The Love Local Issue F E B R UA RY 2 02 4
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FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / WAC O N I A
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LIFESTYLE LETTER
Love Local I don’t know about you, but this time of year, I am always torn. I find myself torn between resisting the commercialization of another greeting card holiday and indulging in all the sweet excuses to enjoy the season. I also just recently survived Christmas, vowed to eat healthier and then I’m bombarded with more chocolate availability. To do a Valentine’s Day date out or enjoy a cozy night at home? To buy a card or just say a kind word? I usually land somewhere a little in between. We’ll each arrive at different answers based on our preferences and personalities, but what we hold in common is an opportunity to make sure those around us know we love them. And regardless of how you choose to celebrate, we hope the pages of this month’s magazine will help you do just that as we celebrate and highlight what’s to love in Waconia. While we teeter between the chill of January winter and the excitement of spring, we hope you’ll be inspired to take a moment to come together with the people in your life. The ones in your home and on your street. In your neighborhood and our community. “Love local” means your local businesses, those in your community - but it also means loving what is near. Those under your own roof included. So grab a coffee at Ruby’s Roast or Mocha Monkey and head home for a game night around the fire with the family. Or snag a bottle of wine from Schram Vineyards and some cheese from Mackenthun's and indulge in a movie night in. We’ve always believed what we can do together is so much more than what we can do apart. And we continue to see that demonstrated through the many stories told in these pages month after month. Thanks for letting us be a part of the life you’re building, whatever that may look like. Our hope is that we inspire you to love it just a bit more than you did before. Happy February and we will see you around Waconia and Victoria!
D AV E R O B E R T S O N , P U B L I S H E R @ WAC O N I AC I T Y L I F E S T Y L E
February 2024 PUBLISHER
Dave Robertson | dave.robertson@citylifestyle.com M AR K E T S U P P O RT M AN AGE R
Amy Janzen | amy.janzen@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R
Lauren Beaubaire | lauren.beaubaire@citylifestyle.com P U B L I S H E R AS S I STAN T
Lynlee Critz | lynlee.critz@citylifestyle.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Emily McKeever, Lutie Ronglien, Amanda Wagner, Lauren Beaubaire, Jen Fortner C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R S
Maria Claire Photography, Forever Young Photography
Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein AD DESIGNER Mary Albers LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 Waconia City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Waconia area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle
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L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R
Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Waconia City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.
FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / WAC O N I A
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inside the issue FE B RUA RY 2 0 2 4 | LOV E LO CA L
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Featured
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What’s New in Waconia
Ideas for tailoring a Valentine’s Day that speaks to every kind of love
Sweet Love
Float on air, and Candie Clouds, this Valentine’s Day
Romancing the Vine
Schram Vineyards shares their favorite wine and food pairings for an unforgettable Valentine’s Day
Brewing Community and Curating Creativity Meet Jon Schmidt and learn how his passions created a community oasis
16 On the Cover
Departments
Gourmet cotton candy cake from Candie Clouds. Meet the maker behind this sweet sensation with our story “Sweet Love” inside this issue!
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Lifestyle Letter
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City Scene
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Business Monthly
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City List
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Our Town LIFE + CULTURE
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Culinary Creations ARTS + CULTURE
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Locally Sourced FOOD + BEVERAGE
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Artist’s Palette FOOD + BEVERAGE
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Local’s Choice LIFE + CULTURE
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Mental Wellbeing HEALTH + WELLNESS
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Events
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Gift Guide SHOPPING
Photography: Candie Clouds
FEBRUARY 2024
city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
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1-7: Waconia High School show choirs put on an incredible performance for the annual Waconia Show Choir Premiere Night. It’s one of their biggest fundraisers of the year and the public’s first opportunity of the competition season to see these talented high schoolers perform. The night kicked off with a silent auction with items donated by local businesses, choir boosters, and friends and family.
Want to be seen in the magazine? TA G Y O U R I N S TA G R A M P H O T O S W I T H @ W A C O N I A C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E
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C I T Y SC E N E
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FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / WAC O N I A
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FEBRUARY 2024
business monthly A R O U N D U P O F N E W S F R O M LO C A L B U S I N E S S E S
Welcome Vayda Orthodontics to Waconia! Does Bobby need braces or does Susie want Invisalign? How about you? Are you looking for some relief from your TMJ or is someone in your house a candidate for jaw surgery? Lucky you, Dr. Doug Vayda (who has seen over 15,000 patients in his career!) and associates are now seeing patients in Waconia. Give them a call, then find them at 576 Cherry Drive for a comprehensive list of services and care. Photography by Vayda Orthodontics
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Photography by Mackenthun’s Fine Foods
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B USIN E SS M ON T H LY
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FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / WAC O N I A
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PICKS FOR
VE L OCAL B U
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We have such amazing, innovative business leaders in our community who are proud to serve you, our residents, with class and quality. We’ve compiled some of our top company picks for the services that might be on your mind this month in an effort to make your lives a little easier.
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Florist Main St. Floral https://mainstfloral.com/ | 952.442.4845 Bloom Studio https://www.bloomstudiofloral.com/ | 952.479.0124 Victoria Rose Floral https://www.victoriarosefloral.com/?y_source=1_MTQ5ODA2NzctNzE1LWxvY 2F0aW9uLndlYnNpdGU%3D | 952.443.4774 Mackenthun's Floral & Gifts https://shop.mackenthuns.com/online/mackenthunswaconia/shop/floralgifts 952.442.2512 Pretty Petals by Bridget https://www.prettypetalsmn.com/ | 952.443.1809
Winery Schram Vineyards https://www.schramvineyards.com/ | 952.442.5105 Sovereign Estate https://www.sovereignestatewine.com/ | 952.446.9957
Want to suggest a monthly pick? G E T I N T O U C H AT CIT YLIFEST YLE .COM/ WACON IA
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C I T Y LIST
Parley Lake Winery https://www.parleylakewinery.com/ Fountain Hill Winery & Vineyard https://www.fhwandvineyard.com/ | 763.972.4000 Crow River Winery https://www.crowriverwinery.com/ | 320.587.2922
Jeweler Infinity Diamond Jewelers https://infinitydiamondjewelers.com/ | 952.442.4161 Studio SLVR https://www.studioslvr.com/ Amy Sabatier Designs https://amysabatierdesigns.com/ InkHeart Tattoo https://www.inkheartmn.com/ | 952.448.1160 Karma Stacks https://www.karmastacks.com/
Day Spa Balance Life Wellness https://balancelifewaconia.com/ | 952.442.2288 The Healing Path https://www.healingpathmn.com/ | 952.290.3600 Salon SPAtoria https://www.salonspatoria.com/ | 952.443.1652 The Parlour Salon & Spa https://www.theparlourgirls.com/ | 952.679.4805 Root of Life Massage Therapy https://www.rootoflifemassage.com/ | 651.235.5025
Event Space Bavaria Downs https://www.bavariadowns.com/ | 952.443.2968 Sun Room at Lake Waconia Regional Park https://www.carvercountymn.gov/Home/Components/News/News/3727/ 952.466.5255 Ashery Lane Farm https://asherylanefarm.com/ | 612.238.4444 The Outpost https://www.theoutpostcenter.com/ | 952.475.8095 South Glen Farm https://www.southglenfarm.com/ | 952.855.6088
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W h a t ’s New i n Wa c o n i a IDEAS FOR TAILORING A VALENTINE’S DAY THAT SPEAKS TO EVERY KIND OF LOVE
ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER
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O UR TOWN | L I FE + C ULT U RE
In the book The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love That Lasts, you’ve got your words of affirmation, gifts, acts of service, physical touch, and quality time. While it’s always considerate to respect your main squeeze, confidant, or partner by honoring the way they experience and convey love, on February 14th (or somewhere in that neighborhood), it’s sort of… required. So, give a heartfelt compliment to your BFF, buy your spouse that sweater they’ve been wanting, clean the bathroom, hold your companion’s hand as you walk around the neighborhood, and plan a meaningful Valentine’s Day date that celebrates your one-of-a-kind love. For the couple who do their best loving under the stars, the Three Rivers Park District has numerous cross-country ski trails and snowshoeing paths for all skill levels and special Candlelit Night events for a little extra romance. No equipment? No problem! Renting is available at a few of their wander-lust-filled parks. Load up your lungs with fresh air, then sate your hunger and thirst at Schram Winery and Vineyards. In their beautiful tasting room, you’ll feel like you’re in the great outdoors with the space’s rustic charm and expansive windows that showcase gorgeous views of Lake Reitz. The beauty continues with their award-winning wine and charcuterie boards and other shareable delights made in their Perfect Pairings Kitchen. If your idea of romance is a night on the couch in your fanciest pajamas, order takeout from The Noble Lion to dine like royalty in the comfort of your own home. Set the table with your prettiest dishes (is Chinet your prettiest? Go for it!), light a candle, and make a toast to love and coziness. Pick up a few delectable desserts from Bakery on Main - may we suggest the cupcakes the size of your face and their classy macarons - and a growler of your favorite brew from Waconia Brewing Company. And nothing says a perfect love-filled Valentine’s night like movie-marathoning The Notebook, Titanic, and You’ve Got Mail… or binging Succession. You do you.
Should you be an organizer of the last-minute variety, don’t fear! Swing into Mackenthun’s to gather the freshest ingredients for your love’s favorite meal and cook together. With a bottle of wine or a classy mocktail, your ‘Enchanted Love’ playlist, and precious time alone, it could very well feel like you actually did plan ahead. A moonlit walk followed by chocolate and strawberry fondue at home is another idea, or order pizza, play games, and sync your calendars to plan a future date for fettuccine alfredo and a prosciutto pizza at Bode Gray’s, followed by Old Fashioneds at The Brass Hat. Put the ‘Day’ back in Galentine’s Day and begin a friend-filled love fest early in the day. Shop at The Stash, Magnolia North Boutique, and Ruthie’s Vintage, then head to Victoria for stops at White Birch House and Willa June. You’re in luck because Victoria Burrow is just around the corner, so a fun game of mini golf, some ax throwing, and arcade games is convenient and definitely in order. After winning yourself a stuffed unicorn and an armful of glow-in-the-dark bracelets, finish up your “GNE” (Greatest Night Ever, that is) with a celebratory dinner at Winchester and Rye. You have so much to celebrate, and there’s no better place to do it. The classic romantic Valentine’s Day isn’t classic or romantic without spending it at Lola’s Lakehouse. In a private booth tucked back in the bar or a table along the windows that line Lake Waconia, you really couldn’t ask for a better backdrop to the most amorous of evenings. Sip on glasses of wine or order from their craft cocktail menu, then choose a couple of goodies from their dessert menu for a perfect bookend to an evening spent by the glistening lake. Next, make the short drive to Emagine Movie Theater for the latest flick and a buttery bucket of popcorn, Lady and the Tramp style, for dessert number two.
L E A R N M O R E : We’re feeling the love tonight! We’d love to know your
favorite ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day. Where is your favorite local spot for a romantic dinner? Candy hearts or chocolate? Let us know! Tag us at #waconiacitylifestyle with a photo of your favorite local Valentine’s Day traditions or find us on Facebook!
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Sweet Love
FLOAT ON AIR, AND CANDIE CLOUDS, THIS VALENTINE’S DAY
ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER Love can make you feel as if there are butterflies in your stomach, like you’re falling head over heels or that you’re on cloud nine. Heads somersaulting over heels feels a little scary and unsafe, and who wants anything fluttering anywhere in their body? But cloud nine? Ahhh… now that sounds nice. What if cloud nine was, in fact,
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C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | ARTS + CU LT U RE
a cloud, but one that was made of delicious cotton candy? What if you could have it any time? For birthdays, grown-up get-togethers, a graduation party, or for the sweetest component, besides your significant other, to your Valentine’s Day adventures. In 2020, when the world shut down, Crystal Jensen’s daughter was about to celebrate her 7th birthday, and sadly, the cake maker Crystal usually turned to for all her celebratory goodies had gone out of business. Her daughter wanted a movie theater-themed birthday party complete with an outdoor movie with friends, so a mom did what moms do. Crystal bought a commercial cotton candy maker. “Go big or go home,” she says with a smile. It was a perfect substitute for a birthday cake and, for the time, a safe alternative as well. Plus, that blissful stickiness reserved for the outdoors instead of your walls and furniture? Count every parent on the planet in. “Practicing spinning the cotton candy brought me so much joy, I actually cried a little bit,” Crystal admits with a laugh. “We were in the middle of the pandemic and we all needed a little joy. I had so much fun making cotton candy, I didn’t stop.” Her entrepreneurial spirit took the reins, and Candie Clouds, a gourmet cotton candy small woman-owned and run business, was successfully spun into so much more than your favorite fair treat that leaves you with a colorful tongue. CONTINUED >
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Candie Clouds always has something new and exciting for the season. Think cotton candy snowballs for winter, along with the usual delectable treats such as Candie bombs with edible glitter (just add 7up or champagne!) and custom-labeled tubs filled with the fluffy stuff topped with sprinkles. This February, a little tenderness and the sweet smell of sugary delights can be in the air at your family dinners or romantic date nights with her newest joy-filled creations. Order everyone at your table their very own heart-shaped Valentine’s Day push-up pop filled with grape and strawberry cotton candy, or spread the love and flossy goodness to all the loves in your life with mini heart cakes made of strawberry cotton candy. And yes, her beautiful 10-inch cakes are always available (they do slice just like a real cake,
to answer your question). But, while Cupid is shooting his arrows this month, Crystal is doing a special flavor combo of pink vanilla, strawberry, and grape adorned with cute heart-shaped décor. Back when Candie Clouds was just a twinkling sugar speck in Crystal’s eye, nobody knew just how much they needed a few tubs of airy yumminess to turn their day around or that simply fixing their eyes on its pastel hue would take them back to the magic of sugar dissolving in their mouths… and carefree fun. But we do now. And what’s more, the soft charm of each interaction Candie Clouds has with those they serve is the magic touch that we’d argue surpasses the delight of each ethereal bite of heaven they spin. https://www.candieclouds.com/
AND YES, HER BE AUTIFUL 10 -INCH CAKES ARE ALWAYS AVAIL ABLE (THE Y DO SLICE JUST LIKE A RE AL CAKE, TO ANSWER YOUR QUESTION!) 18
C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | ARTS + CU LT U RE
Up Your Curb Appeal & make your front entry more
Welcoming! 952.715.1273 | waconialandscapingco.com Justin@waconialandscapingco.com
FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / WAC O N I A
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ARTICLE BY LUTIE RONGLIEN
SCHRAM VINEYARDS SHARES THEIR FAVORITE WINE AND FOOD PAIRINGS FOR AN UNFORGETTABLE VALENTINE’S DAY Aaron and Ashley Schram. Photo by Taylor Hubbard
ROMANCING THE VINE 20
LOCA LLY SOU R CE D | FOOD + BE VE RAGE
Wine in Minnesota has come a long way, in part due to the work of Ashley and Aaron Schram, owners and founders of Waconia’s Schram Vineyards, and their desire to elevate Minnesota wines.
“A winery is extremely complex,” Ashley says. “Not only are we growing the product on-site, but we are also manufacturing, packaging, and selling it all at the same location. It is one of
“WHEN YOU FIND THE PERFECT WINE TO PAIR WITH A FOOD, IT CAN CHANGE THE WHOLE DINING EXPERIENCE. ” “On my first date with Aaron, he said he wanted to start a winery,” Ashley says. “I wasn’t sure how seriously to take him.” The longer they dated, Ashley discovered how passionate Aaron is about making wine. She realized that being in a relationship with Aaron meant a lifestyle that goes with creating wine. The Schrams spent a long time building the business, from buying the land and growing the grapes to opening the winery, all while starting their family. The Schrams’ professional backgrounds have helped them build the winery from the ground up. Ashley has experience with communications and event planning; Aaron’s background is in project management. All of these skills have been critical in navigating and managing a winery.
the very few businesses that has farming, manufacturing, retail, and events all in one place.” And, of course, in Minnesota, the winery doesn’t stop in the winter. Schram has events year-round. In February, you can bring your sweetheart to Schram for some exciting events. On February 10, there will be vendors from 2-5pm, a couples’ wine and cheese class in the evening, and live music. On February 14, enjoy special flights and tapas featuring shareable plates and specially selected wines. Pianist Elsa Lee will perform. No sweetheart? Take your gal pals to Schram for some rom-com trivia on February 9. Want to wind down with wine? What could be better than candlelight yoga with wine and dessert on February 13? CONTINUED >
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Photo by Schram Vineyards
Photo by Schram Vineyards
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LOCA LLY SOU R CE D | FOOD + BE VE RAGE
There’s always something new at Schram to try. It’s a beautiful setting to enjoy a glass of wine and listen to some music. In the winter, enjoy the wine in a beautiful building that feels rustic and cozy. The food they serve is carefully chosen to be paired with their wines. “The beauty of the menu we’ve created is that most of our dishes are shareable and designed for a couple or small group to indulge in together,” Ashley says. “Paired alongside our suggested wines, it encourages discussion and comparing notes on the different flavors and which food and wine pairing is everyone’s favorite.” If you’re unsure what wine you like or if wine intimidates you, Ashley suggests that you just start trying them to see what you like. Reserve your spot at a wine tasting at Schram (available most Saturdays), where you can try different wines ranging from whites to reds and dry to semi-sweet. “If you like wine a lot, you can pair it with anything to eat,” Ashley says. “But sometimes, when you find the perfect wine to pair with a food, it can change the whole dining experience even if it isn’t a wine you normally would drink.”
Photo by Schram Vineyards
“MINNESOTA WINES TEND TO BE VERY FOOD-FRIENDLY.” She suggests the pairing of their Pesto Margherita Flatbread with their Sparkling Itasca. “Our team works really hard to create the perfect pairing of wines with a shareable dish on our menu. It’s a fun process, and sometimes we find unexpected pairings,” Ashley says. A good rule of thumb for pairing wine with food is that the wine should be more acidic than the food, according to Ashley. “Minnesota wines tend to be very food-friendly for this reason,” she says. “Our cold-hardy grapes tend to be more acidic in nature. The wine should match the flavor intensity of the food or sauce it’s served with.” Love to try new wines? Coming in spring are a few new reds and a new sparkling wine. Join Schram’s wine club to get the latest wines and have a chance to socialize with fellow wine lovers. Check out all Schram’s events, sign up for a tasting, and join the club at schramvineyards.com. Photo by Schram Vineyards
Photo by Schram Vineyards FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / WAC O N I A
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MEET JON SCHMIDT AND LEARN HOW HIS PASSIONS CREATED A COMMUNITY OASIS
Brewing Community and Curating Creativity ARTICLE BY AMANDA WAGNER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARIA CLAIRE PHOTOGRAPHY
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A RT IST ’S PA LE T T E | F OOD + BEVERAGE
Jon Schmidt is more than a local artist; he is the visionary owner of the Mocha Monkey coffeehouses, where caffeine meets community, and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingles with the creative spirit. After a transformative stint in India, Jon knew he wasn’t cut out for the corporate world. Jon’s initial foray into the arts came serendipitously during his college years. While studying business management at Gustavus Adolphus College, he took a pottery class. An anomaly in the class as the lone non-art major, this fortuitous twist sparked a love affair with pottery. Throwing more pots than anyone else in the class, Jon found himself at a crossroads between his artistic passion and the practicalities of the business world. However, Jon discovered how he could do both. In 2010, Jon was working part-time at Mocha Monkey when Pam, the previous owner, mentioned the prospect of selling the downtown location. Jon saw an opportunity, marking the beginning of his entrepreneurial journey. Taking the reins on January 1, 2011, Jon simultaneously managed the downtown location while completing his final semester at college. Mocha Monkey became not just a business but a learning platform where Jon could apply his coursework to real-world challenges.
Over the years, the Mocha Monkey family grew, with dedicated employees like Sam, MJ, Rhonda, Cole, and Hannah becoming integral to its success. The expansion bug bit Jon when HomeTown Bank approached him about opening another location. This marked a significant leap from one to two locations, propelling him from an operator to an owner. He could no longer rely on just himself to fill gaps, but instead needed to empower his team and find the resources to meet all the needs. A third location became possible when he was approached by a coffee shop, Americano, in St. Boni. These new locations not only expanded his impact and reach in the community, they laid the groundwork for Jon to contemplate his next venture – pottery. Jon’s interest in pottery never stopped. He built a studio in the basement of the original Mocha Monkey, where he threw pots and mugs that they used and sold at the location. Just prior to COVID, Jon was ready to create a pottery identity beyond Mocha Monkey. Social platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok became conduits for his creative expression, rapidly amassing a substantial following. With over a million followers across platforms, pottery is much more than a hobby. CONTINUED >
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As the pottery business flourished, Jon faced the challenges of COVID-19 head-on. The pandemic served as a catalyst, propelling Jon’s pottery studio to new heights. From creating custom pieces for local businesses like Andersen Windows to expanding his studio at home, Jon’s craftsmanship found resonance beyond the coffeehouse walls. With the aid of a studio assistant, they complete over 4,000 custom pieces a year – made and shipped from the home studio. The community’s embrace of Mocha Monkey echoes Jon’s mission statement – to create a space where people leave feeling better than when they arrived. This ethos is woven into the fabric of Mocha Monkey, with friendly interactions, an eclectic atmosphere, and quiet nooks for focused work or private conversations.
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A RT IST ’S PA LE T T E | FO OD + BE VE RAGE
Looking ahead, Jon is working on two more Mocha Monkey locations in the next year, solidifying the brand’s footprint in Carver and Victoria while expanding the community experience he strives for in each location. With three young boys and thriving businesses, Jon’s story is one of impact. Mocha Monkey is more than a coffeehouse. It’s a place made for gathering, with cozy nooks and crannies for focused work and custom pottery and decor for ambiance. It’s impact in action – one coffee cup and pottery piece at a time. Relax with a cup of coffee at Mocha Monkey: https:// themochamonkey.com/ and check out Jon’s incredible pottery work at: https://www.jonschmidtpottery.com/
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WHEN CUPID MISSES
Valentine’s Day is a much-maligned holiday these days. It’s criticized for being too commercial, too manufactured, too consumer-focused, too much. I always loved the childhood Valentine swaps, and I like red- and
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pink-themed clothing and can even choke down some chalky conversation hearts. There are the charming chocolates in faux velvet heart-shaped boxes. The bouquets of expensive roses in the dead of winter. The cards. Again, the chocolate. Plus, America now boasts a National Tortilla Chip Day and a National Squirrel Appreciation Day. Love deserves at least one day of
Life Min
LOCA L’S CH OICE | L I FE + CU LT U RE
recognition if we are devoting time to celebrating chips and squirrels. February 14th, 1987, was one of my favorite Valentine’s. I was a sophomore in high school. And I’ll speak for myself, but high school was a time of intense feelings, obnoxious laughter, a steady diet of cookies and French fries, and boldly exhibiting almost zero common sense. In 1987, my childhood bestie and I sent anonymous Valentine’s down to the front office at school to the two boys we were fixated on that month. Let’s call them Jeff and Aaron since they are named Jeff and Aaron. We waited nervously for their names to be called over the schoolwide intercom system, alerting them that they had something to pick up at the front desk. When we heard JEFF and AARON boom out of the speakers, we were beside ourselves with anticipation. At no point did our fifteen-year-old brains consider what a colossal waste of time this was for the school secretary. She was an integral part of our scheme. We hatched this brilliant plan to set in motion the most memorable, most romantic, most special Valentine’s
nded
Day of all time. We figured these boys would puzzle out that these Valentine’s cards were from us, ask us out (together), profess their undying love, and we’d likely have some sort of awkward double wedding before we even graduated from high school. None of that happened. What did happen was they got the Valentines from the desk. That’s it. They didn’t immediately assume it was us who sent them. They did not magically fall in love with us. They did not track us down through the girl hive at school to uncover our identities. They did not swoon. They did nothing. And because we were fifteen, we were legitimately SURPRISED by this result. While devastated, we needed to move to an alternate plan for the evening of the fourteenth now that the double wedding had clearly been postponed. We ended up at the majestic Eden Prairie Center to see the movie Mannequin and then to Rocky Rococo’s to share a heart-shaped pizza. We spent a large majority of dinner poring over the details of our original plan and where it went awry. We landed on “it’s their loss, and we are better off
without them.” And while it was not a romantic evening, it was filled with love and absolutely memorable. We are still dear friends. We have been friends for forty-five years now and have probably laughed and cried together over more boys than is reasonable. Life lessons in adolescence are often painful but can be valuable in the future. First, never keep love anonymous. No need to waste it. Spend it all. Second, the minds of fifteen-year-olds are a complex and confusing place. Like a funhouse maze with no exits. Teenagers are not mind readers as they are most commonly focused on their own minds. This is actually a very keen insight to be used as a future parent of a teenager. And most importantly, any evening can be salvaged with a good friend, a bizarre movie (a department store employee falls in love with a mannequin who is under an ancient Egyptian spell!?), and hysterical laughter. And if all else fails, celebrate the pizza. Pizza does not disappoint. There are ten national days devoted to celebrating pizza, and I bet very few of them end in heartbreak.
COLUMN 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 the Southwest Metro with her husband, three children and the most spoiled dog. FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / WAC O N I A
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Randy Young
A BA L A NCI NG AC T
We ask the expert: Randy Young shares how to discover your passion and do what you love
ARTICLE BY LAUREN BEAUBAIRE PHOTOGRAPHY BY FOREVER YOUNG PHOTOGRAPHY
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M EN TA L WE LLB E IN G | H E ALT H + WE LLN E SS
When was the last time you carved out some space, just for yourself, to do something you love? If you’re still trying to remember, you will want to keep reading. Too often, for so many of us, taking the time to do something you love or pursue a passion takes a backseat. The day-to-day, work, kids, spouse, and trying to figure out what’s for dinner Every. Single. Night. so quickly fills our time and energy. Randy Young sees this all too often in his line of work. Randy is a Certified Peer Support Specialist (CPSS) and started Revive with Randy to support others working through their mental health struggles. “I never thought I could make a career out of what I do,” says Randy. “But a market has evolved as more people are seeking support for their mental health. I went through my own mental struggles. My life was not balanced. I had no downtime, and my lifestyle wasn’t allowing me to do what I’m passionate about and recharge my batteries. It completely drained me.” Randy is one of the lucky ones who is able to make a living out of what he loves to do: help people. After being let go from his IT job when the pandemic hit, Randy started his handyman business, Handy Randy, and later that same day, signed up to be a CPSS, starting him on the trajectory for a balanced life. “One of the big things I get joy out of is helping people. I recently finished a home project for a couple, and they were elated with how it turned out; I helped make their life a little better, and that is my happy drug. Of course, it’s different for everyone. You don’t have to make your career what you’re passionate about,” says Randy. “The most important thing is to find that personal balance.
That time for yourself where you can become the best version of yourself so you can be the best version to everyone else.” So, where do you start? “What I like to do with my clients is to have them list what they do in a week. We see what takes up their time and if there is anything they can set aside for now and instead take that time to recharge. What can you trade off to create that space to be purposeful and do something for yourself ? One of the challenging parts is understanding that it’s okay to take that time and it’s not selfish to do so,” says Randy. For many, even after carving out that space, you may find yourself stuck with what it even looks like to recharge. What is your passion? What is revitalizing for you? What gives you energy? “If you’re not sure, take the time you’ve set aside to explore all possibilities. Find what creates balance for you. I always recommend starting with something that also uses your hands, like woodworking, painting, or yoga,” says Randy. “Anything that requires you to stay focused with your hands helps you stay grounded and be present in the moment.” Randy also advises that one of the most important things to do is to start slowly and work your way into it. “Start with small adjustments. Maybe you find drawing doesn’t work, but painting does. If you have a lunch break at work, be sure to actually take it. Once you find something that works for you consistently, then you can start adding in more.” During a month that focuses so much on love, show yourself some love. Create that space for balance, and take the time to discover your passions and do what you love.
FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / WAC O N I A
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FEBRUARY 2024
events A S E L E C T I O N O F U P C O M I N G LO C A L E V E N T S
F EB RUA RY 2 N D - 3 RD
The Klondike Dog Derby Downton Excelsior | 1:30 PM Don't miss the most adorable race of the year. The Klondike Dog Derby will kick off on Friday, February 2 with pre-race events including a chance to meet the mushers and their Huskies along with sled dog races for the kids. Race day is on Saturday and will begin with the opening ceremony at 9:30 A.M. and conclude with the Klondike Wrap Party at Excelsior Brewing Co. F EB RUA RY 8T H A N D 13TH
Galentine's Candlelight Yoga + Wine + Dessert Schram Vineyards | 6:00 PM Celebrate pre-Valentine's with your besties! This is the perfect night to relax, unwind and treat yourself. Enjoy 60 minutes of gentle and serene candlelight yoga in the Barrel Room, followed by wine and a house-made dessert in the tasting room. Bring your own mat and a friend to share the experience together! Ticket includes yoga instruction, wine flight and dessert. Space is limited and tickets go fast, so claim your spot early! F EB RUA RY 1 0 T H
Valentine’s Day Craft Party Chaska Community Center | 9:30 AM Nothing says “I love you” like a homemade gift! Kidcreate Studio hosts a Valentine’s Day gift making party at the Chaska Community Center from 9:30 - 10:30am on Saturday, February 10. Let your young artist show their favorite Valentine how much they love them with a jumbo sized Hershey® Kiss made out of clay. This is a great class for siblings to attend together!
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Polar Plunge Lola's Lakehouse | 12:00 PM Ready to take the plunge?! Brave the cold and sign up for the annual Polar Plunge at Lola's Lakehouse! Jump into freezing cold water with friends and family on Saturday, February 10. The Plunge helps support Special Olympics Minnesota athletes. Always a fun event, participants also receive incentives, prizes, and giveaways. Last year 409 Plungers raised $153,427! www.plungemn.org/events/waconia/ F E BRUA RY 1 7 T H
Candlelit Night at Baylor Baylor Regional Park | 4:30 PM Glide through candlelit trails on cross country skis, or throw on a pair of snowshoes to check out the luminaries at Baylor Regional Park! Climb aboard the hayride for a trip to the Eagle Lake Observatory and view the stars with the Minnesota Astronomical Society. Slide around on some kicksleds, and then warm up with hot cocoa, cider, and s'mores, or grab a bite to eat at the Pizza Karma food truck! F E BRUA RY 2 3 RD
Waconia Ski and Snowboarding Club Fundraiser
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Hoppers Bar and Grill | 3:30 PM Join the Waconia Ski and Snowboarding Club for their fundraiser at Hoppers Bar and Grill on Friday, February 23! Come out to support the club and make your bids at their silent auction from 3:30 - 5:30pm. Your contribution helps the kids hit the slopes! Mark your calendars and join in the fun to support a fantastic cause.
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CHASKA: Two Twelve Medical Center | 111 Hundertmark Rd., Suite 410 · Chaska, MN 55318 EDEN PRAIRIE: 800 Prairie Center Dr., Suite 130 · Eden Prairie, MN 55344 MINNETONKA: 14001 Ridgedale Dr., Suite 200 · Minnetonka, MN 55305 WACONIA: 560 S Maple St., Suite 220 · Waconia, MN 55387 FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / WAC O N I A
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ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER
Valentine’s Day is Near (Hint, Hint!) SPREAD THE LOVE WITH THESE HEARTFELT GIFTS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES
Fo r hi m : Bode Gray’s and The Brass Hat Dive Shop branded gear. Serve up some love with a T-shirt, hat, or whiskey glass where your best guy gets his favorite pizza and Old Fashioneds.
For the be stie : Time together. Pick up your trusty sidekick and head out for dinner, your treat! Garage Bar and Bowl for a burger and fries or Vandy’s Grille for Spicy Shrimp Scampi.
For h er : Style from Shop Chicks. Pour time and love into an outfit for your lady, picked by you! Cozy sweaters, gorgeous earrings, and more. Need some help? Their friendly employees would love to collaborate!
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Fo r t he k i ds :
For the te ache r:
A Nice Shirt, Co. goodie bag. Put together a little goodie bag with stickers, bath bombs, and themed playdough. The kids will feel the love (and fun!) oozing from the bag, slime style.
Waconia Chamber Bucks. No apples this year! Tell Mr. Teacher Extraordinaire you appreciate him with Waconia Chamber Bucks which can be used at all Chamber member businesses… and there are a lot!
G IF T GU ID E | SHO P P I NG
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