Maple Grove - November 2024 by Local.

THE ARTIST

MARIAH SMITH SEAMLESSLY MERGES CREATIVITY AND ENTREPRENEURIAL SAVVY

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

“The more you learn about the world and other people, the more connected you feel. And the more you give back, the better the world seems to be.” —Crystal Anderson, City of Maple Grove (page 14)

Photo: Chris Emeott

Flour Power, page 32

from the EDITOR

Readers: Welcome to our final issue of 2024. This November/ December issue is all about food, entertaining and giving back—and we have a lot of exciting stories to tell. Let me start with one of my own.

One of my favorite annual family traditions is our cookiebaking day. You know the one. It is, after all, a tradition in so many families. When planning this day full of holiday fun, we all choose different cookie recipes to make. One of my favorites is Pizzelles, a traditional Italian waffle-style cookie, which my family has been making for as long as I can remember.

Although Pizzelles weren’t on our menu last year, we made an array of classics: Peanut Butter Blossoms, Chocolate Chip, Molasses and Sugar cookies. We even tried our hand at those shaped, iced sugar cookies that are practically a piece of art. Now, what’s important here is that my family members are bakers and competitors. So naturally we wanted to see who could make the best Santa Claus, snowflakes, perfectly wrapped presents—except it’s not quite as easy as all the tutorials and photos make it look. We had fun regardless, and the cookies were delicious!

In these pages, I’m delighted to share this tradition with you. First, meet Christina Stewart on page 18 who specializes in custom sugar cookies—yes, those challenging and beautiful art creations! Then, turn to our Tastemakers on page 32 to meet two more talented cookie bakers: Zia McNeal and Annette Gustafson, both of whom have won awards for their sweet confections.

Hopefully, this year has given us all something to look forward to. It has been a great joy to bring you the stories of this year, Readers, and I wish you all a happy and healthy holiday season. Cheers,

hailey@localmedia.co

On the Cover

See what we’re doing behind the scenes and around town! Maple Grove Magazine @maplegrovemagazine @maplegrovemag

Photo: Chris Emeott

Hailey Almsted

The Artist, page 22, artwork by Mariah Smith

VOL. 19 NO. 2 maplegrovemag.com

PUBLISHER

Susan Isay

EDITOR

Hailey Almsted

MANAGING CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Renée Stewart-Hester

MANAGING EDITOR

Hailey Almsted

DIGITAL EDITOR

Madeline Kopiecki

COPY EDITORS

Kellie Doherty and Sherri Hildebrandt

STAFF WRITERS

Kelly Cochrane, Mollee Francisco, Emily Gedde, Meredith Heneghan, Daniel Huss, Jennifer Pitterle and Rachel Schuehle

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Gabrielle Clark, Melissa Jaeger, Lise Spence-Parsons, Imogen Van Zee and Kira Vanderlan

DIGITAL INTERN

Alexandra Tostrud

EDITORIAL INTERNS

Tia Benson and Findlay Drabant

EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD

Anne Anderson, Experience Maple Grove ; Tanya Bradehoft, Osseo Area Schools ; Roee Hecht, City of Maple Grove ; and Heidi Nelson, City of Maple Grove

SENIOR MANAGING ART DIRECTOR

Sarah Dovolos

ART DIRECTOR

Allison Nolden

ASSOCIATE ART DIRECTOR

Jamie Klang

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Yaz Lo

LEAD STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Chris Emeott

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR

Brittni Dye

PRODUCTION MANAGER Lisa Stone

PRODUCTION COORDINATOR

Mimi Coz

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Laura Bjorgo, Cynthia Hamre, Mary-Catherine Hartel, Sara Johnson and Lauren Warner

PRESIDENT Pete Burgeson To subscribe to Maple Grove Magazine , please visit localmedia.co. For customer service inquiries, please contact hello@localmedia.co, or call 612.208.6248. ©Local LLC 2024. All rights reserved.

Take your kitchen to the next level with a large statement range hood.

DESIGN

MAKE A STATEMENT

KITCHEN TRENDS are always changing. Two-toned cabinets, rustic accents, terracotta tiles and more have remained popular. This year, interior designers are taking note of statement range hoods.

We spoke with local expert Angela Warner, talent development manager at Warners’ Stellian, who offers her perspective on how to transform your kitchen from basic to luxurious and functional.

Do homes need a range hood?

Angela Warner (AW): Overall, yes. Having a hood protects the investment of your kitchen and your home, including cabinets, walls and window treatments from grease and moisture that can stay in the air for up to three days. We’re helping people select the hood that makes sense for cooking equipment but also their home, their aesthetic and what’s important to them.

What range hood is popular?

AW: Making the hood a little bit bigger helps it work better, and it’s more of a statement piece. A lot of people are ditching the microwave over the range as their vent. Those vents are like a starter kitchen; when they’re ready for the next level, they might choose to put a hood in ... It not only brings the kitchen’s appearance to another level, but it’ll also work better, too.

How can the range hood stand out?

AW: Adding a little flare to the hood helps make it stand out. There’s a lot to do with color and different metals. Adding a piece of chrome to the front or including hammered copper accents can really bring a look to life. Different textures and colors can really impact the look, too.

For more information, visit maplegrovemag.com. —Emily Gedde

TASTE

In the Meantime …

While hosting friends and family for holiday dinners, home cooks often need a go-to nibble to keep hungry guests at bay until the meal is ready for its glorious entrance to the dining table. Especially this time of year, it’s tempting to go the “easier” route and offer unhealthy packaged snacks, so we asked Katie Tomsche from Lunds & Byerlys for some healthier options.

Cranberry-Pomegranate Crostini:

This colorful appetizer is a wonderful way to kick off any holiday gathering, and it’s delicious when served with a cabernet sauvignon.

» 1 baguette

» ½ cup fresh cranberries, finely chopped

» ¼ cup pomegranate seeds

» 2 Tbsp. parsley, chopped

» 1 Tbsp. olive oil

» 1 ½ tsp. honey

» salt, to taste

» pepper, to taste

» 3 oz. goat cheese log

» orange zest, garnish

Time for Reflection

During this season of family gatherings, feasts and presents, we reflect on the past year and are grateful for the many positives we have experienced. This time of year is also one when we can give to those whose needs have not been met.

As a professional organizer and interior

designer, I frequently encounter homes filled with clothes, furniture or objects that sit unused. There’s also duplicates of items and gently worn clothes that are otherwise in great condition but would better serve someome in need.

For some, it is hard to let go of personal possessions. However, knowing where the items that you once cherished are going is the most effective way to move forward. When your stuff helps another, feelings of happiness surround you, and you’ll find yourself giving even more.

Cut the baguette into slices, and toast on a baking sheet in the oven. Mix together cranberries, pomegranate seeds, parsley, olive oil and honey. Add salt and pepper to taste. Spread each baguette slice with goat cheese, and top with the cranberry-pomegranate mixture. Add orange zest over the top, and serve.

Visit maplegrovemagazine.com for the following recipes:

Roasted Butternut Squash and Apple Bruschetta:

This is an ideal appetizer for your upcoming holiday spread. It’s quick and easy to make, looks beautiful on a plate and keeps in the fridge for a few days.

Delicata Squash Crostini:

With creamy goat cheese, velvety squash and tart pomegranate seeds, this appetizer features all your favorite cold-weather flavors.

Katie Tomsche is the content manager for Lunds & Byerlys. Taste more at lundsandbyerlys.com.

There are a variety of places to donate across the Twin Cities. When giving, make sure the items are clean and in working order. Be sure to check with each organization to know what it will accept. You will receive a tax receipt upon donating, but more importantly, you will be giving back to your community.

Kira Vanderlan is the owner of Zestful Design, a home organizing, staging and interior design company based in Maple Grove. Learn more at zestfuldesign.com.

Photo: Lunds & Byerlys

Cranberry-Pomegranate Crostini

Mastering the Art of Entertaining

by Joe Marini

In this book, you will find practical tips, creative ideas, recipes, thoughtful and interesting stories, etiquette on how to entertain, beside secrets of creating a menu. Each chapter is wellorganized, from offering step-by-step instructions on how to be a good host to working with flowers.

Entertaining is a skill that, with some practice, can become second nature. Those who dislike cooking can serve store-bought food, present it on platters and make it look good for guests. It isn’t about throwing parties—but about creating memorable experiences that can be built on with grace and elegance. Marini encourages readers to find their own ways to connect with their guests. He reminds us that it doesn’t have to be perfect; just relax, and everything else will fall into place. It may not have gone the way it was supposed to, but hosts can improve on the next lunch or dinner party.

Mastering the Art of Entertaining is an invaluable resource that is bound to excite readers looking to boost their hosting skills. This book is a must-read for anyone who believes in the power of good company and great food.

Laurie Stieg is an associate librarian at the Hennepin County LibraryMaple Grove. Read more at hclib.org.

THE MENU

Something New

Axe throwing has come to town.

By Meredith Heneghan

“LET’S go throw axes in Maple Grove!”

That’s a sentence Matt Pohlkamp is hoping to hear more often. Pohlkamp is the owner and CEO of Broadaxe Axe Throwing, nestled inside Maple Grove’s Broadway Bar and Pizza, a fun place for family and friends to try a new activity.

This isn’t Pohlkamp’s first time running an axe-throwing venue. “I fell in love with the concept, how things ran and the camaraderie,” he says.

Broadaxe, recognized by the International Axe Throwing Federation (IATF), offers axe throwing for groups ranging from four to 24 people in its two arenas. Participants don’t need experience to reserve a time slot— an axe master joins each group.

“An axe master is a trained employee that has been certified. They will take you through two different throwing styles. They’re there throughout the process of a round robin style game, then do a tournament at the end,” Pohlkamp says.

Axe throwing might seem intimidating, but Pohlkamp assures that all are welcome to try it out. “You don’t have to be super athletic to throw axes. That’s not even the concept,” he says. “It’s as simple as being able to bend your elbow, point and throw at the right time. We’ll help you land on the target. We’ll help you focus on the bullseye part of it.”

Regardless of participants’ level of experience (novice to expert), anyone can become part of an axe-throwing league at Broadaxe. “If you’re a first timer, you can sign up for a league,”

Step inside the lanes at Broadaxe and try your hand at axe throwing.

Photo: Broadaxe

Pohlkamp says. “Guys and gals that have been doing this for a long time … they’ll help you get better, too. It’s a way to bring a bunch of people together.”

Through a league, participants can compete with other IATF throwers and even get opportunities to travel. “You compete nationwide against people,” Pohlkamp says.

The camaraderie of competition keeps things exciting. “You might be competing, but if you’re going for a perfect score, everyone will stop and watch and cheer you on. It’s quite the accomplishment,” he says.

Broadaxe offers full bar and menu service, including happy hour. The venue is known for its pizza, but there’s also pasta dishes and wings, as well as other snacks and meals. “The goal of this is to come in, have fun, drink and eat pizza, boost your own ego when you win,” Pohlkamp says. “And then when you come back, you can defend that title!”

Pohlkamp previously worked for Broadway as general manager in another location. However, this is the first restaurant and axe-throwing venue that he’s owned. “I fell in love with the process and with the company itself,” Pohlkamp says. The location had a lot of extra space, and when he first saw it, he had his heart set on axe throwing as the use for the extra space. “Now, we have this option for something new,” he says. Interest in axe throwing is growing in Maple Grove, and Pohlkamp hopes people start to see it as a place to regularly visit. “The goal with Broadaxe is that it’s an experience,” Pohlkamp says.

Broadaxe, 7890 Main St.; 763.333.1303; broadaxemn.com

Broadaxe - Axe Throwing @broadaxemn

PHILANTHROPY

Heart for Service

Crystal Anderson brings her passion for helping others to Cambodia.

By Jennifer Pitterle

CRYSTAL ANDERSON, who works for the City of Maple Grove as a recreation supervisor with an emphasis on teenagers and outreach, transformed her dedication to service to a new environment: Cambodia. In January, she combined her passion for service with a new cultural experience as part of a trip organized by St. Francis Catholic Church in her hometown of Brainerd.

“We met up with a mission called Freely Given, and part of their mission is medical work,” Anderson says. In addition to the resident missionaries with medical backgrounds, some of the fellow travelers provided medical care to locals in and around Siem Reap, where the team was based. “We would entertain the children while their parents were able to get medical services,” she says. They also helped with various building, cleaning and painting projects. “We did a lot of painting at

the local St. Joseph’s Catholic Church there,” Anderson says. “One of the first days, we met the priest who runs it.” When the team asked what they could do to help, he said he was thinking about getting a microwave.

“Something as simple as that,” Anderson says. “We never told him I was the one, but I bought a microwave for him. It was just so touching to me.”

Anderson notes the differences between life in Minnesota and in Cambodia. “Everything is kind of wide open there,” she says. “Most places don’t have any air conditioning, and it’s usually 90 to 100 degrees. We rode on motos—kind of small mopeds—with wagons on the back.” The group also spoke with locals who still feel the effects of the oppressive Khmer Rouge regime, which ruled Cambodia from 1975 to 1979. “There are still landmines all over the countryside,” Anderson

says. “You’ll meet lots and lots of people who are missing limbs.” Many families live on floating homes in floating villages and stick close to productive fishing areas, making it difficult to return to land for medical care. “We went out there, and there was a little boy whose whole face was swollen because he had an infection in his tooth,” Anderson says. “They wouldn’t have been able to afford a doctor nor would they have had the resources to get in.”

Anderson brought along supplies for patients with diabetes, a disease that’s close to her heart. “My son is a Type 1 diabetic,” she says. “I filled half my suitcase with supplies that we have extras of: glucometers, test strips ...”

Connecting with folks in need is a common thread in Anderson’s life. “The more you learn about the world and other people, the more connected you feel,” she says. “And the more you give

Photos: Crystal Anderson

Crystal Anderson helps those around the world—from local teenagers in Maple Grove to families in Cambodia.

back, the better the world seems to be.”

In college, she planned to do social work but switched to recreation, parks and leisure services after working as a recreation coordinator at a juvenile detention center. “I realized I would make a bigger difference in the teens’ lives through recreation,” she says.

With over 24 years with the City of Maple Grove, Anderson has indeed made a difference, working on diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives, running the teen programming and being an integral part of the city’s gardening initiatives. “We’ve been very intentional about building beautiful parks and recreation opportunities for everybody,” she says. “Maple Grove is a beautiful city to live in.”

Learn about Maple Grove’s Parks and Recreation offerings at maplegrovemn.gov.

Kate Hammero sells unique and seasonal handcrafted items through her business, Handmade by Hammero.

ARTS & CULTURE

Out of the Woods

Local maker specializes in beautiful handmade crafts.

By Mollee Francisco

KATE HAMMERO has been teaching art to students at Wayzata Public Schools’ Kimberly Lane Elementary School for nine years, but it wasn’t until COVID19 that she realized she needed to start making her own art. “I needed to fulfill my own creative passions,” she says.

The Maple Grove resident, who had dabbled with making pottery and clay necklaces, set her sights on custom engravings via a laser engraver. “I was fascinated with lasers and being able to design on the computer,” she says. Hammero bought a basic engraver but soon found she wasn’t the only one in her family who was intrigued. “My dad, Steve, was right there with me trying to figure out the laser,” she says. “It was everybody’s passions colliding.”

Hammero teamed up with her amateur woodworker father, and they began creating art together—framed art, magnets and plant sticks. Before long, Hammero was overrun by their creations. “I was just making art at first,” she says. “Then there was too much of it.

“It definitely became bigger than I thought,” she adds.

Hammero decided to start selling her creations on Etsy—and that’s when Homemade by Hammero was born. Three years later, Hammero has had over 3,000 sales on Etsy, and her work can be found in a handful of boutiques across the state from Carver Junk Company in Chaska and Round Barn Trading Company in Andover to Merchants on Main Street Boutique in Sauk Centre and North & Shore in Duluth. Over the summer, Hammero added a remodeled camper to serve as a mobile storefront at various craft fairs and pop up events.

HOLIDAY SHOPPING

Look for the Handmade by Hammero camper at the Art & Gift Expo at the Minneapolis Convention Center November 1–3, the Erickson Farmstead in Isanti on November 9 and the St. Paul Union Depot November 16.

Hammero now sells a host of items from engraved s’mores sticks and matching wooden trays to key chains, wine charms and first-day-of-school signs—all in her signature simple, dark designs on light wood style that she describes as “woodworker meets boho.” Most items are priced between $3 and $30. “I aim to create art that’s accessible to any budget,” she says.

Her most popular creations are themed token jars that suggest ways to combat boredom and offer date night activities, dinner ideas, daily affirmations and even cheekier affirmations. Meanwhile, Hammero’s personal favorite are the pocket hugs, which are wooden tokens that parents can give their kids to carry to remind them of their love. “It ties into being a teacher,” she says.

Hammero is always on the search for new ideas to try out with her laser engraver, and she loves coming up with her own creations. “The joy is making new things,” she says. “I don’t love mass producing things.” She also loves taking custom orders and problem solving about how to make a customer’s vision come to life. “I’m always trying to make it better,” she says. “I hope I can create little moments of happiness.”

Hammero says making art is the best reward. “It’s not always about the selling for me. “I love to create something new,” she says.

Plus, she says working on her art has made her a better teacher. “I’ve let loose,” she says. “I’m better at letting the kids follow their own ideas.” To encourage them, she shows her work to her students. “It’s fun to share my art with the kids,” she says.

Now, Hammero is dreaming about fostering creativity with the public.

“The ultimate dream would be my own brick and mortar,” she says. “I’d love to have a classroom for makers.”

HandmadeByHammero

Handmade by Hammero

@handmadebyhammero

LIFE THESweet

Christina Stewart perfects her royal iced sugar cookies.

Written by Hailey Almsted

From wedding showers, bachelorette parties and birthdays to Teacher Appreciation Day and sixth grade graduations—Emily Bilski supplies the sweet treats that everyone takes a bite out of. Her go-to is Sweet + Flour Cookie Co.

“I have reordered from Sweet + Flour because the cookies not only look amazing, but they taste amazing, too,” says Bilski, a second grade teacher at St. Bart’s School in Wayzata.

Christina Stewart started Sweet + Flour Cookie Co. as a passion project last November. Prior to her time as a baker, Christina served as an elementary school teacher and an academic specialist. In 2019, the Maple Grove resident decided to stay home with her two boys, Calvin (5) and Maxwell (2). Christina and her husband, James Stewart, welcomed a new addition to their family on September 8—a third baby boy named Wesley. “I do plan to go back to teaching someday, but for now, I enjoy staying home and spending extra time with them,” she says.

Christina took advantage of this lifestyle change to perfect her baking hobby. She began her baking journey in 2018, creating her first batch of royal iced sugar cookies for her sister-inlaw Dy-Anna Kunkel’s baby shower. “It was a challenge. It was something I had never done before, but I loved it,” Christina says. Since that shower, Christina found herself baking and designing unique cookies for parties, celebrations and holidays. Soon after, she says her friends and family would ask her to bake for their events, too.

“My husband, James, looked at me and said, ‘You should make it legal and start an official business,’” Christina says. “I was reluctant at first because I had imposter syndrome.”

“When she first started making cookies for family and friends, it soon became clear that this is something she could pursue professionally,” James says. “Her talent was evident right away.”

Although James notes that it took a bit of convincing, Christina officially launched the Sweet + Flour website just one year ago with support all around.

Between mixing, baking, decorating and packaging, Christina estimates one set of cookies (two dozen) takes over 10 hours to create. “That doesn’t include drying time between layers,” she says. “It’s a process, and I’ve learned how to spread out that process especially if I’m juggling multiple orders in the week. It’s been a learning curve for sure.”

Photos by Chris Emeott

Christina Stewart

Because each set of cookies is completely custom to the customer, it’s rare that Christina ever makes the same set twice. “I’m obsessed with all the different themes,” she says, noting that one of her favorite sets to make was a Winnie-the-Pooh set for a first birthday as well as a set for Lunar New Year. Christina has also offered presale cookies, which include a preorder form and a standard set of cookies for different holidays, such as Thanksgiving, Christmas and Valentine’s Day.

Although Thanksgiving is off the table this year, due to the welcoming of Wesley, she hopes to offer a Christmas Cookie Presale. Last year, she offered two packages—a three-pack and a half dozen—which included a reindeer, a Christmas tree, a snowflake, a gingerbread man, Santa and a present. “It was really fun,” she says, noting this year she hopes to include classic Christmas cookie designs with new colorful options, too.

When asked how she balances the

time it takes to bake, Christina notes that she is thankful for James who has helped her figure out the balancing act of being a business owner and a mother. “... It has been cool to watch how successful she has become in such a short amount of time. It’s been a lot of late nights and early mornings to get to where she is today,” James says.

Although she says it’s “definitely a one-woman show,” Christina notes that it wouldn’t be possible without the help around her, including James,

Christina Stewart’s Christmas Cookie Presale includes beloved holiday icons.

Cookie Cues

This holiday season, try baking and decorating royal iced cookies with your family and friends. Christina Stewart says, “The No. 1 thing is to start making them, even just for you.”

She adds that she’s learned to pipe and fill the royal icing with a lot of practice—but notes that social media is a big help, too. “Instagram and TikTok have so many videos and tutorials,” she says. “It’s so helpful to learn from them.”

What do you think? Will this hobby be the icing on the cookie this holiday season?

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

Our mission is to serve people exceptionally, and we do this through our family home environment, personalized care, and caregivers who are passionate about making a di erence.

her mom, Cheryl Valle, and her friends who consistently refer folks her way, such as Bilski, who she met in 2010 at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota in Winona. “I love referring my friends and family … because I know the product that they are getting and the customer service from Christina is worth every penny,” Bilski says.

Although Christina never visualized this for herself, she’s thrilled with the business. “I’m proud of myself. This isn’t something I envisioned or thought of. It kind of just came to be. I’m loving every step of it,” she says “I plan to keep it going.”

“I am so proud of what she has accomplished,” James says. “Christina is amazingly talented and works tremendously hard. For anyone looking to order from her, know that you are getting the best cookies in Minnesota!”

To order a set of custom cookies, visit sweetandflourcookieco.com, and fill out the Custom Cookie Request form.

Sweet + Flour Cookie Co; sweetandflourcookieco@gmail.com; sweetandflourcookieco.com

Sweet + Flour Cookie Co. @sweetandflourcookieco @sweetandflourcookieco

When Mariah Smith started using oil paints, she hated it. “I tried it in an unventilated room and got a huge headache. There’s paint thinner that traditional artists use, and I didn’t know you were supposed to ventilate,” she says. She thought to herself, “I am never doing this again.”

Smith’s always been an artistic person. With a decade-long career in video production, she has an eye for detail and aesthetics. Painting was a hobby that she engaged in when she could. “Whenever I had free time, I always spent that doing art stuff, but I never saw that being my career,” she says. “I always treated it as a side thing, a hobby, a passion project."

Plenty of people can relate to seeing their artistic or crafty pursuits as something meant for leisure time and couldn’t possibly consider turning it into a business. Sometimes, in fact, a hobby is only enjoyable because it’s not intertwined with the pressures and stress of turning it into a business.

Smith, however, comes from an entrepreneurial lineage. “My grandfather was very creative and an engineer. He founded a snowmobile company

called Scorpion Snowmobiles,” she says. “He was an adventurer but had a really keen eye for aesthetics.” Smith is the youngest of four children, and she says all her siblings inherited their grandfather’s spirit for creation in some way. “We all turned out really creative and entrepreneurial,” she says.

In 2020, when Smith’s work in video production slowed down and she found herself with a lot more free time due to the COVID-19 lockdown, she started thinking that her oil painting practice—with her discovery of 100 percent nontoxic oil paints—could become something more. “That was the first time I ever really thought about selling my paintings. I dove into it heavily, and I got a lot of positive responses,” Smith says. “I discovered a broader art community, my community online and started investing there more and sharing there more.” She had dabbled in this arena before. Years prior, while taking a pottery class, Smith really got into it and began creating pieces and selling them online. “It kind of blew up and became its own thing for a few years while I was still at my job,” she says. “I learned that I really

The Artist

Written by Meredith Heneghan — Photos by Chris Emeott

MARIAH

Mariah Smith

Whether in her studio or on the go, Mariah Smith enjoys her craft wherever she can. Smith’s portable painting kit allows her to set up wherever inspiration strikes.

hated the fulfillment side of that. You spend such a small amount of time on creating; the rest is just packaging and mailing.” She told herself that if she ever went back into business selling her art, she’d figure out a way to outsource the order fulfillment side of the process.

Smith, known online by her first and middle names, Mariah Marcia, went into artmaking full-time, working on her painting practice while also developing a kids’ YouTube channel named Artsy With Mariah. “I was disappointed with the quality of art content that was out there for kids—a lot of it was overstimulating,” she says. The channel was a hit with over 30 drawing tutorials for kids to do at home. “That was a very big undertaking, but it’s because of my video production background that I could do that first season by myself,” she says. Although the channel is currently on a break, she intends to pick back up with a little more support for the second season.

By slowly stepping away from her video production work, Smith has been able to dedicate more time to oil painting and developing her business model for selling print reproductions of original paintings. “My style is influenced by the Impressionists—loose, painterly— kind of traditional but has a lightness to it,” she says.

Smith sells her prints on Etsy, but a big difference in how she operates comes down to the logistics. She doesn’t do any of the order fulfillment herself. Through extensive research, Smith has developed a process she calls the Passive Print Method, and she shares her methodology in an online course of the same name for other artists to use and follow.

“It specifically teaches people who are artists how to digitize it, get it listed on Etsy and get it fulfilled by a third party. It gives artists the freedom to have this stream that continues running without having to put the time in for it,” she says. The Passive Print Method runs without any need for intervention from the artist selling the work and utilizes various listing strategies to optimize exposure on Etsy.

“I did a lot of research on my own and learned the whole process through trial and error. I did it for several years, and I just kept being so shocked that there weren’t that many people talking about it. People are kind of surprised that it’s an option, and they just want the step-by-step of how to do it,” Smith says. She has an impressive ability to problem solve for her own purposes, but it’s her willingness to develop resources for other artists that is truly unique. By offering transparent information, both through her courses and in videos she shares on Instagram, Smith creates a pathway for people who would otherwise not consider selling their artwork and free up time to dedicate to the actual creative process.

Smith is a mother of three children and notes that oil painting lends itself to life with young kids. “If you’re going to paint in acrylics, the layer is dry in five minutes, so you don’t have time to walk away,” she says. “But I set up my oil paintings, and they stay wet for three to four weeks, so if one of my kids needs me, I can just set my brush down. It just fits a lot better.”

Part of Smith’s philosophy is that surrounding yourself with beautiful artwork should be accessible to everyone. “What I love about the Etsy element is that most people aren’t going to spend hundreds of dollars on an original painting, but they might spend $40 on a print,” she says.

From creating paintings inspired by life alongside her family to developing resources for other artists to build passive income streams through their artwork, Smith has threaded a needle that is beautiful, inspiring and valuable for her family, her customers and her artistic, online community.

Shop Smith’s pieces through her etsy website, etsy.com/shop/mariahmarciaart.

mariahmarcia.com @mariah_mpls

Artist Mariah Smith believes in surrounding yourself with beautiful artwork. Smith’s work, available for purchase on Etsy, includes a variety of subjects ranging from still life to landscapes and portraits.

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OUR MISSION is to be our client’s rst call for nancial ADVICE, GUIDANCE and DIRECTION.

Advice

Each of these are de ned by us as:

A path, developed together as a team, tailored to your speciﬁc goals and ﬁnancial situation.

Advice

A path, developed together as a team, tailored to your speciﬁc goals and ﬁnancial situation.

Guidance

We serve as your reliable guide throughout your financial voyage, utilizing life simplifying and straightforward tools to assist you in making well-informed financial decisions in all areas of your financial life.

Direction

We look forward to the future with optimism, motivation, and inspiration while maintaining a vigilant focus on the present. Our client connections are built for the long haul, and our direction evolves alongside your journey through life.

Reach out today for a commitment-free, 30 minute ‘Ask Anything’ session to discover how we can be a game changer for you and your family!

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e: michaelm@M2ﬁnancialgroup.com

www.M2 nancialgroup.com

p: 763.416.8206 11272 86th Avenue N. Suite B Maple Grove, MN 55369

e: michaelm@M2ﬁnancialgroup.com

p: 763.416.8206 11272 86th Avenue N. Suite B Maple Grove, MN 55369

Securities and advisory services oﬀered through LPL Financial, a registered investment

HolidayGift Guide

FARIBAULT MILL

LAKE MINNETONKA MAP THROW

Iconic Lake Minnetonka woven into a timeless, cozy wool throw. $199–$245. Use Promo Code “HolidayGuide10” for a 10 percent discount.

Faribault Mill, 1500 Second Ave. NW, Faribault; 507.412.5534; faribaultmill.com Faribault Mill @faribaultmill

WAYZATA JEWELERS

1. PLATINUM DIAMOND RING AND ETERNITY BAND

Exquisite diamond ring and eternity band made by Wayzata Jewelers.

2. PREMIUM DIAMONDS AND GEMSTONES

Extensive array of stones for your ideal jewelry piece.

3. DIAMOND BRACELETS

Single or stacked will light up her smile and sparkle. Call for pricing.

Wayzata Jewelers, 1250 Wayzata Blvd. E., Wayzata; 952.473.2131; wayzatajewelers.com Wayzata Jewelers @wayzatajewelers

1. lululemon ABC CLASSICFIT TROUSER - WARPSTREME

Sleek pockets and easy-care fabric mean these trousers never look out of place. $128.

2. lululemon EVOLUTION SHORT-SLEEVE POLO SHIRT

Anti-stink technology, keeps you cool and comfortable on the course or wherever your day takes you. $88.

3. WAGGLE DECOY HAT

High-quality comfort and breathability in an endless array of fun designs. $35.

SHOPPES AT ARBOR LAKES

lululemon Maple Grove, 12229 Elm Creek Blvd. N., Maple Grove; lululemon.com lululemon @lululemon

Waggle Golf, 12111 Elm Creek Blvd. N., Maple Grove; 763.762.7698; getyourwaggleon.com Waggle Apparel @getyourwaggleon

AN EXPERIENCE TO WOODHOUSE SPA The perfect gift of a personalized spa experience to celebrate the season.

Maple Grove | The Shoppes at Arbor Lakes arborlakes.woodhousespas.com

Roseville | Rosedale Center rosedale.woodhousespas.com

Woodbury | Woodbury Lakes woodbury.woodhousespas.com

@woodhousespa_minnesota

SWEET IVY

1. IVORY FOX FAUX FUR VEST by Fabulous-Furs. Over 20 styles available.

2. EARMUFFS by Emu Australia sold in three colors.

3. MODERN CASHMERE SWEATERS by Pure Amici.

4. SPARTINA 449 TRAVEL ORGANIZER AND JEWELRY CASE

5. SPARTINA 449 COIN PURSE. A fabulous complement to any gift card.

6. NO TARNISH GOLD-FILLED JEWELRY by Enewton and Winifred design.

7. BAREFOOT DREAMS APRÈS SKI SWEATERS for the family. Full line of Barefoot Dreams for infant through adult.

1. WINTER APPAREL abounds for all your littles.

2. BAREFOOT DREAMS INFANT – TODDLER JOGGER SET.

3. EMU AUSTRALIA WINTER BOOTIES for infant and toddler.

4. MAILEG TOYS made in Denmark are shared, cherished and played with by children of all ages.

Galleria, 3510 W. 69th St., Edina

Flour Power

Written by Emily Gedde

Photos by Chris Emeott

Triple Chocolate Peppermint Espresso Cookies

Award-winning bakers share the ingredients for success.

Two local bakers know exactly what people need to satisfy a sweet tooth.

Featured for their mouthwatering talents, Zia McNeal and Annette Gustafson, both of Maple Grove, share the ingredients to success. Whether it’s blue ribbons at the Minnesota State Fair or being highlighted in cookbooks, these bakers know their way around the kitchen.

A SHARED PASSION

McNeal recalls a memory that triggered her desire to bake. As a young girl, she smelled a batch of cookies her mother was baking from two blocks away. Laughing, she says it was the only time her mother baked, but it left a lasting impression.

“That scent and that feeling of home stayed with me,” she says. “When I got to be older, I wanted to recreate that feeling.”

As a trained certified public accountant, McNeal’s days at the office would often run long, and baking served as a stress reliever. Even if a batch of cookies went into the oven at 10 p.m., it became what she needed to round out the day.

Eventually, the stress eased, and McNeal became a stay-at-home mother to her son, Tarik. Baking became a source of fun, and the simple recipes she started out with became more complex as her skills increased.

“One of the things on my bucket list was to see if my cookies were any good,” she says. “In 2008, I entered several cookies and cakes in the Minnesota State Fair. I won a blue ribbon for my Bundt Coffee Cake. I earned 99 out of 100 points.”

McNeal was determined to both enjoy and continue to master her

newfound passion for baking, and she now has a total of three blue ribbons.

“I love the joy of giving to others something they enjoy,” McNeal says of her favorite part of baking.

She also loves all the memories created in the kitchen with her and Tarik, who is now at college. The two spent much of his youth baking together, documenting their bond through photos and recipe books.

“I have wonderful memories of us baking together,” she says. “I highly encourage baking with your children. That bonding time we had is something I’m so glad we did.”

ONE-OF-A-KIND RECIPES

Unlike McNeal, Gustafson has multiple generations of bakers in her family who helped her develop her skill.

“For me, I really got into cookie baking,” Gustafson says. “I love the singleserve portion to satisfy a sweet tooth.”

Gustafson’s competitive cookie baking was inspired by a colleague who, after trying one of her cookies, said it was really delicious.

“That got me thinking I could get into competitions,” she says, noting she soon got into baking for the Minnesota State Fair contests. “It took several years before I even placed or got a ribbon, but there was so much about the experience that I loved. It really kept driving me to keep practicing and get better and better. Eventually, I started placing.”

Multiple blue ribbons and a grand champion ribbon later, Gustafson took on a new challenge—creating her own recipes.

“When you bake so much, you begin to have a familiarity with the ratio of ingredients to formulate and create

your own cookie,” she says.

Now, Gustafson’s pantry is always stocked with cookie-baking essentials as she continues growing her talent. Most recipes take about five to 10 attempts to get it to where she’s happy with the result.

And before anyone asks—no, she doesn’t have her own cookbook. Ironically, Gustafson dislikes writing down recipes. “I keep notes and records, but that’s about it,” she says with a laugh. “It’s a bit of a hot mess.”

and Rick Nelson’s The Ultimate Minnesota Cookie Book (University of Minnesota Press), released last month; it covers 20 years of winning recipes from The Minnesota Star Tribune’s holiday cookie contest. It has 102 cookie recipes and features 11 additional cookie recipes that are favorites of the co-authors. Find it at amazon.com, barnesandnoble.com, startribune.com and where books are sold.

Zia McNeal and Annette Gustafson are two of 95 bakers featured in Lee Svitak Dean

Triple Chocolate Peppermint Espresso Cookies

Recipe by Annette Gustafson, makes 22 cookies

“The recipe is based on my blue ribbon-winning Triple Chocolate Espresso Cookies, modified and made with peppermint for the holidays. The key to this recipe is the [Endangered Species Chocolate brand] Dark Chocolate Espresso Beans bar—just a fan as this bar makes the cookie what it is,” she says.

Ingredients

• 4 oz. bittersweet chocolate baking bar, chopped

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1/4 cup Dutch-process unsweetened cocoa powder

• 3 tsp. espresso powder

• 3/4 tsp. baking powder

• 1/2 tsp. baking soda

• 1/2 tsp. salt

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature

• 1/2 cup dark brown sugar

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

• 2 large eggs

• 1 tsp. vanilla extract

• 1 tsp. peppermint extract

• 3 oz. dark chocolate espresso bar, chopped

• 4 oz. white chocolate baking bar, chopped

• 2 oz. white chocolate baking bar, chopped for topping cookies

• 2 candy canes, crushed

Preheat oven to 350 F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Melt the bittersweet chocolate in the microwave in 20 second intervals, stirring after each interval. Set aside; allow to cool for 10–15 minutes. Whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, espresso powder, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Set aside. Cream the butter and sugars together, until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add the eggs, vanilla and peppermint extract, and mix until combined, about 1 minute. Add the melted chocolate; mix until combined, about 1 minute. Add the flour mixture and mix until combined. Add the chocolate espresso bar and white chocolate, mix until combined. Scoop balls of dough, about 2 Tbsp. per cookie (or use a #30 cookie scoop), and roll into balls. Press the tops of balls into the chopped white chocolate, and place onto the baking sheets, chocolate side up. Bake for 10–11 minutes or until the cookies begin to crack on top. Remove from oven; sprinkle with candy canes. Let them rest on baking sheet for 10 minutes, and transfer to wire cooling rack.

Annette Gustafson; @cookie.tentation

Bundt Coffee Cake

Recipe by Zia McNeal, makes one

“This Bundt Coffee Cake is great served with coffee, but it’s also great served on its own,” she says.

Batter

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp. baking powder

• 1 tsp. baking soda

• 1/2 tsp. salt

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature

• 1/2 cup granulated white sugar

• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar

• 2 large eggs, room temperature

• 1 tsp. vanilla extract

• 1 cup sour cream

• powdered sugar, optional

Streusel

• 1/3 cup packed light brown sugar

• 1/4 cup granulated white sugar

• 1 tsp. cinnamon

• 1 cup chopped walnuts (or other nuts)

Preheat oven to 350 F. Place oven rack in lower third of the oven. Grease a Bundt pan with baking spray. Make sure to grease all the crevices. In a medium bowl, add flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Whisk to combine. Set aside. In a small bowl, add streusel ingredients. Stir to combine. Set aside. Using a hand-held or stand mixer, cream butter and sugars until well combined. Add eggs, one at a time. Add vanilla extract. Add half of the dry mixture to the batter. Combine. Add half of the sour cream. Combine. Repeat. Stir until the batter is smooth. Add half of the batter to the Bundt pan. Sprinkle half of the streusel topping over batter. Add remaining batter, making sure to cover the streusel layer. Sprinkle remaining streusel topping. Bake at 350 F for 40 minutes. Allow to cool a few minutes before inverting onto serving platter. Dust with powdered sugar, if desired.

Zia McNeal; Basswood Bakery

Bundt Coffee Cake

A HOLIDAY CELEBRATION

All are welcome to join Santa for breakfast and lunch.

THE MAPLE GROVE Community Organization hosts its annual Breakfast and Lunch with Santa to celebrate the holidays. The event will include the meal, photos with Santa, over a dozen winterthemed games and more.

“All are invited … Families continue to come every year to take their Christmas card family photo with Santa, using the same background,” says committee chair Jason Pruhs.

The event will be December 7 at the Maple Grove Community Center in various rooms throughout. Breakfast is scheduled from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m., with

the lunch event following from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to bring nonperishable food items for the CROSS Food Bin.

“[My favorite part] is seeing everyone there and how popular the event is,” Pruhs says. “People really do look forward to [breakfast and lunch with Santa], and it’s one of our longest-running events.”—Tia Benson

Registration begins November 1. Spots fill up, so Pruhs recommends registering early. Find more information at mgco.org.

Photo: Maple Grove Community Organization

Compiled

Tia Benson and Findlay Drabant

LOCAL EVENTS

Veterans Day Event

11/11

Join the Commander of the Osseo-Maple Grove American Legion and Beyond the Yellow Ribbon for Veterans Day. All ages. Free. Noon–1 p.m. Veterans Memorial at Central Park, 12000 Central Park Way; 763.494.6500; maplegrovemn.gov

Home Show

11/16

See up to 150 exhibitors, which can handle just about any home project. All ages. Free. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Maple Grove Community Center, 12951 Weaver Lake Road; 952.232.1765; minnesotahomeshows.com

Sip & Shop

11/21

Shop a variety of items including home decor, jewelry, clothing, candles, wall art and more. Free. 4–8 p.m. Sundance Entertainment Center, 15240 113th Ave. N.; mncraftcollective.com

Santa at The Shoppes

12/07

Enjoy caroling, horse-drawn carriage rides, a light parade and marketplace, fire dancers, Santa and more—and don’t miss the tree lighting at 5 p.m. at the roundabout. All ages. Free. 2–5 p.m. The Shoppes at Arbor Lakes, 12459 Elm Creek Blvd. N.; 763.424.0504; shoppesatarborlakes.com

Pop Culture Opening

12/12

The Maple Grove Arts Center welcomes visitors to attend the opening of its winter show, Pop Culture All ages. Free. 5–9:30 p.m. Maple Grove Arts Center, 11666 Fountains Drive; 763.370.3003; maplegroveartscenter.org

Santa at the Loop

12/14

Join Santa and Mrs. Claus for an evening of skating. There will be a holiday light display and skate rentals available. All ages. Free. 5–8 p.m. Central Park, 12000 Central Park Way; 763.494.6500; maplegrovemn.gov

CANDLELIGHT MEMORIAL

Everyone is invited to the annual candlelight memorial at the Angel of Hope statue. Candles are provided, and participants are invited to bring a white flower for their loved one. All ages. Free. 7 p.m. Maple Grove Arboretum, 9400 Fernbrook Lane N.; 763.494.6500; maplegrovemn.gov

DECEMBER

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AREA EVENTS

First Fridays Art Crawl 11/01

On the first Friday of every month, tour the galleries, studios and art ist lofts that make up St. Paul’s his toric Lowertown. All ages. Free. 5–9 p.m. Calendula Gallery, 275 E. Fourth St., St. Paul; 612.849.8083; calendulagallery.com

Havoc at the Pavek 11/02

The Pavek Museum of Electronic Communication hosts a spooky, monsterfilled escape room with STEM activities for everybody. All ages. Free. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Pavek Museum, 3517 Raleigh Ave., St. Louis Park; 952.926.8198; pavekmuseum.org

Filmmaker and Composer

Pairings with Alarm Will Sound 11/21

Enjoy showings of various short films, accompanied by music from a live orchestra. All ages. $30–$50. 7 p.m. Northrop Auditorium, 84 Church St. SE, Mpls.; 612.624.2345; northrop.umn.edu

Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live 11/23–11/24

Gather around and have a truckin’ good time at this monster truck party and show. All ages. Prices vary. 12:30–5 p.m. Target Center, 600 N. First Ave., Mpls.; targetcenter.com

Turkey Day 5K 11/28

Race through the streets of downtown Minneapolis at this festive fun run. All ages. $54–$60. 8 a.m. Fourth Street and Hennepin Avenue, Mpls.; 651.289.7700; tcmevents.org

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

PreK - Grade 12

We invite you to visit and experience the difference.

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A Sunny Snowstorm

Debra Bernard captures her pup enjoying a snow day.

“This photo was taken right after our April snowstorm that left us with 11 inches of snow,” says lifestyle photographer Debra Bernard. “It was so sunny and warm outside, I had to grab my camera and get a few shots of my Vizsla.” —Hailey Almsted

To learn more about Bernard, and to view other Focus on Maple Grove photo contest winners, visit maplegrovemag.com.

Photographer: Debra Bernard

Title: Snow Day

Equipment: Canon R6 with a Canon 70–200 mm f/2.8 lens

Location: Bernard’s backyard in Maple Grove

Category: Pets

Award: First Place

Hey America,

Let’s talk...

All over America, strangers with different political views are coming together, two at a time, to talk about their lives—not debate politics—and discovering they actually have a lot in common.

Let’s talk... for a change.

All over America, strangers with different political views are coming together, two at a time, to talk about their lives—not debate politics—and discovering they actually have a lot in common.

If you’re among the 9 out of 10 Americans who are tired of our country’s divisions, check out One Small Step, where you can listen to these meaningful conversations and sign up to participate.

Let’s talk... for a change.

All over America, strangers with different political views are coming together, two at a time, to talk about their lives—not debate politics—and discovering they actually

If you’re among the 9 out of 10 Americans who are tired of our country’s divisions, check out One Small Step, where you can listen to these meaningful conversations and sign up to participate.

If you’re among the 9 out of 10 Americans who are tired of our country’s divisions, check out One Small Step, where you can listen to these meaningful conversations

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