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The Style Issue S E P TE M B E R 2 02 6

Custom Walk-In Closet in Orono, MN

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

Where Style Meets the Season As summer gently winds down across the shores of Lake Minnetonka, September brings an unmistakable shift in the air. There is a crispness to our mornings, a rich golden warmth in the late afternoon sun, and that familiar, bittersweet local signpost: "docks out" season is right around the corner. It is a time of transition, reflection, and quiet renewal — the perfect backdrop for our annual Style issue. Around here, style isn't defined by fleeting runway trends. To us, true style is an authentic expression of how we live, how we present ourselves to our community, and how we curate beauty in our daily routines. It is about confidence, intentionality, and taking pride in the details — whether that means finding a fall palette that elevates your wardrobe or celebrating the craft of timeless grooming. In this issue, we dive into the elements that define personal polish. For the gentlemen, we feature the master stylists at 18/8 Fine Men’s Salons, highlighting elevated grooming techniques to refine your presentation. We explore personal color analysis to help you find autumn shades that effortlessly enhance your natural look and set off on a Wayzata treasure hunt where timeless pieces find new life. We also share chic tips for accessorizing your favorite handbag and look at the foundation of every outfit in our shoe-focused Life Minded column! Finally, because local style extends to our homes, we break down essential steps for dock removal and join landscape expert Dale Johnson to prep your yard for a thriving spring. As we embrace the cozier months ahead, I encourage you to pause, soak in the changing colors around our beautiful lake, and discover what personal style means to you this season. See you around the lake!

September 2026 PUBLISHER

Dave Robertson | dave.robertson@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R

Lauren Beaubaire | lauren.beaubaire@citylifestyle.com P U B L I CAT I O N D I R E C TO R

Kate Munson | kate.munson@citylifestyle.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Graham Johnson, Haley Asanovich, Rebecca A. Hahn, Lauren Beaubaire, Stacy Leach, Allison Bankston, Madeline LeBlanc, Jen Fortner C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R S

Emily John Photography, Emmalee Rathsam, Colin McDougall

Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt President Matthew Perry COO David Stetler CRO Jamie Pentz CoS Janeane Thompson AD DESIGNER Mary Albers LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell

D AV E R O B E R T S O N , P U B L I S H E R @LAKEMINNETONKALIFESTYLE Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 Lake Minnetonka Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Lake Minnetonka area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect

Visit our Instagram CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/LAKEMINNETONKA

L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Lake Minnetonka Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

S I M P LY T H E B E S T

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inside the issue SE PTE M B E R 2 02 6 | STYL E

16 Featured

22 30

Print Prestige Meets Digital Power.

WHY CHOOSE BETWEEN PRESTIGE AND PLACEMENT?

Departments

Look Better, Feel Better

18|8 Salon knows a great haircut changes more than your hair

104 Years of Treasure Hunting

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Business Monthly

Hair Care BEAUTY

Inspired By STYLE + BEAUTY

Locally Sourced LIFE + CULTURE

Outdoor Living AUTO + MARINE

Inside the Wayzata Community Rummage Sale, a century-old tradition supporting local charities

Fashion Forward STYLE + BEAUTY

Trend Setter STYLE + BEAUTY

Happy Hour FOOD + BEVERAGE

Before the Docks Come Out

Expert Help HOME + DESIGN

Events

Culinary Creations FOOD + BEVERAGE

Fineline Lakeshore Service shares expert advice on fall dock removal, winter maintenance, and spring prep

On the Cover We sit down with Dale Johnson, owner of Environmental Landforms, to get his expert advice on which fall landscaping projects every homeowner should be doing to keep their outdoor spaces healthy through winter and looking their best come spring.

With City Lifestyle’s co-branded print + digital packages, your business captures attention wherever our community is looking. Build unmatched local credibility on the page, and drive immediate action online. Ready to double your local reach? Contact your local publisher by scanning below.

SEPTEMBER 2026

city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

7 6

1-7: It was an eventful weekend at the Spirit of the Lakes Festival with live music, live pro wrestling, delicious food trucks, and the Lake Minnetonka Wakesurf Open, all wrapping up with a fantastic fireworks display. Photography by Colin McDougall

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SEPTEMBER 2026

business monthly A R O U N D U P O F N E W S F R O M LO C A L B U S I N E S S E S

Twin Cities Closet Company Takes Home the Gold Congratulations to Twin Cities Closet Company on receiving the Gold Award for the Mpls.St.Paul Magazine's Best of the Twin Cities: 2026 Readers’ Poll for Custom Closets! Celebrating their 25th anniversary this year, Twin Cities Closet Company is a local, family-owned, and independent business, creating beautiful custom closets and design storage solutions. "We’re humbled by the love shown to us by our community: our clients, industry partners, family, friends, and team. Thank you all for your love and support!" —Twin Cities Closet Company

Scan to read more Photography by Twin Cities Closet Company

SANCTUM Fitness Grand Opening SANCTUM Fitness celebrated its opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony this summer. This private, members-only boutique gym at 5651 Manitou Road in Shorewood was created by owner McKenzie Carr, who wanted to design a welcoming space for focused, independent strength training in a secure, luxury environment. With 24/7 member access, it’s the perfect place for those looking for a premium, distraction-free workout experience. Visit sanctum.fitness to learn more and apply to be a member.

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Gardner & Co. Salon Comes to Excelsior Congratulations to Gardner & Co. Salon on their new location in Excelsior! "Being part of the community in Excelsior means so much to us because many of our existing clients already live locally. It feels like coming home in a sense. We’re looking forward to meeting new people and getting involved in local events, and we love being in an area that is so walkable where we can see familiar faces on the street." –Gardner & Co. Team

Scan to read more Photography by Gardner & Co. Salon

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S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/L A K E M I N N E TO N KA

HOW ANDREW HULSE AND 18|8 WAYZATA BUILT A SALON AROUND ONE SIMPLE IDEA: A GREAT HAIRCUT CHANGES MORE THAN YOUR HAIR

ARTICLE BY HALEY ASANOVICH | PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMILY JOHN PHOTOGRAPHY

LOOK BETTER,

FEEL BETTER Walk into 18|8 Fine Men’s Salon in the Promenade of Wayzata, next to The Hotel Landing, and you won’t find the fast, in-and-out haircut model a lot of guys grew up with. Owner Andrew Hulse built the business around a longer appointment, a real consultation, and a stylist who actually knows your hair. Nine years into serving the Wayzata community, that approach has made 18|8 one of the go-to names in men’s grooming on the lake.

H AIR CA R E | BEAUTY

“COSMETOLOGY SCHOOL PRIMARILY TEACHES WOMEN’S HAIR, AND THEN THE Y SPEND SIGNIFICANTLY LESS TIME ON MEN’S HAIR. A LOT OF COSMETOLOGISTS DON’T NECESSARILY T HINK OF MEN’S H A IR A S A C A R EER.” THE BEST HAIRCUT OF HIS LIFE

Before hair was ever part of the plan, Andrew was running organizations with revenue in the hundreds of millions, and burning out on corporate America. He started looking for a franchise that would let him step off the grind, working through a long list of business models that sparked his interest. Hair salons, he admits, weren’t anywhere near the top. “I’ll be honest, hair salons were on about page three of my list,” Andrew says. He then flew out to the original 18|8 store in

California and got a haircut from a trained stylist. “It was the best haircut I’d ever had in my life.” While 18|8 is no longer a franchise, that single appointment changed his perspective on men’s grooming. Andrew started digging into the industry and found that nearly a third of men were going to women’s salons just trying to get a decent cut. There was a real gap in the market. He just didn’t know if it would translate from California to Minnesota. Twelve years and two successful locations later, it clearly did. CONTINUED >

S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/L A K E M I N N E TO N KA

A SKILL THEY DON’T REALLY TEACH IN COSMETOLOGY SCHOOL

Ask Andrew why great men’s stylists are so hard to find, and he’ll tell you it starts in school. “Cosmetology school primarily teaches women’s hair, and then they spend significantly less time on men’s hair,” he explains. “A lot of cosmetologists don’t necessarily think of men’s hair as a career, because of how much time they spend on women’s hair in school.” It also comes down to burnout. A lot of men’s cuts run on a high-volume, get-them-out-fast model, which wears stylists down over time. Andrew built 18|8 to run the opposite way: longer appointments, set schedules, and fewer hours per stylist per week. It’s part of why several of his stylists have been with him for a decade.

THE CUT THAT GROWS OUT RIGHT

The technique matters just as much as the schedule. Most salons cut with clipper guards, which follow the shape of a man’s head. At 18|8, stylists use a clipper-over-comb technique instead, working with the shape of the head rather than just tracing it. “Our haircuts will last longer and look personalized to you,” Andrew says. “Yes, you may be paying a higher price, but your haircut’s going to look better for a longer period of time.”

H AIR CA R E | BEAUTY

“OUR HAIRCUTS WILL LAST LONGER AND LOOK PERSONALIZED T O YOU.”

The same philosophy applies to color. Grey blending, 18|8’s most popular color service, takes about 30 minutes and fades naturally over four to six weeks, a fraction of the time of a traditional coloring appointment. Andrew notices more and more guys in their 30s asking for it these days. “You can get grey hair at almost any age,” he says. “A lot of guys aren’t ready for that yet.”

WHAT’S TRENDING ON THE LAKE

Andrew’s watching a shift right now. After years of tight fades dominating, hair is trending a little longer again, part of a cycle he’s seen come and go over the years. Beards have held steady for about six years running. And the Wayzata clientele itself is anything but one type of guy: students, professionals, and retirees all walk through the door looking for the same thing, a cut that makes them feel like themselves. Andrew still thinks about one client in particular: a mom who brought her son in right before he left for college. He’d had the same haircut since freshman year of high school. An hour later, he looked like a completely different person, more grown up, more confident. “The mom grabbed the stylist and hugged her, and was just in tears,” Andrew remembers. “When you’ve got a good haircut, you look better, you feel better, and you perform better.”

BEFORE YOU BOOK

First time in? Andrew recommends booking the New Client Executive Cut, which builds in extra time for a real consultation. And don’t hold back in the chair. “It’s okay to ask questions,” he says. “Use that consultation time to come up with something you both understand is what you’re looking for.” Nine years into Wayzata, Andrew still credits the community for the salon’s success. “We’ve just had a wonderful experience here, and we really appreciate the support this community has given us over the years.” eighteeneight.com/wayzata-mn

S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/L A K E M I N N E TO N KA

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S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/L A K E M I N N E TO N KA

104 Years of Treasure Hunting As we “Baby-Boomers” find ourselves reminiscing about stories from our past, I personally have learned to accept my son Miles’ initial response, “Oh, is this going to be another backin-the-day story, Mom?” Well, here goes Miles and all of those reading this story at this moment. Way, way, way “back in the day,” the 16th century to be exact, sailors would stow and arrange cargo in the ship’s hold initially to make more room for other things. Once the ships reached the port, any unclaimed, surplus, or slightly damaged cargo was sold off at a discount directly on the wharf, becoming known as a “romage sale.” The spelling of this “practical and beneficial” event evolved by the 1800s to “rummage sale,” and soon thereafter, churches and charities began using “rummage sales” to raise funds by selling donated, second-hand household goods to the public. Fast forward to the 21st century, and you may be surprised to learn that just down the street from the shores of beautiful Lake Minnetonka sits the single most successful rummage sale! This sale, which has been hosted by the Wayzata Community Church located at 125 Wayzata Blvd, Wayzata, for the past 104 years, grossed $200,000 in 2025! This year’s event just may prove to be even more successful than ever.

Inside the Wayzata Community Rummage Sale that’s raised funds for local charities for more than a century. ARTICLE BY REBECCA A. HAHN

I NSP IR E D BY | STYL E + B E AU T Y

With 300-400 volunteers gathering, sorting and manning the 23 departments, co-directors Bill and Barb Boulware have been running a tight but fun ship for the past twenty years. “The quality of the items is well above average and is displayed in approximately 100,000 square feet,” says Bill. He continued, “We have seen interest grow significantly amongst teenage volunteers and college-aged shoppers. This year we had approximately 25-40 teens volunteering. Boys seem to want to man the electronics department while many of our teenage girls enjoy helping in the clothing, jewelry, and accessories department. After ten hours of volunteering each year, our helpers are rewarded by being able to shop for themselves one day prior to the doors opening to the public.” During this interview, I learned something about the high schools in our area. When I asked why the Boulwares thought that interest amongst teens had grown significantly, they said, “Most of the high schools in the western burbs make it mandatory that prior to graduation each graduate must have performed 20 hours of volunteer work within a community.” How cool is that? After all, as adults we look to our schools for teaching our children not only academics, but good sportsmanship and good behavior gained by getting along with their classmates. Now we can thank our schools for initiating a program that teaches our kids a greater sense of being a better humanitarian for their future endeavors. Clearly a “win-win” scenario.

June is typically the month when most of the gathering of items begins. The public is invited to donate items and to participate as volunteers whether they are members of Wayzata Community Church or not. Once the two-day sale, which is held in the middle of July, is over, I wondered what happens to everything that didn’t sell? “We have a list of organizations and charities in the immediate area that we contact to schedule a time for them to come in and take whatever they want or need over a period of ten days,” says Bill. This system is just another way that the Wayzata Community Rummage Sale is so beneficial to so many Minnesotans. When it comes to deciding which charities will directly benefit from the net sales of the rummage sale, that’s a task for the church’s Mission and Outreach Board Committee to decide how the funds are to be funneled each year. If you are not a fan of crowds, you may not want to shop at next year’s extravaganza. However, if you like the feeling of a festival-like environment where you can’t help but see hundreds of smiles from volunteers and shoppers, this event is so worth it. Sure, there won’t be games to play or rides to experience, but your dollars spent can be your way of “paying it forward.” So, “Aye aye Captain, full speed ahead, and I’ll see you next year at the Wayzata Community Rummage sale! wayzatacommunitychurch.org/seasonal/rummage-sale

S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/L A K E M I N N E TO N KA

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S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/L A K E M I N N E TO N KA

TENNIS ANYONE?

This column is about shoes. It is September, and September is THE month for new shoes. Be still my heart (and feet). September always and will always make me think about back-to-school. I feel the year resets in September rather than January. Back to structure.

Fresh pencils. Does anyone use pencils now? New clothes. A paper planner. New shoes. NEW SHOES. It almost made it worth going back to school so I could saunter around showing off my fresh shoes. Back in the day (meaning any time before 2010), kids would wear whatever shoes were available until they were a loose collection of holes. It wasn’t illegal to ask for

Life Min

LOCA LLY SOU R CE D | L I F E + CU LT U RE

new shoes August 5th, but it may as well have been. New tennis shoes were a big part of the back-to-school shopping list. No tennis playing necessary. I could not love this tradition more. I have a September birthday, and back-to-school and birthday gifts were often rolled into one joyous shopping excursion. First day of school outfit. Photo day outfit. Possibility of talking mom into a few extras. We purchased the next size of things I had outgrown. Outgrowing things is just not the same thrill now. Occasionally, shopping trips included my maternal grandmother, who allowed me the decadent luxury of wearing the new shoe purchase straight out of the store. Now, collectively we wait for nearly nothing. It makes me kind of sad. The churn of fast fashion and faster trends makes it nearly impossible to delay gratification, but we have sacrificed the joy of anticipation. We no longer even need to leave the couch to purchase a

nded

brand new wardrobe. Look. Click. Ship. If in-person shopping had tapped into a primal hunting/ gathering instinct, online shopping has killed it. In 1988, I was back-to-school shopping with my mom at Calhoun Square in Minneapolis. It was shopping paradise. Benetton. Hollywood High. Mainstreet Outfitters. And a shoe store called Josefs. They had beautiful shoes and accessories. Fancy things. Grown-up things. It was a cool and gritty energy there in the 80s. And I was merely window shopping until I found my dream shoes. Black suede loafers with green jewels at the toe. Much to my surprise, my mom bought them for me. She recognized love at first sight. It was a very special “back-to-school” purchase. They were $76. In 1988. Think about that for a moment. In today’s dollars, that would be $215.29. Inarguably a luxury purchase for a high school junior no matter the year. To say the shoes felt magical is an understatement. I wore

those with my black stirrup pants and Benetton sweater and felt like a legit celebrity. I even went so far as to always wear them on Fridays so my classmates would remember my fabulousness over the weekend. It was not until much later that I learned nobody was paying attention to me in high school because we were all so consumed paying attention to ourselves. My youngest child is a high school senior this year. It’s the last classic “back-to-school” moment for our household. He doesn’t want shoes. He says he doesn’t care. His white tennis shoes are currently grey. I don’t love it. Plus, school starts early this year. It will be sandal season for a while. He will wear his cheap flip-flops until they fall off, I guess, and we will just get shoes as needed. Boring. As for me, September 1st, I’m heading out for some new kicks. For myself. Might get myself some new pens too. Back-to-school shopping never goes out of style.

COLUMN BY JEN FORTNER 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. S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/L A K E M I N N E TO N KA

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ARTICLE BY GRAHAM JOHNSON

The team at Fineline Lakeshore Service shares their expert advice for dock removal, off-season maintenance, and preparing for next spring.

What Every Lake Homeowner Needs to Know Before the Docks Come Out 30

O UT D OOR LIV IN G | AUTO + MARIN E

October is the busy season for taking down docks, with crews eventually having a long list of customers’ docks that need to be taken in before the first winter snows. “Your name gets put on the list, and we get to you when we come around the lake,” usually within 1-2 weeks, says Jesse. ”We make our way around the lake, pulling out docks along the way.” Jesse recommends scheduling a dock removal “as early as possible.” In August and September, Fineline’s barge teams can be at your dock in a matter of days. These early removals have become more popular in recent years due to the regular end-ofsummer drought that can quickly drop the water level of Lake Minnetonka. During the pandemic, however, many families worked to prolong the boating season even if just by a few weeks by extending docks due to lower water levels. “With Covid, all people could do was use their boat,” says Jesse. Before scheduling with Fineline, however, several things have to be done to prepare the dock to be taken down. “Of course the boat goes first,” explains Jesse. Boats must be stored before Fineline comes to remove the dock. CONTINUED >

The last thing a boat owner wants to see at the end of the season is their boat stranded on its lift. At the end of each summer, Lake Minnetonka’s water level can drop dramatically, leaving boats unable to be taken off their lifts. It is an all-too-common sight for brothers Dan and Jesse Johnson, co-owners of Fineline Lakeshore Service. Dan and Jesse’s work with Fineline seeks to make the process of putting in and taking out your dock as easy as possible to avoid that terrible fate. The process of taking down docks can be “very labor intensive,” says Jesse. Fineline uses two barge crews to remove, store, and set up docks. The first crew takes in accessories like canopies and boat lifts, while the second then takes the dock itself. Fineline’s barge crews work throughout the fall, taking in docks and storing them on customers’ shorelines over the winter before reversing the process come spring. “It takes more time to install a dock than Fall removal. Spring is more of a rush. Fall is more relaxed,” says Jesse about this perennial cadence. While boaters are impatient to get their docks installed at the beginning of the season, the fall doesn’t come with that same sense of urgency. Outside of October, that is. S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/L A K E M I N N E TO N KA

“A PARTICULAR BLIND SPOT IS THE UNDERSIDE OF DOCK DECKING. WHILE A BOATER MIGHT TROMP OVER THE TOP OF A DOCK ALL SUMMER, “WE GET TO SEE THE UNDERSIDE OF THE DOCK SECTION WHICH SHOWS A LOT,” SAYS JESSE.

O UT D OOR LIV IN G | AUTO + MARIN E

After that point, ensuring that the lifejackets, coolers, and whatever else has been left out on the dock all season gets put away so that Fineline crews don’t have to move it while dismantling the dock. As Fineline’s barge teams break down docks, they make note of rot, malfunction, and other issues that owners might not be aware of. A particular blind spot is the underside of dock decking. While a boater might tromp over the top of a dock all summer, “We get to see the underside of the dock section which shows a lot,” says Jesse. Jesse sees the winter as an opportunity for repair, replacement, and upgrade during the off-season so that boaters don’t have to miss a single hour of summer sunlight. Common upgrades over the winter include new decking, complete new dock system, new boathouse frame, and replacing worn-out canopies. “These are all great things to order over the winter so everything is ready for spring install,” advises Jesse. A popular upgrade Fineline has seen over the past few years is the boathouse canopy that covers your slip, stopping rain and hail from falling onto the boat. A nice benefit beyond the increased protection is that the canopy then stabilizes that dock. “It really stiffens up the dock. There’s no wobble after it’s installed, as it connects both sides of the dock slip.” Another popular shift is to replace wooden decking with plastic like the brands PolyDeck and ThruFlow. While dock frames are usually galvanized steel and last a lifetime, decking, especially wood decking, has to be replaced regularly, which has led some to move away from the material. So whether it’s upgrading the boat lift to accommodate a bigger boat, replacing your dock’s long-ignored decking, or simply changing the color of your canopy, Fineline Lakeshore Service seeks to make the process of putting in and taking out your dock as easy as possible, no matter the season. finelinedocks.com

FALL DOCK REMOVAL CHECKLIST:

• Schedule your dock removal early • Take boat out of water and place into storage for the season • Clear dock of any items, including lifejackets, coolers, water toys, etc. • Check for needed dock repairs, replacements, or upgrades over winter • Fineline barge teams come to break down docks • Schedule your dock installation as ice out approaches for spring!!

S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/L A K E M I N N E TO N KA

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The West Metro’s premier art tour returns September 19-20, 2026. It’s back! Studio West is the Twin Cities’ art tour that is your chance to meet some of the area’s finest artists in their studios and at Hopkins Center for the Arts. You can check out their beautiful work and even drive home with an original piece of art, fiber, jewelry, ceramics, textiles and more. Studio West is free and is held at eight locations, many in Hopkins and the rest just a short drive away in the western metro. You won’t want to miss it! For more information and to see the map of locations, scan this code:

This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a Minnesota State Arts Board Operating Support grant, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.

HopkinsArtsCenter.com

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMMALEE RATHSAM

MORE THAN

a Bag

A BLEND OF FASHION AND FUNCTION 36

FASH ION F OR WA R D | STYLE + BE AU T Y

A purse does more than hold your phone, keys, and wallet. It quietly pulls an outfit together while also handling the practical side of everyday life. That balance between fashion and function is what makes a great purse feel less like an accessory and more like part of a personal style. Some bags are designed to stand out. A bold color, metallic detail, or structured shape can instantly become the statement piece of an outfit. Even with simple jeans and a white T-shirt, the right purse adds personality and intention. Other times, a purse works best when it blends in. Neutral tones, soft leather, or minimalist designs create a polished look without stealing attention from the rest of the outfit. These subtle bags are often the ones people reach for every day because they work with almost everything. CONTINUED >

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Of course, style only goes so far if a purse is impractical. The best bags are the ones that fit real life. A roomy tote helps someone move from work meetings to errands without missing a beat. Even a small clutch has a purpose for evenings out when only the essentials matter. Fashion trends may change every season, but the role of a purse stays the same. It adapts while still serving a purpose. That’s why people often invest in bags they truly love. A good purse is dependable, but it also can make a fashion statement. In many ways, a purse is one of the few accessories that people use every single day. It carries necessities, reflects personal style, and can completely change the tone of an outfit. Whether bold and eye-catching or simple and understated, a purse proves that fashion and function can exist beautifully together.

FASHION TRENDS MAY CHANGE EVERY SEASON, BUT THE ROLE OF A PURSE STAYS THE SAME. 38

FASH ION F OR WA R D | STYLE + BE AU T Y

WHAT TO PAIR

WITH YOUR PURSE? Photo courtesy of Z Supply

Sets & wide-leg pants are taking over this season’s trends Fashion in 2026 is all about ease, elegance, and intentional dressing — and no trends embody this better than coordinated sets and wide-leg pants. Together, they define the year’s fall look: streamlined silhouettes, balanced proportions, and outfits that look styled even when they’re effortless.

WHY MATCHING SETS ARE EVERYWHERE

Matching sets, whether knit, linen, tailored, or athleisure, have surged because they solve the biggest modern wardrobe problem: decision fatigue. “So many times, our customers ask, ‘What do I wear with this?’” says Debbie Slusar, owner of Amore & Fede. “A set is a ready-made outfit that looks cohesive, expensive, and intentional. No need to figure out a separate apparel item to wear with all the pants. Dress them up for a more polished look, or dress them down for a casual feel!”

WHAT’S TRENDING IN SETS

• Tailored blazer-and-trouser sets — Quiet luxury staples that photograph beautifully and transition from office to evening. • Knit sets — Ribbed tanks with matching skirts or pants, ideal for minimalists. • Athleisure sets — Elevated loungewear that still feels polished.

WHY THEY WORK

Sets create a unified silhouette and eliminate guesswork. They also pair easily with wide-leg trousers, cropped tops, or oversized blazers, making them one of the most versatile trends of the year. As they have been for a few years now, and they are not going away anytime soon. Debbie has seen the trend for sets surge, and says they almost always immediately sell out. The fall sets are timeless, classic, and comfortable. Matching sets prove that looking put together doesn’t have to be complicated. With timeless silhouettes, effortless versatility, and endless styling possibilities, they’re a trend that’ll likely stay in your wardrobe long after this fall season.

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This September, self-care gives back. Golden Apple Glow Facial Orchard Spice Scalp Melt Throughout September, 10% of the proceeds from every Golden Apple Glow Facial and Orchard Spice Scalp Melt will support Crescent Cove, which provides respite and end-oflife care for children, young adults, and their families.

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763.316.1500 | minnetonkamn.spaviadayspa.com S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/L A K E M I N N E TO N KA

ARTICLE BY STACY LEACH PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Wear Colors That Truly

LOVE YOU A quick guide to finding flattering shades for life.

KNOW YOUR UNDERTONE Your undertone doesn’t change with the seasons. Check your wrist veins: blue means cool, green means warm, and unclear may be neutral. Cool tones love jewel colors; warm tones glow in earthy, rich shades.

CONSIDER CONTRAST Do you have high contrast between your hair, skin, and eyes (like dark hair and light skin)? High contrast looks great in bold, clear colors. Low contrast (like blonde hair and fair skin)? Softer, blended tones often suit you best.

THE WHITE VS. CREAM TEST Hold a white and ivory shirt near your face. If white flatters, you're likely cooltoned. If ivory glows against your skin, you're likely warm-toned. This quick test reveals your undertone with ease.

BUILD AROUND YOUR “WOW” COLORS Once you identify a few colors that make you look and feel amazing, use those as the base of your palette. These are your power colors—build your wardrobe and makeup around them!

PRO TIP You don’t have to follow rules perfectly. Your color palette is a guide, not a limit. Mix, match, and most importantly—wear what makes you feel beautiful.

T R E N D SE T T E R | STYL E + BE AU T Y

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A LATE SUMMER/EARLY FALL TREAT

APPLE CIDER

sangria

H AP PY H OU R | FO O D + BE VE RAGE

As the season transitions into fall, it still features the warm, sunny days of summer but nights start to drop into the crisp temperatures. That leaves us in the limbo of wanting cool, refreshing drinks part of the time but also craving the deeper, spice-infused flavors of autumn. This recipe for apple cider sangria is the perfect blending of the seasons, leaving you feeling both refreshed and warmed through the deep flavors and interesting hints of spice. It’s a great drink to add to any dinner party, cocktail gathering, back deck after-hours get-together, or birthday bash. Here’s what you need to make the perfect mid-season cocktail to enhance whatever event you have planned.

ARTICLE BY ALLISON BANKSTON | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

INGREDIENTS:

DIRECTIONS:

• • • • • •

Combine all ingredients together and stir. Refrigerate for an hour or so (or longer) before serving. The drink can be enjoyed immediately, if desired, but the longer you let the ingredients sit and mix, the deeper the flavors will be. Giving it time to develop will make the drink more captivating and interesting.

1 bottle, standard size, of pinot grigio 2 1/2 cups fresh apple cider 1 cup club soda 1/2 cup ginger brandy 3 honey crisp apples, chopped 3 pears, chopped

NOTE: Regular brandy can be used, but ginger brandy gives it an extra kick of flavor.

S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/L A K E M I N N E TO N KA

Looking to Buy, Sell or Build a Home? WE WOULD LOVE TO HELP Featured Properties

710 Shadyview Lane N | Plymouth 4 Bed/5 Bath | $1,995,000

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324 Hampton St | Minnetrista 4 Bed/3 Bath | $3,100,000

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Beth Ulrich - 612-964-7184 Chelsey Danielson - 612-327-1193 UlrichRealEstateGroup.com

Realty Report A SAMPLE OF RECENTLY SOLD PROPERTIES IN LAKE MINNETONKA ADDRESS

YEAR BUILT

SOLD PRICE

BDRMS

BATHS

TOTAL FSF

LISTING BROKER

4940 Meadville Street

1995

$4,775,000

5,963 sqft

Keller Williams Premier Realty

215 W Point Road

1922

$2,640,000

3,019 sqft

Coldwell Banker Realty

5080 Meadville Street

1915

$3,425,000

2,393 sqft

Coldwell Banker Realty

245 Lakeview Ave

2019

$3,000,000

3,190 sqft

Coldwell Banker Realty

4400 Shady Lane

1985

$790,000

3,130 sqft

Compass

2634 Crosby Road

2017

$6,606,000

7,386 sqft

Trenary Realty Group

175 Lakeview Ave

2022

$1,915,000

2,167 sqft

Coldwell Banker Realty

6425 Virginia Drive

1990

$4,235,000

6,105 sqft

Coldwell Banker Realty

3734 Woodland Cove Pkwy

2023

$3,600,000

7,005 sqft

Compass

3895 Bayside Road

1971

$1,746,000

3,317 sqft

Edina Realty, Inc.

6365 Virginia Drive

1985

$1,155,000

4,782 sqft

Keller Williams Realty Integrity

2665 Casco Point Road

2018

$2,800,000

4,046 sqft

Edina Realty, Inc.

3 Crescent Street

1980

$1,805,000

4,059 sqft

Redfin Corporation

2006 Shorewood Lane

2025

$2,215,000

3,826 sqft

Coldwell Banker Realty

405 Carpenters Point

2014

$2,875,000

4,385 sqft

Compass

3337 Warner Lane

1977

$1,525,000

2,903 sqft

Coldwell Banker Realty

4580 W Arm Road

1920

$1,315,000

2,750 sqft

Edina Realty, Inc.

4372 Channel Road

1975

$1,270,000

2,750 sqft

Coldwell Banker Realty

3040 Northview Road

1906

$2,643,000

3,704 sqft

Edina Realty, Inc.

3290 Williams Lane

1989

$770,000

2,264 sqft

Keller Williams Realty Integrity

2700 Stone Arch Road

2010

$7,200,000

6,781 sqft

Coldwell Banker Realty

This data is a sampling of sold properties from July. Source: IRES MLS system.

Reach out to us today if you’d like to chat about your next real estate move! Beth Ulrich - 612-964-7184 Chelsey Danielson - 612-327-1193 UlrichRealEstateGroup.com

Environmental Landforms owner Dale Johnson shares the simple seasonal tasks that help create a healthier, more beautiful yard next spring

THE SECRET TO A BETTER YARD THIS SPRING? START THIS FALL. ARTICLE BY LAUREN BEAUBAIRE As we move into the fall season, it’s tempting to push off landscaping until next spring. But don’t put away the garden tools just yet. We sat down with Dale Johnson, owner of Environmental Landforms, to get his expert advice on which fall landscaping projects every homeowner should be doing to keep their outdoor spaces healthy through winter and looking their best come spring.

June or July. Once their flowers die off, lilacs start to create next year’s buds soon after, and if you wait to trim until fall or winter, you will actually be cutting off future flowers. For hardscapes like paver patios, the biggest problem I see is when the sand or polymer isn’t maintained. Ants can get in and start mining, damaging the patio. The best thing to do is fill the voids with some granite or polymeric sand in the pavers to protect it.

WHAT ARE THE MOST IMPORTANT LANDSCAPING TASKS EVERY HOMEOWNER SHOULD TACKLE BEFORE WINTER TO SET THEMSELVES UP FOR A BEAUTIFUL SPRING?

WHAT IS ONE MISTAKE YOU SEE HOMEOWNERS MAKE?

One of the best things you can do before winter is to water everything really well. Keep up with the water before the first frost. As we know, we have pretty rough winters. And if there’s a lack of snow cover and harsh temperatures, the ground can get very dry, so ensuring your trees and shrubs have been watered as much as possible will help them through the winter into spring. Aside from watering, fertilizing and pruning will also ensure your greenery comes back healthy in the spring. Knowing the kinds of shrubs, bushes, and trees in your yard and when to trim them throughout the year will ensure they keep flowering and growing each year. Lilac bushes, for instance, flower earlier in

EXP E RT H E LP | HO M E + D E SIGN

Not protecting your landscaping from animals. Protect your trees and shrubs from the bunnies and deer by putting cages or tree wrap around them. Otherwise, you’ll find animals can do a number on your shrubs and chew them down to nothing. Bachman’s is a great resource to learn the plants animals love and the ones they’ll leave alone, which can save you a lot of work and stress. Becoming knowledgeable about the landscaping in your yard is one of the best ways to keep them healthy. So, before winter settles in, take the time to give your landscaping a little extra care. With Dale’s tips, your trees, shrubs, and outdoor spaces will thank you with a healthier, more beautiful start to spring. environmentallandforms.com

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SEPTEMBER 2026

THE LAKES TEAM

$900M 2,955

TEAM SALES TEAM TRANSACTIONS

events A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LO C A L E V E N T S

SEPTEMBER 1ST

Minnetonka Farmers Market The Marsh, 15000 Minnetonka Blvd. 2:00 PM Knock out your weekly grocery list every Tuesday from 2-6pm at the Minnetonka Farmers Market. Find locally handmade crafts, produce, and farm products, including fresh eggs, meats, breads, vegetables, fruits, flowers, pickles, jams, and dinner-to-go from local chefs. Plus, enjoy live music, community booths, and free kids' activities each week! The market runs every Tuesday through September 29th. SEPTEMBER 11TH-13TH

James J. Hill Days Downtown Wayzata | 5:00 PM Lake Minnetonka's largest festival kicks off Friday, September 11th, with the Rails & Ales Craft Beer Festival, Lake Minnetonka Carnival, street market, live music, and more! Weekend events continue Saturday with Dachshund Races and Doggy Olympics, logrolling, and Coaster Cart Derby, while on Sunday, you won't want to miss the T-6 Thunder Airshow and parade. See the full schedule: jamesjhilldays. wayzatawestmetrochamber.com SEPTEMBER 18TH

LOCAL EXPERTISE. PROVEN RESULTS. CHRIS DENNIS, REALTOR®

Team Lead - The Lakes Team 37 Water Street, Excelsior, 55331 (612) 229-9322 | chris.dennis@compass.com www.lakes-team.com

EVE N TS

Green Wealth Management Understanding Wealth Series Green Wealth Management Office, 701 Lake St. E, Suite 200, Wayzata 8:00 AM Sean Wenham, Senior Wealth Advisor with Green Wealth Management Group, is back this month with the next seminar in Green Wealth's year-long "Understanding Wealth" educational series. The series is designed to help you make thoughtful

Excelsior Apple Days Water Street, Downtown Excelsior 5:00 PM Excelsior Apple Days kicks off at 5pm on Friday, September 18, celebrating community, art, locally produced food, and enjoying a good old-fashioned street dance. Going through Sunday, September 20, the weekend is packed with events, including pie-baking contests, craft booths, the Happy Apple Kids Corner, history tours, live entertainment, the popular beer and wine garden, and more! S E P T E M BE R 1 9 T H- 2 0TH

Studio West Art Tour Hopkins Center for the Arts and West Metro | 10:00 AM Studio West is back! This annual West Metro open studio tour connects artists and audiences across the area. This self-guided tour is your chance to meet and greet some great local artists, check out their work and studio, and go home with an original piece of art, pottery, or textiles. Pick up your tour map and get more information at Hopkins Center for the Arts. hopkinsartscenter. com/301/Studio-West-Art-Tour S E P T E M BE R 2 5T H- 2 7 TH

Our Lady of the Lake Incredible Festival Lady of the Lake Parish, 2385 Commerce Blvd, Mound | 5:00 PM Come out for the 47th annual Our Lady of the Lake Incredible Festival! And this festival lives up to its name. Enjoy food, a silent auction, carnival rides and games, a beer tent, bingo, and more. Purchase an unlimited ride wristband and food/game tickets in the church office before you head into the festival. Get more details on their website: incrediblefestival.com

Susan Stiles CFP , CHFC , AIF , CPFA , MBA Founder / CEO Stiles Financial Services, Inc. ®

“ Dear Susan: How do I find a financial advisor whose style is right for me?

“

S E P T E M BE R 1 8T H- 2 0TH

“ Ask Susan

“

decisions with greater confidence and provide practical education around the financial topics that matter most. This month's topic is: Philanthropy. Register at greenwmg.com/understanding-wealth

Susan: There isn’t one ‘best’ financial advisor—there’s only the

one that’s the best fit for you. And that fit has everything to do with style. Start by asking yourself what you’re really looking for. Do you simply want someone to manage your investments, or are you looking for a trusted partner who can help with retirement planning, taxes, estate planning, charitable giving, and other important financial decisions throughout your life? Beyond the services, consider the advisor’s approach. The right advisor doesn’t impose a style—they adapt to yours. They take time to understand your specific complexity and build a plan that reflects who you are. Snap the QR code for my follow-up video discussing how to evaluate a financial advisor, the different types of firms, and the key questions to ask before choosing someone to guide your financial future. To talk to Susan and her team, reach out at AskSusan@StilesFinancial.com Stiles Financial Services; an independent, fee-based, private wealth management financial advisory firm, specializing in families that have complex portfolio, wealth management and estate planning needs. We also advise companies on their retirement benefit plans and corporate cash management.

www.stilesfinancial.com

952.988.0452

Stiles Financial Services is a Registered Investment Advisor in MN. Information presented is for educational purposes only and does not intend to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any specific securities, investments, or investment strategies. Investments involve risk and, unless otherwise stated, are not guaranteed. Be sure to first consult with a qualified financial advisor and/ or tax professional before implementing any strategy discussed herein. Past performance is not indicative of future performance.

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T H E

P E R F E C T

F A L L

T R E A T

ACORN DONUT HOLES ARTICLE BY MADELINE LEBLANC As the vibrant colors of summer slowly yield to the warm and earthy hues of autumn, there’s a distinct charm in the air at the arrival of fall. It’s a season filled with the crisp rustling of leaves, cozy sweaters, and the promise of pumpkin-spiced everything. What better way to embrace the changing seasons than by indulging in a delightful treat that captures the essence of both summer’s sweetness and fall’s rich flavors? My recipe for “Acorn Donut Holes” combines the light, airy sweetness of summer donuts with the warm, comforting tones of fall. Grab your ingredients and let’s get started!

Ingredients:

Instructions:

• • • •

1. Pour your fall sprinkles into a small bowl for dipping. Lay wax paper down. 2. In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt the melting chocolates in the microwave, about 15-20 seconds. Carefully watch to ensure they don’t burn. 3. Dip the top of each donut hole into the melted chocolate, covering about halfway down the donut. 4. After dipping, immediately dip the chocolate-covered portion of the donut hole into the bowl of sprinkles, coating it with the fall sprinkles. 5. Insert a pretzel into the top of the “acorn” to create the acorn stem. 6. Carefully place the decorated acorn donut holes on the wax paper to let them cool and allow the chocolate to set. 7. Once the chocolate has hardened, your acorn donut holes are ready to enjoy!

Donut holes Melting chocolates Fall sprinkles Pretzels

These delightful treats are perfect for fall and make for a fun and tasty dessert or snack. Enjoy!

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