Destination Directive of Wayzata takes a personal approach to luxury excursions
MINNETONKA BEACH LIVING AWAITS
Janet Boschwitz 612-804-8720
Discover lakeside living at its finest in this sought after lake community! This timeless Nantucketstyle home on 82 ft of Crystal Bay lakeshore will delight you with the bright, open spaces filled with natural light and panoramic lake views. Close to Dokota trail, Lafayette Club and more.
3 Ensuite Bedrooms | 4 Bathrooms | 3,704 Finished Sq ft.
The Cedar Roof Man
STRAIGHT TALK FROM STEVE KUHL
Let’s face it. Cedar roofs look great but owning one is a little scary. “Has it been damaged by hail?” “Will it blow off in a storm?” “I hear something chewing up there!” But despite what you may hear, your cedar roof is still one of the most beautiful and long-lasting products on the market. The only catch is you have take care of it.
That’s where I come in. My free, written estimate includes a thorough analysis of your roof. Bringing over 25 years of experience to the table, I will evaluate its’ condition to determine whether or not maintenance, repairs or replacement is the best option for you. Worst case scenario you get a free inspection from a true expert. Best case, we work our magic on your roof and add years to its lifespan.
In fact, Kuhl’s Contracting is looked to for the evaluation and restoration of cedar roofs by more insurance companies, home inspectors, realtors and architects than any other company in Minnesota. Not to brag, but we are pretty awesome. Don’t take my word for it. Check out our talents at www.kuhlscontracting.com. Or ask around. We have probably done work for someone you know.
I started this company in 1987. Since that time we have worked on thousands of homes around the Twin Cities. My approach to business has never wavered. Be honest, be
and do great work. As a result our list of happy clients grows
14
Packed and Ready Bloggers share insider tips for traveling with kids.
16 Grow Your Own Bouquet
A horticulturist shares ideas for cultivating a cutting garden that produces beautiful blooms—outdoors and in.
19
Curated Travel, Elevated Experiences
Destination Directive of Wayzata takes a personal approach to luxury excursions.
28
Gather and Graze
36
Dots Mark the Spot
An
44 In the Bag
Brookie Brandt has designs on travel mementos.
Photo: Ben and Katie Zweber
FROM THE EDITOR
It fills me with great joy to open the door to May to our travel and outdoor living issue, which features some interesting takes on the topics. This month’s lineup has inspired me, and I hope it does the same for you.
Visit page 16 where Paige Udermann connects with expert horticulturist Duane Otto from the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum to discuss creating beautiful, lasting cutting gardens. Their conversation fortified my dream to create a cutting garden in our yard. But there’s a problem. A big problem, and it’s shade.
Our backyard’s heavily treed landscape is ideal for keeping an outdoor space cool and comfortable during summer’s hotter days and providing protected conditions for brimming hosta beds, too many ferns to count and smatterings of Jack-in-the-pulpit and lily of the valley. In terms of plotting out a sun-drenched area to nurture blooms, no such luck. (Forget planting much on the side yards. The front yard’s slope is slightly problematic, and much of the garden space is reserved for my first bloomy love: hydrangeas and requisite annuals.) I’ll just continue admiring one of my neighbor’s expansive floral cutting bed, which keeps me florally entertained from late spring to early fall with her cornucopia of colors. Sigh.
When I interviewed Brookie Brandt for the article on page 44, I easily related to her travel procurement of memorable items during her many excursions, since I’m one who is drawn to a gift shop like a moth to a flame. Brandt shares her souvenir collection, which doesn’t include what one might think. There isn’t a magnet, T-shirt or snow globe to be found. Curious?
I hope you enjoy the way Ashley Cardona wonderfully shares Alicia Oberg’s thoughts on curated travel excursions. “It’s so much more than exploration, adventure or leisure,” Oberg says. “Travel nudges us toward our fullest human potential.” Discover more on page 19.
Wherever your travels or outdoor living endeavors find you, enjoy this merry month of May, and Happy Mother’s Day.
Until next month,
Renée Stewart-Hester renee@localmedia.co
On the Cover:
Photo: Chris Emeott
Alicia Oberg and her dog, Wallace, page 19
Photo by: Chris Emeott
VOL. 21 NO. 1 May 2026
PUBLISHER
Susan Isay
EDITOR
Renée Stewart-Hester
MANAGING CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Renée Stewart-Hester
MANAGING EDITOR
Hailey Almsted
DIGITAL EDITOR
Madeline Kopiecki
COPY EDITORS
Kellie Doherty and Sherri Hildebrandt
STAFF WRITERS
Kassondra Burtis, Ashley Cardona, Findlay Drabant, Mollee Francisco, Emily Gedde, Alexandra Tostrud and Paige Udermann
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Andrew Akhaphong, Hollie Blanchard, Emily Carriveau, Alison Feik, Stephanie Herrick, Jessica Hilde, Lynette Kalsnes, Emily Maxson, Spencer Olson, Rima Parikh, Molly Rivard, Raela Schoenherr, Lisa Stevens, Katie Tomsche and Mariah Wise
DIGITAL INTERN
Danielle Gallus
EDITORIAL INTERNS
Abigail Larson, Diane Meyer, Kate Thompson and Avery Vrieze
EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD
Mary Cornelius, Minnetonka Schools ; David Decker, House Novel ; Sue Gartner, Crown Warehouse & Delivery Service ; Kelly Olsen, Olsen Global ; Michele Phillips, blogger, writer and photographer ; Anna Skemp, Greater Wayzata Area Chamber of Commerce ; and Amanda Zielike, House Novel
As Memorial Day is marked this month, there are many great picture books for children that highlight the reason behind the holiday.
A Day for Rememberin’ by Leah Henderson is inspired by the first Memorial Day and imagines the event through the story of Eli, the 10-year-old son of a formerly enslaved man, newly freed.
The Poppy Lady by Barbara Elizabeth Walsh tells the story of Moina Belle Michael, a schoolteacher from Georgia who used red poppies to commemorate fallen soldiers during World Wars I and II.
Twenty-One Steps by Jeff Gottesfeld honors nameless fallen soldiers and those who guard the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery outside of Washington, D.C.
These are just some of the great picture books available through Hennepin County Library that honor Memorial Day.
Molly Rivard is a librarian, serving the Wayzata and Long Lake branches of the Hennepin County Library system. Read more at hclib.org.
Make a Connection
Many of us spend hours each day stuck in our cars in traffic and in front of our screens. What if we chose to do the opposite, disconnecting from technology and spending meaningful time outdoors, connecting with nature?
Nature–Based Therapeutic Services is a collaboration between the University of Minnesota Landscape Arboretum and the Earl E. Bakken Center for Spirituality & Healing that began more than 30 years ago and makes it easy for people to do just that through specialized programming.
“We know that being in nature invites all the senses in, helps reduce our stress level, enhances our well-being—our brains work better,” says Sarah Palm, program staff member. “Nature is our partner. It can help us feel so good.”
The program offers graduate classes and research via the arboretum and Bakken partnership, including direct community services for people living with eating disorders, Parkinson’s disease and other diagnoses. Additionally, there are adult education classes offered at the arboretum, including:
» May 8 and 29; June 12 and 25: Shinrin-Yoku
» May 14: Mindful Birding
» May 29: Nature Journaling
» June 18: An Immersive Mindfulness
Experience: Awaken to Nature
Lynette Kalsnes is a media strategist at the arboretum and is studying to become a master gardener intern. Learn more at arb.umn.edu.
Photo: Jason Boudreau-Landis
Summertime Tastes
Whether for Cinco de Mayo or throughout the summer, these recipes offer flavor-filled recipes to serve at any festive gathering. For complete recipes, visit lakeminnetonkamag.com.
Pork or Jackfruit Carnitas
Carnitas, which means “little meats” in Spanish, is a dish made of pork, served shredded in tacos or burritos. It is one of my favorite things to order at Mexican restaurants. Jackfruit is a large neutral-tasting tropical fruit that mimics the consistency of shredded pork when cooked, making it the perfect plant-based substitute. It absorbs all of the seasonings and can be just as flavorful as the pork.
» 1 onion, sliced
» 3–4 pounds boneless pork shoulder or three cans of jackfruit, drained and rinsed
» 4 cloves of garlic, minced
» 2 tsp. salt
» 1 Tbsp. cumin
» 1 Tbsp. dried oregano
» 2 tsp. black pepper
» 2 oranges, juiced
Spicy Watermelon Margaritas
In the summer, it is nice to take advantage of the seasonal options and use fresh watermelon for a twist on this classic cocktail. Plus, the color is gorgeous. A spicy simple syrup, made with honey and jalapeños, adds the right amount of heat to balance the sweetness of the watermelon.
» 2 jalapeños
» 1 cup honey
» ¾ cup water, divided
» 2 cups watermelon, diced
» 20 limes, juiced
» 16 oz. tequila blanco
» pink Himalayan sea salt
» ice
Emily Maxson of Medina is a food blogger and author of Emily’s Fresh Kitchen: Cook Your Way to Better Health. Find her at emilysfreshkitchen.com.
Travel Ready
Whether you’re a seasoned solo traveler, beginner backpacker or perfectionist planning the next family vacation or honeymoon, The Thoughtful Travel Podcast, hosted by Amanda Kendle, tackles travel challenges and triumphs while staying grounded in humility and cultural acumen. Episodes covering a wide range of topics, such as letting go of expectations, meeting kind strangers and walking the world, offer advice,
encouragement and inspiration for new and experienced travelers alike.
Kendle welcomes differing perspectives and opinions, examining specific travel related concerns, and episodes focus on experiences, such as Antarctic and scuba diving travel excursions, making the case for stepping out of your comfort zone.
Started in 2016, the show has amassed a trove of travel insight, answering a wide
breadth of questions. Episode 205 (What Turns Us Into Travelers) is a great place to start for new listeners. Kendle and guests discuss their first travel experiences, as well as their understanding of what it means to have a traveler’s mindset.
Find The Thoughtful Travel Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and on Kendle’s blog on notaballerina.com, and start dreaming about your next adventure. —Diane Meyer
Packed and Ready
Bloggers share insider tips for traveling with kids.
By Madeline Kopiecki
Zweber family road trips look a bit different than most. When Katie and Ben Zweber reach their destination for the day, daughters Juniper, 4, and Senya, 1, trade their car seats for a fold-out toddler bed and bassinet. And, as dinner sizzles away on the stovetop, the Zwebers open the back doors of their custom camper van and soak in the newest breathtaking view.
The Zwebers take an almost monthly sojourn in their camper van, much to Juniper’s delight. “She is obsessed with it,” Katie says. “She is constantly asking if we can go in the van.” Although the Zwebers have a uniquely comfortable setup, there are some bits of advice they’ve gleaned from frequent road trips that universally apply.
Katie, originally from Minnetonka, and Ben, originally from Plymouth, have spent over a decade wandering the world. Under the moniker Two Wandering Soles, the travel bloggers welcomed their daughters into the mix, but that hasn’t slowed down their travel lifestyle, which includes drives around the country and flights to destinations here and abroad.
At 4 years old, Juniper has been on 91 flights, and there’s little doubt Senya will match that number—if not exceed it—when she reaches the same age. “For the most part, kids are very flexible and adaptable,” Katie says. “We found that we can still travel very much the same way we always have and include them in that.” They share some of their tips for travel success for families.
Top: Travel bloggers Ben and Katie Zweber share their wanderlust with their daughters.
Bottom: Follow along with the Zweber family on Instagram @twowanderingsoles for destination recommendations, travel tips and more.
Photos: Ben and Katie Zweber
A good starting point includes involving kids in the planning process. “Talking about where we’re going, what we’re doing and involving [Juniper] in even some of the planning process, I think that helps her get more excited and be more present and feel like she’s part of the trip instead of just tagging along,” Katie says.
Be prepared to start the trip by avoiding day-of-travel stress. “The day of travel is just a small part of your entire trip,” Ben says. “I think it’s a lot better to focus more on where you’re traveling and then all the things that you get to do.”
New activities or toys go a long way to entertain young travelers. “I think keeping things somewhat simple, but weaving in something new makes it feel exciting,” Katie says. Recently, she discovered that printing off worksheets and putting them in plastic folders allows for easy entertainment with the help of whiteboard markers.
Slim down the diaper bag to a fanny pack. “You can keep that in your seat,” Katie says. “It’s not going to take up a ton of space.” With a few diapers and a small package of wipes, the fanny pack is much more versatile for in-air changes during flights.
Taking breaks is key. “Making sure that we’re being conscientious of taking breaks that work around [Juniper’s] schedule, like stopping at a playground, getting her wiggles out, that is really helpful,” Katie says.
Use a travel stroller (ideally lightweight and collapsible) that works with an infant car seat; it goes a long way in getting from Point A to Point B. “That has been really helpful—especially when we have long layovers,” Ben says. “Our daughters could sleep in the stroller or take a quick nap while we’re waiting at the airport.”
Two Wandering Soles twowanderingsoles.com @twowanderingsoles
GENUINE Lake Minnetonka Cruises
Grow Your Own Bouquet
A horticulturist shares ideas for cultivating a cutting garden that produces beautiful blooms—outdoors and in.
by Paige Udermann
April showers bring May flowers along with excitement for a new season of vibrant gardens. There’s truly nothing quite like nurturing a flower garden that not only looks stunning outdoors but also brings joy and beauty inside through fresh cut bouquets.
We consulted expert horticulturist Duane Otto at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum to learn how to create the perfect cutting garden. What is a cutting garden? “You can designate an area where you grow special flowers that are grown specifically for cutting [and using in displays],” Otto says. Many gardeners enjoy cutting flowers from any part of their yard, but having a designated space helps to create a steady supply for bouquets all season. Is it best to use annuals, perennials or a mix? Otto recommends using a mix. Annuals, like snapdragons and zinnias, bloom all
season long and produce continuous blooms. Perennials, like peonies and roses, come back year after year and are reliable bloomers. A mixture of annuals and perennials can offer a steady, vibrant collection of blooms.
What types of flowers are best to use?
“Usually, flowers that you want to cut from need to have longer stems,” Otto says. “There are many great cutting flowers, like gladiolas, zinnias, celosia and snapdragons.” Other annual flowers that are a great fit are amaranth, cosmos, marigolds and sunflowers, and consider perennials coneflowers, phlox, salvia and yarrow.
If using seeds, is succession planting useful? “Some flowers, like sunflowers, bloom, and then they’re just done,” Otto says. “You want to have some planted for each part of the season: early to mid-summer and late
summer to fall. You could do three rounds. Sunflowers are one you’ll want to stagger like that. Another example is gladiolas; plant some early, some midseason and some late, so you have blooms all summer, since they don’t regenerate after cutting.”
Is there a special technique for cutting flowers to keep the plants healthy and encourage more blooms? “It’s very important to keep cutting your flowers because that keeps them regenerating new flowers,” Otto says. “Never let any flowers go to seed. If we keep cutting them, they keep producing more, since they need to produce seed, and they will continue doing so until it gets cold or they die off.”
Is there a special cutting technique, and what’s the best way to extend the longevity of cut flowers? “You usually want to cut them
Minnesota Landscape Arboretum’s Duane Otto, expert horticulturist, recommends planting long-stemmed flowers in cutting gardens. Zinnias and phlox are among them.
in the morning when they’re fully hydrated,” Otto says. “Cut at an angle with a knife, so you don’t crush the stems.” Additionally, he advises hardening off (acclimating) the cut flowers to the indoors at room temperature or in a cool spot.
What are three tips for arranging cut flowers in a vase? Otto recommends having taller, upright flowers in the center of an arrangement. From there, build around those pillar flowers with medium-height flowers. If desired, add greenery or materials that drape over the vessel. “I would also say just be creative and daring, and most importantly, have fun,” he says.
Destination Directive of Wayzata takes a personal approach to luxury excursions.
Curated Travel, Elevated Experiences
Photo:
Destination Directive’s Alicia Oberg.
As the founder of Destination Directive in Wayzata, Alicia Oberg lights up when she talks about the benefits of travel. “It’s so much more than exploration, adventure or leisure,” Oberg says. “Travel nudges us toward our fullest human potential.”
When clients express an interest in visiting a particular region or city, Oberg sees an opportunity to broaden their horizons and shifts the focus from well-known and
well-traveled areas to local, less-highlighted gems. This practice, which Oberg calls townsizing, serves her mission of cultivating unique and meaningful experiences her clients want. For example, a client who intends to visit Dubrovnik or Split, Croatia, might not be aware of a woman in Šibenik, Croatia, who hosts cooking classes in her eighth century home, or understand how charming and walkable that town is, not to
mention how genuine and warm the people who live there are.
Seeing the world and meeting people from all walks of life is expansive by definition. “There is always an opportunity to take a different view,” Oberg says. She speaks with the conviction and passion of someone who has experienced this kind of transformation. When she visited Germany as a teenager, she was “absolutely gobsmacked by how big and vibrant the world
Photos: Alicia Oberg
Left: Lars, in the Arctic Circle, belongs to the Sámi people, who are an Indigenous group, residing in the Arctic regions of Finland, Norway, Sweden and Russia’s Kola Peninsula.
Right: Destination Directive clientele can travel to Croatia and experience the full spectrum of the culture.
is,” she says. Since then, Oberg has explored and fallen in love with almost every corner of the globe. From petting reindeer in the Arctic Circle to hiking in Saint Lucia and dodging motorbikes in Kigali, Rwanda, the stories she tells are as lively as she is.
Sightseeing is wonderful and fun, Oberg admits, but what Destination Directive offers is so much more than “widgeting out an itinerary,” as she puts it. After a career in accounting, Oberg served as the CFO and later as an agent for a travel advising company. Now, her vision for her own company is
Photos: Alicia Oberg; Chris Emeott
rooted in her commitment to curating experiences that provide authentic and memorable connections for her clients. Oberg and her team build plans for travel experiences based specifically on what clients need and their interests and priorities.
“Travel is an investment of resources,” Oberg says. Her experience in finance bolsters this reasoning. “Why rely on what a blogger suggests or what a neighbor says is a ‘must-see’? Why settle for a default vacation?” She might be onto something; for all other significant expenditures, we lean on experts in that field to ensure that we get the best result. The value of Destination Directive is the first-rate care and consideration Oberg provides for each excursion and each client.
“Of course you should visit the wonderful landmarks and museums of the world,” Oberg says, but if a client is an art aficionado, she also wants to introduce them to a couple in Seville, Spain, who specialize in art restoration. Enjoying the view from their terrace with a glass of Rioja over a conversion about artist Francisco de Goya and painter and sculptor El Greco beats a self-guided museum tour every time.
Nôtre Dame is remarkable, “but what about the guy walking around Paris with a cat on his shoulder?” Oberg says. Her challenge is to pay closer attention to the textures and details of the world. She refers to this practice of keen observation as land snorkeling—though she didn’t coin the term herself. As she continues
Alicia Oberg shares images from a trip to East Africa’s Rwanda.
the conversation, she leans forward and grows more animated, asking, “Where can we find the special, little gems? The places where the little old ladies in the village will come and chat with us? Where can we find magic little connections and moments?”
As a certified Virtuoso travel advisor, Oberg aims to provide her clients with personalized guidance and stress-free planning
by handling all of the logistics for them, and she also extends to them the exclusive benefits and insider knowledge she is privy to as part of that global network of esteemed hotels and properties. “This job is truly a labor of love,” she says, noting that she makes herself available to her clients while they are actively traveling—whatever time zone that involves. She follows up on details
and manages changes as they arise. That level of service is born out of her belief that the value of travel far exceeds its immediate experience; she knows that it has the capacity to change lives. Destination
Left and top right: A visit to the Caribbean’s Saint Lucia brings a full spectrum of travel: adventure and relaxation.
Bottom right: Alicia Oberg has a growing globe collection, which speaks to her love of travel to destinations near and far.
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Gather and Graze
Excelsior’s Fromage Co. takes charcuterie to the next level.
Written by Emily Gedde — Photos by Chris Emeott
Inspiration to launch a new business doesn’t always arrive like a bolt of lightning. Sometimes, ideas need time to percolate and develop into the just the right blend of creativity and business know-how.
Excelsior’s Fromage Co. features a gourmet entertaining experience with customizable charcuterie boards and a signature
charcuterie cart. From caviar to duck prosciutto, the Water Street shop has items not typically found in an ordinary grocery store.
For co-owner Jennifer Brisson, opening Fromage Co. last fall came after lifelong experiences in the hospitality industry. As the owner of Lilia Flower Boutique just down the street, Brisson says she was motivated by
Jared Supalla and Jennifer Brisson, co-owners of Fromage Co.
clients who were looking for the next guest experience. “The concept had been rolling around in my head for a long time,” she says. “I visited a luxury, gourmet grocery store in Napa [California] about 20 years ago, and it was a core memory that stuck with me. I wanted to do something different and more elevated someday.”
During an Instagram scrolling session, Brisson was inspired by a charcuterie cart in Florida. The idea had been simmering in Brisson’s mind for long enough, and the
Fromage Co. cart debuted in 2024 as the first of its kind in Minnesota. The community’s response was so positive, the storefront came to fruition just over a year later. “Everyone has been so welcoming and kind and really seems to love what we’re doing here,” Brisson says.
Fromage Co.’s most popular items are the premade charcuterie boards that come in three sizes—petite ($40), medium ($80) and large ($140). The boards serve two to 10 guests and feature items for the picky eater to the
adventurous foodie. Guests can expect cured meats, dried fruits, specialty cheeses and more.
An unexpected fan favorite? Caviar. Brisson says the internet has helped make caviar less intimidating and notes people are even placing it atop chicken nuggets. “That’s what I love about charcuterie boards,” Brisson says. “It’s an approachable piece, and there is something for everyone.”
And the board itself doesn’t have to come from Fromage Co. If clients have a board at home that works well in their kitchen or for
Creating memorable experiences wherever they might occur can be made easier (and elegant) with Fromage Co. of Excelsior.
their event, Brisson says those are welcomed for customization. “Bring it to us, and we design it to match your vibe,” she says.
Speaking of matching vibes, the mobile charcuterie cart continues to be a big part of the business and serves as an ideal option for corporate happy hours, open houses, wedding and baby showers, wedding receptions and on the list can go. It’s fully customizable and offers an interactive experience for guests. “It brings a lot of joy,” Brisson says.
Al Fresco
Jennifer Brisson has more plans for expanding Fromage Co., including to-go picnic baskets to make summer snacking effortless. “We want to launch a walk-up window where people can grab and go,” she says. “We’re thinking about a picnic basket that would include all the goodies and then be returned to us.” (Another idea includes offering picnic basket boat delivery options.) While details and pricing aren’t finalized, Brisson says the goal would be an affordable option for summer enthusiasts on the go.
Proven Quality. Proven Trust. Since 1975.
Bringing people together with food continues to be a highlight for Brisson and a focus Fromage Co. will continue to explore. An outdoor event space at the store offers an ideal setting for private events. With a bonfire pit, café lighting, music capabilities and a roll-up garage door, it’s gaining attention for the Instagram-worthy vibe. “People were walking up and asking if it was a restaurant,” Brisson says. “We’ll probably host private events here in the future.”
At the end of the day, Brisson’s goal with Fromage Co. is to bring people together. She fully appreciates how food generates conversation and evokes joy. “We’re looking to create a memorable guest experience for everyone that people are going to remember and talk about over and over,” she says.
Fromage Co.
thefromageco.com
@thefromageco
THE WORLD YOU LIVE IN
RAINBOW IS YOUR TRUSTED PARTNER IN CARING FOR YOUR PROPERTY’S UNIQUE ECOSYSTEM
Dots Mark the Spot
An artist showcases her work and welcomes others to share the spotlight.
Written by Renée Stewart-Hester —
Joy reveals itself in a multitude of ways. And for passersby along Third Street in Excelsior, an intentionally painted building is meant to offer happiness to all who come into view of its—polka dots. “I love polka dots—though I’m very picky about them too—and thought the idea of putting them on my building would bring people joy as they’re driving by,” Kelly Carámbula says. “Just a little something to knock you out of your regular routine and make you smile.”
When Carámbula moved with her husband, Aaron Carámbula, and daughters, Claire, now 13, and Quinn, now 10, in 2023 from
Photos by Nick Wang
Kelly Carámbula hand painted polka dots, which hold meaning to her, on the exterior of the Excelsior site that is home to her studio, two galleries and public creative spaces.
This summer, The Polka Dot House will offer Social Saturdays from 11 a.m.–2 p.m. at 468 Third St., Excelsior. The venue has also hosted floral workshops with Jess Bruggink of Excelsior’s AlmaRose Floral, a watercolor class, a book signing with Erin Gleeson of The Forest Feast and multiple art openings.
San Francisco to Minnetonka, she was in search of a studio space, which she found in Excelsior. “I walked in and instantly knew it was perfect,” she says. She turned the space into a studio and gallery, launching in 2024, but she discovered that the venue was capable of so much more, eventually opening it up to the public as a place where creativity meets community.
The Polka Dot House is home to the Kelly Carámbula Studio and Gallery in Excelsior. “But I also love people, art and building community, so having a space that I could share with other people who had passion—but not a place—felt like the perfect way to share this wonderful building that I am so grateful to have,” she says.
“I
Kelly Carámbula
Self-Portrait
Kelly Carámbula focuses on clay, fiber, metal, paint and wood, exploring themes of control and imperfection and incorporating elements of surprise, which can move viewers to examine the piece from a different perspective. “First and foremost, my art is an extension and expression of myself,” she says. “It is joyful, full of life and vibrancy.”
“I see my work as a continuation of myself that embraces the fullness of being a woman, a mother, an artist,” Carámbula says. “I create space for emotion and complexity that language alone cannot express. Through making, I uncover and explore the joys and hardships of life.”
Carámbula’s work begins with sketching forms, echoing her emotions. “These drawings are the vocabulary of shapes, textures and colors necessary for expressing feelings
in a range of mediums,” she says. “The physicality of my work in clay, fiber and metal all bring a sense of the hand. Each piece is a tactile conversation with the material—its character, its tradition, its history—embodying an acceptance of things that are both in and out of our control.”
The wellspring of Carámbula’s artistry arrived nearly at her beginning. Raised by a single mother, she found herself alone a fair amount of time. “My mom always made sure I had art supplies and gave me free rein to paint my room however I wanted, including my door and ceiling fan,” she says. “I also watched my mom do art projects in the evenings and weekends, so she was definitely an influence.”
The artist also points to other influencers. “As I’ve gotten older, I’m incredibly inspired by the female artists who’ve come before me.
Kelly Carámbula
Ruth Asawa, Sheila Hicks, Gego, the quilters of Gee’s Bend and Corita Kent to name a few—all women who came a few generations before me but made (and innovated) art because it was what they were meant to do,” she says.
“I believe art helps. It’s that basic,” Carámbula says. “When people step into my gallery, their faces light up. Art allows us to express feelings and emotions that we don’t often talk about when we run into people at the grocery store or soccer games. By creating opportunities to connect through art, we build community that has compassion and empathy. We also learn that we are less alone than it can sometimes feel, taking time to meet in person, to slow down, do something with our minds and bodies is a real treat, and it helps us connect to people on a deeper level.”
Top:
Various community groups, including members of
found
Bottom:
“I love to team up with other creatives who have a passion but not a space,” says Kelly Carámbula, who looks “forward to building on this in the coming years.”
The Sunshine Stop, can be
at The Polka Dot House.
The first floor features two galleries, open weekends May–December and by appointment, with rotating exhibitions and events. The main gallery highlights Carámbula’s art (Read Self-Portrait on page 40.), which she alternates on a regular basis. The overflow gallery is dedicated to her work and other events.
“At first, I intended to do pop-ups and art events every month or so. Then I crossed paths with the Sunshine Stop, a local nonprofit that teaches people with disabilities job skills,” she says. “They were looking for a space to have two events a week over the summer where they sold lemonade, as well as made and sold art. It was a no-brainer for me.”
Even the outdoor space is utilized. Patios on the front and back of The Polka Dot House allow for plenty of outdoor events. “So far, we’ve hosted Social Saturdays, an opportunity for community to come together, have coffee and make art together,” Carámbula says. “In the coming years, I’d love to have music and other events in the backyard. But that’s one of the great things about The Polka Dot House—it is an evolving project.”
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IN THE BAG
Brookie Brandt has designs on travel mementos.
Written by Renée Stewart-Hester
Regardless if the excursion is near or far, a trip to a hotel, museum or tourist destination gift shop is a must for even the most well-seasoned traveler among us. But how many magnets, mugs or marginal T-shirts can one collect? For Brookie Brandt, her visits around the country and abroad are memorialized in a rather unique way.
Brandt, a project manager with Katie Brandt Interiors in Spring Park, has amassed at least 100 shopping bags. It all started with a mentor of sorts. Around high school age, Brandt started collecting perfume tester cards because she was drawn to their designs, not scents! While discussing her growing collection with a client of her mother’s, they bonded over their love of marketing tools—perfume samples and shopping bags. “She encouraged me to start my collection,” Brandt says. “I was lucky enough to be able to sift through her collection, and she gifted me a few very special old bags that I just love.”
Photos by Chris Emeott
Since then, Brandt has built upon her collection, which organically aligns with her love of design— from her work in interior design to appreciating smaller concepts created on shopping bags. “I always had a hard time throwing the shopping bags away when traveling because they all had such a special story to them,” she says. “When I studied abroad in London, I had to buy an extra suitcase to make sure they all made it back home.”
Any collector has a few favorites, so what is the grande dame of Brandt’s collection? “I have a very special one from Dolce & Gabbana from [its] holiday collection that has a button on the inside, and the front of the bag lights up,” she says. “It’s magical!” Brandt recalls another gem. “One of my favorite artists, Donald Robertson, did a bag for [fashion director Linda Fargo’s] boutique at Bergdorf Goodman where he sketched Linda on the bag. It’s so much fun,” she says.
Brookie Brandt appreciates more than unique and well-designed shopping bags. “Coming from the marketing world, I am attracted to pretty and interesting marketing materials,” she says, noting that she once collected perfume sample cards, making a glass-topped table with them when she was younger.
While Brookie Brandt dreams of framing and displaying her shopping bag collection on a gallery wall, for now, it is stored, waiting for a time to make a perfectly curated reappearance.
“Anything that has a special story connected to it or is pretty and well designed,” Brookie Brandt says of her collection parameters. “Any and all bags are welcome in the collection,” especially those that underscore a memorable experience or mark a moment spent with friends or family.
Dr. Mitchell Schroeder, Dr. Shawn Sailer, Dr. Caroline Brost-Sailer, Dr. Ryan Elton, Dr. Tyler Knutson
What falls into the most unusual category? “I have some very old ones from Bloomingdale’s,” Brandt says. “I am not sure if they are original or one of the first shopping bags they did, but they are so intricate and special. I also love my plastic ones from Scoop in Chicago that are all multicolored. I used to use them as lunch bags when I was little. I thought they were so cool.”
Part of the fun of collecting is the hunt—the search for the must-have addition. “Of course, any fashion girlie would love to add a Hermès classic orange bag to their collection,” Brandt says. “I do have one from my mom’s client that is super special, but I would love to one day purchase something and get one on my own.” She also points to Rue Cambon, the historic Paris street that is home to Chanel’s flagship store and where, in 1910, Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel opened her first boutique, which she lived above. Brandt dreams of procuring the location’s exclusive white shopping bag (as opposed to the brand’s classic black and white design). “That would be a special addition,” she says.
As one knows, shopping bags typically have partners—purchased items, tucked inside for the retail ride. But Brandt doesn’t always have to ring up with a cashier before walking away with another bag. “There are some sales associates that are so kind, and when I tell them I have a special collection, sometimes they give me one, which also adds a special story,” she says. “It starts a great conversation. And in this day and age, not many people collect things anymore, so it’s unique. We’re in such a minimalist, throw-away era.”
Joyfully, Brandt’s always marched to the beat of her own design drum. (We’re guessing she was the only kid at school with her lunch tucked away in a fashion bag.) Today, she continues to appreciate the finer points of life—one shopping bag at a time.
Allstar Construction
A home is your most expensive investment, and ensuring good quality, long-lasting durability and great craftmanship is what Allstar Construction takes great pride in providing its customers.
Allstar specializes in roofing, siding, windows, doors, gutters, decks and water protection. With the weather turning warmer, now is the ideal time to have many of those areas checked and fixed after a Minnesota winter—and before small issues become larger problems. While serving the entire Metro area, the Allstar team also works with clients in the Brainerd Lakes area. With its broad reach across the state, they are prepared to assist home and cabin owners alike. Whatever the need, Allstar is made up of more than 45 years of industry experience. “Whether it be a basic
roof replacement or enhancing curb appeal, our teams can do it all—protecting your investment,” says Grady Stephens, president.
“I am very pleased with the work that Allstar did on my home,” Lori L. says. “They worked like a fine-oiled machine! As the work was being done, they were cleaning up the area constantly. They did a fabulous job, and even my neighbors commented on how hard they worked and efficient they were.”
“Levon was our main Allstar point of contact,” Tom M. says. “Levon did an excellent job of helping us understand the scope of work that we needed, providing us pricing options and managing the communication and timing for the completion of the work. The quality of the finished work was outstanding.”
TRAVEL GUIDE
The perfect day trip.
Travel doesn’t always mean packing a bag and making flight reservations. The perfect day trip awaits throughout the greater Twin Cities area and beyond. Escape the everyday with a relaxing drive along winding roads, explore small town charm and point yourself away from your oft visited locales. Take a day tour off the traditional beaten path to discover natural vistas, beautiful venues and welcoming people—prepared for your visit in the most hospitable way.
Two Silo Winery & Vineyard
Make it a weekend worth savoring. Trade crowded city nights for vineyard sunsets at Two Silo Winery & Vineyard in Grant, Minnesota. Our 22-acre estate blends historic farmhouse charm with modern luxury, just minutes from the Twin Cities. Enjoy small-batch wines, curated tasting flights and elegant farm-inspired fare in a cozy, sophisticated setting. Extend your stay in our vineyard-view farmhouse, perfect for intimate gatherings or refined weekend escapes. Sip. Stay. Savor.
Two Silo Winery & Vineyard 7040 117th St. N., Grant twosilowinery.com
Two Silo Winery & Vineyard @twosilo
Run, Bike and Swim Into Summer
Minnetonka youth gear up for an exciting tri-sport extravaganza.
The Tonka Youth Triathlon invites adventurous young athletes to swim, bike and run their way to the finish line. Scheduled for 8:30 a.m. May 16 at Minnetonka Middle School East, the morning promises to be one of fun and fitness.
Whether a participant is eagerly returning for another year of the event or maybe a nervous newcomer to the tri-sport format, the competition will be welcoming and supportive of all racers’ abilities. “Completing a triathlon is a huge accomplishment. Kids gain confidence and pride from challenging themselves,” says Louise Weir, marketing specialist for Minnetonka Community Education.
The event is geared toward grades two through eight, but children ages 4 to 6, who are eager to join in, can also participate in the 100 yard dash. Weir encourages older students to participate as volunteers. “We need help with body marking, directing participants along the route, assisting in the bike corral and supervising indoors,” she says.
Registration is available online through 10 a.m. May 14, but participants can register in person on the day before and day of the race. Race packets can be picked up from noon–5:30 p.m. May 15 at the Minnetonka Community Education Center. Additional packet pick up will be available on race day from 7:30–8:10 a.m. at Minnetonka Middle School East. There is no registration limit, and Weir expects around 200 participants this year.
The event is truly a community effort, bringing together “families, participants, volunteers, sponsors, Minnetonka police, bike mechanics and more,” Weir says. “It’s a wonderful celebration of community supporting youth wellness and confidence.”
Register to race, or check out volunteer opportunities, at minnetonkaschools.org.
—Diane Meyer
05.06
Tonka Trail Trot
Children in grades K–5 can join the 1-mile run from 6–7 p.m. at the Minnetonka Community Education Center. business.excelsiorlakeminnetonkachamber.com
05.07
eBike Education
Learn essential eBike safety and traffic laws from 5:30–6:30 p.m. at Minnetonka Community Education with the Minnetonka and South Lake police departments. An adult is required to attend; students are encouraged to join. business.excelsiorlakeminnetonkachamber.com
05.12
EmpowHER Luncheon
Feel empowered by women at this luncheon and roundtable discussion, which run from 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m. at Atria Corporate Center. business.wayzatawestmetrochamber.com
05.16, 05.17
Dare to Compare Stop by Maynard’s to gather with boating enthusiasts. Get in-water demonstrations and insights on leading wake boats. eventbrite.com
05.16
MN Brewery Running Series
Kick off spring with a 5K run and beer at the finish line, beginning at 11 a.m. at Back Channel Brewing Co. Attendees must be 21 or older to receive the complimentary alcoholic beverage. eventbrite.com
05.31
Lazarus Brass
Experience the magic of the brass and percussion ensemble led by Charles Lazarus and other members of the Minnesota Orchestra from 3–5 p.m. at Wayzata Community Church. charleslazarus.com
Compiled by Abigail Larson and KateThompson
To have your event considered: email lakeminnetonkamag@localmedia.co by the 10th of the month three months prior to publication. Please note that some events may have changed since these pages went to print. Please visit affiliated websites for updates.
Mother’s Day?
A lake in Carver Park offered this familial scene, captured by Camille Nelson, who was captivated by the parent-child moment. Her winning photograph reflects scenes throughout the area and state, where the Common Loon serves as our state bird.
But the question remains: Is this a male or female adult loon? According to birdfact. com, “When pairs are together, the chance of a positive ID increases, due to the size difference between the larger, heavier male and the smaller, lighter female.”
Regardless, when it comes to caring for their young, male and female loons share some responsibilities. “Nest-building and incubation duties are split between the pair, and both are fiercely territorial over their nest, eggs and young,” the site notes.
—Renée Stewart-Hester
Photographer: Camille Nelson Title: Loon Baby on Parent’s Back Equipment: Canon EOS R5 Mark II Location: Carver Park Category: Wildlife Award: First Place
To view other Lens on Lake Minnetonka photo contest winners, visit lakeminnetonkamag.com.
