Life + Culture

Life Minded

Sisterhood of the Traveling Plans Article by Jen Fortner In my experience, traveling with children isn’t relaxing. If you have very young children now and cling to the hope that it will be so much better in five years when you don’t have to remember sippy cups, packets of squeezable applesauce, and extra clothes to tote around…you are lying to yourself. Those items get replaced with trendy water bottles, a giant tumbleweed of charging cords, and extra clothes to tote around. I’ve been carrying...

April 2024

Life + Culture

Lessons from Leaders

Gain insight into the words of wisdom these local trailblazers would give to their younger selves Article by Emily McKeever | Photography by Maria Claire Photography If you’re looking for a bit of inspirational wisdom this season by way of advice from exceptional leading women who empower, impact, and elevate, you don’t have to look very far. If you call Waconia home, you’re well aware, but if you’re new here, welcome and allow us to introduce you to just a sampling of the fuel that propels...

April 2024

Life + Culture

Gifts from the Heart

A guide to heartfelt Mother’s Day gifts for every mom Article by Emily McKeever They say it’s the thought that counts, and that’s true… for the most part. Gifts that acknowledge what truly moves a person go a long way as well. This year, put extra thought into Mom for Mother’s Day, you know, like she’s done for you for a million years, by buying her a gift that aligns with her passions and interests. Not all moms are created equal, so why would your gift be? There’s the outdoorsy mom, the...

April 2024

Shopping

She Means Business

How local women entrepreneurs cultivate a landscape of leadership together Article by Emily McKeever We live in a vibrant community of promising youth, hard-working families, and strong local business owners; all of whom contribute to elevating our little corner of the world to its full potential. This successful combination of elements makes Waconia just that, successful. They also make it strong and mutually supportive, creating ample space for all who contribute. One of those spaces that’s...

April 2024

Local Services

Hitting Like a Girl

Why Dr. Jessica Radtke Maltez decided to step into the ring Article by Lutie Ronglien | Photography by Graham Payne Miller “You run like a girl.”  “You hit like a girl.” Remember when that was said as an insult? Today, Dr. Jessica Radtke Maltez would say, “Thank you.”  She’s been running and hitting for years, and she’s proud of it.  Jessica, owner of Victoria Veterinary Hospital, is a multifaceted woman. She is not only a busy veterinarian, business owner, mother, and wife but also...

April 2024

Health + Wellness

The Season of Sniffles

Let Waconia Women’s Health help you ‘spring’ from the discomforts of seasonal allergies Article by Emily McKeever Many things scream spring in Minnesota - “Play ball!” “The landscaper’s here.” “Have you seen my rain boots?” but for several of us, “Ah-Ah-Ah-Choo!” is the loudest. Itchy, watery eyes, scratchy throat, and sneezing can take the buzz out of this beautiful season. What if we told you certain foods can ease the frustrating symptoms of seasonal allergies or that treating your gut...

April 2024

Education

Investing in Education

Crown College's Commitment to Academic Excellence Article by Amanda Wagner | Photography by Maria Claire Photography In the ever-evolving landscape of higher education, where trends shift like the wind, institutions must adapt swiftly to remain meaningful and impactful. Crown College, located in rural Saint Bonifacius, Minnesota, finds itself not only navigating these trends but thriving amidst them. Imagine stepping onto its campus, where every corner resonates with the hum of eager minds...

March 2024

Finance + Legal Services

The Road to Financial Freedom

Thrivent Freedom Financial Group shares how to take the first steps to invest in your future Article by Lutie Ronglien It’s never too late to start.  That’s what Martin Cole at Thrivent Freedom Financial Group of Waconia says. As a certified financial planner, Martin knows how important it is to begin saving for the future, no matter how small the amount.  Nearly 70% of Americans don’t feel they’re on track with their retirement accounts, according to a September 2023 article from U.S. News...

March 2024

Food + Beverage

What’s New in Waconia

Introducing Molly Krinhop, the new owner and visionary of St. Boni Bistro Article by Emily McKeever | Photography by Maria Claire Photography Products of the 80s and those younger who appreciate the classics are familiar with the iconic series Cheers . The one where everyone yells, “Norm!” as the quippy regular walks in and takes a seat on his well-worn bar stool. The catchy opening theme goes, “Sometimes you wanna go where everybody knows your name, and they’re always glad you came.” It’s...

March 2024

Style + Beauty

Closet Currency

Eleece Pink of The Stash shares her wisdom on why enhancing your wardrobe is a form of self-investment and how to go about it. Article by Emily McKeever There are many investments in life you can seek to enhance your future; some involve a hefty sum of money and planning, and others are executed on a smaller scale with a little more flexibility and a lot less cash. When you invest in your home, you’re enhancing its resale value and your enjoyment; if you decide to back a small business, you’re...

March 2024