Lake Minnetonka, MN May 2023

The Ladies Issue

I don’t know about you, but I love any opportunity to recognize the women in my life who just make life more rich and worthwhile. My wife, mother, sister, daughter, daughter-in-law, mother-in-law, granddaughter, clients, and many female friends and coworkers are some of the most influential women in our lives.

And of course, with Mother’s Day this month, all eyes are on moms… But it’s not just the biological mothers, it’s the mother figures in our lives who have made an indelible impact on us. It’s the family members, teachers, friends, and neighbors doing awesome things in our communities, pouring into our lives - making themselves unforgettable and irreplaceable.

While it’s always important to shop locally and support our area businesses, this month is the perfect time. With so many local woman-owned businesses (many in Lake Minnetonka Lifestyle!), it's time to show your love by supporting the businesses featured in this issue and every month. They are movers and shakers, builders, and makers. Their services, wares, and involvement bless all of us in the Lake Minnetonka community every day.

In this issue, we highlight a few: learn our top picks for your gal pals in our local experiences, explore the Cave Salt Yoga & Spa in Mound, or check out something new at Jett Beauty in Excelsior. Experience culinary excellence at The Waters for Mother’s Day, create an oasis at home, and learn about a doctor that still makes house calls — these are just some of the stories in this, our largest issue yet!

So, enjoy our Ladies-themed issue in Lake Minnetonka Lifestyle. Also, take a moment to text, call, or visit the favorite women in your life. Let them know how much you appreciate them. I will as well, and as always, see you around the Lake.

DAVE ROBERTSON, PUBLISHER

May 2023

PUBLISHER

Dave Robertson | dave.robertson@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Lauren Beaubaire | lauren.beaubaire@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jen Larsen Fortner, Sarah Knieff, Kendra Johnson, Lauren Beaubaire

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Emily John Photography, Anna Ko Photography

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

OPERATIONS

DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

AD DESIGNER Mary Albers

LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

Luck O’ the Lake in Excelsior

Photography by Emily John Photography

Emily John Photography's Authentic Experience

Does the thought of standing in front of a camera make you nervous? Don't worry, I've got you. No matter your age, size, shape, or how uncomfortable you might feel about it, I will help you shine. Each photography session with me is a collaborative, creative project where you will feel comfortable and confident being yourself and have fun! Now booking Headshots, Families, and High School Seniors for summer/fall 2023. Visit www. emilyjohnphotography.com or email hello@emilyjohnphotography.

to read more.

Photography: Emily John Photography

fashion and family. They want you to show up every day, just as you are while being able to dress with more ease and fun! With six kids between them, they know it can be hard to wear something other than yoga pants. SIX, for their six beautiful souls, was created and SIX for their core styles to elevate your wardrobe: Tees, Denim, Tanks, Sneakers, Outer wear and Athleisure. sixmn.com

Photography: SIX MN

Remodel, Build, & Renew Your Home this Spring with Black Dog Homes

The weather’s finally warm, and that means building season is back! Built on a passion for high-end homes, Black Dog Homes is an award-winning custom home builder and family-operated business based in Wayzata with a focus on new construction, whole house renovations, and additions. We connect the most creative minds in the industry to create a home that tells your story. Visit our website or give us a call!  blackdoghomes.com | (763)-308-5098

Photography: Black Dog Homes

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Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/LakeMinnetonka

EAT, DRINK CHUCK AXES

local experiences

The best places and things to do in our area.

Grab your gal pals and plan a relaxing or upscale day, weekend, or GNO (Girls Night Out!) with any one of these local experiences the ladies will love.

Our Picks for The Gal Pals

PARADISE CHARTER CRUISES: Cruise Lake Minnetonka on a beautiful luxury yacht, enjoying great food, drinks, gorgeous sunsets and stunning shoreline estates. The Sunday Brunch Cruise and Margarita Fiesta Cruise are two of our favorites! 2 Water Street Excelsior, MN

WAI NANI SURF & PADDLE: Grab the gals and rent a paddleboard or kayak for a leisurely paddle around beautiful Lake Minnetonka. They also offer paddleboard yoga, meditation, and sculpt classes! 250 Grove Lane East Wayzata, MN

RENT A GORGEOUS AIRBNB ON LAKE MINNETONKA: Rent a stunning Airbnb on Lake Minnetonka for a ladies weekend getaway. Stay right on the water in a Luxury Lakefront or stay at the new Banker's Suite in historic downtown Excelsior. 234 Water Street , Excelsior , MN

LORD FLETCHER'S OLD LAKE LODGE: A neighborhood favorite, experience the lake life, enjoying great food and drinks with the ladies on Lord Fletcher's famous patio just steps away from the shoreline of Lake Minnetonka.  3746 Sunset Dr Spring Park, MN

SCHRAM VINEYARDS WINERY & BREWERY: Gather your partners in "wine" for wine tasting at Schram Vineyards! Whether you choose their Seated Tasting Experience, Walk-Up Tastings, or Vine to Wine Tours, you can't go wrong. 8785 Airport Road Waconia, MN

Scan for more photos and the full list.

Want to recommend a local experience? Scan the QR code and message us on Instagram.

Paradise Charter Cruises

Stop Overthinking

Your Food

Save Time in the Kitchen with Origin Meals

What do you get when you combine locally sourced ingredients, minimal cook time and delicious chef prepared meals? The answer is Origin Meals, a sustainable prepared meal delivery company that serves the metro areas of Minnesota and Wisconsin.

“Our company was founded in 2013 by Tyler Carlson and his desire to have on-hand paleo meals, which at the time was a really big trend in eating,” Will Joyce, customer experience, says. “We really try to focus on saving people time and energy around eating.”

To become a customer of Origin Meals, it’s as easy as 1… 2….3.

1. Start by setting up an account on originmeals.com and creating a meal profile. There you will enter in your dietary restrictions, and choose how many meals you want per week and for how many people.

2. After you create an account, you can pick the individual meals each week from a rotating menu. Origin Meals will create default choices for you, but you can always personalize it to your liking.

3. Meals are delivered fresh, never frozen to your door. Leave a cooler out for your delivery or Origin Meals will provide one at your first drop-off for a fee.

“We aim to reduce the decision fatigue of what you’re going to have for dinner every night,” Will says. “The cooking is done for you, so you can use your time the way you actually want to use it - and hey no dishes!”

Want to give Origin a try? Use discount code LIFESTYLE30 for 30% off your first order. The spring menu includes chicken harvest bowls, steakhouse dinner and more.

Eat Healthy

Each week the meals are made from scratch using the best ingredients, including 100% grass-fed beef, free range turkey, antibiotic-free chicken and wild caught salmon. Origin’s chefs also make all their own sauces, which are free from chemicals and hydrogenated oils. “We put passion into each and every meal,” Will says. “We hold ourselves to a high standard when it comes to making meals that aren’t just delicious but also serve the needs of our bodies.”

ARTICLE BY SARAH KNIEFF

Save on Prep Time

“People don’t realize how much time is spent planning what to cook, going to the store and actually cooking the food,” Will says. “This takes a lot of energy for moms and dads who might just want a break. We can provide that break.” Origin offers a meal option that feeds four to six people, which is perfect for families on the go. As an extra time saver, no one needs to be present for delivery.

Live Sustainably Join the Growing Community

Sustainability is the key to making an impact that will last, according to Origin. “We use recyclable packaging and due to our preorder system, our kitchen produces 50% less waste than a traditional grocery store,” Will says. “Also, our delivery routes are perfectly optimized to reduce greenhouse gasses.”

“We hear each week thousands of families are spending more time together, saving money and eating better as a result of the meals we provide,” Will says.

Here’s what people are saying.

“I’m loving the service and it’s helping me as I am a caregiver for my wife who has medical issues.” - Shane from Minnetonka.

“We are a busy family of four [and] we enjoy Origins for dinner a few times a week as it keeps our life and nutrition balanced.” - Megan from Minnesota.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY LUCY HAWTHORNE

HOW THE CAVE SALT YOGA & SPA IS CREATING COMMUNITY ONE PRACTICE AT A TIME

GROWING YOUR SOUL

Photo by @ellingboephoto

ARTICLE BY JEN LARSEN FORTNER PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMILY JOHN PHOTOGRAPHY

Greta Walch has been an educator for decades. Originally an art teacher, Greta’s passion for yoga and her entrepreneurial spirit eventually led her to open a yoga studio, and from there, the scope of her business has expanded.  Her vision has now come to fruition all under one roof. The Cave Salt Yoga & Spa in Mound is a family affair. Greta and her daughters are the embodiment of female power and perseverance. Opening their current location in 2021, they have faced numerous challenges running a small business, adapting quickly during a pandemic, and facing a significant family health issue. But, they have tackled all of these challenges together and have recently seen their hard work pay off with a resurgence of interest. Greta says, “Consistency had fallen away, and people’s patterns had changed so dramatically during the pandemic… but they are coming back. People are prioritizing their health again.”

"WE ARE BUILDING COMMUNITY ONE PRACTICE AT A TIME, AND IN COMMUNITY, HELPING PEOPLE TO FIND BETTER HEALTH AND THE WISDOM TO CONNECT WITH THE GROWTH OF THEIR SOULS."

Greta credits her family for helping the business survive that challenging time. Her daughter Sophia acts as the business manager and a yoga instructor. Prior to her younger daughter’s illness, she ran the spa. “Without all of us working together,” Greta says, “We just wouldn’t have made it through the quarantine period.”

Greta’s core mission is to “help the soul grow.” The Cave boasts many offerings to accomplish this goal. Offering all styles of yoga (restorative, sculpt, hatha, vinyasa, kids yoga, and many modalities of meditation like sound baths) suitable for all levels, meeting yogis where they’re at on their journey. They offer a full menu of massage therapy services as well as Energy Work. The Cave also hosts special events such as Equinox gatherings, women’s circles around moon cycles, book clubs, sound baths, educational sessions, and coming up a fun “Rave in the Cave” Yoga/Dance party featuring body paint and glow sticks!

One offering that sets The Cave apart is the use of a salt cave. The practice of Halo Therapy originated from salt mines in eastern Europe, where salt miners seemed to live longer than their peers. People started traveling to salt mines to breathe in the air for better health. Greta explains, “We simulate the experience using a halo-generator which grinds up therapeutic grade sea salt into microscopic particles which are diffused into the air.” The salt cave experience supports the immune system, opens up the respiratory system by reducing inflammation, and assists in achieving a deep state of meditation. Participants experience enhanced relaxation in the space, as the salt air increases negative ions and boosts serotonin.

Another unique space at The Cave is a beautifully appointed community space available to rent for $75 an hour. It can be used to host a book club, a small get-together following a private yoga session, a coffee klatch, or any other special occasion that may arise. Light-filled and decorated with a touch of whimsy, it’s a space to hold a gathering, but unlike your private home, you aren’t required to vacuum.

Community is central to what Greta and her daughters have built together. “We are building community one practice at a time, and in community, helping people to find better health and the wisdom to connect with the growth of their souls.”

No better time to start that growth than now. Greta says, “Mound has grown to the point where it can support this kind of business. People are grateful for the community space. They make lots of friends and lots of new connections. They are filled up here, and I’m so honored by that. This community is so important to me…it’s where I raised my daughters.”

The Cave MN is looking forward to a busy summer with rooftop yoga on the schedule, kids yoga camps, and other exciting plans to bring more growth and healing to clients. Find out about weekly classes and a myriad of special experiences on their website or social media.

Or, to book a class or purchase a package of passes that includes access to the salt cave, there is an app for that! The Cave MN app is easy to use and provides all the details about what The Cave is currently offering. Learn even more and start your soul’s journey at: thecavemn.com

New in Lake Minnetonka: Jett Beauty

MINNESOTA’S ORIGINAL EYELASH BAR

ARRIVES IN EXCELSIOR

ARTICLE LAUREN BEAUBAIRE

PHOTOGRAPHY ANNA KOSTOCHKO

Jett Beauty, Minnesota’s original eyelash bar, has arrived in Excelsior. Expanding from its Edina location on 50th and France for over 15 years, Jett Beauty moved into the historic Mill Building on Water Street and is ready to pamper and take excellent care of their clients with their known exceptional and customized services.

“I’ve lived in the area for 10 years,” shares Jett Beauty owner Amy Kelly. “I felt there was a demand for our type of services in downtown Excelsior. Clients have loved coming in for a service and then being able to shop the boutiques afterward or grab lunch with a friend. It has been a perfect fit.”

The new space is gorgeous, with stunning high-vaulted ceilings and beautiful chandeliers. In addition to airbrush makeup, lash lifts, brow shaping, henna, and laminations, clients will experience expanded offerings in a private treatment room, including dermaplaning and red & blue light therapy. Deluxe Glo2Facial exfoliates with oxygen O2 bubbles, lite ultrasound smooths the skin and a relaxing lymphatic massage sculpts the face, delivering an instant reduction in redness and puffiness while infusing active ingredients even deeper into the skin. iS Clinical facial “fire and ice” is a celebrity favorite and “harmony” is safe for pregnant clients or individuals undergoing chemotherapy treatments. A new skincare line, Skin Reality helps adults and adolescents struggling with acne.

Amy Kelly

“Popular services have always been lash extensions, curated facials, and lash lifts,” says Amy. “We have a lot of business professionals come in for permanent makeup. We create a natural look by enhancing their lashline with a subtle eyeliner, soft and even eyebrows, and fuller, even lips with the liptint service to enhance their natural beauty. Of course, clients can also use additional makeup for a bolder or more glam look.”

Clients come to Amy for all reasons. For some, they’re celebrating a big life moment like a wedding or prom. Others come in looking for something to make their dayto-day life easier so they can look great right when they wake up and don’t have to worry about taking the time to do their makeup. Amy also helps many clients who come in for medical reasons. She’s worked with clients who have alopecia, scarring from an accident, as well as clients with poor eyesight, making makeup more of a struggle.

“I love our clients,” says Amy. “It’s wonderful to meet so many people with different backgrounds and to learn about their life experiences. It’s a great gift to positively impact someone’s life, and I have created close relationships with a lot of my clients over the years.”

Amy recalls one particular client who had been attacked by a dog as a young girl, receiving extensive damage to her face and needing multiple surgeries.

“In her brow area, there was hair loss and scar tissue. She felt insecure because makeup would easily wear off, revealing uneven symmetry. Following the service, I received a call from her mom, sharing what a difference it made in her self-confidence and how it was a game-changer for her. That was so rewarding to be able to make that kind of difference for someone.”

Amy emphasizes that no matter why you come to Jett Beauty, you’ll be met with a high level of professionalism and a great experience. Amy trains all her staff personally,

ensuring that each member of her team provides the same high-end, customized care and service for all their clients.

You know you’re in good hands at Jett Beauty. “We partner with Associated Skincare Specialists, a group of Board-Certified Dermatologists. Dr. Jane Lisko and Dr. Holly Hanson provide cosmetic injections monthly at our studio in Excelsior, and Dr. Bailey Lee provides services at our Edina location,” says Amy.

The first step of any service is a consultation. Amy and her team know that first-time clients may be unfamiliar or uneasy with the various services offered, and they will answer any questions and prepare you for your appointment.

“When you come in, you’ll find a highly skilled technician who will take the time to get to know you and understand what you’re looking for,” affirms Amy. “We care about each client and will spend the time with them to understand their hopes, wants, and concerns and then customize the service to meet their individual needs.”

Amy is excited for new clients to indulge in the Jett Beauty experience and take advantage of new store items arriving daily. Jett also carries a large selection of designer jewelry handpicked in sterling silver 14k – 18K gold. They are an exclusive retailer of Acqua dell’Elba, a fragrance line handmade in Italy and shipped directly to the store. Choose from beautiful candles, diffusers, room sprays and personal perfume. Jett also carries iS Clinical professional skincare, Face Reality Acne skincare, the complete Revitalash cosmetic line and Glo Skin Beauty makeup line. Plus, Jett features art for sale by Christina B. Johnson in the studio.

“We’re growing every day and are excited to welcome new clients to our Excelsior store. We want you to feel spoiled and cared for every time you come in,” exclaims Amy. Start your beauty journey and learn more at: jettbeauty.com

“I love our clients. It’s wonderful to meet so many people with different backgrounds and to learn about their life experiences. It’s a great gift to positively impact someone’s life, and I have created close relationships with a lot of my clients over the years.”

ARTICLE BY KENDRA JOHNSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMILY JOHN PHOTOGRAPHY

Five-Star Meals at The Waters

HOW

CHEF FRITZIE

IS MAKING A DIFFERENCE THROUGH EXQUISITE CULINARY CREATIONS

Watching the sunrise with Executive Chef Thomas Fritz (“Fritzie”) at The Waters of Excelsior means presenting a grilled tenderloin layered over tri-colored potatoes on a plate painted with a coffee-wine demi-glace and topped with a sunny-side-up egg, reminiscent of a beautiful sunrise. This dish is a prime example of the types of meals the culinary team prepares for the senior living community’s residents. Their upcoming Mother’s Day brunch is no different. If you ask Lead Active Life Manager Lori Nugent what sets The Waters of Excelsior apart from other senior living communities, she’ll say the hospitality and intentional design of the environment, but even more so is the “wonderful culinary experience” that Chef Fritzie and his team present every day for the residents. Those culinary experiences are exactly why holidays are so meaningful to the residents and their families. For the upcoming Mother’s Day brunch, residents are encouraged to invite family members to come enjoy a meal and socialize. And Chef Fritzie knows just how important a delicious meal around the holidays can be.

“If you can encourage people to visit more often through good food, bringing more joy to someone’s life, and we can be a part of that, I think it makes a significant difference and is a big deal.”

Chef Fritzie

“Every night is important, every meal. The holidays are just another day where you get an opportunity to pull out all the stops. We want to wow them. We want to blow them out of the water.”

“If you can encourage people to visit more often through good food, bringing more joy to someone’s life, and we can be a part of that, I think it makes a significant difference and is a big deal,” says Fritzie.

The Mother’s Day brunch will offer a small buffet of items such as salads, fruits, and desserts, and residents will be able to order special entrées carefully sculpted to “step it up for the ladies,” says Fritzie.

In addition to brunch on Mother’s Day, The Waters’ female residents will have chocolates or sweets delivered to their door and roses handed out during the meal.

“For Mother’s Day — besides the meal — I think it’s a great way to honor all the amazing women we have living here,” says Lori.

And Mother’s Day is just one of the many special events that Lori and Chef Fritzie put on for the residents at The Waters. From a Christmas Gala to a Brews & Tattoos event, Lori and Fritzie enjoy putting in the effort to make an impact in the lives of each resident.

“The holidays — every night is important, every meal — and the holidays are just another day where you get an opportunity to pull out all the stops,” shares Fritzie. “We want to wow them. We want to blow them out of the water.”

When Fritzie says, “every meal,” he really means it. The residents at The Waters of Excelsior receive the types of meals one would expect from a five-star restaurant every single day: prime rib, pork tenderloin, NY strip, shrimp, scallops, salmon, swordfish, and more.

But comfort foods also have a special place on the menu: meatloaf, hotdish, ham, turkey and mashed potatoes are important staples for the residents.

Whether it’s fine dining or comfort food, “The culinary team prepares wonderful meals that are not only delicious but also beautifully displayed and plated,” says Lori.

For the culinary staff to maintain their edge, the residents are encouraged to voice any concerns they have about the meals or suggest any dishes they’d like during a monthly “Coffee and Conversation” held by Chef Fritzie and his team.

Chef Fritzie and all Waters communities host these discussions every month to ensure the residents have a voice.

While the residents surely feel grateful for The Waters’ staff, Chef Fritzie and Lori also feel grateful to be able to organize activities and special events like their Mother’s Day brunch. Making a difference and being able to do what they love makes The Waters of Excelsior stand out among other senior living communities. Learn more at: www.thewaters.com

Selina

www.selinamartire.com selina@selinamartire.com Bus: 651-776-8328

Spotlight: Nothing Bundt Cakes

OWNER KIM CASSENS IS SPREADING

JOY ONE SWEET TREAT AT A TIME

ARTICLE BY LAUREN BEAUBAIRE

A sweet expansion is coming to the Twin Cities. Kim Cassens, franchise owner of Nothing Bundt Cakes in Minnetonka, recently purchased the Eden Prairie location and signed to open four more delectable new stores, enabling more dessert lovers to indulge in the delicious cakes that Nothing Bundt Cakes bakes up.

“I’ve always wanted to open more than just one store,” says Kim. “It’s just been really exciting to grow and be a part of helping even more people celebrate all of life’s occasions, bringing happiness and joy, and being part of the community and giving back.”

The North — Northeast area of Minneapolis will be home to Kim’s first new Nothing Bundt Cakes store location, slighted for opening within the next year. Her other locations will serve up bundts to cake connoisseurs in Chaska, Prior Lake, and the St. Louis Park area with plans for all stores to open their doors within the next three to four years.

While bundts are undeniably the star attraction, Kim’s stores also feature a small boutique shop at the front with a great selection of gift items and clothing from local businesses.

“People come in with their mind on cakes and don’t know we also have a great, little boutique in our storefront,” shares Kim. “Our gift items in Minnetonka range from celebration supplies to gifts with themed lake living. We have a local clothing line as well as a beautiful candle line created by two Minnesota women. I love collaborating with amazing local Lake Minnetonka businesswomen and vendors for our boutique. I want to support other women business owners.”

Kim Cassens

The Business Women’s Circle (BWC) and The National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) were pivotal for Kim when she first decided to open Nothing Bundt Cakes.

“Organizations like the BWC are geared to help women business owners. They will pair you up with someone from a different industry, who is either going through the same experiences you are or who can provide guidance and help answer all those questions that you didn’t know who to ask,” explains Kim.

Supporting women business owners is just one way Kim gives back to the community. “We do give away a lot of cake,” laughs Kim. Between food donations and collections, give back days in the store where a percentage of sales goes to a great cause, and her work with breast cancer as the Be Pink Committee Chair and Board Chair for Park Nicollet Foundation, participating in her community and giving back is integral for Kim.

“You can give monetarily, you can give your time, and you can give a product. To be able to help the community that you live and work in is incredibly gratifying. I love the people aspect of it and doing what I can to make even a slight bit of difference for someone,” says Kim.

Starting from one store, opening Nothing Bundt Cakes in Minnetonka nearly eight years ago, Kim will now have the opportunity to give back and impact so many more communities around the cities.

The expansion is a new chapter, and for others who also want to take the next step in their personal or professional lives, Kim advises, “Trust yourself. Bet on yourself, and while it can be scary sometimes, investing in yourself, in others, in relationships, and surrounding yourself with the right people will get you a long way.”

Now with Kim’s new stores coming soon, no matter where you are in the Twin Cities, you’ll be able to enjoy delicious bundts and celebrate every occasion, even if it’s just to indulge your sweet tooth.

Have your cake and eat it too at: nothingbundtcakes.com

CREATING JOY AND A CALMING OASIS AT HOME

ARTICLE BY LAUREN BEAUBAIRE PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMILY JOHN PHOTOGRAPHY

EXPERT SANDY MAHONEY SHARES HOW TO CULTIVATE A SANCTUARY SPACE TO RELAX & REJUVENATE

Relaxation… Inner Peace… A tranquil sense of calm. No, not the five minutes of peace you experience sipping your coffee before rushing out the door. We’re talking about a designated space in your home that allows you to disconnect from the outside world and tap into your inner calm, nourishing your mind, body, and soul: a sanctuary in your home.

If your first thought was “impossible,” you’re not alone.

So we asked Sandy Mahoney, founder of Create Home, a furnishings and home goods store in downtown Excelsior. Sandy now works with people interested in building and remodeling their homes with Highmark Builders. She recently posed the question to her friends: How do you create a sanctuary in your home?

“Some responses were ‘I can’t’ or ‘I have no where to go?’,” says Sandy. Between kids, a partner, endless work interruptions, or simply limited space in your home, carving out a sanctuary for yourself to unwind and rejuvenate may seem like a nearly impossible task.

“Sanctuary can be a place where we have time alone, a space that you carve out of the bedroom or bathroom,” says Sandy. “And, a sanctuary likely won’t look the same for everyone.”

Sandy Mahoney

“It’s important to get to the heart, and that means discussing how we live, what we value most, and embracing the things we love.”

“I see sanctuary as a place that’s comfortable, that we feel at home, a place that honors the things we value – those things that are important to us – and for each person that may be very different. That could be quality time sharing with family and friends, honoring our faith, wellness and exercise, or opportunities to recharge and relax.”

With experience as a real estate broker, home builder and interior designer, Sandy is truly the “Design Concierge” if you have a question or need help in real estate, finding a homesite, building a home, or remodeling, even how to create a sanctuary in your home, she’s the one to go to.

“Creating a sanctuary in our homes starts with looking at what we hold dear, what’s precious. We look to discover those values when designing a new home, or remodeling a home, and from that, we can add those details that are so personal,” shares Sandy.

One client of Sandy’s finds her calm and place of comfort when she cooks for her friends. She loves to cook and entertain. Constructing the perfect kitchen, with appliances right where you need them, and the perfect pantry and cabintery to organize storage, cooking items and utensils, exploring all the little details like creative spaces for tech items and simple things like where to house the paper towels, creates a space and easeful experience that allows that client to enjoy creating beautiful meals to share with her friends.

“Design, aesthetic, and functionality are important,” explains Sandy. “For this client, we wanted everything to be where she needed it in the kitchen so she could focus her time and energy being with her friends.”

Design & Construction by Highmark Builders

Other sanctuary spaces Sandy sees are designed around relaxation or meditation. “We work with our designers to create a spa-like bath, choosing just the right, free-standing, soaking tub so clients can get away and relax and recharge.”

Whether you envision a sanctuary space dedicated to wellness, like a yoga studio or exercise room, or you want a space to connect with your faith, Sandy encourages you to ask yourself what brings you joy. What do you value? What provides comfort?

“For me, my sanctuary is a beautiful window view in my bedroom,” describes Sandy. “I can shut the door to the room. It’s quiet. Out the window in one direction, I see nature and a picturesque church that lights up beautifully at night. It’s very calming.”

When considering how to cultivate your sanctuary space, Sandy recommends engaging all your senses. How

do you want the space to feel? What do you see? What do you hear? What are the scents? For instance, if you don’t like a certain wall color, repaint it with something more soothing. When choosing artwork, select a piece that transports you somewhere you love.

“So equally important to building and designing a beautiful space, it’s also important to get to the heart, and that means discussing how we live, what we value most, and embracing the things we love,” says Sandy. “Then we dig into those little details in architectural planning and when working with our designers. When that’s done right, and we pull that together with strong, creative architecture and quality construction – that’s not just a house – that’s a home.” See more at: highmarkbuilders.com & createhome.net

Brunch every saturday & sunday 10:00am - 3:00pm

Brunch cocktails | Bloody mary’s Free Cardamom Sugar Donut for everyone!

227 Water Street, Excelsior (952) 283-1952 | coalitionrestaurant.com

Dr. Courtney Blake

CREATURE COMFORTS

When your pet can be treated in the comfort of their own home, any stress they experience is for a much shorter duration.

“No one likes to be poked or prodded,” says Dr. Blake. “But after those few moments during the exam, your pet can go right back to their favorite resting place, have a bite to eat, or go play outside.”

BLAKE

HOME VET IS MAKING HOUSE CALLS, CREATING A STRESSLESS VET EXPERIENCE FOR YOUR PET

ARTICLE BY LAUREN BEAUBAIRE

For Dr. Courtney Blake, owner of Blake Home Vet, the day might begin by coaxing a nervous kitten out from under the bed for a dental cleaning and wrap up by wrangling a 23-pound Asian water monitor lizard for their yearly checkup. Just your typical day as a mobile veterinarian. But, at the end of the day, Dr. Blake’s ultimate goal is to create a stressless vet experience for both your pet and for you.

“By coming to your home, we’re able to significantly decrease your pet’s stress, seeing them in the environment in which they are most comfortable,” explains Dr. Blake. “You don’t have to coerce an anxious pet into your car. They don’t have to sit in an unfamiliar lobby and then in a distressing exam room, listening to all the other animal sounds and smells. That can be very scary for your pet.”

The experience is also far less stressful for pet owners. You don’t have to spend extra time and effort driving, waiting, and dragging a reluctant pet to the vet. Plus, you get more personal oneon-one time with Dr. Blake.

“I’m routinely with my clients for an hour at each visit. They get a lot more time to talk with me and get to know me, and I can answer any questions. In turn, I get to know them and their pet extremely well.”

Dr. Blake sees all species of pets throughout the west metro, including dogs, cats, pocket pets like guinea pigs and rabbits, birds, reptiles, and even backyard chickens. To take out the stress for your pet, Dr. Blake meets them on their level, which means she will work on most pets on the floor or many times in the bathroom if that’s where your pet feels most comfortable. (Or if they’re a flight risk!)

“I knew there was a need for people to be able to be seen in their homes,” shares Dr. Blake. “I love being able to service clients and pets that were potentially unserviceable. Some pets can’t get to the vet either due to their size, aggressiveness, or mobility concerns, or those you just cannot physically convince to go into a carrier. And of course, some clients may not be able to easily get to the vet either.”

Dr. Blake recalls a particularly difficult patient. “Recently, I worked on honestly the most aggressive cat I’ve ever seen. And I worked at the Wildcat Sanctuary. Now, I get to work on just the tiny aggressive cats,” laughs Dr. Blake. “I always say to the little ones, ‘I’m sorry, I’ve worked on tigers, lions, and big cats. I know you seem fearsome, but you’re only eight pounds!’”

Essentially, Dr. Blake brings a clinic to your home, typically accompanied by one of her Certified Veterinary Technicians, Alisa or Jessica. “We have various bags we bring that hold everything from a microscope and centrifuge to do lab work onsite, to medications and a scale for routine checkups,” describes Dr. Blake.

Part of Blake Home Vet’s services includes their mobile vet truck. The truck only gets involved when surgeries are needed, like neutering or dental procedures. Everything else takes place in the comfort of your home.

“I truly enjoy working with clients, and I’m dedicated to providing the best possible care for their pet while ensuring it works for their budget and lifestyle,” says Dr. Blake. “It’s been incredibly rewarding. The majority of our clients are extremely grateful, and I love being able to take care of those animals and pet owners who need help and who otherwise wouldn’t have been able to get it.” Learn more at: blakehomevet.com

Jessica, Certified Veterinary Technician

Make an Impact for Mom

Memorable ways to celebrate the mother figure in your life

The moms and the mother figures in our lives mean everything to us. They deserve the best every day, of course. But at least one day out of the year, we get to shower them with the same love and thoughtfulness they give to us so selflessly.

This year, we hope you’ll consider some memorable ways to make lasting memories with the mom or mother figure in your life. If you haven’t already planned something special, take a look at our list of ideas and circle your favorites. If you have kids, let them join in the fun too!

Whether you decide to spend a day at home or enjoy a day on the town, these innovative celebration ideas will include fun for the whole family and make Mom feel loved. Whatever activity or surprise you land on to show your mom, wife, sister or maternal figure your appreciation for all they do, the most important thing is that you all get to spend some quality time together.

Take a Flower Arranging Class

Mother’s Day arrives just as spring is in full bloom. Take advantage of the season by going to a flower arranging class with mom.

Play a Family Board Game

If Mom likes strategizing, challenge her to a friendly board game competition. (And, no, you don’t have to let her win just because it’s Mother’s Day.)

02 05 04 06 03

Pick Your Own Fruit

This activity is especially fun if you have a lot of kids who want to get in on the action. Then, when you all get home, you can whip up a treat for Mom with your selections. (Maybe give her a strawberry in a Champagne glass while she waits.)

Book Her a Weekend Away

There’s no day like Mother’s Day to be impulsive! Book a weekend trip for the two of you at a cute B&B in a city Mom has always wanted to visit.

Get Theater Tickets

Go to a play or a musical — lots of towns even host outdoor theater events.

Complete a Jigsaw Puzzle

Find a puzzle with an image you know your mom will love (or make a custom one using a photo of the two of you) and put it together over wine and snacks. You’ll be amazed at how much chatting you can get done while puzzling. 07 Invite Her To High Tea

Whether you make the brews and treats yourself or head out to an official tea house, Mom will love sipping her beverage out of fancy china and snacking on tea sandwiches.

realty report

Will you be able to retire when you want to retire?

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

MAY 4TH

Tonka Trail Trot

DEEPHAVEN ELEMENTARY

6:00 PM

Bring the kiddos out for the Tonka Trail Trot! First through fifth graders will run the trails and hills in this exciting, cross country mile set on the beautiful campus of Minnetonka Community Education Center and Deephaven Elementary. When you sign up for the Tonka Trail Trot, receive $5 off registration for the Tonka Youth Triathlon on May, 20a run, bike and swim event open to all boys and girls in grades 2-8.

MAY 7TH

Bud Break 2023 5K Run/Walk

MINNESOTA LANDSCAPE

ARBORETUM | 7:30 AM

Welcome spring with a gorgeous 5K run/ walk through the Arboretum gardens. The certified 5K course starts and ends at the Farm at the Arb. The Kid’s 1K loops around the event lawns near the historic red barn, allowing for a great area to cheer on the little racers. After the race, stroll through the spring blooms and shop the May Markets, perusing 60+ local vendors, artists and artisans.  arb. umn.edu/events/budbreak5k

MAY 7TH

5k and 10k Beer Run at Excelsior Brewing Co

EXCELSIOR BREWING CO | 10:00 AM Head to Excelsior Brewing Co on Sunday, May 7 for a 5k and 10k Beer Run. The route starts and ends at the taproom. Enjoy the scenic Lake Minnetonka Regional Trail - run, walk, or jog. At the finish line you'll receive one craft brew, swag items, door prizes, live music, and more. 10% of the proceeds will go directly to local organizations, Touchstone Mental Health and Clean River Partners.

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.

students with this postcard. 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.

GYPSET Midwest Yoga 15400 Minnetonka Industrial Road Minnetonka, MN

BUYERS LOVE MY SELLERS’ HOMES

445 Lilium Trail, Medina, MN 55340 5 Bd | 4 Ba | 3 Car | 4,473 SF | $899,900

5th bedroom for guest or nanny quarters

Finished lower level for kids playroom or entertaining

Ample storeage in lower level

Conveniently located near Hwy. 55

Less than 10 min. drive to Plymouth amenities

3 car garage with 220v outlet for charging

Lakes Area Realty Excelsior 37 Water Street, Excelsior, 55331 (612) 229-9322

Chris@ChrisDennisGroup.com LakesAreaExcelsior.com

MAY 12TH-14TH

South Lake Minnetonka Community Wide Garage Sale

SHOREWOOD, DEEPHAVEN, GREENWOOD, TONKA BAY, AND EXCELSIOR | 12:00 PM

For the second year, the five cities of Shorewood, Deephaven, Greenwood, Tonka Bay, and Excelsior will host a community-wide garage sale Friday, May 12 through Sunday, May 14. Hours and days will be at the discretion of the person holding the sale with local businesses also participating. For more information and an interactive map of where to find the sales go to: www. excelsiorlakeminnetonkachamber. com/community-garage-sales.

MAY 12TH

MODA Salon Launch Party

MODA SALON 701 LAKE

STREET, WAYZATA | 6:30 PM

Celebrate MODA Salon's expanded space in Wayzata at their Launch Party on Friday, May 12! The fun begins at 6:30pm. Come enjoy sips and sweets, Permanent jewelry by @neverbreakthechain, see the new space, and meet and mingle with the stylists. The first 30 people through the door will receive a $30 gift card at MODA. Check out more at: www.modamademn.com

MAY 17TH

Concerts in the Commons

EXCELSIOR COMMONS PARK 5:00 PM

Concerts in the Commons returns starting Wednesday, May 17. Enjoy free live music, great food and drinks, and sunsets over Lake Minnetonka. Vendors open at 5pm and the music starts at 7pm. Not only are these concerts a fun way to spend a Minnesota summer night, they also help raise money to support Community for the Commons as they improve the park. The first performance is Mallrats.

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