Maple Grove Magazine - March 2023

CITY CREATIVE

MAPLE GROVE ARTS CENTER EMBRACES A BROAD PALETTE OF TALENT

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MARCH/APRIL 2023

Whether a house is decorated with one-of-a-kind pieces or it’s full of the hustle and bustle of family, there’s no place like home.

“Home is where you start from.” —T.S. Elliot

DEPARTMENTS

10 — City Creative Maple Grove Arts Center embraces a broad palette of talent.

12 — Haute Home Refresh your spaces with trending products from The Rustic Shack.

14 — Pints and Paddle Pickleball and self-pour beer taps are making their way to Maple Grove.

FEATURES

16 — On the Scent Explore the benefits of essential oils on overall wellbeing

20 — History Refinished Relic Remodels transforms worn furniture into unique, vintage accent pieces.

TASTEMAKERS

30 — A Blooming Bakery

Aani’s Home Bakery sets the course for The Blake School entrepreneur.

4 — Editor’s Letter

7 — Noteworthy

26 — On the Town

32 — Last Glance

Photo: Chris Emeott

Family owned & operated in the Twin Cities since 1951.

The Byes Photo

FROM THE EDITOR

MALENA LARSEN — MALENA@LOCALMEDIA.CO

Even though spring is a time of newness, it’s a season that always makes me feel a little nostalgic. The chirp of black-capped chickadees, a newly bloomed lilac bush and petrichor take me back to my childhood home—the home where my mom homeschooled me, where my brother and I pretended that our couch was a boat taking us out to sea and where my dad would read to me until I fell asleep. Home isn’t just a place to eat and sleep; it’s a place to create memories that come flooding back at spring’s first rain.

Even if you’re like me and memories bloom like flowers on a tree, spring is still a great season to start anew. From spring cleaning to finally adding that new coat of paint in your bathroom to tackling your to-do list, fresh starts can happen right at home. If you’re looking for expert advice or inspiration, you may want to consider checking out the Maple Grove Home Show (page 26). Or if it’s your antique furniture that needs to be revitalized, learn more about Relic Remodels by Shayne on page 20.

No matter what your spring ritual may be, note and cherish those things that bring you back in time. Whether it’s spring cleaning with the family, trying a new hobby or refurbishing your furniture, enjoy your fresh start.

Cheers and happy trails,

Photo: Chris Emeott

publisher

Susan Isay

editor

Malena Larsen

managing creative director

Renée Stewart-Hester

managing editor

Hailey Almsted

digital editor

Madeline Kopiecki

copy editors

Kellie Doherty

Sherri Hildebrandt

staff writers

Zoe Deal

Mollee Francisco

Emily Gedde

Susie Eaton Hopper

Daniel Huss

Malena Larsen

Hanna McDaniels

Kristie Smith

Josie Smith

contributing writers

John F. Farrell III

Lisa Spence-Parsons

Nikki Steele

Laurie Steig

editorial interns

Nicole Berglund

Megan Hegenbarth

editorial advisory board

Brett Angell , City of Maple Grove

Tanya Bradehoft , Osseo Area Schools

Roee Hecht , City of Maple Grove

Heidi Nelson , City of Maple Grove

Amy Seeman , Mezmira

senior managing art director

Sarah Dovolos

art director

Allison Nolden

junior designer

Jamie Klang

lead staff photographer

Chris Emeott

production director

Brittni Dye

production manager

Lisa Stone

production coordinator

Mimi Coz

senior account executives

Brooke Beise

Cynthia Hamre

Sara Johnson

Kathie Smith president

Pete Burgeson

GÁRTHA

WHEN IT COMES TO MARKING ST. PATRICK’S DAY, some folks enjoy a spirited sip to toast the celebration. Need suggestions?

Wine: Try Perseverance zinfandel. (While this is a California maker, the label’s Celtic cross makes it work.) Serve it with lamb, stew or corned beef and cabbage.

Beer: Being a purist, I recommend a stout. Guinness, “the mother milk” of the Emerald Isle, is a must. Also consider Wexford or Murphy’s. For lighter beers, try Harp Lager or Smithwick’s (pronounced smiddicks).

Cider: Magners is the most popular and easiest to find.

Irish Whiskey: You can’t have a true St. Paddy’s Day without a bit o’ whiskey. There are many to choose from, and any of the following are great selections: Bushmills, Jameson, Paddy’s, Powers, Redbreast, Red Locks, The Irishman and Tullamore D.E.W. Each variety features aged, flavored and standard whiskeys.

Photo: Chris Emeott

John F. Farrell III is vice president of sales and merchandising with Haskell’s The Wine People. Find more at haskells.com.

Styling Tips For Your Next Family Photo Shoot

Family photos are a great way to preserve memories with loved ones. Being a personal stylist, I have helped many families with photos. To make sure your family photo session is a success, try some of these styling tips.

Pick a theme unique to your family. For example, you’re big sports fans and have a favorite team. Incorporate that team’s colors or jerseys into your photo. This will encapsulate your group’s unique personality.

Pick one to three colors to thread throughout your group’s clothing choices. Think of it like a plaid blanket. Not all colors have to be the same, but having a few similar shades will help your eyes move throughout the photo and provide unified style. Have people of special interest (like Grandma, for example) in the brightest color.

Try to avoid clothing logos. Name brands on shirts and jackets, for example, can be distracting and can even have reflective properties creating a glare in a photograph.

Planning a family or group photo can feel overwhelming. However, by keeping these suggestions in mind you can make the process a little easier and make a lasting impression for years to come.

Nikki Steele is the owner of Nikki Steele Style. Find more at nikkisteelestyle.com.

Poetry Prompt

Spring is a time of growth and new beginnings. Let inspiration bloom with these poetry prompts:

» What’s the last new thing you tried? How did it go? Would you do it again?

» Write a poem using these three words: hatch, puddle and garden.

» What does it smell like when it rains? What does it remind you of?

» You’re a flower or a tree. What kind are

you and why?

» What’s one of your fondest spring memories?

Quick tip: Let spring weather be your springboard and write your poem outside.

To have your work considered for publication in our pages or on maplegrovemag.com, submit no more than three poems to maplegrovemag@localmedia.co. Please include your name, mailing address and contact information. Submissions must be from current or former Maple Grove residents or those working or attending school in the city.

The Big Finish

Never miss an issue of Maple Grove Magazine with free, anytime access to our digital editions. Full screen viewing on your digital device allows easy cover-to-cover reading. Share your favorite Maple Grove Magazine articles with friends and family.

Brooke Fossey’s debut novel, The Big Finish, delivers a warm, heartfelt and occasionally funny story about growing old and living large told by a wisecracking man named Duffy Sinclair.

Sinclair, 88, and his best friend and roommate, Carl Upton, live at Centennial Assisted Living. Life is quiet, peaceful and a bit boring until the night a young woman falls through their bedroom window with a black eye and alcohol on her breath. The young woman’s name is Josie, and she’s looking for a place to crash to get away from her abusive boyfriend. It turns out, Josie is the granddaughter Upton never knew he had.

Hiding Josie from her boyfriend and management at Centennial Assisted Living becomes a covert mission involving hitchhiking, bar hopping and getting Josie clean from drugs and alcohol. This gives Sinclair something he can look forward to and a new lease on life. With this unlikely friendship, life at Centennial isn’t so dull after all.

The Big Finish might make you feel happy and sad as you connect with the residents. The unexpected ending might leave you smiling.

Laurie Stieg is the associate librarian at Maple Grove Library. Find more to read at hclib.org.

City

Creative Maple Grove Arts Center embraces a broad palette of talent.

By Lise Spence-Parsons

MAPLE GROVE IS A CENTER of a lot of great things—natural spaces, retail venues, community events and more. We’d certainly be remiss if we didn’t include the art scene in the lineup. Its anchor is the Maple Grove Arts Center. Lise Spence-Parsons, president and treasurer of the center, owns Lottie’s Trinkets, has published two books featuring her short stories, is working on a third collection and a full-length novel, and enjoys watercolor painting. She shares her conversation with some local artists, including Val Coopet, Marj Helmer, Jeff Lundeen and Sybil Swanson. —Renée

Stewart-Hester

“I have loved drawing and painting for as long as I can remember,” Coopet says. “During my career as an elementary teacher, I took classes and painted whenever I could. During this time, I fell in love with spontaneity of watercolor over other mediums.” She enjoys working with other artists during open studio time. “I love the feedback, creativity and conversations that grow as we work together,” she says.

“My involvement in art has been a long journey of discovery, full of ups and downs, successes and failures and great learning experiences, and it has been a great ride,” Coopet says. “Joining the Maple Grove Arts Center has been a turning point.”

“Artists … share our unique viewpoints, make observers think and spread joy through our work ... Everyone paints for different reasons, but I paint for the joy I experience when I paint and hopefully for the joy my audience feels,” Coopet says.

Helmer started Maple Grove’s Writers’ Studio, which has published two anthologies, and members are working on memoirs, nonfiction fantasy, mystery and thriller titles and children’s picture books. Her recent endeavors include her book, Mrs. A’s Tea Party

“The art of writing or any art expresses our humanity and encourages creativity and creative thinking and doing,” she says. “Art brings us together to learn and generates community.”

Retired teacher Lundeen is an impressionistic landscape painter. “I am committed to individuality rather than mass production. With that, I am also

committed to getting original oils into the greater public.” In addition to the arts center, he’s shown at several Maple Grove businesses and the Maple Grove Government Center.

Creativity is a process, and Lundeen acknowledges that his artistic outcomes have experienced development. “My art today has matured, and the future allows for unlimited growth,” he says.

Swanson says, “I didn’t start painting until I was 77 years old, proving that it isn’t age that can stop us, but attitude and [lack of] passion [can]. Painting is my passion. Through my art, I hope to convey to people that what seem to be obstacles,

Val Coopet

Jeff Lundeen

they can be overcome.”

“I have evolved from being a fluid art painter to an acrylic landscape painter to oil seascapes and landscapes artist,” Swanson says. “To evolve from brushless paintings to oil paintings, using multiple brushes, has been a significant leap for me. I’m not seeking fame nor fortune but rather to continue the joy of painting [and] to continue to rejoice in all the beauty surrounding us, painting what I see as an artist and putting my view on canvas for others to enjoy.”

Maple Grove Arts Center, 11666 Fountains Drive; 763.370.3003; maplegroveartscenter.org

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Haute Home

Refresh your spaces with trending products from The Rustic Shack.

By Zoe Deal

SPRING IS NEARLY HERE , and while we anticipate budding blooms and warm weather days, it’s not too soon to refresh our homes for the season. Here to help is Melani Amundson of The Rustic Shack, a modern cottage home decor store located in The Shoppes at Arbor Lakes.

“In the spring … just adding a couple new pieces makes a house totally different,” Amundson says. “And it makes people happy, too.”

Amundson started her foray into home goods five years ago in a backyard she-shed, where she crafted sign decor. Upon growing out of that space, she opened a shop in Rogers in 2019, then moved to Maple Grove in March 2022. Now, with a tried-and-true offering of vendors and an array of steady customers, The Rustic Shack is making the modern cottage look accessible through home goods and interior design services.

We spoke with Amundson about some of her favorite products and how she styles them for a clean, natural and warm springtime look.

Wood Risers and Bowls

As painted wood takes a step back, raw and dark wood items are finding their way into every room of the home. One of Amundson’s favorite ways to incorporate this trend is through wood risers. “They’re just perfect if you need a little filler because you can put whatever you want on it,” Amundson says. “It’s kind of fun … because you can change it with the seasons and just keep that one item, but just change out what you put on it.”

Wood risers can be used in every room of the home, from the kitchen island to the bathroom. Amundson loves styling them with a cozy candle, fresh flowers and a little

Photos: The Rustic Shack

sign. Another variation is hand-carved bowls, which can be left empty to collect odd items or styled with prayer beads, fruits or small potted plants.

Cement

White-washed cement has been on trend for a few years now, but Amundson doesn’t see an end in sight. “I think cement is going to be around for awhile. It always has been,” Amundson says. “But you’re seeing a lot more cement in the pots and the candles.” Some of her top ways to use The Rustic Shack’s cement candles and plant pots are as decor on four-season porches and to add texture to white kitchens.

Woven Baskets

Have a corner that feels like it’s missing that something? Amundson loves the versatility of woven baskets, which, depending on their size and one’s taste, could hold blankets, plants and florals or hide clutter, such as cords and toys. “They’re good to put shoes in or throws. Just roll up throws and stick them in there with a pillow,” Amundson says. She also loves seeing them used on the shelf that many homes have above the front door, with seasonal florals or a neutral pillow added for visual interest.

Florals

Though it may not be time for fresh-cut blooms from the garden, it’s never too early to bring out dried and faux florals. Amundson is partial to adding some pops of color amidst the traditional greens. “In the spring, I like tulips … I have some tulips that look and feel real, and those sell right away, too,” Amundson says. It’s a simple way, Amundson shares, to refresh your wood risers, baskets and other home decor mainstays.

The Rustic Shack, 12121 Elm Creek Blvd. N.; 763.442.7859; rusticshack.net

The Rustic Shack Boutique & Interior Design

Dr. Cohen’s professional interests include preventive medicine, infectious diseases, soft tissue surgery and feline health.

Dr. Cohen likes to stay on the pulse of new medical and wellness innovations and is committed to the continuous advancement of veterinary medicine. Dr. Cohen is looking forward to meeting our wonderful clients and their pets!

ACTIVE LIVING

Pints and Paddle

Pickleball and self-pour beer taps are making their way to Maple Grove.

By Malena Larsen

PINTS AND PADDLE , a 40,000-squarefoot venue with self-pour beer, food from Malone’s Bar and Grill and 10 indoor pickleball courts, is projected to come to Maple Grove this fall.

Whether you are an avid pickleball player, you’ve recently picked up the hobby or you’ve always wanted to try the sport but never had the chance, Pints and Paddle is geared toward every level of pickleball player. With 10 indoor courts and two self-pour beer walls, one on the main level and the other on the mezzanine, there’s plenty of space for both playing and pouring.

Along with being inclusive to every type of pickleball player, the venue will cater to different drink preferences. The self-pour tap walls will have beer (both local and domestic), cocktails, seltzers and wine. Menu items from Malone’s Bar and Grill will be prepared and served in-house for post-match fuel ups.

“The goal is to bring more traffic to Maple Grove, as well as provide entertainment to residents,” says assistant community and economic development director Brett Angell. “We’re wanting to bring experiential business to the city.”

According to Angell, the current plan for the building includes a two-level seating area with a taproom and restaurant. There are also plans to include an outdoor patio, a mezzanine overlooking the pickleball courts and private rooms that can be rented for parties and gatherings.

Tim Skaja, part owner of Pints and Paddle, hopes that the venue will appeal to all ages and all types of pickleball players from recreational to league and tournament players. “... It’s a very social activity,” says part owner Tammy Skaja. “You can make it as competitive or as casual as you want.”

The inspiration for Pints and Paddle

was sparked while the husband and wife duo were traveling in the South, where pickleball is already an established and popular sport. On this trip, the Skajas played pickleball and enjoyed a postgame beer at a nearby brewery. They realized they could create a venue that has the best of both of these worlds: Pints and Paddle.

“We thought that this is really something we should bring to Minnesota,” Tim says. “It would need to be an indoor venue, so people can play all year long. We’re long-time Maple Grove residents, so we really wanted to make it happen here.”

Although pickleball has a reputation of being a sport for senior citizens, its reputation and demographic has shifted. In the last several years, it has proven to be a sport for all ages. “Youth are playing more now,” Tim says. “Our target audience is really all ages.”

According to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association, pickleball is America’s fastest growing sport. In just two years (2019 to 2021), participation in the sport grew by nearly 40 percent. With 4.8 million Americans playing the sport and approximately 35,000 pickleball courts across the country, its popularity continues to grow.

“When you play pickleball, it can be younger people playing with older people, women and men can play together,” Tammy says. “It’s a fun and easy group or date night activity.”

Along with the Skajas, there are five other owners involved in the opening of Pints and Paddle, including Christy and Eric Mesenburg, Linsey and AJ Stevens and Nastar Motlagh.

pintsandpaddle.com

Pints & Paddle @pintsandpaddle

@pintsandpaddle

On the Scent

EXPLORE THE BENEFITS OF ESSENTIAL OILS ON OVERALL WELLBEING

For thousands of years, people have touted the power of plant extracts to improve health. More recently, essential oils have gone mainstream with the rise in popularity of holistic health practices and therapies. But what exactly are essential oils and what can they do for you?

Maple Grove’s Jeanne Tierney teaches a class for senior citizens at the Maple Grove Community Center that addresses those two main questions and teaches people how to use the oils safely. “The thing with essential oils is that they’re natural,” she says. “I love that idea.”

Essential oils are made from concentrated plant extracts. They are used for a variety of reasons from aiding in sleep and reducing anxiety to alleviating nausea and lifting moods.

WRITTEN BY MOLLEE FRANCISCO PHOTOS BY CHRIS EMEOTT

After taking an essential oils class herself, Tierney tried a blend of oils, including wintergreen, camphor, peppermint and ylang ylang (among others), to address her chronic back and neck pain. “It gave me so much relief,” she says. “My movement was better.” Later, when stuck with insomnia, Tierney says she tried a lavender blend essential oil and was finally able to rest. “It helped me to relax,” she says.

Now, Tierney is happy to help others find ways essential oils can help them. Since trying the oils herself, Tierney became a representative for doTERRA, but says selling the oils is secondary to helping people. “You can buy nutritious foods, but if you don’t use them, it doesn’t do any good,” she says. “I wanted to help people use [the oils].”

Tierney uses her knowledge to teach people how to use essential oils for healing, emotional wellbeing and nontoxic cleaning.

“The biggest complaints I hear are pain and sleep,” she says. Tierney recommends certain oils, DIY recipes and applications to address those issues.

The most common method for experiencing the benefits of essential oils is through inhalation. “Essential oils are easily absorbed into respiratory tissues,” says Jodi Baglien of Jodi

Baglien well being + wisdom studio. “They initiate a biochemical response in the body.”

Baglien is a certified clinical aromatherapist, educator and integrative therapies practitioner. She works with many of the major health systems in the Twin Cities and beyond to bring aromatherapy programs into clinical, hospital and long-term care settings. “The Twin Cities is a therapeutic hotbed,” Baglien says.

Aromatherapy, a type of holistic therapy using essential oils, has proved to be a popular option to reduce stress, tackle nausea and provide those suffering from pain a chance at relaxation.

“Inhalation is the safest method [for using

essential oils],” Baglien says. “If you want to use oils for fun, just pick a scent you like, and put a few drops in a diffuser. On the most basic level, essential oils are well known for boosting moods. Orange is known to promote happiness while lavender is synonymous with calm and relaxation.”

The oils can also be used topically by adding small amounts to a carrier oil. The diluted oils can then be absorbed through the skin for use in massaging sore muscles or soothing irritated skin. Ingestion is a third option, but one that both Baglien and Tierney caution against using without professional advice.

Baglien said the best direction she can give those interested in trying out essential oils is to seek out a reputable educator or get a book. She recommends Lora Cantele’s The Complete Aromatherapy and Essential Oils Handbook for Everyday Wellness “Keep it simple and educate yourself,” she says.

Both women also advocate buying oils from reputable sources with proven track records. “They should be in glass or metal bottles,” Tierney says. “Not plastic.”

“With oils, there are good, better, best,” says Baglien, noting that in general, the purer the oils, the better the results. “There’s nothing wrong with going with an essential oil from the store— just make sure it’s a reputable brand.”

And to get the best results, Baglien says one has to be mindful. “Focus, breathe,” she says. “Take a moment to tune in.”

Prior to using essential oils in any form, consider discussing it with your healthcare provider. Moreover, if you’re a pet owner, discuss usage with your veteranarian, as some essential oils are toxic to pets.

Essential Oils Primer

Aromatherapy –

The practice of using essential oils for therapeutic benefits

Blend – A mixture of two or more plant extracts

Carrier oil – An oil used in combination with small amounts of essential oils to help the skin absorb the product

Diffuser – A device that combines water and small amounts of essential oils, distributing them into the air for inhalation purposes

Essential Oils –Plant extracts made by pressing or steaming plants

Ingestion – Method by which essential oils enter the body through the digestive system, such as in a capsule

Inhalation – Method by which essential oils enter the body via air through the respiratory system

Topical – Method by which essential oils enter the body through the skin, usually via a carrier oil to aid in absorption

History REFINISHED

Relic Remodels transforms worn furniture into unique, vintage accent pieces.

Written by Malena Larsen

Photos by Chris Emeott

With Relic Remodels by Shayne, worn furniture no longer has to meet its fate at the edge of the curb awaiting trash day. The refurbishing business revitalizes vintage and antique furniture in order to create one-of-a-kind, custom pieces with a slice of history.

Its founder and Maple Grove resident, Shayne Confrey, has been refurbishing vintage pieces for years. Its founder and Maple Grove resident, Shayne Confrey, has been refurbishing vintage pieces for years and has been in business for approximately two years. Relic Remodels, which Confrey runs out of her home, developed from a combination of her love for thrift shopping and her mother’s taste in home decor; Confrey’s mother filled their home with midcentury furniture and antique pieces.

“I never really had much of an appreciation for midcentury furniture,” Confrey says. “But then I started to look at furniture differently as I got older. I stopped looking at it like it was just for utility and more as something that could provide style to a home.”

Confrey has refinished a plethora of pieces from dining room tables to dressers to vintage radios. Although the vintage radios no longer play music, Confrey finds new ways they can be used in the modern home. For example, with a few of her refinished radios, she removed the speakers and replaced them with drawers, doors and wine glass holders to turn them into bar cabinets.

“One of my favorite things to do is find old pieces with good bones,” Confrey says. “Midcentury furniture was made so well. But sometimes it just needs some refreshing, refinishing

and new legs. Plus, remodeling them keeps them out of landfills.”

With each piece, Confrey feels like she gets to restore a little piece of history. She bought a table from 1904 that had been used in a barn in Sidney, Nebraska. According to Confrey, the $50 table was in rough condition.

The table had been in the previous owner’s family for over 100 years, and the names of their great-grandparents were written on the table’s crate. Although Confrey normally sells her refinished items on her website, she decided to keep this piece of history for herself.

Along with selling items, sharing her portfolio and communicating with customers on her website, Confrey

also belongs to a collective called The Artisan Markets Furniture (theartisan marketsfurniture.com). The collective was founded by Laura JohnsonHernandez and Lori Gravink, who believe that furniture artisans should make money that not only covers the work they do, but the time it takes to create such special pieces, as well.

“We put so much effort into the furniture we refinish, and we ensure a level of quality that you don’t get with bulk furniture pieces,” Confrey says. “An artisan’s focus is quality and uniqueness.”

When it comes to DIYers wanting to follow in Confrey’s footsteps, she recommends trial and error, as well as utilizing the right products.

Donato’s Floral is a family owned business. We have been a part of this community for over 35 wonderful years. We deliver daily joy with natural botanicals.

Donato’s Floral 10200 73rd Ave. N. Suite #102 763.416.0488

donatosfloral.com

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Castle Bound Travel Company

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Comfort Keepers® is here to help seniors thrive safely while living independently at home. Our empathetic caregivers are specially trained to provide uplifting care and support. We’re here to help!

Comfort Keepers 524 Central Ave. N., Osseo 763.273.4207

comfortkeepers.com

Maple Grove Resident for 25+ Years

1,600+ thrilled clients

Voted #1 Realtor in Maple Grove

We look forward to serving you!

Jarrod Peterson Real Estate Group 7767 Elm Creek Blvd. 763.258.4400 askjarrodheknows.com

This is our home. Let us help you make it yours.

Reach out today to get connected with one of our Maple Grove agents.

We look forward to helping you.

Edina Realty Maple Grove 7767 Elm Creek Blvd. Suite #200 763.420.2424

edinarealty.com/office/maple-grove

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Confrey has noticed an increase in interest for revitalized midcentury pieces. She thinks this is partially due to people getting rid of or refurbishing furniture that their young children or pets had previously damaged. According to Confrey, folks in their 40s are realizing they would like to have furniture pieces that have meaning and that provide a unique statement in their home.

This was the case with Jen Knutson, Relic Remodels customer and Maple Grove resident. She didn’t want to give up hope on her dining room table and chairs after they had been damaged by kids and a puppy. Instead, she looked to Confrey to bring them back to life.

“I knew some of the awesome work Shayne had done with refurbishing other pieces of furniture. Her work was amazing,” Knutson says. “She was super with communication, she was quick and her work was great.”

With a bit of direction and a lot of creative liberty, Confrey revitalized Knutson’s dining room set. According

to Confrey, the main areas of focus were the damage to the chair legs, seats and table top.

“The Knutsons have the cutest bernadoodle,” Confrey says. “And he enjoyed chewing on the furniture as a puppy.”

Confrey filled and sanded out all of the damage. Then, she used her sprayer to prime and paint the bases. The table and seats were stained to match Knutson’s kitchen cabinets. Finally, Confrey sealed everything for protection and durability.

“I love it,” Knutson shares. “It matches our kitchen perfectly.”

Relic Remodels by Shayne 845.536.7118; relicremodels.com

Relic Remodels @relic_remodels_byshayne

The Black Cabin 212 Central Ave, Osseo, MN 55369 763.777.2468; teresa@theblackcabin.com

The Black Cabin

COME ONE, COME ALL TO THE MAPLE GROVE HOME SHOW

Minnesota Home Shows provides expert advice on home improvement.

ON MARCH 18, the Maple Grove Community Center will be filled with 120 home improvement professionals for the Maple Grove Home Show. From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., there will be insights into interior and exterior home improvements, such as roofing, kitchen remodeling, flooring, basement remodeling and more. If you’ve been putting off your honey-do list, this is the event that’ll help you leave procrastination in the past.

The event is free, so all you have to do is show up with big ideas for your home. There will be a seminar every hour where professionals will go over the current trends in interior design, paint colors, kitchen modeling and more.

“The home show is a super unique opportunity,” says co-owner of Minnesota Home Shows Jim Holt. “It puts professionals on the spot instead of them showing up at your door and putting you on the spot.”

There will also be giveaways for participants, including a raffle for a $500 Home Depot gift card and a Bingo game with the chance to win a Yeti cooler.

—Megan Hegenbarth

All ages. Free.

10 a.m.–4 p.m., March 18.

things to see and do in and around Maple Grove iStock.com/NicholasAhonen

Maple Grove Community Center, 12951 Weaver Lake Road; 952.232.1765; minnesotahomeshows.com

LOCAL EVENTS

Express 03/12

Enjoy the music of Express at The Lookout Bar & Grill. Ages 21 and older. Free. 9 p.m.–1 a.m. Lookout Bar & Grill, 8672 Pineview Lane N.; 763.424.4365; lookoutbarandgrill.com

Lions Beer and Wine Tasting

03/25

Join the Maple Grove Lions for a tasting of wine, local food and beer. The event will also include a silent auction and raffle. Ages 21 and older. Free. VIP Experience starts at 6 p.m., main event starts at 7 p.m. Maple Grove Community Center, 12951 Weaver Lake Road; maplegrovelions.org

Green Show

04/11–05/19

The Maple Grove Arts Center partners with North Hennepin Community College for its Green Show. Opening night is April 20, but it can be visited from April 11 through May 19. All ages. Free. Maple Grove Arts Center, 11666 Fountains Drive; 763.370.3003; maplegroveartscenter.org

Todd Michael Jameson 04/20

Get ready for Todd Michael Jameson at Maple Tavern. Enjoy some food as the solo acoustic artist plays throughout the night. Ages 21 and older. Free. 6 p.m. Maple Tavern, 9375 Deerwood Lane N.; mapletavern.com

Elm Creek Backyard Ultra 04/28

This event is back for a second year. Complete a 4.167-mile loop every hour for as long as you can—the last runner is the winner. All ages. 6 p.m. Elm Creek Park Reserve, 12400 James Deane Parkway; truenorthadventuresmn@gmail.com; backyardultra.com

Life is sweeter at The BeeHive!

Locally owned and operated, BeeHive Homes of Maple Grove is a memory care home that has been serving seniors and their families in the original Sun ower Hive for the past three years. We specialize in compassionate care in a smaller setting, where residents feel safe and loved.

We are excited to expand our mission and our home to serve even more people who have been a ected by dementia in our second Hive, e Daisy!

Compiled by Nicole Berglund and Megan Hegenbarth

AREA EVENTS

Blues for an Alabama Sky

03/01–03/12

Watch as a group of friends face challenges and dream big together during the Depression era in Harlem. All ages. Prices vary. Times vary. Guthrie Theater, 818 S. Second St., Mpls.; 612.377.2224; guthrietheater.org

Tina: The Tina Turner Musical

03/01–03/12

Witness the magic of this Grammy award winner. Ages 14 and older recommended. Prices vary. Times vary. Orpheum Theatre, 910 Hennepin Ave., Mpls.; 612.339.7007; hennepintheatretrust.org

Tots & Trains

03/01 and 03/15

Enjoy family fun with Tots & Trains at The Jackson Street Roadhouse & Museum. Adults can enjoy coffee and treats while kids can play in the open play area with train tables and interactive games. All ages. Tickets starting at $7. 10 a.m.–noon. The Minnesota Transportation Museum, 193 Pennsylvania Ave., St. Paul; 651.228.0263; transportationmuseum.org

Music and Mindfulness

03/02

Members of the Minnesota Orchestra teach mindfulness through performance and dialogue. Adults recommended. $23. 7 p.m. Orchestra Hall, 1111 Nicollet Mall, Mpls.; 612.371.5656; minnesotaorchestra.org

Irish Diplomacy

03/02–03/30

Every Thursday, come listen to the Irish Diplomacy at Finnegans. Listen for a combination of electric and jazz as they play. Ages 21 and older. 6–8 p.m. Finnegans Brew Co., 817 Fifth Ave. S., Mpls.; 612.208.3374; finnegans.org

Artist Series Concert

03/09 and 03/23

Minnesota’s most excellent classical musicians perform music from past and present composers. All ages. $15, $10 for groups of 8 or more, $6 for students. 10:30 a.m.–noon. MacPhail Center for Music, 501 S. Second St., Mpls.; 612.333.0313; thursdaymusical.org

National Geographic Live

03/10–03/11

Experience breathtaking nature views accompanied by the Minnesota Orchestra. All ages. Prices vary. 8 p.m. Orchestra Hall, 1111 Nicollet Mall, Mpls.; 612.371.5656; minnesotaorchestra.org

Mozart’s Jupiter

03/18

Enjoy classical music with Michael Francis and the Minnesota Orchestra as they play Mozart’s last symphony. All ages. Tickets start at $55. 6 p.m. Orchestra Hall, 1111 Nicollet Mall, Mpls.; 612.371.5600; minnesotaorchestra.org

Maya Hawke

03/19

Musician and Stranger Things star performs her Tactless Tour show. All ages. Prices vary. 7 p.m. Fine Line, 318 N. First Ave., Mpls.; 612.338.8388; mayahawkemusic.com

My Fair Lady

03/21–03/25

Enjoy the classic tale of Eliza Doolittle and Henry Higgins live. All ages. Prices vary. Times vary. Ordway Music Theater, 345 Washington St., St. Paul; 651.224.4222; ordway.org

Taylor Made

03/25

Come listen to Taylor Made as it features Michael Monroe and Dennis Spears in an homage to James Taylor and his songs. All ages. $25 online, $20 for groups of 10 or more, $30 door. 7–8:30 p.m. The Capri Theater, 2027 W. Broadway, Mpls.; thecapri.org

COZY UP WITH A ONE BEDROOM & RESERVE!

To have your event considered: email maplegrovemag@localmedia.co by the 10th of the month three months prior to publication.

Due to the fluidity being experienced in the current environment, please note that some events/dates and even some business operations may have changed since these pages went to print. Please visit affiliated websites for updates.

Reserve your apartment by March 31st and we will waive the 2nd occupant fee through the end of the year PLUS enjoy 10 complimentary personal training sessions in our state-of-the-art Health Club.

8200 Main Street North Maple Grove MN 55369 763.955.1750

WWW.SILVERCREEKONMAIN.COM

maplegrovemag.com

Sweet Blossoms

Aani’s Home Bakery sets the course for The Blake School entrepreneur.

Written by Kristie Smith Photos by Aani Bedi

MOST JUNIORS IN HIGH SCHOOL are steeped in their studies and thinking about what life will be like once they graduate. that’s the case—and then some—for The Blake School junior Aani Bedi. Along with everything else that comes with being a high schooler, Aani runs her own business—a business involving buttercream flowers, cupcakes and cakes.

“My mom and I realized baking was something we both loved to do together,” Aani says. “But I don’t do normal cupcakes or cakes. I do flowers on flowers.”

Aani started Aani’s Home Bakery in her home in late 2021. Her buttercream creations come in the form of a plethora of flowers, however, her favorite flower design is a sunflower, which she learned how to make by watching YouTube.

Along with using social media to gain new skills, Aani uses it to run and promote her business. Her use of social media plays well with small business trends, according to John Stavig, tech startup entrepreneur and director of the Holmes Center for Entrepreneurship at the University of Minnesota’s Carlson School of Management.

“Social media is a great promotional opportunity for someone looking to develop their network or become an influencer,” Stavig says. “There are all sorts of ways to commercialize products. It just takes a little time to learn the tools.”

Stavig helps organize the Minnesota Cup, one of the largest business startup competitions in the country. “It’s fun to see what kids are doing in high school without much need for capital,” Stavig says, referring to the young entrepreneurs competition

of the Minnesota Cup. “They’re learning to anticipate challenges, while building business acumen at the same time.”

The bakery has inspired Aani to set her sights on starting her own restaurant and pursuing business school once she graduates. She is using her business to help pay for college and grow her knowledge of charting her own career. Aani says, “There are cottage food laws to learn and management work. I’m also attending online business courses.”

Although the holidays are the busiest time of year for Aani’s Home Bakery, Aani receives requests from customers year-round. This spring, she expects to see the usual increase in pastel floral color requests. She is offering a new lemon marmalade filling option for cakes and cupcakes.

“We have carrot cake available for larger orders, and we also have white chocolate frosting, raspberry jam and strawberry jam for filling options,” she says.

You can see more of Aani’s creations on her Instagram, @aanis.home.bakery. For inquiries, DM Aani through her Instagram account, call 612.735.0422 or email aanibedi@gmail.com.

FIRST PLACE: CITY LANDMARKS

Focus on Maple Grove

The sun peeks through one last time before uttering its daily goodbye.

“I CASUALLY ENJOY MOBILE PHOTOGRAPHY , so I’m always looking for opportunities to capture unique moments and scenes. This photo was taken while I was enjoying a relaxing evening at the park with my parents, and I wanted to capture some of the scenery,” says Andrew Gobran. “The way the light from the setting sun filtered through the guardrail, casting rays of light across the deck, was a peaceful sight, especially when set against the colorful sky during that evening.”

Photographer: Andrew Gobran

Title: Arrayed at Sunset

Equipment: Google Pixel 3

Location: Weaver Lake Community Park

To view other Focus on Maple Grove photo contest winners, visit maplegrovemag.com.