Thankful Issue
TIPS FOR SELLING YOUR HOME IN FALL AND WINTER
2025 GIFT GUIDE
HOSTING HACKS FOR A SIMPLER THANKSGIVING
Alexandra turned a magazine into community.
City Lifestyle isn’t just a publication — it’s a pulse. A rhythm of voices, neighbors, and stories woven together by someone who believes in the power of connection. As we expand, we’re looking for people ready to turn care into community. Are you ready to be that spark?
Minneapolis Lakes Lifestyle
Published by Alexandra
Loved by Minneapolis Lakes
Thankful For the Here and Now
November, already. I can’t speak for everyone, but I will say for myself that 2025 has been an extremely challenging year. Personally, locally and globally. There seems to be a lot of negative coming at us from all directions and we are all being affected. How do we even begin to counteract that?
One thing that I have clung to in the past few months is being thankful for and loving the here and now, appreciating the moments, both big and small. Smiles from strangers, smiling at strangers, petting the dog, sitting outside for 5 minutes on a beautiful day, planting flowers, eating with family, calling a friend, laughing at something stupid on the internet… I mean it – the smaller, the better. I want to be in these moments because I know they can be taken away instantly. I have to believe that all of the small positives are somehow going to add up to outweigh the negative.
I’ve said it before, but Minneapolis Lakes Lifestyle is intentional. It highlights local community and positive stories. We want to put a smile on your face, and we want you to live briefly in these moments of connection.
Kathryn Buckley and Sarah Balestri of Coldwell Banker offer some tips for those planning to sell in the fall or winter market. Real estate is happening all around us every day, but these two shed some good light on this particular time of year.
Grand Hand Gallery provides a community approach to showcasing fabulous artists and unique pieces. Since the season of gifting is upon us, our team asked about how to give art and things to consider when selecting something special.
City Lifestyle is kicking off its annual Giving Campaign again. Please contact us and nominate if you know someone in need. The donations are close to a million dollars per year and growing. We are trying to provide some relief nationally if we can.
The holidays are rapidly approaching and we wanted to provide a few fun ideas in case you’re getting your gift list together early.
I am not saying to view the world through rose-colored glasses, I am just asking you to keep a pair close, so you can put them on sometimes to spread kindness, and really focus on loving the here and now.
Happy Thanksgiving,
November 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
Samantha Durbin, Sarah Knieff
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Lara Leimbach Photography, Emily Merrill, Kate Munson, Andrew Vick
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Zach Miller
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
ALEXANDRA PATTY, PUBLISHER @MINNEAPOLISLAKES
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
City Lifestyle Partner Appreciation Cruise on Lake Minnetonka - September 2025.
Photography by Kate Munson
Ask Susan
Susan Stiles CFP, CHFC, AIF, CPFA, MBA Founder / CEO Stiles Financial Services, Inc.
Dear Susan: How do I shift my mindset from wealth accumulation to appreciation? Or can I achieve both?
Susan:
When we stop measuring our lives against others and start appreciating what we already have, we free ourselves from financial anxiety and can focus on what truly matters—building security, creating memories, and giving back. Gratitude turns wealth into wellbeing. It’s human nature to compare ourselves to others, especially in a world where social media and neighborhood dynamics constantly showcase what everyone else has. Even those who have worked hard and are financially comfortable can feel like they’re falling behind. In my follow-up video, I’ll discuss how to give yourself permission to enjoy your life’s hard work. How to secure your legacy through family and charitable giving, and more. Snap the QR code below, take a deep breath and smile. You’ve earned it!
You’re Invited: Yoga in the Galleries
Grab your yoga mat for a gentle, yet energizing session at The Museum of Russian Art on Nov. 1 at 9 a.m. Led by museum guide and certified yoga instructor Ramaa Bhasin, this 45-minute set takes place in an intimate, small-group setting. Each ticket includes the yoga flow as well as admission to the museum following the event. Attendees are asked to bring their own yoga mat and wear comfortable, movable clothing. Purchase tickets at tmora.org.
Now Open: Puttshack in Minneapolis
Puttshack is now open in Minneapolis, bringing a high-energy, tech-infused mini golf experience to the city! Located at 700 3rd Street N, the venue features three interactive courses, full food and drink service (yes, you can sip cocktails while you play), private event suites, and a vibrant social atmosphere. Whether for date night, a party, or a night out with friends, Puttshack offers fun, food, and friendly competition. puttshack.com.
Try Something New: Crafting Classes at Lakes Makerie
Looking to start a new hobby this season? Lakes Makerie offers a diverse lineup of hands-on crafting classes in Minneapolis, including sewing, embroidery, quilting, and open studio sessions. Instruction ranges from beginner-friendly “meet your machine” courses to garment-making, tote-sewing, and specialty workshops. Class sizes are limited and operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so early registration is encouraged. Learn more at lakesmakerie.com.
how to gift art
The Grand Hand Gallery Shares Their Expertise
Buying art for someone else can be one of the most meaningful and lasting gifts you can give. But it can also feel intimidating: What if they don’t like it? What if it doesn’t fit their space? What even counts as “art” these days?
Fortunately, the owners of The Grand Hand Gallery— Rachael Hartzler and Jim Jacobson — have spent years helping people find just the right piece of art for someone they love. We sat down with them to gather their best insights into how to choose art that’s beautiful, useful and deeply personal.
WHY GIVE ART IN THE FIRST PLACE?
Before we get into the how, let’s talk about the why.
A piece of art — even something as simple as a handmade mug or a small painting — can serve as a lasting connection between you, the person you're giving it to, and the artist who created it. Especially when the piece is locally made, as about 80% of The Grand Hand’s artists are, it becomes a story and a relationship — not just an object.
“You’re making a much more personal and unique choice,” says Jim. “You’re buying something that’s quite likely one of a kind. The person you’re giving it to is unique, and the gift should reflect that.”
Art can also become an heirloom. It's not trendy or disposable. As Jim notes, “Art doesn’t really go out of style. It’s a timeless gift.”
ARTICLE BY SARAH KNIEFF PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANDREW VICK
Step 1: Think Practically
Let’s start with the basics.
SET A BUDGET
This is the first and most important step. Art exists at nearly every price point, and The Grand Hand offers a wide range — but without a budget, it’s easy to get overwhelmed or fall in love with something far outside your range.
“When you’re giving a gift, you want to reflect the bigness of your feelings,” Jim says. “But things that feel that big are often more expensive.”
A smart strategy? Pair a smaller, meaningful piece of art with another thoughtful gift, like a special experience (a dinner, a tour, etc.). This combo can carry emotional weight without blowing your budget.
FACTOR IN SHIPPING
If the gift needs to travel, consider its size and fragility. Shipping ceramics or framed artwork can be costly and complex.
“Shipping costs sometimes surprise people,” Rachael notes. “In some cases, the shipping can cost more than the item itself.”
Thankfully, The Grand Hand has extensive experience shipping delicate items and can help ensure your gift arrives safely — but it’s something to include in your planning.
CONSIDER THEIR SPACE
Space is its own kind of budget. If you’re not sure where the person would put a piece, opt for smaller art or functional pieces.
“Almost everyone has space for a 6x6 inch painting,” says Rachael. “We have pieces as small as 3x3 inches that can fit anywhere.”
Knowing a person’s style and space can allow you to choose more boldly. But if you’re unsure, going small is the safer route.
Step 2: Make It Personal
Buying art isn’t just about the object — it’s about the story it tells. Go for Beautiful, Useful, and Meaningful. If you can hit all three, you’ve found a perfect gift. But even one or two can make a piece special.
Functional items — like a ceramic mug, a wooden serving bowl, or a handblown tumbler — are great options because the recipient can choose how to use them.
“People who entertain can serve with those pieces,” says Jim. “People who don’t, can use them decoratively.”
Vases are another versatile favorite: they don’t take up much space and work with or without fresh flowers. The Grand Hand even sells ceramic bouquets — beautiful, handmade floral arrangements that never wilt. CONTINUED
Rachael Hartzler and Jim Jacobson
THINK BEYOND THE OBVIOUS
You don’t have to give someone a painting of a sailboat just because they like sailing. Instead, consider how a piece might tie you, the recipient, and the artist together.
For example, if the recipient is from Wisconsin and you find a Minnesota-based potter who sources clay from Wisconsin — that’s a three-way connection that turns a bowl into a story.
Be Careful with Collections
If someone collects something — like lighthouses or wooden Santas — it might be tempting to add to their collection. But collections can reach a saturation point.
“Just because someone collects something doesn’t mean they want more of it,” Jim warns. “They may not have the space, or they might have gotten too many of the same thing already.”
WHAT KIND OF ART MAKES A GOOD GIFT?
The Grand Hand Gallery specializes in functional and fine art created by skilled, often local, artists. Here are some of their best giftable items:
Functional Ceramics
• Handmade mugs
• Ice cream or cereal bowls
• Serving platters and large bowls
• Vases (with or without ceramic flowers)
• Yunomi – a traditional Japanese tea cup, which is small, beautiful, and a favorite among pottery lovers
Woodwork
• Hand-carved wooden salad bowls
• Serving utensils or spoons
• Decorative wood items with practical use
Wall Art (in all sizes)
• Small framed paintings (3x3, 4x4, 5x7 in) Needle-felted landscapes
• Ink illustrations and etchings
• Watercolors, oils, and acrylics — many in compact formats that fit any space
Jewelry – Wearable Art
• Unique handmade pieces from local artists
• Items made with lake stones and other natural materials
Handmade Cards
• Hand-painted or hand-drawn greeting cards
• Letterpress or hand-printed designs
• Many are frameable — a meaningful mini artwork for under $15
THE GRAND HAND TOUCH
One of the greatest benefits of shopping at The Grand Hand is the personal guidance offered by their knowledgeable staff.
“If someone walks in with a general sense of their budget, we can help guide the selection process,” says Rachael.
They’ve met most of their artists personally and can share stories behind each piece — adding another layer of meaning to your gift.
“But no matter where you buy,” says Jim, “Always remember to gift art that is meaningful and useful.”
Learn more and explore The Grand Hand’s collection at: thegrandhandgallery.com
619 Grand Ave, St. Paul | 651-312-1122
SELLING YOUR HOME in fall and winter
EXPERT ADVICE FROM MINNEAPOLIS REALTORS SARAH BALESTRI AND KATE BUCKLEY
ARTICLE BY SARAH KNIEFF
PHOTOGRAPHY BY LARA
LEIMBACH PHOTOGRAPHY
As longtime residents of the Minneapolis Lakes area, Sarah Balestri and Kate Buckley know firsthand what makes this vibrant and walkable part of the city so special. Living near the shores of Lake Harriet and working from their Coldwell Banker Realty office on Bde Maka Ska, these two seasoned realtors bring over 30 years of combined experience to every transaction. They’re deeply thankful to call this community home and feel honored to help others do the same.
Whether you're looking to buy or sell in the lakes area or the surrounding neighborhoods, Sarah and Kate have the local expertise to help you navigate the market – especially during the often-overlooked fall and winter seasons.
WHY SELLING IN THE FALL AND WINTER MAKES SENSE
Many homeowners wait until spring to list their properties, but Sarah and Kate encourage sellers to consider the strategic advantages of listing during the colder months. Here's why:
1. Less Competition
With fewer homes on the market, your listing is more likely to stand out. Buyers have fewer choices, which can translate into more focused attention on your property and, potentially, quicker offers.
2. More Motivated Buyers
Fall and winter buyers tend to be more serious. Whether due to job relocations, end-of-year tax considerations, or a desire to be settled in a new home before the holidays, these buyers are ready to move.
3. Faster Transactions
Because real estate activity tends to slow down in colder months, mortgage lenders, inspectors, and appraisers often have more availability. That means fewer delays and potentially quicker closings.
4. A Cozy & Inviting Home
Shorter days and cooler weather offer the perfect backdrop for showcasing your home's warmth. Seasonal decorations, cozy textiles, and soft lighting can create an inviting ambiance that resonates emotionally with buyers.
5. End-of-Year Tax and Job Incentives
Buyers looking to take advantage of tax deductions or gearing up for a job change in the new year may be especially eager to close before December 31.
6. A Strategic Head Start
Listing in late fall or early winter means you'll beat the spring rush. Your home can attract attention before the flood of new listings hits the market—and you’ll be well-positioned to buy in the spring when inventory opens up.
7. Improved Curb Appeal
Without dense summer foliage, a home’s true architectural features become more visible. That charming gable or custom trim work might be completely hidden by a leafy tree in June—but beautifully showcased in November.
CONTINUED >
SARAH balestri KATE buckley
COLDWELL BANKER realty
TIPS FOR PREPPING YOUR HOME FOR A COLD-SEASON SALE
Sarah and Kate offer practical, proven strategies for preparing your home to impress during the cooler months:
• Spruce up your landscaping with seasonal plants or evergreen arrangements in pots or window boxes. •
• Use seasonal décor to appeal to the widest range of buyers.
• Stay on top of raking and snow removal to ensure a safe and clean entry.
• Address exterior paint touch-ups before temperatures drop too low.
• Showcase unique winter features, like an ice rink if you're on a pond.
• Create a warm interior with layered throws, pillows, and flameless candles.
• Schedule exterior photos now to capture your home’s landscaping in full fall color.
• Keep exterior lights on so agents can access lockboxes and buyers feel welcome.
• Use a large, attractive entryway rug to manage snow and mud from boots during showings.
• Set a lamp on a timer near the front door for early evening showings.
• Maintain a comfortable temperature – around 70°F –to keep the home cozy during visits.
• Use subtle seasonal scents via diffusers or unlit candles (no plug-ins or overpowering fragrances).
Thinking About Selling This Fall or Winter?
If you're considering listing your home during the cooler months – or even planning ahead for an early spring sale – now is the time to prepare. With Sarah and Kate’s deep knowledge of the Minneapolis Lakes neighborhoods and their personalized, strategic approach, you'll be in expert hands from listing to closing.
For a consultation or to learn more about how to position your home for success, contact:
Sarah Balestri – 612-590-7703
Kate Buckley – 612-817-7554
With Sarah and Kate’s deep knowledge of the Minneapolis Lakes neighborhoods and their personalized, strategic approach, you’ll be in expert hands from listing to closing.
Tips on meal prepping for less stress
Let’s face it: hosting Thanksgiving dinner can be stressful. To make this year’s Thanksgiving meal easier and more enjoyable, consider the following timeline of tips.
2 WEEKS BEFORE
Create Your Thanksgiving Menu
• Print out the recipes you plan to use – this will easier than constantly tapping your phone to prevent the screen from going dark.
• Using your menu and printed out recipes as a guide, compose a complete shopping list.
• Double check your supply of herbs and spices to see what you have on hand.
• Shop for all non-perishable and frozen food items. Basically, if it doesn’t need to be stored in the fridge, or if it doesn’t have a short shelf life, it’s going in the cart.
• Plan three easy and tasty dinners for the days leading up to Thanksgiving and purchase those ingredients during your shopping trip. Or plan at least one night of takeout.
4-5 DAYS BEFORE
Clean & Organize, Buy Fresh
Groceries
• Clean your home completely. Then, as the big day approaches, you can touch up as needed.
• Finish your grocery shopping for fresh vegetables like potatoes, onions and carrots and other items not purchased earlier.
• Go through your fridge and toss any old, expired condiments, leftovers and mysterious food items that no one is eating.
2-3 DAYS BEFORE
Prep Meals & Set the Table
• Wash and chop all veggies and place the prepped produce into plastic baggies or airtight food storage containers. If some recipes call for “minced onion” and others require “chopped onion,” label the bags accordingly.
• Set the table, and include the empty serving dishes. This will help you figure out ahead of time where the larger dishes can go. Add Post-It notes to the empty dishes to remind you what will go in what. Use a clean sheet to cover everything and keep it all dust-free.
• Gather all needed serving spoons and other serving pieces.
• Pre-measure herbs and spices for your recipes and store them in labeled small plastic bags with the name of the dish they are for and what’s in the baggies. You can also do the same for any flour, sugar or other non-perishable ingredients you’ll use in your dishes.
1 DAY BEFORE
Tidy, Prepare Dishes & Drinks
• Do a quick clean and tidy around the home; for instance, run the vacuum.
• If you haven’t already done so, bake your pies, or, at the very least, prepare your pie dough.
• Make the mashed potatoes. Bonus tip: on Thanksgiving, put the potatoes into a slow cooker and heat them up using the “warm” setting.
• Prepare the gravy. If you have a second slow cooker, it too can be warmed up this way on Thanksgiving. This will also help free up pots, pans and burners on the stove!
• Set up a separate drink station where guests can help themselves or someone can serve them away from the kitchen. Stock it with glasses of different sizes, napkins, bottle and can openers and straws.
ARTICLE BY ALISON STANTON
ARTICLE BY SARAH KNIEFF
The 2025 Holiday Gift Guide
THOUGHTFUL, UNIQUE & LOCALLY INSPIRED PICKS FOR EVERYONE ON YOUR LIST
The holidays are a time to celebrate, connect, and show appreciation – and nothing says “I’m thinking of you” like a well-chosen gift. But finding the right gift can feel like a challenge, especially when you're looking for something more meaningful than the usual suspects. That’s why we’ve rounded up a curated list of standout gifts – from artisan chocolates to handcrafted jewelry and everything in between. Whether you're shopping for a foodie, a fitness lover, or someone who just needs a little more peace in their life, this guide has you covered.
Cari Ann Carter Group's Favorite Holiday Venue: 7 Vines Vineyard and Winery Simply exceptional.
realty report
H O P E
Begins with YOU A SEASON TO SEE THE UNSEEN
The holidays have a way of calling us back to what matters most—faith, family, compassion, and the quiet but powerful act of giving. As lights go up and calendars fill, there are still many who sit in silence, carrying burdens too heavy to bear alone. But what if this season, you could be the spark that changes everything for someone else?
The founders of City Lifestyle, through their private foundation, are once again launching its annual Christmas Giving Campaign—a heartfelt effort to seek out and support individuals and families who have quietly fallen through the cracks. The mission is simple: to bring light, dignity, and hope to those who need it most.
Since its beginning just four years ago, this initiative has grown from a humble idea into a life-changing movement. Last Christmas alone, more than 200 families across the country received unexpected support—financial relief, but also something even more powerful.
“We don’t just send checks,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “We send a message: You are seen. You are loved. And you are not forgotten.”
Together with City Lifestyle President Matthew Perry, Steven has helped shape this into a tradition that goes far beyond charity. “This is about community,” Matthew adds. “We believe we’ve been blessed, so now we get to be a blessing.”
Every story begins with a nomination. Often, it’s a neighbor, coworker, friend, or teacher—someone who’s been quietly carrying too much for too long. One past recipient, after receiving unexpected support during a time of deep personal struggle, wrote:
SCAN TO NOMINATE
“We send a message: You are seen. You are loved. And you are not forgotten.”
“Beyond the very practical solution of receiving funds to fix my car, this thing you guys worked together to do is bigger than that. I carry the Christmas card you sent in my purse. When things get really hard, I pull it out and remember what it felt like to be seen. That card represents hope— that change for the better is possible. I’m not sure how many people get to carry hope around in their purse. But I do.”
Another wrote in after her husband was diagnosed with aggressive brain cancer and unable to work:
“This support has blessed our family not only financially, but emotionally and spiritually as we trust God to meet our needs throughout this difficult time. Thank you to our anonymous friend and to your foundation. What a joy and gift to be part of God’s family!”
Each year brings countless stories like these—real lives touched by simple acts of kindness. Some use the funds to pay overdue bills, others to afford groceries, medication, or repairs. But no matter the circumstance, the impact is the same: hope is restored.
This season, you have the opportunity to be part of that. The campaign is now open to nominations—completely confidential and prayerfully considered. Whether it’s someone battling illness, facing unemployment, or just in need of a helping hand, you can bring them a moment of grace that will ripple far beyond Christmas morning.
“Knowing my mom was chosen filled my heart with indescribable joy,” said another past recipient. “Your generosity doesn’t just brighten her life; it inspires hope and faith in all of us. It enables her to stay in her home and get back on her feet.”
Nominations are open from November 1st to December 5th, 2025. To submit someone you know, simply scan the QR code or visit @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the nomination form in the bio.
This holiday season, let’s give more than gifts. Let’s give each other the gift of being seen. Because sometimes, the smallest gesture becomes someone’s greatest miracle.
To nominate someone in need, visit: KingdomBuildingFoundation.org or scan the QR code.
NOVEMBER 4TH - JANUARY 4TH
How the Grinch Stole Christmas
Children's Theatre Company
A miserly and miserable, ever-so-cantankerous Grinch has observed the despicable Christmas joy of the Whos with disdain, from a distance, for decades. Enough! In this favorite holiday story, filled with music and Seussian rhymes, he conceives a dastardly plot to destroy the holiday they love. It’s the smallest of the Whos, tiny Cindy Lou, who extends a hand. childrenstheatre.org
NOVEMBER 8TH - DECEMBER 28TH
A Christmas Carol Guthrie Theater
Each Christmas, the bitter Ebenezer Scrooge greets the season with a grumble: “Bah! Humbug!” But one Christmas Eve, he’s visited by three spirits who reveal his past, present, and a dark future if he doesn’t change. As the night unfolds, Scrooge faces who he’s become -- and who he could be. The Guthrie’s cherished holiday tradition continues to inspire audiences with hope and joy. guthrietheater.org
NOVEMBER 8TH
Twin Cities Book Festival
Union Depot | 10:00 AM
Celebrating 25 years of books and book lovers, Rain Taxi’s Twin Cities Book Festival is Minnesota’s premier literary gathering. Each year, readers, writers, and publishers unite for author talks, children’s activities, and an exhibit hall filled with new and rare books, unique literary finds, and more. It’s a must-attend event for anyone passionate about the written word. twincitiesbookfestival.com
Remodeling
NOVEMBER 14TH AND 15TH
Rootstock Fall Afternoon Tea
Minnesota Landscape Arboretum | 1:00 PM
Experience the charm of “Rootstock Seasonal Teas” in the cozy Tea Room of the Arboretum’s historic Snyder Building. On select afternoons, October–April, enjoy classic tea service with a seasonal twist, crafted by Rootstock Chef Niki Heber. Guests can explore the Arboretum before or after their visit. Vegetarian options available by request. $85 members / $95 non-members (plus tax). arb.umn.edu
NOVEMBER 18TH - 30TH
The Notebook
The Ordway
Based on the best-selling novel, "The Notebook" follows Allie and Noah—two lovers from different worlds—whose bond endures against all odds. Featuring music by Ingrid Michaelson and direction by Michael Greif and Schele Williams, this moving musical is “absolutely gorgeous” (Chicago Tribune) and “a love story for the ages” (NY Daily News). A timeless tale brought to life on stage.
NOVEMBER 26TH - DECEMBER 7TH
Cirque du Soleil: ‘Twas the Night Before…
Carlson Family Stage
‘Twas the Night Before... marks Cirque du Soleil’s first-ever holiday production, inspired by Clement Clarke Moore’s timeless poem “A Visit from Saint Nicholas.” Drawing from the poem’s iconic lines, the show tells the heartwarming tale of a disenchanted young girl who rediscovers the wonder of the holiday season. Designed as a joyful celebration for the whole family, the production blends Cirque’s signature acrobatics with endearing characters. northrop.umn.edu
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