Style + Beauty

Fall into Fashion

We gather great pieces from local boutiques to create a few fantastic fall looks Article by Nattacia Bailey When it comes to Waconia women... they sure know how to shop! The peaceful and peppy little city of Waconia is home to a handful of local boutiques that offer exclusive clothing brands as well as stylish home decor. With the seasons changing and the air becoming more brisk (thank heavens!), it’s time to start thinking about transitioning our closets again. What better way to inspire...

August 2024

Life + Culture

Life Minded

No Shirt. No Shoes. Still Service. Article by Jen Fortner My mother is something of a fashion icon. Everyone who knows her knows this. Even some people who don’t know her feel this way. If I ever lost her in a department store, it was because she was busy telling strangers in dressing rooms what suited them best. They ask, and she does not disappoint. She holds little back in her style opinions, and she is always right. Her eye is so legendary I had a childhood friend say she manifests my...

August 2024

Auto + Marine

Welcome to Paradise

Set sail in style and experience the luxury and charm of Paradise Charter Cruises Article by Emily McKeever Who doesn’t like a party? Ask around, and you’ll likely find very few people in the ‘no’ column on that survey. Elements that contribute to the perfect shindig where loved ones gather and memories are made include decorations, food, libations, entertainment… and, don’t forget, ambiance. What’s better than toasting Tom and Sue in a swanky hotel’s gala room as they celebrate their 50th...

August 2024

Life + Culture

Hurray! It’s Nickle Dickle Day!

Support local businesses (and snag a great deal!) on Waconia’s favorite day of the year Article by Emily McKeever A fun little riddle for you… what brings tens of thousands of people to Waconia, features an exciting race of costumed rubber ducks, has been known to showcase all things pickled, boasts a park full of arts and crafts and food vendors, and is easily one of the community’s (and beyond) favorite days of the year? You guessed it– It’s Nickle Dickle Day! For over six decades, this...

August 2024

Home + Design

Chic and Mortar

Fall into comfort and style with the latest decor trends of the autumn season Article by Alison Lee Everybody knows that September is the unofficial start of a new season. Even though the warmer temps are still present, the air feels a little different. Kids are back in school. Fall sports have started. And the return to an established routine has many families breathing a sigh of relief. This is also the time for the seasonal swap with home décor and a style that echoes the feeling of fall...

August 2024

Shopping

Must-Have Men’s Fashion Essentials 

Shop these local businesses to get Fall-ready in style  Article by Emily McKeever Infinity Diamond Jewelers Watch Check the time in style with a watch from Infinity Diamond Jewelers. You’ll find an array of brands, sizes, and designs at this experienced and passionate jeweler.  Sling and Stone Solid Cologne Step into Magnolia North Boutique for Sling and Stone solid cologne. Choose from a handful of one-of-a-kind scents in this unique twist on traditional cologne.  Wardrobe Refresh When...

August 2024

Entertainment

It’s Not Just Babbling

How Waconia native Autumn Ness Translates Toddler Talk into Theater Magic Article by Lutie Ronglien Do you know a toddler? Have you tried to communicate with them? Then you know the meaning of the word “babble.” That incoherent, jumbled-together sound that resembles but isn’t quite a word. It’s amazing how somehow we learn to translate this foreign language after spending some time with them.  “Blippety-blue? Oh, you’re hungry.”  “Meeepphhh? Ah, you want your blankie.”  “Gippooomy? Yes...

July 2024

Professional Services

The Dog Days of Summer

Keeping your pets happy and healthy during summer’s hottest days with advice from Victoria Veterinary Hospital… and some exciting news too! Article by Emily McKeever Welcome to the dog days of summer when the air’s a little thicker and the sun’s position, still proudly high in the sky, reminds us that it ain’t over ’til we accept the inevitable and finally turn on the heat. The kids are home full time, which means days have been overflowing with sunscreen and loud Mom voices yelling, “Stay on...

July 2024

Food + Beverage

The Freshman Flight

Three keys that will enhance your college student’s first-year experience Article by Alison Lee The days are long but the years are short. It’s an adage that speaks a giant truth. Eighteen years hardly feels like enough time before parents find themselves swapping out cribs and bottles for caps and gowns. For many, this end also marks a new beginning. Sending their beloved baby off to college for the first time.  College is an exciting new adventure for the student. It’s a time to dream...

July 2024

Life + Culture

Life Minded

The Garage Diaries Article by Jen Fortner Grad party season has come and gone. I love grad party season. No better way to catch up with 300 people you’ve been trying to have coffee with for a year. Some were elaborate affairs with food trucks and event centers and multiple photo collages. Some had guest books and commemorative frames to sign and school color-themed balloon arches. Others were in homes or in driveways with tents and homemade treats and clever designated spots to take pictures...

July 2024