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

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 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...

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...

Travel

Up North

Enjoy a weekend escape to Grand View Lodge, where history and rustic charm meets modern luxury Article by Lauren Beaubaire Pack your bags. We’re heading up north and spending the weekend at Grand View Lodge. This historic Minnesota resort on Gull Lake blends rustic charm with modern luxury and is just a car ride away. No passports. No airport. No stress.  “Guests step into a legacy of leisure at Grand View Lodge,” says Moe Beyer, Corporate Director of Communications. “The resort offers luxury...

Sports + Recreation

More Than Golf

Inside Prior Lake’s New Go-To Gathering Spot Article by Amanda Wagner | Photography by Blake Ziemer and Jake Miller When Nate Swenson talks about LaunchPad Golf, his excitement is immediate and contagious. After eight years with the Minnesota Vikings, including time working closely with the Mystic Lake account, Nate recently stepped into his role as general manager just as LaunchPad Golf opened its doors in Prior Lake this past fall. “It felt like the right move at the right time,” Nate says...

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...