Finance + Legal Services

Elevated Living at The Otto

Flexible spaces, resort-style amenities, and a community that makes every day an investment in your well-being Article by Emily McKeever Home is where the heart is, and it should also be where comfort and connection thrive. One step inside The Otto apartments in Waconia and you’ll feel the warmth of refined living, intentionally curated for those who expect more from where they live. You’ll experience the ease of a low-maintenance life, without the demands and commitment of homeownership, all...

Fitness

Driving Change

Investing in the community one swing at a time — at the Timber Creek Women’s Charity Golf Tournament Article by Emily McKeever As snow melts into puddles and puddles fade back into sidewalks, it’s only natural for summer to be on our minds. As you start filling your warm-weather calendar, you'll want to leave July 11th open for an experience that makes a real difference. It’s a day when communities join hands, connections are made, generosity takes center stage, and some really great golf is...

Home Services

Small Changes, Stunning Yard

Simple ways to spruce up your landscaping this spring from Waconia Landscaping Company Article by Emily McKeever They say you never get a second chance to make a first impression — and when it comes to your home, it doesn’t begin at the front door; it begins at the curb. Justin Goche, owner of Waconia Landscaping Company, says the shape, style, and texture of your front walk guide guests through a space that welcomes them into the home and sets the tone for everything that follows. “As we...

Life + Culture

Calling Waconia Home

Local partners share what makes this community feel like home Article by Emily McKeever Home means different things to different people: safety, belonging, connection, and so much more. One visit to Waconia’s charming streets, and anyone will want to scoop up the nearest piece of real estate, if they haven’t already. One reason Waconia is such an amazing place to live is simple: the people are proud to call it theirs. Why? Let them tell you.  Agency Owner and President at Dawson & Associates...

Life + Culture

Wilford: Redefining the Residential Experience

Inside Waconia’s newest upscale apartment community Article by Alison Lee | Photography by Nicole Jean - Photographic Artist Location is everything. It subtly shapes our lives through the opportunities we find, the access we have, the perspectives we gain, and the identities we form. It’s a powerful force we rarely notice until we set two places side by side to compare. It’s also what guides us to choose that one place we’re proud to call home. This spring, Waconia will open its doors to...

Home + Design

Beautiful Spaces You’ll Love to Live In

Discover why the community trusts Iron River Construction for expert remodeling Article by Emily McKeever You wouldn’t be a Minnesotan if the idea of spring drawing near didn’t bring about a feeling of increased energy, and after the amount of snow we’ve had this year, a little excitement and wild abandon. As the fresh new season arrives, we create lists to better ourselves, and while we’re at it, finally decide to bring that long-planned house project to life. For over 25 years, the team at...

Home Services

Home Trends in 2026

Christy Haasken Schuler from Chestnut Realty shares what’s shaping homes in the year ahead. Article by Lauren Beaubaire New year. New home trends. From interior design shifts to a changing housing market, we chat with Christy Haasken Schuler, Realtor, Appraiser, GRI at Chestnut Realty, on what home trends you can expect to see in 2026.  In terms of interior design? We’re going cozy, comfy-chic in 2026. “Warm tones and textured layers are the dominating home design trends that we’re seeing...

Home Services

Love Your Water, Love Your Home

Home show season is here, and for many homeowners it marks the start of big plans: updating a bathroom, refreshing a kitchen, or investing in new appliances and fixtures. While finishes and features get most of the attention, one of the smartest ways to protect those investments often goes overlooked: better water.Scale, corrosion and buildup cost homeowners way more than prevention. Hard water can shorten the life of plumbing, stain surfaces and reduce the efficiency of appliances you’ve just...

Life + Culture

Local Love

Your source for thoughtful Valentine’s Day finds with a hometown touch Article by Emily McKeever Valentine’s Day, Christmas’s sweet and sparkly little sister, is coming just around the strawberry nugget-filled bend — and we know you’re ready to shower your special someone with a little indulgence. If you’re feeling like your gift-giving creativity is running low, we’ve got you covered. This gift roundup of unique and memorable ideas from our local businesses is here to help! You focus on the...

Wellness

Your Sanctuary Awaits

Step into Awaken Aesthetics and Wellness for a boutique approach that’s all about you Article by Emily McKeever | Photography by Lexi Renae Studios You take a deep cleansing breath as your lungs fill with gentle air. You exhale and look around, letting the tranquility and inviting warmth sink in. You’re light, you’re refreshed, and perfectly balanced. This restorative experience could be of an idyllic summer day, curling up with a good book and soft music — or it could be a visit to Awaken...