Stylist offers wardrobe recommendations to exquisitely match the season
WAYZATA HIGHLANDS
Discover 154 Babcock Lane - a rare wooded half-acre in downtown Wayzata with a pool, patio, and inviting entertaining spaces Walk to Lake Street, Wayzata Beach, and restaurants
Features a main-floor guest suite, office, and wine room
Pete Ice 612-865-8533
Join us on Wednesday, December 17th from 5:00-7:00pm for a Holiday Open House. Wine and hor d’oeuvres will be served 154 Babcock Lane, Wayzata
MINNETONKA BEACH
LIVING AWAITS
Janet Boschwitz
612-804-8720
Discover lakeside living at its finest in this coveted Lake Minnetonka community! Timeless Nantucketstyle home on 82’ of Crystal Bay lakeshore will delight you with bright, open spaces filled with natural light & panoramic lake views.
LAKE MINNETONKA
CHARMER
Jeff Stephenson
612-578-8820
Over an acre on Lake Minnetonka with a community pool and pool house. 5 bedroom, 3 bath walkout rambler in the popular Landings neighborhood. The opportunities are endless! 830 Co Rd 110 N
FERNDALE NORTH TRADITIONAL
Lezlie and Les Bork
612-396-0232
Great location: end of cul-de-sac overlooking wetlands. 4 bedroom/4 bathroom on upper level, traditional 2 story home on private lot in fantastic neighborhood.
7423 TRISTAN KNOLL
Jeff Stephenson
612-578-8820
Open enroll to Minnetonka Schools. Bus pick up is only a block away. Come see this beautiful 5 bedroom, 4 bath home that is meticulously maintained inside and out while offering landscaping that goes above and beyond. Tucked away on a private cul-de-sac with a .56 acre lot.
Joy. Full.
We’d like to take this opportunity to say thank you to our customers for shopping here, to our employees for working here, to our partners for growing and making great products and selling them here. Thank you.
May your holiday season be full of happiness, kindness and, most of all, the joy of good food.
12
Raising Her Voice
Local singer set to take the Ordway stage with Angelica Cantanti.
14
The Art of Dress
Stylist offers wardrobe recommendations to exquisitely match the season.
18
Wayzata Wellspring
ModernWell co-working space opens a new location near Lake Minnetonka.
24
Fun on the Rocks
Frozen Lake Minnetonka serves a wintry mix of outdoor activities.
31
Books and Bows
Open up a world of experiential gifting, learning and living.
36
Donamae’s Double Duty
Let holiday desserts serve up sweet flavors and stunning table décor.
8 Editor’s Letter 10 Noteworthy
42 On the Town 46 Gallery
48 Last Glance
Stress Less, Wag More
Make sure your pet is photo ready.
Photo: Chris Emeott
from the EDITOR
What a year! As we close out 2025, I want to give one last nod to our 20th anniversary year. While May was our “official” anniversary month, when we were graciously fêted at Art Girls during a lovely evening of celebration and community, we marked the entire year as one of appreciation to our devoted readers and loyal advertisers. As I peer into 2026, I look forward to sharing more of the Lake Minnetonka area with all of you.
Before we move too quickly into January, we have a lot to celebrate this month, including this issue—focusing on giving back and family, which this time of year naturally embraces and illuminates. You’ll find articles that touch on those topics within our pages, and I hope you find them informative and inspirational.
You’ll also discover a feature on page 31 that offers ideas for purchasing and gifting children’s, fiction and nonfiction books that come recommended by some of our contributors and team at Local. We regularly include book recommendations in our Noteworthy section, and it’s a resource I return to again and again when I need some ideas for myself or the bibliophiles in my family and friend circles.
While I enjoy reading and gifting books of all sorts, I also often utilize books as décor elements within my home. Ideal to elevate framed photos, table lamps, vases and the like, and add personality and texture to a room, well-read and loved books can fortify a home’s design story. Consider visiting any of our local booksellers, boutiques and stores to discover ways to incorporate books into your reading and decorating pursuits.
Happy shopping and gifting. And from our entire team, cheers to the holidays and another decade of bringing you the best of Lake Minnetonka life.
Until next year,
Renée Stewart-Hester renee@localmedia.co
On the Cover: Jessica Hilde, page 14
Photo: Chris Emeott
Photo by: Amy Jeanchaiyaphum Photography
VOL. 20 NO. 8
December 2025
PUBLISHER
Susan Isay
EDITOR
Renée Stewart-Hester
MANAGING CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Renée Stewart-Hester
MANAGING EDITOR
Hailey Almsted
DIGITAL EDITOR
Madeline Kopiecki
COPY EDITORS
Kellie Doherty and Sherri Hildebrandt
STAFF WRITERS
Mollee Francisco, Emily Gedde, Meredith Heneghan, Jennifer Pitterle and Paige Udermann
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Andrew Akhaphong, Hollie Blanchard, Alison Feik, Stephanie Herrick, Jessica Hilde, Lynette Kalsnes, Spencer Olson, Rima Parikh, Molly Rivard, Raela Schoenherr, Lisa Stevens, Katie Tomsche and Mariah Wise
DIGITAL INTERN
Claire Krieger
EDITORIAL INTERNS
Diane Meyer and Avery Vrieze
EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD
Mary Cornelius, Minnetonka Schools ; David Decker, House Novel ; Sue Gartner, Crown Warehouse & Delivery Service ; Kelly Olsen, Olsen Global ; Michele Phillips, blogger, writer and photographer ; Anna Skemp, Greater Wayzata Area Chamber of Commerce ; and Amanda Zielike, House Novel
If a penny saved is a penny earned, then there are plenty of pennies to go around by shopping at PennyWise Thrift Store. Treasures abound at the nonprofit in the Grace Family Center, 2443 Commerce Blvd., Mound. “It’s almost easier to say what you can’t find,” says Sheryl Delke, manager.
This time of year, many are in search of ways to give back to the local community through making donations or offering volunteer time. PennyWise is primarily run through two part-time employees and more than 60 volunteers, working anywhere from one shift a month to four
History of Giving
While Christmas gift-giving fuels today’s consumer economy, its roots go back to the 1870s and 1880s, following the growing traditions of Christmas cards and decorated trees. Gifts were given to strengthen family bonds and foster a sense of giving to the community.
Charles and Mary Burwell built their now historic house in Minnetonka in 1883. A few years later at Christmastime, it was filled with the sounds of four children, the scent of baking cookies and gifts under the tree. Among those gifts were surely books, which the Burwells enjoyed—as evidenced by the books on display in the home. One such book is inscribed: “Loring D. Burwell, Xmas 1893, A Merry Christmas from George.” Loring, the youngest of the four Burwell children, was then 9 years old.
Other examples of Burwell generosity included a land donation by Mary Burwell for the building of Burwell School. (Her daughter Louise became the librarian.) The school building was acquired by St. David’s Center for Child & Family Development. In 1955, Louise and her brother George donated the land for St. David’s Episcopal Church.
Barb Lindgren is a member of the City of Minnetonka Historical Society board of directors. Discover more at minnetonka-history.org.
The Burwell House’s parlor is festively decorated for holiday tours, which are held before Christmas. To learn more about the Burwell family and their historic home, visit cityofminnetonkahistory.org.
shifts a week, sorting, pricing and stocking donations; operating the cash register and providing customer service. (Find details at ourladyofthelake.com.)
Volunteers have been at the heart of PennyWise Thrift Store since its inception in 1969 when the incoming pastor for Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church saw a need for more social services in the community. “It all began with just a small amount of people packing food and clothes,” Delke says. Fifty-six years later, the mission has remained largely the same: “to minimize environmental impact through re-use and recycling while maximizing the generosity of each donation.” Donations are welcome during store hours, and most
items are accepted, apart from furniture.
While quirky items abound, for those looking for high-end treasures, there are plenty to find. Shoppers with designer tastes should visit the Oval Rack (a nod to the former Dayton’s Oval Room) where volunteers stock all of the designer donations—some with the tags still attached.
Proceeds from sales are poured back into the community, benefiting a number of nonprofit groups, including the Gillespie Center, Meals on Wheels, WeCAB, WeCAN, Westonka Food Shelf and more. For donations PennyWise is unable to accept, its charity partners, including St. Olaf’s Samaritan Ministry and Mary’s Place, are offered the items. —Mollee Francisco
Photo:
City of Minnetonka Historical Society
It Adds up to Fun
Ben Orlin, a St. Paul teacher turned author, has collected old fashioned paper-and-pencil games from around the world. Math Games with Bad Drawings: The Ultimate Game Collection features 75 math-inspired games, each easy to learn, endlessly playable and perfect for all ages. If you can play tic-tac-toe, you’re already off to a great start.
Orlin shares fascinating stories about the games’ origins, why they matter mathematically and tips for variations that keep players coming back for more.
For the holidays, I recommend the party in a box game kit. Based on the book, this all-in-one kit contains 34 of Orlin’s favorite games along with dice, notepads, pencils, a rules booklet and Orlin’s signature stick figure drawings.
The book and the kit make perfect holiday picks for screen-free family fun that sneakily cultivates curiosity and critical thinking. Laugh, collaborate and discover a shared love of math along the way—no experience (or artistic talent) required!
Rima Parikh is the owner of the Thinking Spot, which focuses on STEM-related books and games. Play more at thethinkingspot.us.
Maple Pound Cake
This recipe is light and fluffy, filling the kitchen with the dreamy scent of maple syrup. And that buttery maple-rum glaze? It forms a golden, almost butterscotch-like crust, taking this cake to the next level. It’s an outstanding make-ahead hostess gift that can be enjoyed as a midnight snack or breakfast the next day. Plus, this recipe makes two loaves—one to keep and one to gift.
For the Maple Pound Cake:
» 2 cups cake flour, plus more for dusting
» 1 tsp. baking powder
» 1 tsp. kosher salt
» ½ tsp. baking soda
» 1 ½ sticks unsalted butter, room temperature, plus more for greasing
» 2/3 cup brown sugar, packed
» 2 large eggs, room temperature
» ½ cup pure maple syrup
» 1 cup sour cream, room temperature
» 1 tsp. vanilla extract
» ¼ tsp. maple extract
For the Maple-Rum Glaze:
» 2 Tbsp. unsalted butter
» ½ cup pure maple syrup
» ¼ cup dark rum
For the complete recipe, visit lakeminnetonkamag.com.
Katie Tomsche is the content manager for Lunds & Byerlys. Taste more at lundsandbyerlys.com.
Raising Her Voice
By Diane Meyer
How many performers dream of looking out at an audience from the stage at the Ordway? Madeleine Schroeder—only 12—already had her chance.
Madeleine, a seventh grader at Minnetonka Middle School East, started singing with Angelica Cantanti Youth Choirs, based in Bloomington, as a soprano when she was 7 years old. She credits the choir with serving as an impactful extracurricular outlet from her busy schedule and as a wonderful way to meet peers who are just as enthusiastic about music as she is. “[It’s] a good opportunity to make friends
and connections with other people,” Madeleine says. “There’s less stage fright because there’s other people too.”
Angelica Cantanti brings together young singers from the Twin Cities for high quality musical enrichment and performances. This month the choir, celebrating its 45th anniversary, is performing a concert at the Ordway, inviting families, friends and the greater community to share in the joy of its 10 talent-filled and vibrant choirs. Madeleine will be among the performers.
Madeleine, who also has instrumental musical interest and plays saxophone in
Photo: Angelica Cantanti Youth Choirs
Local singer set to take the Ordway stage with Angelica Cantanti.
her school band, says that she loves “any type of art” and takes every opportunity she can to listen to music. With Angelica Cantanti, Madeleine has primarily been exposed to classical pieces and has learned to love the special storytelling of the choir’s performances. “But I love all the different genres,” she says of the wide world of musical possibilities.
This sense of musical and artistic wonder is exactly what leaders at Angelica Cantanti hope to foster in young people. Executive director Audrey Riddle notes that the choir is ideal for singers who care about music. “I love seeing them grow,” Riddle says of the singers. “I love to see them fall in love with choir.”
During her first year participating in Angelica Cantanti, Madeleine was given a solo, which she performed at the Basilica of Saint Mary and the spring concert at the Ordway. Another highlight for Madeleine was singing a solo in Japanese, a challenge not uncommon for Angelica Cantanti members. Riddle notes that they challenge the tenacious singers with unique arrangements and songs in foreign languages. Singing is a passion and skill that Riddle hopes all the young artists at Angelica Cantanti will continue to nurture throughout their lives.
To get a true taste of the depth of the choirs’ talent, Riddle encourages the community to attend Angelica Cantanti’s performance (4:30 p.m., featuring Con Brio, Cantabile and the concert choir, and 7:30 p.m., featuring the concert choir, Treble Singers and Cantanti Singers) December 7 at the Ordway, a treasured Metro venue with wonderful acoustics. “Come and hear young voices,” she says. “There’s just nothing like it.” Madeleine’s mother, Ani Barr, already knows the thrill of being in the audience when the choirs perform. “I’m continually impressed,” she says.
Angelica Cantanti Youth Choirs angelicacantanti.org angelicachoirs
The Ordway Center for Performing Arts ordway.org @the_ordway
Rehearsal at Orchestra Hall, Minneapolis
The Art of Dress
Stylist offers wardrobe recommendations to exquisitely match the season.
By Renée Stewart-Hester
You’re not alone if the holiday season ranks up there as a favorite time of year when it comes to style. Jessica Hilde agrees. The Wayzata-based, awardwinning stylist, personal shopper and wardrobe consultant relishes the seasonal opportunities to dress up, and she wants others to look good too. “I am a big fan of women feeling and looking their best,” Hilde says, pointing to special items that are bedazzled or feature leather, satin, velvet or “… something that says: holiday season. Women look amazing this time of year when they bring out the bling, and in pictures, you always look better when the fabrics are shiny and pick up the light, like sequins,” she says.
But answering the age-old question, “What should I wear?” can be challenging during the holidays when expectations can run high. “My go-to for the holidays is a gorgeous sweater,” Hilde says. “Cashmere, wool or velvet just screams the holiday season. Pick something that has a subtle embellishment, on a collar or sleeve, or a sweater that is dusted with sparkles. You don’t have to overdo it—just a little something festive always looks great.”
Art direction and styling, Jessica Hilde Style
Model, Jessica Hilde
Fashion assistant, Kathryn Gefre
Hair and makeup, Donna D Kelly
Photos, Amy Jeanchaiyaphum Photography
WINTER STANDBYS
After the holidays are said and done, one can and should still look fabulous. Stylist Jessica Hilde appreciates a suit for work and everyday life. “If done in the right, tone on tone [matching jacket and pant], it can be not only flattering on any shape but slimming,” she says.
And one can’t ignore outerwear, especially this time of year. Don’t skimp. “Invest in something special you can bring out every year like a trench coat in cashmere,” Hilde says. “You will never regret this purchase, especially living in Minnesota. I love a coat that covers my derrière and is not only warm but chic and the perfect travel piece for winter.”
Frasier Fir
Pop Culture Ornaments
Christopher Radko
Nora Fleming
Personalized Ornaments
water globes
Once the sweater is on deck, what’s next? “I love pairing a simple elegant sweater with a well-fitted leather pant,” Hilde says, noting she styles women of all ages in leather. “If done right by fit, leather pants are always in.” She points to brands Frame, Khaite and 3.1 Phillip Lim. Her splurge leather pant goes to Lafayette 148. To complete the look, Hilde says, “Skip the ankle boots. They are out. Opt for something more elegant that elongates the leg. [Consider] a pointed-toe shoe in a velvet or satin finish to achieve a wow moment.”
What’s an outfit without an exclamation point—or two? “What says holidays more than fabulous jewelry?” Hilde says, noting fashion is still going furious for dainty necklaces with diamonds, and she suggests stackable pieces or a statement piece over a simple white cotton blouse, paired with a leather trouser. “This is très chic and effortless,” she says.
Cranberry, plum and sage aren’t just ideal ingredients for a festive recipe. Hilde points to the deeply pigmented hues as the perfect holiday color palette.
“Most importantly, be that girl who is dressed up,” Hilde says. “The holiday season is about the art of dress, feeling sexy and feminine. Try to branch out of the casual lifestyle, and opt for pieces that make you shine.”
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14: Satin blazer and matching trouser, Alice + Olivia; Long-sleeved bodysuit, Gucci; Top left: Bomber fur jacket, The Frankie Shop; Patent leather pants, Alice + Olivia; Velvet and rhinestone heels, Tamara Mellon; Top right: Feather-cuffed top, Alice + Olivia; Metallic brocade skirt, Lafayette 148; 6.5-carat diamond amoeba gold plated sterling silver cocktail ring, Gretchen Ventura; Bottom left: Raspberry blouse, A.L.C.; Patent leather skirt, A.L.C.; Bottom right: James rhinestone-embellished crepe blazer, A.L.C.; Blouse, Lafayette 148; Rhinestone tights, Zara; Skort, Amanda Uprichard; YSL Brooch, Yves Saint Laurent
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Mountain lodge-inspired home w/ 10-car garage on 14 acres. 5 bedroom suites, great room with walls of windows and a 27-ft fireplace. Indoor gym, game room, and media room. Outdoor sport court, sauna, minutes from Orono/ Westonka schools, and WindSong Golf Club.
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Page
When Minnetonka’s Julie Burton first envisioned ModernWell, her Minneapolis co-working space, she wanted to craft a sanctuary for professionals seeking connection and inspiration. “It’s a space where people can get out of their house or their office and carve out time for themselves to work on their business, or work on their novel, or meet people and explore possibilities,” Burton says.
The original Minneapolis space, which opened in 2018, is what Burton calls “woman-centered” (although it welcomes folks of all genders) and hosts everyone from freelance writers to C-suite executives. The concept was born of Burton’s own experience as an author, freelance journalist and public relations marketing executive and part of the fitness and wellness space—while trying to balance
work and motherhood. “I yearned for a space to go that wasn’t just the library or a coffee shop—a space that I could sort of call my own,” she says. ModernWell Minneapolis hosts members in its serene co-working area, featuring individual desks, group meeting spaces and private offices, and has welcomed writing clubs, networking events and more.
Fast forward to late 2019, and ModernWell Minneapolis was thriving. Burton wanted to maintain the location’s capacity (“… so people weren’t having to hunt for a desk,” she says). And those members, many of whom live in the Lake Minnetonka area, started asking for another location closer to home. “I started looking,” she says. “I loved the energy in Wayzata. It’s a walkable little town; you can grab lunch or go for happy
Left: Belén Fleming, owner of Belu Photography, takes a meeting in the ModernWell conference room.
Right: Julie Burton of Minnetonka is a connector, bringing together people with various talents and interests.
“I want to give people space to connect and create and work and evolve and really to build their dreams.”
Julie Burton of ModernWell
hour around work.” But just as she had a lease in hand, COVID-19 erupted, upending her plans. “My focus became just keeping the Minneapolis location alive,” she says. And she did.
ModernWell is finally getting its westward expansion—to a beautifully turned out space in Wayzata that opened in September. With 2,500 square feet, ModernWell Wayzata includes an open co-working area, plus six private offices, conference rooms and other flexible spaces, including a reservable phone booth and a recording booth. “We also offer our space as an after-hour and weekend community gathering space,” Burton says, so local groups can hold
book talks, celebratory get-togethers, fundraisers, nonprofit meetings and more. “We really want to be part of the Wayzata community and have our membership be part of that too,” Burton says.
One local member who’s making use of the new Wayzata space is Belén Fleming, owner of Belu Photography. She’s been a member at the Minneapolis location since the beginning. “I live in Excelsior, so I’m especially excited to have a space that brings creative energy and community even closer to home,” Fleming says. “I use it for focused workdays, client meetings and meaningful community connection.”
And Dré Barthel, who lives in Maple Grove isn’t just bringing her own “desk”
to ModernWell Wayzata—she’s bringing her whole staff. Her business, Covey, a boutique marketing and event consulting firm, rents one of the private office suites in the new space. “We are thrilled to have the opportunity to build relationships in the co-working spaces too,” Barthel says. “My desire is to be a resource, a calm and bright presence … and to learn from the ModernWell family.”
Burton says she’s pleased to bring ModernWell “home” to the lake area after the uncertainty of the pandemic years— and excited to see where things might go. “I want to give people space to connect and create and work and evolve—and really to build their dreams,” she says.
Mary Meighan, MD
Brian Zelickson, MD
Jennifer Biglow, MD
David W. Groth, MD
Kyle Rudningen, MD
As owner of Covey, a boutique marketing and event consulting firm, Dré Barthel works in one of the ModernWell’s private office suites.
GIVING WELL
ModernWell lives out its focus on community and philanthropy. The company offers need-based scholarships for its memberships and donates to various charities, including Twin Cities-based nonprofits and other causes that members bring to owner Julie Burton’s attention. “We also have specific charities we’ll donate to each quarter,” she says. “We want to keep bringing more structure to our charitable giving.” Last month, ModernWell Wayzata collected food donations for Pack Away Hunger, a program run by Temple Israel.
DESIGNING WOMEN
ModernWell Wayzata’s interior spaces were designed by Stephany Eaton, owner of PureAlchemy Design. “We wanted the space to feel like a breath of fresh air—intentionally calm, elevated and rooted in a strong sense of belonging,” Eaton says. She used soft patterns and a serene palette of blues and grays to set the tone. Warm wood and boardand-batten details nod subtly to Lake Minnetonka. The environment should “support both quiet focus and collaborative energy,” she says. “Ultimately, we were designing not just how the space would look but how it would feel to be there.”
Frozen Lake Minnetonka serves a wintry mix of outdoor activities.
Written by Diane Meyer and Renée Stewart-Hester
Photos by Chris Emeott
When Lake Minnetonka—in all its dynamic beauty—sits right in your community backyard, it warrants attention—all year-round. We’re well versed by now when it comes to warm-weather exploits. Winter also welcomes a host of outdoor activities, and some of them include utilizing the frozen lake in fun and, sometimes, bold ways.
The ice plays host to fishing, golfing (We see you Wayzata’s Chilly Open.), skating and more. Among those “more” are ice sailing and cold plunge endeavors, which we decided to explore with a closer lens.
WINDY WINTER THRILLS
Alex Peterson remembers ice sailing on a frozen lake for the first time when he was just 5 years old. “It stuck with me forever,” he says. “It was just so exciting and so wild.”
Fast forward, and Peterson has made a career out of his enthusiasm for extreme sports. A co-founder of SkyBrothers Paragliding, a Wayzatabased adventure company, he loves
sharing exhilarating experiences with others, including paragliding. Just last winter, SkyBrothers added ice sailing as a new endeavor for lake lovers.
Peterson says hurtling along the lake “like a rocket ship” at 50 miles per hour in his ice boat is just a normal winter afternoon for Peterson, who started offering his friends rides on a whim. He remembers that “people just kept calling” and asking to get an hour on the ice with him, cruising around Lake Minnetonka to experience the electrifying acceleration and wind. “It just blew up,” he says. Peterson decided to make it official: “I was like, ‘Let’s do it.’ And I got three boats.”
The instant popularity of ice sailing last year was unexpected for SkyBrothers. “I think one weekend we gave like 80 or 90 rides,” Peterson says. Bringing riders out on the lake in two-person style boats (Nites), Peterson shows riders the ropes— literally. “If you want to learn, I’ll turn that ride into a teaching experience. By the end of it, you’re sailing the whole boat with yourself,” he says. A new perspective
Only the winter-bare shoreline separates the blue hues of the sky above and Lake Minnetonka below as riders prepare for an icy turn across the frozen playing field.
SMOOTH SAILING
Photographer Chris Emeott isn’t used to being part of the action. Rather, he normally can be found out of sightlines, taking photos of the scenes before him from all the best angles. As the talented lead photographer for Lake Minnetonka Magazine and our suite of sister publications throughout the Metro, readers and followers often see Emeott’s inspired work in our pages and on our social media platforms. This time, there’s more to his story.
Emeott stepped into view by way of ice sailing around Lake Minnetonka’s Wayzata Bay with SkyBrothers Paragliding. The experience was new to him. “I try to avoid wide open spaces when it’s freezing cold out,” he humorously says. “I’ve never been propelled by much other than an engine while on ice.”
But as Emeott is for most assignments placed before him, he was game to give the sport a try. Donned in winter gear (He says, “It was extremely cold!”), a face mask and a helmet, he found himself ice sailing under a beautiful, clearblue sky and a bit of welcomed wind. “It was very peaceful— occasionally hearing the skates on the rig dig into the ice while turning or the rustling of the sail when it caught a new direction of wind,” he says.
For those interested in ice sailing, Emeott has what one might consider to be a very Minnesotan recommendation: “Dress for the weather,” he says.
on the lake is what entices people the most, Peterson shares, and Wayzata Bay was “absolutely stunningly safe and beautiful last winter,” he remembers.
Peterson says that he does not get much of a thrill anymore, as a life spent pursuing extreme sports, including hot air ballooning, paragliding and wingsuit skydiving, has normalized high-speed sports for him. “So being able to share [that thrill] with other people is really my favorite thing in the world,” he says. “The fun part is just looking at the astonishment on everybody’s faces.” He loves the
“holy moly moment [when] everybody is just like, ‘This is so cool.’”
Lake Minnetonka area’s Molly Lang, who administers the Facebook group Our Lake Minnetonka Crew, loves everything about the lake, and she was looking for something new when she decided to try ice sailing. During her first ride with Peterson, Lang remembers seeing the view of Wayzata whiz by. “It was breathtaking,” she says. “Being on the ice was just completely different.”
Lang says that Peterson makes the experience special. “Alex has this really
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fabulous combination of just being an easy-going guy who has all this exciting stuff to offer and just wants to welcome people into it,” she says. “I would only ever do something like this if I felt 100 percent confident that I was in really good hands.” Peterson’s passion for introducing people to ice sailing is palpable. “You can just tell how happy it makes him,” Lang says.
While colder temps pull some people indoors, for others, they serve as a calling card to gather outdoors in the spirit of community, friendship and wellness.
LEARNING FROM THE LAKE
Paul Frantzich wasn’t a fan of the cold. But taking an icy plunge for the first time four years ago during a frozen Minnesota February, he suddenly felt as though “nature was aware” of him, he says.
Frantzich was invigorated by his resilience as he overcame his initial fear of the cold water. Submerged up to his chest, he made it a minute and a half with a friend’s encouragement—longer than he thought he would. Exhilaration gave way to a sense of calm and a profound consciousness of the lake. “It was like going home,” says the Excelsior resident.
Frantzich enlisted a few other intrigued individuals, including his wife, Alison Feik, to carve out what became their first shared opening in Lake Minnetonka off of Excelsior Commons beach. He put his marketing background to good use and named his gutsy cold plunge crew the Emperors of Excelsior (EOE), a nod to their penguin counterparts in Antarctica.
Since its first plunge, EOE has expanded over three years to include more than 50 members. One member even flies from California to take an icy dip. Group plunges are loosely organized by a group chat. (“Anyone going to waddle today?” is a common query.) “It’s all about ‘camaraderie and community,’” Frantzich says.
Paul Frantzich reminds that safety is a priority, especially when it comes to cold plunging in frozen open water. He and other Emperors of Excelsior members diligently maintain their Lake Minnetonka open spot in the ice by checking it daily and taking care to cautiously enter the water to adjust to the water temperature.
Those interested in joining in on the icy fun can email Frantzich at paul@paulfrantzich.com.
Use extreme caution. Be sure to check ice conditions before attempting to go on frozen waterways. And consider contacting your health care professional to determine if cold plunging is the right fit for you.
Sara Doherty took Frantzich up on the invitation to cold plunge for the first time two years ago and is hooked. “It’s addicting,” the Excelsior resident says of the reset that brings her “energy and clarity for the whole day.”
Doherty cold plunges two or three times a week. “It makes me be present in the moment,” she says
Not everyone is ready to hop in. Frantzich understands initial hesitation on the part of newcomers and notes how empowering it is to watch those he has introduced to the activity grow more comfortable with the frigid water.
He describes the sensation of cold plunging as: “a euphoric spike, a wonderful rush and joy.” Frantzich also notes improved circulation within 15 minutes of getting out of the water as he feels his body coming out of constriction, and he underscores the dopamine boost during the year’s coldest and darkest months. “I just feel happy,” he says, reflecting on his early mornings of respite with friends on Lake Minnetonka.
Frantzich, who cold plunges daily (sometimes even twice), has learned to stay grounded in his breath during the experience. “It makes me a better person … a better partner, a better dad,” Frantzich says.
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Writen by Renée Stewart-Hester — Photos by Chris Emeott
BOOKS AND BOWS
Open up a world of experiential gifting, learning and living.
Make gift giving easier this season by leaning into a specialty theme or carefully curated focus. With experiential gifting maintaining its holiday footing and the inclination to eliminate clutter remaining strong, the gift
of books, which can be shared with others to enjoy or repurposed into topshelf décor (Think: “bookshelf wealth” and coffee and end table styling), can easily wrap up your holiday shopping endeavors.
To provide a starting point for your book selections, we’ve included titles that have received appreciative nods in our Noteworthy section in Lake Minnetonka Magazine and a few of our sister publications across the Metro.
CHILDREN’S
Easter on the Farm by Minnesota author Phyllis Alsdurf and illustrated by Lisa Hunt features a girl who visits her aunt and uncle’s farm and helps prepare for her family’s annual Easter celebration.
Sarah Nelson’s Firefly Galaxy, illustrated by Estrellita Caracol, celebrates the magic of fireflies. Many of Nelson’s books center on nature themes and are a pleasure to read for both kids and adults.
Known for his whimsical stories, David LaRochelle’s book, Go and Get with Rex, illustrated by Mike Wohnoutka, follows Jack, Jill and Rex as they play a game with some very silly outcomes.
Our Planet! There’s No Place Like Earth by Stacy McAnulty is the sixth installment of the Our Universe series.
Plant a Pocket of Prairie by Minnesota author Phyllis Root and illustrated by Betsy Bowen highlights how native prairie plants help recreate food and habitat for birds, butterflies and other animals that depend on them.
Tyrannosaurus Tsuris: A Passover Story by Susan Tarcov, illustrated by Elissambura and released by a Minneapolis-based publisher is about a dinosaur attempting to host a Passover Seder.
FICTION
Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid (Daisy Jones & The Six) follows Joan Goodwin, a physics and astronomy professor. When a position opens to join NASA’s Space Shuttle program, Goodwin applies and is selected.
Debut novel Banyan Moon by Thao Thai features a woman who reconnects with her estranged mother. The second and third generation VietnameseAmerican women deal with family secrets, their fractured relationship and more.
First Lie Wins by Ashley Elston features Evie, a swindler deep in the depths of the perfect con, but she begins to suspect that she might be the one being deceived.
Best-selling author Mia Sheridan’s Heart of the Sun, set in the California orange groves, includes childhood friends Emily Swanson, a rising pop sensation, and Tuck Mattice, who is just out of prison. The duo is brought together when Swanson hires Mattice as her bodyguard.
James: A Novel by Percival Everett
is a bold retelling of Mark Twain’s The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn from the perspective of Jim, transformed into James, offering a searing exploration of freedom, identity and survival.
Love & Other Words by Christina Lauren pairs childhood sweethearts who reconnect after years of separation to navigate a second chance at their love.
Nightwatching by Tracy Sierra is a nail-biting, locked-room thriller that can make readers think twice about staying home alone in the dark. Yikes!
Once There Were Wolves by Charlotte McConaghy features Inti Flynn, part of a team of biologists who come to Scotland to reintroduce wolves to the landscape. This novel has mystery, conflict, romance and intriguing characters to keep readers hooked from beginning to end.
So We Meet Again by Suzanne Park tells the story of a relatable young woman, working to find her place in life. A charming cast of characters and a budding romance with Daniel Choi, her childhood nemesis, add to this comforting, romantic read.
Sunrise on the Reaping by Suzanne Collins follows the 50th annual Hunger Games. In honor of the Quarter Quell, there are twice as many tributes, including District 12’s Haymitch Abernathy. Torn from his family and love and brought to the Capitol, Haymitch understands that he has something to fight for—and he wants to fight.
The Funeral Ladies of Ellerie County by Claire Swinarski includes a hotshot chef who arrives in a small town and a group of Wisconsin church ladies coming together to create a cookbook.
The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon is about a local midwife who knows the truth behind the body found entombed in ice, but it is the 1700s, and women are seen, not heard.
The Paris Gown by Christine Wells is a light read for all who love Paris, fashion and the power of female friendships. Claire (an aspiring Parisian chef), Margot (an Australian, hiding from her husband) and Gina (an aspiring American novelist) became friends, bonding over Dior.
The Rehearsals by Annette Christie includes Tom and Megan who have reached the night of their wedding rehearsal. What should be a magical weekend turns into a disaster and ends with the happy couple calling the whole thing off—until they wake up the next morning!
NONFICTION
Animal, Vegetable, Miracle by Barbara Kingsolver sees the Pulitzer Prizewinning author and her family embark on a monumental journey—living one calendar year subsisting on food grown by themselves or within 100 miles of their home in Appalachia.
Birding to Change the World by Trish O’Kane is a heartfelt memoir of an “accidental ornithologist.” O’Kane weaves personal stories with scientific knowledge and social justice commentary to chronicle the powerful connections that can be forged from a shared love of birds.
Bite by Bite by Aimee Nezhukumatathil explores the way food and drink evoke our associations and remembrances. It is a lyrical book of short essays about food, offering a banquet of tastes, smells, memories, associations and marvelous curiosities from nature.
Eating from Our Roots: 80+ Healthy Home-Cooked Favorites from Cultures Around the World by Maya Feller offers delicious recipes for folks interested in expanding their healthy meal repertoire.
Houses That Can Save the World by Courtenay Smith and Sean Topham shows how creative thinkers are embracing new challenges in building and design, and readers take a tour of ingenious homes. Along with practical ideas, the dreamy, gorgeous visuals are ideal to serve as a coffee table book.
In Pack Light: A Journey to Find Myself, author Shilletha Curtis traces her Appalachian Trail thru-hike from Georgia to Maine while facing her traumatic upbringing, depression and the fallout from a pandemic.
After a Crohn’s disease diagnosis and years of unsuccessful treatments, Emily Maxson landed upon a solution that brought her back to the kitchen: the Specific Carbohydrate Diet. In Real Food. Every Day., the Medina food blogger features easy-to-follow recipes made with whole food with an emphasis on fiber.
Each of the books in The Forest Feast series by Erin Gleeson is a work of art by itself, combining Gleeson’s photographs and watercolor illustrations. The all-vegetarian recipes are delicious and simple, often using ingredients typically found at home.
From Sharon McMahon comes The Small and the Mighty: Twelve Unsung Americans Who Changed the Course of
“A BOOK IS A DREAM THAT YOU HOLD IN YOUR HAND.”
Neil Gaiman, English author
BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS BY:
• Hailey Almsted, a bibliophile in her own right, serves as managing editor for our community lifestyle magazines and the editor of Maple Grove and Woodbury magazines.
• Madeline Kopeicki, editor of Plymouth Magazine and digital editor, regularly showcases local authors.
• Ashley Christopherson is the owner of Niche Books in Lakeville. Read more at nichebooksmn.com.
• Gabrielle Clark, Sharon Noble and Molly Rivard are librarians, serving the Maple Grove, Long Lake and Wayzata branches of the Hennepin County Library system. Read more at hclib.org.
• Casie Leigh Lukes is a writer, editor and owner of Cocoa & Champagne, creator of custom library curations. Find her on Instagram @cocoaandchampagne.
• Rima Parikh is the owner of Wayzata’s Thinking Spot, which focuses on STEMrelated books and games. Discover more at thethinkingspot.us.
• Raela Schoenherr works in marketing at a publishing company and is a lifelong lover of books and reading.
• Amy Sundet and Katie Timcho are local book reviewers and bloggers. Find them at @overbookedmoms on Instagram.
• Kia White works at Lake Country Booksellers in White Bear Lake, following in the footsteps of her grandmother, shop coowner Nancy Thysell.
History, from the Founding to the Civil Rights Movement. Dubbed America’s government teacher, McMahon is a Minnesota author and host of the podcast The Preamble. This book shares the stories of 12 Americans who left a lasting impact on the country.
In her newest memoir, Where Rivers Part: A Story of My Mother’s Life, Hmong-American author Kao Kalia Yang continues her family’s powerful story from a refugee camp in Thailand to life in America. This is a retelling of her mother’s life—a beautiful and haunting story of the human spirit and extraordinary love.
Written by Renée Stewart-Hester — Photos by Chris Emeott
DONAMAE’S DOUBLE DUTY
Let holiday desserts serve up sweet flavors and stunning table décor.
Does anyone else fall victim to SHDF— seasonal holiday decision fatigue? The questions come tumbling down this time of year like a never-ending blizzard. What to buy, bake or serve; who to gift, invite or visit; where to decorate, dine or travel; when to clean, pantry stock or wrap—it starts landing in the hours after Thanksgiving, and relief doesn’t come until the clock strikes a new year. Let’s alleviate a few of the decisions with the help of Donamae’s Sweet Studio, which offers a full suite of lovely treats to gift or serve. We like the idea of showcasing sweets as part of décor elements, utilizing their colors and textures to create pleasing (and practical) visual interest on any buffet, dining table or serving station. And the opportunities for gift giving know no bounds.
Donamae’s Sweet Studio, founded by Donamae Koppelman, not only offers its original gourmet toffee and chocolate-pecan popcorn, it also features carefully-curated candy trays, brimming with decadent chocolates, one-of-a-kind dipped licorice, hand-dipped dried apricots and even dipped halvah. Caramels, toffees and other sweet bites also make their appearance on the trays. “There’s truly something for everyone,” says Jaclyn Charney, Koppelman’s granddaughter. While the tried-and-true treats are regular features, Donamae’s continues to find new products to share, including creamy fudge, decadent truffle sticks and espresso beans—a huge hit with anyone who loves a sweet coffee fix. “[My grandmother] always believed in keeping things exciting,” Jaclyn says. “It meant so
much to her to constantly bring in new, delicious ideas. She personally tasted and approved each addition, making sure every new treat carried that same joy and charm our customers have always loved.”
Will there be new offerings for the December holidays? “Definitely,” says Nancy Charney, Koppelman’s daughter. “… the holidays are one of the most fun times of the year for us. We love finding the cutest, most festive goodies to bring into the shop.”
To help shoppers curate their gifts for family, friends, hostesses and teachers and as stocking stuffers, the duo says its popcorn is always a go-to, but visiting the storefront can inspire more ideas. “We’ve got everything from adorable peanut butter cups and decorative [chocolate sandwich cookies] to holiday truffle boxes, holiday pretzels, gooey marshmallow treats, adorable gummy bags and personalized cookie jars,” Jaclyn says. Decisions made!
Left: Candy is a sweet highlight at all kinds of celebrations. The Donamae’s Sweet Studio team recommends it for anniversaries, baby namings, bar or bat mitzvahs, birthdays, graduations, showers, weddings or even as a thoughtful alternative to condolence flowers or fruit baskets. “We love sharing Donamae’s sweetness in life’s happiest celebrations and even in its more tender, heartfelt moments,” Nancy Charney says.
Bottom left: The original popcorn recipe was created for Donamae Koppelman, the original owner of Donamae’s Sweet Studio.
Bottom right: Donamae’s Sweet Studio’s website doesn’t highlight all the available items, as it gets new products in all the time, so a visit to the Deephaven shop is the best bet. “Our studio feels like a little winter wonderland during the holidays, all decked out and filled with the cutest new treats and gifts,” says Jaclyn Charney, granddaughter of Donamae Koppelman.
RECIPE FOR SUCCESS
Over 45 years ago, Donamae Koppelman started selling her gourmet popcorn and sweets just for fun, mostly at local fundraisers. What started as a simple hobby out of her St. Louis Park home, quickly gained momentum. “Before long, she was shipping to stockbroker clients out of town who fell in love with the popcorn, and that’s really when things took off,” says Nancy Charney of her mother’s business.
Since those early days, three generations
of the “Donamae Girls,” as they call themselves, have joined the sweet journey. Nancy began working alongside her mother, and when Koppelman decided to spend more time in Florida, Nancy turned up her own passion for the business by opening Donamae’s Sweet Studio in Deephaven in 2007.
Nancy’s daughter, Jaclyn Charney, grew up helping out, and once she graduated from college, she began working full time
in the family business. “It’s always been a family affair, full of love, hard work and pride from the beginning of Donamae teaching us everything,” she says.
“Working with family is truly a blessing for us,” Nancy says. “We’re incredibly close and collaborate wonderfully … we each bring our own unique perspectives and ideas, which only enriches what we create together.” But 2025 brought a significant loss. Koppelman passed away in
Nancy Charney (left) and her daughter, Jaclyn Charney, continue a legacy of smart business built on a solid, innovative foundation, created by their mother and grandmother, respectively.
Top right: Donamae Koppelman stands in front of the candy business’s former storefront. She passed away in May, but she left an indelible mark, guiding Donamae’s into the future.
Bottom right: As the business grew, Donamae Koppelman traveled to Fancy Food Shows in New York City and San Francisco, candy shows and various markets to discover exciting new lines. “She built the most beautiful relationships along the way; people adored her,” her daughter Nancy Charney says. “She had such an incredible eye for finding unique sweets that brought joy … She believed it was so important to keep things fresh and exciting, always bringing in something new.”
May, just shy of her 95th birthday. “She was still very much a part of the business and always knew about every order [and] event,” Jaclyn says.
Koppelman’s family presses forward, keeping her original and ever-evolving vision close at hand, especially during this time of year. “During the holidays, our business truly becomes a heartwarming family affair,” Nancy says. Along with Jaclyn, Nancy’s husband, Jay, and their two sons, J.P. and Todd, step in to assist.
“At Donamae’s, it’s more than just candy; it’s about connection,” Jaclyn says. “It’s truly a joyful business to be in. Whether it’s a birthday, a holiday or just a Tuesday, we want people to feel like they’re part of something sweet and meaningful … We pour so much love into what we do, and we genuinely care about making every customer feel amazing the moment they walk through our doors. People tell us all the time that Donamae’s is such a happy, fun place and knowing the story behind it touches people and makes it even more special. It’s sweet in every sense of the word.”
Donamae’s Sweet Studio donamaes.com
@donamaes_a_sweet_studio
Left:
WINTER WELCOME
Annual community event embraces the season.
The season sparkles and shimmers with special events, and Ridgedale Commons, 12590 Ridgedale Drive, is the place to be from 4:45 to 6 p.m. on December 6 for Minnetonka’s annual Light up the Commons celebration.
Connect with family, friends and the community to welcome winter with a host of activities, including crafts, dancing, food, park lighting and much more family-friendly elements. Organizers remind attendees to dress up their dogs to “sparkle and glow” at this free event.
—Renée Stewart-Hester
All skill levels are welcome at this baking extravaganza at the Minnetonka Community Education Center. Participants are encouraged to bring their own containers to take home their baked goodies (10 dozen treats per family), as well as a recipe booklet. excelsiorlakeminnetonkachamber.com
12.06, 12.13
Santa at the Lodge
Visit Santa at the Excelsior Masonic Lodge from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m., and enjoy tasty hot cocoa and holiday treats. Plus, enjoy a chili dinner with Santa. excelsiorlakeminnetonkachamber.com
12.06
Tree Lighting
The Excelsior community is encouraged to gather at the Excelsior Veterans Memorial to watch the annual holiday tree lighting at 7:15 p.m., complete with music from holiday carolers. excelsiorlakeminnetonkachamber.com
12.15
Pen a Family History Book
This Wayzata Community Education event will teach you how to research and write your family history. Join Rebecca Shamblin for this informative and accessible class at Wayzata Central Middle School. Registration is required. rebeccashamblin.com
12.18
Bingo and Brews
Hosted at Fat Pants Brewing in Eden Prairie, this night of classic fun and craft brews promises prizes and a great opportunity for quality time with friends. excelsiorlakeminnetonkachamber.com
12.27
Polar Bear Plunge
Join the Excelsior community for a courageous plunge in Lake Minnetonka. All funds raised will support the Wounded Warrior Program. mylonglake.com
Compiled by Diane Meyer and Avery Vrieze
To have your event considered: email lakeminnetonkamag@localmedia.co by the 10th of the month three months prior to publication. Please note that some events may have changed since these pages went to print. Please visit affiliated websites for updates.
The Excelsior Fire District Fire Prevention Open House and Safety Fair welcomed community members of all ages. The event featured activities, exhibits and demonstrations. Sparky the Fire Dog greeted guests at the popular annual gathering while firefighters shared their expertise with the public.
To have your event considered: send date, time, location, photos, contact information and a brief description of the event to lakeminnetonkamag@localmedia.co.
Photos: Jim Douglas
Nature’s Double Gift
In the depth of winter, it’s often lovely to receive a reminder of what awaits after the thaw and springtime emerges. And in this time of gift giving, voters in our annual photo contest gifted James Diebel’s Spring Double Rainbow with the Readers’ Choice Award.
“This picture is special to me because I had been getting rained on all day, but the rainbows made the trip worth getting wet,” says the Wayzata resident, who was fishing at the time and often takes photos on various lakes.
“Photography is a hobby of mine that gets me outside and going to new places that I might not have ventured out to if it weren’t for the desire to get that perfect shot,” Diebel says. “I enjoy photography because it gives me a new appreciation for our natural spaces and creatures.” —Renée Stewart-Hester
LENS ON LAKE MINNETONKA
Photographer: James Diebel
Title: Spring Double Rainbow
Equipment: Canon EOS Rebel T5
Location: Crystal Bay, Lake Minnetonka
Category: Readers’ Choice Award: First Place
To view other Lens on Lake Minnetonka photo contest winners, visit lakeminnetonkamag.com.
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Managing Director –Financial Advisor
Senior Portfolio Director Group (952) 476-3725 | thomas.pink@rbc.com
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