Waconia, MN March 2026

Family Owned in Carver County

The Heart of Home

Home. Just four letters, yet it holds so much meaning. It’s our sanctuary, our foundation, and the place where life unfolds. Home is where we begin and end each day, where our lives take shape, and where our hearts find rest. While the specifics of what “home” looks like vary for each of us, its significance is universal.

Personally, I find myself away from my home quite often. But being “out and about,” meeting with such great people makes it all worthwhile. I continue to be so impressed with how active and involved this community is with all the fun and festive events. Make no mistake though… even though I love being active and involved as well, my home is still my home, and I cherish the moments I get to relax and unwind.

Author Wendy Wunder captured it perfectly: “The magic thing about home is that it feels good to leave, and it feels even better to come back.” With that in mind, this month’s issue focuses on what makes home special— from the warmth of shared meals and thoughtfully designed spaces to the people who bring it all to life.

This month, we had the privilege of connecting with local businesses and individuals who shape this community. Their stories highlight the creativity, resilience, and heart that make this area feel like home. We hope that as you turn these pages, you’ll be inspired to strengthen your connections — whether within your neighborhood, your city, or your own walls.

Many of our readers tell us they hold onto this magazine long after the month on its cover, treasuring it as a piece of home — whether as coffee table art or a source of inspiration. That’s a tradition we’re proud to uphold, and we remain committed to delivering the value you expect each month.

Thank you for welcoming us into your homes. Here’s to making this month a celebration of the spaces and people that matter most.

MATT SHAEFFER, PUBLISHER

March 2026

PUBLISHER

Matt Shaeffer | matt.shaeffer@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Lauren Beaubaire | lauren.beaubaire@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Emily McKeever, Alison Lee, Lauren Beaubaire

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Nicole Jean - Photographic Artist

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Mary Albers

LAYOUT DESIGNER Meredith Wilson

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1-7: It was a blast at this year’s 5th Annual Waconia DandyLions Frozen Fairway Open! The event wouldn’t have been possible without the help of the Waconia Men’s Lions Club and main event sponsors, Island View Golf Club and Green Fox Grille. Even though the temps dipped well below zero, it was an incredible turnout at Paradise Commons with live music from Mike Bustin, putting challenge, raffles, great food and drinks, a silent auction featuring more than 15 local items, and the crowd-favorite costume contest — congratulations to Team Lorax for taking home the title of Best Costume!

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business monthly

Congratulations to Award-Winning Brush Dental

Congratulations to Brush Dental! They were recently recognized as 2025’s Best Dentist and Best Orthodontist through the Best of the West Lakes Area contest, as well as Best Dentist through the Best of Carver County contest. Brush Dental is a premier family-oriented dental studio where comfort and outstanding care, and service come together for a truly exceptional experience.  Visit them for general dentistry, teeth whitening, Invisalign, and more. www.brushdentalstudio.com

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2025 Business Excellence Award Winners Announced

The Waconia Chamber of Commerce’s Business Excellence Awards celebrate individuals and businesses that demonstrate exceptional commitment, innovation, and service in the community and are nominated by Waconia Chamber members and the community. The 2025 winners are: Spirit of Community: Dee DeLange, Waconia Brewing Company, Community Service Impact: Waconia Lions Club, Golden Apple Award: Mike Jensen, Waconia Public Schools, Business Person of the Year: Mike Phelps, Ridgeview Hospitals and Clinics. Learn about each award here! https://www. destinationwaconia.org/chamber/programs-events/annual-meeting/

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Your Vision, Beautifully Built by Artistic Visions Cabinetry

Since 1983, Artistic Visions Cabinetry has prided itself on the mission: “Keeping Old World craftsmanship alive through work of exceptional quality and beauty.” This is accomplished through their team’s commitment to personalized customer service, hands-on craftsmanship, and state-of-the-art technology, all while offering exceptional value. Whether you’re planning new construction, a remodel, or an update, Artistic Visions Cabinetry will work with you every step of the way. Get a quote today! https://www.avcabinets.com/contact

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We

Services Including:

Botox/Dysport

Sculptra/Dermal Filler

Moxi/BBL Laser

Laser Hair Removal

SkinPen Microneedling Chemical Peels

SKINWAVE Hydrafacial

Vitamin Injections

Hormone Optimization

Acne Consultations

WILFORD: Redefining THE RESIDENTIAL EXPERIENCE

ARTICLE BY ALISON LEE PHOTOGRAPHY BY NICOLE JEANPHOTOGRAPHIC ARTIST

Location is everything. It subtly shapes our lives through the opportunities we find, the access we have, the perspectives we gain, and the identities we form. It’s a powerful force we rarely notice until we set two places side by side to compare. It’s also what guides us to choose that one place we’re proud to call home.

This spring, Waconia will open its doors to Wilford – an upscale residential community where luxury and local charm meet. Tucked just off Lake Waconia and nestled in the heart of downtown, Wilford is designed to become a sanctuary for 92 couples, families, and individuals of all ages seeking a refined style of living without losing the warmth of a small-town atmosphere. It’s a new place to call home, one that raises the bar for apartment living in Waconia.

The Wilford was thoughtfully envisioned to enhance the three-block area it now anchors.

“THIS SPRING, WACONIA WILL OPEN ITS DOORS to Wilford – AN UPSCALE RESIDENTIAL COMMUNITY WHERE luxury and local charm MEET.”

From the very beginning, the goal was to create a community that offered its residents an elevated way of living. That vision comes to life in every detail, from the striking exterior architecture and the robust amenity package to the 33 intentionally crafted floor plans and the nearby conveniences afforded by its location. At its core, this development was built to provide beautiful, vibrant housing that continues the legacy of Will and Euna Yetzer and their enduring commitment to the community.

The Wilford was named after Mr. Wilfred (Will) Yetzer. If you’re not already familiar with the Yetzer family, Will and Euna were both born and raised in Waconia and made it their home throughout their entire lives. Will became one of

Waconia’s most prominent citizens and had a large hand in helping shape much of what is modern-day Waconia. You may already know the Yetzer furniture, flooring, and home store, but Will’s impact on the community goes far beyond that. He played a key role in developing three apartment complexes, secured the land that made Island View Golf Course possible, and spearheaded the efforts to establish a local hospital –the facility we now know as Ridgeview Medical Center. Will’s impact on the community is one that will continue to be felt for years, even decades to come. The naming of this new apartment reflects his significant contributions, service, and goodwill to the community.

“WILFORD IS DESIGNED TO BECOME a sanctuary FOR 92 COUPLES, FAMILIES, AND INDIVIDUALS OF ALL AGES SEEKING A refined style of living WITHOUT LOSING THE WARMTH OF A small-town atmosphere .”

Step foot inside the doors of the Wilford, and you might notice that the community sets itself apart from others. A long list of amenities for its residents, and the units fill the five stories. To highlight some of these attractions, you can expect to see a complimentary coffee bar in the lobby, along with spaces to work or network. An indoor golf simulator and gaming lounge, a state-of-the-art fitness center that includes a dry sauna and a cold plunge. For those with fur babies, there’s a private dog spa and an on-site dog run. Two levels of reserved underground parking. And with an anticipated opening date in May, following the polar vortex we like to call winter, you’ll find an expansive 2,400 square foot sky lounge and deck on the fourth floor with a large warming kitchen, fireplace, outdoor games, grills, a pizza oven, and of course, the incredible panoramic view of Lake Waconia. Beyond the beauty of this outdoor space, the property showcases sweeping east-to-west views, giving you the perfect vantage point to enjoy vibrant sunrises and glowing sunsets on warm summer evenings and crisp autumn mornings.

Many of the floor plans feature thoughtfully designed one-bedroom homes that make excellent use of every square foot and windows for natural light. If you’re looking for more room, you’ll also find a selection of two-bedroom layouts, as well as spacious 2- and 3-bedroom penthouse residences. Wilford is excited to offer so many different floor plans to accommodate the various needs and desires of its residents, with beautiful views of the lake and downtown.

Wilford seeks to honor the legacy of Will and Euna Yetzer by continuing their tradition of building what the community truly needs. The team looks forward to welcoming those who are new to the area, as well as those simply stepping into a new chapter of life. They also hope the arrival of new residents will bring fresh energy to local businesses, supporting the customers and clients who help this community thrive — and who will soon call Wilford their home.

livewilfordwaconia.com

CALLING WACONIA HOME

Local partners share what makes this community feel like home

ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER

Home means different things to different people: safety, belonging, connection, and so much more. One visit to Waconia’s charming streets, and anyone will want to scoop up the nearest piece of real estate, if they haven’t already. One reason Waconia is such an amazing place to live is simple: the people are proud to call it theirs. Why? Let them tell you.

JILL DAWSON

Agency Owner and President at Dawson & Associates of American Family Insurance

Home, to me, means community, and in the Waconia and Victoria area, it truly shows. From school events and local businesses to parades and sports, people genuinely show up for one another. It offers the perfect balance: close to the Twin Cities, yet peaceful and grounded enough to raise a family, build a business, and put down lasting roots.

DR. JESSICA RADTKE MALTEZ

Owner and Doctor of Veterinary Medicine at Victoria Veterinary Hospital

To me, home is a place to both thrive and recharge! I’m happy to be a resident and business owner in the Victoria community. Our town has friendly neighborhoods, beautiful lakes and trails, and amazing access to open spaces. Calling Victoria home allows me easy access to choose how to enjoy my time, from being cozy and watching the snowfall with my family, to getting out for a run in nature! The bonus of being a business owner in the community is how supported I feel from the kind people here, both at work and in my neighborhood.

“Home, to me, means community, and in the Waconia and Victoria area, it truly shows. From school events and local businesses to parades and sports, people genuinely show up for one another.”

MEGAN VANEYLL

Owner of Shape It Up Fitness

I love calling Waconia home because I was born and raised here, and now I have the privilege of raising my family in the same community. From the golf course and the lake to the perfect downtown where my business is located, nothing beats seeing friendly faces everywhere and still making memories with my best friends from high school and their families.

ELEECE PINK

Owner of The Stash of Waconia

Home is a place where life slows down, and memories are made. I love Waconia because the lake views bring a sense of calm, the downtown shops are full of character, and the small-town traditions create a sense of belonging you can’t find anywhere else!

HEATHER REICHENBERGER

Real Estate Agent at RE/MAX Results

When I think of home, I think of comfort, a place to unwind at the end of the day, and gather with my family and friends. Why do I love calling Waconia home? After having my first child, I knew it would be a perfect place to raise a family. Even though I didn’t grow up here, it still gives me a true sense of belonging.

HOME TRENDS IN 2026

CHRISTY HAASKEN SCHULER FROM CHESTNUT REALTY SHARES

WHAT’S SHAPING HOMES IN THE YEAR AHEAD.

ARTICLE BY LAUREN BEAUBAIRE

New year. New home trends. From interior design shifts to a changing housing market, we chat with Christy Haasken Schuler, Realtor, Appraiser, GRI at Chestnut Realty, on what home trends you can expect to see in 2026.

In terms of interior design? We’re going cozy, comfy-chic in 2026.

“Warm tones and textured layers are the dominating home design trends that we’re seeing this year,” says Christy. “There’s a clear shift away from the grays, stark whites, and cool color palettes toward earthy, warmer tones like rich greens or sandy neutrals.” Christy also notes that dark,

heavy colors are giving way to softer hues, with light, natural shades like soft tans taking center stage.

“Layers and texture are also defining this year. Think rugs on top of carpets and wallpapers that give your space more texture and depth,” explains Christy. Layered spaces bring warmth and offer homeowners more opportunities to express their personal style and create that cozy, lived-in feel.

“Living rooms, kitchens, and bathrooms offer the perfect opportunity to incorporate rich textures and a layered look,” recommends Christy. “Adding unique pieces, mixed patterns, and tactile design elements creates visual interest and great appeal.”

So, that statement artwork? The vintage, antique chair you love? Bring them home!

Another trend gaining momentum? Gold. The ’90s aren’t just back in fashion designs — they’re resurfacing in interior design too, reimagined in a more modern, elevated way. “I was surprised that gold is coming back,” says Christy. “But it’s not the exact same old brassy gold from the ‘90s, but a warmer, subtle gold that we’re seeing being used in new construction models on plumbing fixtures and as the hardware on cabinetry. I really like the look and so do my clients!”

Christy’s clients are also prioritizing homes with a good flow and intentional design that doesn’t waste space. It’s a shift that reflects the broader trends she’s seeing across the market, where wide-open floor plans are giving way to rooms with purpose.

“While clients are looking for homes with an open feel, they don’t want just one huge room,” says Christy. “Defined functional spaces that create that coziness and homey feel are definitely

what my clients are driving towards. Decent closets, pantries, and mudrooms are also always desirable.”

One of the most defining trends of 2026 that you’ll likely see is simply, well, simplicity. “Everyone wants simple,” says Christy. “Another way to put it is — not so dust-collecting designs. Softer and curved lines are on trend. For example, waterfall countertops (where the counter cascades down the side of an island to the floor) are clean, simple, and flow well.”

Along with interior design trends, the housing market is also undergoing a shift compared to recent years. “The market is balancing out, and we’re seeing more typical timeframes for homes on the market,” says Christy. “Sellers will definitely encounter more home sale contingencies and inspections this year. And for buyers, interest rates are coming down, which will also help move the market for sellers who were locked into those low rates.”

Christy’s recommendation for sellers preparing their homes for market: “Declutter, do paint touch-ups, and refresh anything that might have a dated look. If you’re remodeling, kitchens and bathrooms remain the biggest return on your investment. And for simple changes, updating lighting and lighting fixtures can make a huge impact. For buyers, the best advice is to get that pre-approval, so when you’re ready to act, we can.”

With the market balancing out and buyers and sellers finding their footing, 2026 is a year for thoughtful design and smart moves — blending warmth, style, and function to make your house “home.”

chestnutrealty.com

BEAUTIFUL PLACES YOU’LL LOVE TO LIVE IN

ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER

You wouldn’t be a Minnesotan if the idea of spring drawing near didn’t bring about a feeling of increased energy, and after the amount of snow we’ve had this year, a little excitement and wild abandon. As the fresh new season arrives, we create lists to better ourselves, and while we’re at it, finally decide to bring that long-planned house project to life. For over 25 years, the team at Iron River Construction has brought their enthusiasm and expertise to every expansion, upgrade, and re-imagination. They work to make clients’ homes feel inviting and functional this season and every season after.

Iron River Construction began as a detail-driven finish carpentry firm. Tracy Dahlin, owner and president, explains that as they grew and learned more, they became a general contractor capable of executing complex undertakings. “Some of our most meaningful projects are those that redesign existing spaces, making it easier for our clients to enjoy their homes more economically while avoiding the hassles of moving.” Decks are a great example of this, she says. “They make a big impact on quality of life and how people enjoy Minnesota’s warmer seasons.”

If you want creativity, beautiful spaces, and practical solutions, you’re speaking Iron River’s language. That awkward kitchen, that entryway that would work so much better with cabinets, hooks, and shelves — and the unfinished basement that could give your family a little breathing room — this is where they shine. “We prioritize needs versus wants, and simple design changes to get the most bang for your buck.” This approach begins with their remodeling division, where you meet the project manager who will be with you from start to finish. “There are no hand-offs in this process, which simplifies communication and guarantees the project you dreamed of.”

Victoria residents, Jill and Bill Stineman, can attest to this level of care. After experiencing Iron River’s exceptional work on their 2020 roof replacement, choosing them to take on their porch and deck project last year was an easy decision. “We knew they would deliver quality craftsmanship and excellent service,” Jill shares. Jill and Bill worked closely with their project manager, who provided estimates, drawings, and plans while helping them navigate design decisions. “He kept us informed at every stage of the project, so we always knew what to expect.” Now their family of four (five if you include dog, Lucy) relaxes and entertains in their addition all summer long. “The vinyl windows have extended its use into fall and winter, making it the perfect spot for watching football!”

Iron River’s team serves the Chaska and Minneapolis west metro area and loves the relationships they’ve developed over the years. Much of their work comes from repeat business — and they see everyone they work with as a partner, not just a client. Their goal is simple: helping you have the home you’ve always wanted.

Learn more and connect with the Iron River team at ironriverco.com

“Some of our most meaningful projects are those that redesign existing spaces, making it easier for our clients to enjoy their homes more economically while avoiding the hassles of moving.”

heathersresults.com

Waconia’s Hometown Agent!

Simple ways to spruce up your landscaping this spring from Waconia Landscaping Company

SMALL CHANGES, STUNNING YARD

ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER

They say you never get a second chance to make a first impression — and when it comes to your home, it doesn’t begin at the front door; it begins at the curb. Justin Goche, owner of Waconia Landscaping Company, says the shape, style, and texture of your front walk guide guests through a space that welcomes them into the home and sets the tone for everything that follows.

“As we look forward to spring, it’s good to have a plan in place,” Justin explains. He says a productive first step is to reflect on how your landscape looked last year and use that insight to strategize. The expert designers at Waconia Landscaping Company collaborate with clients to decide which areas to focus on, creating a space that reflects their personal style. But first, Justin says, it’s time to de-clutter. “Just as you plan to do spring cleaning inside your home, your yard and landscape should get the same treatment.” Cleaning up dead plants and leaf material in the beds and lawn, along with removing old, overgrown trees and shrubs, helps reduce maintenance and will set your yard up for a healthier growing season.

“When driving through a neighborhood, you’re likely drawn to homes with beautiful landscaping,” Justin shares. He notes that front-entry landscaping and maintenance have the biggest impact on a home's first impression and, when thoughtfully designed, help shape the house’s overall appeal. He goes on to say that layered plantings — starting with taller plants at the foundation and scaling down as you move out to the border of the beds — helps to craft and define the spaces, add color and seasonal interest, and really soften the rigidity of the structure. Hardscapes — like patios and walkways — and plantings, he points out, can be combined in numerous different ways to elevate the look of the home.

So, what can you do to bring your home from unnoticed to unforgettable? “Some of the biggest changes you can make are to replace old, overgrown plantings with new ones in the existing beds. Many plants and shrubs get “tired” over time, and simply swapping them out gives a fresh new vibe.” Refreshing your mulch and rock, he emphasizes, will also turn up the wow factor. “This year, I think we’ll start to see more vibrant colors and textures in landscapes and planters to make things really pop. Changing out massive mulch beds and installing more thoughtfully placed decorative rock is also a simple way to make your home’s exterior feel welcoming, inviting, and truly memorable.”

waconialandscapingco.com

“Just as you plan to do spring cleaning inside your home, your yard and landscape should get the same treatment.”

GET INSPIRED EAT & DRINK SHOP

LOCAL

YOUR DIGITAL DESTINATION FOR LOCAL LIVING

MARCH 1ST

Spring Flower Show

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

Minnesota Landscape Arboretum | 9:00 AM

The Arboretum’s annual Spring Flower Show is back! Get an early taste of spring with thousands of plants, including spring bulbs, orchids, and tropicals, on display in the Oswald Visitor Center and Snyder Building. This year’s show explores the theme of “water,” drawing inspiration from Minnesota’s lakes, rivers, and wetlands and the life they support. The flower show is included with general daily admission and runs through March 15.

MARCH 1ST

Coffee & Crafts

OMNI Brewery & Taproom in Victoria | 9:00 AM

Sip on a coffee flight (or any OMNI beverage you prefer) and tap into your creative side! Whether you’re a seasoned crafter, looking for a fun way to unwind, or wanting to pick up a new hobby, OMNI has you covered with beginner-friendly craft kits available for purchase, or bring your own project! Coffee & Crafts is every Sunday, 9am-2pm through March 29.

MARCH 19TH

Sourdough Class with The Sourdough Lady

Schram Vineyards | 6:00 PM

Sip, Knead, and Learn! Join The Sourdough Lady for a hands-on, beginner-friendly class. This cozy 2-hour workshop is the perfect introduction to the world of sourdough baking! You'll take home a jar of her 170-year-old San Francisco sourdough starter “Phoebe,” fed and active, your own dough, ready to finish fermenting, shape, and bake at home, plus a printed recipe card and starter care guide. Sign up: thesourdoughlady.net/sourdough-events-classes/?event=82426

MARCH 21ST

Luck O’ the Lake Run

Excelsior Brewing Company | 9:00 AM

Celebrate St. Patty’s with a 5k and 1-mile run at this year’s Luck O’ the Lake! Not much of a runner? Join in the Lazy Leprechaun Start with a 0.5k walk/run that ends with a beer and donut! Post-race party is at Excelsior Brewing Company, where you can enjoy a locally brewed beer and Olive’s Fresh Pizza Bar while watching the Rince na Griene Irish Dancers.

MARCH 21ST

Maple Syrup Festival

Baylor Regional Park | 10:00 AM

Tap into the fun and head to Baylor Regional Park for a sweet time! Experience the entire maple syruping process, from tapping the tree to boiling down the syrup. Then taste test the final product with their delicious Maple Syrup Brunch, including pancakes, bacon, oatmeal, coffee, and ice cream! $15/person. Children 2 and under are free. Learn more and get tickets at carvercountymn.gov/departments/ public-works/parks-recreation/general-parks-information/events-activities/annual-special-events

MARCH 27TH - 28TH

Waconia’s Show Choir Spectacular 2026

Waconia High School Performing Arts Center | 2:00 PM

The Waconia Show Choirs are back for another spectacular performance! Choir groups The Current, Power Company, and Spotlight Acts will perform. Show choir seniors will be honored at the last performance on Saturday. Friday's performance is at 7pm. Saturday's first show begins at 2pm and the last show starts at 7pm. Learn more and get your tickets: waconiachoirs.org/events/spectacular-exhibition/