Issuu

A Re f ug e for Life

Stillwater Area High School sweethearts celebrate their nuptials and a decade of love

CONTENTS 10 The Perfect Setting A Hudson jeweler shares her expertise in designing custom engagement rings.

12 Parent Primer Preparation is key when it comes to marking a child’s marriage milestone.

14 Heart of a Lyons Elegant details and a focus on the guest experience define a couple’s hometown wedding.

20 A Refuge for Life Stillwater Area High School sweethearts celebrate their nuptials and a decade of love.

30 Raising the Bar Elevate your events with drinks on tap and signature cocktails. Editor’s Letter Noteworthy On the Town Last Glance

Photo: Tonya Hjort Photography

4 8 36 40

Heart of a Lyons, page 14

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www.myhradesign.com

(651) 248-8273

F R O M T H E E D I TO R

I’ve always been drawn to my family history. From a young age, I spent hours of family gatherings holed up in closets with albums and boxes of letters and images. Flipping through the pages, holding scallop-edged photographs and turning to the back to memorize the names of my ancestors, sparked an interest in documentation. I find myself doing that very work today, through both writing and photography. Weddings are one of my favorite places to be with my camera—rivaled only by the process of creating this weddings issue of St. Croix Valley Magazine, of course! This issue is centered on two love stories. On page 14, western Wisconsin natives Caitlyn and Dalton Lyons tie the knot at La Pointe Events. It’s a celebration filled with fun, guest-driven details, from personal mini cakes for each guest to an Espresso Martini ice luge. And on page 20, we speak with a pair of Stillwater lovebirds about their golf course wedding day, planned to perfection by the bride herself. On page 10, writer Jennifer Pitterle connected with Kristen Iburg Meyer, the owner of The Jeweler’s Bench (and designer of the Lyonses’ rings), to learn more about what’s trending in engagement ring design. Iburg Meyer shares insight into ring stacks—narrow bands that allow the wearer to add rings for important milestones after the wedding, including anniversaries and vow renewals. There are infinite ways to celebrate love. While weddings are an important milestone, the building of life and love through the years is just as beautiful. For folks who are looking ahead to their children’s weddings, don’t miss managing creative director Renée Stewart-Hester’s dive into wedding prep for parents on page 12. It’s a go-to guide we hope you return to when the time comes.

Zo e Ya te s zoe@localmedia.co

Best of St. Croix Valley We moved! Welcome, Readers, to the annual Best of St. Croix Valley readers’ choice poll’s new February home! While the voting month has changed, we continue to celebrate life in and around your community. And isn’t the month of love the best way to show support and appreciation for local businesses, service providers and much more? Our contest is live now the entire month of February at stcroixvalleymag.com, where you can vote for your “best of the best” in a number of categories. Many of your favorite selections return for another year, and our Editorial Team has included a few more categories, including our special wedding section. Now’s your chance! We’ll meet you at stcroixvalleymag.com where you’ll find additional voting details and view our updated, voter-friendly ballot.

On th e Cove r: Morgan and Ryan Gruber, page 20 Ph oto by : Tayler Dumas Photography

Photo: Chris Emeott

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Your Cozy New Home Is Waiting! At Saint Therese of Woodbury: Where Independent Living Meets Everyday Luxury As snow blankets the ground and winter settles in, there’s no better time to embrace the warmth, comfort, and peace of mind that come with independent living at Saint Therese of Woodbury. Nestled in one of Minnesota’s most vibrant communities, our campus is a welcoming retreat where seniors can enjoy the beauty of winter without the burden of home maintenance. Step outside your door and into a vibrant community offering: • A warm saltwater pool and fitness center • On-site bistro, library and Club Room • Chapel and spiritual support • Salon, barber shop and boutique • Serene gardens and a therapeutic labyrinth If your health needs change, a full continuum of care is available within the same familiar campus. Come see why Saint Therese of Woodbury has been a trusted choice for nearly 10 years.

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VOL. 10 NO. 6 February/March 2026

PUBLISHER Susan Isay EDITOR Zoe Yates 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, Jennifer Pitterle, Alexandra Tostrud and Paige Udermann CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Sarah Eral, Angie Hong, Rachael Perron, Lori Schaefer and Ben Thietje DIGITAL INTERN Claire Krieger EDITORIAL INTERNS Diane Meyer and Avery Vrieze EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD Nathan Hall, Hall Family Foundation; Heather Logelin, St. Croix Valley Foundation; Rosetta Peters, Brookside Bar & Grill; Kristin Rohman Rehkamp, La Vie Est Belle; and Margie Schmid, Sprout Nutrition and Coaching 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 and Sara Johnson ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Rochita Chatterjee and Gina Neumann

PRESIDENT Pete Burgeson To subscribe to St. Croix Valley Magazine, please visit localmedia.co. For customer service inquiries, please contact hello@localmedia.co, or call 612.208.6248. ©Local LLC 2026. All rights reserved.

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N OT E WO RT H Y

Celebrating 10 Years For Meg (née Archambeau) and Nick Williams, life and love are entwined with the St. Croix Valley. Each year on their anniversary, the couple makes time to set goals. The cherished ritual (often followed by a romantic dinner) has helped the pair stay balanced in all facets of their life. The two met in 2014, when Nick stopped by his brother’s home for a visit. Meg was the roommate. They immediately bonded over a shared sense of humor, and Nick proposed to Meg at the Lowell Park Gazebo with the help of family and friends. Nearly a decade on from their 2016 nuptials, the pair lives in West Lakeland Township with their children, Fiona, 9, Jack, 7, Hank, 4, and Louie, 2. Nick is the owner and founder of W3 Construction, and Meg is a sales lead at Atlassian. The Williams family often spends Sundays exploring local parks (Pioneer Park is a favorite), and they are regulars at Twin Point Tavern’s happy hour. “You’re always learning,” Meg says. “Four kids is wild, and it’s very much a partnership.” —Zoe Yates

The Matchmaker: When the weddings are too thrilling!

When nasty rumors about Nura start cropping up and client relationships fall through, it may not be that the matchmaker has lost her touch; it may be intentional, and it may be deadly. This wedding romp is Saeed’s debut adult novel, and I look forward to reading whatever she writes next!

Photo: Deb Paquay Photography

Part mystery, part romance, The Matchmaker by Aisha Saeed is a thrilling ride that never slows down. It’s a classic conundrum: The person with a knack for pairing lovebirds doesn’t have a partner of their own. Nura Khan has been in love with bestie Azar for years, but she’s too afraid to reveal her feelings. Nura is also the wildly successful owner of Piyar, a high-end matchmaking company with a flawless track record. Business is flourishing, even if Nura’s love life isn’t.

Sarah Eral is a library assistant at Hudson Area Public Library. To learn more about library programs and services, visit hudsonpubliclibrary.org.

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MORE THAN Be Prepared for Wedding Day Emergencies Accidental spills, dress snags, lipstick smudges, unwanted headaches—the list of potential wedding emergencies goes on. That’s why an emergency kit is the frosting on the (wedding) cake. Consider it a Mary Poppins bag filled with items needed for any type of accident or emergency. Here are a few items to get started. —Hailey Almsted Necessities » Bobby pins » Breath mints » Cotton rounds or swabs » Deodorant » Dry shampoo » Eyelash glue » Fashion tape » First-aid kit (including bandages and blister balm) » Floss » Hairspray » Hair ties » Jewelry cleaner » Lotion » Lint roller » Makeup wipes » Medications (including allergy medicine, antacids and pain relievers) » Menstrual products » Mini sewing kit » Nail clippers » Nail glue » Oil blotting sheets » Portable phone charger » Safety pins » Scissors » Stain remover stick » Static guard » Sunscreen » Super glue » Tweezers

(651) 439-8840 stillwaterbeautifulsmiles.com 1701 Curve Crest Blvd. Suite 100 Stillwater, MN 55082

The Perfect Setting A Hudson jeweler shares her expertise in designing custom engagement rings.

Before the bustle of wedding planning begins, there’s another big decision facing many couples: choosing an engagement ring. In the St. Croix Valley, jeweler Kristen Iburg Meyer has been helping couples design and select those heirloom pieces for more than a decade. “Prior to opening up my brick-and-mortar shop, I was more of a private jeweler, creating work for different galleries, doing custom work and doing different shows,” says Iburg Meyer, who lives in Lakeland. While her two sons were young, she waited for the right moment to put down roots in a studio of her own. When a longtime Hudson, Wisconsin, jeweler retired, the timing—and the location—fell perfectly into place. The Jeweler’s Bench officially opened on Locust Street in downtown Hudson in March 2024. Iburg Meyer’s background in fine arts is 10

the foundation of her craft. She graduated from Iowa State University with a bachelor’s degree in design, with a focus on metals and jewelry design. After college, she worked for a family-owned jewelry store in Iowa before moving to Minnesota in 1997. Custom engagement rings are one of her specialties, and Iburg Meyer tailors the process to each couple. “We talk about the design, the stone shape that they’re drawn to, and build around that,” she says. After a consultation, she creates a wax model or computer-aided design rendering of the initial ring design to show the couple. What’s trending for rings? Iburg Meyer says the current “trend” is couples prioritizing their own preferences rather than following the crowd. Rose, white and yellow gold are all popular for bands. For stones, “The

round, brilliant cut diamond will always be a classic,” she says. “But I’m seeing more elongated stones—radiant cuts, ovals and pear cuts. Solitaires are very popular.” She’s also seeing an interest in ring stacks, designs with narrow bands that can be added for each occasion: engagement ring, wedding band, first anniversary and so on. Ethical stone sourcing is increasingly important in the industry. More clients are choosing lab-grown diamonds or lab-grown moissanite, a gemstone similar in appearance and durability to diamonds. “I’ve also been having a lot of individuals coming in with family diamonds that have been passed down to them,” Iburg Meyer says. She sources popular Montana sapphires from United States-based cutters who uphold ethical mining standards. stcroixvalleymag.com

Photos: Chris Emeott

By Jennifer Pitterle

Left: Kristen Iburg Meyer often works with yellow gold in her custom engagement ring designs. This radiant cut diamont solitaire ring and wedding band with round bezel-set diamonds highlights the distinctive material. Right: Ethical stone sourcing is important at The Jeweler's Bench, and this engagement ring, featuring a teal blue Montana sapphire with two round, brilliant-cut diamonds, is no exception.

Her advice for soon-to-be-engaged couples? Look at some photos to get an idea of what you’d like for your ring—and don’t forget the practicalities of caring for everyday jewelry. “If you’re going to do rock climbing or weightlifting, put on a different silicone band to prolong the life of your ring,” Iburg Meyer says. “I also steer people away from softer stones that won’t hold up to scratches.” While she loves traditional diamond rings, it’s the distinctive projects that stay with her, like a recent ring she designed in white gold with a rustic gray diamond. “It had some really pretty rose-cut faceting, and it stood out,” Iburg Meyer says. The Jeweler’s Bench jewelersbenchhudson.com The Jeweler’s Bench Hudson

Parent Primer Preparation is key when it comes to marking a child’s marriage milestone.

The Wedding. While we all know who the stars of this show are, there are some supporting characters who also have to-do lists and reams of reminders before the main event. Enter: The Parents. If there was ever a delta in the bookstore aisle, it might be for What to Expect When Your Child is Expecting … to Get Married. While there are variations in involvement levels and expectations, there are some basic elements that either side of the parent aisle should consider. 12

Establish each side’s financial obligations early on. Will the couple shoulder all or part of the costs, or will both sets of parents pitch in for the wedding? Do plans go the “traditional” route with the groom’s parents footing the floral and rehearsal dinner bill, for example? Talk. Now. It can alleviate confusion and potential choppy feelings later. Speaking of communication, discuss whether parents will be listed on the invitations.

» »

Be sure that all sides, including the couple, have a clear idea about the number of guests allotted per family on the invite list. Are there important cultural, familial or religious traditions that families would like included in the day’s events? If the wedding is out of town, there can be a lot to remember while packing. If possible when flying, use carry-on luggage for important items—jewelry, rehearsal and wedding outfits and the like. stcroixvalleymag.com

iStock.com/LumiNola

By Renée Stewart-Hester

Pack “just in case” medications (for allergies, anxiety, intestinal issues, etc. You get the picture.) No one wants to dash to the pharmacy or make late-night calls to a doctor. Photographers appreciate lists of musthave family photos ahead of time. Be clear about how many photos all sides can request and when. Be sure potential conflicts or concerns are addressed well before the wedding begins. Is there a guest who might require some “extra attention?” Assign a trusted family member (outside the immediate family) or friend to assist in getting that person from Point A to Point B or monitor any troublesome situations—health-related or otherwise. If beloved family members or friends can’t attend, consider livestreaming the ceremony, so they feel included, and you can feel their presence. If parent speeches are part of the groom’s dinner or reception program, when will they occur? Traditions are shifting on this one, so get that clarified. Comfort is key. Nowhere does it say that mothers can’t have an outfit change for the reception. After the primary photos are complete, why not slip into something more … breathable and less confining? (Bring extra undergarments, and ditch the shapewear at this point. Be sure to run the second look by the couple.) Wearing meaningful jewelry can be a wonderful way to make the day even more memorable. Parents, if you wear a family heirloom or one of your special pieces to any of the wedding events (engagement party, shower, rehearsal, ceremony or reception), make note of that. Someday, gift the bride, groom or grandchild with the piece and a note reminding them of the jewelry’s special history.

Once the day arrives—and it will!—embrace the joy, and don’t concern yourself with minor hiccups. Unless it’s downright catastrophic, guests rarely notice tiny missteps. Parents, you don’t get this day back, so delight in knowing that you’ve played an important part in helping your child reach this milestone—and you’ve reached one too! Enter: The In-Laws. 13

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H E A RT O F A LYO N S

Elegant details and a focus on the guest experience define a couple’s hometown wedding. W R I T T E N BY ZO E YAT E S — P H OTO S BY TO N YA H J O R T P H OTO G R A P H Y

Western Wisconsin is a special place to Caitlyn (née Cody) and Dalton Lyons. Born-andraised St. Croix County residents (Caitlyn is from Baldwin; Dalton is from Somerset.), the pair met through mutual friends at a local softball game. An immediate, organic connection formed, and Dalton proposed while on a four-wheeler ride near the family cabin. Under a canopy of green on the winding River Road north of St. Croix Falls, Dalton pulled over and got down on one knee. From the start, the pair knew they wanted to keep their nuptials close to home. As soon as they toured La Pointe Events in Somerset, owned by their family friends Brock and Liz Montpetit, the Lyonses were smitten. With a strong vision for their timeless black-tie nuptials, Caitlyn thought the venue’s modern structures and natural beauty would be stcroixvalleymag.com

an ideal backdrop for their day. On May 17, 2025, the pair tied the knot on the bank of the Apple River, surrounded by their 195 guests. Both Caitlyn and Dalton walked down the aisle in white. Caitlyn donned a satin cowl neck gown by Le Blanc; Dalton, inspired by his father’s wedding attire, wore a white tuxedo jacket with a black lapel. The wedding party stood alongside them in all black. Guest experience was a top priority for the Lyonses, and they added fun, custom elements to their day. The cocktail hour, immediately following the ceremony, was a focus for the couple. “I think that [cocktail hour] can kind of make or break the guest experience,” Caitlyn says. The newlyweds were able to receive all of their guests individually following the ceremony, “then also get a

Left: The Lyonses kept it local with their choice in ring designer. Caitlyn’s ring set, pictured here, was custom made at The Jeweler’s Bench in Hudson, Wisconsin. (Learn more about The Jeweler’s Bench on page 10.) Above: The ceremony took place on the lush lawn at La Pointe Events in Somerset, Wisconsin, overlooking a bend in the Apple River.

cocktail, be able to eat and then roam around and socialize,” she says. Appetizers of Italian Tortellini Skewers and Spinach Artichoke Cups were served to the guests, who chatted and mingled while the rich timbre of a live violin swept softly through the venue. As guests filtered into the reception space and took their seats, they were treated to personal Chocolate Fudge Mini Cakes at their place settings featuring vanilla frosting and decorative black bows to complement the couple’s two-tier red velvet cutting cake. When the wedding party joined the reception, they introduced a distinctive element that celebrated the Lyons’ love for Espresso Martinis—a monogrammed ice luge by Minnesota Ice. For the rest of the night, guests could enjoy Espresso Martinis prepared by La Point’s bartenders, then chilled and poured into a glass via ice luge. Caitlyn joined Dalton on the checkered dance floor for their first dance as newlyweds in her second gown, another satin La 16

Blanc dress with a halter neck and a cascading ribbon down the back. As Dalton lifted Caitlyn into the air for a spin, planner Kenzie Heckmann cued the sparklers, delighting the guests. “The lift wasn’t planned. That was just kind of like a spurof-the-moment thing,” Caitlyn says. The Lyonses also decided on a unique alternative to a guest book: playing cards. Guests were encouraged to select and sign a playing card of their choice; the couple will be able to use and enjoy this special deck for years to come. “Dalton and his family love to play cards, and so we just kind of thought it was fitting,” Caitlin says. Even the late-night details were planned to perfection, with a custom Lyons sign from Alpha-Lit Marquee Letters and pizzas served with custom boxes. “The day as a whole couldn’t have come together any better,” Dalton says. Giving kudos to the event’s vendors, Caitlin adds, “Everybody coming together to make the day what it was, it was just amazing.”

Left: Caitlyn and Dalton Lyons knew they wanted to incorporate their favorite cocktail into their wedding reception. This Espresso Martini luge by Minnesota Ice proved a memorable addition to the day. Right: Complete with black bows and detailed piping, the red velvet cutting cake by Hey There Cupcake mirrored the personalized mini cakes that adorned each guest’s place setting. Page 17: The Lyonses wanted to enjoy each element of their day to the fullest and credit their coordinator, Kenzie Heckmann, and other vendors for making that possible.

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Top: In lieu of a traditional guestbook, the Lyonses opted to have guests sign individual playing cards. These notes and names will be a part of game nights for years to come. Bottom: Marquee letters lit up the night at the Lyonses’ reception, pairing beautifully with the venue’s twinkle-light-laden trees.

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A Refuge for Life Stillwater Area High School sweethearts celebrate their nuptials and a decade of love. Written by Zoe Yates — Photos by Tayler Dumas Photography

When Morgan (née Huenink) and Ryan Gruber tied the knot on a cloudy June day, it was the pinnacle of a love story nearly a decade in the making. The Stillwater Area High School sweethearts connected on social media during their sophomore year in 2015 when Ryan commented on one of Morgan’s social media photos. “It was before DMs were even a thing … He ended up asking me to be his date to the Snowball Dance, and the rest is history,” Morgan says. Though the couple originally hoped to find a barn venue for their summer nuptials, they fell in love with the picturesque setting of The Refuge Golf Club in Oak Grove. “[The Refuge] has such a rustic, elegant vibe to it. So, it still gave us that barn, kind of rustic feeling that we were both interested in,” Morgan says, adding that playing golf is one of the couple’s favorite summer hobbies. From the start, Morgan knew she wanted to plan the wedding and dove into all the details, brainstorming decor, designing the invitations and researching vendors. “I would do it all over again,” she says of the planning process. “I loved it.” The decor centered around flowers and pearl details, with a color palette of cream, sage and soft pink that complemented the club’s sprawling golf green and rustic interior. Morgan found her sheath-style gown at Raffiné Bridal in Woodbury—the shop where she, serendipitously, purchased both of her high school prom dresses. It was complemented by custom pearl jewelry that was handmade by a family friend, Rupa Kilaparti. Kilaparti crafted a set of pearl drop earrings for Morgan and a necklace to match; the bridesmaids and mothers wore similar pieces, also made by Kilaparti. stcroixvalleymag.com

Left: The couple captured portraits on the golf green at The Refuge Golf Club. Morgan Gruber donned a sheath-style gown from Raffiné Bridal; Ryan Gruber selected a suit from Milbern Clothing Co. Right: Morgan designed the invitations herself, complementing custom and heirloom details.

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Left: The newlyweds tied the knot nearly a decade into their love story, after meeting as students at Stillwater Area High School. Right: Morgan and Ryan Gruber chose The Refuge Golf Club for its rustic setting and fell in love with the warm feeling of the indoor reception space. The venue also mangaged the catering, which received rave reviews from the Grubers’ friends and family.

The couple exchanged vows under a beautiful outdoor pergola, surrounded by lush greenery and 190 of their favorite people. Following the cocktail hour, guests were treated to a plated meal catered by The Refuge. The main course included OvenRoasted Chicken or Chardonnay Dill-Glazed Salmon, served with roasted carrots and potatoes. For dessert, Ryan selected Nothing Bundt Cakes, and the dessert table featured mini bundt cakes in an array of flavors. For the toasts, Morgan’s father wrote a poem that tugged on the heartstrings of many of the guests. “He had the idea to turn his speech into a poem, rhyming and everything, and he had the whole room just bawling their eyes out,” Morgan says. “It was the most special thing ever.” The couple agrees that their favorite part of the day, aside from getting married, was celebrating on the dance floor with their nearest and dearest. “Both of us just looked around and saw all of our friends and family with the biggest smiles on their faces, dancing their hearts out and having the best time ever,” Morgan says. “It just warmed my heart and made me feel so, so happy.” stcroixvalleymag.com

Vendors Catering and Venue: The Refuge Golf Club, refugegolfclub.com Desserts: Nothing Bundt Cakes, nothingbundtcakes.com Event Coordinator: Lisa Morin, The Refuge Golf Club, refugegolfclub.com Florals: June & Jane Flower Co., juneandjaneflower.com Hair: W. Bass Bridal, wbassbridal.com Jewelry: Rupa Kilaparti Makeup: Glow With Dej, glowwithdej.com Photography: Tayler Dumas, taylerdumasphotography.com Printing: Designed by Morgan Gruber. Printed through Shutterfly, shutterfly.com Wedding Wear: Azazie, azazie.com; Milbern Clothing Co., milbern.com; Raffiné Bridal, raffinebridal.com

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WEDDING COLLECTION

Lake Elmo Inn Catering provides awardwinning catering across the Twin Cities and beyond for weddings, corporate events and private gatherings. With exceptional cuisine, personalized service and refined presentation, our experienced team brings the trusted hospitality of Lake Elmo Inn to every event. 3712 Layton Ave. N., Lake Elmo 651.779.5994 lakeelmoinncatering.com @lakeelmoinncatering.com

At The Jeweler’s Bench, we create artisan jewelry for life’s most meaningful moments. From delicate to statement designs, our ethically sourced gemstones and expert craftsmanship ensure timeless pieces that tell your love story—perfect for engagements, weddings and cherished gifts you’ll treasure forever.

216 Locust St., Hudson, Wisconsin 715.961.0302 jewelersbenchhudson.com @thejewelersbenchhudson

Create your dream wedding with a thoughtfully elegant country club experience at Dellwood Country Club. Beyond a standard venue, we provide exceptional service and curated amenities. Our casually elegant clubhouse is just 20 minutes from Minneapolis and St. Paul, and we warmly welcome outside events—no membership needed to celebrate with us.

29 Highway 96 E, Dellwood 651.426.3218 dellwoodcountryclub.com/weddings @dellwoodccweddings

The Confluence Hotel offers a scenic Mississippi River backdrop, historic charm and indoor and outdoor spaces for up to 300 guests. Featuring on-site lodging, premium amenities and expert coordination, making it an ideal venue for the entire wedding weekend. 200 Second St. W., Hastings 651.432.0202 confluencehotel.com @theconfluencehotelmn

The Barns of Lost Creek blends rustic charm and modern comfort. Just 30 minutes from the Twin Cities, our venue is close enough for convenience, far enough for magic. W6124 County Road N, Beldenville, Wisconsin 612.296.5876 lostcreekbarns.com @lostcreekbarnswi

The Aisling is a premier wedding venue, offering a sophisticated blend of breathtaking natural views, modern comfort and timeless elegance. Designed to provide a seamless and luxurious wedding experience, The Aisling accommodates celebrations of all sizes with elevated service and exceptional amenities. 295 Lindsay Road, Hudson, Wisconsin 715.961.0302 theaisling.com @the.aisling

VENDOR GALLERY

ASK THE EXPERT Would you like to advertise your brand in St. Croix Valley Magazine’s 2027 Wedding Collection? Please contact hello@localmedia.co.

KRISTEN IBURG-MEYER Owner, Designer and Goldsmith The Jeweler’s Bench

With being in the jewelry industry since 1995, I have seen several trends over the years. The engagement ring consultation is a pretty special process; we ask several questions to help guide our clients during the selection of a stone to the ring design. We want our clients to know that we have high ethical standards of the sourcing of our stones and metals. Currently trending is the warm tone of yellow gold in a solitaire design to bold, chunky bezel settings along with adding a unique twist by setting an elongated stone east and west is currently trending. Lab Grown diamonds, particular the 2ct in either the classic round brilliant cut to elongated cuts such as the oval, marquise or antique cushion cuts. Repurposing a family heirloom mined diamond has been frequently requested which is extra special. The engagement ring is a personal expression, makes a statement, it symbolizes a special bond between partners, there are no rules when it comes to individuality.

jewelersbenchhudson.com @thejewelersbenchhudson

Elevate your events with drinks on tap and signature cocktails.

Photo: Chris Emeott

Written by Hailey Almsted and Zoe Yates

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The vows have been exchanged, the kiss has sealed the marriage—and now it’s time to celebrate in style. Add a memorable touch to your cocktail hour and reception with a mobile bar that brings charm to the big day. Whether it’s a vintage camper or a chic tap trailer, these bars add an unforgettable (and Instagrammable!) twist to wedding festivities. From the bartenders and staff to its three mobile bars, Lakeland-based Give Us A Shot Bartending offers several concepts. Serve four on-tap alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages with the 4 Tap Mobile Bar. (No bartender or electricity required.) Enjoy a pre- or post-ceremony drink with the Champagne Cart. The fun continues with the Tap Cart, a compact cart on wheels that has all the basics. Plus, equipment rentals (and all concepts as mentioned earlier) are available via its sister business, Bars and Bubbly. giveusashot.com and barsandbubbly.com For a one-of-a-kind mobile bar that is sure to create a buzz, Tap Truck St. Croix brings creative flair to the Valley in the form of a 1959 classic Ford F100 panel truck. The modified vintage vehicle, dubbed “Lita” after rock musician Lita Ford, features five customizable taps that dispense an array of beverages, from craft beers and Champagne to signature cocktails and nonalcoholic options. Service comes with two bartenders, owners Kalli and

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on elegant flavors, Ehlenz suggests a Toronto, a cocktail similar to an Old Fashioned, fea-

Joe Ehlenz is the name behind your favorite Valley cocktail menus. An industry-lead-

turing rye whisky, Fernet-Branca, angostura bitters and maple syrup.

ing bar director, Ehlenz is co-owner of the Lolo Restaurant Group, where he manages the bar at area staples like LoLo American Kitchen + Craft Bar and Stillwater Proper. Last autumn, he launched Proper Bartender, a line of distinct bitters made by bartenders for bartenders. We connected with Ehlenz to get his take on signature cocktails for weddings in all seasons. “Make it your own,” Ehlenz says. “Whatever you like to drink is what should definitely be on the menu. You should never worry about satisfying every guest.” For an elegant winter black tie celebration, Ehlenz suggests a variation on an Aperol Spritz. The recognizable, bright beverage is photogenic and lends itself to distinctive flavors and garnishes. It’s also light in alcohol and brings more volume as it’s served with ice, making it a great option for a celebration that is more buzzy than boozy. For a different take

For vibrant spring nuptials, Ehlenz suggests embracing color with an infused spirit, like Obbink Distilling’s Aurora Waters, a butterfly pea flower-infused gin with a purple hue. “It will change with a bit of color as you add acid,” Ehlenz says. Or, go green with ingredients like apple, celery or cucumber. Grapefruit juice is another standout choice for spring, Ehlenz says. Combine with vodka or gin—or choose tequila for a riff on a Paloma. A summer garden party for Ehlenz wouldn’t be complete without 45th Parallel Distillery’s Dill Aquavit. He often pairs it with Italian red bitters and grapefruit juice, topped with sparkling soda and lemon. Or, bring a hint of floral to the festivities with Diega Citrus Mexican Gin, a spirit infused with lemon verbena and chamomile. Add some Italian limonato soda, and garnish with thyme for a lively option that screams summer. “As simple as it is, there’s nothing more refreshing when it’s hot out than

a gin and tonic,” Ehlenz says. For a rustic autumn wedding, Ehlenz focuses on distinct flavors. His top recommendation, a Blueberry Whiskey Smash, features a deep violet hue and impressive flavor. “This is the time that a tiki cocktail could work too,” Ehlenz says. Or, consider a cocktail that brings in notes of cherry or perhaps something distinctive like Amaro Montenegro or Nocino Walnut Liqueur. “Start looking for some unique ingredients to build your cocktails around,” Ehlenz says.

WH AT AB O UT MO CKTAILS? “There’s a lot of great nonalcoholic canned options out there. Lift Bridge [Brewing] does a great amount. There’s a company out in New York called St. Agrestis, which does a Phony Negroni. You should buy some, taste some, try them out, and see what works and what you like,” Ehlenz says. “Simple is probably your best bet. A really fun lavender lemonade can go a long way; the kids can still enjoy it, but then you can also add it to somebody’s vodka, and it serves two purposes.”

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Photo: The Tipsi ’Tini Events

AN EXP E RT ’ S TA K E O N SIG NAT URE COC KTA I L S

The Tapper Trailer, a mobile bar by Tipsi ’Tini Events, has a modern look and is run off of ice, so it doesn’t require any electrical hookup.

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Dale Bukowski, who can pour drinks alongside the Tap Truck. taptruckstcroix.com The Tipsi ’Tini Events brings a luxury take to the mobile bar concept in Minnesota and Wisconsin. The Lindstrom-based company’s Tapper Trailer is a self-serve solution for private events, offering four customizable taps. The trailer achieves a modern, elevated look with pine boards and black hardware with a stunning marble hexagonal backsplash. The trailer doesn’t require any electrical hookup or generator; it’s run off of ice. Clients have the option to add a bartender to their package to mix drinks for guests. thetipsytini.com Wanderlust MN Mobile Bar was created by North St. Paul resident Candice Mich. The business specializes in custom cocktail menus, nonalcoholic options, signature cocktails and more.“What I love most about Wanderlust is the ability to be personable with clients,” Mich says. “I take the time to get to know who [clients] are and what they like, so I can customize their menu … every event becomes an opportunity to create something unique and memorable.” wanderlustmnmobilebar.com

Area mobile bars operate as a dry-hire service in compliance with Minnesota and Wisconsin state liquor laws that require a business to operate in a brick-and-mortar to obtain a liquor license. This means that clients or event hosts are responsible for supplying and purchasing any alcoholic products, while mobile bars can provide a range of bartending services, as well as bar set-ups, garnishes, mocktails and mixers.

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The Summer

Camp Guide

Ahh, the idyllic days of a childhood summer— meant to savor and relish as summer can quickly fold into fall and the return of school days and the obligations (assignments!) that come with them. While the freedom from schedules certainly has its place, it is just as important to keep kids academically, creatively, physically and socially engaged throughout the summertime. The National Research Council and Institute of Medicine (2002) found that “exposure to positive experiences, settings and people, as well as opportunities to gain and refine life skills, supports young people in the acquisition and growth of [their] assets,” and summer can be a prime time for children to have these experiences, according to Elizabeth Fogarty, assistant professor with the University of St. Thomas School of Education. Summer camps play a key role in fortifying those experiences and exposing children to new opportunities not typically found in a classroom. “Campers can try new activities and discover that they really enjoy them,” Fogarty says. Participation can also help children learn how to make and build friendships, an important skill that can last a lifetime. “Summer camps provide campers with opportunities to interact with kids who are not in their schools or usual social circles,” she says. “These new friends can provide encouragement to try something new or step outside one’s comfort zone.” There are plenty of opportunities around the Metro to try new experiences and fine-tune current interests. Saint Thomas Academy has a wide range of camps, including athletics (basketball, fishing, hockey, soccer and more), specialized academics and college prep for kids in grades three through 12. Campers receive hands-on learning through STEM programs, including Engineering Fun, LEGO Stop Motion and Robotics. Visitation School offers fun-filled, academically enriched camps for kids in preschool through 12th grade with half- and full-day options. The program provides a friendly, relaxed and supportive environment for creativity, enrichment and learning. Offerings span a wide range of interests, including arts, athletics, cooking, science, sewing, STEM and many more hands-on experiences. The importance of downtime shouldn’t be understated and is an essential consideration for families when planning how to spend the summer months. Striking a balance between scheduled camps or programs and nonscheduled time can be a challenge. “Relaxed summer schedules often provide respite from busier school days,” Fogarty says. “An extended lack of structured time, however, can create restlessness for kids and caregivers alike. Camps and summer programs not only provide childcare options for working families, but they provide opportunities for summer enrichment.” —Renée Stewart-Hester

Premier summer camps for Pre-K through Grade 12 girls and boys, offering academics, arts, athletics and more at Saint Thomas Academy and Visitation School. Build skills and confidence, and have fun! cadets.com/summer and visitation.net/summer Saint Thomas Academy @allthingssta Visitation School @visitationschoolmn

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Chocolate Cravings An annual River Falls event promotes small businesses in the heart of winter.

River Falls, Wisconsin, is thriving—and much of that success is due to the efforts of area businesses and organizations that collaborate on events to draw customers into the city’s bustling core. It’s about community over competition, a quality that Mei Mei Abdouch, cofounder and board president of River Falls Business Leaders and owner of Mei Mei’s Cookies & Creamery, says is what makes the area’s small business community so special. “We really want everyone to thrive,” she says. One mid-winter event has found its way into the hearts of many through a beloved February treat—chocolate. The River Falls Chocolate Crawl will return for a sixth year from noon to 4 p.m on February 7 with more than 30 businesses throughout town offering specials and hosting free samples from area chocolatiers White Pine Berry Farm and 3 Schweet Sisters. “Each location has a different chocolate or fudge. Nothing is duplicated,” Abdouch says. The event seeks to draw customers at a time of year that can be difficult for local businesses, Abdouch says. And there’s nothing like the lure of chocolate to bring people out of hibernation. Information and updates can be found on the River Falls Business Leaders Facebook page. —Zoe Yates

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O N T H E TOW N

02.06–02.08

03.07

Hudson Hot Air Affair

Midwinter Fun

The mass ascension of more than 30 balloons will take place at 7:35 a.m. View this spectacular festival in the sky from the launch field at E.P. Rock Elementary School or from any park or open space in the Hudson area. business.hudsonwi.org

Bundle up and enjoy outdoor activities, including bonfires, hiking, stargazing with the Minnesota Stargazing Association and s’mores from 5 to 7 p.m at the Belwin Conservancy. belwin.org

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Dance Showcase

Winterfest Opening Ceremony

one23events.com

The talented young dancers of Center Stage will perform an energetic blend of dance styles in the Black Box Theatre at the Phipps Center for the Arts in Hudson, Wisconsin. Showtimes vary, and tickets are available for purchase at the box office. thephipps.org

02.21

03.08

Kids and Family Fair

Spring Orchestral Concert

Families are invited to Stillwater from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Loft 214 to enjoy free Winterfest activities, including face painting and a coloring contest. one23events.com

Support the River Valley Community Orchestra as it performs classic music at 2 p.m. at Hastings High School. hastingsprescottarts.org

Help kick off Winterfest, a festival celebrating all things Stillwater, from 4 to 7 p.m. at JX Venue. Watch the fireworks at 7 p.m., and stick around for live music from 8:30 p.m. until midnight.

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03.07–03.15 02.20

Midwinter Fun

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03.22

Gentle Yoga Relax and unwind at this beginner yoga flow class at 11 a.m. at the picturesque Rustic Roots Winery in Scandia. Tickets are $15. rusticroots.wine

S TAY CO N N EC T E D A N D C E L E B R AT E S T. C R O IX VA L L E Y @ S TC R O IX VA L L E Y M AG showcase local people, places and events. Compiled by Diane Meyer and Avery Vrieze To have your event considered: email stcroixvalleymag@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.

LAST GLANCE

Love on the Lake Samantha Burke, an elopement photographer from New Richmond, Wisconsin, captures love stories year-round. Last February, she joined Duncan Pierce and Gentina Patton for an intimate elopement at The Backwater on the Bay, a lake home rental in Amery, Wisconsin. The day included a ceremony by the fireplace, lunch with their two kids, a game of cribbage and pictures on a frozen lake. For this image, the trio had to move fast, as the temperature outside was nearly -20 F. “I love their laughter in this photo and just the pure happiness that shines through here!” Burke says. “Despite it being negative temperatures outside, they still got to have a blast and make the most of it.” —Zoe Yates

L EN S O N ST. C R O I X VA L L E Y Photographer: Samantha Burke Title: Bride & Groom Embrace Negative Temps on a Frozen Lake Equipment: Canon R6 with an RF 28–70mm f/2.0 lens Category: People Award: Third Place To view other Lens on St. Croix Valley photo contest winners, visit stcroixvalleymag.com.

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St. Croix Valley - February 2026