5/8 | SIU Dance Team Tour 6p Chumlys, 7p Heldts, 7:45p Fatboyz 8:45p 212 Tavern, 9:30p Hoppers
5/9 | Sister Saturday Back Lot Party 8-11a TravisMathew Trunk Show, Chair Massage, Live DJ, and more
6/9 | Strength + Hormones: Weight training series for women 50+ Tue/Thur 6:30-7:30a (June 9- July 30)
6/10 | Build to Dance: 7 week series “Strength, conditioning, and tech for youth dancers”
6-12th grade Wed/Fri 7-7:45a 2-5th grade Wed/Fri 9:15-10a (June 10- July 31)
At
There’s something truly special about taking a moment to recognize the women in our lives who make the world more vibrant and beautiful. Whether it's our mothers, daughters, friends, or colleagues, these women are often the silent forces that shape our days and make life richer.
With Mother’s Day this month, our thoughts naturally turn to all those incredible women—biological mothers and mother figures alike—who have made an unforgettable impact on us. It’s the teachers, the friends, the neighbors, and the family members who offer their love, wisdom, and support in countless ways.
In our community, there is certainly no shortage of impressive women. Just recently, I had the pleasure of hosting an Appreciation Event at Schram Vineyards for our local businesses owned by women. One of my favorite parts of this job is connecting with and championing these incredible women. From movers and shakers to makers and builders, these women bring so much to the table, both seen and unseen. They balance busy work obligations with even busier family schedules, and they do so effortlessly. Not only are they innovative and bold businesswomen, but they are also kind and caring humans. Their contributions, often behind the scenes, create beauty and impact that cannot be replicated.
Take a moment this month to recognize the women in your life. It can be your mother, your wife, your daughter(s), or even a good friend. Send a text, make a phone call, or arrange a video call. It’s a simple but powerful way to brighten someone’s day and remind them how much they’re appreciated and loved.
Here’s to celebrating the women who make life so much more meaningful. Happy Mother’s Day and cheers to the ladies who inspire us every day!
MATT SHAEFFER, PUBLISHER @WACONIACITYLIFESTYLE
May 2026
PUBLISHER
Matt Shaeffer | matt.shaeffer@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Lauren Beaubaire | lauren.beaubaire@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Emily McKeever, David Scheller, Lauren Beaubaire, Kali Kasorzyk
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Kate Ann Photography
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
Celebrating
Trust
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
Dr. Andrew Akhaphong, Mackenthun’s Fine Foods’ Registered Dietitian, was recently honored with the Outstanding Preceptor Award from the Minnesota Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. This award honors preceptors—dietitians who mentor and guide students during their training— for excellent teaching, guidance, and leadership in dietetics programs. Andrew is known for his approachable nature, wealth of expertise, and how he makes healthy living feel achievable for every family. Congratulations, Andrew!
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Meet Jess. She’s your go-to Minnesota gal, sharing a love for local travel and hidden gems across the state. Recently featured on Twin Cities Live, she spotlighted the charm of Waconia this April. From small towns to unforgettable experiences, her content highlights what makes Minnesota special. Stay tuned for an exciting giveaway that is coming this July for the “Explore” issue. You won’t want to miss it! Be sure to follow @the_minnesota_gal on Instagram.
Now you can get the same cozy atmosphere and delicious goodies (and then some!) that you enjoyed at Bakery On Main, it’ll just be Bakery “Off” Main. Bakery on Main is now located in Bode Gray’s with an exciting reimagining of the bakery experience–think more pastry, dessert, and hot breakfast options. Plus, a new BOM lunch menu will be added to the mix! Visit them at their new location at 125 W. 1st St.
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CELEBRATING THE VOICES AND VISIONS OF WOMEN SHAPING OUR LOCAL COMMUNITIES AT THIS YEAR'S WOMEN & WINE EVENT
The ladies of Lake Minnetonka, Waconia, and Victoria came together at this year’s City Lifestyle Women & Wine event hosted at Schram Vineyards. Women business leaders mixed and mingled for an evening of meaningful conversation, connection, and, of course, great wine. Between sips and plenty of laughter, we had the opportunity to learn more about this remarkable group of women, their journeys, the challenges they’ve overcome, and the passion that drives them as entrepreneurs and community leaders.
KRISTI CLAY, OWNER OF PET REVOLUTION
Where do you like to hang out in the community, and why?
“Winchester & Rye. The owner, Kim, and her whole family are always in there working hard, and I love supporting that! I also love Vic’s Bar and Grill.”
Who inspired or mentored you on your entrepreneurial journey?
“The supervisor at my very first job taught me to dream big and start planning for success before success ever happened. My mother was also influential, teaching me to be thoughtful, plan, and follow through. I hope every young person has someone like these women in their life and can surround themselves with the right people.”
JILL DAWSON, AGENCY OWNER AND PRESIDENT AT DAWSON & ASSOCIATES OF AMERICAN FAMILY INSURANCE
Where do you like to hang out in the community, and why?
“Schram Vineyards. This is one of my favorite places, especially since they expanded with their new building. Lola’s Lakehouse is also a favorite when summer comes around.”
What advice would you give to other women entrepreneurs?
“Just go for it. I think a lot of women have imposter syndrome, and it holds a lot of women back. My advice would be, don’t get paralysis over analysis. You could wait forever and never be ready, so go for it and know you’ll figure it out.”
LAHOUD, PLAN WITH KAYLEEN, STATE FARM INSURANCE AGENT
Where do you like to hang out in the community, and why?
“Lola’s Lakehouse. I love to be on the lake. Watching the sunset. Eating great food with good friends. It’s the best place. The Bakery on Main is also my favorite go-to spot to get a coffee for me and my team.”
When it comes to your business, what is a word or phrase you live by?
“Family. I want my clients to feel comfortable and my team to feel like they’re family. I always strive to create an atmosphere that feels like home—where we’re there for each other, just as we would be for our own families.”
ASHLEY NEUTGENS, MARKETING MANAGER & COORDINATOR AT SOMETHING TO CROW ABOUT
Where do you like to hang out in the community, and why?
“Crow River Winery. We went there as a whole team for a Murder Mystery night, and it was so fun between the great food and the theatrics.”
What advice would you give to other women entrepreneurs?
“Speaking for Jenny Christensen, who is the owner and entrepreneur, she would say, ‘Work your butt off.’ You’ll meet people who don’t believe in you and push back, but don’t let that stop you from achieving your goals and dreams. You’re capable of what you set your mind to.”
SUZ STIYER, OWNER OF ZOOMIN GROOMIN CARVER COUNTY
Where do you like to hang out in the community, and why?
“I come to Schram Vineyards a lot, and Sizzle Street is one of my absolute favorites. I also like to hang out at my 20-acre farm, where I board horses. I host riding lessons
“YOU COULD WAIT FOREVER AND NEVER BE READY, SO GO FOR IT AND KNOW YOU’LL FIGURE IT OUT.”
with friends, and then afterward we socialize, enjoying some wine, crackers, and brie. It’s a great time.”
Who inspired or mentored you on your entrepreneurial journey?
“That would be Kelly Wyatt, the person who got me into the Zoomin Groomin business. He encouraged me and was always there to answer my questions. He was a very positive and patient person while I decided whether I wanted to become an entrepreneur. My parents also. They’ve always said, ‘You can do what you want to do.’ Having those kinds of people who are a positive influence helps so much.”
Where do you like to hang out in the community, and why?
“Island View Golf Club, because I love to play golf with my husband or friends, and I also play in the Ladies League, which is a ton of fun.”
Can you share a defining moment that shaped your path as an entrepreneur?
“When I was working for someone else and putting in so much effort, I saw that I could really be doing it instead for myself. I was doing the same work I do now—but giving away my time, energy, money, and expertise. I thought, why not open my own fitness business and athleisure store?
Managing it all has its pros and cons, but it’s also the most rewarding experience.”
DONNA TARANTINO-WALKER, MARKETING MANAGER FOR HLI HOME RENOVATORS
Where do you like to hang out in the community, and why?
“We’re at the Noble Lion once a week. Sometimes twice! In the summer, we love heading to Sovereign Estate and Schram Vineyards.”
What advice would you give to other women entrepreneurs?
“You have to be committed and focused on what you want to accomplish. Make it a point to sit down and create a plan. It doesn’t matter what type of business you have; you can’t do it by the seat of your pants. You need a strategy and to understand the purpose of why you want it. Without that, you’ll struggle.”
WWW.PETEVOLUTION.COM/MN-CHANHASSEN 880 WEST 78TH ST, CHANHASSEN, MN 55317 952-474-1204 Nail Trims
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Appointment Needed
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ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER
Trust us, here’s what she’ll love from these favorites
Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms and mother figures out there! We hope it’s a day—or heck, a weekend—where you’re pampered from head to toe by your loved ones. Moms wear many hats, and one of them is offering guidance, whether it’s helping navigate challenges or simply being a listening ear. It’s a responsibility that many moms find rewarding–sharing wisdom and teaching life skills. But it can also be a little draining, and sometimes moms just want someone else to take the lead. So, when the family asks, “What do you want for Mother’s Day?”, just nonchalantly slide this gift guide across the table and let it do the talking.
1. You can’t go wrong with any of the signature services at Awaken Aesthetics and Wellness. Buy her a gift card, set up a consultation with Quincee or Tonya at this Board Certified Nurse Practitioner-owned clinic, and watch her unwind and feel fabulous. Awakenaestheticsandwellness.com
2. Dynamic Drips has mom’s overall wellness covered this Mother’s Day. Sign her up for a Drop Dead Gorgeous infusion of vitamins for glowing skin or the Immuni-Tea to supercharge her immune system. There’s a menu of 12 options to choose from for the person who never skips a beat caring for you. Dynamicdrips.com
3. Love comes in many forms, including wine from Schram Vineyards. Does she enjoy refreshing, easy-to-sip wines? Choose the Sparkling Estate Rosé. Are vibrant flavors her thing? She’ll
delight in the Oaked Frontenac Blanc. Is she a savor a glass at the end of the day kind of gal? Their Bonfire will be just right. But, of course, you can’t go wrong with any of their irresistible blends. Schramvineyards.com
4. Shape It Up Fitness is a dynamic, high-energy fitness boutique that mom will love, and a punch card is a great way for her to try their full calendar of classes. Or maybe she’d rather you take her shopping for some stylish, comfortable athleisure gear. They have that too! Shapeitupfitnessmn.com
5. Treat her to a little luxury with a HydraFacial from Something to Crow About. This is a gentle, non-invasive treatment designed to bring out her skin’s natural glow. It’s relaxing, soothing, and will leave her with radiant results. Somethingtocrowabouthealth.com
6. The Stash of Waconia makes it easy to spoil mom. Walking into this stylish boutique, you’ll know the perfect gift resides there. An Everlasting Candle is a unique and more beautiful way to enjoy a candle, plus, it’s an elegant addition to any room in her house. Thestashstyle.com
7. Sometimes, time together sharing a delicious meal is the most meaningful gift, and gathering around a table at Winchester & Rye makes it even more special. This restaurant and whiskey bar combines relaxation and elegance with elevated, delectable fare. winchesterandrye.com
HEALTHIER MOMS. HEALTHIER BABIES.
HEALTH PARTNERSHIPS FOR LIFE
ARTICLE BY DAVID SCHELLER
“As first-time parents, this program helped us in learning a lot of new things, which made our pregnancy journey beautiful. The care provided by doctors and staff was compassionate.”
– New Mom A
“We would 100 percent do this program again! With it being our first, we were brought so much comfort going through this with parents on our same timeline.”
– New Mom B
“We loved it! My husband is also so happy he was included. We both learned so much in preparation for our first baby.”
– New Mom C
“We thought the program was excellent! It made us a lot more comfortable being able to discuss things as a group of couples going through the same experience.”
– New Mom D
“The program was great! We learned a lot and it made us confident and excited for parenthood.”
– New Mom E
The reviews are unanimous. Premier Women’s Health of Minnesota OBGYN West’s inaugural Premier Prenatal Collaborative is a resounding success, with nine beautiful babies, nine healthy mothers, and nine relieved fathers to show for it.
“I’m glad I could take your call!” Dr. Jennifer Smolinski’s voice rang out from my phone. “I was called to the hospital for an urgent delivery just a couple of hours ago. Fortunately, the baby seemed to be in a hurry to make his grand appearance.
“The deliveries I perform for my patients are only the culminating moments of the time we share together. That’s why my husband Dr. Matthew Bigos and I love being with OBGYN West. We develop genuine, lasting relationships with our patients – often before they so much as think of conceiving, and long after they have become moms. We’re here for the whole journey!
“That’s what motivated us to begin offering the Premier Prenatal Collaborative: a physician-led eight-session program combining one-on-one care with group classes. It helps momsto-be and their partners gain greater confidence, develop a deeper understanding of prenatal and postpartum care, and form friendships with other parents looking forward to similar due dates.
“The Premier Prenatal Collaborative may be the first program of its kind in the Twin Cities, but it isn’t totally our invention. It’s based on a model of prenatal care that is already popular throughout the East Coast, and which I observed firsthand during my own residency in Pennsylvania. Studies have shown it to improve birth outcomes, including reduced risk of premature birth, cesarean delivery, and emergency/triage visits.
“Better yet, gathering as many as 20 parents-to-be per program allows us to spend substantially more time with each than routine care alone would have. And while unavoidable circumstances often require doctors like my husband and I to cancel one-on-one appointments, Premier Prenatal Collaborative sessions are set in stone. Participants will see a physician at each and every one.
“Each monthly, 90-minute session is divided into multiple phases. The first is dedicated to individual consultations, during which we check vitals and answer any private questions participants might have. Next comes the group presentation, in which we discuss topics that pertain to the gestational age shared by every expecting mother in the room. We finish with group activities, or a special guest speaker followed by audience Q and A. For example, we welcomed a nutritionist to address the subject of healthy diet and weight gain during pregnancy, as well as a lactation expert to speak about all the different types of breast pumps that are available.
“Participants in the first-ever Premier Prenatal Collaborative took peace of mind from learning which pregnancy symptoms are perfectly normal or deserving of medical intervention. They understood that they weren’t alone if they experienced common complications such as gestational diabetes, kidney stones, preeclampsia, mastitis, low milk production, or postpartum depression, as well as what they could do to realize healthier, more comfortable transitions into motherhood.
“Every participant put their new knowledge to great use. One presented to the hospital upon recognizing the signs of preterm labor at 34 weeks. A second identified the signs of preeclampsia, and quickly presented to the hospital before her blood pressures became severe. Another needed a C-section – a procedure I understand all too well, having received it myself on three separate occasions – and expressed feeling confident knowing precisely what to expect.
“My husband and I delivered every baby belonging to our first cohort of Premier Prenatal Collaborative participants. Parents’ impressions of the program were universally positive, which excites us for the sessions we will soon begin hosting for those with upcoming due dates. If you expect to be expecting in 2027, then now isn’t too soon to sign up for the Premier Prenatal Collaborative at OBGYN West’s Chaska clinic!”
Visit PremierWomensHealthMN.com to learn more about OBGYN West’s health partnerships for life, or call (952) 249-2000 to book an appointment at any of their four clinics throughout the west metro.
Find connection, support, and renewed hope at The Grief Club of Minnesota
ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER
Loss touches more children than we often realize. And while grief is never easy, experiencing it at a young age can be especially overwhelming. When the loss of a loved one comes far too early, having the right support can make all the difference. And that’s why The Grief Club of Minnesota, which provides a space for grieving children, teens, young adults, and their caregivers to share, connect, and heal, isn’t just meaningful but essential. It’s a reminder that no one has to navigate grief alone.
For co-founders Sarah Kroenke and Cara Mearns-Thompson, this work is deeply personal. As a teen, Sarah experienced the death of her mother, which changed the course of her life and influenced her professional career. Cara’s own experiences with the death of her sister and father by the age of 20 left an equally lasting mark on her journey and led her to this work with the same depth of commitment. Throughout their careers as licensed mental health counselors—nearly 55 years combined working in hospice care, schools, private practices, and crisis teams—they’ve witnessed the same heartbreaking reality: families navigating death were often left without consistent, specialized support.
By leading national speaking engagements and trainings on childhood bereavement, Sarah and Cara traveled across the country, giving them the opportunity to visit many grief centers along the way. Through these experiences, they saw what was possible and knew Minnesota needed something similar. From this vision, The Grief Club of Minnesota was born, grounded in a mission to create a space where grief isn’t carried alone, but navigated with support, compassion, and community.
In its first year—just five years ago—The Grief Club provided 397 visits through a whole-family approach to care. By 2025, that number had grown to 4,000 visits in a single year—reflecting both the increasing need and the deep trust families place in this space for healing.
The organization supports children, teens, and young adults up to age 25 following the death of a parent or sibling. It also serves adults who are grieving the death of a child, or a spouse or partner, while raising children within that same age range. The Grief Club offers a full continuum of grief support, including individual and family counseling, peer groups, family grief series,
therapeutic camps, special events, crisis and trauma support, and community education.
Sarah goes on to explain that every service is delivered by licensed mental health practitioners with specialized expertise in grief and trauma. What truly sets them apart, however, is their commitment to making care accessible. All services are provided at no cost to families, and insurance is not billed— ensuring that support is available without financial burden.
“Grief has a way of making people feel deeply alone,” but not at The Grief Club. Here, there’s calm, compassion, and hope for families who have experienced an out-of-order death. Stories are shared, lives are honored, and individuals feel seen and understood. Those who have experienced the death of a loved one can process their feelings with a licensed counselor, through different modalities, alongside others who understand. Here, families can work through their grief, develop coping skills, and find a path forward. When grief is carried without support, it can take a lasting toll— both immediately and over time—on emotional well-being. Having a place to turn to, like The Grief Club, can make all the difference.
Building this healing space has become one of the most meaningful chapters in Cara and Sarah’s lives. They share a deep commitment to supporting families after the death of a loved one, bringing together complementary strengths, decades of experience, and a unified vision for the work. What began as an idea has grown into a trusted resource serving countless families across Minnesota.
“Starting a nonprofit is a journey of deep commitment, reflected in the remarkable growth The Grief Club has experienced. Witnessing the impact of this work on families across the state is both a gift and a profound privilege—grounded in the trust families place in us during their most tender moments.” As The Grief Club continues to expand its reach, it remains guided by a simple belief: every child and family in Minnesota navigating grief deserves a place to turn—where they are met with compassion, understanding, and ultimately, feel less alone.
To learn more about services, upcoming events, or ways to support the mission, visit griefclubmn.org
You can also follow The Grief Club on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn to stay connected, share resources, and help spread awareness.
Thoughtful details that make the season shine—so you can spend less time planning and more time celebrating
There’s a lot of pomp and circumstance in the air this time of year. Celebrations are around every corner, sendoffs at every turn, and there’s a quiet urge to soak it all in. Graduation season is about goodbyes, new beginnings, and everything in between—oh, and all the feelings that come with it. To allow for more time to squeeze your senior just a little tighter, host a few more solo cry sessions in the pantry, and fully embrace just how darn proud you are, we offer you this Guide to Graduation. Consider it our gift to you–your go-to for making the most of this unforgettable season.
Need a quick trim before graduation? You’ll want to be ready for any cell phone or professional camera that comes your way. And how do you keep your hair intact under that cap and tassel when it’s time for the big toss? Leave it to the experts at Waconia Barbers and The Beauty Room. They’ll get your locks prepped and polished for graduation day. waconiabarbers.com, facebook.com/beautyroomwaconia1/
In Minnesota, May temperatures are a mixed bag. For that perfect under the commencement gown look, stop into The Stash and Shop Chicks Boutique. They’ll help you find a comfortable, stylish put-together look. Or maybe you’d like to show some school spirit! Spirit wear is in abundance at Nice Shirt Co. All three local shops can also help you create a flawless graduation party ensemble. thestashstyle.com, shopchicksco.com, niceshirtco.com
For timeless gifts and meaningful keepsakes for your favorite senior, Infinity Diamond Jewelers offers pieces that will be cherished for years to come. Or for a more relaxed feel, visit Lakeside Loft, where you’ll find something for
every graduate on your list. infinitydiamondjewelers. com, facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573745385629
Franklin Printing is your go-to for custom invitations, celebratory yard signs, and heartfelt thank you cards. franklinprintinginc.com
To check essentials like tents, tables, chairs, linens, and fun extras like a popcorn machine (or, just saying, a bouncy house), lean on K and K Fun Time to do it right. kkfuntime.com
Bring back a little dose of childhood with The Ice Cream Princess parked front row at your party. Delicious, charming, and fun for you and your guests. theicecreamprincess.com
If you want to dial up the ambiance at your party, give Main St. Floral and Victoria Rose Floral a call. They can help with school color centerpieces, mini bouquets, and other arrangements sure to bring your celebration to life. mainstfloral.com, victoriarosefloral.com
To customize your menu based on all your grads’ favorites, you’ll want to look into what Buddy Boy Catering has to offer. Besides amazing food, their specialty is making your day unforgettable. You can also hire Sweet Wink’s to roll in and serve up crowd-pleasing classics. sweetwinksfood.com
A memorable graduation party isn’t complete without some gather-worthy sweets to pass around. Bakery on Main delivers its congratulations through scrumptious cookies, cupcakes, and other delectable treats. bakeryonmainmn.com
Custom cakes, cookies, pastries, and dessert trays— and so much more— are where Mackenthun’s festive spirit shines. mackenthuns.com/waconia-gatherings
ARTICLE BY KALI KASORZYK
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
The power of taste, trust, and the courage to “just start.”
She didn’t have a business plan, a media budget, or even a name anyone could pronounce. What Becky Hillyard had was taste, a young family, and the instinct to just start. Today, her lifestyle brand Cella Jane commands an audience the size of Vogue’s, she’s nine collections strong with Splendid, and she’s built it all while raising three kids — refusing to sacrifice one for the other. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Becky shares what it really takes to build a brand, a career, and a life you love. Read the highlights below, then scan the QR code for the full conversation.
Q: WHEN DID YOU KNOW CELLA JANE WAS MORE THAN A HOBBY?
A: Two moments. Women started emailing me saying they bought something I recommended and felt amazing — asking me to help them find a dress for a wedding. That felt incredible. Then I looked at my affiliate numbers for one month and realized I could cover our mortgage. I thought, I can actually do this. I never set out to build a business. I started it because I genuinely loved it.
Q: WHAT WAS THE BIGGEST RISK YOU EVER TOOK WITH THE BRAND?
A: Designing my own collection. It’s easy to point at items on a website and say I love these. But to create something from scratch, put your name on it, and wait to see if people connect with it — that’s terrifying. I had an incredible partner in Splendid, and women loved the pieces. It was the biggest risk and the biggest accomplishment.
Q: HOW HAS INFLUENCER MARKETING CHANGED SINCE YOU STARTED?
A: When I started, brands didn’t know whether to take it seriously. Now it’s a legitimate line item in their marketing budgets — sometimes bigger than TV. Because what we’ve built is trust. People trust a real recommendation from someone they follow far more than a commercial. There’s no question about it now.
Q: YOU’RE A MOM OF THREE RUNNING A FULL BRAND. WHAT DOES YOUR DAY ACTUALLY LOOK LIKE?
A: I try to get up at five and not hit snooze — that first hour before the house wakes up is the most productive, most peaceful hour of my day. Then it’s all hands on deck with the kids and school drop-off. After that I work — planning content, connecting with my team, editing. After pickup, the day shifts completely and it’s all about them. I’ve learned to protect both halves fiercely, because both matter.
Q: WHAT WOULD YOU TELL SOMEONE WHO WANTS TO BUILD SOMETHING OF THEIR OWN BUT KEEPS WAITING?
A: Don’t wait. Don’t wait for the perfect camera, the right strategy, or enough followers. We find every excuse to stay comfortable. Just start, be consistent, and be authentically yourself. The right people will find you — and they’ll stay.
This conversation is just the beginning. Becky goes deeper on the risks that almost stopped her, the design process behind her latest Splendid collection, and what she’d tell her 2012 self today. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on the Share the Lifestyle Podcast.
“Trust is the only metric that actually compounds.”
— Becky Hillyard
MAY 2ND
Schram Vineyards | 2:30 PM
Saddle up for the Kentucky Derby Party at Schram Vineyards! Catch all the action on their Jumbotron, watching the most exciting two minutes in sports. So, dust off your fascinators and don your dapper duds for an afternoon of sophistication and excitement. There will be a Best Dressed contest, Derby-themed beverages, and live music from the Sonic Dream Jazz Trio! Get tickets: schramvineyards.com/kentuckyderby
MAY 9TH
Parley Lake Winery | 12:00 PM
Celebrate the start of spring and warmer weather at Parley Lake Winery's Apple Blossom Festival! Admission is free, and there will be something for everyone, including great food and wine discounts along with local vendors, and live music from Traveled Ground between 3:306pm. Bring the whole family for a mini photo session, tractor rides, and more! parleylakewinery.com/events/2026/5/9/apple-blossom-festival
MAY 9TH
Downtown Waconia | 9:00 AM
Put on your best pink outfit and enjoy deals and steals all over town with Sister Saturday! With specials at shops, bars, and restaurants, grab your best gal pals and make it a day of shopping and dining. There's an interactive twist on the Swag Bags this year—pick up a bag and stroll from shop to shop to collect goodies from over 30 participating businesses.
MAY 13TH
Firemen's Park, Downtown Chaska | 4:00 PM
Don't miss one of the tastiest events of the year at the annual Taste of Chaska! Taste test your way through great dishes and beverages from our local restaurateurs, breweries, and wineries. And the best part? Free admission! It's always a good time and a great way to try out a bunch of great local restaurants at once. Come hungry! business.swmetrochamber.com/events/details/41st-annual-taste-of-chaska-16402
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MAY 14TH
On-Water Boat Show at Lola’s
Lola's Lakehouse | 3:00 PM
Kick off the 2026 boating season with MarineMax at Lola’s Lakehouse for an exclusive on-water experience! Step off the dock and onto the latest models from the industry's most trusted brands. Whether you're looking for a high-performance surf boat, a luxury pontoon, or a sleek cruiser, their team will be on hand to help you find the perfect fit. More details: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ on-water-boat-show-at-lolas-lakehouse-marinemax-rogers-excelsiortickets-1983481110395
MAY 16TH
Victoria in Bloom
Downtown Victoria | 9:00 AM
This free community event invites locals and visitors alike to enjoy a full day of shopping, dining, live music, and festive spring-themed activities, all in support of small businesses and local makers. Local restaurants and pop-ups will be offering seasonal sips, sweet treats, and savory bites to keep you refreshed and fueled for the springtime fun. Four-legged friends are also welcome!
