Invest in Hope
April is the re-awakening of plants, animals, and Minnesotans. It’s a time of rejuvenation and investing in the momentum of positivity.
Investment by definition, is the act of devoting time, effort, energy or finances to a particular undertaking with the expectation of a worthwhile result. We can invest in a lot of things such as our community, our relationships, our finances, and our health with the hope that the effort will have a positive impact. We can invest in our community by supporting our local businesses, schools, and local organizations. We can serve the community through volunteerism and investment in future generations. On a larger scale, we can participate in public surveys and stay educated and involved with the future of our city. Investing financially can help meet long-term financial goals whether it be for retirement or a level of security. On a personal level, we can invest in our families and friends, and enrich relationships by giving time and effort to the people that mean the most to us.
For our investment issue, we met up with Susan Stiles and her team at Stiles Financial. They work hard to help ensure that your money is working for you.
The Minneapolis Lakes team also wanted to fill you in on a new project that will be featured on this year’s MSP Home Tour where you can gather great ideas for investing in your own space. If the inside of your home is already loveable, LUNSETH can help create a beautiful outside area to match. Whether it’s taking care of your lawn or designing an incredible landscape plan, they have the team to help make it reality.
We’ve also included some ideas for investing in family time (which I might argue is the most important investment) as well as some great books that might be worth the read along with an income tax cocktail.
While investing in ourselves, relationships, the community, and finances can look very different from person to person, the effort we put into these areas of our lives is done with the common goal of having a positive impact that yields results.
And if the world seems a little bit rocky at times, it never hurts to invest in hope!
ALEXANDRA PATTY,
April 2025
PUBLISHER
Alexandra Patty | alexandra.patty@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Sarah Knieff | sarah.knieff@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Susan Shannon | susan.shannon@citylifestyle.com
MARKET SUPPORT COORDINATOR
Kassi Miranowski | kassi.miranowski@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Kristy Belley, Susan Lanier-Graham, Sarah Knieff, Amy Salvagno
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Anchor Builders, Lucy Hawthorne, Simon and Schuster
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
In January 2025, Grant Whittaker Creative and partners spearheaded the first immersive experience to celebrate the vibrancy of downtown Minneapolis, its people and the arts.
Photography by Natalie Fox of SGTC
Ask Susan
Susan Stiles CFP, CHFC, AIF, CPFA, MBA Founder / CEO Stiles Financial Services, Inc.
Dear Susan: As I approach retirement, is there a rule-ofthumb I should follow to adjust my portfolio?
Susan:
In general, as you near retirement, you should adopt a more conservative investment approach. The goal is to protect your savings from volatility and reduce the risk of significant losses as you may rely on these funds for income. Historically the rule of thumb is the “110 minus your age” rule, which suggests the percentage of your investments you should have in stocks with the rest in bonds. For example, if you are 65 years old, you might consider having 45% of your portfolio in stocks and 55% in bonds or cash equivalents. Ultimately, your specific asset allocation should consider your financial situation, risk tolerance, income needs, and investment horizon. To continue, snap the QR code for my video and a deeper discussion on this topic.
Susan Stiles is the Founder / CEO of Stiles Financial Services; an independent, fee-based, private wealth management financial advisory firm, specializing in families that have complex portfolio, wealth management and estate planning needs. We also advise companies on their retirement benefit plans and corporate cash management. Send “AskSusan” questions to: AskSusan@stilesfinancial.com.
www.stilesfinancial.com
Invest in Sustainable, Plant-Based Candles
Foton Pearled Candles are the clean-burning, sustainable candles the environment has been hoping for. Each candle kit features wicks and "small, plant-based wax pearls that users can pour into their old candle jars or [other containers]," according to the owners and sisters, Heidi and Sirli. "Choose from a variety of scents and colors to improve the ambiance of your home, business, or event." They're also non-toxic and self-extinguish when accidentally tipped over. fotoncandle.com.
Explore Science on the Big Screen
Catch five scientific movies at Omnifest, the Science Museum of Minnesota’s annual giant screen film festival running now through April 13. The festival showcases "out-of-thisworld" films running in a daily rotation on the Omnitheater’s 90-foot domed screen. "This year’s films include a selection of fan favorites and new features, spanning topics of climate change, social science, space exploration, international culture, and much more," according to the museum. new.smm.org/omnitheater
Shop Winifred Design
Winifred Design was founded by a local mother-daughter duo with a shared passion for luxury designer brands and fashion. They set out to create beautiful jewelry that the everyday woman could wear, transforming their love for high-end pieces into something accessible. Inspired by the idea of repurposing unsalvageable or unused designer items, they craft fresh, unique pieces from authentic designer buttons and charms sourced from around the world. Shop their pieces today on Instagram, @winifreddesign.
A CLIENT-FIRST APPROACH TO WEALTH MANAGEMENT
Stiles Financial Services
ARTICLE BY SARAH KNIEFF | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LUCY HAWTHORNE
Susan Stiles
What sets Stiles apart in a crowded field is its unwavering commitment to a client-first approach, ensuring that every client feels valued and understood while receiving the highest level of financial expertise.
In the heart of Edina, Stiles Financial Services stands out as a beacon of personalized financial advice.
Founded in 2000 by Susan Stiles, this independent consulting firm has firmly established itself as a leader in private wealth management, 401(k) consulting, and portfolio management. What sets Stiles apart in a crowded field is its unwavering commitment to a client-first approach, ensuring that every client feels valued and understood while receiving the highest level of financial expertise.
At the core of Stiles is a dynamic team of 11 seasoned professionals, each bringing unique areas of expertise to the table. Unlike traditional firms that often outsource portfolio management, Stiles prides itself on in-house operations, with the entire team working collaboratively to serve clients. This holistic approach means that whether it’s a seasoned investor or someone just starting to think about their financial future, a client can rest assured that they will receive consistent, personalized attention. As Susan emphasizes, “The clients here are the clients of the whole firm, not just a single team member. Everyone knows who they are, and we’re committed to mutual success.”
Every portfolio managed by Stiles is custom-built to reflect the specific goals and risk profiles of individual clients. This level of personalization is reassuring in an industry often characterized by one-size-fits-all solutions. By employing a discretionary management model, the firm not only acts on behalf of its clients but does so with the keen insights and adjustments necessary to adapt to changing market conditions. This approach combines a dedication to rigorous portfolio management with the nuanced understanding of each client’s unique financial landscape.
Stiles Financial Services excels in 401(k) consulting and advisory services to retirement and pension
plans. The firm’s dedication to fiduciary oversight, investment monitoring, and providing participant financial education is not just about documenting a fiduciary oversight process; it’s about enhancing the financial health of the communities and businesses they serve. Susan and her team’s extensive involvement with industry organizations—such as the Rotary International, Women in Pensions, Financial Planning Association of MN, National Association of Plan Advisors and Edina Chamber of Commerce—demonstrates her commitment to elevating industry standards and advocating for financial literacy.
The firm’s emphasis on education extends beyond the professional realm. Susan recognizes the importance of financial literacy as a means to empower individuals to improve their lives. This dedication is exemplified by the creation of the Stiles Financial Community Service Fund, which aims to narrow the achievement gap for underserved populations. Her belief that a robust financial education can change lives is a driving force behind her and her team’s efforts in the community.
The office environment at Stiles defies the stereotype of a traditional financial firm. With vibrant artwork lining the walls and a spacious kitchen that serves as a hub for collaboration, the atmosphere encourages creativity and teamwork. Meetings are often accompanied by home-cooked meals, an effort Susan champions to foster a nurturing workplace culture. Her hospitality also extends beyond the team; clients are welcomed not just as customers, but as part of the Stiles family. From personalized birthday cards to gifts from Susan’s cherished wine collection, every gesture is calculated to build lasting relationships.
The clients
here
are the
of the whole firm, not just a single team member. Everyone knows who they are, and we’re committed to mutual success. “ ”
clients
Moreover, Stiles champions a strategic collaboration model, meaning that advisors frequently include portfolio managers in client meetings. This ensures that clients receive comprehensive insights that combine wealth management strategies with the latest market insights. The result is a more informed decision-making process and a stronger, more resilient investment strategy.
Ultimately, Susan Stiles’s vision has cultivated a firm that redefines wealth management in the 21st century.
Her journey—from a single mother who pursued higher education to an influential financial advisor—fuels her passion for empowering clients and communities alike. Susan and her team are excited to celebrate the firm’s 25th anniversary this year and are honored to have been recognized by Newsweek as a top advisory firm in the country.
7505 Metro Blvd. | 952-988-0452 | stilesfinancial.com
ShayandEricLunseth
LUNSETH lawn CARE PROFESSIONALS
ARTICLE BY SARAH KNIEFF
Nestled in the vibrant community of Bloomington, Minnesota, LUNSETH Lawn Care Professionals has blossomed from humble beginnings into a leader in the lawn care industry.
Founded by Eric Lunseth in 2007, what started in a modest garage quickly evolved into a trusted name that embodies quality, communication, and professionalism. By 2010, the drive for excellence gained further momentum when Shay Lunseth, wife of Eric, joined the team fulltime, leading the charge for the organic division known as Organic Lawns by LUNSETH. Together, they transformed a small operation into a flourishing business that caters to over 2,000 satisfied customers, supported by a dedicated annual crew of approximately 50 employees.
LUNSETH Lawn Care Professionals stands out for its comprehensive suite of services. Their offerings include commercial grounds maintenance, commercial snow removal, landscape design and installation, hardscapes, and, notably, organic lawn care solutions. Focused on creating beautifully manicured landscapes, LUNSETH's mission is to enhance both business and residential environments. A cornerstone of their approach involves understanding the unique needs of their clients and their properties, which enables their expert team to provide tailored recommendations and sustainable landscape designs.
Photo by Emily WittPhotography .
FOCUSED ON CREATING beautifully MANICURED LANDSCAPES, LUNSETH'S
Committed to fostering healthier lawns while protecting the environment, LUNSETH offers an organic alternative to traditional chemical lawn care practices. “The company utilizes 100% OMRI certified organic fertilizers and natural weed control solutions, which promote not only vibrant lawns but also a safer ecosystem,” Shay explains. LUNSETH’s innovative methods include the application of corn gluten meal for pre-emergent weed control and liquid iron for managing existing weeds. Each season, the company follows a structured program: early spring marks the start with corn gluten application; late spring brings organic fertilizers and liquid iron; summer includes another corn gluten treatment; and fall features aeration and overseeding to bolster lawn health.
However, LUNSETH's dedication to sustainability extends beyond just lawn care. They offer a variety of add-on services designed to further enhance lawn health and environmental integrity, including microbial soil boosters, natural mosquito repellent using cedar oil, and compost tea applications to promote disease prevention. Their landscaping projects also “embrace ecological practices, featuring pollinator gardens, rain gardens, and sustainable soil management techniques that create impactful and green outdoor spaces,” says Shay.
An exciting new development at LUNSETH is the introduction of electric mowing services, providing clients with
CHOOSING organic LAWN CARE WITH LUNSETH MEANS prioritizing THE HEALTH AND well-being OF CLIENTS, THEIR FAMILIES, PETS, AND THE LOCAL ECOSYSTEM.
a quieter, cleaner, and more eco-friendly option for lawn maintenance. This initiative underscores the company's commitment to innovation and environmental stewardship.
Choosing organic lawn care with LUNSETH means prioritizing the health and well-being of clients, their families, pets, and the local ecosystem. By minimizing the use of synthetic chemicals, LUNSETH actively works to safeguard waterways from harmful pollutants and promote biodiversity within the soil, supporting a thriving community of beneficial insects, birds, and wildlife.
For more information on their comprehensive range of services, visit lunsethlawncare. com or call 612-913-4899.
MSP Home Tour
FIND INSPIRATION FOR YOUR NEXT HOME PROJECT
ARTICLE BY SARAH KNIEFF
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANCHOR BUILDERS
As homeowners constantly strive to elevate and invest in their living environments, the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) shines as a trusted authority and resource in the remodeling sector.
Dedicated solely to advancing the remodeling industry, NARI connects contractors, manufacturers, and supply chain partners, empowering homeowners with the information and resources necessary to create their dream homes.
This April, NARI is set to showcase its commitment to innovation and inspiration through the much-anticipated 2025 MSP Home Tour, scheduled for the weekend of April 26 and 27, from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. each day.
One of the standout homes featured this year is a stunning remodel by Anchor Builders, located at 11924 James Rd. in Hopkins.
Designed in the captivating Japandi style—a blend of Japanese minimalism and Scandinavian functionality—this home is the epitome of serene living.
Nestled atop a hill amidst a tranquil neighborhood, it offers breathtaking sight lines and a perfect environment for both relaxation and entertainment. Homeowners who travel extensively and wish to infuse their global experiences into their living space will find this design particularly appealing.
Owners of 11924 James Rd.
11924 James Rd.
As Beatrice Owen, Executive Director of NARI, describes the home, "When you walk through the doors, you're immediately serene. Natural light pours in, accentuated by warm wood tones, creating a comforting atmosphere that truly feels like a forever home.”
The 2025 tour also offers much more than just eye-catching designs; it serves as a vital source of inspiration for homeowners considering renovations. Visitors will have the opportunity to tour a diverse array of properties— from full home remodels to intimate kitchen and basement transformations. Beatrice emphasizes, "Each home on the tour showcases how small investments can yield significant results, enhancing the overall functionality and beauty of a space."
For instance, one featured home in Richfield pays homage to the family history of its owners, incorporating elements like a kitchen pantry that nods to their grandmother's culinary legacy. The creative use of space, such as bump-outs that cleverly extend rooms without changing the original footprint of the house, demonstrates that even minor adjustments can dramatically enhance livability.
Furthermore, the tour includes properties showcasing impressive renovations in constrained spaces, like a 600-square-foot craftsman bungalow in Golden Valley that maximizes comfort and usability. With its custom sixpanel cabinetry and the inviting warmth of fern green accents, this home stands testament to the potential for brilliance in even the coziest corners.
“Each home on the tour showcases how small investments can yield significant results, enhancing the overall functionality and beauty of a space.”
“It’s fascinating to see how individuals look at their space and envision making it their own,” Beatrice says. “We are thrilled about this year’s tour and can’t wait for visitors to get inspired.”
For more information about the tour or NARI, visit narimn.org.
11924 James Rd.
6BEST INVESTMENT BOOKS TO READ
THESE INVESTMENT BOOKS CAN HELP YOU STAY UP-TO-DATE ON THE LATEST FINANCIAL TRENDS
ARTICLE BY SUSAN LANIER-GRAHAM
Investing in your future is critical yet complicated. While reaching out to qualified professionals is vital— whether you’re building your business, investing in your financial security, or planning for retirement— doing some of your own research is often helpful. We checked out some of the top investment books that help you better understand how to invest in your future and build wealth.
ONE UP ON WALL STREET
One Up On Wall Street: How to Use What You Already Know to Make Money in the Market by Peter Lynch with John Rothchild. Peter Lynch explains average investors’ advantages over professionals and how they can use these advantages to achieve financial success.
HOW TO INVEST
How to Invest: Navigating the Brave New World of Personal Investment, part of Economist Books, by Peter Stanyer, Masood Javaid, and Stephe Satchell. A dynamic new guide to personal investment for the era of cryptocurrencies and personal trading platforms.
Power Your Profits: How to Take Your Business from $10,000 to $10,000,000 by Susie Carder. While not a traditional book on investments, Power Your Profits helps you discover how to take your business from startup mode to the multi-million-dollar mark.
The Wealth Decision: 10 Simple Steps to Achieve Financial Freedom and Build Generational Wealth by Dominique Broadway. A roadmap for becoming a millionaire and building the foundation of generational wealth from a self-made, first-generation multimillionaire.
THE WEALTH DECISION THE WOLF OF INVESTING
The Wolf of Investing: My Insider’s Playbook for Making a Fortune on Wall Street by Jordan Belfort. From the investment guru and author of The Wolf of Wall Street, this is a witty and clear-eyed guide for anyone who wants to play the stock market to their advantage and learn the secrets of a top Wall Street investor.
HOW TO INVEST
How to Invest: Masters on the Craft by David M. Rubenstein. This book is a master class on investing, featuring conversations with the biggest names in finance. Brought to you by the legendary cofounder of The Carlyle Group, David M. Rubenstein.
FAMILY TIME is the Best Investment
These simple, yet intentional ideas can make the best memories.
EAT DINNER TOGETHER AS A FAMILY.
This meaningful time around the table is where connections happen. Let everyone share good moments from the day or something they struggled with. Create a jar of conversation starters, exchange giggles and cook up something delicious.
CREATE SURPRISES
Everyone likes to feel special – and surprised. The littlest things make the biggest impact: A backyard picnic; a sleepover in an indoor fort; an after-school ice cream treat; a bathroom spa day.
CREATE FAMILY TRADITIONS
Build weekly or monthly traditions –movie nights with popcorn, board game marathons, a gratitude jar, evening bike rides, living room dance parties, even a family book club to discover old favorites and new reads.
EXPRESS LOVE AND GRATITUDE
In busy seasons, it’s easy to forget to let a loved one feel appreciated and thought of. Tuck a hand-written note in a lunch box or give an unexpected hug; spend time sharing what you’re thankful for about them.
KEEP GENERATIONS LINKED
Consider Sunday meals with grandparents or weekly phone calls if distance separates. Invite them to share their childhood stories and treasured memories. Start a yearly family scrapbook filled with favorite photographs and vacation souvenirs.
ARTICLE BY KRISTY BELLEY
The drink that makes you look forward to TAX DAY
INCOME TAX cocktail
INGREDIENTS:
• 1½ oz. Gin
• ¾ oz. Dry Vermouth
• ¾ oz. Sweet Vermouth
• ¾ oz. Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice
• 2 Dashes Angastura Bitters
• Orange Twist
• Glass Type: Coupe
DIRECTIONS:
1.
2. Add everything to your shaker with ice.
4. Pour into your coupe.
5. Twist your orange peel again, like you did last summer.
7. Enjoy being done with taxes.
8. And a good cocktail.
The Income Tax Cocktail likely popped up during the Prohibition party scene of the 1920s. Its exact origin story remains a bit blurry, but it was definitely a hit in speakeasies.
The name? Well, it's like a cheeky nod to the idea that sipping on this cocktail might be more fun than paying actual taxes! Made with gin, sweet vermouth, orange juice, and a dash of bitters, it's like a boozy adventure for your taste buds, with hints of citrus and herbs. Despite its vintage roots, the Income Tax Cocktail still brings the party vibes, transporting you back to the roaring '20s.
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
EVERY MONDAY
Trivia and Brews
Bear Cave Brewing | 6:30 PM
Get your thinking caps on and join Bear Cave Brewing every Monday for Trivia Mafia. Gather your team and test your knowledge across a range of fun topics. The game kicks off at 6:30 p.m. sharp, so arrive early to grab a beer, order your favorite pizza, and get ready for a night of friendly competition. Plus, they've got great prizes for the winners! bearcavebrewing.com
APRIL 3RD
Monarchs and Milkweed
Bell Museum | 10:00 AM
Monarchs and Milkweed: A Story of Survival takes you on a journey into the world of butterflies and plants, and introduces the complex relationship between monarchs and milkweed. The exhibit explores how their very survival has been shaped over time by one another. Travel through the seasons of a calendar year to discover how both insect and plant grow and interact, culminating in a massive butterfly migration that crosses a continent. bellmuseum.umn.edu
APRIL 8TH - 13TH
Mean Girls
Ordway Center for the Performing Arts
Cady Heron may have grown up on an African savanna, but nothing prepared her for the vicious ways of her strange new home: suburban Illinois. Soon, this naïve newbie falls prey to a trio of lionized frenemies led by the charming but ruthless Regina George. But when Cady devises a plan to end Regina’s reign, she learns the hard way that you can’t cross a Queen Bee without getting stung. ordway.org/events/mean-girls
APRIL 12TH
Spring Wellness
Vital Fitness | 10:00 AM
Wake up and get moving! Join Vital Fitness for a Spring Wellness Event in St. Louis Park on Saturday, April 12, from 10 a.m. to Noon. Enjoy shopping vendor tables of local health-conscious businesses and participate in a complimentary fitness class, great for all levels! It's the perfect opportunity to refresh a routine. RSVP at eventbrite.com.
APRIL 15TH - JUNE 15TH
Frozen
Children’s Theatre Company
Disney’s Frozen sweeps into Minnesota as Children’s Theatre Company premieres its original production of the hit Broadway musical. Sing along with Elsa, Anna, and the whole cast as they encounter magic that’s out of control, weather that’s fearsome, and Olaf, a snowman who melts your heart. childrenstheatre.org.
APRIL 26TH
Minnesota Craft Beer Festival
Minneapolis Convention Center | 1:00 PM
Held in the heart of Minneapolis, this is your chance to sip on hard-to-find favorites and explore unique flavors alongside fellow beer lovers. Don’t miss out on this incredible lineup of breweries at the Minneapolis Convention Center—grab your tickets for an unforgettable day! minnesotacraftbeerfestival.com.
Your fund has already given you all the tax advantages it can and now is ready to be spent. Education, environment, housing, kids, health care, economic opportunity— your cause is waiting.
How to find the right cause?
Well, you probably got advice to earn that money, now get some to give it away. That’s the ADVISED part of Donor Advised Funds— and it happens to be exactly what we do.
So bring that fund to us and let’s get crackin’. Your community needs you.
