The Magic of the Season in Minnetonka
The holiday season is here. That feeling of anticipation and excitement that we’ve waited for all year is all around us. As the twinkle lights go up and our calendars fill with gatherings, I’m reminded that the true magic of the holidays lies in connection — the moments we pause to celebrate one another, our community, and the stories that make Lake Minnetonka shine.
This month, we share ideas for giving this holiday season with our local Gift Guide. From lake-life essentials and stylish holiday attire to cozy treats for homebodies, foodie-approved goodies, and even something for your four-legged family members, we’ve got you covered! We’ve included recipes passed down through the families of many of our advertising partners. Rebecca shares the story of the Excelsior tradition of the Giving Tree. And Jen ponders if she can keep up with Martha Stewart this holiday season, and reminds us to just pencil in joy in our overbooked calendars.
Thank you for another incredible year of supporting local. Whether you’re celebrating with loved ones near or far, I hope this issue inspires joy, gratitude, and a renewed sense of community as we step into a bright new year.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year—from our family to yours.
DAVE ROBERTSON, PUBLISHER @LAKEMINNETONKALIFESTYLE
December 2025
PUBLISHER
Dave Robertson | dave.robertson@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Lauren Beaubaire | lauren.beaubaire@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Kate Munson | kate.munson@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Jen Fortner, Rebecca Hahn, Lauren Beaubaire, Kendra Johnson, Sydney Kate Lewis
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Rebecca Hahn, Kate Ann Photography, Maria Claire Media, Janie Jones
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Zach Miller
LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
inside the issue
We
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1-7: It was a great time on Lake Minnetonka as all the west-metro publishers and City Lifestyle partners came aboard Paradise Charter Cruises for an unforgettable appreciation cruise! Photography by Kate Ann Photography
Top Dog Country Club Celebrates 25 years
Congratulations to Top Dog Country Club on 25 years! Jean Stelten Beuning founded Top Dog 25 years ago, creating the first-ever vacation club for dogs and forever changing an industry. Built on the idea of extending top-tier hospitality to both dogs and their owners, Top Dog’s ‘club med’ style vacation ensures your pets receive the best of the best, helping you rest easy when you travel, knowing your best friend is in the best of hands. topdogcountryclub.com
Haus of Rowe Interiors
Haus of Rowe Interiors is honored to be recognized as a finalist in the prestigious Midwest Home Design Awards. Known for their refined yet livable aesthetic, the boutique design studio creates spaces that blend modern sensibility with timeless warmth. Each project reflects a deep understanding of how people live, layering organic materials and tailored details to craft homes that feel elevated, intentional, and quietly luxurious. hausofroweinteriors.com
ModernWell Wayzata Grand Opening
ModernWell Wayzata celebrated their Grand Opening this past fall with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and an open house for the community to come tour this gorgeous new space in the heart of downtown Wayzata! Built for focus, connection, and creativity, this coworking space by the lake has all the calming, zen vibes that make work feel a little more like wellness. ModernWell offers both private and communal coworking options, as well as ongoing professional and community engagement opportunities. modernwell.com
Photography by Top Dog Country Club
Photography by Taylor Hall O’Brien
DAY
G IFT G U
I D E
The holidays are here, and to make sure your season stays merry and bright, we’re helping out with the gift list. So, forget the stress of holiday shopping. We’ve rounded up fun, festive ideas for every personality. And the best part? These gifts are local finds, so not only are you supporting the community, you don’t have to go far to score the perfect gift for everyone on your list. From lake-life essentials and stylish holiday attire to cozy treats for homebodies, foodie-approved goodies, and even something for your four-legged family members, we’ve got you covered. ‘Tis the season to deck the halls, stuff the stockings, and snag gifts that actually get used (and loved)!
WE’VE ROUNDED UP PERFECT PICKS FOR EVERYONE ON YOUR LIST
ARTICLE BY LAUREN BEAUBAIRE
SPAVIA DAY SPA
Give the gift of a luxury spa experience with a Spavia gift card. They can choose from relaxing massages and body treatments to infrared sauna treatment and dry salt therapy. minnetonkamn.spaviadayspa.com
BELLA ON THE BAY
Wrap up a Bella gift card for the person who would love the ultimate pampering. They can enjoy a fresh cut and color, facials, nail treatments, body treatments, and more from the incredible Bella team. bellaonthebay.com
SANCTUARY FLOAT SPA
Experience ultra-relaxing, zero-gravity floating effortlessly in warm, mineral-rich water. Pick up a gift card for the person on your gift list who would enjoy this truly unique escape. sanctuaryfloatspa.com
MODERNROOTS
Their handcrafted, non-toxic skincare is pure indulgence. From lush bar soaps and silky lotions to ultra-hydrating moisturizers, your giftee can treat themselves from head to toe. modernroots.org
LAKE EFFECT
Shop cute nautical-themed home decor, clothes, items for your boat, and so much more. We especially love their “It’s a Good Day to Drink on a Boat” handbag cooler. shoplakeeffect.com
FLEURISH
You’ll find Lake Life drinkware, gorgeous cheese boards, blankets, totes, and our personal favorite, their customized Lake Minnetonka Anchor towel for those fun lake days. fleurishllp.com
LAGO
Wine lovers NEED this gift. LAGO created specialty boating coasters designed to keep your wine glass steady while you cruise the lake. No spills, no stress, just smooth sipping. Because let’s be honest… good wine is way too precious to waste! passthelago.com
LAKE LIFE SHOP
Their collection of lake-inspired apparel, accessories, and decor will definitely float your boat. With countless Lake Minnetonka-themed gear, this online shop is packed with fun finds any lake lover will adore. lakelifeshop.com
FOR THE FOODIE FOR THE FASHIONISTA
THE ARBORETUM APPLEHOUSE
Packed with local and seasonal culinary delights, fill your gift basket with homemade apple butter, local honey, artisanal pastas and dumplings, bread mixes, pies, ciders, and so many more gourmet goodies. arb.umn.edu/AppleHouse
RED COW
For those who love food but hate cooking, a Red Cow gift card is the perfect present—great burgers, great cocktails, great wine and beer, and a new, mouthwatering brunch menu. redcowmn.com
FIVE SWANS
This beautiful shop is filled with beautiful tableware, unique pottery, gorgeous serving pieces, and premium cookware that’ll delight the culinary connoisseur on your list. fiveswans.com
NOTHING BUNDT CAKES
For the sweet tooth in your life, nothing beats a gift card to Nothing Bundt Cakes. They will thank you for treating them to their tasty bundts and bundlets. nothingbundtcakes.com
J.H. & SONS
The stylish guy on your gift list will love a piece from J.H. & Sons. The staff can help you pick out a silk tie, accessories, high-quality button-downs, or even a custom-made suit. jhandsons.com
AMORE & FEDE
Owner Debbie and her daughter, Brittany, have a knack for curating the most irresistible finds in their boutique. This time of year, we especially love snagging their latest cozy loungewear— perfect for staying toasty and effortlessly chic. amorefede.com
OOH LA LA BOUTIQUE
This charming spot is brimming with stylish apparel and accessories, but don’t miss their standout Minnesota merch. That ivory Minnesota Social Club Crew sweatshirt? Yeah, it’s calling our name. oohlalaboutiquemn.com
TAVOR
TaVor makes winterwear effortlessly elegant. Their cozy, trendy plaid and flannel shackets are the perfect item to keep your fashionista toasty warm. shoptavor.com
Anna Ko Photography Anna Ko Photography
VI BEAUTY LAB
For the skincare-obsessed, Vi offers everything from brows and waxing to facials and peels. Give the gift of glow with a Vi Beauty gift card. They’ll be shining bright this season! vibeautylab.com
JETT BEAUTY
While best known for their stunning lash work, the Jett Beauty team also works their magic with makeup, permanent cosmetics, brows, and more. Treat your favorite makeup maven to a special service at Jett. jettbeauty.com
18|8 FINE MEN’S SALON
Gents enjoy some pampering too. Gift your guy a classic haircut, straight shave, facial, waxing, or a therapeutic scalp treatment. eighteeneight.com/wayzata-mn
FINALE’ HAIR REMOVAL AND SKIN CARE
Never having to pull out a razor again? Now that’s a gift that keeps on giving. The team at Finale’ specializes in electrolysis, laser hair removal, and photorejuvenation skin treatments. finalemn.com
ALL SEASONS WILD BIRD STORE
For the person who likes to enjoy nature from the comfort of their couch, wrap up a bird feeder with seed or pick one of their cute bird houses or baths. wildbirdstore.com
EXCELSIOR BAY BOOKS
From the latest bestsellers to great reads for kids, the staff here will help you find the perfect book for the bookworm on your list. excelsiorbaybooks.net
GENERAL STORE OF MINNETONKA
You’re sure to find endless gift ideas here, but for the homebody, head straight to their game and puzzle section to snag their “Don’tcha Know Minnesota Trivia” game or their “Hotdishes of Minnesota” puzzle. generalstoreofminnetonka.com
SERIFINA II
Get one of their cozy sweatshirt-material robes with a personalized monogram of the lucky recipient’s name. Oh, and they also sell matching sweatsuits! @_serifina2 on Instagram.
FOR
NORTHERN DRIFT
OUTDOORSY TYPE FOR THE FOUR-LEGGED FAMILY MEMBER
They have great outdoor apparel for the person on your list who always seems to be hiking over the weekend. And get the little ones started early with a cozy sweater printed with LAKE MTKA. northerndriftco.com
THE LAKES RUNNING CO.
With the best brands in running shoes, apparel, and accessories, let the experts here help you pick out a great gift, or grab a gift card so your giftee can choose their own. lakesrun.com
GEAR WEST
Find all the winter sport gear at Gear West. Alpine skis, cross-country skis, snowboards, bikes, and every accessory your outdoor enthusiast would need! gearwest.com
THE LANDING SHOP
Handmade by Minnetonka residents ages 55 and older, their hats, mittens, and scarves are perfect for keeping the person on your list warm all winter. minnetonkamn.gov/ our-city/senior-services/the-landing-shop
TOP DOG COUNTRY CLUB
Treat your pup to a fantastic vacation at Top Dog when you head out on your own holiday getaway, or a chance to learn new tricks with a top-notch training session. topdogcountryclub.com
FIDO’S PANTRY
Fido deserves the best, and Fido’s Pantry delivers. Their specialty focuses on pet nutrition, offering a curated selection of high-quality products for unique dietary needs. fidospantry.com
WAGMORE
Pamper your pup with Wagmore’s mobile grooming services and give them the spa day they deserve. Because a wellgroomed dog is a happy dog. wagmoreco.com
PET STUFF
Treats, toys, and so much more! Pet Stuff has all the best stuff for your furry family member. Pick up a little something extra for your pup this holiday season. petstufftonka.com
A Little Tree, A Big Difference
Cathy and Tom Lingo, owners of Excelsior’s Garden Patch, providing trees for the past 15 years with Fire Marshall Kellie Murphy-Ringate and Andy Heim
Jon Lovald, MACV Chief of Operations, Kellie MurphyRingate, Gary Ringate, Mike Seifert, Barrie Seifert, and Andy Hein. Toy Drive for Children of Veterans
HOW “THE GIVING TREE PROJECT” IN EXCELSIOR IS DELIVERING HOLIDAY CHEER TO VETERANS AND FAMILIES IN NEED
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY REBECCA HAHN
It’s beginning to feel a lot like Christmas, especially now since Excelsior’s main street has between 20 and 25 new residents, each of them waiting anxiously for a visit from you and a few ornaments that you won’t be needing. I am talking about the small, 3-to-5-foot balsam trees that “with your help” will be decorated by the public, bagged and tied up by volunteers of the Ridgewood Church, and then delivered by the Excelsior Fire District to a formerly homeless Veteran and his family!
In 1996, a group of people from the Excelsior-Lake Minnetonka Chamber of Commerce and the Excelsior Fire District gathered at a coffee shop on Oak Street in Excelsior to talk about a way to give Christmas trees to those in need. That was the beginning of the “Giving Tree Project” 29 years ago. On Friday, November 28th the trees, which have been purchased from the Garden Patch at a discounted price and donated by the main financial sponsor, Gary’s First Class Car Care, are then placed outside Excelsior businesses all along Water Street, waiting to be adorned with donated decorations from local organizations and individuals.
The “Giving Tree Project” beneficiary is the Minnesota Assistance Council for Veterans (MACV), who builds and donates approximately 20-25 new homes each year to Veterans who are homeless in the Twin Cities area. The merchants and business owners provide electricity for the lights and give the trees TLC when needed. The Lions Club donates the tree stands, and then, until December 9th, each tree is gifted with new or gently used ornaments. Handmade tree trimmings are always received with gratitude. Gary Ringate, the Mayor of Excelsior, says, “‘The Giving Tree Project’ is one that begins here in the village of Excelsior, and twelve days later finishes up at the Target Center, but it does take a village to pull it off!”
In conjunction with these two benefits, a third benefit, “Donations and Toy Drive,” will gladly be accepting unwrapped toys to be given to this year’s recipients on December 10th. You may place these ornaments on a tree yourself or drop them off at Gary’s First Class Car Care at 366 Highway #7 or at the Excelsior Fire Station #1 at 24100 Smithtown Road; both locations are in Excelsior. Donated gifts are also welcomed at these two locations from November 28th through December 9th.
For many families here in Minnesota, 2025 has been a difficult year to keep their spirits up. For each person waiting in line at a coffee shop, there’s someone somewhere sitting on a cold bench without a cup of coffee to warm his nearly frozen hands. As Christmas draws nearer, we are reminded of “how the Holidays used to feel.” Back in the days when we perhaps took for granted the presence of our family members and the blessings of good friends and good health. Suddenly, when they are no longer with us, we must look for a way to bring joy to others, even if only a shared smile to a stranger. My mother taught me that it’s a greater feeling to give than to receive. As a child, I thought she had that one backwards. As an adult, I know she got it right! The holidays can be bittersweet due to the absence of loved ones. Adopting one of these trees to decorate in memory of a special person can be cathartic.
“The merchants and business owners provide electricity for the lights and give the trees TLC when needed. The Lions Club donates the tree stands, and then, until December 9th, each tree is gifted with new or gently used ornaments. Handmade tree trimmings are always received with gratitude.”
For more information on how to adopt a tree, reach out to Fire Marshall, Kellie Murphy-Ringate, at kmurphyringate@ excelsiorfire.org for details. For additional information, go to the website: www.excelsiorfire.org
Similar to the Grinch, sadness can sneak up on us at any time. One moment we’re fine, and the next we feel alone or unseen. Finding someone to do something with seems too great a task. Yet a tiny voice nags you to “do something or go somewhere!” At times like these, I am remembering the lyrics to the song “Downtown,” written by British composer Tony Hatch and sung by Petula Clark in 1964. The song is all about trying to “give yourself a chance to live a better life.” Perhaps these lyrics may urge you to go “Downtown in Excelsior to hang an ornament on a tree?”
“And you may find somebody kind to help and understand you? Someone who is just like you and needs a gentle hand to guide them along. So maybe I’ll see you there, we can forget all our troubles, forget all our cares, and go downtown. Things will be great when you’re downtown. Don’t wait a minute more, downtown. There’s a Christmas tree waiting for you!”
PARALYSIS
SO IS THE $250 BILLION THAT’S SITTING IN DONOR ADVISED FUNDS – AND NOT BEING SPENT.
We can help with both. That’s the ADVISED part of Donor Advised Funds, and it happens to be exactly what we do—and what our community needs. Get started by opening or transferring your DAF today.
TASTE OF THE HOLIDAYS
One of the best parts about the holidays? Food. Really, really good food. It’s the time of year when you pull out the special recipes that you don’t usually enjoy during the rest of the year. The ones that fill your home with warmth, nostalgia, and a little extra holiday magic.
We love these family recipe traditions, so we asked a few of our partners to share theirs—and they did not disappoint. Pull out your apron and bring your appetite because one of these recipes might just become part of your own family holiday traditions!
We asked our partners to share their most-loved holiday recipes— and the dishes are as heartwarming as they are delicious.
ARTICLE BY LAUREN BEAUBAIRE
A STICKNEY HOLIDAY TRADITION
The Stickney family not only works together at Stickney Real Estate, helping Minnesotans find their dream homes, but they also cook together. And when the holidays roll around, they pull out one of their favorite old family recipes: Minestrone Soup. This decadent, hearty, and delicious dish lands on the Stickney table each year, and they’ve generously shared the recipe so we can enjoy this tasty family tradition too.
MINESTRONE SOUP
Ingredients
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 2 medium carrots, chopped
• 2 celery ribs, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon sea salt, plus more to taste
• Freshly ground pepper to taste
• 3 garlic cloves, grated
• 1 28-ounce can diced tomatoes
• 1½ cups cooked white beans or kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup chopped green beans
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ¾ cup small pasta shells
• ½ cup chopped fresh parsley
• Red pepper flake to taste
• Grated parmesan cheese optional for serving
Directions
1. Heat the oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, celery, salt, and several grinds of black pepper, and cook, stirring occasionally, for 8 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften.
2. Add the garlic, tomatoes, beans, green beans, broth, bay leaves, oregano, and thyme. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes.
3. Stir in the pasta and cook, uncovered, for 10 more minutes, until the pasta is cooked through.
4. Season to taste and serve with parsley, red pepper flakes, and parmesan, if desired.
FROM THE LADIES AT AMORE & FEDE: NANA’S BELOVED ITALIAN PIZZELLES
“Meet Mary Lou Fox, aka Foxie or Nana, Brittany’s grandma, and my mother-in-law,” says Debbie Slusar, owner of Amore & Fede. “Nana has been making one of our favorite cookies for over 60 years. This Preese family tradition goes back to her mother and her great-grandma making them.
“As a Christmas tradition, Nana makes Pizzelles, an authentic Italian cookie in red, white, and green. She said it is time-consuming, but the pizzelle baker makes beautiful Italian snowflake cookies. It is a fragile cookie, so be careful taking them off the baker.
“These cookies are great with coffee, on their own, or with ice cream. Nana says they are a good gift to give, and she makes over 200 at a time. You can come and sample one of our favorite cookies at Amore & Fede on Thursday, December 4th, from 10am-7pm during our Customer Appreciation Day. Nana will be serving them up along with other treats and hot beverages. Merry Christmas!”
PIZZELLE RECIPE
Ingredients
• 6 eggs
• 1 cup butter
• ½ cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons anise seed (mix or beat together)
• 4 teaspoons baking powder
• 3½ cups flour (mix together and then add to batter and blend dough)
Directions
1. Heat Pizzelle maker until hot.
2. Add one teaspoon of batter to each side of heated Pizzelle. Bake for a minute, and check for desired color. Bake longer if needed for desired color, but do not burn them.
3. Remove gently with a spatula. Place on a flat surface to cool.
4. Add food coloring to separate dough to make green or red ones.
Pizzelle Iron can be purchased on Amazon for about $30-$50!
FROM SANDY MAHONEY AT HIGHMARK BUILDERS: A FAMILYFAVORITE SHOWSTOPPER
“There’s nothing better than time with family and friends – the best gift of all!” says Sandy Mahoney, Project Development at Highmark.
“I’m number 11 of 12 children, and we love to entertain and share recipes with each other. While Christmas is all about sweets and yummy treats (and I love to eat them), I also enjoy creating unique appetizers and entrees.
“Always a showstopper: Scallops Grand Marnier.
“I certainly don’t claim to be a culinary genius, but this meal is outstanding! It’s all about the sauce. It’s memorable and pairs so nicely with fish and other seafood. And by the way, lobster is a favorite with this sauce. Not a seafood lover? Give the sauce a try on chicken or veal.”
SCALLOPS GRAND MARNIER
Ingredients
• 1 pound scallops, halved, if large
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• ½ cup minced shallots
• 1½ cups chicken broth
• ½ cup Grand Marnier
• 1 cup whipping cream
• 1 teaspoon grated orange rind
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 1/3 cup orange juice
Directions
1. Season scallops with salt and pepper to taste.
2 . In a large skillet, cook scallops in 1½ tablespoons butter over medium-high heat for 1 minute, stirring frequently.
3. Cover the skillet and cook for 2 minutes, or until they are opaque and just firm, stirring occasionally.
4. With a slotted spoon, transfer scallops to a large plate and keep warm. Add shallots to skillet, and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add broth and dry white wine, orange juice, and Grand Marnier, and bring to a boil. Boil mixture until it is reduced to 2/3 cup. Add cream, and simmer until lightly thickened.
6. Wisk in remaining butter, orange rind, and lemon juice. Add salt and pepper to taste.
7. Pour any accumulated juices from the scallops (or alternate seafood, poultry) into the sauce.
8. To really impress, divide scallops among 4 coquille shells and spoon sauce over the scallops.
Serves 4
I used to pore over the Martha Stewart Living magazine. I even preferred the magazine to the show. I loved the beautiful photos of her elaborate tablescapes. The layers of rich colors. Mustard-toned velvet napkins tucked into copper napkin rings on
HOLIDAZE
burlap placemats with terracotta dishes. Tiny place card holders made out of pinecones she gathered from the yard. I loved the step-by-step instructions on how to make a spring wreath, a summer table runner, and roasted game hen for a dinner party of twelve. I loved to find out how many things could be crafted of chicken wire, and then I never made a single thing out of chicken wire. But my favorite part
Life Minded
of the magazine was the calendar. On the inside cover was a monthly view of Martha’s plans and projects. I am still a huge fan of a paper calendar since paper never lies and never crashes.
Martha’s calendar would have a day marked off for “deadheading and pruning roses” or an afternoon for “travel to Los Angeles”. And then there were days that had daunting tasks like “paint buildings in north annex” or “clean and organize kitchen pantry” or “meet contractor for library expansion”. Those big tasks Martha set out to accomplish in two hours before “attending gala” or “speaking at founders’ luncheon” would take me four years. Even if I had her staff.
I visited a friend on the East Coast one year, and she took me on a drive past Martha’s Bedford Farm in New York. It was spectacular. Looked even more idyllic in person than in the magazine. The brick buildings. The manicured lawns. The perfectly painted fence. I oohed and aahed over it and pointed out the charming details like the color of the shingles and the
perfect symmetry of the sconces. My friend laughed. She said, “That’s the stable. Horses live there.”
Ok, so maybe Martha and I are not living parallel lives in any way, shape, or form. My calendar says things like “make dog grooming appointment” and “pick up dry cleaning” and sometimes those action items still don’t happen. It also says, “you already ordered the yearbook dummy” because one year I ordered it twice. But I admire both her transparency and ambition, putting it all out there on the published calendar. Because I’ll bet Martha follows it and gets that crap done.
I like the spirit of reserving days on the calendar for important events, especially this time of year. Because I want to do everything. The holiday shows. The holiday shopping. The Christmas markets. Seeing the reindeer. Drinking the cider. Going to the concert. The lighting displays. The hot cocoa. The decorating. The holiday lunch with old friends. All of it. But sadly, I can’t do all of it and therefore become overwhelmed with missing out.
So I have selected my top four priorities and put them on the schedule. No moving anything around unless it’s an emergency. There is a winter festival in my college town I go to with friends. It’s very Hallmark movie with student choir performances and holiday lights and me buying things I don’t need. Scheduled. Going to see the Dayton’s holiday display and pretending it’s still 1980. Scheduled. Creating winter spruce pots with friends (under heavy supervision of our Master Gardener friend). Scheduled.
And one entire day blocked off that is Martha-level ambitious. Cookie exchange. It’s happening. Bake. Invite everyone. Swap. Drink way too much coffee. Send everyone home. Take a fat nap. With any luck, I’ll have enough cookies to last until February.
Part of enjoying the season for me is carving out time to enjoy the season. Cleaning closets and the dental visit for the dog — that’s a January problem, and January can wait.
I hope everyone pencils in some joy this December!
Minded
BY JEN FORTNER
Jen Fortner is a freelance writer who enjoys asking friends and strangers far too many questions. She spends her spare time sitting in inclement weather watching youth sports, traveling, cooking, and searching for the very best baked goods. She lives in Shorewood with her husband, three children and the most spoiled dog.
COLUMN
Warm Up Your Holidays!
Snuggle in with our cutest mugs, rich hot cocoa, and sweet treats made for sharing. Because the best gifts are the cozy kind.
E R N & F A B L E
PERMANENT
Minnesota Winters Meet Their Match
How Permanent Coating Solutions keeps your floors, vehicles, and garage looking new for decades
If you’ve experienced enough Minnesota winters, you know the effect salt can have on your vehicles and even your garage floors. At some point, we all just come to accept it, but that doesn’t have to be the case.
Permanent Coating Solutions, based in Mayer, provides protective spray-on coatings. Their services include concrete floor coatings, vehicle and industrial protective coatings, and custom garage and storage cabinets.
And after 27 years of experience, Permanent Coating Solutions owner Randy Stodola knows a thing or two about the importance of protecting your floors and vehicles.
“Minnesota road de-icing agents love to deteriorate concrete. Without a good barrier between the elements and the concrete, it’s only a matter of time until it eats through the protective cream layer of the concrete. Once that happens, the popping and salt erosion will happen fast,” he says.
To avoid damage, Permanent Coating Solutions’ services help protect a wide variety of your floors and vehicles.
ARTICLE BY KENDRA JOHNSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARIA CLAIRE MEDIA
More specifically, their protective coatings can be used on garages, basements, lunch rooms, warehouses, airplane hangars, and so much more. Their spray services also protect truck beds, truck accessories, boats, horse trailers, and shower stalls, to name a few.
In other words, if you frequently walk or drive on a surface or in a vehicle, Permanent Coating Solutions can help protect it. Their coatings are available in both residential and commercial applications. The time-tested coatings can withstand steady foot and vehicle traffic and protect against road salt, moisture, freeze-thaw, UV damage, and other often-damaging winter effects — things that are difficult to avoid in Minnesota winters, no matter how many car washes you get.
One of the newest technologies in Permanent Coating Solutions’ repertoire is the Rhino “FastFloor” polyaspartic. “The new polyaspartic technology has
CONTINUED >
COATING
Permanent Coating Solutions custom garage project
SOLUTIONS
“I personally make sure every job we do is done to industry standards or better, done on time, and done on budget. I always leave the homeowner with my card and information, including my personal cell phone number.”
really changed the game. These new materials have taken the place of the old epoxy top coats. They are quick drying for a faster return to service, but are also UV stable and much more abrasion resistant.”
In addition to new technologies that offer a better product for clients, Randy says the upkeep following a coating is very minimal. Once the coating is on, nothing needs to be done except general maintenance, such as cleaning with something as simple as a mop, hot water, and some soap.
“You will be amazed at how easy it will clean up,” Randy says.
So what sets Permanent Coating Solutions apart from other companies? According to Randy, who is a certified SSPC coatings inspector, the company’s knowledge, experience, and integrity make them the best in the business.
As an owner/operator, Randy works on every single job. “I personally make sure every job we do is done to industry standards or better, done on time, and done on budget. I always leave the homeowner with my card and information, including my personal cell phone number. So there will never be a finger-pointing blame game if there ever is an issue.”
And Permanent Coating Solutions’ work speaks for itself. A few high-profile examples include:
• The floor coatings in Mayer Lutheran High School’s auditorium.
• The South Haven and St. Bonifacius Fire Department floor systems.
• The flooring in Mayer’s city hall and community center.
• The floors in J. Carver Distillery.
“But we love our residential work also. I love doing old, crappy garage floors and turning them into works of art that people are amazed by,” Randy noted.
And speaking of amazing, if you’re yet to locate the perfect present for your loved one — or yourself — this holiday season, Permanent Coating Solutions’ floor and vehicle coatings make perfect gifts, Randy said.
“Our truck bed linings come with a lifetime warranty, and most floor coating systems have 20-year warranties. How many gifts do you know that people will still enjoy 20 years down the road?”
While no one questions the importance of road salt during winter in Minnesota, it’s also no question that it can damage vehicles and floors. So instead of accepting that as fact, call Permanent Coating Solutions to protect your investments from cracks and rust. permanentcoatingsolutions.org
WINTER in a glass
HOLIDAY COCKTAILS & COZY CREATIONS
SPICED CINNAMON RUM FLIP
A luscious holiday cocktail with warming spices, rich texture, and a beautiful cinnamon garnish.
INGREDIENTS:
• 2 oz dark or spiced rum
• 3/4 oz cinnamon simple syrup
• 1 oz heavy cream
• 1 whole egg
• Dash of ground nutmeg
• Dash of vanilla extract
Garnish: cinnamon stick and a light dusting of nutmeg or cinnamon
Make Cinnamon Simple Syrup:
Combine 1/2 cup sugar, 1/2 cup water, and 2 cinnamon sticks in a saucepan. Simmer for 10 mins, let cool, and strain. Store in the fridge.
Add rum, cinnamon syrup, cream, egg, vanilla, and a pinch of nutmeg to a shaker. Shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds to emulsify the egg. Strain into a coupe or stemmed glass like the one in your photo. Top with a cinnamon stick across the rim and a dusting of nutmeg or cinnamon. Optional: Add 1/2 oz chilled espresso for a coffee kick.
FESTIVE CRANBERRY GIN FIZZ
A bright, elegant cocktail with a foamy top and a hint of holiday spirit.
INSTRUCTIONS:
INGREDIENTS:
• 2 oz gin
• 1 oz cranberry juice
• 3/4 oz lemon juice
• 1/2 oz simple syrup
• 1 egg white
Optional: splash of sparkling water or club soda
Garnish: fresh rosemary or thyme sprig
INSTRUCTIONS:
In a cocktail shaker, combine gin, cranberry juice, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white. Shake vigorously for about 20 seconds to create the frothy top. Double strain into a chilled coupe glass to get that smooth, foamy top. Add a small splash of sparkling water if you’d like a bit of fizz. Gently place a sprig of rosemary or thyme on top of the foam.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, these holiday drinks are guaranteed to bring a little extra cheer to your cup.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
BOURBON VANILLA BEAN HOT CHOCOLATE
An ultra-creamy, chocolatey holiday drink with a hit of warm bourbon and a vanilla bean twist.
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
INGREDIENTS:
• 1/2 cup high-quality dark chocolate (chopped or chips)
• 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tbsp sugar or maple syrup
• 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
• Pinch of sea salt
• 2 oz bourbon
Topping: 4 large marshmallows
Optional garnish: grated dark chocolate, whipped cream, cinnamon
INSTRUCTIONS:
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine milk, cream, cocoa powder, sugar, vanilla, and salt. Whisk until smooth and heated through. Add chopped dark chocolate and stir constantly until melted and silky. Lower heat if needed to avoid scorching. Remove from heat, then stir in bourbon. Taste and adjust sweetness or strength to your liking. Top with marshmallows. Add whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg, and shaved chocolate. Optional: Add a pinch of cinnamon and cayenne for spicy depth
Kid-friendly version: Omit bourbon and add peppermint extract or caramel syrup instead.
IF YOU ARE READING THIS... SO IS YOUR BEST CLIENT.
2 OUT OF 3 of our readers regularly purchase from our ads.
CHRIS DENNIS
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
DECEMBER 3RD
Winter Lights: Adults’ Night Out
Minnesota Landscape Arboretum 4:30 PM
It’s the perfect night out, whether you’re on a date, with friends, or just looking for a one-of-a-kind evening under the lights. Stroll through the glowing outdoor displays, then warm up inside with a night full of music, tastings, and games. This adults-only event offers wine, beer, and mocktail tasting stations, puzzle challenge and trivia, plus dinner available from 5-8 pm—no reservation needed. https://arb.umn. edu/winterlights/adults-night
DECEMBER 6TH
Celebrating the Season in Excelsior
Downtown Excelsior | 9:00 AM
CHRIS DENNIS
BROKER/ REALTOR®
Lakes Area Realty Excelsior 37 Water Street, Excelsior
Chris@ChrisDennisGroup.com (612) 229-9322
Celebrating the Season is a month-long series of events kicking off with Small Business Saturday, the weekend after Thanksgiving, followed by seasonal activities with a focus on shopping small and local throughout the holiday season. Festivities continue each weekend until Christmas. This is a festive tradition that both the community and local businesses have come to look forward to every year. excelsiorlakeminnetonkachamber. com/celebrating-the-season/
DECEMBER 7TH
The Wayzata Design District Holiday Market
Downtown Wayzata | 10:00 AM
Enjoy a festive day of shopping and holiday cheer at the Wayzata Design District Holiday Market in downtown Wayzata. From 10am to 5pm the nine shops that are part of the Design District will be hosting a winter open house event with in-store specials, holiday music, and the chance to win a curated gift with goodies from each store!
DECEMBER 9TH
Holiday Bake & Take
Minnetonka Community Ed Center 6:00 PM
Knock out your holiday treat prep in one fun night! Make delicious baked and no-bake goodies to share (or keep for yourself!) You'll bring home 10 dozen plus a recipe booklet to use anytime. All skill levels are welcome! Sign up individually or as a group. Be sure to bring several shallow containers and wax paper for cookie storage. Register: https://minnetonka. ce.eleyo.com/course/12187/fall-2025/ holiday-bake-take
DECEMBER 11TH
"A Swingin' Little Christmas" Concert
Hopkins Center for the Arts | 7:00 PM
Enjoy a fun-filled evening with Suzy Bogguss and her Nashville band as Suzy sings Christmas classics, a few original holiday songs, and her own great hits with a "A Swingin’ Little Christmas" concert at the Hopkins Center for the Arts. Before the concert begins at 8pm you can browse the art exhibitions and enjoy social hour at 7pm with a cash bar.
DECEMBER 12TH
Green Wealth: Understanding Wealth Education Series
Green Wealth Office in Wayzata 8:00 AM
Join the Green Wealth Management Group for an insightful event designed to help you plan your legacy with confidence. As part of their Understanding Wealth Education Series, you’ll hear from trusted financial and legal professionals about optimizing your estate plan, gifting to loved ones, and supporting your favorite charities. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain practical strategies and expert guidance for building a thoughtful, lasting plan.
Want to be featured?
GET
Ask Susan
“ “ “ “ Mick:
Susan Stiles CFP, CHFC, AIF, CPFA, MBA Founder / CEO Stiles Financial Services, Inc.
Dear Readers: This month,
I’d like to talk about giving, and introduce an amazing non-profit run by musician, Mick Sterling.
Susan:
Hello Mick, thank you for joining me in this month’s “AskSusan” financial column. Our readers will really enjoy this.
Susan, thank you for having me. It really is a pleasure to be here and have the chance to tell everyone about The 30-Days Foundation, a 501 c3 non-profit based in the Twin Cities, and tell you all what motivated me to establish this 14 years ago.
Tell us how people in need can apply for a one-time, 30-day financial boost to help them get back on their feet. And if you can, please share some of the amazing results that this has had - I’ve heard a few that really touched my heart.
Susan, you’re so right. Snap the QR code to hear the rest of my interview, success stories and how to help. Plus, there’s information on our fund-raising events for 2026. Thanks.
Each year as part of our commitment to giving back to the community, we select a non-profit to sponsor and this year, Mick Sterling’s 30-Days Foundation was the recipient of our grant.
www.stilesfinancial.com
Snap To Donate
Snap For Interview
EMBRACE THE SEASON WITH THESE HOLIDAY PARTY TIPS AND TRICKS.
Good Holiday PARTY VIBES
ARTICLE BY SYDNEY KATE LEWIS
Just like that, it’s officially the most wonderful time of the year. And while you may still be stuffed from all the turkey, it’s time to start planning the ultimate holiday party. I’ve included some tips and tricks to make sure it is the absolute best time for your guests.
01
SETTING THE ATMOSPHERE IS CRUCIAL.
The mood is subjective to the type of party you’re having, though. This could include a tree in the corner, an advent wreath on the table, a menorah on the counter, or other decor aligning with your celebration. Either way, I personally recommend lighting a fire in the fireplace or playing a looping video of one on your television to create a festive and cozy ambiance.
02
HOLIDAY GAMES ACT AS ENGAGING
ENTERTAINMENT.
I once played a game where little trinkets from the Dollar Tree were wrapped in a massive ball of plastic wrap, and guests had 30 seconds to unwrap as much as possible before passing it to the next guest, claiming the unwrapped trinkets as their prize. It definitely gets the adrenaline up and provokes quite a few laughs at the random items wrapped inside.
04
THE PLAYLIST IS, IN MY OPINION, THE MOST IMPORTANT PART OF ANY HOLIDAY PARTY.
While everyone is mingling, it is crucial to have some festive background noise. And, while the classics are well, classic, here are my go-to, more modern song choices for some great holiday fun!
• “Christmas Isn’t Cancelled (Just You)” - by Kelly Clarkson
• “Drummer Boy” - by Justin Bieber
• “Fancy Like Christmas” - by Walker Hayes
• “Hot Chocolate” - by Tom Hanks (From the Polar Express soundtrack)
• “It’s Not Christmas Till Somebody Cries” - by Carly Rae Jepsen
• “Naughty List” - Liam Payne featuring Dixie
• “Redneck 12 Days of Christmas” - by Jeff Foxworthy
• “Stretchy Pants” - by Carrie Underwood
• “Text Me Merry Christmas” - by Straight No Chaser featuring Kristen Bell
• “The Chanukah Song” - by Adam Sandler
Now go create your own, special playlist, pour yourself a mug of eggnog, and dance the night away!
03
FOOD AND DRINKS PLAY A MASSIVE ROLE IN THE HOLIDAY PARTY SCENE.
Whether a simple apple dip (8 oz cream cheese, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1/2 cup toffee bits served with apple slices) or a festive drink, such as a cranberry Moscow Mule (2 oz vodka, 1 oz cranberry juice, 1/2 oz fresh lime juice, ginger beer, and fresh cranberries with a sprig of rosemary for garnish), serving holiday-themed food and drinks amplifies the atmosphere.
