Waconia, MN March 2024

The Home & Design Issue

Home. So much contained in that little four-letter word. Home is our grounding. Our base. Our launchpad. It’s where we start and end each day. And while the particulars look different for each of us, the meaning and value it holds for all of us is undeniable.

As Laura Ingalls Wilder once said, “Home is the nicest word there is.” As we thought about home - we wanted to highlight what makes it spe cial to our readers.

In this issue:  Jen is back with her latest in Life Minded. She reminds us that a home is not a home unless it is “lived in.” Maria shares photography tips of the trade. We showcase a kitchen remodel by Lee Lyn Construction. Artistic Visions Cabinetry’s quality stands out in their craftsmanship. And Picture Perfect Landscape sheds light on the best practices to ensure a successful yard makeover. We feel like the lucky ones as we got to learn more about the businesses and individuals that comprise the Waconia area, and we hope the small lens into their lives and work brings people in this community together.

Every month, we hear from readers who keep this magazine for longer than just the month labeled on the cover. They say they hold onto it for months as coffee table art or an accessory in their home. We feel proud to create a resource that is valued in our community and strive every month to deliver the value you expect. Thanks for letting us be a part of your home.

Please support all the local businesses in our community. They are a big part of what makes Waconia, Victoria, St. Boni, and Watertown/Mayer a place you call home. It’s warming up after an easier-than-normal winter. See you around!

DAVE ROBERTSON, PUBLISHER @WACONIACITYLIFESTYLE

March 2024

Dave

MARKET SUPPORT MANAGER

Amy Janzen | amy.janzen@citylifestyle.com EDITOR

Lauren Beaubaire | lauren.beaubaire@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Lynlee Critz | lynlee.critz@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Emily McKeever, Alison Lee, Jen Fortner, and Lutie Ronglien

Maria Claire Photography

Schowengerdt

Thompson

Robinson

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Want to be seen in the magazine?

1-7: Schram Vineyards’ 2024 Winter Wine Lodge Series event! Every Saturday event-goers enjoyed a different wintery theme with vendor partners, music, special attractions like goat-petting, bonfires, and, of course, delicious Schram wine and food pairings.

business monthly

Kristin Campbell2024 President of RESA Minneapolis Area Chapter

There’s exciting news for Kristin Campbell, of Kristin Therese Designs! She is serving as the 2024 President of the RESA (Real Estate Staging Association) Minneapolis Area Chapter, a chapter of which she was a founding member in 2016. RESA is a supportive community of entrepreneurs and professionals that strives to elevate professionalism and excellence in real estate staging. Congratulations, Kristin!

There's A Lot to Celebrate in Waconia!

Congratulations to two businesses in Waconia who recently celebrated important anniversaries! Egg-Cetera Café Restaurant is celebrating 20 years of feeding Waconia delicious meals in a hospitable atmosphere, and HomeTown Bank Waconia is celebrating 10 years of community engagement and banking with heart. Thank you for serving our community well and cheers to many more years!

Spring into a Refreshed Smile at Brush Dental Studio

Enhance your spring cleaning by adding a professional teeth cleaning on your to-do list. Elevate your oral care at Brush Dental Studio, a convenient and revitalizing space. Relax in the cozy guest lounge while anticipating personalized services in their spa-like atmosphere, complete with a complimentary comfort menu offering luxurious amenities. Discover a comprehensive range of offerings, including teeth whitening, Invisalign and orthodontics, cosmetic procedures, dental implants, and more, for a complete dental well-being experience.

Scan to read more

Want to be featured?

Photography by Anna Kostochko

Photography by Egg-Cetera Café

Photography by Brush Dental Studio

THIS OLD HOME

I watched a lot of Bob Vila when I was a kid. My dad liked Bob’s show, This Old House. Bob seemed to know everything about everything. And we enjoyed Norm, his insanely knowledgeable carpenter sidekick. I had never heard

an accent quite like Norm’s and it was fun to decipher what he was saying in a manner so exotic to my Midwestern ears. I had no idea what Bob and Norm were talking about when they went on poetic speeches about lumber grades or 60-tooth carbide blades. I was waiting for the big reveal at the end. Bob was pre-HGTV. He was pre-Extreme Home Makeover. He was

Life Minded

pre-TikTok. The projects he worked on took historic research and troubleshooting and creativity and time. Viewers tuned in week after week to see the progress and final result. He made everything look perfect, painstakingly restoring houses to their original grandeur.

We bought our circa 1988 house in 1998. It was described in the real estate flyer as a “charming doll house.” It would be a very good house for dolls since dolls don’t need closet space or mud rooms or convenient electrical outlets. For people however, the house has presented some interesting challenges. And then there are the current homeowners. Us. We are part of the problem because each time we fix one thing, three other things fall apart, and we cannot keep up. A camera-ready house has never been our top priority, and it shows.

If Bob visited my house, he would likely break out into a stress rash. He wouldn’t even know where to begin. My old(ish) house was not particularly well made to start with. I’m sure Bob would have some very reasonable questions for which I have no answers. I’ve spent far too much time questioning choices the original homeowners

Minded

made and have to shake my head at some of my own decisions as well.

Why are all the windows different sizes in the bedrooms?

Why would anyone put carpeting in a dining room?

Who roofed the porch but used no flashing?

Why did we let a group of our 26-year-old friends paint our bedroom while they drank beer?

Why are some of the baseboards oak but others are white? We have remodeled plenty of areas and made cosmetic changes multiple times, like paint and flooring. It’s the fixing of small things we aren’t great at and the problems have gained momentum over time. All the current issues could be remedied with a truckload of money and two truckloads of patience. But I find myself weighing if I would prefer a dazzling set of baseboards or a trip to Paris. Paris edges out baseboards every time. Everywhere edges out baseboards. After I see every inch of the world, I could research molding and trim trends, but I doubt I will want to.

Most recently our doorbell got stuck ON. It went from a painful blaring to a dull buzzing. My husband opened up

COLUMN BY JEN FORTNER

the box to dismantle it. Like on This Old House, we both marveled at the simple yet effective, mysterious inner workings of the doorbell. Then, unlike Bob Vila, we left it disconnected and decided we could survive without a doorbell.

I’m far more sentimental than I am a house perfectionist. A house can be a showpiece but a home is something different, crafted over time with magic. This old home is where twenty-six years of our family memories have unfolded. Our house is comfortable. You can put your feet up. You can’t hurt anything. We can have dogs and toddlers and teenagers over and nothing is too precious. There isn’t a room that can’t be swiftly converted for a game night, a large craft project, or some indoor lacrosse face-offs. We have lived hard in every inch of this space, causing us to hang art over a few imperfections in the drywall.

Someday long in the future, the flyer can read “Charming Doll House For Sale As-Is.” The new owners could hire someone like Bob to bring it back to 1988 glory. Either way, any prospective buyer will need to knock and knock loudly because we are probably inside, putting a dent in something.

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

No Place Like Home

ARTICLE BY LUTIE RONGLIEN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARIA CLAIRE PHOTOGRAPHY

HOW LEE LYN CONSTRUCTION TRANSFORMED ONE FAMILY’S HOUSE INTO THEIR FOREVER HOME

““Remodeling or building a home is a thorough process. It’s important to feel a connection with who you choose.”

It all started with wanting a bigger kitchen.

Greg and Bobbie Stier weren’t sure where to begin. Their 1965-built rambler was missing some of the amenities found in modern homes. They considered several options: remodeling their current home, rebuilding their house entirely, or just selling and buying a larger home.

“We’d lived in the neighborhood for almost 10 years,” Greg says. “We’ve made many friends and settled into the kids’ school. The radius of where we were willing to move was really small, and the market for houses was really competitive, so we decided to remodel.”

The Stiers were ready to do something with their home right before the COVID pandemic hit in early 2020.

“We started the process at a bad time,” Greg says. “We brought in four or five different builders as part of our initial consultation. Some of the builders seemed to be more concerned with making our project bigger for their portfolio versus what we wanted or needed. We received a lot of pressure to increase our budget.”

Some relatives of Greg’s had built a home with Lee Lyn Construction, so he was familiar with their work. He and his wife met with them and realized that Lee Lyn was different from the builders they’d met with before.

“They actually listened to the gripes we had with the house, and they immediately gave us options that were achievable within our budget,” Greg says. “They never once pressured us to increase it.”

Dana Dziuk, owner of Lee Lyn Construction, says it’s important to start early when thinking of remodeling or building so you choose the right builder.

“There are exceptional companies in this field,” Dana says. “Remodeling or building a home is a thorough process. It’s important to feel a connection with who

you choose. I genuinely care not only about transforming your space but also about the emotions brought forth during this process. We set the bar high, ensuring our clients, even years later, are beyond satisfied.”

With the Stiers’ home, Dana says the project changed from one concept to an entirely different one, which reflected what the Stiers really wanted to achieve with their goals and budget. The Stiers knew they needed more space, particularly in their kitchen and master bedroom.

“The real challenge was knowing what we could do within our budget,” Greg says. “We had different wants, and Dana helped us by breaking those down so we could create a plan we were happy with.”

The result is what looks like a new house. Lee Lyn Construction added an addition that spans the entire length of the house (about 50 feet) and bumps out eight feet. The kitchen nearly doubled in size, making room for a lovely island for gathering and entertaining. The master bedroom also doubled in size, adding a walk-in closet and spa-like bathroom with a large shower and heated floors. The entire main floor also got an update, including new floors, trim, and doors. There’s also a new front porch with peaks for added curb appeal.

“It’s truly a home they can enjoy for the rest of their lives,” Dana says. Lee Lyn Construction focuses on the function and day-to-day details that make their clients’ lives easier. One of Dana’s favorite parts of her work is witnessing a client experience something they haven’t before. Some examples are adding a light in the pantry that comes on automatically or putting an outlet in a place for a special appliance or item the client has in mind.

Dana Dziuk

“

But the end result is fantastic. We’re in love with our new house. The new kitchen has inspired everyone in the family to take an interest in cooking.

“It’s the details that make their lives easier and add an extra custom touch,” Dana says. “Trends are fun and exciting, but I focus on what’s going to make the biggest impact in their lives for the investment they’re making.”

The construction of the Stiers’ addition went smoothly and was even done before the four-month timeline Dana promised. While construction was going on, the family stayed in the house.

“A family of four sharing one tiny bathroom and living out of the garage and basement for four months is

challenging,” Greg says. “But the end result is fantastic. We’re in love with our new house. The new kitchen has inspired everyone in the family to take an interest in cooking.”

See the work of Lee Lyn Construction during the Remodelers Showcase April 5 - 7 at 1891 Campfire Drive in Waconia, where they’ve transformed the lower level for the homeowner. If you have a home project in mind, contact Dana at dana@leelynconstruction.com or visit their website at https://leelynconstruction.com/index.htm

What’s New in Waconia

STEP INTO SPRING WITH CHIC HOME DÉCOR FROM NEIGHBORHOOD GEMS

ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER

Reed diffusers at Nice Shirt Co.

The Stash Signature scented candles by Blended Candle Co.

We’re almost there! Spring is just around the bend, and for the motivated and enthusiastic, you know what that means. Spring cleaning, vacation planning, gardening, house projects, and decluttering the car. If you’re reading this and saying to yourself, “Now you’re speaking my language,” go on with your energetic self! But if your entrance into spring is more along the lines of a bear emerging from hibernation… a quiet yawn, a few stretches, and an energetic snack, you might opt for dipping a non-pedicured toe into something simple, a home décor refresh. A touch of color here, a dazzling statement piece there, discovered in a community that makes it so easy. With an array of options to choose from, finding that perfect piece to spruce up your home  and feel productive allows you to effortlessly baby step into this exciting new season.

You go there for soft and comfy, but you can also go there for pretty and aromatic. Is there a spot on your end table that needs “a little something?” Does the corner by the dog’s bed need a little fragrance boost? You’re in luck! Nice Shirt Co. carries charming reed diffusers by Palms, Psalms, and Prosecco, a small woman-owned business in Minnesota. A clean, crisp white, they’ll fit in with any aesthetic, and with scents like Spa Day and Cabin Weekend, you’re sure to have a vacation state of mind in the comfort of your own home.

Ruthie’s House Vintage is a quaint storefront on Waconia’s bustling 1st Street. We don’t know what they’ll have for you today, tomorrow, or next week, but we do

know there’s a unique vintage something or other there with your name on it, and when you see it, you’ll know. Stunning candlestick holders? Maybe. A brass owl? Perhaps. Something unique and amazing? Absolutely.

The Stash is a go-to for many for stylish clothing and accessories, but it’s also the perfect stop for a living room pick-me-up. Blended Candle Co., locally poured soy wax candles, have taken up residence on a few shelves and are a popular pick among customers. What’s more, they’ve created ‘Stash Signature,’ a unique scent that’s only available at The Stash; think clean and light meets every day, then think about adding one of these beautifully crafted candles, adorned with an exquisite logo to the side table in your office.

Keep your decorating close to home with the Minnesota-based brand Juniper Blue Designs, found at Magnolia North Boutique. A colorful and whimsical printed tea towel is a simple yet impactful way to liven up your kitchen. White subway tiles? A pop of Meadow Blue will add a pretty springtime touch. Rich mahogany cabinets? Minnesota Houndstooth will be an exciting contrast. Practical and pretty. A win-win.

Sometimes, all that’s needed is a soft and comfortable splash to get that ‘just refreshed’ feeling. At White Birch House, you’ll find lovely pillows to do just that. A new cushy home accessory or two can elevate your sitting area, brighten up your office, or make your entryway feel a touch more welcoming. Plus, introducing new colors, textures, or prints will also up the ante on your style.

“Nice Shirt Co. carries charming reed diffusers by Palms, Psalms, and Prosecco, a small woman-owned business in Minnesota. A clean, crisp white, they’ll fit in with any aesthetic.”

Turning a Contract Into Connection

UNVEILING THE ENDURING LEGACY OF CHESTNUT REALTY, WHERE RELATIONSHIPS TAKE CENTER STAGE

ARTICLE BY ALISON LEE

Cal Haasken became a realtor in 1973 and started Chestnut Realty, Inc. back in 1981. Despite a few different offices and some building relocations, the broker still holds a place on Chestnut Street in downtown Chaska, where they service the area through a host of 15-20 licensed agents. One of those being the owner’s daughter, Christy [Haasken] Schuler.

Christy grew up in the business, watching her dad, helping in the office, learning the ways of real estate and the components that go into executing a successful sale. Then, in 1993, she joined the family business and became one of the leading faces that has pioneered a presence in the Carver County community for over 50 years.

Since most of you probably haven’t been living under a rock, you know what a rollercoaster the real estate industry has been for the last five years. The shifts in the marketplace, the rise and fall of interest rates, and the numerous resources that give buyers and sellers flexibility and control during the entire process. It’s the type of business that has been completely transformed by technology. The idea that people can buy a home sight unseen and perform every transaction online and virtually is completely different from the

purchasing process 50 years ago. While the internet, its resources, and the evolving technology have afforded this industry to provide even more for its clients and customers, it has also shifted how that connection might affect the contract.

Sometimes, we forget how important face-to-face connection is to not only establish a relationship but to also nurture and sustain it. It’s no different for many business models that focus on exchanges and interactions to reach their desired outcomes.

Christy knows that the conveniences of technology are appreciated by many, but she also knows there’s a detriment in her line of business. There is no mandatory opportunity for the parties involved to meet face to face, sit down, and review the forms and documents together, walk through questions and scenarios, and relate. Time isn’t spent connecting with an expert to build a more intimate, trusting relationship for a significant purchase that is generally the most expensive and meaningful one a person makes in their lifetime.

“A sale is more than a transaction,” says Christy. “We make it about the connection and a relationship that leads to making a person’s dream come true.”

CONTINUED >

“A sale is more than a transaction. We make it about the connection and a relationship that leads to making a person’s dream come true.”

— CHRISTY SCHULER

Modern technologies have also changed how agents familiarize themselves with the industry, getting educated about lending, title work, and all the intricacies of buying and selling. There is less faceto-face interaction for this learning, and therefore, the process can often seem like it’s less relational from the very start. However, Chestnut Realty still enjoys the relationship piece that comes with finding and buying a home. They pride themselves on the personal service that they are still able to offer to those individuals and families who desire the entire transaction to be as intimate and trusting as possible. Buying a home is a team effort that requires exercise from both the seller and the buyer, as well as the other individuals involved in the transaction. It’s an endto-end practice with lots of moving parts, and the relationship with your realtor can often make or break that experience.

Chestnut Realty offers a home process that acknowledges these technological changes and embraces the traditional methods that the company first started with back in 1981. They’re a small business that has been around for a long time; they understand the community, the growth and development, and what buyers are looking for. Their expertise for the area is what sets them apart and the things that have helped them possess loyal longevity!

If you’ve noticed that the mortgage rate fever has seemingly broken (at least for now), and you’re not quite sure where to start with buying your first home, consider contacting the incredible team at Chestnut Realty. They’re truly in the business to do more than help you sell or buy a home. They’re there to build a foundation and a friendship.

Learn more: https://chestnutrealty.com/

From Lens to Listing

CLICK-WORTHY TIPS FROM MARIA CLAIRE PHOTOGRAPHY FOR STUNNING HOME PHOTOS

Capturing beauty is a way of life for Maria Benedict. Since starting her business, Maria Claire Photography, it’s what she has consistently accomplished for numerous clients and a goal she actively pursues every day. “I’ve always had a passion for photography, and it’s been an amazing journey to grow through and discover my potential. There’s always more to learn, and that’s one of my favorite parts.” As the ground thaws and people start getting the itch to sell their homes, Maria steps into the role of teacher. She shares what she’s learned about the importance of finding the right photographer for your property and offers tips on how to showcase it in all its… you guessed it… beauty.

WHAT CRITERIA SHOULD HOMEOWNERS CONSIDER WHEN SEARCHING FOR A PHOTOGRAPHER TO CAPTURE IMAGES FOR THEIR OPEN HOUSES?

I’d say the most important is to hire someone who can capture quality photos with a quick turnaround time. Clear, well-lit, and professionally taken photographs significantly enhance the property’s marketability and impact a buyer’s perception and interest in a property. Choose someone who not only has the technical skills but also understands the unique requirements of real estate photography.

WHICH ANGLES AND KEY FEATURES ARE CRUCIAL TO HIGHLIGHT IN THESE PHOTOGRAPHS?

Showcase the areas people will be spending the most time in. Starting with the main living area, emphasize the layout, natural light, and special features like a fireplace or built-in shelving. Highlight the kitchen, focusing on countertops, appliances, storage spaces, any modern amenities, and the overall functionality of the space. Feature the master bedroom, drawing attention to the size, natural light,

ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARIA CLAIRE PHOTOGRAPHY

Maria Benedict on one of her many travels

and any attached features like an ensuite bathroom or walk-in closet. Finally, the curb appeal with shots of the front and back exteriors is important, as well as spotlighting landscaping, outdoor living spaces, and architectural features.

HOW CAN A CLIENT SET THEIR PHOTOGRAPHER UP FOR SUCCESS?

Make sure everything is clean and organized before your photographer’s arrival. It’s best to tuck away clutter and any personal items. A clean, neutral space allows potential buyers to envision themselves in the home. Be flexible with scheduling to ensure the photographer can capture the home in the best lighting conditions. This might involve scheduling around the time of day when the home receives the most natural light or closer to twilight for stunning exterior shots.

TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOURSELF AND YOUR BUSINESS!

I started my business almost 10 years ago. Aside from real estate, branding, and commercial work, I love capturing pets and people! Working with so many amazing businesses, people, and pets is such a blessing.

I love to travel every chance I get. This year’s favorites were Kauai, Banff, and New Zealand! At home, I enjoy spending time with my loved ones and floofy pets, Damon and Roxy. Damon is an enthusiastic husky who loves to sing and argue. Roxy is a vocal Bengal cat who loves to go on little walks and snuggle by the fireplace. I enjoy living in the moment, and I’m always looking forward to the many adventures that life has to offer. Learn more and see Maria’s incredible work: www.MariaClairePhotography.com

“Be flexible with scheduling to ensure the photographer can capture the home in the best lighting conditions... when the home receives the most natural light or closer to twilight for stunning exterior shots.”

BEHIND the ARTISTRY

ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARIA CLAIRE PHOTOGRAPHY

UNCOVER THE HEARTBEAT OF ARTISTIC VISIONS CABINETRY AND LEARN HOW THEY CAN BRING YOUR PROJECTS TO LIFE

The ‘visions’ that Artistic Visions Cabinetry, an expert custom cabinet shop, brings to life for their clients are nothing short of masterful, but the guiding force that shapes this Mayer-based company’s character is where the real beauty lies. In 1983, when founded by lifelong Victoria resident Charlie Leuthner and his business partner Tom Sohns, Artistic Visions Cabinetry was built with the mission of “keeping old-world craftsmanship alive through work of exceptional quality and beauty.”

Six years ago, when brothers Matt and Tyrone Stenzel purchased it, they were determined to carry on the legacy. “What I love most about the cabinet shop is we have great people working here. They take pride in their work and want to make the homeowner happy with the final product,” Matt shares. And so, when you hire this group of professional craftsmen for your custom cabinetry project, you’ll check all the boxes: a rich history of passion and drive, impeccable work, and a trustworthy team committed to excellence.

We took a step inside the dynamic world of Artistic Visions Cabinetry with Matt Stenzel to gain valuable insight into what goes on behind their (beautifully customized) doors and how they can help you execute the project of your dreams.

WHAT ARE THE CURRENT TRENDS IN CABINETRY?

We still see quite a bit of white-painted cabinets even though the national trends are going away from this. We’re seeing two-tone painted or a combination of painted and natural finished cabinets, and white oak is probably the most requested wood material. Interestingly, we had a couple of projects recently that incorporated wicker panels! As for cabinet design, we still see a lot of face frame and frameless, or Euro-style, and I’m seeing more inset framed cabinets in the recent home shows than in years past. They’re the hardest to make, but they’re beautiful and are my personal favorite.

WHAT ARE SOME EXAMPLES OF THE CUSTOMIZATION THAT YOU OFFER?

We are a full custom cabinet shop. We make our own doors and dovetail drawers in-house, allowing us complete control over quality. One of our unique specialties is our capability to make curved pieces. We’ve made some unique and great-looking range hoods, center islands, and bar valences in the past year or so that have curved elements in them.

WHAT DESIGN FEATURES CAN HELP WITH OPTIMIZING STORAGE SPACE?

There are so many good options to optimize your cabinet space. Spice racks can be displayed in a horizontal pull-out drawer, vertically in an upper cabinet pull-out, or on the back side of a hinged door. The best option will depend on the rest of your cabinet space. One of the most innovative features I’ve seen recently is a solution for the blind storage space on an inside corner. It’s much better than a lazy Susan because it fills the cabinet more fully. The shop made a Murphy bed for my home with full-size drawers on each end and a middle panel that folds down to a desk. This way, it functions as a home office in addition to being another bed in the house. A single piece of cabinetry that serves multiple purposes optimizes your entire living space.

HOW CAN A POTENTIAL CUSTOMER BEST PREPARE FOR A MEETING WITH YOUR TEAM?

Come with pictures of what you like! The internet and home magazines have a wealth of ideas and photos of design elements. It’s also helpful for us to know the approximate size of the rooms, including ceiling height, or to see a blueprint/floorplan. We can also meet at your home and get measurements while there. Early in the meeting process, share your budget expectations so we can head in the right direction for the best design to meet your budget. (Tip: The cost of the projects you see on HGTV or other shows on TV are not for custom cabinets.)

WHAT WOULD YOU TELL SOMEONE LOOKING TO UPDATE, REPLACE, OR INSTALL CABINETS IN THEIR HOME?

Get help! You can work with an interior designer to help you define your style or search through pictures on the internet or in magazines to find a look you love. Then, we can guide you on the best combination of cost, quality, and design to make your “Artistic Visions” a reality.

Learn more:

https://www.avcabinets.com/

ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARIA CLAIRE PHOTOGRAPHY

Prep Picture Perfect

ELEVATE YOUR OUTDOOR SPACE WITH EXPERT GUIDANCE FROM PICTURE PERFECT LANDSCAPES & DESIGNS

The vernal handbook doesn’t specify spring cleaning solely as an indoor activity, so while you’re busy checking off toy purge and closet organizing on your to-do list, perhaps this year it’s time to dive into a project that’ll allow for more garden-fresh oxygen in your lungs and bragging rights in your repertoire, a makeover of the yard variety.

“Bring pictures of ideas and looks you like, such as colors, shapes, sizes of entertaining areas, etc., along with a list of goals for your project. It’s just as important to share pictures of what you don’t like as well.”

Picture Perfect Landscapes & Designs specializes in design-build projects of any size, but their focus and expertise also extend to delivering quality work and high customer satisfaction. “Our strength is in our employees,” Don Washburn, owner of Picture Perfect, shares. “Some have been with us for many years, and they take great pride in their work.” That dedication and skill are what bring their clients back time and time again and what solidifies Don’s team as the experts in preparing you for a productive and informative meeting with a landscape designer as you gear up for a springtime lawn lift.

1. Bring pictures of ideas and looks you like, such as colors, shapes, sizes of entertaining areas, etc., along with a list of goals for your project. It’s just as important to share pictures of what you don’t like as well.

2. Your city office can provide a survey of your property, which will show easements, setbacks, and possible areas where structures aren’t allowed. This is beneficial to bring along to your meeting.

3. If you live in an association, check any restrictions you may have.

4. Have a budget in mind and be willing to share it. This is one of the most challenging things for an owner to do, but it will help the designer tailor the design and materials to that budget and work to create a schedule to complete it in stages if needed.

5. On average, a design meeting takes about an hour, so set aside enough time to discuss the project and don’t expect it to start right away. Most reputable companies are booked out in advance, so start planning early or in the off-season.

6. All decision-makers in the home should attend the meeting, but before that, they should discuss the project to ensure they share the same vision.

Don also points out that it’s very important to research the company you’re meeting with. Designers should have a degree in horticulture or landscape design and understand construction details, and the company needs to be fully insured and licensed. Learn more: http://pictureperfectland.com

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

MARCH 1ST

Spring Flower Show

Minnesota Landscape Arboretum 9:00 AM

Escape the cold and immerse yourself in a celebration of vibrant color, rich textures, enchanting fragrance and lush, green floral vignettes at the Arboretum's Spring Flower Show through March 10! Enjoy special events, including a Tea Party with a selection of traditional teas and tea sandwiches, soup, pastries, and other delightful treats or explore the Mosaics & Mirrors exhibit by artist Shelley Beaumont. Learn more: https://arb.umn.edu/

MARCH 2ND

Open Gym at Laketown Gymnastics

SCHRAM VINEYARDS

AWARD WINNING WINES

WINE CLUB

PRIVATE EVENTS

WINE TASTINGS

Laketown Gymnastics | 6:30 PM

Laketown Gymnastics hosts an Open Gym night every Saturday from 6:30pm to 8:30pm. Individuals 6 and older of all skill levels can come bounce around on their spring floors, trampolines and jump into the foam pit. Take a turn on the balance beams or show off your strength on the bars! Parkour and Ninja equipment is available, depending on coach availability. $15 per participant and pre-registration is required.  https:// www.laketowngym.org/opengym

MARCH 9TH

Muffins with Paw Patrol's Marshall at Little Roos

Little Roos MN | 9:00 AM

If you know a little one who loves Paw Patrol you won't want to miss the Muffins with Marshall event at Little Roos MN! Kids will enjoy an hour of fun with brunch (banana or orange, blueberry muffin, & juice) and activities, including  Paw Patrol Coloring Sheet, A Paw Patrol Themed

certification mark, and the CFP® certification mark (with plaque design) logo in the United States, which it authorizes use of by individuals who successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements. Guarantees based on the financial strength and claims-paying ability of Thrivent. Thrivent is the marketing name for Thrivent Financial for Lutherans. Insurance products issued by Thrivent. Not available in all states. Securities and investment advisory services offered through Thrivent Investment Management Inc., a registered investment adviser, member FINRA and SIPC, and a subsidiary of Thrivent. Licensed agent\producer of Thrivent. Registered representative of Thrivent Investment Management Inc. Advisory services available through investment adviser representatives only. Thrivent.com/disclosures. Insurance products, securities and investment advisory services are provided by appropriately appointed and licensed financial advisors and professionals. Only individuals who are financial advisors are credentialed to provide investment advisory services. Visit Thrivent.com or FINRA’s BrokerCheck for more information about our financial advisors.

At OBGYN West, you will find a provider that will be with you every step of the way. Maintaining strong, caring relationships with our patients is important.

Our providers offer personalized compassionate care for all your women’s healthcare needs.

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events

Craft, and Photo Op with Marshall! Tickets are $15 per child. Learn more:  https:// littleroosmn.com/collections/event

MARCH 13TH

The Grater Good Cheese & Wine Pairing

Schram Vineyards Winery & Brewery | 6:00 PM

Green eggs and ham? Nope! Green cheese and wine! Celebrate St. Patrick's Day early with green cheeses & delicious wines! Enjoy this unique class as local dairy farmer, The Grater Good, guides you through a wine and cheese pairing experience. Cheese from local cheese mongers and a flight of curated Schram Vineyards wines are included. Learn more and register for the event at:  https://www. schramvineyards.com/events

MARCH 16TH

Luck O' the Lake Run

Downton Excelsior | 7:30 AM

Embrace the Irish spirit at this year's Luck O' the Lake! Don't miss this community-favorite St. Patty's Day event as participants race along the scenic shores of Lake Minnetonka in a 5k and 1-mile run. End the race at Excelsior Brewing Company and enjoy a locally brewed beer while watching a magician and Rince na Griene Irish Dancers.  https:// www.excelsiorlakeminnetonkacham ber.com/luck-o-the-lake/

MARCH 29TH

Easter Eggstravaganza

Watertown City Hall | 9:00 AM

The Watertown Area Chamber of Commerce hosts their annual spring celebration on Saturday, March 30 at Watertown City Hall. From 9am to 12pm bring the whole family for a fun afternoon of activities, including pictures with the Easter Bunny, face painting, live animals, coloring contest, crafts, jelly bean contest, cookies, games and more! Learn more about the event here:  https:// www.watertownareachamber.com/ events/2018/4/14/easter

As a seasoned realtor, I bring extensive experience representing clients both with selling and buying at various stages in their real estate ownership journey

I represent many types of buyers Whether they are first timers, upsizing, downsizing or investment buyers I’ve helped them all.

With the extensive details to understanding the precise coordination needed is a big key when selling and buying a new home and I am happy to give advice to help along the way!

I also provide a service to assist my investment clients in the filling of their rental properties with quality tenants by doing the advertising & marketing of the property, pre-screening to fit the property with desired owner requirements, showings and then providing an application for a full tenant screenings, complete all lease documents and finally the collection of the deposit and first months rent

Whatever your real estate needs may be, I am happy to provide you the best service every step of the way!