Issuu

The Kids & Pets Issue

AU G U S T 2 022

AUGUST 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / WAC O N I A

LIFESTYLE LETTER

Outpouring of Love

August 2022 PUBLISHER

Amy Janzen | amy.janzen@citylifestyle.com EDITOR IAL COOR DINATOR

Emily McKeever | emily.mckeever@citylifestyle.com

As summer begins to wind down and the start of school commences, the carefree days of slow morning routines and more time adventuring is exchanged for busier routines and schedules. The summers tend to progressively feel like they fly by the older we get, as do the years, but the simple pleasures of summer never get old. Although the routine of school for our children is often a welcome friend by the time August rolls around, it is generally a little bittersweet. The outpouring of love and support for our premiere issue from friends, family and community members was emotional and inspiring for our team. I had many conversations about how the stories impacted you or how a recipe turned into a fun family activity. YOU inspire us here at Waconia City Lifestyle. We have so much gratitude pouring from our hearts and we’re excited to keep bringing amazing stories and beautiful photography to you each month as we continue to grow. Our August issue is dedicated to the cutest members of our community—kids and pets. They both have a way of making us feel special and their loyalty and sense of wonder is refreshing. In this issue we share a few of our go-to spots to enjoy with kids and fur-kids alike. As summer comes to a close, we hope you’re able to relax and spend time with the ones you love. Lastly, as someone who strives to create wonderful engaging content with my team for our communities, sometimes things get missed. In the premiere issue of Waconia City Lifestyle, a portion of the instructions for the No Bake Raspberry Pie was missing. I acknowledge and apologize for this error. We want our readers to have accurate information in every issue. Please find the full recipe at https://thewoodenskillet.com/no-bake-raspberry-piedriscolls-sweepstakes/. Thank you for your support! Enjoy the August issue!

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Proverbs 3:5-6 Waconia City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Waconia area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect 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 Waconia City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but

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

the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

AUGUST 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / WAC O N I A

AUGUST 2022

inside the issue The Kids and Pets Issue

F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

12 A Northern Minnesota Getaway

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Local Experiences

Travel Journal

Local Limelight

Giving Back

Party Planning

Must See

Events

Fashion Forward

Kohl’s Resort Creates Lasting Memories For Families, Friends and Even Pets

16 Dog's Best Friend

Unique and funny highlights of local dog and owner relationships

21 Nothing Short of a Miracle

Waconians come together to support the Orth Family

24 Kids Birthday Party Ideas

Discover outside the box options for your child's next birthday celebration

O N T H E C OV E R

Photography: shots by bridge Kohl’s Resort resident greeter, Windsor, on duty.

T R AV EL LI FE + C U LT U R E

LI FE + C U LT U R E EV ENT PLA NNI NG + SE RV IC E S

T R AV EL

ST YLE + B EAU TY

INSURANCE DESIGNED WITH YOU AND YOUR DREAMS IN MIND.

INSURANCE DESIGNED WITH YOU AND YOUR DREAMS IN LET US HELP PROTECT YOUR DREAMS. MIND.

INSURANCE DESIGNED INSURANCE DESIGNED WITH WITH LET US HELP PROTECT YOUR DREAMS. Dawson & Associates LLC

Dawson & Associates LLC Jill Dawson, Agent (952) 835-7500 mydawsonassociates.com 20 W Main St Ste 300, Waconia

INSURANCE DESIGNED WITHAND YOU AND YOURWITH DREAMS INSURANCE DESIGNED INSURANCE INSURANCE WITH DESIGNED DESIGNED WITHIN YOU YOUR DREAMS IN INSURANCE DESIGNED WITH Dawson & Associates LLC DREAMS INAND MIND. MIND. YOU YOU AND YOUR DREAMS IN YOUAND ANDYOUR YOUR YOU DREAMS YOU AND YOUR INYOUR DREAMS DREAMS INAgent IN Jill Dawson, (952) 835-7500 MIND.MIND. MIND. MIND. MIND. mydawsonassociates.com Jill Dawson, Agent Dawson & Associates LLC (952) 835-7500 Jill Dawson, Agent 20 W Main St Ste 300, Waconia (952) 835-7500 mydawsonassociates.com 20 W Main St Ste 300, Waconia mydawsonassociates.com

20 W Main St Ste 300, Waconia

24-HOUR CLAIMS REPORTING & CUSTOMER SERVICE 1-800-MYAMFAM (692-6326)

Dawson &LLC Associates LLC DawsonAMFAM.COM & Associates Dawson, Agent Jill Dawson, Jill Agent | AUTO | LIFE | BUSINESS | FARM & RANCH AMFAM.COM &HOMEAssociates LLC Dawson Dawson & Associates LLC (952) 835-7500 (952) 835-7500 Jill Dawson, Agent Jill Dawson, Agent mydawsonassociates.com Dawson & Associates LLC DawsonDawson &American Associates & Associates LLC LLC mydawsonassociates.com (952) Family Mutual Insurance Company, (952) 835-7500835-7500 & its Operating 20Companies, WMadison, Main St Ste 300, Waconia 20JillWS.I.6000 Main StParkway, Ste 300, Waconia Jill Dawson, Agent Dawson, Dawson, Agent AmericanJill WI 53783 Agent mydawsonassociates.com mydawsonassociates.com ©2015 006441 – Rev. 2/20 – 16383112 835-7500 (952) 835-7500 (952) 835-7500 20StWSte Main Ste 300,(952) Waconia 20 W Main 300,St Waconia

HOME | AUTO | LIFE | BUSINESS | FARM & RANCH

24-HOUR CLAIMS REPORTING & CUSTOMER SERVICE 1-800-MYAMFAM (692-6326) American Family Mutual Insurance Company, S.I. and Its Operating Companies, American Family Insurance Company,

American Family Mutual Insurance Company, S.I. and Its Operating Companies, American Family Insurance Company, American Family Life Insurance Company, 6000 American Parkway, Madison, WI 53783 010996 – Rev. 7/17 ©2015 – 16382954

mydawsonassociates.com mydawsonassociates.com mydawsonassociates.com 20 W Main St Ste 300, Waconia 20 W Main 20 St W Ste Main 300, St Ste Waconia 300, Waconia

Family Mutual Insurance Company, American Family American Mutual Insurance Company, S.I.Companies, & its Operating Companies, S.I. & its Operating 6000 American Parkway, Madison, WI 53783 6000 American Parkway, Madison, WI 53783 006441 – Rev. 2/20 – 16383112 ©2015 006441©2015 – Rev. 2/20 – 16383112

Mutual Insurance Company, American Family MutualAmerican InsuranceFamily Company, S.I. & its Operating Companies, S.I. & its Operating Companies, 6000 American Parkway, Madison, WI 53783 6000 American Parkway, Madison, WI 53783 ©2015 – Rev. 2/20 – 16383112 ©2015 006441 – Rev. 2/20 –006441 16383112

American Family Mutual Insurance Company, American FamilyAmerican Mutual Insurance Family Mutual Company, Insurance Company, S.I. & its Operating Companies, S.I. & its Operating S.I. & Companies, its Operating Companies, 6000 American Parkway, Madison, WI 537836000 American6000 Parkway, American Madison, Parkway, WI 53783 Madison, WI 53783 ©2015 006441 – Rev. 2/20 – 16383112 ©2015 006441 ©2015 – Rev.006441 2/20 – 16383112 – Rev. 2/20 – 16383112

AUGUST 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / WAC O N I A

AUGUST 2022

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen. 1

ROXANNE KUERSCHNER

NATALIE FINAZZO FOX

ROXANNE KUERSCHNER

HOMETOWN BANK HOMETOWN BANK

NATALIE FINAZZO FOX

1: The Lake Waconia Band Festival began with Waconia's drumline marching solo down Main Street. 2: Race numbers, check! Smiles, check! Let’s go! 3: Runners were awarded with delicious food and drinks after the race. 4: Moms on the Run laced up for Lola’s Lake Waconia Half Marathon. 5: Superhero time at the HomeTown Bank Block Party! 6: Face painting and wacky balloon creations were hits at this town favorite event.

Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @waconiacitylifestyle

C I T Y SC E N E

AUGUST 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / WAC O N I A

AUGUST 2022

local experiences The best places and things to do in our area.

As the end of summer approaches, cool off and satisfy your tastebuds at these go-to spots around town. Treat yourself, your kids, or your fur-kids to a frozen treat that bids adieu to summer.

Sweet Treats FR OZEN WINE AT SCHR AM VINEYAR DS: Stay cool with Schram's new frozen

wine drinks. Try 'Icetasca' or a frozen red wine as you soak in breathtaking views. 8785 Airport Road Waconia, MN SUMMER OPTIONS AT SOULFUL SMOOTHIES: Choose from cool nutrient-rich options like the Be Joyful smoothie or Peaceful Harmony bowl. 44 West 1st Street Waconia, MN ELEPHANT JOE'S A LATTE COLD SIPS: Frozen hot chocolate and iced coffees are just a couple of the cool drinks served out of Elephant Joe's Coffee truck. FR OZEN FIVE ICE CR EAMER Y FUN: Indulge in your favorite homemade flavor or sample many in a flight. You'll be a fan for life. 8 West 1st Street Waconia, MN PAWS INN PET ESSENTIALS - GOODIES FOR FOUR LEGGED F R I EN D S:

Probiotic frozen yogurt or a sweet baked treat will get those tails wagging. 120 South Vine Street Waconia, MN

Scan for more photos and the full list. Frozen Wine at Schram Vineyards Winery & Brewery

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

LOCA L E X P E R IE N C E S

AUGUST 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / WAC O N I A

ARTICLE BY KATIE VAN VOOREN

A Northern

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHOTS BY BRIDGE

Minnesota KOHL’S RESORT CREATES LASTING MEMORIES FOR FAMILIES, FRIENDS AND EVEN PETS

Getaway

Brian and Ashley Putnam both spent summers of their youth along the shores of Minnesota lakes where they were molded by the memories and traditions they created with their families. In 2020, during the thick of Covid lockdowns, the opportunity presented itself for the Putnams to buy Kohl’s Resort in Bemidji and they jumped at the chance. Upon check in at the lodge, you might notice a handmade figurine that was affectionately carved by Brian in honor of his favorite resort owner, Ralph. It serves as a daily reminder of him living out his childhood dream. Ashley admits that owning a resort has always been more of Brian’s passion but acknowledges, “Everything fell into place, and we just had the overall feeling that this was our destiny.” The long-lasting traditions and standards of the resort are very important to the Putnams. They had the opportunity to meet the original owner, Helen, who opened Kohl’s as a two cabin resort in 1948. The Putnams also shared that one family will be returning for their 56th visit this summer. “We want families to come here, create memories and traditions, get away from the city and leave it all behind.” CONTINUED >

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Accommodations at the resort include twenty-two unique cabins and two pool side rooms. Many of the cabins offer enough space for multi-family gatherings. Thinking about making a trip north for a girls weekend? You’ll be sure to find ideal lodging here. The resort offers a plethora of outside games, an indoor pool, amazing hiking opportunities, and other various activities to keep your family and friends entertained. New this year is the Woodlands Putt Putt where the whole family can practice their short game. At Kohl’s there is truly something for everyone. A bonus for many families is that Kohl’s is dog friendly, so you won’t have to find other plans for your furry family member. The resident dog, a hefty lab named Windsor, can often be found in the lodge ready for a belly rub or scratch behind the ears. Ashley is certain that Windsor knows when new guests have arrived. On Saturdays, the typical day of turn over, he roams from cabin to cabin greeting the new guests and finding which ones give out treats. Supporting local merchants is very important to Ashley, whether it’s stocking the lodge with products and apparel made in Minnesota, or suggesting her favorite local spots to their guests. Being only ten minutes from downtown Bemidji, Ashley and Brian have a list of local recommendations which includes restaurants, breweries and shopping. This makes Kohl’s the perfect destination for the nature lover and foodie alike. This time of year brings back to school to-do lists and activities along with the feelings of sweet summer moments slipping through your fingers. It’s not too late to plan an end of summer getaway or take advantage of the beautiful fall at Kohl’s Resort. Ashley and Brian believe in serving their guests with their whole heart, “We have been given the opportunity to share good and we don’t take it lightly.”

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Dog's Best Friend On any given day at the quaint little bike shop in St. Bonifacius, you will find the most docile Siberian Husky mix laying around and greeting customers. Justin Ratzlaff, his owner and the face behind Spokes, says Luther has become the unofficial mascot. “We even ran a billboard last year where we advertised sales, service and a cute dog.” While Luther comes off cool as a cucumber, Justin says that hasn’t always been the case. When they brought him home at about 6 months of age from Under Dog Rescue, he was a bit of a terror. It is commonly joked about in the husky breed community that they often have dynamic personalities. Luther is mostly chill, but there are times you’ll find him a bit more daring, jumping into the water and rolling in the mud. He’s extra enthusiastic when it comes to Scott, the treat carrying UPS driver. There’s no denying Luther is the star of the shop. Just ask Justin.

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | L IFE + CULTURE

UNIQUE AND FUNNY HIGHLIGHTS OF LOCAL DOG AND OWNER RELATIONSHIPS

ARTICLE BY KATIE VAN VOOREN PHOTOGRAPHY BY NATALIE FINAZZO FOX

Luther - Justin Ratzlaff Spokes

Daisy - Jennifer Carlson

Sam & Friends

“She’s a big fan of car rides, and loves going through the drive thru.”

Daisy, affectionately called Daisy Mae, joined the Carlson family in July of 2019. She’s a big fan of car rides, and loves going through the drive thru. Unlike most dogs, she doesn’t like pup cups, but she’ll scarf down an ice cream cup no problem. Daisy has a sneaky side to her, and is known for stealing anything she can get off the counter. Recently, she licked all the chocolate off of the Special K Bars and once demolished a whole box of Duncan Donuts. This past Christmas when the family was under the weather, Grandma surprised them with an amazing platter of Christmas cookies. It delighted Jen and the family, but the next morning all that remained was the platter, some crumbs, and the Saran wrap. Daisy’s days of ruling the house alone might soon be numbered! Don’t tell her that a new puppy may be joining the Carlson crew soon. CONTINUED >

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Luther - Martin Cole Thrivent Financial

Martin Cole is okay being told he’s starting to look like his dog, forty-five pound Standard Schnauzer Luther, because, “He’s a good-looking dog.” Standard Schnauzers are rather rare and hard to acquire because breeders are very particular when choosing adopters. Often if you don’t plan on showing your Schnauzer, breeders won’t even consider you, but Martin managed to secure a visit and he told his girls to turn on the charm. Within a week they had a promising phone call, and after a lengthy application process, they brought him home. Luther is happiest when he’s zooming around the yard, keeping track of the neighborhood kids. He’s also laid claim to the spare bedroom in the house, where he has a bird’s-eye view of all outside activity. Martin chuckled, “Luther doesn’t like sharing his room with overnight guests and sits outside the door waiting for them to leave.”

“Luther is happiest when he’s zooming around the yard, keeping track of the neighborhood kids.”

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | L IFE + CULTURE

Rip - Brittany Simmington Studio West Dance Studio

When Brittany and David Simmington set out to select an F1 Standard Goldendoodle at a breeder in Zumbro Falls, they knew they wanted a male. There were eight boys to choose from on their selection day, but one specific puppy kept climbing into Brittany’s lap. A kiss on the nose sealed the deal, and Rip found his forever home. The couple decided they wanted to choose a strong name for their dog and came up with Rip, the popular rugged character from the hit series, Yellowstone, however he couldn’t be more opposite. He enjoys playing with and eating ice cubes, begging for belly scratches and generally being silly and mischievous. He’s also a big fan of The Social Ice Cream Parlor in Victoria where he scores his favorite treat, a pup cup. Rip is about to be a big brother to a human, and while a lot of people thought they were crazy to get a puppy before the arrival of their baby, Brittany feels like Rip has helped them prepare. Safe to say that the big teddy bear will be an exceptional brother and will have fun with his new friend.

Roco and Totti - Dr. Jessica Victoria Veterinary Hospital

Dr. Jessica had a dream of working with rural farm animals until she rescued her first dog, a Schnauzer, when she was in Veterinary School. From that point on, small animal medicine was where she wanted to be. Three years ago, in 2019, Dr. Jessica purchased the veterinary clinic in Victoria and created Victoria Veterinary Hospital. Shortly after, she moved west to Victoria where she is very thankful to be surrounded by a strong community of animal lovers. Schnauzers have a special place in Dr. Jessica’s heart-- she admits she’ll probably always have one. Currently she has two sassy and strong pet companions at home, Roco and Totti, named after soccer players. They have a dynamic relationship, Dr. Jessica says, “Roco is the boss and Totti follows.” When they get into trouble, which usually involves taking food that’s not theirs, Roco is the instigator and Totti isn’t far behind.

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Nothing Short of a Miracle

CONTINUED >

ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MIKALA MACHEMEHL

WACONIANS COME TOGETHER TO SUPPORT THE ORTH FAMILY

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Ask anyone who lives in this community, Waconians show up for each other. There’s an undeniable common thread that runs through us of giving, supporting one another, valuing community, and we’re not afraid to show it. We put time and money towards a new playground so all kids can play. We search on foot for lost dogs that we’ve never even met, and you’d be hard pressed to find a local business who doesn’t have a charitable mission. It was no different, when a phone call ignited a fire to rally the community of Waconia and its surrounding cities for threeyear-old Zoey Orth and her family. They had a fight ahead, and unknowingly they were not about to do it alone. Zoey has always been a spirited and rambunctious little girl according to her dad. So when she was recently diagnosed with Diffuse Midline Glioma, H3 K27-altered, Grade 4 cancer, it was incomprehensible. “We’ve experienced a full spectrum of emotions during this journey. Fear gave way to courage-sadness to joy-despair to hope...but as you read this we want you to know exactly how we feel about our community of family and friends-we’re just deeply grateful.” Mike and Heather have tried to raise their kids to be kind, generous, encouraging, self-sufficient and Christ centered people. Their values make it difficult to receive kindness when they teach them to give rather than to receive. “However, it’s clear this community we love so much wants to cover our little girl in love and support. So we’ve decided we need to get out of the way to allow your healing love to fully surround her.”

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In light of the community wanting to help, a benefit for Zoey was conceived. This is no easy task in a matter of twenty days. But on June 26th, volunteers, local businesses, friends, and strangers showed up for Zoey beyond what anyone could possibly imagine. That evening, Carver County Fairgrounds was filled with music, food, drinks, a silent and live auction and loving support for this local family. It was nothing short of a miracle. A group of local families even “crashed” Zoey’s benefit as a part of BenefitCrashers, an organization whose mission it is to show those who are experiencing hardships they’re not alone. A large group of BenefitCrashers surprised the Orths with their show of support and got busy bidding on auction items, buying food, and simply adding to the solidarity of the event. The family is incredibly grateful, not just for the financial support but for creating a memory for Zoey and her family that is beyond measure. For Mike and Heather, this day was a wish granted for their baby girl. You see, when Zoey was diagnosed, she started treatment and missed her third birthday. All she wished for was “a purple park”. Her wish came true when she was paraded into the benefit, which she thought was her birthday party, by police escort, to a sea of over 6,000 people wearing purple. There’s no denying this community’s heart. Zoey’s benefit proved that when good people come together, phenomenal things can happen. If you’d like to support Zoey, donate through Venmo at @ZoeyOrth.

AUGUST 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / WAC O N I A

Kids Birthday Party Ideas Discover outside the box options for your child's next birthday celebration

ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER

PA RT Y P LA N N IN G | EVENT PLANNI NG + S E RVI CE S

CONTINUED >

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@tiffanyspicnicandparties

PA RT Y P LA N N IN G | EVENT PLANNI NG + S E RVI CE S

It’s your child’s birthday and everyone, including you, is excited to celebrate but, thinking of that perfect party location or activity can be a difficult task. Birthdays aren’t just about balloons and cupcakes after all. Here are some outside the box unique options that’ll make for an extra memorable celebration. Schedule a dance party at Studio West Dance Center in Victoria. The instructor will choreograph a dance to the birthday star’s favorite song and teach it to guests. There is time for dress up and makeup, followed by a fashion show and crafts. You’ll finish this magical hour and a half by performing your dance for family and friends. studiowestdancemn. com/birthday-parties Learn how a real llama farm works with a birthday party at Carlson’s Llovable Llamas. Take your llama on a trail walk, meet the newest llama babies, and get a guided tour by a farmworker. A shaded picnic area is available for party activities as well. carlsonsllovablellamas. com/activities/birthday-parties/ Chapter One Books is not only a quaint bookstore in Victoria, they also offer birthday parties led by a certified teacher. Welcome your guests to this cute space decorated in vibrant colors for story time and a craft for each child to take home. chapteronemn.com/birthday-parties/

CHECK OUT THESE ADDITIONAL UNIQUE BIRTHDAY PARTY SPOTS • Adorable Kids Parties adorablekidsparties.com/services/ • Amazing Balloons amazingscott.com/party-balloonentertainment-balloon-twisting/ • Emagine Theater emagine-entertainment.com/event-types/ childrens-birthdays/ • Gamin’ Ride punchbowl.com/vendors/mn-minnesota/ chanhassen/6770699/gamin-ride/ • Garage Bowl garagebowl.com/parties-events • Hooray Let’s Play hoorayletsplaymn.com/about-us/ • Ice Cream Princess theicecreamprincess.com/ • Tiffany Picnic & Parties tiffanyspicnicandparties.com/ • Victoria Burrow theburrowmn.com/victoria • Victoria Recreation Center ci.victoria.mn.us/DocumentCenter/View/1337/ Birthday-Party-PDF?bidId= • Waconia Ice Arena waconiaicearena.com/parties-and-rentals • Way Cool Cooking School waycoolcookingschool.com/what-we-do/ kids-birthday-parties/ • Wild Birthday Parties at Lowry Nature Center threeriversparks.org/page/wild-birthday-parties/

AUGUST 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / WAC O N I A

Laguna Beach

Why This Quintessential California Colony Should Be Your Next Travel Destination!

Visit

There’s a reason people visit the southern California coastal city of Laguna Beach an average of five times in their lifetime. From its stunning ocean side bluffs overlooking 30 Pacific Ocean beaches and coves to its fusion of beautiful canyon wilderness with tranquil ocean life, fresh-ingredients cuisine and eclectic arts culture, Laguna Beach is a time-honored destination full of vibrant and invigorating seaside experiences. This month, our City Lifestyle community of luxury travel enthusiasts are thrilled to collaborate with Visit Laguna Beach to present a breathtaking view into this idyllic West Coast artist community. Plus, together, we have created an exclusive GIVEAWAY opportunity to win a 2-night trip for two. Get ready to experience the upscale and creative culture alongside the lively, yet quirky personality of Laguna Beach! When it comes to prestigious travel hospitality, The Ranch at Laguna Beach is highly regarded by luxury and discerning travel authorities such as Conde Nast, Forbes, and Travel & Leisure for its congenial service, elevated ambiance and reputable guest experience. The upscale, outdoor wellness offerings range from the uniquely designed 9-hole golf course within the canyon setting to the full-time farmer facilitating outstanding local dishes offered on the original homestead of Laguna Beach. When it comes to feasting on the local fare, resident restaurant and bar, Harvest, focuses on organic farming for seasonal breakfast, lunch and dinner options. It boasts beautiful 180-degree views of Aliso Canyon as well as craft cocktails to sip and savor while overlooking the first tee of the golf course. Or, if sand beneath your feet is more your dining style, make the short walk to

M UST SE E | TR AVEL

Ente r for a chance to win a geta way to Laguna Beach! Read on for details.

Aliso beach where you will find Lost Pier, an elevated eatery serving the likes of warm beignets and coffee in the morning, and ceviche, shrimp rolls and fisherman’s catch fish tacos for lunch. And what would the Laguna Beach culture be without all of the seaside activities? Kayaking, snorkeling and diving, whale and dolphin watching, SUP—you name it, you can experience it. Throughout your stay, you of course will want to make your way into town for endless entertainment options of “Laguna flavor.” Visit the community theater, The Laguna Playhouse, where Harrison Ford got his start. Hop on a free trolley and pop from brewpub Laguna Beach Beer Company pouring locally made craft beer, to one of two wine-tasting rooms where McClain Cellars serves award-winning wines from Santa Ynez Valley. Complement your thirst with a variety of cuisines among more than 100 restaurants to choose from. Local favorites include The Royal Hawaiian Fire Grill for a twist on Hawaiian flavors in a tiki-style venue, Las

Brisas for its incredible brunch menu and scenic views of Laguna’s Heisler Park overlooking cliffs that resemble the French Riviera, Broadway by Amar Santana for some of the most elevated cuisine you will find from a multi-Top Chef finalist, along with cocktails crafted seasonally by the restaurant’s mixologist. Take the free trolleys from gallery to gallery, and be sure to include the Laguna Art Museum, the second oldest museum in the state of California, specializing in California-themed art and artists. A special component to the Laguna Beach art scene is its foundation on ‘en plein air’ paintings, the outdoor painting style that Monet made famous. Every year the Laguna Beach Plein Air Painting Invitational attracts painters from around the country to participate in a week’s worth of events, including a two-hour challenge of live painting. In short, Laguna Beach is seven miles of coves and beaches uniquely its own with breathtaking cliffs and recreational canyons and a hippy-loving-self-expression-embracing artist colony that you won’t want to miss in this lifetime. CONTINUED > AUGUST 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / WAC O N I A

WIN a 2-night GETAWAY to Laguna Beach! City Lifestyle and Visit Laguna Beach are giving one lucky winner and a guest the chance to explore Laguna Beach, CA with the ultimate Southern California escape encompassing scenic canyon and seaside views, fresh chef-driven cuisine and local recreation. This giveaway closes on August 31, 2022. This trip must be taken by August 31, 2023. For a chance to win, follow @citylifestyle and @visitlaguna on Instagram and tag friends and family on the August 1st giveaway post for additional entries to win.

Scan the code to ENTER to WIN at @citylifestyle on Instagram!

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$2,300 LAGUNA BEACH GETAWAY FOR 2 INCLUDES: • • • • • •

2 nights at The Ranch at Laguna Beach Breakfast at Harvest Tickets to The Laguna Playhouse Guided Kayaking Tour with Laguna Ethos Tickets to Laguna Art Museum $200 Visa Gift Card for Dining

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AUGUST 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / WAC O N I A

AUGUST 2022

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

AU GUST 3 RD

Abracadabra! A Night of Magic in Victoria

CHAR LS ON THUN COMMUN IT Y B A NDSTA ND | 4 :0 0 P M Start out at the Charlson Thun Community Bandstand (1730 Stieger Lake Ln, Victoria) in the Family Zone, 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm, where you’ll geocache, listen to live music and visit with Carlson’s Llovable Llamas. Then be amazed by the grand finale, Magician Kevin Hall, 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm. This event is free for all ages. Learn more at www.ci.victoria.mn.us/events .

AU GUST 6T H

1860's Baseball Game

CA RVER COUN TY HISTOR ICAL S O C I E T Y | 1 :0 0 P M Bring your chairs and blankets to the Historic Andrew Peterson Farmstead (8060 Minnesota Highway 5, Waconia) for an old-fashioned baseball game on August 6th from 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm. Seating will be on grassy areas around the field. This event is free for all ages. For more information call Carver County Historical Society at 952-442-4234 or email jhulleman@co.carver.mn.us.

AU GUST 6T H

Shred With Shannon SUP Shredcamp

LAUN CH AT CEDAR POIN T PARK / T-DO C K | 8 :30 A M Paddle board to Coney Island and a group of other adventurers, 8:30 am - 10:00 am. Once at the island, Shannon will guide you through an awesome workout. Then paddle back! Cost for this event is $35 if you need to rent a paddleboard, $15 if you bring one. For more information search for SUP Shredcamp on Facebook events.

EVE N TS

AUG U ST 10TH-14TH

AUG U ST 2 0 T H

Carver County Fair

CARVER COUN TY FAIRG ROUNDS | 8 :0 0 A M Come celebrate 110 years of fun at the Carver County Fair. Entertainment for all ages runs August 10th - 14th. 8:00 am - 10:00 pm. Admission to the fair is free for ages 6 and under and $8 for ages 7 and older. Tickets can be purchased at the gates during fair hours or online prior to August 10th. For more information visit www.carvercountyfair.com .

Pet Nail Trims

PAW S IN N PET ES S EN TIALS | 9 :0 0 A M Head into Paws Inn Pet Essentials for nail trims for your dog, cat, guinea pig, or bearded dragon on August 20th from 9:00 am - 12:00 pm. This service is $12.99 for a quick appointment and $17.99 for those pets who don’t like getting their nails trimmed. No appointment necessary. Call Paws Inn Pet Essentials at 612-8061854 for additional information.

AUG U ST 2 7 T H

Fine Wine & Art Find

THE W IN ERY AT S OVEREIG N E STAT E | 1 2:0 0 P M The 3rd annual Fine Wine & Art Find will be held at Sovereign Estate Winery August 27th - 28th. Sip wine while enjoying art, crafts, jewelry, live music and more! Cost is $5 a person which includes a souvenir glass for guests 21 and older. Kids are free. Learn more at www.sovereignestatewine.com/finewineandartfind .

AUGUST 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / WAC O N I A

ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY NATALIE FINAZZO FOX

Back To School Fashion Finds CHECK OUT THESE LOCAL FALL FASHION IDEAS Adding to the fun of a new school year, with new friends and a new routine, is shopping for that first day of school look. Owner Eleece Pink of The Stash, and owner of Sam & Friend’s, Jennifer Carlson, are used to the question, “What's in season?” They were eager to share. Take a peek at what their stores have to offer and trends to look for.

1. This season continues to be all about texture, so this smocked top is a no-brainer paired with high rise denim. A backpack with fun details rounds out this stylish look.

4. Warm sweatshirts and warm smiles are sure to brighten the day when you are wearing this cozy, soft find. Partner it with some matching smiley earrings and a pop of color in your shoelaces to make it complete.

FASH ION F OR WA R D | STYLE + BE AUTY

2. Wear your school spirit proudly with a logo tank. Then pile on your beaded bracelets and Wildcat accessories.

5. Pair a graphic tee, the more oversized the better, with destructed jean shorts and a fun patterned crossbody bag. Sneakers are still trending as the footwear of choice for fall.

3. Flowy skirts, especially ones with boho florals, are still very popular. To balance out proportions wear them with a fitted tank and strappy sandals.

6. Oversized cropped sweatshirts look best with leggings, sneakers and baseball hats. The casual ease of Snapback styles are a call back from the 90’s and are still the style of choice.