LET'S TALK GIRLHOOD, SHINING BRIGHT, PLANTING FLOWERS AND NURTURING OTHERS
Proud to Be a Lady
Hello to the wonderful women of the Minneapolis Lakes area,
You are the mothers, friends, sisters, aunts, wives, partners, and core of our community. We thank you for all you do, and this month, we are proud to present our annual Ladies issue.
I’m lucky that the women in my life have set the bar high, and have shared much wisdom over the years. I truly understand what it takes to earn the respect and trust of those around me. I am also grateful and blessed for the strong women in my circle. To be able to laugh, cry and learn from them as we all continue to strive to be the best we can be every day, is a true gift.
There is so much goodness and talent to cover, but in this issue, we will shed some light on just a few female-owned and operated businesses. Plus, we’ve included some Mother’s Day activities we think you might enjoy.
Oftentimes, life gets hectic and it is hard to coordinate and cover all of the bases. We connected with Rachel, owner of Nurturing Nannies, and learned how her organization is helping families preserve the work and life balance.
Catching up with Kacie Riddle, founder of the Girlhood Social Club, was refreshing and fun to gain insight on community connections and positive social growth. From podcasts to events and social media, the Girlhood Social Club is rapidly becoming a bright spot in our own backyard.
In addition to spring flowers, we wanted to plant some ideas for gifting to the women in your life. New Gild, locally owned and operated by Jen and Kelsey in Linden Hills, has been providing unique, custom pieces to cherish for a lifetime. We congratulate them on celebrating their 8th anniversary!
From cooking to crafting and storytelling, celebrating with Mom is always special. Without her, we wouldn’t be here.
“Behind every great woman…is another great woman.” – Kate Hodges
Happy May Minneapolis Lakes,
May 2025
PUBLISHER
Alexandra Patty | alexandra.patty@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Sarah Knieff | sarah.knieff@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Susan Shannon | susan.shannon@citylifestyle.com
MARKET SUPPORT COORDINATOR
Kassi Miranowski | kassi.miranowski@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Mel Boban, New Gild, Lori Hawkins, Sarah Knieff
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Catherine Brinker Photography, Emily Stevens Photography, Kimberly Yang
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard
Hannah Leimkuhler
QUALITY CONTROL
ALEXANDRA PATTY, PUBLISHER @MINNEAPOLISLAKES
inside the issue
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
The Galleria Floral Experience returned for the sixth year this past March with a new exhibit, “Escape to Paradise” with installmets by Bachman’s.
Photography by Catherine Brinker Photography
Open House: Solarium Wellness Collective
Solarium Wellness Collective is hosting an open house on Saturday, May 17, 2025, to celebrate its expansion and community-focused wellness space. Guests can explore the studios, meet the locally owned small businesses, and enjoy light refreshments. The collective offers holistic beauty and wellness services, including lash and brow treatments, skincare, massage, reiki, hair services, and more. The event will also feature local vendors, showcasing handmade goods and unique offerings. For details solariumwellnesscollective.com
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 nothingbundtcakes.com.
New Gild Jewelers Celebrates 8th Anniversary
On April 26, 2025, New Gild Jewelers celebrated its 8th birthday with flair. Since 2017, this beloved establishment has been adding sparkle to the Twin Cities. The event, held at 4300 Upton Avenue South, Minneapolis, drew in many with mimosas, delectable birthday treats and exclusive merchandise. "We couldn't be more proud," the owners state. newgild.com.
ORF M STAGEDREAM S TOSOCIAL SC E SEN
ARTICLE BY SARAH KNIEFF
PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMILY STEVENS PHOTOGRAPHY
THE RISE OF GIRLHOOD SOCIAL CLUB
Kacie Riddle
“Girlhood seemed like an obvious choice for a name.”
Kacie Riddle’s journey from the theater stage to the forefront of a social movement is a testament to the power of passion and community. Growing up performing as a professional actress from seven to 15, she was no stranger to the spotlight. Yet, the trajectory of her career and life evolved in ways she never anticipated.
After a brief stint at Mankato for college, she embarked on the Disney College Program, a formative experience that planted seeds of wanderlust and independence. "Coming back home was a whirlwind," Kacie recalls. "I thought I had my path mapped out, but life had other plans." Instead of returning to a traditional college campus, she opted for Arizona State
University's online program. This choice, though practical, left her yearning for the quintessential college experiences — like rushing a sorority or going to football games— she saw her peers enjoying.
However, Kacie’s involvement in a community theater production of Legally Blonde in 2023 rekindled a dormant passion for community engagement. "It was transformative being around people who shared the same interests," she says. It was also here that friends recognized her natural conversational skills, encouraging her to start a podcast. “Girlhood seemed like an obvious choice for a name,” she reflects, citing the ubiquitous nature of the term ‘girlhood’ that summer, especially with the release of the Barbie movie.
“Even if only one girl leaves feeling like she made a new friend, that’s a victory.”
Without extensive plans but with a heart full of ambition, she launched the podcast that summer. Feedback from her budding audience of 140 listeners was overwhelmingly positive, sparking the inception of Girlhood Social Club in 2024. Inspired by listeners who expressed a desire to connect in person, she envisioned a space for women in their 20s to forge real friendships through themed monthly events.
Initially, the journey was challenging. Attendance at events was modest with mostly just her friends showing up, so she faced moments of doubt. "Someone once told me, 'even if one girl leaves feeling like she made a new friend, that’s a victory,'" she shares. This advice became her mantra. The goal was never to influence thousands but to cultivate meaningful connections — a mission that spoke to her inner child and echoed the significance of her female friendships.
The club’s turning point came in September 24’ when a TikTok video went viral, transforming her modest gatherings into vibrant events drawing up to 50 attendees. "I was astonished to suddenly have 50 strangers show up, eager to make charm necklaces in the park,” Kacie recalls with a smile. These gatherings were more than just social events; they were incubators for new friendships and joyful memories.
The pinnacle of Girlhood Social Club’s success thus far was an unforgettable
Y2K-themed Galentine’s slumber party, attended by 300 women. Kacie describes it as "the best day of my life,” despite the logistical challenges. "It was girls being girls, dancing, shopping, and sharing desserts, just pure, positive energy.”
The most profound event for her, however, was the one-year anniversary celebrated at the Minnesota History Center. The evening, set against the backdrop of the Girlhood (It’s Complicated) exhibit, was a cultural tapestry of art, music and reflection. “Girlhood, for me, is this social club where girls can express what it means to them,” Kacie explains.
Reflecting on her journey, Kacie acknowledges the complexities and joys of event planning she undertook without formal training. "Every event is funded by ticket sales and my own investment. I could never have done this without the support of friends and the community," she humbly notes.
Looking ahead, Kacie envisions Girlhood Social Club growing, with bigger events and even more opportunities for connection. "The future is bright," she says with optimism, “I have so many ideas that I can’t wait to bring to life.”
Check out Girlhood Social Club on Instagram, @girlhoodsocialclub, and its website, girlhoodsocialclub.com. Listen to the Girlhood podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
Planting Spring Flowers
Helpful tips for planting spring flowers
Sun-Loving Plants:
Spring is here! We compiled a list of flowers that - depending on your planting zone - can be planted in the season.
Plumbago
Has beautiful dark blue or white flowers on a large shrub of 3 to 5 feet. This tends to freeze down in winter and comes back from roots in the spring.
Hibiscus
The tropical variety will not survive the winters so move those pots inside. The plant can get up to 5 feet tall and there are many different colors and varieties. The perennial varieties will freeze to the ground but come back in the spring. The variety Moy Grande is known as the dinner plate hibiscus. The Texas star hibiscus has beautiful flowers in red or white.
Bougainvillea
These colorful plants can be planted in baskets and pots, not in water-logged or low areas where water might collect. They will grow best when given enough space to spread out, and should be planted in an area that will allow them a minimum of 5-6 hours of sunlight every day. Colors include orange, pink, purple, white, red, tangerine and fuschia to name a few.
Purslane
This is great in baskets for trailing leaves with lots of colors. The bees love it!
Butterfly Weed
This 3 to 4-foot bush is a must for monarch lovers. Monarchs feed on the leaves before making their cocoons. It has beautiful orange and yellow flowers.
ARTICLE BY LORI HAWKINS
Shade-Loving Plants:
Lantana
This is a great hot weather plant that comes in many colors and varieties. Trailing varieties only get about 1 foot tall but can get 3 to 4 feet wide. There are bush varieties that get 4 feet tall and dwarf bushes only get about 2 feet tall. It comes in yellows, purples, reds, oranges, pinks, fuchsia, and many others.
Gregg’s Blue Mist
This fuzzy light blue flower is a butterfly favorite.
Pentas
This is another bee and butterfly favorite that grows about 10 to 12 inches tall. There is a graffiti variety in different colors that works in beds or pots.
Vinca/Periwinkle
This plant comes in upright or trailing varieties. There are many colors to choose from: lavender, white with a red center, peach, white and red, pink to strawberry.
Sages
There are many varieties of sage. The Texas sage is a shrub that has beautiful lavender flowers - a favorite for bees. They usually bloom around the time it rains. Henry Duelberg variety is a smaller bush 18 to 20 inches tall with blue stalks of blooms. Russian Sage is a tall silver lacey foliage with light blue flower spikes and grows to 4 feet tall. Deer tend to stay away from most of the sages.
Turk’s Cap
This plant makes a large bush of red or pink flowers. It has low water needs once established and can tolerate drought conditions and hot temperatures. Prune back plant in winter if it gets too leggy.
Impatiens
These need more water than most other plants and come in many colors. They are valued for their vibrant colors, abundant blooms, and tolerance for shade.
Caladiums
With lush multicolored leaves, many larger than the palm of your hand, caladiums have become one of the most popular foliage plants for shady or semi-shady gardens—with many recent introductions being sun tolerant.
ARTICLE BY SARAH
NURTURING NANNIES
Finding reliable and compassionate childcare can be a challenging task for many families. Parents frequently find themselves torn between endless choices, wondering about the best fit for their family's unique needs.
Enter Nurturing Nannies, a boutique nanny agency based in Minnesota, dedicated to connecting families with professional caregivers who bring not just skill but genuine warmth to their roles. At the helm of this enterprise is Rachel Tepley, the visionary founder whose passion for exceptional childcare has crafted a unique and personalized approach to nanny placement.
Rachel Tepley
THE PASSION BEHIND NURTURING NANNIES
Rachel began her professional journey with a sincere love for nurturing children. With over two decades of nannying experience, she has the firsthand knowledge required to understand both the needs of the families and the commitment required from caregivers. Armed with this invaluable experience, Rachel founded Nurturing Nannies in 2022 with a clear mission. “I want to provide families with dependable, loving, and thoroughly vetted nannies who not only care for children but contribute positively to their developmental journeys,” she explains.
TAILORED CONNECTIONS FOR EVERY FAMILY
Nurturing Nannies prides itself on its personalized procedures. The agency
recognizes that each family is unique and that cookie-cutter solutions simply won't suffice when it comes to childcare. As such, Nurturing Nannies invests considerable time in understanding the dynamic and individual needs of each family. “This careful consideration guarantees a match that aligns with a family’s particular lifestyle, values, and schedule,” Rachel says.
The agency's selection process is as rigorous as it is precise. Prospective nannies undergo a detailed screening process encompassing background checks, thorough interviews, and assessments to evaluate their childcare expertise and emotional intelligence. This stringent process ensures that only the most devoted, competent, and engaging nannies become part of the Nurturing Nannies network.
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PRIORITIZING CHILD SAFETY AND DEVELOPMENT
Central to Nurturing Nannies’ ethos is the safety and well-being of the child. Rachel emphasizes this by ensuring that all nannies are certified in CPR and first-aid, and are supported with resources and opportunities to stay current in best practices. Understanding that a nanny is often a child’s third parent, the agency takes responsibility for nurturing not only the physical safety of children but their emotional and intellectual growth as well.
“I WANT TO PROVIDE FAMILIES WITH DEPENDABLE, LOVING, AND THOROUGHLY VETTED NANNIES WHO NOT ONLY CARE FOR CHILDREN BUT CONTRIBUTE POSITIVELY TO THEIR DEVELOPMENTAL JOURNEYS.”
Rachel Tepley believes in the transformative power of positive influence, understanding that the interactions and relationships children build with their nannies can impact their development for years to come.
THE LEGACY OF NURTURING NANNIES
Ultimately, Rachel Tepley’s vision for Nurturing Nannies is as much about heartfelt connection as it is about professional excellence. She understands the profound trust parents place in nannies and the pivotal role these caregivers play in the lives of children. Through her unwavering dedication to quality, safety, and personalized care, Rachel has not only met the needs of modern families but has set a new standard in childcare services.
nurturingnannies.us | 763-283-8752
ARTICLE BY NEW GILD
PRODUCT PHOTOGRAPHY BY KIMBERLY YANG
Shine Bright
NEW GILD JEWELERS SHARES THE ULTIMATE GIFT GUIDE FOR HER
In the city of Prince, who doesn't love purple? This gorgeous purple spinel is set in gleaming yellow gold with a geometric design that allows the two rings to play together in multiple ways. With diamond accents, this set is a must-see.
These dramatic earrings are made from very high-quality rose quartz, set in gold with diamond pavé accents. Their "stab-y" shape lands them firmly in our "villain vibes" collection . . . let them be part of your origin story!
Our Claudette ring features a soft and lovely combination of a champagne diamond surrounded by natural, pale pink diamonds – a true gift of nature. Imagine this 18K yellow gold ring on her hand and then imagine the look on her face. This is that ring.
Sapphire in blue is perhaps nature's truest homage to a wavelength of light, and this oval stone was our muse for a gorgeous ring in gleaming gold and diamonds. The details are extraordinary.
Dare to be different! This rustic diamond set features a fun and funky gem in yellow gold as the "question" paired with a wider, white gold band to symbolize the union itself – the "answer." Primitive diamonds are a hot trend.
Kelsey Lee-Karol a nd Jen Bellefeur
This dainty pendant invokes the lucky number four, and its refined and understated appeal make it perfect for daily wear as a signature piece. In yellow gold and pavé diamonds, it will be her favorite for years to come.
Pearls are never out of style and this gorgeous strand features Akoya pearls from the salt waters of Japan. Known for a creamy, white and lustrous finish, these pearls are clasped with a white gold and diamond safety pin that makes them fresh and in demand.
Anything pink can do, blue can do too – this blue sapphire faerie ring features our signature faerie style of tiny and delicate mixed sapphire, spinel and diamonds. In yellow gold, this one-of-akind love totem is simply beautiful.
Our pink sapphire faerie ring invokes the enchantment of magic in its delicate array of sapphire, spinel and diamonds. Set in yellow gold, this precious bauble will make her float on air and make you look like a genius gifter.
4300 Upton Ave. S | 612-402-0561 newgild.com
DIY DAY
INSPIRATION FOR A MOTHER/ DAUGHTER DIY DAY
ARTICLE BY MEL BOBAN
WITH MOM
An afternoon spent together is priceless with today’s busy schedules. Instead of going out, staying in can provide quaint, quiet one-on-one time for a mother and daughter (or multiple daughters). Finding time on calendars is the hard part, and filling that time is all fun from there. Here are a few favorite ideas for inspiration that may spark excitement for planning those special times together.
01 Charm Necklaces
Custom DIY charm necklaces and bracelets are trending. Gather a theme idea: birthstones, family initials, travels or even favorite hobbies, and procure charms from your local craft store or online shop. Selecting charms for each other also could be a fun way to bring delight to the crafting occasion. Necklaces and bracelets can be made for each other, or as future gifts for upcoming occasions such as a family wedding, a birthday milestone or an anniversary.
02 Interview Journaling
Storytelling makes for the best memories. Structure memory recall by filming or journaling interview-style question-and-answer sessions, cataloging information for future generations. Videos and notes with detailed family adventures are priceless, and we all always wish we had more of them.
03 Meal Prep
Text conversations around kitchen tips or ingredient procurement seem endless. Spend some time together in the kitchen preparing favorite family recipes, sharing Mom’s best tips and tricks. Choosing freezer-friendly meals is a great way to walk away with meals for upcoming busy days. There’s nothing like Mom’s recipes!
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MAY 3RD
Kentucky Derby Party
Schram Vineyards | 3:00 PM
Join Schram Vineyards for a day of high-spirited fun as they celebrate the most exciting two minutes in sports in true southern fashion. "Dust off your fascinators and don your dapper duds for an afternoon of sophistication and excitement," the vineyard states. "Indulge in our specially curated menu of themed cocktails and food offerings, perfectly paired to complement the fun atmosphere of the Derby." schramvineyards.com
MAY 3RD
CoComelon: Sing-A-Long LIVE
State Theatre | 2:00 PM
CoComelon Live is an exciting, live-action adaptation of the world-famous YouTube sensation! Come to dance and sing along with JJ, Nina, Cody, Cece and all of their friends. hennepinarts.org.
MAY 4TH
Minds on the Run 5K
Thomas Beach | 1:00 PM
Whether you're running, walking or cheering from the sidelines, the Minds on the Run 5k is a fun way to support the mission of empowering high-achieving, under-resourced students on their path to college success. Sign up today and be part of the movement! raceroster.com
Ask Susan
Susan Stiles CFP, CHFC, AIF, CPFA, MBA Founder / CEO Stiles Financial Services, Inc.
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 is the Founder / CEO of 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. Send “AskSusan” questions to: AskSusan@stilesfinancial.com.
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MAY 13TH - 18TH & Juliet
Orpheum Theatre
This hilarious new musical flips the script on the greatest love story ever told. & Juliet asks what would happen next if Juliet didn’t end it all over Romeo? Get whisked away on a fabulous journey as she ditches her famous ending for a fresh beginning and a second chance at life and love—her way. hennepinarts.org.
MAY 13TH
Public Tour:
Inspired by Books
Minneapolis Institute of Art | 11:30 AM
Join lively discussions of artworks related to popular books, facilitated by a museum guide. This May, Mia guides will be relating works of art in the collection to "Lady Tan's Circle of Women" by Lisa See. Tours are free and begin in the General Mills Lobby on the first floor at the Information Bar. new.artsmia.org
MAY 17TH
Fortune Feimster: Takin' Care of Biscuits
State Theatre | 7:00 PM
You can catch stand-up comedian, writer, and actor, Fortune Feimster, on the radio, on screens both big and small, and touring her stand-up across the nation. hennepinarts.org
primal perfection
Kowalski’s Certified Akaushi Beef comes from the largest purebred group of Akaushi outside of Japan. You won’t find a more tender steak. Our Certified Akaushi Beef is hand-cut and fork-tender with ribbons of creamy white marbling for a rich, buttery taste you won’t forget! A supreme steak built for the ultimate steak lover!
CERTIFIED AKAUSHI BEEF
