A refreshed look gives a Woodbury home a new personality
COOKIE CUTTER TO CHARACTER
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HOMES issue the
APRIL 2025
“As a society, we have again embraced all that color and pattern can add to our lives. Not only as beauty in our surroundings, but also by way of psychologically adding internal pleasure and happiness from the effect it has on the brain.” —Sarah Olsen, Merriment owner and principal designer (page 24)
Happier
An area designer looks at
the community.
A unique biking program pedals on at Saint Therese.
One Sign at a Time
Woodbury High School students have translated more than 50 children’s books from English to American Sign Language.
Photo: Alissa Coddington
Happy Homes, Happier You, page 24
from the EDITOR
Spring is the season of new beginnings, and this year, my husband and I are embarking on one of our own: searching for our first home. It’s an exciting (and slightly overwhelming!) journey— open houses, endless inspiration and Pinterest boards, and the anticipation of finding the place where we’ll build our future.
As we dream about how we’ll decorate—imagining walls lined with bookshelves, cozy nooks and an inviting atmosphere— I can’t help but think about how home truly reflects the people who fill it. In these pages, we’re celebrating just that: the spaces we create and the lives we build within them. In this, our semiannual homes issue, I welcome you to make your home—and your life!—a little brighter from the inside out.
I connect with Merriment’s owner and principal designer Sarah Olsen on the topic of dopamine décor—an exciting trend that splashes color and personality through your space. I’ve taken Olsen’s advice to add more personalized touches throughout my own space: unique knickknacks I’ve picked up from my travels, adorable portraits of my pets and thrifted art don the walls and shelves. Discover how to incorporate more textures, patterns and colors into your home (page 24).
Also throughout these pages, I invite you to make your house a home. Tour a Woodbury home designed by Twigg + Lu that incorporates class and character into one whimsical design (page 32); learn about recent trends in an often untouched space—the bathroom! (page 16) and more.
For those, like my husband and I, who are just beginning their journey, I hope you find ideas that spark excitement for what’s ahead. Here’s to new chapters and the beauty of home.
Almsted hailey@localmedia.co
Photo:
Cookie Cutter to Character, Photo by Kendra Denault Photography, page 32
Hailey
Meet
Yaz Lo graphic Designer
Q: What’s currently sparking your interest?
A: I am currently interested in waxcasting jewelry and am excited to be taking classes this year.
Q: How do you like to unwind?
A: I like to unwind with cuddles with my kitty and cooking dinner.
Q: What’s the best part of your job?
A: The best part of my job is coming into the office and learning something new every day. No days are the same, and the Art department is such a supportive group to be a part of.
VOL. 20 NO. 9 woodburymag.com
PUBLISHER
Susan Isay
EDITOR
Hailey Almsted
MANAGING CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Renée Stewart-Hester
MANAGING EDITOR
Hailey Almsted
DIGITAL EDITOR
Madeline Kopiecki
COPY EDITORS
Kellie Doherty and Sherri Hildebrandt
STAFF WRITERS
Mollee Francisco, Emily Gedde, Meredith Heneghan, Daniel Huss, Jennifer Pitterle and Rachel Schuehle
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Megan Koren, Amy Leferink, Gretchen McNaughton, Manali Shah, Patty (Stutzman) Paulus and Katie Tomsche
DIGITAL INTERN
Taylor Hamilton
EDITORIAL INTERNS
Ellie Heyerdahl and Emma Souza
EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD
Shawn Hogendorf, South Washington County Schools ; Michele Magistad, Woodbury Area Chamber of Commerce ; Sue McKeown, South Washington County Schools Community Education, SoWashCo CARES ; and Shelly Schafer, City of Woodbury
SENIOR MANAGING ART DIRECTOR
Sarah Dovolos
ART DIRECTOR
Allison Nolden
ASSOCIATE ART DIRECTOR
Jamie Klang
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Yaz Lo
LEAD STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Chris Emeott
PRODUCTION DIRECTOR
Brittni Dye
PRODUCTION MANAGER
Lisa Stone
PRODUCTION COORDINATOR
Mimi Coz
SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES
Laura Bjorgo, Cynthia Hamre, Mary-Catherine Hartel and Sara Johnson
PRESIDENT Pete Burgeson
To subscribe to Woodbury Magazine , please visit localmedia.co. For customer service inquiries, please contact hello@localmedia.co, or call 612.208.6248. ©Local LLC 2025. All rights reserved.
Olive Branch Oil and Spice brings its unique flavors and products to Woodbury.
For cooks on the lookout for quality ingredients, products and recipes that bring fresh, inspired elements and flavors into their kitchens, Olive Branch Oil and Spice answers the call.
Consider Roasted Tomato Bruschetta with traditional aged balsamic vinegar, basil extra virgin olive oil and bruschetta seasoning. How about Chocolate Olive Oil Cake, inspired by co-owner Jenny Ramseth’s great-grandmother’s recipe, which arrives rich and tender with cocoa powder, Koroneiki Greek extra virgin olive oil and vanilla bean paste? Olive Branch offers a full menu unique recipes and ingredients that bring new flavors to our dining tables.
Olive Branch offers high-quality olive oils, sourced from farms in Arizona, California, Greece, Italy and Spain. And shelves at the White Bear Lake and Woodbury locations are filled with a broad selection of Italian aged balsamic vinegars, fresh spices, handcrafted blends, local and regional specialty food and expertly culled kitchen and home goods.
Jenny and husband, Paul Ramseth, opened the Woodbury location in 2024. “Our store is a great place to learn about and sample our products,” Jenny says. “We have all of our olive oils and vinegars ready to taste!”
The couple’s interest in the market space was informed by Jenny’s passion for cooking. “Over the years, I’ve created
my own spice blends, which we hand mix in the store,” Jenny says. “Our website features recipes that I’ve developed and use for my own family.”
Spring welcomes bridal showers, weddings and Mother’s and Father’s days, and Olive Branch is an ideal spot to shop for any occasion. “We have a great selection of gift sets with our most popular spices, oils and vinegars,” Jenny says. “We also have beautiful custom gift baskets that we create for the perfect unique gift.”
Need ideas? Best-selling products include Greek, Italian and Spanish extra virgin olive oils; olive oils infused with herbs and garlic; traditional aged dark and white balsamic vinegars from Italy; and handcrafted blends, including Northwoods Steak, Tuscan and Italian seasoning.
BREATHE NEW LIFE INTO YOUR HOME
Spring is the perfect time to shake off the winter blues and give your home a fresh, vibrant update. The best part? You don’t need a complete overhaul to make a big impact. Here are some simple ways to refresh your space this season.
Start with a color switch. Swap out heavy, dark textiles for lighter, brighter options. Think soft pastels, cheerful yellows or crisp whites for throw pillows, blankets and curtains. Adding a colorful area rug can also instantly brighten a room.
Next, bring in the outdoors. Fresh flowers or greenery add life and energy to any space. A simple bouquet on the dining table or a cluster of small potted plants on a windowsill make all the difference.
For a truly unexpected touch, consider wallpapering the ceiling—often referred to as the “fifth wall.” Choose a subtle floral pattern, a light pastel or even a bold graphic print to add spring-inspired elegance overhead. This trick works particularly well in smaller spaces like powder rooms or bedrooms.
Amy Leferink is the founder and principal designer for Interior Impressions, and Megan Koren is the marketing director for Interior Impressions. Design more at interiorimpressions.org.
As spring arrives, think about how to bring vibrancy into your living spaces— fresh flowers, new colors and more can rejuvenate your space.
Celebrate Earth Day
In this children’s book written by Stacy McAnulty, meet Earth—your home planet and home to nearly 8 billion people, plants and animals. When Earth realizes that climate change is rapidly happening, she needs Earthlings—aka humans— to help slow it down and save Earth. This autobiography-style book includes kid-friendly facts and illustrations by David Litchfield. Our Planet! There’s No Place Like Earth is the sixth installment of the Our Universe series, which includes children’s books about the Earth, the sun, the moon, other planets and more. —Hailey Almsted
Gretchen McNaughton is the communications and content strategist at Bailey Nurseries. Grow more at easyeleganceroses.com. READ
Gifting Florals
A few years ago, my partner and I were embarking on a trip to Wisconsin to visit his family. In classic road trip fashion, the car was full. It was around Mother’s Day, and as we headed out of town, I got an Easy Elegance® Music Box Rose to gift his mom. I know I’m not the first person to think of gifting plants to friends and family, but there’s truly something special about giving someone in your life a plant that can be cared for and last year after year.
I’m happy to say that the rose is a gift that truly keeps on giving. It has settled beautifully in their backyard, and on a trip
we made last September, his mom happily reported that Music Box was going strong. I even got to see the late-season blooms! As this gardening season begins—and with Mother’s Day right around the corner!—we all think about what we want to add to our spaces, so I encourage you to think outside of your yards. Who in your life might enjoy something new and something green added to their space?
Photo:
GROW
Easy Elegance® Music Box Rose
DISCOVER
How and When Woodbury Gained Electricity
On June 13, 1918, at a meeting held in a granary, 16 farmers organized a company to bring electricity to Woodbury. They elected officers, and a motion was made and carried that each member put in $50. They named themselves Woodbury Light and Power.
At the next meeting on June 22, a motion was made to “get bids on wire and order same.” By August 22, each of the original members had contributed $250 for supplies and equipment. They paid out $2,832 for over 250 cedar poles and 6,500 pounds of wire and in November signed a contract with Northern States Power Co. to furnish electricity, connecting it at the Cottage Grove town line.
The member farmers constructed the power line themselves, and the line ran north on Tower Drive (now Radio Drive) to Bailey Road, then turned east for 3 miles. On August 19, electricity was turned on for the first time in Woodbury.
In 1921, a group of farmers to the west and north of the original line formed another company and constructed a line west from Tower Drive/Bailey Road to Woodlane Drive, then north to the Woodbury Methodist Church and west to the Ramsey County line. By 1930, extensions to both power lines had brought electricity to approximately 90 farmers in Woodbury.
In 1930, the local lines were sold by mutual consent of the users to Northern States Power for $38,350, and the company assumed responsibility for the operation of the lines. A large portion of Woodbury had electricity before many other rural communities, thanks to the farmer-owned power companies.
Margaret Wachholz is a member of the Woodbury Heritage Society. Discover more at woodburyheritage.org.
Free-standing soaking tubs offer a unique focal point in the bathroom—instantly creating a wow factor and leaving a lasting impression.
Bathing Beauties
An area designer looks at bathroom design trends for 2025 and beyond.
By Jennifer Pitterle
It can be easy to put our design focus on guest-facing rooms in the home: the kitchen, the living room and maybe the guest bedroom. But bathrooms—especially those part of a primary suite— are having a huge moment, says Janel Swanson, owner of Wildwood Kitchens and Baths, her Lake Elmo design-build firm. “Fifteen years ago, bathrooms were more utilitarian,” Swanson says. “Now, people are wanting more of a sanctuary for some alone time and relaxation time.”
So what are some design trends for bathrooms we can embrace? We asked Swanson for her predictions and favorites as we look at what’s happening with bathroom design this year and beyond.
Large-format Tile and Stone Panels
“In general, we’re seeing people choose higher-end materials for tile and stone,” Swanson says. “And a lot less grout. People just want less maintenance and cleaning.” She and her team are installing
shower panels (like Wilsonart’s Wetwall system) for more modest budgets and large panels of marble or quartz in less cost-conscious spaces.
Walk-in Showers
Recently, Swanson says, clients are opting to tear out their traditional built-in tubs and not replace them—instead, they devote the newfound square footage to a large, walk-in shower with high-end stone or tile. “We might add a bench because
Photo: Wildwood Kitchens and Baths
there’s more space,” Swanson says. “We also see a lot of rain showerheads and multiple showerheads—like a handheld and a body spray.” She’s also seen custom niches and ledges installed, often with integrated lighting, to keep shampoobottle clutter contained.
Soaking Tubs and Wet Rooms
For folks who still want a tub, the trend is to install a free-standing soaking tub (deep enough for an adult to get most of their body under the warm water). “We also see whole ‘wet rooms’, where there’s a free-standing tub within the shower enclosure, all in one area behind the glass,” Swanson says. She notes that clients who want to age in their homes are also installing built-in tubs with a wide surround or deck. “Having an area where there’s a ledge to sit on can really help you ease your body in and out of the tub,” she says.
Mixed Metals
Goodbye, nickel; hello, matte black and bronze. Swanson says mixed-metal faucets, towel hooks and mirror frames can keep a bathroom’s look from being too one note. “Different manufacturers also make different colored brass,” she says. “So it can be hard to match them.” Doing a combination of black and brass (or gold, another trending metal) works well.
Luxe Details
Bathrooms should feel as welcoming and thoughtfully designed as any other room. Swanson says she’s seeing a trend toward high-end details, from ecofriendly toilets and faucets to textured, 3D tile backsplash behind a vanity. Bold wallpaper, used judiciously on an accent wall, is also having a moment. “Other than those details, we’re seeing a neutral color palette,” Swanson says. “People want a natural, organic look.” If a bathroom has windows, Swanson says, it makes sense to use frosted glass rather than blinds or shades that need to be cleaned. “That way, you can still have the light coming in,” she says.
Wildwood Kitchens and Baths, 12445 55th St. N., Lake Elmo; 651.363.3150; wildwoodkitchensandbaths.com
Wildwood Kitchens and Baths, inc. @ww_kitchens
Wildwood Kitchens and Baths, Inc.
Ride for the Ages
A unique biking program pedals on at Saint Therese.
By Daniel Huss
Ole Kassow, founder of Cycling Without Age (CWA), calls cycling the happiest means of transport. He’s not wrong. The CWA movement is a way to get elders back on their bikes. It started in Copenhagen in 2012 and has grown to more than 3,500 locations (chapters) in 20 countries. Saint Therese of Woodbury started biking its residents in 2021.
“I’m one of the instigators,” says Peter Grasse, volunteer pilot and pilot trainer/ volunteer bike mechanic/volunteer grant writer. “I watched a Ted Talk on [CWA] at an E-bike Expo in 2019. After the presentation, I turned to my friend John Simmet and said, ‘We really need to find a place to do this.’ We knew folks at Saint Therese, so …”
On Saint Therese’s behalf, Grasse and Simmet applied for a Minnesota Department of Human Services grant. They were seeking funds to pay for a CWA trishaw, a three-wheeled bike designed to carry passengers. The trishaw they had their sights set on would be equipped with a power-assist E-battery, which helps with transport, hills in particular.
“I joke with the other pilots [that] if people have to get out to get up a hill, it’s going to lower their rating,” Grasse says.
Passengers ride side by side on a bench, sitting at the front of the trishaw. There’s a canopy, footrest and lap blanket, and the pedals are in the back. “You’ve got wind in your hair, you’ve got sunshine and you’ve got nice conservation,” Grasse says. “Our riders just love it.”
The grant paid for half of the trishaw, plus maintenance. Fundraising, including donations from Grasse and Simmet, funded the other half.
Bottom: Resident Dave Strehlow and a family member enjoy a ride.
Photos: Saint Therese of Woodbury
Top: Resident Barb Hafiz and her daughter, Jackie, who also volunteers at Saint Therese of Woodbury.
While COVID-19 delayed the Saint Therese CWA rollout, the program has been picking up speed ever since.
“I gave a ride to a daughter and her mother, a resident at Saint Therese,” Grasse says. “The mom grew up in Iowa and remembered biking with her mom. She said her mom would stop at the top of a hill, yell, ‘No guts, no glory’ and then go charging down. During our ride, I stopped at the top of a hill, yelled, ‘No guts, no glory’ and then raced down the hill. They loved it.”
Resident Dave Strehlow grew up the youngest of 10 children and never really had a bike of his own. Last summer, he went on a ride with a daughter who lives in Woodbury. “She knew all the places,” Strehlow says. “She said we might see an eagle, and, by gosh, we did. It was sitting next to a power line. We even saw its nest.
“Everything about this program is beautiful, from making an appointment to signing the waiver to riding with volunteers who give so much of their time and talent,” he says. “It’s such a treasure.”
Volunteer services coordinator
Elizabeth Anderson is in charge of recruiting pilots, aka the trishaw drivers.
“When I started, I was flummoxed; how do we get this to grow?” Anderson says. “We started small in 2021 with six volunteers, giving 37 rides. In 2022, seven volunteers gave 64 rides. In 2023, it was seven and 67. Last year, eight volunteers gave 135 rides.”
Anderson was one of last year’s riders. “I went on a summer ride with one of my favorite residents,” she says. “It was just grand.”
One resident went on 20-plus rides. “He was out there every day, watching and talking,” Anderson says. “If someone couldn’t make it, he’d fill in.”
Saint Therese of Woodbury, 7555 Bailey Road; 651.209.9100; sainttherese.org
A few of the books that students in
are translating from English to ASL.
Photos: Chris Emeott
Kristin Kohner’s American Sign Language (ASL) class
One Sign at a Time
Woodbury High School students have translated more than 50 children’s books from English to American Sign Language.
By Emily Gedde
When a Woodbury High School (WHS) teacher came across inspiration for an American Sign Language (ASL) inclusion project online—One Sign at a Time— she decided to implement it at South Washington County Schools (SoWashCo). Now, more than two years later, Kristin Kohner and WHS students have led the effort to translate over 50 children’s books from English to ASL in a project she says is rewarding on so many levels.
The project translates children’s books from English to ASL using QR codes inserted into the books, which are scanned to view a video translation. The value, Kohner says, is having an “understanding of another culture, Deaf culture, ASL, hearing loss, inclusion and literacy.”
Kohner shares more about the project and the value it brings to everyone
Kristin Kohner
involved. She says no matter what role was played in the effort, it has delivered joy across the board.
How did the idea for translating books take shape?
Kristin Kohner (KK): My principal, Sarah Sorenson-Wagner, and I were former teachers of the deaf and hard of hearing (TDHH) together in this district, and she is fluent in ASL. While we were TDHH, we worked with general education classes, promoting inclusion. We always found that this not only helped the student with hearing loss, but students and staff as well. This process helped inclusion to be so much more seamless. In 2023, I proposed the book project idea to [SorensonWagner], and she ordered the books for our school.
Explain the process.
KK: Using the books we purchased for this
project, students were able to select a book of their choice and began to translate from English to ASL. It is important to note that ASL and English are separate languages. They met with me one-on-one to review their work and ask questions. After several weeks of translating, practicing, working with partners and with me for feedback, they filmed themselves signing the book. When finished, they voice recorded themselves reading the book. This helps to ensure inclusion for all students who are hearing, hard of hearing and deaf. At the end of the book, students are required to teach 10 signs that related to their book. This helps students understand that ASL and English are separate languages. An English word doesn’t always equate to one sign. For example, the English word run can be translated to ASL in more than 20 different signs, depending on the context and meaning.
How does the QR code work?
KK: Upon completion of their video, students created QR codes to place on the outside of their books. When an elementary student checks out one of these books, they use a device to scan the QR code to view the video.
Photos: Chris Emeott
Left: Adriyana Lolar signs the word “tree” in front of a green screen in which students use while recording their translation videos.
Top: Kristin Kohner’s ASL class with books they are working on translating.
Are there certain kinds of books that are translated?
KK: Over the past two years, dedicated 12th-grade ASL students have translated over 50 books focusing on Deaf culture, hearing loss, deaf-blindness and ASL.
Have there been challenges to overcome?
KK: With any project, we are learning how to do things more efficiently. For example, in the first year, I had them record themselves reading the book first. We realized that this should be done at the end. Students are translating from English to ASL, and there may be a lag time because of this. We want to try to ensure that the signing and voice recordings match as closely as possible.
What has the reaction been?
KK: It’s been amazing. The ASL students love the project, and elementary students love it, too. Our district parents have been very supportive in donating books. Our district administrators have been very supportive as well. ASL students visit elementary schools to talk about the project, show a video and promote the books. We try to coordinate this with classes that have a student who is deaf, hard of hearing or deaf-blind. We have received such positive feedback.
Looking Toward the Future
Kohner has big goals for the future of this project. She says, “I would like to get Deaf community volunteers to help with translation as this is a big project and challenging to meet one-on-one with students to help with translation.” For those unfamiliar with ASL, Kohner says there are events around the Twin Cities to learn more about Deaf culture and community.
“Deaf people can do anything hearing people can do except hear,” she says. “Learning ASL leads to learning another language, learning about Deaf culture and becoming less sign language impaired.”
She adds that they have received a grant from SoWashCo, which will go toward materials, and additional funds from donors to go toward translate books and materials. She says, “It’s been an amazing partnership with SoWashCo students, teachers, parents, administrators and the community.”
Learn more about One Sign at a Time by visiting sowashco.org.
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Dopamine décor isn’t just a passing trend—creating rooms that inspire and instill happiness, such as one filled with creative color, will always be in style.
Written by Hailey Almsted — Photos by Alissa Coddington
Happy Homes, Happier You
Discover how dopamine décor can brighten your space—and your mood.
“Does it spark joy?”
This question, of course, refers to organizing consultant Marie Kondo’s popular home makeover series, Tidying Up with Marie Kondo, where she introduced the Konmari Method. Kondo’s goal is to curate a space filled only with items that bring happiness. Five years later, the idea of sparking joy remains just as relevant—often manifesting in a vibrant home decorating trend: dopamine décor. To discuss this trend and how to embrace it in your home, we spoke with Sarah Olsen, owner and principal designer at Merriment.
What is dopamine décor, and why is it gaining popularity?
Sarah Olsen (SO): Dopamine décor as a design style has become more popular in recent years. Out are the days of blah interiors in white and gray. In are vibrant colors and patterns, especially in couture interior design. As a society, we have again embraced all that color and pattern can add to our lives. Not only as beauty in our surroundings, but also by way of psychologically adding internal pleasure and happiness from the effect it has on the brain.
Dopamine décor is the concept of designing and decorating your living or working spaces in a way that evokes feelings of happiness and positive energy flow for the dweller or user of the spaces. This effect is created by using bright, energy-forward colors and patterns that send out a good vibe. The key is to use a color palette [to please] the person using the spaces.
The word dopamine is used for this type of design because it relates to the dopamine also known as the “happy hormone” that is released in the brain to give you feelings of pleasure, motivation and contentment. Dopamine in the brain does many good things for lots of our body functions, such as mood, memory, learning, sleep and of course overall happiness. Thus, the word dopamine is used to describe this design style, which capitalizes on creating those feelings of happiness and positivity.
What are some beginner-friendly ways to introduce this design style?
SO: Introducing dopamine décor into your spaces is easy. It can be as simple as painting a wall in a color, such as yellow, orange or pink to add cheerfulness to the room. Starting with
a room you don’t use for long periods of time, such as a mudroom, pantry or powder bathroom, is a safe way to start. Once a color is established, layering can add more design style. An art collage atop the paint color that has mood-boosting images and colors may be just enough to evoke the good feelings you are looking for.
How do we balance bold colors and patterns without overwhelming a room?
SO: And here is the challenge! How to balance a room with bold colors and patterns is not as easy as it appears to be. Staying with a cohesive palette of colors should be determined from the beginning, even if that group of colors is more than one or two. Selecting a grouping of colors that appeals to you is key. Everyone has their own “color eye” and knows when a color is personally satisfying to themselves. It is helpful to use paint samples you can bring around with you when gathering your design ideas, so you’re able to stay in the family of colors you are using when layering with various wallpapers, fabrics for pillows or drapery, accessories and floor coverings, such as rugs. Also, it is good to give the eye a break here and there by mixing in some neutrals.
Are there any guidelines for mixing and matching patterns?
SO: Paying attention to the scale and proportion of the patterns is important. Making sure the shapes and forms of what you are matching together are not in competition and watching to see if they have some similar traits between them, such as the same amount of curvy lines or the same patterns from a particular era or decade of the past. Don’t be afraid to combine lots of patterns or go a little wild with color. If what you combine with color and patterns is making you feel happy with butterflies in your stomach and has put a smile on your face, chances are you are doing dopamine décor in an amazing way.
Is dopamine décor here to stay, or is it a passing trend?
SO: The name of dopamine décor will undoubtedly be reflective of this period and may not be used to describe design with lots of color and pattern, as trends and buzzwords change. So while this concept may go by a different name in the future, the idea of using color and pattern mixing will undoubtedly stay. What would the world be without things to cause us to feel good, be happier and have more positivity in life?
Do you have advice for someone feeling intimidated by bold design choices?
SO: If you feel intimidated by bold design choices, you may want to consult with a professional interior designer. They are the ones who practice the art of blending color and pattern to achieve a truly wonderful effect. They also have the world of fabrics, wallpapers, art, rugs and so forth at their fingertips, which make for more choices for the overall scheme of the layered design. Plus, it’s fun to have a partner to do design with, thus creating happiness in the process!
Merriment, 520 Commons Drive Floor 2; 651.219.4597; homeatmerriment.com Merriment @homeatmerriment
“Don’t be afraid to combine lots of patterns or go a little wild with color.”
Sarah Olsen
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COOKIE CUTTER TO CHARACTER
The designers at Twigg + Lu Company have done it again. Between boldpatterned wallpaper and emerald green tiles, the dynamic duo of Brittany Meidinger and Shannon Knutson have transformed a Woodbury home into an eye-catching masterpiece.
Dubbed Cookie Cutter to Character, the home was newly built, and the designers say the project’s name came from the idea that the space just needed a bit of personality and new furnishings to vamp it up.
“This project is considered a main-level refresh. Along with doing larger scale remodels, this is a type of project we also like to do,” Knutson says. “A refresh is different from a remodel in the sense that we are not tearing out a lot of existing finishes from the home but rather adding millwork, wallpaper, paint, new lighting, furnishings and décor ... We worked on everything from the foyer, guest bathroom, living room, kitchen, dining room, mudroom and laundry room.”
Let’s take a tour through the home, noting favorite areas and recommendations for anyone looking to give their space a fresh look.
Written by Emily Gedde
Photos by Kendra Denault Photography
A refreshed look gives a Woodbury home a new personality.
THE FOYER
Entering through the foyer, the wallpaper offers the essence of a statement mural.
“[We] did some digging to find this pretty black and white botanical scene,” Meidinger says. “It has a vintage vibe to it, which we loved. This was such a large wall; the idea really came up because we knew we needed something besides just a mirror and that we wanted that area to make a statement and be unique but also flow with the other areas as it is an openconcept floor plan.”
The designers also swapped out a previous console table with something that had more of a rustic flare to help set the tone for the rest of the refresh.
THE MUDROOM
Tucked back in the house, the mudroom needed a pop of color. “We knew we wanted a floral wallpaper here,” Meidinger says. “The green in the wallpaper plays off nicely with the laundry room tile, which is located right off of this entry.”
Wallpaper can make homeowners nervous, and Meidinger recommends trying it in small doses. “A powder bath is a great opportunity to install wallpaper, and we have also put wallpaper in foyers, laundry rooms, primary bedrooms and dining rooms,” she says. “The big thing is finding a paper you love. Order samples, and let them sit in your space for a while to be sure it is something you can live with. Life is short; add the wallpaper.”
THE KITCHEN
A glance into the kitchen likely takes eyes right up to the unique light fixtures. Tying in black and gold for a vintage look, they offer a statement piece in the space.
Because the home was a new build, the designers didn’t do much in the kitchen but did give the island some attention. “The stool side of the island was originally plain sheetrock that was painted the same color as the walls,” Knutson says. “We came up with the idea to add millwork to the island and have the whole piece painted black. This gave a much more custom and substantial look to this kitchen without doing a complete overhaul.”
Other items updated in the kitchen included cabinet hardware and the faucet. “The vintage runner rug and décor were the finishing touches to give a more custom look to this kitchen,” Knutson says.
THE LAUNDRY ROOM
Laundry is not often a favorite household chore, but adding life to a laundry room can make it a little more enjoyable. For this space, the designers say the homeowner had the vision, and they brought it to life with green tile and accent shelving.
“Creative ideas can come to you when you aren’t necessarily looking for them,” the duo says. “Be patient, keep your eyes peeled, trust yourself, take the chance and be bold.”
Quick Tip
If you’re reluctant to add pops of color or patterns to your home, Shannon Knutson suggests trying it with items that can be easily swapped out.
THE DINING ROOM
While still full of character, the dining area leans toward a minimalistic look on purpose. “Not everything needs to be the star of the show,” Meidinger says.
In the case of the table and chairs, Meidinger says the designers avoid purchasing items as a set and instead like to mix and match for a more unique look.
In addition, the women put a lot of thought into lighting. “Lighting is something we are very passionate about,” Meidinger says. “Light fixtures can make or break a space. A big part of the selection process is making sure the finishes work well together and that the scale for the lights is correct for your space.”
THE GUEST BATHROOM
The designers admit they had to weigh ideas for the guest bath with their client’s budget, deciding to make an impact without breaking the bank.
“We chose this moody paint color— Sherwin Williams Iron Ore—splurged on a great light fixture and added personality with the art collage, towels, mirror and a vintage rug,” Knutson says. “This bathroom turned out to be one of our favorite areas of the home, and it didn’t cost a fortune to get the look. Sometimes, you just need to get creative.”
THE LIVING ROOM
Don’t be fooled—the accent wall in the living room isn’t brown; it has a plum hue to it. With the intention of the wall standing out, the designers say they shocked the homeowner with deep plum, brown and burgundy paint swatches when selecting the final color.
“She trusted the process, and we are so glad she did,” Knutson says. “We don’t believe this space would have had nearly the impact it does had the wall been painted white. The plumy-brown plays well with the green velvet sofa.”
Speaking of the sofa, the women say they love the color of this piece. As the anchor in the space, they knew having it be a stand-out color made the most sense.
“Part of our design process is doing furniture space plans and putting together custom furniture orders from our vendors,” Knutson says. “We go to a furniture market each year where we see and sit on furniture options to get a good grasp of comfort and scale of the pieces. We make furniture shopping easy for our clients.”
In addition to the room’s furniture, the fireplace got an overhaul. The original look was a basic white surround with tile. Meidinger and Knutson opted for a neutral stone to run from floor to ceiling with a wood mantle. “It adds warmth and texture while being very classic and timeless,” Knutson says.
twiggandlu.com Twigg + Lu Design Co. @twiggandlu_designco
2850 Curve Crest Blvd, Suite 230
Stillwater, MN 55082
651 439-8909
1000 Radio Drive, Suite 220
Woodbury, MN 55125
651 739-1555
Loaves of Love
A baker creates sourdough bread that connects the community.
Written by Hailey Almsted — Photos by Chris Emeott
At Nana’s Cottage Bakery, Adria Turner creates beautiful loaves of sourdough, as well as other beloved bakery treats such as baguettes or scones.
When it comes to sourdough, patience isn’t just a virtue—it’s a necessity. For local baker Adria Turner, patience, curiosity and a nod to family traditions have culminated in a thriving cottage bakery named Nana’s Cottage. Inspired by her daughter Marissa Knudson’s gift of a sourdough starter in 2021, Turner embarked on a baking journey.
After retiring at 48 from a decadeslong career in consumer packaged goods, Turner sought a slower pace and new hobbies to enjoy. It was during this time that sourdough entered the picture. What began as a personal experiment in her kitchen quickly grew into a labor of love—and eventually her business. “I was making bread for myself, my family, and I started sharing with friends and neighbors,” she says. “It really grew organically.”
The Art of Sourdough
The process of creating sourdough bread is as intricate as it is rewarding. It all starts with the sourdough starter, a living culture that must be fed daily with flour and water; Turner is committed to using all organic ingredients, which is nonnegotiable in her kitchen. From there, a levain is created, which acts as the active version of the starter, before moving on to the dough itself. Each loaf requires hours of stretching, folding and resting—not to mention a night in the refrigerator to develop its delicious flavor and digestibility.
“Preparing the dough, start to finish, is 24 hours. You don’t work the whole time; you have to wait a lot,” Turner says, noting she typically allows her loaves to rest in the fridge for the next 24 hours.
“You really have to listen to the dough,” she says. “I would follow directions to a tee, and it wasn’t working. I told my husband, ‘I’m going to do what I think I need to do …’ You really have to figure out what works for you and what works in your kitchen. That’s where the magic happens.” Some liken sourdough baking to a dance—you’re not in control as much as you partner with the dough, letting it dictate the tempo. The dough’s rhythms require flexibility and the ability to adapt to the seasons and temperature. Summer’s heat accelerates the fermentation, while winter slows it down. For Turner, the magic lies in learning what works for her kitchen and her organic ingredients.
Adria Turner
Top: In Adria Turner’s kitchen, perfecting her sourdough takes a minimum of 24 hours—a product of love, indeed!
“You really have to listen to the dough. I would follow directions to a tee, and it wasn’t working. I told my husband, ‘I’m going to do what I think I need to do …’ You really have to figure out what works for you and what works in your kitchen, that’s where the magic happens.”
From the Kitchen to the Market
By 2023, Turner started bringing her bread to the Lake Elmo Farmers Market, where she enjoyed connecting with customers. The following year, she joined the Woodbury Farmers Market, which further cemented her love for bringing handmade, wholesome bread to the community. She’s enjoyed selling through Nana’s Cottage so much so that she and her husband, Jeffrey Turner, built out a bakery in their basement, complete with a professional bread oven.
In addition to sourdough, Turner’s repertoire includes a variety of sourdoughbased products. One standout, she notes, is her soft sandwich loaf that’s enriched with milk and honey. Her scones, a top seller, are a testament to her creativity; she often experiments with seasonal flavors, such as pumpkin spice in the fall or cranberry in the winter, to keep her offerings fresh.
While her bread usually comes out of the oven beautifully golden, not every loaf is picture-perfect. Even an occasional misstep finds a purpose—often as a treat for the ducks behind her house. The perfect loaves are sold at the local farmers markets in the warmer months, and Turner also offers a porch pickup option via Hot Plate during the winter. The
Bottom: A beautiful loaf of sourdough has a crisp, golden crust and an airy crumb with irregular holes throughout.
Adria Turner
process is simple: Customers are alerted when Turner is baking, they place their orders in advance and she ensures bread is ready for collection at the chosen time.
Shaping the Future, Honoring the Past
Looking ahead, Turner has no significant plans for growth. For her, the joy lies in the simplicity of what she does—creating something healthy and handmade that can’t be found at the supermarket. While she’s open to where the journey may take her, she’s content with the balance she currently has with the bakery. Its name—Nana’s Cottage—holds a special place in her heart, Turner says, as it’s a tribute to her stepmother, Diane Nelson, who ran a coffee bar called Nana’s Cottage in Chetek, Wisconsin, during the 1990s. Naming her business after her children’s Nana felt like a way to honor her legacy and bring it into a new era of homemade goodness. Even the sourdough starter shares the name Nana, a fitting moniker for a starter that has been lovingly nurtured and shared.
Nana’s Cottage; hotplate.com/nanascottage
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• Requires CorTrust Bank checking account with automatic payments, otherwise a 0.25% rate increase will be applied.
*Promotional rate for qualified applicants only. Subject to credit approval. Limited-time offer. Loan must originate by 8/30/2025. Annual percentage rate of 7.804% is based on $450,000 loan. Valid for 12-months from origination, after which permanent financing needs to be obtained. All lender fees and closing costs still apply. Other terms and conditions may apply. Interest rates are not guaranteed and subject to customer credit history, income and other factors.
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~ Jules & Jenny
A NIGHT AT THE SUPPER CLUB
Woodbury Friends Fest is back for another year of community.
Ladies, it’s time to pull out your cocktail and party attire, and men, press your suits and sport jackets—it’s time for Woodbury Friends Fest. Enjoy an evening of community and celebration on April 27 at The Confluence Hotel in Hastings. This event serves as the Woodbury Community Foundation’s (WCF) annual fundraiser, and the organization supports programs and nonprofits that uplift and strengthen the community.
“Experience the charm of a classic supper club, where friends and neighbors gather to enjoy great food, conversation and camaraderie,” says Cindy Shanley, 2025 Friends Fest chair. The evening includes a menu celebrating supper club traditions, opportunities to connect, a silent and live auction, music, games and a program. All proceeds benefit the WCF.
“Don’t miss the chance to be part of a meaningful evening that celebrates connection, generosity and the spirit of community,” Shanley says. —Hailey Almsted
Ages 16 and older. $125/individual, $240/couple and $920/table of eight.
5–9 p.m. The Confluence Hotel, 200 Second St. W., Hastings; 651.505.7024; wcffest2025.givesmart.com
Snapshots from Woodbury Friends Fest 2024. The fundraising event promises an evening of delightful fun, including a silent and live auction, social networking, a program and more.
Women in Business
CELEBRATING 15 YEARS!
WIB GUEST PASS
JOIN US FOR OUR NEXT NETWORKING EVENT
Compiled by Ellie Heyerdahl and Emma Souza
FOR FREE!
LOCAL EVENTS
Women’s networking opportunity—meets on the third Friday of each month from 8–9:30 a.m. at the Cottage Grove City Hall Training Room. Email laurie@cottagegrovechamber.org for more info.
Women in Business 12800 Ravine Parkway, Cottage Grove 651.458.8334 cottagegrovechamber.org
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04.03–04.05
Rumors
Enjoy a performance of Neil Simon’s play Rumors by Woodbury High School’s Royal Theatre. When guests arrive at an elegant dinner party, they discover that a spouse is missing, which sets off a chain of outrageous rumors. All ages. Free, donations accepted. 7 p.m. Woodbury High School, 2665 Woodlane Drive; 651.425.4400; whsactivities.org
04.10
Life Skills for Young Adults
Learn how to navigate the ins and outs of living independently, resolving roommate conflicts and maintaining an apartment. Ages 14–18. Free, registration required. 5:30–7 p.m. R.H. Stafford Library, 8595 Central Park Place; 651.731.1320; washcolib.org
04.12
Legends of Wine
Discover several inspirational winemakers in this class while sipping on a variety of their creations, spanning across the globe. Ages 21 and older. $20/ person. 5–6:30 p.m. Total Wine, 7150 Valley Creek Plaza; 651.735.0910; totalwine.com
04.19
Breakfast With the Bunny
Enjoy a breakfast buffet while doing a craft and taking pictures with the Easter Bunny. All ages. $20 registration fee for breakfast. 8:30 a.m.–12:15 p.m., time slots vary. Eagle Valley Golf Course, 2600 Double Eagle Lane; 651.714.3500; woodburymn.gov
04.26
New Life Academy Auction
Participate in a night of live and silent auctions for prizes and activities. Proceeds go toward the academy’s tuition and programs. All ages. $100. 5–9 p.m. New Life Academy, 6758 Bailey Road; 651.757.4313; newlifeacademy.org
WOODBURY COMMUNITY EXPO
04.05
Connect with the Woodbury community through local food offerings, live music and interactive booths. All ages. Free. 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Woodbury High School, 2665 Woodlane Drive; 651.578.0722; woodburychamber.org
AREA EVENTS
04.02–04.13
International Film Festival
The 44th annual Minneapolis St. Paul International Film Festival returns to The Main Cinema and other venues, showcasing more than 200 films from around the world. Parties, panels, filmmakers and special guests are also part of this celebration. All ages. Prices vary. Times vary. Venues vary. 612.395.4444; mspfilm.org
04.08–04.13
Mean Girls
From writer Tina Fey comes Mean Girls, a Broadway adaptation of the popular movie. All ages. Prices vary. Times vary. Ordway, 345 Washington St., St. Paul; 651.224.4222; ordway.org
04.10
Reading of The Great Gatsby
The Minnesota Historical Society and the Friends of the St. Paul Library honor F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby on its 100th anniversary with a live reading of the novel, from start to finish. All ages. Free. 1:30–7:30 p.m. The Minnesota History Center, 345 W. Kellogg Blvd., St. Paul; 651.222.3242; thefriends.org
04.26
RITE Day
With hands-on workshops, kids activities, information stations and free
recycling, this is an event for folks who are Really into the Earth (RITE). All ages. Free. 10 a.m.–1 p.m. Wildwood Elementary, 8698 75th St. N., Stillwater; 651.407.2018; communityed.mahtomedi.k12.mn.us
04.26
Food Truck Spring Fling
Kick-off spring with a variety of food trucks with options ranging from street tacos to barbecue to sweet desserts. Fourteen food trucks will be in attendance, offering foods from around the world. All ages. Free. 11:30 a.m.–5 p.m. 15800 Grove Circle N. Maple Grove; eggrollqueenfoodtruck@gmail.com
To have your event considered: email woodburymag@localmedia.co by the 10th of the month three months prior to publication. Please note that some events/dates and even some business operations may have changed since these pages went to print. Please visit affiliated websites for updates.
Community Awards Gala 2025
The Woodbury Area Chamber of Commerce held its annual Community Awards Gala, and guests stepped into an evening at an enchanted garden for a night of celebration. The event included a social hour, wine pull, silent auction and the ever-popular dessert auction. Honorees included: Business: OffiCenters Woodbury; Educator: Karley Mejia, Woodbury High School; Everyday Hero: Shawn Sorrell; Public Safety: Woodbury Police Officer James Stoffel; Nonprofit: American Legion Woodbury Post 501; and Lifetime Achievement: Clint Gridley, City of Woodbury.
To have your event considered: send date, time, location, photos, contact information and a brief description of the event to woodburymag@localmedia.co.
Photos: Tom Dunn Photography GALLERY
Easter Morning
A photographer captures the spirit of the season.
“I woke up on Easter morning to the most unique colors in the sky I have ever seen. Although I initially wanted to sleep in, my next thought was to grab the camera and walk down to the pond to capture it,” says amateur photographer Patrick Donaghy. “I loved how the pond was so still and was like a mirror for the beautiful colors.
“For me, the colors and the overall scene perfectly captured the spirit of the Easter season,” Donaghy says. —Hailey Almsted
To view other Focus on Woodbury photo contest winners, visit woodburymag.com.
Photographer: Patrick Donaghy
Title: Easter Sunrise
Equipment: Canon R3 with Canon RF 15-35mm F2.8 lens
Location: Prestwick Golf Course
Category: Seasons Award: Third Place
life. at your summit.
