Lake Minnetonka, MN May 2025 by City Lifestyle

The Ladies Issue

As the warmth of spring settles in, so does our appreciation for the incredible women who make our community stronger, kinder, and more connected. This May, we are proud to dedicate our Ladies Issue to the inspiring women who lead, serve, and uplift those around them.

This month, we highlight women who command the waves with Lake Minnetonka Sailing School’s “Women on the Water” program and meet the young Minnetonka grad empowering girls through her nonprofit Girls Run Global. We also enjoy a day of pampering at Bella on the Bay, learn how to create a haven in our home with Haus of Rowe, and check out the newest trends and must-haves in the housing market with Ulrich Real Estate Group. Gear West helps us get geared up for summer fitness, and if you find yourself needing a little extra motivation to get moving, Jen shares her formula for exercising when you’re most definitely not an exercise enthusiast in her latest “Life Minded” column.

This issue is a celebration of women who make a difference—not just in the workplace but in every aspect of our community. Their stories remind us of the importance of investing in one another, lifting each other up, and recognizing the invaluable contributions women make every day.

As always, I would like to thank all the Lake Minnetonka Lifestyle partners. Their generous support enables us to get our magazine directly into our readers’ homes. Please don’t hesitate to contact me (dave.robertson@citylifestyle.com) if you have a story to share or a business to recommend.

DAVE ROBERTSON, PUBLISHER

May 2025

PUBLISHER

Dave Robertson | dave.robertson@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Lauren Beaubaire | lauren.beaubaire@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Kendra Johnson, Hannah Harms, Sara Hoeman, Graham Johnson, Rebecca A. Hahn, Thomas Brown, Jen Fortner, Amy Salvagno

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Anna Ko Photography, Emily John Photography, Rebecca A. Hahn, Jenna Oxford, Chelsie Lopez, Spacecrafting, Kira Stetler, Rachel Bartel, Chicka Merino

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 Andi Foster

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas

Proverbs 3:5-6

inside the issue

Lake Minnetonka

Haus

How

Ulrich

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1-7: Runners started their St. Paddy’s Day celebrations with a 5k and 1-mile run at this year’s Luck O’ the Lake in Excelsior with a fun after-party at Excelsior Brewing Co. Photography by Emily John Photography

Over 50 Years of Water Solutions with Haferman Water

For 53 years, Haferman Water has been the trusted, family-owned name in water treatment. They’re proud to help our community enjoy better water with top-quality softeners and specialty systems. Whether you're looking to improve your water quality or need expert advice, their team is here to make your water worry-free. Experience the difference trusted service makes—visit HafermanWater. com or call (952) 894-4040 today!

The Hopkins Depot is Back Open!

The Depot has officially reopened its doors! Come relax and enjoy a cup of coffee, refreshments, and light snacks. You can also check out featured artwork and exhibitions by the Hopkins Center for the Arts' Member Artists in the Bay Room. On the 4th Thursday of the month, The Depot will host Open Mic Night for music, spoken word, and comedy. The space is also available for rent for meetings, parties, receptions, concerts and more! Learn more: https://www.hopkinsartscenter. com/311/The-Depot

Nothing Bundt Sweetness for Mom on Mother's Day

This year treat your mom to the sweetest Mother’s Day! Nothing Bundt Cakes bakeries Bring the Joy™ by offering handcrafted Bundt Cakes in a variety of flavors and sizes, such as Bundtinis®, miniature Bundtlets and 8- and 10-inch Bundt Cakes. These delicious and beautifully decorated treats are perfect for every celebration! Visit their locations in Bloomington at Mall of America, Eagan, Eden Prairie, Minnetonka, Prior Lake-Savage, or online at www. nothingbundtcakes.com.

Photography by Haferman Water Conditioning

Photography by Hopkins Center for the Arts

Photography by Nothing Bundt Cakes

A SPACE TO CALL YOUR OWN

Haus of Rowe shares how intentional design transforms your home into a haven

ARTICLE BY SARA HOEMAN

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHELSIE LOPEZ

Between juggling family needs or sharing a space with a roommate or partner, our homes sometimes feel like they lack what we need—a sanctuary for us. Interior design firm Haus of Rowe shares easy ideas on how you can carve out that much-needed space in your own home. After all, it’s simply about reclaiming your space and finding the serenity you need and deserve!

“We need a place to retreat, to breathe, to feel grounded. A space that welcomes us back to ourselves amid the chaos.”

Five years ago, as we all hunkered down at home to weather the pandemic storm, creating desirable spaces around was all the focus. Between working from home, exercising from home, and eating most of our meals from home, home renovation projects were all the rage. Fast forward to today, and while we are back to being out and about, the focus of curating a space that is uniquely you and functional is very much in style. “Today’s homes are not just places to live; they are sanctuaries that need to function effortlessly, providing solutions for an overall ease of living,” says Marcelle Timonen, Haus of Rowe Co-Founder.

A PLACE TO WORK

Call it an after-effect of COVID, but everyone has been putting high emphasis on creating a

home office space that is functional and has lots of personality. “One of the most notable shifts we’re seeing is the rise of home offices designed specifically for women,” says Marcelle. “These spaces are more than just functional workstations; they are curated environments with stunning wallcoverings and artful details, perfect for Zoom calls and fostering creativity.”

Even simple swaps such as installing floating shelving, prioritizing soft lighting on your desk, and adding your favorite pictures or books can make the space feel like your own. “If you’re working with a limited budget, peel-and-stick wallpaper is an effortless way to create a beautiful backdrop,” says Marcelle. “It adds personality without commitment and elevates your space.”

A LANDING PLACE

An entryway or mudroom so often ends up as the dumping ground for stacks of mail, coats, shoes, and bags. This space can either reduce your stress levels or add to it. “Mudrooms have also transformed into highly functional command centers, designed to streamline the chaos of daily life,” says Marcelle. “With dedicated storage for school and sports gear, built-in charging stations, and even water bottle fillers, these spaces are tailored to keep everything in its place—helping families stay organized while maintaining a sense of calm.”

Depending on the size and location of this space in your home, adding a small bench with fun throw pillows, selecting a paint color or wallpaper that is unexpected, or a vibrant piece of art you love can make this area feel a lot more like you—even when everyone walks through it every day.

A ROOM FOR YOU

Wellness, fitness, and health are all taking center stage in our homes and beyond. “We’re incorporating tranquil workout rooms complete with saunas, meditation nooks, and dedicated spaces for yoga—supporting women in their pursuit of balance and well-being within the comfort of home,” says Marcelle. Even small updates, such as calming wall colors and nature-inspired artwork, can bring that much-needed balance. “Whether it’s a designated yoga corner or a spot for light stretching, these small touches create a peaceful escape.”

If you know you want to elevate your space and make it your own but aren’t quite sure where to start, Marcelle and her team at Haus of Rowe are here.

“We meticulously select materials, fabrics, and finishes with intention, ensuring every detail feels natural and cohesive. We don’t just create beautiful spaces— we create homes that feel like you.”

“Our design process is deeply personal, guided by a commitment to understanding not just how you want your home to look, but how you need it to live,” says Marcelle. They take the time and space to understand you, your family, your lifestyle, and what you want to ultimately achieve. “We meticulously select materials, fabrics, and finishes with intention, ensuring that every detail feels natural and cohesive,” says Marcelle. “We don’t just create beautiful spaces—we create homes that feel like you.”

Our homes are meant to inspire, relax, and be our refuge from the world—and that means something different to everyone. “More than

ever, we need a place to retreat, to breathe, to feel grounded. A space that welcomes us back to ourselves amid the chaos,” reflects Marcelle.

“Whether it’s a serene corner for morning coffee, a beautifully organized workspace, or a quiet nook to recharge, these intentional spaces offer a sense of ease and tranquility in the constant motion of everyday life.” So, take some time to reflect, feel inspired, and make the kind of swaps and changes that help you feel like you are in your own home.

Visit https://www.hausofroweinteriors.com/ if you are interested in connecting with Marcelle and her team.

WOMEN COMMAND THE WAVES

HOW LAKE MINNETONKA SAILING SCHOOL IS GETTING WOMEN OUT ON THE WATER

ARTICLE BY THOMAS BROWN

Lake Minnetonka, world-famous for its classic summer lifestyle, is also home to one of the country’s most prestigious adult women’s sailing programs called “Women On The Water” or just “WOW.” It’s organized through the Lake Minnetonka Sailing School (LMSS), which, in turn, is a partner with the world-famous Minnetonka Yacht Club (MYC).

Photography by Rachel Bartel

Minnetonka Yacht Club, organized in 1882, is the oldest yacht club west of the Mississippi River and sits on its own private island. Its sailing venue expanse surrounds the island as a perfect and legendary place to learn to sail.

The main organizer of WOW is Clare Leeper, a dedicated influencer of the sport. Clare grew up sailing locally with her parents in her early years and then lived the same experience as her current youth students with sailing camps and high school and university-level teams. She is also an accomplished competitive sailor in her own right.

When you meet Clare, she exudes her passion for sailing, and her enthusiasm for the WOW mission perfectly fits its name.

Reflecting on the origins of WOW, Clare says, “When we think of women’s sports, we usually think of the major team sports such as hockey or basketball, but often these genres can be a barrier to those who do not have previous athletic experience or are simply shy of the team setting. WOW was created for women from all backgrounds, abilities, and ages to stir their sense of adventure and fill it with the lifetime sport of sailing.”

One of the key mantras of WOW is to welcome all women to sailing, regardless of previous experience. Initially, it consisted of several casual ‘charcuterie and cheese’ sailing outings during the summer months with invited newcomers. The response from the community was overwhelmingly positive.

Clare and her co-director Samuel then expanded this opportunity to meet the demand yet kept the casual and beginner nature of these mini adventures. The result for 2025 is four different learn-to-sale class series sessions, one for each month from June to September, with each session consisting of four

“Many of our patrons come into the program alone but leave with lifelong friendships.”

classes during their respective month. In other words, registering for a session gives you four weekly outings during one of the summer months.

The focus of the learn-to-sail sessions is camaraderie, fun, and encouragement for women of all walks of life and abilities in a comfortable and safe setting. It is taught for women by women. The classes are held on the very stable (won’t tip over) Sonar keelboat, typically with four students per boat. With a prudent skipper like Clare, you can also be

—CLARE LEEPER

Photography by LMSS Coach

Clare Leeper, Lake Minnetonka Sailing School Director of Recreational Sailing and Administration.

Photography by Thomas Brown

CONTINUED

confident that safety is number one. Clare says, “Many of our patrons come into the program alone but leave with lifelong friendships.”

There is an old saying: “Any time two sailboats are within sight of each other, there’s a race going on.” For those who have caught the bug but now want to take it to the next level, WOW has added a similar set of three summer sessions, each with four outings that take sailing to the next level: racing.

Racing sailors can sail on the new RS Fevas XL boats, adding some excitement to the game. Sessions will still have the fun and camaraderie, of course, but will focus on the knowledge and skills to skipper or crew a boat in a competitive event.

“WOW is intended to ignite a passion in the lifetime sport of sailing,” says Clare. “We have participants that range from young adults to those in their 80s. Our goal is for women to become members of Minnetonka Yacht Club and begin racing in local club races. This can eventually lead to being a member of a competitive team at regional and national levels in ILYA (Inland Lakes Yachting Association) events and Melges 15 regattas.”

Whether it’s enjoying the “charcuterie and cheese” events, the friendships, or pursuing a competitive racing future, the WOW program is worth a look.

Perhaps this could be your passion, too?

Check out LMSS Women on the Water at: https://www. lmss.us/evening-offerings/wow

Photography by Chicka Merino, YMCA

Photography by LMSS Coach

Crafting atmospheres that become an integral part of the memories and moments that shape our lives

• Complete

• New Decking Options -retrofit existing framework

• Boathouses Complete new Boathousesall/any size.

• Canvas replacement Replacements of wood slats with metal slats

ARTICLE BY GRAHAM JOHNSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY GIRLS RUN GLOBAL

Running with an Idea

HOW ONE MINNETONKA GRAD IS EMPOWERING GIRLS THROUGH HER NONPROFIT GIRLS RUN GLOBAL

“I would not be the person I am without running,” says Maya Mor, the Founder and Executive Director of Girls Run Global, a nonprofit that works with young girls to teach life skills through running. Girls Run Global currently works with Secondary Education for Girls’ Advancement (SEGA), a girls’ secondary school in Morogoro, Tanzania, providing mentorship, running gear, and programming to students.

Maya Mor, founder of Girls Run Global

“Finding something that excites you is empowering in its own right. I had this idea, and I just ran with it.”

The path to creating Girls Run Global and working with the students of a secondary school in Tanzania follows two threads: sport and gender equality. Even from a young age as an avid soccer player, the inequality in sports bothered Maya. As a third grader, Maya was writing about why the U.S. women’s national soccer team should be playing on real grass just like the men’s team rather than turf.

Maya would eventually go on to run track and cross country during high school, but due to ongoing injuries, she took a gap year after graduation. After deciding to take the gap year, Maya considered going to SubSaharan Africa to travel and wanted to find a volunteering opportunity for when she was there. What she did instead was start her own nonprofit.

“Finding something that excites you is empowering in its own right,” says Maya. And while there are nonprofits that teach STEM or English in Sub-Saharan Africa, her passion has always been running, so “I had this idea, and I just ran with it,” quips Maya.

Maya started reaching out to local schools with a general idea of providing running gear and leading a girls’ running camp. Soon, she realized she wanted to take things further by creating an official nonprofit devoted to empowering girls through running.

In May of last year, Girls Run Global’s first running program launched at SEGA, an all-girls secondary school funded by the US nonprofit Nurturing Minds. The school brings in girls on scholarship from around Tanzania.

“Our goal isn’t to turn girls into Olympians, but to develop skills towards their professional goals.”

The 2024 in-person program worked with some 70 students ages 13-19 to lay the foundations for a sustained girls’ running group at the school. Students’ own interest in running was key. The sport was not forced on students but used as a vehicle for personal growth. “Our goal isn’t to turn girls into Olympians, but to use sport as a tool for girls to develop skills that better enable them to achieve their goals,” says Maya.

Girls Run Global brought out kits with running equipment for each of the SEGA student runners with items like running shoes and sports bras. The organization also works to mentor students both from within the school and beyond. Guest speakers like three-time Olympian Diane Nukuri, who ran for Burundi, worked with students to showcase the impact running can have. “You’ve gotta see it to believe you can do it,” says Maya.

With the second year of in-person programming scheduled for the summer of 2025, the Girls Run Global team will work with 64 new runners at SEGA. Maya hopes that some of the older students involved in the program will help newer students.

Despite the nonprofit’s work, Maya credits the SEGA staff: “Any success we have in the future will be because of the faculty there.”

While the program started in Tanzania, the nonprofit’s model has global ambitions. Girls Run Global is actively working to expand to other schools in Latin America. As they focus on growing the program, Girls Run Global is working to live up to its name’s ambition and leverage the power of running across the globe.

Learn more: https://www.girlsrunglobal.org/

STAY CONNECTED TO YOUR COMMUNITY

MINNETONKA

ULRICH REAL ESTATE GROUP SHARES THE TOP HOME TRENDS BUYERS ARE LOOKING FOR THIS SPRING

Homebuyer Must-Haves

ARTICLE BY KENDRA JOHNSON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SPACECRAFTING AND KIRA STETLER

With the spring homebuying season well underway, it’s always fun to take a look at the newest trends and must-haves in the housing market. And for the average person, it’s not a stretch to say that the last five years have caused a massive shift in everyday life — one that continues to have lingering effects on how they live, work, and relax in their homes.

Ulrich Real Estate Group, based in Wayzata, is seeing these trends play out firsthand as they assist homebuyers with building custom homes or discovering an existing home to meet their needs.

The mother-daughter duo of Beth Ulrich and Chelsey Danielson has noticed some particular trends tied to family, leisure, and work.

“Proximity to family has been a huge trend — lots of people moving closer to grandparents, kids, or siblings to be surrounded by their people. People really seem to want to be close all hanging out on one level, close to activities, close to each other,” Chelsey says.

Whether with new construction or an existing home, the location is just as important as the amenities inside the home. Having friends and family nearby is enticing for people of all ages, especially for families.

The “walkability” of the area has also proven to be a major draw for homebuyers.

According to Beth and Chelsey, families are seeking areas that allow them to walk to shops, restaurants, and other amenities. “The sense of community and activity just outside of your front door and a few steps away is a priority.”

The Lake Minnetonka area is a huge draw for this exact reason, with families often moving to the area for the beautiful sights and community ties.

When it comes to the home itself, privacy is still an important element, especially with more gatherings happening in the home rather than in town compared to previous years. Families are specifically looking for more space in the form of big yards with outdoor spaces for entertaining or hanging out. This typically means homeowners are looking for privacy fences or mature trees between their property and the neighbors.

Moving inside the home is where the real fun begins for recent trends, specifically those tied to work and leisure.

When determining what will work best for a particular client, Beth and Chelsey ask questions about their day-to-day schedules, interests, and how they spend their free time. “Trends depend on the lifestyle of our buyers,” Chelsey notes.

Most recently, Beth and Chelsey have seen an increased interest in home offices, playrooms, golf simulators, and saunas.

Having a dedicated home office space for work has been a growing trend as more people work from home and need a secluded environment. Many of these offices are outfitted with French doors or transom windows to allow natural light to seep in and provide better accessibility to see other areas of the home.

Within that same vein, dedicated playrooms for the kids help keep the rest of the house free of clutter and CONTINUED

Proximity to family has been a huge trend—moving closer to grandparents, kids, or siblings. “ ”

Beth Ulrich and Chelsey Danielson.

Photography by Kira Stetler

create a safe space for the children to spend their time — a win-win for parents wanting to relax in another room.

Golf simulators and saunas are two of the more unique trends coming out of this homebuying season as more people want their homes to simultaneously be places of comfort and enjoyment.

Despite the newer trends around family, work, and leisure, the biggest must-have Ulrich Real Estate Group continues to see is the open main floor layout. Open floor plans aren’t necessarily a new trend, but recently, this must-have is directly linked to the desire for all the other amenities. From easy access to

the backyard for entertaining to easy viewing when working or lounging around the house, the open floor plan is a sleek layout perfect for accommodating today’s newest trends.

“I do think that COVID and remote work has shifted some lifestyles and day-to-day and thus created some new wants/needs for our buyers,” Chelsey says.

Ready to enter the housing market this spring? Ulrich Real Estate Group is here to help you find or build that perfect abode that offers a true sense of home.

https://ulrichrealestategroup.com/

My primary extracurricular activity as a child was dance. I took classes as a four and five-year-old at a tiny neighborhood studio called Sharon’s School of Dance. I was the breakout star in the number “Teddy Bear Parade,” if you ask my mother. At six, I got serious

RUNNING MY MOUTH IS MY CARDIO

about dance, and my mother drove roundtrip downtown Minneapolis from the suburbs five days a week so I could pursue my passion. I spent the majority of 1977-1988 at the Minnesota Dance Theater, the premiere school in the state, which still flourishes today.

It was love. The training, the performing, the friends. Oh, the friends. I’m certain I made many

Life Minded

teachers crazy with my gift for gab with my classmates. I regret nothing. I spent more hours with my dance friends than I ever did with my school friends. We performed at The Ordway and Northrup Auditorium, we met Prince and Baryshnikov in the studios at MDT, we had world-renown guest artists, and we took French language classes and Flamenco dancing. The dance theater was a complete world unto its own. Some of my most precious friendships were forged there, and those bonds are permanent. I learned discipline. I learned how to develop a rich inner life during hours at the ballet barre. I learned how to face challenges and disappointments as I either got or was denied various roles. I learned I really hate wearing tights.

But during the entire time of driving back and forth and dancing and missing things at school and coping with bleeding feet and having no toenails for most of the mid-80s (not a popular look in high school) I had been completely unaware of one central fact. I was exercising. Nobody told me. The fact I had exercised at high intensity my entire life didn’t occur to me until I stopped.

Minded

Then, one day, I turned twenty-nine. I was pregnant with my first child and was diagnosed with gestational diabetes. Avoid that if you can. And apparently, the medical community thinks it’s important to exercise. On purpose. Regularly. This was very irritating news to learn. But I did it because my child’s needs come before mine and because I’m a rule follower.

By my third pregnancy I dragged myself to the health club even in the fortieth week. I did not have gestational diabetes that time, and I feel in my bones it is because of the exercise. So I went and kept going. People gave me adorable nods of approval as I lumbered up the stairs to heave myself onto the elliptical machine. I imagine they thought I was a fitness lover. But they were wrong.

I was thirty-seven and filled with weight and rage, and I did what I felt I had to do. Here is where lifelong discipline pays off. I did it, but I didn’t like it. I am just not an exercise enthusiast. This isn’t a popular thing to say in a room full of people training for a marathon. I often find myself in situations where I’m in a room with

people who are training for an insane run, bike race, cross-country ski event, or swim. If you want to compete, don’t challenge me. Actually, please don’t even invite me. I’m happy to sleep in and cheer you on and meet up after for a Reuben. But I finally understand the long game of movement. To feel strong. To maintain mobility. To stave off pain. To live well. So, I have found a formula that works for me, and I’m grateful for dance.

I do Pilates on a reformer once a week with an amazing friend/trainer. I do yoga at my local studio with another lovely friend/instructor. I meet one of my former co-workers nearly every weekend for hot yoga followed by hot coffee. I take long walks with friends and my dog. I go cheerfully, and I’m stronger than ever.

I am training for nothing. I want to stay as healthy as possible for as long as possible. I realize I keep showing up mainly to socialize. Like I did when I was seven. And I get in trouble only slightly less now for talking in class. Let’s not call it exercise. Let’s call it wellness with friends, and I’m in.

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 with her husband, three children and the most spoiled dog.

COLUMN BY JEN FORTNER

Selina Martire, Agent www.selinamartire.com

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

A Day of Pampering

and

Nestled within the walls of an old Victorian house, Bella on the Bay provides a warm, inviting escape from the everyday hustle. Since opening its doors in 2006, the salon has become a sanctuary for those seeking personalized beauty and wellness services, all while feeling right at home.

Missi Davis, owner and esthetician, took over Bella on the Bay eight years ago after joining the team in 2013. “What sets us apart is not just the services or the products that we offer, but the fact that we’re located in an old Victorian house…it makes it warm, inviting, and homey,” says Missi.

Luxury meets comfort

relaxation is always on the menu at Bella on the Bay

ARTICLE BY HANNAH HARMS | PHOTOGRAPHY

BY ANNA KO

PHOTOGRAPHY

From the moment you walk into the salon, Bella on the Bay treats you like a cherished guest, as if you were in a loved one’s home. Every visitor is greeted with genuine warmth – a beverage in hand, a coat hung with care, and a personalized escort to their designated service area. This thoughtful hospitality transforms a standard appointment into a luxurious retreat, leaving guests feeling their best long before and after they receive their service.

If you’re a first-time visitor, the possibilities for pampering are endless. Bella on the Bay offers a variety of services that can make you feel rejuvenated from head to toe, including hair treatments, facials, makeup applications, massages, manicures, and pedicures. Each service begins with a thoughtful consultation, ensuring you receive a customized experience that’s tailored to your needs and overall vision.

The hair department goes beyond basic cuts and colors. Whether you want a specialized color application, scalp treatment, or added length and volume from hair extensions, Bella on the Bay has it all. The focus on scalp health is a growing trend the salon embraces, with the understanding that a healthy scalp is the foundation for beautiful hair.

CONTINUED >

If you’re in the mood for a little relaxation and rejuvenation, Bella on the Bay has skilled massage therapists who can relieve stress and tensed muscles. They also offer body treatments such as wraps and body polishes to give you a glow from head to toe. Facials are equally bespoke, utilizing a mixology approach to blend masks and serums for optimal results. Even a pedicure at Bella on the Bay is an indulgent experience, where you not only can select your polish color but also choose the scent for your foot soak and lotion.

Planning a group visit? Bella on the Bay will cater to groups, allowing you to share a relaxing experience with your loved ones. Whether you’re at a bridal party, celebrating a birthday, or pampering your mom on Mother’s Day, the team will make you feel your best.

As the salon looks into the future, its goals remain clear: to continue thriving and growing in the ever-evolving beauty industry. “I’m always looking for ways to meet our client’s needs the best that we can,” says Missi. With a foundation built on sustainable practices and personalized care, Bella on the Bay is poised to remain a beloved retreat for years to come.

Whether you’re seeking a solo day of self-care or planning a mini getaway with loved ones, Bella on the Bay offers an unparalleled pampering experience. Here, luxury meets comfort. It’s a space where every guest will feel like family, and every service is a step toward feeling your best.

https://www.bellaonthebay.com/

Missi Davis, owner of Bella on the Bay

Gearing Up!

Gear West shares fun ways to get moving this summer

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY REBECCA A. HAHN

Now that we can count on the warmer temperatures sticking around, how will you spend your time outside? If you only have a couple of unscheduled hours, how do you decide what to do with those precious hours?

Get Rolling with Rollerskis

From pavement to powder

Rollerskis are a “must-have” item for anyone who wants to improve their downhill skiing talents. Who says you can’t train all year round in Minnesota? At Gear West, if you already own ski boots, you can buy everything else you will need to give this sport a try for around $319. This is also a very popular way to get yourself in shape this summer!

Rent an E-Bike

Weekend adventures made easy

Did you know that Gear West rents bikes? For around $100 a day, one can even rent an E-Bike! This is a great idea for your guests who visit for the summer. If you would like to organize a bike trip for the weekend, that’s not a problem. However, if you’re thinking of doing it over Memorial Day weekend, you’d better call Gear West today!

You could flip a coin: “Heads, it’s lawn chores,” or “tails, it’s biking, running, or what about rollerskiing?” According to Michael, a salesperson at Gear West in Long Lake, “Great downhill skiers are made in the summer.” Apparently, rollerskiing is catching on in a big way, and it’s not that expensive if you already have ski boots. For $319, anyone can give this sport a try.

Gear West Ski and Bike first opened its doors on September 20, 1995. Over the past 30 years, this building, which began as a 500-square-foot rental, became one of the top sporting equipment stores in Minnesota. It’s a store worth your time, and while you’re there, ask someone to tell you the story of “Hoover the Pig!”

Get Geared Up!

Helpful and friendly staff

Mathew, Kathleen, and Michael are just a few of a fun and very informative salesforce at Gear West in Long Lake. While you’re in the store, ask anyone to tell you about their custom shoe and boot fitting service. You’ll be able to shop and compare different styles and brands of running, biking, rollerski boots, and hiking shoes as well.

Tuesday Night Trails

If you’ve had enough Pickleball for the week, but still have energy to burn, check your calendar, and if it’s Tuesday, you’re in luck. Gear West has a unique program called “Tuesday Night Trails,” which is open to all abilities — no runners left behind when you show up at 1786 W. Wayzata Blvd. Plan to spend two hours enjoying nature and meeting other runners, alternating between Wolsfeld, Woodrill, and Theodore Wirth Parks. Running accessories are also available for you to demo. Just ask someone at Gear West!

Nestled just one block from Excelsior’s historic Water Street, this beautifully landscaped 4-bedroom, 4-bathroom home offers an unbeatable location abutting Lake Minnetonka Regional Trail and exceptional privacy with modern comforts. Situated within walking distance of Kowalski’s Market, numerous restaurants, churches, and banks, this home provides the perfect blend of walkability and seclusion, sitting on one of the largest and most private lots in Excelsior.

BUYERS LOVE MY SELLERS’ HOMES WORK

CHRIS DENNIS, ASSOCIATE BROKER

Lakes Area Realty Excelsior 37 Water Street, Excelsior, 55331

(612) 229-9322

Chris@ChrisDennisGroup.com LakesAreaExcelsior.com

MAY 1ST

Member Artist Exhibit

Hopkins Center for the Arts | 9:00 AM

The annual Spring Member Artist Exhibit is now on display at the Hopkins Center for the Arts. This unique exhibit showcases the incredible talent of Friends of the Hopkins Center for the Arts member artists. Each artist submits one piece, allowing you to enjoy a variety of different artwork and styles in one place. The exhibit ends on May 17 and is free to view! https://www.hopkinsartscenter. com/151/Spring-Members-Show

MAY 1ST

Great Deals at Five Swans' Annual Garage Sale

Five Swans in Wayzata | 10:00 AM

Five Swans is hosting their Annual Garage Sale starting Thursday, May 1, and running through Saturday, May 3. It's time for their spring cleaning, and that means you get big discounts on their beautiful home goods and products! Hosted in the Five Swans' parking garage (making it a true garage sale!), you'll find great deals on everything from overstock to old stock.

MAY 3RD

Cottagewood General Store Season Opening

Cottagewood General Store | 8:00 AM

Cottagewood General Store is kicking off the spring season with a fun Opening Day event at their store from 8am-5pm. Stop in to grab a coffee with friends, enjoy a sweet treat, and, of course, peruse this year’s unique collection of apparel and home goods. Their next event is Women's Happy Hour on Tuesday, May 6 from 5:30-7:30pm. More info: https://www. cottagewoodstore.com/events

MAY 17TH

Mainstreet Day Arts & Craft Fair

Downtown Hopkins | 9:00 AM

The annual Mainstreet Day Arts & Craft Fair is back with more than 250 vendors setting up shop in downtown Hopkins from 9am-4pm. Come discover your new favorite items and shop homemade crafts, woodworking, art, clothing, garden décor, and more. There's also free entertainment, games for the kids, and some of the best food trucks around. Learn more: https://jcihopkins. com/mainstreetday.php

MAY 17TH

Dare to Compare: In-Water Demo Weekend

Maynards, Lake Minnetonka | 11:00 AM

Join MarineMax Excelsior and Minnesota Inboard Water Sports for an immersive weekend on Lake Minnetonka May 17-18. Explore a curated selection of the most sought-after wake boats, including the exceptional Nautiques, in a relaxed and engaging atmosphere. This is your opportunity to compare features, experience in-water demos, ask all your questions, and connect with a passionate community of boaters. Register here: https://www. marinemax.com/stores/excelsior/ events/demo-days/dare-to-comparein-water-demo-weekend-2025-05-17

MAY 28TH

Concerts in the Commons Kick-Off

Excelsior Commons | 5:00 PM

Don't miss the first night of Concerts in the Commons as they kick off with a great performance by Ragtown. Come early to grab your spot on the lawn and enjoy some drinks and tasty bites as vendors open up at 5pm. The music starts at 7pm and, as always, it's free to attend! Check out the full summer lineup here: https:// www.excelsiorconcerts.com/

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Ask Susan

Dear Susan: When it comes to family finances, they have me flustered. Any suggestions on how to get comfortable?

Susan:

When you’re not used to overseeing your family finances, it can be daunting. Accounts, investments, deductions, IRA’s and taxes can get your head spinning. If you have a partner who currently takes care of the finances, ask to sit down and have them explain what they do. Start broad. Review budgets, expenses and investments. However, if you are taking over this role and would like to truly understand what the numbers mean, then I’d suggest you align with someone that you trust to coach you through this initial process. It needs to be someone that really has patience and knowledge. This is where you may consider a professional advisor to help you. It takes time, so don’t be discouraged. Good luck. You can do this! Click the QR code for my video and a deeper discussion on understanding finances.

Susan Stiles CFP,

Founder / CEO Stiles Financial Services, Inc.

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMY SALVAGNO

Elevated Cocktail for Brunch Beyond &

A Fun Spirit To Spoil Mom With This Mother’s Day

Whether Mom prefers to dine reclining pillow-side in pajamas or beside a beautifully dressed table, she’ll appreciate an elegant, elevated cocktail to make her brunch menu extra special. So while she’s indulging in a few extra pieces of bacon, savoring bites of flaky quiche and luxuriating over berry and whipped creamtopped pancakes, impress her with this morning-friendly mix.