Minneapolis Lakes, MN March 2026

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Growth & Hope

Spring has sprung! Very soon we will be enjoying another beautiful Minnesota season with sunshine and warmth, the sound of rain, and the return of color. The start of 2026 was a challenging one for our community, but all is not lost. Spring brings with it growth and hope, even when life seems impossible.

Minneapolis is still home for us. It is special and our foundation is strong. No matter what shakes the city, I’d like to think that we will continue to take pride in celebrating what makes this area incredibly special.

For our annual Home issue, we met up with Grant and EJ, owners of Mixson Home Services. To them, a remodeling journey should follow more along the lines of the hospitality industry. They share a customer-first approach and how appropriate communication throughout the entire process goes a long way. They touch on how the homeowners working with Mixson can feel more comfortable, experience less stress and feel treated like they are in a true partnership.

Is creating a calming and beautiful space for 2026 on your wishlist for this year?  Talia Bartley, owner of Real Cleaners, sat with us and talked about how the mission and philosophy of their team comes into play before the first cleaning swipe even happens. From commercial construction to residential homes, the attention to detail and pride in their work takes precedence.

Cari Ann Carter of Edina Realty and founder of the Cari Ann Carter Group is excited to introduce her new book “Love it or Leave it” in relation to re-inventing the home you have loved for years or taking a leap into a new one. If you have been struggling to find answers, Cari Ann and her team have worked with countless families to make the transition and guide them in the right direction.

Finally, if you need to keep it simple, we offer tips on how to style a bookcase. Sometimes the rearrangement of a focal point is all you need to bring a smile.

We hope this month fills you with the growth and hope of spring, new opportunities and connections with the people and places that make the Minneapolis Lakes area home.

Our team appreciates you,

ALEXANDRA PATTY, PUBLISHER

March 2026

PUBLISHER

Alexandra Patty | alexandra.patty@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Sarah Knieff | sarah.knieff@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Susan Shannon | susan.shannon@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Shannon Roberts, Sarah Knieff

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Ashley Sullivan, Andrew Vick

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Mary Albers

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard

Hannah Leimkuhler

QUALITY

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

Children’s Theatre Company’s production of Go, Dog. Go! • Ve Perro ¡Ve!

Want to be seen in the magazine? TAG YOUR INSTAGRAM PHOTOS WITH @MINNEAPOLISLAKES

A ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES

Now Open: Noma Hi-Fi

Noma Hi-Fi Bar has officially opened in Edina’s vibrant 50th & France district as the latest craft cocktail destination from Daniel del Prado’s DDP Restaurant Group. Serving imaginative $15-$17 cocktails alongside beer, wine, sake and NA options, the dimly lit, Japanese-influenced space pairs drinks with snacks like gyoza and milk bread with nori butter. Vinyl tunes and DJs set the vibe Thursday through Saturday evenings—perfect for locals seeking elevated sips and social nights out. nomahifi.com

Now Open: The Urgency Room in Golden Valley

Located near the crossroads of I-394 and Xenia, The Urgency Room in Golden Valley brings access to fast, high-quality medical care to the growing west metro.

The Urgency Room offers more than urgent care, treating a wide range of injuries and illnesses, including chest pain, dehydration, abdominal pain, flu, and more. Golden Valley is The Urgency Room’s 4th location, with three additional sites covering the east metro. Learn more at:  urgencyroom.com/ locations/golden-valley/

Shop Victory: Curated Finds with Heart and Style

Discover eclectic treasures and warm hospitality at Shop Victory on West 44th Street in Minneapolis. Owned by longtime friends Lisa Balke and Susan Blankenship, this curated vintage and design destination showcases unique finds from across the U.S., including home décor, jewelry, gifts, candles, furniture, and more. Their keen eye for layering new and vintage pieces creates inspiring spaces that delight customers daily. With fresh items arriving regularly, there’s always something new to explore. shopvictory.com.

HOW MIXSON HOME SERVICES IS REDEFINING TRUST IN HOME RENOVATION

REMODELING WITHOUT THE GUESSWORK

Home remodeling doesn’t have to feel like a leap of faith. At least, that’s the belief driving Mixson Home Services. Within an industry where homeowners often expect unclear pricing, constant delays, and limited communication, the company has taken a deliberately different approach. Founded by longtime friends EJ Johnson and Grant Mixdorf, Mixson Home Services blends skilled craftsmanship with radical transparency, hands-on leadership, and a customer-first mindset. The result is a remodeling experience that feels less transactional and more like a true partnership.

ARTICLE BY SARAH KNIEFF

The name “Mixson” itself is symbolic. A blend of Mixdorf and Johnson , it represents more than a clever portmanteau, it reflects the partnership at the heart of the company. Johnson and Mixdorf have been friends for over a decade, first meeting in the bar and restaurant industry, where long hours and constant customer interaction shaped their work ethic. That hospitality background, they say, still informs everything they do today.

“We spent the bulk of our lives in restaurants and bars,” Johnson explains. “That’s where we learned how important communication and customer service really are. You’re always dealing with people, expectations, and pressure, which translates directly into remodeling.”

Both founders also bring more than ten years of hands-on experience in painting and remodeling, along with time spent working for general contractors and specialty renovation companies. But it wasn’t until a casual conversation – half joke, half frustration – that the idea for Mixson Home Services took root. After Grant was laid off and both men felt increasingly burned out by their careers, encouragement from Grant’s wife helped push the idea from hypothetical to reality.

Mixson Home Services officially in 2024. In just two short years, the company has seen remarkable growth, tripling its gross revenue. Much of that success, they say, has come from referrals and word of mouth, a testament to satisfied clients rather than aggressive marketing.

Mixson offers full-service general contract work, specializing in kitchens, bathrooms, basement finishes, garages, and accessory dwelling units (ADUs). Their approach is intentional and measured. “We wanted to crawl before we walked, walk before we ran,” says Johnson. “Slow growth, done right.”

What truly sets Mixson apart, however, is its radical transparency. From day one, Johnson and Mixdorf agreed that they wanted to address one of the most common pain points in remodeling: surprise costs and unclear change orders. Mixson operates with an open-book policy, sharing margins, markups, and even receipts with clients who want to see them.

“There’s a huge lack of transparency in this industry,” Johnson says. “We wanted to do the opposite. Simple, straightforward, and honest. That’s our motto.”

That philosophy extends to how Mixson manages subcontractors and unexpected challenges, particularly in older homes. Rather than allowing delays or behind-the-scenes decisions, Mixson brings everyone into the conversation. If a plumber or electrician uncovers an issue, the team quickly organizes a call with the homeowner to explain the problem, the solution, and the cost – keeping the project moving and trust intact.

Their network of subcontractors mirrors their own values: smaller crews, highly skilled tradespeople, and a shared commitment to communication and respect. This collaborative approach allows Mixson to control costs, and avoid the “stacked jobs” that often lead to stretched timelines and stressed clients.

For new customers, the experience begins with an in-home consultation focused on goals, preferences, and – importantly – budget. Mixson then provides a ballpark estimate based on similar projects. If the fit feels right on both sides, the next step is a “contractor day,” where key subcontractors walk the space together, identify challenges, and provide accurate numbers. The

result is a final estimate that’s typically 85–95% accurate before construction even begins.

Another point of pride for Mixson is the founders’ hands-on presence. Unlike companies where the homeowner never sees the contractors again, Johnson and Mixdorf are involved from the first meeting through the final walkthrough. “We’re on site day to day,” Johnson says. “We’re doing measurements, managing trades, and even finishing work ourselves. Clients know they’re going to see familiar faces from beginning to end.”

That personal investment extends beyond the work itself. Both founders value the work-life balance their business allows

– something that was impossible in the restaurant world. For Grant, it means time with his young family. For EJ, it’s flexibility, relationships, and even the small joys – like spending the first 15 minutes of a workday playing with a client’s dog.

At its core, Mixson Home Services isn’t just about remodeling spaces. It’s about restoring confidence in an industry where trust is often hard-won. By blending craftsmanship with clear communication and genuine human connection, EJ Johnson and Grant Mixdorf are proving that remodeling doesn’t have to be a nightmare – it can be a partnership.

And judging by their growth and the smiles on clients’ faces when they see a finished space for the first time, it’s a partnership homeowners are eager to be part of.

To set up a consultation, visit mixsonhomeservices.com or call 612-501-5778.

FROM CHAOS TO CALM

THE REAL CLEANERS APPROACH TO HOME AND HEART

ARTICLE

When life feels overwhelming, sometimes the smallest acts can restore a sense of control. For many families across the cities, that act comes in the form of a freshly cleaned home, delivered with care, compassion, and intention by the team at Real Cleaners.

Founded in 2024 by entrepreneur and mother Talia Bartley, Real Cleaners has quickly grown from a residential cleaning service into a trusted community presence. While the company is known for precision and attention to detail, its true distinction lies in its people-first philosophy. For Talia and her team, cleaning is not simply about aesthetics, it’s about creating peace, restoring dignity, and helping people breathe easier in their own spaces.

“Helping someone get even a small sense of control back in their life is incredibly powerful. It reminds us why this work matters.”

“Let us show you the difference,” Talia often says. It’s more than a slogan; it’s a promise that every home, whether occupied by a busy family, a realtor preparing a listing, or a builder completing a new construction project, will be treated with the same respect and care.

That philosophy begins before a single surface is wiped. Every new client receives a personalized 15-minute walkthrough, allowing the team to understand priorities, preferences, and unique needs. This intentional approach sets the tone for a relationship built on trust and communication. Clients aren’t just hiring a service –they’re partnering with a team that listens.

As demand for Real Cleaners has grown, so has the scope of its services. In addition to residential cleaning, the company has significantly expanded into new construction cleaning, now working with more than 20 builders, many of whom specialize in homes in the Lakes of the Isles area. A dedicated construction-cleaning team ensures that each project receives the precision and pride required to deliver a move-in-ready space.

“Both residential and new construction cleaning require the same values – consistency, thoroughness, and pride in your work,” Talia explains. “We don’t rush. We don’t cut corners. Our standards don’t change based on the job.”

Behind those standards is a close-knit team that has grown rapidly alongside the business. Real Cleaners now employs approximately 12 team members, including flexible “floaters” who support operations as needed. Despite the fast pace, the company culture remains grounded in mutual respect.

“Our team members are like family, and our clients are like family,” Talia shares. That sense of unity becomes especially apparent during high-demand periods, such as the holidays. In one memorable instance, the team condensed a high number of jobs into just two days so that everyone could spend time with their loved ones. The workload was intense, but

“Both residential and new construction cleaning require the same values –consistency, thoroughness, and pride in your work.”

the result was a shared sense of pride that reinforced why they do what they do.

That same spirit is most powerfully felt during Real Cleaners’ complimentary cleanings for families in need – an initiative that has become a defining part of the company’s identity. Through social media, Talia invites the community to nominate families facing hardship. The recipients often don’t ask for help themselves; they are nominated by friends, neighbors, or community members who see their struggle.

One recent complimentary clean left a lasting impact on both the family and the team. The home belonged to a woman navigating a traumatic family situation. When the cleaners arrived, the team didn’t yet know the full story. Talia gathered them together and explained why they were there.

“You could see it immediately,” she recalled. “They teared up. They were so grateful just to be able to help.”

The clean wasn’t just about tidying a space – it was about restoring a sense of order during a moment of chaos. “Helping someone get even a small sense of control back in their life is incredibly powerful,” Talia said. “It reminds us why this work matters.”

To date, Real Cleaners has completed four complimentary cleanings. While the team wishes they could do more, logistics and rapid growth sometimes make scheduling difficult. Still, giving back remains central to their definition of success.

“To me, success means very little if you’re not using it to uplift your community,” Talia said. “This business exists because people trust us. I take that responsibility seriously.”

That trust is reflected not only in heartfelt client reactions but also in an outpouring of unsolicited praise. Real Cleaners has built an impressive collection of glowing Google reviews, something the team holds close.

“People don’t usually take the time to leave positive reviews unless they really mean it,” Talia noted. “Seeing those messages reminds us that what we’re doing is making a difference.”

Whether it’s a family reclaiming peace in their home, a builder handing over keys with confidence, or a team member feeling proud to be part of something bigger, Real Cleaners continues to prove that cleaning can be transformative.

As the company looks toward the future, its mission remains unchanged: deliver exceptional work, care deeply for people, and strengthen the community one clean at a time.

Because at Real Cleaners, it’s never just about spotless floors – it’s about heart, humanity, and the power of showing up when it matters most.

320-583-3585 | realcleanersllc.com

HYDRATION AT YOUR DOORSTEP

Remodeling Is Our Thing

An Empty Nester Designer's Journey to a Lighter, More Intentional Home

RIGHTSIZING WITH STYLE

BY

In her book “Love It or Leave It: Your Guide to Thriving in Your Next Chapter,” Cari Ann Carter, a top-producing Twin Cities realtor and owner of Cari Ann Carter Group, offers empty nesters a compassionate framework for deciding whether to transform their current home or embrace a lighter, more aligned lifestyle.

Drawing from 28 years of guiding families through this pivotal transition, Carter emphasizes that roughly half the population now faces empty nesting – and with it, the opportunity to redesign not just spaces, but daily life itself.

A Minneapolis-based interior designer, Jaime Foley, exemplifies this journey. Specializing in modern aesthetics infused with warmth and purpose, Jaime approaches projects consultatively, combining clean lines with functional, purposeful details to create homes that feel both beautiful and lived-in.

Based in Edina and serving clients throughout the Twin Cities metro area, her full-service firm focuses on timeless design that elevates everyday living without chasing fleeting trends.

Like many in her demographic, Jaime has long been drawn to renovating and personalizing spaces. Two years ago, she poured that passion into her own home, taking a property with strong bones and transforming it through thoughtful updates.

The renovation emphasized enduring choices: streamlined layouts for better flow, quality materials, neutral palettes, and smart storage solutions that support real-life routines. Living in the space allowed her to refine the design iteratively, ensuring it truly worked – from morning light in an open kitchen to evenings in reimagined gathering areas.

This hands-on process mirrors the book's "Love It" path: assessing a home's potential, prioritizing the 20-Year Test for timeless function and value, and turning "too much house" into "just right" through strategic, lasting improvements.

Now, Jaime is stepping into the "Leave It" chapter. She is selling the beautifully finished home she just completed and downsizing to lower her financial footprint—a move that aligns with Carter's insights on the lock-and-leave lifestyle. By releasing excess square footage and maintenance demands, Jaime gains greater freedom, reduced ongoing costs (utilities, taxes, upkeep), and the mental bandwidth that comes from lighter living. The sale not only capitalizes on her renovation efforts – yielding strong market appeal and returns – but also unlocks equity for her next pursuit.

Currently on the hunt, Jaime seeks another original home with great bones: a property ripe for her personal stamp, perhaps one acquired at a value thanks to deferred updates, then customized to her vision. This acquisition-and-renovation strategy, highlighted in the book, allows discerning empty nesters to secure ideal locations or layouts without overpaying for turnkey perfection, then infuse them with intentional design.

CONTINUED >

Creatively, it keeps her engaged: the process of envisioning, renovating, and now seeking the next canvas fuels her passion as a designer.

Emotionally, it liberates from the obstacles Carter details –overwhelming possessions, analysis paralysis, family dynamics – replacing them with clarity and forward momentum.

Jaime's story illustrates the well-rounded success of rightsizing. Financially, it creates breathing room and long-term security. Emotionally, it liberates from the obstacles Carter details – overwhelming possessions, analysis paralysis, family dynamics – replacing them with clarity and forward momentum. Creatively, it keeps her engaged: the process of envisioning, renovating, and now seeking the next canvas fuels her passion as a designer.

Through Jaime's experience, “Love It or Leave It” comes to life as more than theory – it's a real-world testament to thriving in the next chapter. Whether staying to reshape a beloved home or moving toward simplicity, the goal remains the same: a space that supports dreams rather than hinders them.

For Twin Cities empty nesters navigating similar crossroads, Cari Ann Carter Group offers personalized guidance, from decision frameworks and market insights to coordinating teams for renovations or seamless transitions. As Jaime demonstrates, the right choice isn't about loss – it's about gaining a home, and a life that feels perfectly aligned.

realty report

SAMPLE OF RECENTLY SOLD PROPERTIES IN MINNEAPOLIS

LAKES.

Current as of January 2026. All data from NorthstarMLS. Data reflects rolling 12 months. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

Bookcase Styling your

Tips for an Organized and Aesthetic Display

ARTICLE BY SHANNON ROBERTS

A bookcase is often more than just a storage unit for books; it’s a focal point of a room that can enhance the overall decor and reflect personal style. Styling a bookcase can be a rewarding endeavor, allowing you to showcase your literary collection and curate a space that feels inviting and visually appealing. Here are some tips to help you achieve a beautifully styled bookcase.

Styling a bookcase is a creative process that combines practicality with aesthetics. By using these tips, you can transform an ordinary bookshelf into a stylish, engaging focal point that complements your home’s decor while showcasing your personality and interests.

Step 1

Strategically Place Books on the Bookcase While Incorporating Decorative Elements.

When placing books back on the shelves, think about the arrangement, vertical stacks are more traditional, horizontal stacks more modern, or both for more visual interest. Adding decorative elements such as picture frames, vases, or sculptural objects to break the monotony. Incorporating items with varying heights can create a dynamic arrangement. Use larger items like art pieces or baskets on lower shelves and smaller decorative objects higher up. Aim for a balanced look while avoiding perfect symmetry. This creates an organic flow, drawing the eye naturally across the shelf. Incorporate asymmetrical groupings for added interest, mixing textures, colors, and shapes.

Step 2

Use Color Wisely and Add Natural Elements.

Color plays a role in styling a bookcase. You can opt for a monochromatic palette for a sophisticated look or introduce pops of color for a more energetic vibe. If your books are of various colors, pick a few colorful decorative pieces that complement or contrast them effectively. Integrating plants or natural elements can breathe life into your bookcase. Small potted plants can add color and texture.

Step 3

Create Zones and Add Personal Touches.

If your bookcase has multiple shelves, consider creating zones or themes for different sections. Infuse your personality into the bookcase through memorabilia, travel souvenirs, or personal artwork. These pieces add a storytelling dimension and make the space uniquely yours.

Monday - Trivia Mafia ● Tuesday - Happy Hour all day

Wednesday - $20 Pitchers and Pizza Special Buy 1 get the second for $1 (Cheese, Pepperoni or Sausage)

Thursday - $7 Crowler Special

Friday & Saturday - Live Music ● Sunday - Supper and S’mores

Drink tokens in your pocket? There’s a pint waiting for you at Bear Cave!

WEEKLY EVENTS: 1201 Main Street, Hopkins 952-426-3214

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the personal, and the unknown for 100 years. And we’re just getting started. At Best & Flanagan, we deliver seasoned legal insight with a personal touch always clear, always focused, always on your side.

Ask Susan

CPFA,

Founder / CEO Stiles Financial Services, Inc.

Dear Susan: My spouse and I are considering a second home. Are there advantages to looking out of state?

Before purchasing a second home, you and your spouse should evaluate three key factors: your long-term lifestyle goals, the true cost of owning and maintaining two homes along with the potential income tax savings if you seek residency in a state with lower income taxes than where you currently live, and then what it really takes to prove legal residency—because it’s more than just buying property. The best decision is the one that aligns your financial plan with how you actually want to live and this takes a lot of soul searching and conversation. Let’s take a look at what that means in my deep dive, follow-up video on this topic. Snap the QR code below to join me.

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events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

MARCH 4TH

Dancing With The Stars: Live!

The Armory | 6:30 PM

Experience the glamour and athleticism of “Dancing with the Stars: Live!,” a stage show that brings the hit TV series to life with breathtaking choreography, dazzling costumes, and world-class dancers performing both classic and new routines in an electrifying live performance that celebrates rhythm, artistry, and unforgettable entertainment energy. armorymn.com

MARCH 5TH - 8TH

Northwest Sports Show

Minneapolis Convention Center

Explore the ultimate outdoor recreation showcase at the Northwest Sportshow, where hundreds of exhibitors spotlight the latest in fishing, boating, camping, hunting gear, RVs, and adventure travel. Enjoy hands-on demos, expert seminars, gear discoveries for all ages, and inspiration for your next outdoor pursuit at this large consumer sports and outdoor expo. northwestsportshow.com

MARCH 15TH - 17TH

St. Patrick’s Day Irish Celebration

Landmark Center

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with Irish Arts Minnesota in a festive showcase of music, dance, and Irish culture! Enjoy lively performances, traditional tunes, energetic step dancing, and a joyful community atmosphere that honors Ireland’s heritage. This event is perfect for all ages, bringing together friends and families to revel in the luck, laughter, and spirit. irishartsmn.org

MARCH 17TH - 22ND

Mrs. Doubtfire

The Ordway

Experience the beloved story of "Mrs. Doubtfire" as a heart-warming, laugh-out-loud musical comedy that celebrates family, love, and the lengths we go to stay together. Based on the iconic film, this feel-good stage show blends humor, memorable characters, and theatrical charm, making it a delightful, family-friendly performance full of joy and fun. ordway.org/events/mrs-doubtfire

MARCH 27TH - 29TH

Shen Yun

Minneapolis Orpheum Theatre

Shen Yun presents a breathtaking celebration of classical Chinese dance and music, blending exquisite choreography, vibrant costumes, and a live orchestra. Audiences are transported through ancient stories and legends with powerful performances that honor timeless traditions. This awe-inspiring show captivates with beauty, grace, and artistic mastery, offering an unforgettable cultural experience for all. shenyun.com/mn.

MARCH 28TH

Minnesota Roller Derby

Roy Wilkins Auditorium | 5:00 PM

Experience the adrenaline of Minnesota Roller Derby as elite skaters collide in fast-paced, hard-hitting flat track action. Expect fierce rivalries, explosive jams, and nonstop energy from start to finish. With bold athleticism, team spirit, and edge-of-your-seat moments, this event delivers an unforgettable dose of sports excitement that keeps crowds cheering and coming back for more. rivercentre.org.

2026 Subaru Forester Trust goes a long way.

The 2026 Subaru Forester. There’s a reason so many owners keep coming back to the capable, safe, and exible Forester. With the capability of standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, a spacious interior offering ample cargo space, and the advanced protection of standard EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology1. Our most advanced safety technology. Up to 33 mpg

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