WE CHECK OUT THE LATEST FALL FASHIONS
PLUS WHERE TO GET YOUR HOMECOMING GEAR TO CHEER ON THE WACONIA WILDCATS!
Signature You
I hope this letter finds you inspired and ready to embrace the beauty of self-expression.
Style is such an extraordinary part of life—it’s far more than the clothes we wear or the accessories we choose. Style is woven into every detail of our existence, from the way we decorate our homes to the art and music we enjoy, the books we read, and even how we interact with the world around us. It’s the unique thread that creates the tap estry of who we are.
What makes style so captivating is its deeply personal nature. It evolves alongside us as we explore new interests, embrace our quirks, and express what we value most. It’s a language without words, a powerful tool for connection that can bridge differences and spark shared understanding.
Here in Waconia and Victoria, we’re fortunate to have endless opportunities to celebrate and explore style. Whether it’s through visiting local boutiques, supporting creative entrepreneurs, or simply drawing inspiration from our vibrant culture, there’s so much to ignite your creativity and lift your spirit.
This month, I encourage you to think of style as an authentic expression of yourself. The most beautiful style is one that reflects who you truly are—your passions, your story, your individuality. And the incredible thing is that no one else in the world can replicate that.
So go ahead, celebrate your unique style. Whether you’re exploring new trends, blending classic elements, or creating something entirely original, let this issue inspire you to embrace the power of self-expression.
Here’s to being unapologetically and uniquely you!
Cheers!
MATT SHAEFFER, PUBLISHER @WACONIACITYLIFESTYLE
September 2025
PUBLISHER
Matt Shaeffer | matt.shaeffer@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Lauren Beaubaire | lauren.beaubaire@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Emily McKeever, Alison Lee, Lauren Beaubaire
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Trevor Jager
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Zach Miller
LAYOUT DESIGNER Meredith Wilson
Hannah Leimkuhler
QUALITY
Pictured: Bryan Haasken
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
Photos 1-7: Giddy up! It was the 19th Annual Waconia Open, and this year’s theme was Wild West! And the participants did not disappoint, bringing the best of frontier fashion. Players enjoyed games, a BBQ, drawings & prizes, a best-dressed contest, and a silent auction, all to support the community and Waconia Chamber of Commerce.
business monthly
Choose Artistic Visions Cabinetry for Every Room in Your Home
Working on your fall home projects? When you hire Artistic Visions Cabinetry, known for their exceptional work on kitchen cabinets, don’t forget—they don’t just do kitchens! They create beautiful custom cabinets and designs for bathrooms, entertainment centers, fireplaces, home offices, and so much more. So when you’re done remodeling your kitchen, what’s next on the list? Take a look at their portfolio of stunning masterpieces and start planning your next home project today! https://www.avcabinets.com/
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Victoria’s New Fire Station Set for 2026
June was an exciting month for the city of Victoria as it celebrated breaking ground on a new fire station set to open in 2026. The fire department has served this community for over 110 years, so this new state-of-the-art fire station is more than a modern facility equipped with energy-efficient features, built-in training spaces, and more; it's a symbol of the department's lifelong dedication to service. Congratulations on this well-deserved new home!
Celebrate Hope and Healing with The Grief Club of Minnesota
The Grief Club of Minnesota is hosting its 5th annual Healing Hearts Soiree on Thursday, September 18th. This powerful event will honor the 5 years The Grief Club of Minnesota has been honored to uphold their mission of delivering compassionate care through programs and support services for grieving children, teens, young adults, and their caregivers. Grab your tickets or donate to this incredible cause here. https://secure.qgiv.com/event/griefclub2025
Photography by Artistic Visions Cabinetry
Photography by The Grief Club of Minnesota
What you can expect to see in fashion this fall .
ARTICLE BY ALISON LEE
Fringe, Florals, and Furs
We’ve gone straight to the fashionable source to see this season’s styles and learn which looks have made their way from runway to retail. Eleece Pink, owner of The Stash of Waconia, has loved fashion since she was a little girl. And now that she can curate the inventory in her own boutique, she’s passing along her expertise and love of fashion to help women of all ages walk out with something they love. She shares with us what you can expect to see this fall season – in stores and on the streets.
STYLE
Love it or hate it, the 80s are having a resurgence, and shearling has returned. Over the decades, furs moved from a status symbol of affluence and favor to something that is fashionable and fun. This style has an aesthetic of its own, and faux furs are bridging the gap between ethics and luxury. They’re plush, some might argue they’re practical, and they’re proving to hold the spotlight on fashion once again.
Animal prints have often straddled the line between luxe and loud, fading in and out of the spotlight over the years. It’s a design that can jazz up a simple outfit or scream a bold statement from head to toe. Whether you’ve been hoping to see its comeback or you happily discarded this trend, it’s back. This time, with a little more attitude. Casual or chic, expect to see cheetah, leopard, zebra, or snakeskin in sneakers, tees, dresses, skirts, and coats.
Another print that is trending this fall is florals; expressive and artistic impressions, dramatic features, textures, and colorful combinations. Florals inspire a soft, romantic look. They pair well with pretty much anything and allow you to add a feminine touch to your fashion.
If solid colors are your preferred pick, look for earthy tones this season. Lots of browns; caramel, mocha, and mousse, and muted shades of green like fern and moss, and then a few bolder hues in deep reds and purples. Colors that complement and coordinate, and look good on nearly every skin tone.
STATEMENT
Move over minimalism. Patterns, textures, and details are all having their moment. Expect to see layers, ruffles, and accessories that will make a statement. Shoes with a pointy toe and fancy footwork – think feathers, bows, and beads. And handbags
with fringe, tassels, and charms. Remember when chunky jewelry was all the rave? Well, it’s staging a comeback and replacing delicate strands. Keep the look polished by remembering to balance the visual weight if you’re pairing necklaces, earrings, bracelets, or rings.
STASH
Trends come and go, and if your own style stretches beyond a season, you can often pull out previous pieces and pair them with something new to complete an on-trend look. If you’re not someone who follows a trend and would prefer to just fall into your own, Eleece suggests investing in a really good pair of jeans. It’s the most versatile piece of clothing. You can dress jeans up or down, wear them with boots or heels, layer with a fringe jacket, or simply accessorize to make a statement. You can’t go wrong with denim; it’s always in season.
If you’re in need of some industry insight or want help picking out something new, step into The Stash for a friendly face and affordable fashion, and step out with something fun for the fall! thestashstyle.com
Eleece Pink, owner of The Stash of Waconia
What’s New in Waconia
RAH RAH RAH! CELEBRATE HOMECOMING WITH NICE SHIRT CO.’S WILDCAT WEAR
ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER
As the community lines the streets and fills the stands the week of September 22nd for Homecoming festivities, the sea of purple and gold will be nothing short of electric. Before you catch that parade candy and witness a Wildcats win, you’ll need some spirit wear, because showing up in anything less is such a rookie move. If you want quality and charm, not to mention oh-so-soft materials, then lace up your purple and gold tennies (we know you’ve got ‘em) and take a walk down 1st Street to Nice Shirt Co. At this quaint and homey boutique, owner Brooke Struck offers a curated selection designed with hometown pride, inclusivity, and comfort in mind. Inside, you’ll find service with a smile and everything you’ll need to take on Homecoming week with style.
WHAT INSPIRED THIS SEASON’S WILDCAT SELECTION?
This season’s gear is all about combining timeless school spirit with a fresh, bold look. We wanted pieces that work in the stands on a Friday night but are also wearable every day. We leaned into vintage varsity vibes and, of course, plenty of purple and gold.
WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE NEW PIECES THIS FALL?
We’re excited to add quarter zips and Comfort Colors tees into the mix this season. They’re the perfect blend of comfort and style—great for layering, and easy to wear all season long. We’ve also added new Wildcat earrings and necklaces to our lineup—fun, spirited accessories that are perfect for any day of the week.
DO YOU HAVE ANY EXCLUSIVE ITEMS FOR HOMECOMING WEEK?
We’re bringing in game day bib overalls for both youth and adults. They’re limited in quantity, so be sure to snag yours early!
ARE ANY OF THE ITEMS LOCALLY MADE OR DESIGNED BY LOCAL ARTISTS?
We’re collaborating with Karma Stacks, which is based in Victoria, to create exclusive Wildcat stack bracelets. Karma
Stacks shares a charitable mission similar to ours, so when you shop, you’re also supporting a local cause.
WHAT ARE SOME FAN FAVORITES FOR THIS SEASON THAT YOU BRING BACK EVERY YEAR?
Our fleece-lined Bella Canvas sweatshirts are always a hit—they’ve become a Homecoming staple.
HOW DOES NICE SHIRT CO. CONTRIBUTE TO LOCAL SCHOOL SPIRIT?
We love getting in the spirit! We extend our hours so fans can swing by after school or work to get what they need, and we have our shelves stocked with easy graband-go spirit gear. We’re also planning a spirit wear sale leading up to the big game. Expect freebies, discounts, and some surprises for our Wildcat fans.
WHAT DOES SCHOOL SPIRIT MEAN TO YOU AND YOUR SHOP?
School spirit is about connection—students, families, alumni, and fans all feeling like they belong to something bigger. We’re honored to create gear that people wear with pride to celebrate their school and their town.
“We’re collaborating with Karma Stacks, which is based in Victoria, to create exclusive Wildcat stack bracelets.”
WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE PART OF HOMECOMING WEEK IN THIS TOWN?
Hands down—the parade! The energy, the creativity, the candy, the band… it brings the whole community out and sets the tone for the game.
WHAT’S A WILDCAT MUST-HAVE FOR SOMEONE NEW IN TOWN?
Start with a classic Wildcat tee or hoodie—it’s the unofficial uniform around here. Pair it with a game day hat or some spirit wear accessories, and you’ll fit right in with the Wildcat crowd. niceshirtco.com
Karma Stacks Wildcat bracelets
A LOOK AT WACONIA’S TEAM, TOWN, AND TIME-HONORED HOMECOMING
Hometown Highlights
ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY TREVOR JAGER
“
Our players love the Homecoming night atmosphere with our great fans.
If you’ve ever attended a football game in Waconia, you know it’s sort of a thing around here. With pom poms in hand and game day outfits on full display, if hometown pride had a look, it would be the Wildcats huddled under the electric stadium lights as the packed crowd roars from the bleachers. And if you really want to see the community come alive, walk through the gates on Homecoming. Head coach Corey Shea experiences this electric atmosphere from the best seat in the house – the sidelines – so we asked him what stands out about this year’s team, how the community rallies around them, and why Homecoming holds such a special place in Waconia.
“Each new season brings a lot of excitement.”
Coach Shea explains that this year’s team will be a young one with numerous new starters across several position groups. He applauds the coaches and experienced players who’ve been putting in a tremendous amount of work to get everyone ready for the season. “We’ve got a group of guys that have been working hard throughout the offseason, and it’s always fun to see them come together as a team in the fall.”
Shea emphasizes that the goal each year is to be an academic all-state team and compete for championships. “We want to bring a championship mindset and physical toughness to every practice and game, while also building camaraderie and having fun.”
“Our players love the Homecoming night atmosphere with our great fans.” The team always looks forward to the fun activities planned throughout Homecoming week. While they don’t change up their approach much, Shea says that they always plan for
a good week of practice and game preparation. The community can expect high energy and unmatched pride when the wall of purple and gold jerseys comes thundering down the street during the annual Homecoming parade. As everyone heads to the stadium, it’s a reminder that win or lose, the love for the game and the tradition runs deep.
“The Waconia community and our parent support have been outstanding.” The non-profit organization, Waconia TouchDown Club, established to promote a fun and exciting football experience for Waconia football players, coaches, and fans, has been a staple in the program for a long time. “The goals of this group are to provide support to the coaches, promote the football program, and enrich the experience of our student-athletes.” From organizing team carb feeds and post-game meals to putting on the end-of-year banquet, organizing the Tackle Cancer Night, and so much more, Shea says the Waconia TouchDown Club’s support has been tremendous.
“Football is a game that can bring the community together.”
If you ask any current or former high school football player, they’ll tell you it’s a sport that creates a true sense of belonging. “We want our guys to take away great memories with their best friends, working toward a common goal, and having a lot of fun playing a great game.” Shea says football instills discipline, encourages classroom success, and builds unity. “Our players will experience success and adversity throughout their journey as a Waconia Wildcat. We’re working to build leaders that will have a positive impact on our great community.”
Where Waconia comes to play
How a humble sidewalk sale became the town’s most beloved celebration. Nickle Dickle Day is here!
Get ready for Waconia’s most anticipated event of the year—Nickle Dickle Day! Mark your calendars for Saturday, September 13, as downtown Waconia transforms into a bustling hub of festivities, community spirit, family fun, and, of course, great local deals.
It’s the festival's 64th year, and boy, has Nickle Dickle Day evolved from its humble origins. This event has a rich history rooted in local entrepreneurship and community camaraderie. In an interview by Christine Fenner, President of the Waconia Chamber of Commerce, with Paul Melchert, one of the original founders of Nickle Dickle Day, Paul shares that the initial idea originated at a meeting of local business people at the Waco Café, which we now know and love as the Iron Tap. Paul says that at those meetings, business owners were trying to brainstorm ways to bring more foot traffic to Waconia businesses. With that goal in mind, the group decided to offer great promotions, setting up a few card tables on the sidewalk and laying the groundwork for a festival that now draws an anticipated 30,000 people.
The festival’s name is also steeped in history. While other cities were hosting “Crazy Days,” the business community of Waconia wanted something that better fit with the charm of the Waconia community. That’s when the idea
ARTICLE BY LAUREN BEAUBAIRE
for “nickel” promotions first took shape. The town came together around this idea, with bars serving beer for just a nickel and churches joining in selling Sloppy Joes for five cents. The “Dickle” portion of the name comes from the German word "dicker," which means "bargaining." And so, the name Nickle Dickle Day was born.
Christine also chatted with Kim Mackenthun, another legend in Nickle Dickle Day’s history, about his favorite memory of those early Nickle Dickle Days. Kim shares that one of the most memorable moments was the ping pong ball prize drop, where ping pong balls were dropped from a plane, and each ball had a prize printed on it. The chaos that ensued was a sight to see, with people scrambling onto rooftops to collect ping pong balls that had landed in gutters or on roofs.
While there’s no more ping pong drop, since the festival first began over six decades ago, Nickle Dickle Day has grown, with
day-of events also evolving. The festival has since added a Nickle Dickle Eve street dance to kick off the festivities. This year, you can show off your best moves to a great performance by the band IV Play.
The next day starts with the Nickle Dickle Run, hosted by Waconia Community Ed, where you can race in a 10K run or a 5K walk/run. Kids in grades five and under can participate in a Tickle Run. After the run, fuel up with great food vendors, shop over 140 vendor booths, brimming with handmade jewelry, paintings, and unique treasures, check out the Classic Car Show with nearly 500 antique and collector cars lining the streets, or join in on the 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament hosted by St. Joseph Catholic School.
Another crowd favorite is the Book Sale at the Waconia Public Library, where hundreds of books are available for purchase, or flock to the Rotary’s Duck Races, where kids and the kids-at-heart cheer on nearly 80 brightly-colored rubber ducks as they race down City Square Park’s makeshift river.
“Kim shares that one of the most memorable moments was the ping pong ball prize drop, where ping pong balls were dropped from a plane.”
Nickle Dickle Day isn’t just another festival; it’s Waconia at its best. It’s where the whole town comes together to celebrate community, support local shops, and just have a blast. From duck races and handmade crafts to music and good eats, the day is packed with all the things that make Waconia feel like home: fun, friendliness, and a whole lot of local pride. Check out the full festival schedule: www.destinationwaconia.org/nickledickleday
Photography by Savvy Photage | V @savvyphotage
Homecoming at Crown College
As leaves fall and the pumpkin-spiced lattes flow, schools across the country kick off festivities that honor a tradition more than 100 years old – Homecoming. Crown College hosts a vibrant day filled with spirited traditions and playful activities that radiate Polar pride and display the heart of its lifelong authentic community. We spoke with Dr. Brandon Schmidly, Vice President of Advancement at Crown College, to get the action-packed details about a memorable day thoughtfully designed to bring the community together through fun, tradition, and heartfelt connection.
“We’re thrilled to keep strengthening the connection between Crown and our surrounding community,” says Brandon. “While higher education across the country is facing a difficult time, Crown College is on the rise. It’s something we are so grateful for.” He goes on to share that their students serve locally, work in area businesses, and volunteer with churches
Celebrating school spirit, community, and a day full of unforgettable moments
and nonprofits. Their graduates go on to become skilled members of the workforce with a biblical worldview, so a key goal of Homecoming is to welcome the community and share the pleasure of their beautiful campus.
“Homecoming is where Crown’s past and present come together. Our students get a chance to learn from those who came before them, and our alumni get to see how their legacy is still shaping lives today.” For the community, the event is an open invitation. “We’ve met so many locals who have driven past the campus for years without ever turning in. We want people to come see what we’re about.”
From the moment you turn onto College View Drive, you’ll know you’re at the start of something memorable. “Homecoming is always a big deal, but this year, it’s a bit more serious. We’re hosting one of our biggest rivals, the University of Northwestern, in three athletic events: women’s soccer, men’s soccer, and football.” Last year, Crown swept their Homecoming soccer games against the Eagles, but fell short in football. “This fall, they’re coming back to our campus for all three, and let’s just say, we’re ready.”
In addition to the three games vs. Northwestern, the day begins with Polars Women’s Volleyball vs. North Central at noon. But there’s more to it than just the games. Brandon explains that while the staff manages the day’s main events, they also make sure that students are both involved and free to enjoy it all. “They show up strong as athletes, fans, and organizers.” In recent years, this group of event planners has become even more intentional about making Homecoming inclusive for all generations of alumni and more welcoming for local families. “It’s all about connection, and it shows.”
This year, Polars fans are asked to “Wear Black and Back the Team!” “Whether you’re coming home or coming by for the very first time, we’d love to have you here. Let’s fill the hill, fill the stands, and make this Homecoming one to remember.”
Mark your calendars for Saturday, October 4!
SPORTS:
• Women’s Volleyball vs. North Central - Noon in the Crown College Athletic Center
• Men’s Soccer vs. the University of Northwestern - 1:15 p.m. in the Old National Bank Stadium
• Women’s Soccer vs. the University of Northwestern - 3:30 p.m. in the Old National Bank Stadium
• Football vs. the University of Northwestern, 7:15 p.m. in the Old National Bank Stadium
COMMUNITY EVENTS:
• Guided tours of Crown’s historic Main building (originally a Jesuit monastery)
• Archive displays highlighting Crown College’s history
• Lunch is available for purchase in the Dining Center from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
• The brand-new Cub Zone with inflatables, mini golf, and more - open from Noon to 7:00 p.m.
• Miniature football and soccer fields for aspiring little athletes
• The Polar March, a high-energy parade of all of Crown’s athletic teams before kickoff
• Dinner is available for purchase at the outdoor food tent from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
• Photos with Polars mascot, TUNDRA, are available throughout the day
• As always, our highly-rated Disc Golf course will be open
All the details, schedules, and registration for Alumni can be found at www.crown.edu/alumni/homecoming. Community members don’t need to register, just show up! A $10 gate fee covers access to all games and activities for the day.
Concrete Style
Boll Custom Concrete brings expert craftsmanship and a hometown touch to create beautiful, lasting spaces around your home
ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER
A stylish living room or bathroom is so last year – or maybe it’s just time to spread the flair beyond the usual areas in your home. In Minnesota, when it comes to family get-togethers or lounging at home, if it’s over 50 degrees, we’re taking the party outside. When we’re storing our beloved tools or finally setting up that dreamy man cave, we’re doing it right, or we’re not doing it at all. That’s why a polished, durable, and high-quality space – crafted by Boll Custom Concrete for both indoor and outdoor living – isn’t just a nice-tohave, it’s essential.
Jesse Boll, owner of Boll Custom Concrete, has worked in the industry for over 20 years. When his aspirations led him to start his own business, he appreciated the freedom it gave him to focus on what mattered most:
offering personalized service and building a company that reflects his values. “It’s important to me that everyone I work with gets treated with respect and that all customers receive a high-quality finished product,” Jesse shares. As a hands-on professional, he believes that quality is more important than quantity, and if you ask around, his customers see it reflected in every detail of his work.
When you sign on with his team, a team Jesse holds to high standards through a rigorous hiring process, you’ll find him leading the charge at your residence, ensuring everything meets his meticulous expectations. “To begin the process, I meet the customer on location to discuss their vision as well as offer advice and address any concerns they may have.” Jesse’s team will then take measurements, assist with color and stamp design (there are 50 colors and 29 stamp designs to choose from, so selecting your favorites will be a fun challenge!), and provide an estimate. If you’re on a budget, Jesse emphasizes that it’s perfectly feasible to achieve quality and sustainability without additional enhancements. “Not every outdoor living space or remodel has to be extravagant. Most of our projects are being done by everyday families in everyday neighborhoods.”
Boll Custom Concrete specializes in flatwork–patios, driveways, garages, shed floors, steps, basements, and more. And if you think it’s “just concrete,” you’d be very wrong. “Choosing colors and stamping finishes is where homeowners can really weave their style into the project.” Stamping creates a very specific
texture, pattern, or visual effect on the surface of the concrete and, depending on your choice, you can create the look of wood, slate, granite, brick, and so much more.
“The combinations of color and stamping create endless outcomes.” According to Jesse, right now, many families are choosing stamped concrete for their patios and colored concrete for their driveways. Picture framing – when the finish of the outer edges is different than the main surface – and broom finish – when a broom is dragged across the surface, creating fine lines and texture – are what customers are choosing for their entryways, sidewalks, and gathering places for family and friends.
Not only does Boll Custom Concrete specialize in expert concrete work that combines precision and flawless style, but they also specialize in attention to detail, exceeding expectations, and a deep passion for their customers and their work.
“It’s invigorating to create a product that’s new and unique every time, and inspiring to see homeowners excited and eager for their new space, particularly when it comes to outdoor living spaces.” Jesse loves that each homeowner has a specific vision unique to their lifestyle and is committed to ensuring there’s a design to meet everyone’s needs, no matter what chapter of life they’re in.
“It’s an honor to help families see their vision come to life.” Underscoring that great concrete is always in style, just like the dedicated people behind the work.
bollcustomconcrete.com
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Conquer THE COURSE
SEPTEMBER 6TH
Nordic Music Festival
Lion’s Park, Victoria | 10:00 AM
Don’t miss this great festival! Nordic dancers, singers, instrumentalists, bands, and more will perform along with a Viking Village and silent auction. Check out the Nordic artists and crafters, showcasing their unique pieces, which will be available for purchase. There will also be plenty of good food, featuring Danish pastries, Norwegian lefse, and food trucks. Best of all, admission and parking are free. https://www. sofn.com/event/nordic-music-festival/
SEPTEMBER 13TH
Nickle Dickle Day
Downtown Waconia | 8:00 AM
Nickle Dickle Day is one of those special days in Waconia. Shop and take in all the great food and drink deals with friends, grab the family to watch duck races and the 3 on 3 basketball tournament, run in a Nickle Dickle Day race, peruse the library book sale, listen to live music, and so much more. Don’t miss one of Waconia’s best days! Destination Waconia.org/NickleDickleDay
OCTOBER 4TH
Homecoming at
Crown College
Crown College
It’s Homecoming at Crown College! This year, experience the new Cub Zone with inflatables, a dunk tank, mini golf, and more! Other events include: guided tours, miniature football and soccer fields for kids, The Polar March, and Disc Golf. For $10, enjoy access to all the athletic events: Women’s Volleyball, Women’s Soccer, Men’s Soccer, and Football. See the full schedule: https://www. crown.edu/alumni/homecoming/
