneapolis. Denver. Newark. Albany. Detroit. Reykjavik. You cannot beat the people watching at the airport. The state fair is a close second but you don’t get the broad scope of subject matter like you do at the airport. And what I saw

Life Minded

is disturbing. As a world, we have collectively lost our sense of style when it comes to air travel.

I admit I don’t exactly long for the days when people got dressed up to fly. I’m not willing to put on pantyhose for any reason and certainly not to have that hosiery jammed into leather pumps on a transatlantic flight. But society has let go of all reason with airport wardrobe.

Some are dressed like they are getting ready for bed. Others like they just rolled out of it. Many are dressed like they are about to exercise but they can’t fool me because they are carrying a chihuahua in a handbag so they are not about to exercise. There are micro shorts and wide legged pants. There are a lot of hats. Beanies. Baseball caps. Straw hats and cowboy hats. Newsboy caps and many fedoras.

If you have been gifted a quarter zip with a corporate logo or taken the freebie t-shirt at an event, the airport is where you are supposed to wear it. Each concourse providing a mobile billboard for mysterious logos embroidered onto misshapen vests and matching ballistic nylon laptop bags.

Graphic tees. I’m a fan of some graphic tees. I’m not sure why they seem to be a popular pick for the airport. I saw a man wearing one that said, “Person wearing a free t-shirt.” At least that’s amusing. Shirts boasting messages like, “I’m with stupid.” “It’s wine o’clock somewhere.” “Bourbon is a vegetable.” Those really seem like they belong at the state fair. And I did see one gentleman in a Kelly green t-shirt that read-AIRPORT TSHIRT. I like that guy.

Every once in a while, if you are lucky, you see it. An airport style unicorn. A woman in flax colored linen pants and crisp white button down with pressed cuffs rolled up. She has on clean white wedge tennis shoes and her hair is effortlessly held up by a tortoise clip. She only carries a lightweight tote in camel leather and it holds next to nothing. Who is this woman and where is she going and why is she not rumpled?

I admire her but she is not my people. She definitely does not have the backup to the backup to the backup airplane outfit packed in her carry-on like I do. She also probably

ARTICLE BY JEN FORTNER

doesn’t drag boxes of Hot Tamales all over the globe for fear of running out of candy while traveling. So we cannot be best friends but I do hope she is inspiring those around her. We really need it.

People wear athletic shoes and lifestyle sneakers and work boots and a wide variety of the most alarming collection of sandals. It’s harsh but I think we very much need to cover feet at the airport, and therefore on the airplane for the greater good of humanity.

Traveling can be grueling and people want to be comfortable but we have taken it too far. When TSA announces “you will need to remove your belt” I think-save your breath, we aren’t belt people. We are an elastic waistband world.

The airport sometimes does not bring the best out in us humans. There is a lot of impatience and stress and anger and rushing and atrocious fashion. I’m not sure how to solve it but I do think we can do better. Step one. Pack the sandals and put on the running shoes-it’s the airport and your gate will be changed and you will be required to jog.

Minded

Jen Fortner is a freelance writer who enjoys asking friends and strangers far too many questions. She spends her spare time sitting in inclement weather watching youth sports, traveling, cooking, and searching for the very best baked goods. She lives in Shorewood, Minnesota with her husband, three children and the most spoiled dog.

10 LOCATIONS. 24 ARTISTS. ONE GREAT WEEKEND.

Saturday, September 16 | 10 am – 6 pm

Sunday, September 17 | 11 am – 5 pm

Lake Minnetonka Studio Tour is now Studio West, presented by the Friends of Hopkins Center for the Arts.

A West Metro tradition returns, bigger and better than ever! It’s your chance to meet local artists, see stunning work in their home studios and even drive home with original paintings, pottery, jewelry, photographs, textiles and more.

ARTICLE BY LAUREN BEAUBAIRE

Step into the ARTIST’S WORLD: STUDIO WEST Art Tour

Clear some space on your wall and make room on your end tables and countertops because you’ll be bringing home a few new stunning and one-of-a-kind pieces from this year’s Studio West Art Tour that will transform your home and wardrobe.

Organized by Hopkins Center for the Arts and local artists, the Studio West Art Tour showcases the incredible talents of artists from the western suburbs, including Deephaven, Excelsior, Minnetonka, Wayzata, Hopkins, and St. Louis Park.

“This is the first year of the Studio West Art Tour,” says Jim Clark, Visual Arts Manager at Hopkins Center for the Arts and participating artist. “It is a reintroduction of the long-running Lake Minnetonka Studio Tour, expanded geographically to include even more local artists and highlight our vibrant and dynamic art world in the western suburbs. We have 24 artists participating in the tour and 10 host sites that patrons can visit on the tour. The Friends of HCA are excited to present Studio West as it is a brand new way for us to support our arts community.”

Each host site is the studio or workspace of one of the artists. Over the two days of the tour, you can visit each site at your own pace and in your own order, meet the artists, see their work, and purchase and take home the pieces you love right from their studio.

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“It’s a unique opportunity for tour-goers to explore the creative spaces and peek into the world of the artist. See their studio, their space, and how they work,” shares Jim. “I’ll be one of the host sites on the tour as well, and I’m excited to share my work with a new community, inviting both seasoned art collectors and new art lovers.”

Also sharing the space at Jim’s host site will be painter J Pony Allen and photographer Nicole Houff whose long-standing muse is Barbie. “It’s a unique synchronicity with the new Barbie movie, as Nicole has been working with Barbie for decades, creating custom diorama sets for Barbie, Ken, and their friends. It will be fun for patrons to see her work,” says Jim.

Tour-goers will enjoy a wide range of mediums and subjects, from sculpture, ceramics, and painting to mixed media, photography, and wearable art.

Mixed media artist Patty Carmody Smith who participated in the original Lake Minnetonka Studio Tour, will also be a host site on this year’s tour.

Patty shares, “I’m excited to have people back in my studio again and hopefully see some fresh faces and new interest from young collectors around the community. There’s a little bit of magic when people come down into my studio space. The conversations are more intimate than you could have at an art fair, and tour-goers will have a wider selection of my pieces than if they were displayed in a gallery. Coming into the artist’s home, you’ll be able to see their past work and their own art collection from other artists and see how artists decorate their own home!”

While stepping into the world of an artist is a rare treat for both established collectors and those new to the art world, it’s also such a treat for the artists. “Tour-goers need to know how much their visits and purchases are appreciated. These kinds of events do a lot to support our vibrant art community,” says Patty. “We’re thrilled to welcome everyone to our studios. And even if you’re not looking to purchase, I love the wonderful conversations and seeing people enjoy themselves.”

“We will have a downloadable map on our website with all the locations and some images of each artist’s work,” says Jim. “We’ll also have a printed map available at the Hopkins Center for the Arts and a representative there to answer questions. If you stop in, it’s a great opportunity to see our gallery and enjoy the art on display at the Center.”

Jim continues, “You don’t need to sign up, just pick up or download the map and start the tour! There are wonderful restaurants and breweries throughout the area for tour-goers to take a break between visiting artists.”

The two-day Studio West Art Tour begins on September 16 from 10am to 6pm and continues through the following day, September 17, from 11am to 5pm. See all participating artists and more information here: www.hopkinsartscenter.com/300/ Studio-West-Art-Tour

Where Custard, Craftsmanship, and Community Come Together

ARTICLE BY GRAHAM JOHNSON

HOW LAKESIDE DECKING OWNER

JOSH FERRI TRANSFORMS AN EXCELSIOR STAPLE: ADELE’S FROZEN CUSTARD

It’s hard to overestimate the importance of decks in Minnesota. Decks are gathering places to talk and come together and great excuses to take a moment, sit, and watch the world go by. And that is exactly what Jenny Zechmeister, the owner of Adele’s Frozen Custard, was looking for when deciding to build a new deck.

Adele’s Frozen Custard opened in 1986 from a modified farmhouse in Excelsior. The titular Adele created her own recipe for frozen custard that is still used to this day. “We still use her exact same recipes, all-natural ingredients and get our mix straight from a dairy in Wisconsin. We flavor it and add mix-ins to it ourselves, making it fresh every single day,” says Jenny. In modifying that original farmhouse, Jenny added a deck that, in the ensuing decades, required a lot of work. “We had been basically re-sanding and re-painting it, and by the end of it, we were basically rebuilding it every single year because it was just an old rotting porch,” says Jenny.

It was actually a long-time customer, Josh Ferri, the owner of Lakeside Decking, who approached Jenny about building a new deck. She quickly agreed. Josh’s take on deckbuilding in Minnesota is a harsh one. “With Minnesota weather, if you don’t build it right the first time, you’ll be building it again.” With a background in cabinetry and custom furniture, Josh brings a precision to deckbuilding that allows them to stand the tests of humidity, snow, and heat that we know all too well in the Land of 10,000 Lakes. In fact, much of the work done by Lakeside Decking is rebuilding dilapidated decks to bring them up to code and ensure they are safe and usable. For

Adele's Deck Before

Adele's Deck Before

Josh Ferri

Josh, building a deck right the first time is simply a matter of economics. “The cost of building improperly is way higher than building properly the first time,” explains Josh. “The long-term spending you will have when maintenance becomes a factor is way higher.”

Building the deck at Adele’s Frozen Custard was a project that required some special consideration. Not only did the space have to be cool to the touch in summer, easy to clean, and up to commercial code, but “super durable and long-lasting that could withstand the onslaught of kids and ice cream,” says Josh. To do that, Josh used an increasingly popular composite decking material called PVC by TimberTech decking which is both more durable than wood and also cooler to the touch in the heat.

The deck at Adele’s Frozen Custard is also the only way to get into the building. That meant that not only were Josh and Jenny designing a space for customers to relax and enjoy themselves but also to provide an inviting entryway and exit. “The whole goal basically was to make sure that the first thing people see when they come into Adele’s was a beautiful space where they could hang out and enter into the building,” says Josh. He did that by building built-in benches through the space, widening the deck’s staircase, expanding the ADA-accessible ramp, and adding lights to the planter boxes and railings.

For Jenny, keeping the farmhouse feel while still modernizing the space was a key line to walk for the project. And that’s exactly what happened. “What Josh has done is he’s built this amazing new deck that has a lot of benches for folks to sit right up on the deck. It has beautiful lighting at night, creating a really nice atmosphere. It’s integrated for a lot of our gardening and flowers too. He did a great job of making it feel updated but still warm and welcoming,” says Jenny.

Adele’s Frozen Custard has always been a community-focused business. It’s played host to first dates and groom’s dinners, post-soccer game hangouts, and post-wedding gatherings. The deck is an essential aspect

of that community feel. Therefore, in undertaking this project, Jenny and Josh created more than just a physical space but a social one. A place where people can laugh, get introduced, and spill frozen custard for years to come. www.lakesidedecking.com

“The whole goal was to make sure the first thing people see when they come into Adele’s was a beautiful space where they could hang out and enter into the building.”

Adele's Deck After

Adele's New Deck at Night

Adele's Deck After

www.GYPSETMIDWESTYOGA.com

for new students with this postcard.

+++ FREE CLASS for new students

We offer yoga classes to meet students at all levels: vinyasa, yin, beginner, hot, nidra, restorative, and alignment based yoga, as well as, fitness classes including pilates and strength training.

We offer yoga classes to meet students at all levels: vinyasa, yin, beginner, hot, nidra, restorative, and alignment based yoga as well as fitness classes including barre, pilates and strength training.

GYPSET Midwest Yoga

15400 Minnetonka Industrial Road Minnetonka, MN

A BOUTIQUE FOR WOMEN, BY WOMEN

AMORE & FEDE, LOCATED IN DOWNTOWN EXCELSIOR, HAS BEEN PROVIDING FUN AND NEW FASHIONS TO THE AREA SINCE 2007

ARTICLE BY SARA HOEMAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMILY JOHN

Amore & Fede is more than just a clothing boutique. Owner Debbie Slusar has a mission and purpose behind the shop she opened in October 2007. “We started in 2007 as a dba (doing business as) of WWP Productions, which meant women with purpose,” says Debbie. “There were three of us when we started out, and our mission was to start a faith-based line of clothing as one of the existing partners had experience on the shopping networks.” Once the brick-and-mortar space was identified and secured, it was a sprint to get the shop open. “In less than 6 weeks, we had the space ready, thanks to my husband Daran and a friend who worked diligently to get the store ready,” says Debbie. “Then it was a mad rush to find a pos system, hangers, bags, apparel, and accessories!”

EVOLVING STYLE

Since it first opened, Amore & Fede has gone through its own style revolutions.

“When Amore & Fede first opened, we were basically a bling store,” says Debbie.

“We had Miss Me jeans with bling on the pockets, tops, and handbags with bling crosses. Everything was bling!” In 2011, Debbie bought out her partner’s share of the store and embarked on a refresh. “I wanted a more classic look in our store,” explains Debbie. “Clean pieces and patterns that were very fashionable and fun. I wanted my styles to stand out, so I looked for brands that were a bit edgy but classic and fun.”

Debbie and her daughter Brittany will seek out pieces for the boutique during their buying trips that appeal to both of them. Brittany also works full-time at the boutique in sales and marketing. This helps ensure that Amore & Fede is a boutique for women across generations and that there is something for everyone. “We have some great brands that we love, and when at market, we view the styles, make notes and then finalize the ones we like the best or imagine what our customers will love,” shares Debbie. “Make sure to follow us on our social media platforms. Brittany keeps Amore & Fede’s social media up to date with all the latest styles.”

FAITH-BASED MISSION

Debbie wants to not only sell fabulous clothing and accessories—the boutique needed to have a strong purpose and mission. “My number one mission is to always give glory to God for what I do,” says Debbie. “We do this through supporting charities such as World Vision and Union Gospel Mission as part of our way to give back to those in need. We also support many of the local charity events in the community by donating gift cards to their silent auctions.” Paying it forward and embodying a sense of gratitude is important to Debbie. “God has blessed us with many great people who have passed through our doors and continue to come back to support us, and we are very grateful and thankful for every one of them.”

COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS

Over the past 17 years that the boutique has been a part of the Excelsior community, Debbie, Daran, and Brittany have established a positive rapport with the customers that come through their doors. “What we love most about Amore & Fede is the joy of spending time with all our customers and helping them find great outfits, a gift for a friend or family member,” says Debbie. “We love meeting new people, local and from out of town, and we love being a part of the community of Excelsior.”

Amore & Fede offers an array of styles. Daughters, mothers, and grandmothers are all sure to find something new to love at the boutique. “We have many great styles from

our top vendors such as Liverpool, Tommy Bahama, and Z Supply, and many more for both the moms and daughters who can shop and enjoy their shopping experience together. We want our customers to feel at home and can relax and have fun when in our boutique,” says Debbie. And finally, creating a supportive atmosphere in the boutique is so essential. “We hear the customers say they feel at home in our store. A place where they can laugh, sometimes cry as they share stories and where prayers can be asked for and be given,” says Debbie.

For more information about Amore & Fede, follow them on facebook at facebook. com/amorefede , on Instagram @amorefed eboutique, or visit their store in downtown Excelsior at 226 Water Street.

SPOTLIGHT: MODA SALON

ARTICLE BY LAUREN BEAUBAIRE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMILY JOHN

FROM HUMBLE BEGINNINGS, HOW ASH CHAPMAN REDEFINES THE LUXURY HAIR SALON EXPERIENCE

Around eight years ago, Ash Chapman risked it all, purchasing a small, run-down salon in Vadnais Heights. “I was 24 years old, just had a baby, and only had $6,000 to my name,” shares Ash. “I was completely broke and just bought a really crappy salon. Everything in there was broken. My dad helped me fix every dryer and chair, and slowly it came together.”

It was the start of an incredible journey as Ash recently celebrated the expansion of Moda Salon in Wayzata, a luxury experience salon specializing in custom hair. “From starting with nothing, I was able to create an amazing place for my stylists and guests to feel cared for and to leave with a new confidence, feeling really good about their hair,” says Ash.

And while the Vadnais Heights salon is long gone, it’s where Ash created her unique model that sets Moda apart.

Ash reflects, “I’ve watched a lot of stylists struggle, fumbling in the wind to build their business. For me, it was so much more than doing pretty hair. I wanted to create a luxury experience for both my stylists and clients, and had to figure out my own process and business model. That’s when I began to mentor and teach my stylists.”

Ash Chapman

Ash created a training program for all her stylists. “We take the time and individualize our teaching to meet our stylists where they’re at in their journey, training in all aspects so our stylists can be well-rounded and successful and provide our clients with an experience like no other.”

When you walk into Moda’s beautiful expanded space in Wayzata, your stylist will spend the time to listen to you, discussing what you’re struggling with and your concerns so you can walk away with a custom style, cut, and color that you love.

“So many times in salons, you just sit in a chair, and no one explains what they’re doing or offers new ideas or options. The beautiful thing about our team at Moda is that they’re all so incredibly creative,” says Ash. “Even when you see the same stylist, you’ll never be stuck in a rut. Because we’re continuously educating, we’re always on the cutting edge and can offer our clients new ideas and techniques. And then, most importantly, we teach our clients how to maintain and style their look. Without that piece, we haven’t done our job fully. It makes such a huge difference.”

The other piece is the open and welcoming environment Ash has created at Moda, revealing how deeply she cares about her stylists and her clients. “No matter what you’re wearing, what you’re rocking, we want you to be able to come in and feel comfortable enough to be vulnerable and say, ‘Hey, I’m really struggling with this, or I don’t love my hair’ and then have someone genuinely care and show up for you. Hair is so personal and can truly affect someone’s confidence and how they move through life.”

Looking back on where she started, Ash laughs, “I was literally the most naive person. I just got my booty handed to me over and over. But I kept getting up and kept going, learning valuable lessons. You don’t have to start with a lot to get started.”

Moda now has two locations, one in St. Paul and one in Wayzata. “I love providing a luxurious and customized experience for our clients, offering a space where everyone feels welcome and cared for and where we always put out amazing hair.” www.modamademn.com

We are thankful to our Direct Support Professionals for all you do for the people we support. It’s because of you that they can live life to its fullest.

YOU are the heart of our mission!

To learn more about Hammer & NER visit Hammer.org

New in Lake Minnetonka

Visit these new businesses making their debut in Lake Minnetonka!

ARTICLE BY LAUREN BEAUBAIRE

Bach to Rock

Bach to Rock is opening their doors on September 9, welcoming students at their new location in Minnetonka for a music education like no other. “We’re so excited to open our third location,” shares Bach to Rock owner Judy Shoulak. “Our new school will have the latest and greatest equipment for our students. With over a dozen rooms filled with equipment, a band and stage room, and a recording studio, people will be blown away when they walk through our doors.”

With the mission to impact lives through music, Bach to Rock teaches students of all levels and ages, from toddlers to 80-year-olds, and, most importantly, meets them where they are in their music journey. “We want our students to feel like the sky’s the limit, to feel that they’re special, cared for, and play the genre of music that they love, whether it’s country, classical, or

rock,” explains Judy. “We’ve brought on some incredible teachers at our Minnetonka location who are not only great musicians but great teammates and role models for our students.”

Bach to Rock offers everything from private and semi-private lessons to Glee Camp and Rock Band, with opportunities for students to perform throughout the community and in school events like Battle of the Bands and Bachapalooza. “We always encourage our students to perform right away and get into the recording studio. They start to build that confidence. And if they can get up on stage or in a recording studio and perform, they can do anything,” says Judy.

Enrollment is currently open at Bach to Rock. Go to www.bachtorock.com/minnetonka to enroll and learn more.

Students at Bach to Rock

Honey P’s Boutique

For the past few years, you could only find Honey P’s one-ofa-kind kid’s clothing online. But luckily for kids and parents, owner Katie Peterson recently moved into the second-floor space above Lick’s Unlimited ice cream shop in Excelsior.

Honey P’s, named after the affectionate name Katie’s nieces and nephews call her, Aunt Honey, and P for her last name, is a boutique offering a curated and unique selection of girls and boys sizes 2 to 16 with high-quality pieces you won’t find anywhere else. As a former elementary teacher, Katie married her passion for fashion and making an impact with youth, opening the boutique with the mission to create confidence through clothing.

“I’m so excited to be able to interact with the kids, see their excitement and how they light up when they find a shirt or dress they love,” says Katie. “I wanted to create a space that allows kids to find out who they are, be who they are, and have fun doing it. It’s not how they look, but how they feel.”

Kids take the lead when they come into the store. “I introduce myself to the kids first,” explains Katie. “I want to make them feel important and heard and appreciated. I want the shopping experience to be enjoyable for them. And when they pick out the clothes themselves, hopefully, it eliminates the wardrobe battle! They’ll have clothes they want to wear.”

Katie has three girls of her own, an 11-, 7-, and 3-year-old. “By opening Honey P’s, I also wanted to set an example and be a role model for my girls. To pursue your dreams, whatever they are, and to just go after it,” says Katie.

So as you start your back-to-school shopping, Honey P’s can be your one-stop shop to find your kids’ new fashionable favorites. Plus, if they spill any ice cream on themselves at Lick’s, they can head right upstairs for a clean ensemble! honeypsboutique.com

Katie Peterson

THE little BLACK DRESS

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES STYLIST: AMANI SKALACKI

Most of us can say we have that one staple black dress that can be worn at any occasion, and the classic look is not only popular but is elegant and timeless. It is the dress in our closet that can be accessorized to fit the event and often is the dress we go back to time and again. It is one of the most versatile items we own, never goes out of style and looks good on anyone. But how did this classic look originate?

Prior to the 1920’s, black was reserved for funeral wear, but when Coco Channel made the bold move to print a short, black dress on the cover of Vogue in 1926, all of that changed. The popularity of the black dress skyrocketed, and it became one of the most influential pieces of clothing. Chanel transported fashion from tight corsets and bustles to straightlined silhouettes. Because of its affordability, black remained a popular choice during The Great Depression. The black dress had another boom in popularity when “Breakfast at Tiffany’s’’ debuted, and Audrey Hepburn showcased her iconic black dress with long, black gloves. Today, people accessorize the black dress to fit any occasion.

We enlisted the help of stylist, Amani Skalacki, to show us how versatile the little black dress can be.

THE POPULARITY OF THE BLACK DRESS SKYROCKETED and IT BECAME ONE

OF THE MOST influential PIECES OF CLOTHING.

COCO CHANNEL MADE THE BOLD MOVE TO PRINT A SHORT, BLACK DRESS ON THE COVER OF VOGUE IN 1926

“We usually think of the little black dress as a piece you wear to an event. However, because black is so flattering on all body types and skin tones, women have multiple black dresses from casual to evening,” Amani says. “I selected this collection of dresses to show the versatility of the black dress and to give women some new ideas of how to wear the evening gown with a train on a night out with her girlfriends or the traditional summer strappy maxi dress while running errands in cooler temperatures.”

Although black is a timeless, classic look, that doesn’t mean it goes without personality. You can make it your own style by accessorizing to infuse new life into a dress that you already own.

“A sequin dress can be dressed up with heels, or that same dress can be transformed into a casual outfit with the addition of tennis shoes and an oversized blazer or a denim jacket. Transform that strappy dress you have been wearing all summer into an outfit that is perfect for chilly fall temperatures. Add a narrow scarf, a leather jacket and sandals or a tall pointy boot, and you have a whole new look for an evening out,” Amani adds.

If you have a dress in the back of your closet that you haven’t worn in years, don’t be afraid to dust it off and give it new life. “Take that evening gown you wore years ago to a tailor for a little transformation. Turn it into a high low dress-top that can be worn out with girlfriends or on a date night. Pair the top with leather leggings, ankle boots, a chunky belt and some statement jewelry, and now you have a piece that pushes the boundaries of the little black dress.”

Are you looking for the best cut or style of dress that works best for your body type? Amani provided this simple guide:

HOURGLASS FIGURE:

• V-necklines

• Cinched-in waistlines

• Tailored/fitted dresses

PEAR OR TRIANGLE

FIGURE:

• Tailored dresses

• Off the shoulder

ATHLETIC FIGURE:

• Embellished

• Ruffles

• Empire waist

• Volume is your friend

APPLE FIGURE:

• Drop waist

• A-line

The dress that all body types can’t go wrong with is a wrap dress of any length.

Nothing But Hemp offers exclusive, premium, vegan, organic products that are sure to be the perfect addition to the fall season you have been searching for!

events

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

SEPTEMBER 8TH

Movies in the Park

MINNETONKA CIVIC CENTER

8:00 PM

Enjoy the last bit of warmer weather and bring the family to enjoy free Movies in the Park at the Minnetonka Civic Center. The first fall showing is Puss in Boots: The Last Wish on September 8. The next movie will be Minions: Rise of Gru on September 15. The movies start 15 minutes after sunset. Remember to bring your blankets and chairs!

SEPTEMBER 8TH-10TH

James J. Hill Days

LAKE STREET WAYZATA | 5:00 PM

Wayzata’s James J. Hill Days is here! Lake Minnetonka’s largest festival kicks off Friday, September 8 with the Rails & Ales Craft Beer Festival, Lake Minnetonka Carnival, street market, log rolling, food vendors, live music and more. Weekend events continue Saturday with Dachshund Races and Doggy Olympics, Llama Llovin’ Experience, and fireworks, while on Sunday you won’t want to miss the T-6 Thunder Airshow and parade. See the full schedule:  jamesjhill days.wayzatachamber.com

SEPTEMBER 15TH-17TH

Excelsior Apple Days

DOWNTOWN EXCELSIOR ON WATER STREET | 5:00 PM

One of our local favorite lakeside festivals, Excelsior Apple Days celebrates community, art, locally produced food, and a good old-fashioned street dance. Enjoy a weekend full of events with craft booths, the Happy Apple Kids Corner, food vendors, history tour, Apple Pie contests, live entertainment

BUYERS LOVE MY SELLERS’ HOMES

EVENTS CONTINUED

- from local groups to well-known bands, and the popular beer and wine garden located in the middle of it all!  excelsiorlakeminnetonka chamber.com/apple-day-23/

SEPTEMBER 23RD

AppleFest at the Arb

MINNESOTA LANDSCAPE

ARBORETUM | 10:00 AM

Head to the Arboretum for their inaugural AppleFest, celebrating the apple industry and the University of Minnesota’s rich history of apple research. There will be apple bingo and trivia with local Arboretum celebrities, orchard tours, apple tasting, lawn games, apple-themed baking contest, music by Traveled Ground, and apple-themed concessions, including beverages, food trucks and vendors. See more details here:  arb.umn.edu/ events/applefest

SEPTEMBER 24TH

Fall de Tonka

MINNETONKA COMMUNITY

EDUCATION CENTER | 9:30 AM

Take in the beautiful fall foliage on a bike tour of the Lake Minnetonka community. Fall de Tonka is a 28-mile ride through Excelsior, Shorewood, Greenwood, Minnetonka, Deephaven, Eden Prairie, and Chanhassen. Be in the Minnetonka Community Education bike corral at 9:30am for a 10am start. There will be live music all day at Minnetonka Community Education Center and DJ entertainment at the rest stop. Learn more:  minnetonka schools.org/district/mcec/events/ fall-de-tonka

SEPTEMBER 27TH

Artimer Market

BACK CHANNEL BREWING

5:00 PM

Chris@ChrisDennisGroup.com

Don't miss the last Artimer Market of the season at Back Channel Brewing. Enjoy a craft beer and shop over 20 different local vendors. You’ll find an array of food, art, jewelry, crafts, and clothes by local artists and vendors. They'll also have live outdoor music from Matt & Laurel to listen to as you sip and shop. More details:  https://www.back channelbrewing.com/events

BRING YOUR VISION TO US

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