Waconia, MN February 2025 by City Lifestyle

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Love Local

I don’t know about you, but this time of year, I am always torn. I find myself torn between resisting the commercialization of another greeting card holiday and indulging in all the excuses to enjoy the season.

To do a Valentine’s Day date out or enjoy a cozy night at home? To buy a card or just say a kind word? I usually land somewhere a little in between. We’ll each arrive at different answers based on our preferences and personalities, but what we hold in common is an opportunity to make sure those around us know we love them.

For me, no matter what decision is made, it’s always important to reflect on how lucky I am to be surrounded by family and friends - a special date night out with my wife, entertaining my family at home, or sharing an early happy hour with my closest friends – time spent with the ones closest to me is time well spent for sure.

While we teeter between the chill of January winter and the excitement of spring, we hope you’ll be inspired to take a moment to come together with the people in your life. The ones in your home and on your street. In your neighborhood and your community. And regardless of how you choose to celebrate, we hope the pages of this month’s magazine will help you do just that as we celebrate and highlight what’s to love in your local community.

“Love local” means your local businesses, those in your community - but it also means loving what is near. Those under your own roof included. So grab some coffees at Mocha Monkey and head home for a game night around the fire with the family. Or snag a bottle of wine from Schram Vineyards and some cheese and crackers from Mackenthun’s and indulge in a movie night in.

We’ve always believed what we can do together is so much more than what we can do apart. And we continue to see that demonstrated through the many stories told in these pages month after month.

Thanks for letting us be a part of the life you’re building, whatever that may look like.

Our hope is that we inspire you to love it just a bit more than you did before.

Happy February!

MATT SHAEFFER, PUBLISHER

February 2025

PUBLISHER

Matt Shaeffer | matt.shaeffer@citylifestyle.com

MARKET SUPPORT MANAGER

Amy Janzen

EDITOR

Lauren Beaubaire | lauren.beaubaire@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Emily McKeever, Alison Lee, Anna Barnes, Jen Fortner

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

R. K. Photography and Anna Barnes

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

COO Matthew Perry

CRO Jamie Pentz

CTO Ajay Krishnan

VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson

VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley

AD DESIGNER Zach Miller

LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1—4: It was a magical night at the Waconia Tree Lighting event, coordinated by the Waconia Chamber. Photography by the Waconia Chamber of Commerce. 5—7: Our amazing Waconia High School show choirs performed at Waconia Show Choir Premiere Night, putting on an incredible show. Photography by R. K. Photography

Pictured: Bryan Haasken

Snow Removal Made Simple with Waconia Landscaping Co.

Make enjoying this cozy time of year easier with snow removal services from Waconia Landscaping Co. Customers can pay per plow, a monthly flat rate, or there are also seasonal contracts offering convenient options for every budget and need. They also offer snow hauling, salt and de-icing, walkway shoveling, and so much more. Visit https://www. waconialandscapingco.com/ to find out more and take stressing over a big snow fall off of your to-do list.

Look Your Best For Valentine's Day With Willa June

Whether you plan to go out or stay in on Valentine’s Day, Willa June has an outfit for the occasion. The talented team there has a special events section they’ve put together that will give you accessory inspiration for an outfit you’ve already chosen, or if you need a whole ensemble, look no further. We guarantee you’ll find something you love! Check out this gorgeous shop online as well shopwillajune.com/

Victoria Veterinary Hospital Has Moved!

In December, Victoria Veterinary Hospital moved to its new location at 1486 Stieger Lake Lane! Your beloved pet babies will get the same level of care at the new location, but now they’ll be taken care of in a vast new and gorgeous space. And you’ll love, among many other things, a bigger parking lot and more appointment options. For all your pet health needs, give Dr. Jessica and her team a call today! https://victoriavet.net/

Photography by Victoria Vet Hospital

Two of my college besties and I once had a discussion (in a long series on this topic) about finding “the one.” We were young and naïve and romantic. We were raised on Disney princesses and John Hughes films. You really can’t blame us. We were women who would be wooed. My friend’s father, George, weighed in.

Life Minded

George was a professor. Calm. Wise. Intellectual. I liked George right up until he explained to us prattling, twenty-one-year-olds that there is no “correct person” singular. A myth. Particularly in regard to marriage, he claimed. He believed a person developed to a point of being ready for lifelong commitment and then just ended up with whoever was across from them at the time.

We were horrified. And we didn’t believe him. We believed in love at first sight. White horses. Kismet. The fairytale we would tell our children and then our grandchildren. We would tell tales of the WOOING. In retrospect, George made some very solid points.

My parents had a rom-com-worthy meet cute. My Mom sat toward the front of the college history class. My Dad sat in the back in his pressed Gant shirts and desert boots. He thought her hair was beautiful. He asked to borrow her history notes one day. This is somewhat ridiculous since he was a history major, and she was not. But it worked. Very smooth move.

I recently ran across the Valentine’s card he gave to her in 1965. It was their first date. They saw a movie and went out for drinks. A Valentine’s card on a first date would be considered a very bold gesture by today’s standards.

Over the top. But this Valentine in 1965 remains intact today. Cherished historic artifact. That guy…he wooed.

My last first date was in 1992. We went to the science museum and then out to Green Mill for pizza and hot chocolate. Shortly thereafter my future husband mailed me a cocoa packet with a note written on a napkin from Green Mill. I still have it. What followed were stacks of letters and cards in his now very familiar looping script. Family heirlooms. I was wooed. This is not how relationships work now. Not the meeting. Not the communication. Not much of it. I can’t pretend to understand what it’s like to date in 2025, but I have adult children and single friends, and the process is quite bewildering to me. The on-ramp to actual dating seems so long that by the time people date, they are about to break up. The phone seems to be the third wheel in modern love stories. I barely trust someone to choose adequate avocados for me through an app, but people do get matched and find lifelong commitments through the phone.

Occasionally, I’ve suggested to the young ones they could simply walk up to someone and start a conversation. Create an opportunity. They have assured me that is absolutely out of

the question in almost every setting. It seems harder than ever to have a meet cute without an algorithm.

I worry most that they have no written record of their lives. Entire relationships start and end over Snapchat. No love letters. Text threads that get deleted. Accounts that get blocked. Digital photos in the digital trash. Certainly, very few Valentines saved like precious jewels for generations.

I have Rubbermaid tubs in my basement filled with letters from elementary school through young adulthood. So does my husband. Notes from friends written in class. Letters mailed from India and Thailand and France when friends were abroad. I have all of my parent’s Airmail letters when my Dad served in the Army during the Vietnam War. Hundreds of greeting cards.

I have no solutions. But maybe, like consumer purchases…shop local for love. Meet the sellers. Don’t try to find special at a superstore. Get a referral from a friend. The next part is how it has always been. A complete leap of faith. But maybe…send a card or two. Record the unique moment in time in a letter, a card, or the written word, even if you never learned cursive.

Make love last. Write it down.

Minded

COLUMN

BY JEN FORTNER

Jen Fortner is a freelance writer who enjoys asking friends and strangers far too many questions. She spends her spare time sitting in inclement weather watching youth sports, traveling, cooking, and searching for the very best baked goods. She lives in the Southwest Metro with her husband, three children and the most spoiled dog.

What’s New in Waconia

RIDGEVIEW OPENS URGENT CARE IN WACONIA

ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER

When it was announced that Ridgeview was opening an urgent care site in the Ridgeview Professional Building on the Waconia Campus, collective cheers could be heard echoing through the streets. Ridgeview has been caring for the community since 1963, and so, with the opening of Ridgeview’s sixth urgent care location, the news was received with excitement and gratitude. With its dedication to providing the best health care in Minnesota delivered with kindness, compassion, and intuition, Ridgeview has grown from a community-owned hospital with 45 beds to a nationally-recognized regional healthcare system. Through stateof-the-art technology, cutting-edge techniques and experienced specialists, Ridgeview now serves seven counties and beyond, and with a brand promise of “You Matter Here,” it’s no wonder they have a reputation for not just treating, but truly providing personalized care for every patient.

As Waconia and the surrounding area has grown, Ridgeview identified a need for this service and, after receiving feedback from the community, took action to offer urgent care to the Waconia community. Ridgeview launched virtual urgent care earlier in 2024, and in December 2024, opened the Waconia site. “We’re excited to provide the opportunity for area residents to receive the care they need when they or their families need it,” Ben Nielsen, Chief Operating Officer at Ridgeview, shares. This act of responsiveness solidifies Ridgeview’s commitment to its mission of enhancing the lifelong health of the people it serves, encouraging a culture that nurtures the whole person – mind, body, and spirit. It also demonstrates Ridgeview’s vision to be a regional, integrated health system recognized for quality and an exceptional, seamless experience.

HOW WILL URGENT CARE WORK?

Ridgeview’s urgent care service provides a convenient walk-in option seven days a week for patients ages 12 weeks and older with minor illnesses and injuries who don’t want to wait to schedule an appointment with their primary care provider.

URGENT CARE CONDITIONS:

• Allergic reactions, rashes, burns, insect stings, or skin infections (minor)

• Cough/mild wheezing

• Cuts, abrasions or bruises (minor)

• Ear pain

• Eye injury or irritation (minor)

• Fever

• Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea

• Orthopedic injuries (minor sprains, strains, or other conditions)

• Pregnancy testing without abdominal pain or heavy bleeding

• Seasonal allergies/sinus congestion

• Simple foreign body removal (skin, eyes, ears, and nose)

• Sore throat

• Upper respiratory issues

• Urinary or vaginal symptoms

Upon check-in, patients can inquire about the approximate wait time or choose to call the Waconia site ahead of their visit at 952-442-1774 for a best estimate. Every patient will leave with an after-visit summary prepared by their provider, which provides instructions on their care plan and next steps.

When visiting the Waconia site, you are invited to park in the main lot outside the Ridgeview Professional Building and enter through the front doors. Urgent care is located down one level in Suite #30. You can also choose to park in the Garden Level lot to the east side of the building and enter at the lower level.

For more information about the new Waconia site and other urgent care options, including virtual care, visit ridgeviewmedical.org/urgentcare

“We’re excited to provide the opportunity for area residents to receive the care they need when they or their families need it.”

A VISIT THAT’S OVERDUE

Shhhh! If you didn’t know, February is National Library Lover’s month. It’s a celebration that highlights libraries and the important role they play in communities. The library is a safe space that fosters lifelong learning and allows children and adults to tap into new interests and ideas. If you’re not already familiar with the local library in Waconia, then you should check it out.

PARTNERSHIPS

The Waconia Public Library is one of six full branches in the Carver County Public Library system that also includes four express branches. Through a joint powers agreement, the County provides the services that are offered in space that is owned by the City of Waconia. The Library is active with many community partners, including the Waconia school district and Crossings Senior Living. A few years ago, the library linked up with District 110 to form a unique service available to Waconia Middle School and Waconia Senior High School students. They offer a virtual library card system that allows students to use their school ID number as their library card, connecting them to reference databases, E-books, online encyclopedias, and other digital content. It’s a tremendous benefit and a convenient way for

students to utilize the library’s services and have various resources at their disposal without needing to purchase anything. The goal is to roll this initiative out to all the middle schools and high schools in Carver County, with Waconia Library leading the way.

PROGRAMS

The Carver County Library has very specific goals when it comes to achieving literacy rates for children, students, and families. They promote reading through a variety of different system-wide programs for all ages. The one with the largest emphasis is 1000 Books Before Kindergarten. Based on a national model, this program provides a structure for families to encourage reading at home from birth to age five.

“We provide robust early literacy initiatives that encourage families to read together because we know that it matters,” says Paul Ericsson, Branch Manager.

Storytime is also a popular pick for parents, grandparents, or other caregivers with toddlers and preschoolers. This drop-in program is offered five days a week at the Waconia

Library with lap-sit story time, toddler story time, family story time, and even a super storytime that includes an age-appropriate craft. These 20–30-minute sessions are packed with stories, puppets, and musical movement that encourages the development of early literacy skills. The staff are very intentional when preparing the weekly content and curriculum, so there’s always something new.

For elementary-aged kids, the library offers an after-school STEM program, book buddies, and their popular summer incentive reading challenge. While this is open to all youth, participation is largely by those in K-5. This was created to encourage reading when school is out and to measure reading comprehension skills during the summer season. Through the support of the Library Foundation, Carver County, the Friends of the Library, and the MELSA Regional Library System, prizes are awarded to those who read, record, and review their books. These might include free books, Barnes & Noble gift cards, and tickets and passes to various events and experiences around the Twin Cities. This program does require registration, so look for this in May.

CONTINUED >

Adults, don’t worry. The library has programs for you as well, including Winter Reads every January 1-February 28. Read or listen to books, complete your reviews online or through the Beanstack app, and enter to win prizes. It’s designed to give adults some structure around what they’re reading and when.

“We’re only serious about having fun,” shares Paul.

“WE PROVIDE ROBUST EARLY LITERACY INITIATIVES THAT ENCOURAGE FAMILIES TO READ TOGETHER BECAUSE WE KNOW THAT IT MATTERS. THE ONE WITH THE LARGEST EMPHASIS IS 1000 BOOKS BEFORE KINDERGARTEN, WHICH ENCOURAGES READING AT HOME FROM BIRTH TO AGE FIVE.”

All these programs (and more) can be found on the library’s website: carverlib.org

PAGES

Reading has evolved. Technology has allowed us to move from hardcovers and paperbacks to audio and E-readers. To no surprise, the library’s digital and audio services have grown exponentially over the last five years. Digital books are convenient, and they save space, which is a bonus for those who are traveling. However, the library recognizes there is still a strong preference to hold a physical book and turn a page. People who look at a screen all day long often opt for a paper book at night, so the library has become a beautiful blend of both worlds, offering options that cater to everyone’s needs and desires.

If you’re suffering some serious cabin fever right about now and need a good reason to get out, visit the Waconia Public Library. Check out their calendar and stop in for some Book Bingo or one of their craft projects, or secure a stack of stories that will take you into spring. It’s not just a mass repository of books and resources, it’s also a community center that brings people together and provides opportunities for education and entertainment.

“We’re more than books. The library is a safe space for the community to come and visit,” says Paul.

Come inside and explore! It’s more than a visit, it’s an adventure. And it wouldn’t be the month for library lovers if we didn’t have some book recommendations straight from the source. If you’re looking for a romance, something sweet, a book about human connection, relationships, or self-love, consider looking these up:

• How to End a Love Story by Yulin Kuang

• The Ministry of Time by Kaliane Bradley

• Just for the Summer by Abby Jimenez

• Radical Compassion by Tara Brach

• How to Know a Person by David Brooks

NOTES FROM the Heart

Explore how Waconia Music Studios inspires, teaches, and uplifts through music

ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER

Co-owner Scott Brose teaching a piano lesson with student.

Waconia Music Studios is a place where chords are taught and vocal techniques are honed, but it’s also where the love and energy of music are shared and celebrated. Guided by their shared passion for teaching music, Jay Downie and Scott Brose opened the warm and welcoming doors of this creative space in February of 2015, and the journey so far has been a humbling and gracious one. “We weren’t sure there would be enough interest for a music studio to be a sustainable business for many years, but Waconia has come through with flying colors! The incredible amount of support we’ve received from the community has been awesome,” Jay shares.

The teaching and learning at Waconia Music Studios is a mutual exchange where both Jay and Scott have come to realize that this community truly loves the arts. “We feel honored and humbled to teach music in such a great place.” As the studio celebrates its 10th anniversary this month, if their talent and influence have touched you in any way, you’d agree this gratitude is shared by many.

If you want to play the guitar or want to learn how to sing, you’re in luck. The creative offerings at Waconia Music Studios, however, don’t end there. “We really try to cover anything and everything,” Scott explains. If you can think of an instrument, odds are they teach it, and there are 11 amazing music teachers ready to welcome you in. “We share different teaching techniques and instructional methods among the staff - and just as important, we share those we don’t find effective,” Jay explains. “As the older teachers in the studio, Scott and I make it a point to take time to pass on words of advice to our newer teachers and help them maintain a good work-life balance. Our goal is to put our teachers, just like our students, in the best possible position for success, and we believe that open communication is important in making that happen.”

The passion that shines through every measured beat and word of encouragement was instilled early in Jay and Scott’s lives.

Co-owner Jay Downie giving drum lessons.

“It’s never too late to improve yourself. Just take that first step. You’ll be so happy that you did. Music does wonders for the soul.”

They were both fortunate to have excellent music teachers who inspired them to go into this line of work. “They lit a fire under their students to always do their best, which is what we strive to do at Waconia Music Studios,” Scott says. Not only did this artistic duo’s inspiration come from the classroom, but it also came from family. Jay’s grandparents were very musical, and his dad was a music teacher for many years. Scott felt a connection to music through his grandmother, who was a piano teacher and church organist.

These early life lessons and meaningful experiences have shaped their teaching style, helping Jay and Scott recognize that it’s the big and small moments that deepen their love for music education. “We have students who come in lacking confidence with a lot of anxiety, who, lesson by lesson, become more comfortable stepping outside their comfort zone and making mistakes. We have adult students who have thought for years about taking up an instrument, and they finally gain enough courage to put themselves out there and go for it. There are a ton of different stories we could share about students of all ages, further proving how good music is for the soul.”

So, when you’re ready to dust off that violin in the attic, allow Jay and Scott’s words to resonate in your mind. “It’s never too late to improve yourself. Just take that first step. You’ll be so happy that you did. Music does wonders for the soul.” And that’s a beautiful symphony to anyone’s ears. https://waconiamusicstudios.com

Valentine’s Day Done Right

Explore this love-filled list of local gifting and dining ideas (and an easy, delicious recipe to make in case you decide to celebrate at home)

It feels like you just decked the last hall, and here comes Valentine’s Day, tearing around the corner in its red glittery heart sweater and with a box of overpriced chocolates. And you thought holiday shopping and planning was tough – at least Santa was there for the assist! Getting creative for Valentine’s Day can be tough, but it doesn’t have to be. Let us help you make it a little easier with this list of ideas for gifting, going out, or staying in. Pfft, Santa Shmanta. Who needs him? Not you.

GIFTS

Churchills Quality Cigars & Gifts: Share the love this year with a rich and aromatic cigar. You’ll find accessories to accompany any gift for your stogie enthusiast in this charming, welcoming haven.

Infinity Diamond Jewelers: You know what they say, diamonds are a girl’s (and guy’s) best friend, so stop at this quaint downtown Waconia shop to get a new sparkly companion for your beloved.

ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER

Magnolia North: They have it all… apparel, candles, jewelry, and more. Make it simple and thoughtful with a swoon-filled surprise from this sweet boutique.

Nice Shirt, Co.: Wildcat lovers, young and old – and anyone who loves a cute and unique gift – will be ecstatic about a Valentine’s Day treat from this shop, which gives back a portion of its proceeds to local organizations.

Shop Chicks: Home goods, beauty products, and fun seasonal essentials are the perfect choice for your sweetheart or sweetkid.

The Stash: The team at The Stash is always up on the trends and down to help you find something that screams, “I love you!”

White Birch House: Gifts are their specialty, and helping you pick out “that something” is their pleasure. A great shopping experience accompanied by fantastic gifts is why this store is a must-visit.

EAT

Bode Gray’s: Baked Ratatouille, Wagyu Steak, Fennel Sausage pizza… you’ll be happy and full after an evening together at this casual yet elevated dining experience.

Garage Bar & Bowl: Bowling and pizza? Yep, and so much more for the entire family at this boutique bowling alley and modern, relaxed dining spot.

Iron Tap: Dozens of craft brews on tap and a lengthy menu of delicious cocktails and lunch and dinner items will have you coming back for more after your cozy Valentine’s Day date here.

Lola’s Lakehouse: Lake Waconia views and fine dining – what could be a better combination for a sweet, romantic escape?

Noble Lion: Small-town hand-crafted food awaits you at Noble Lion, a little taste of Europe in Victoria, Minnesota.

Sizzle Street: Waconia welcomed Sizzle Street to the community last year, and it has quickly become a favorite among all who walk through its doors. Amazing customer service and fresh Indian cuisine will win your heart (if it hasn’t already).

Winchester & Rye: This Whiskey bar atmosphere and tasty American fare merge to create a match made in heaven, just like you and your love.

HOME

BAKED RAVIOLI:

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped

• 1 small onion, chopped

• 1 1/2 lb ground beef

• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes

• 1 (15 oz) can crushed tomatoes

• 2 tsp Italian seasoning

• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes, optional

• 2 tsp kosher salt, plus more for the pasta water

• 1 tsp ground black pepper

• 1/3 cup chopped fresh basil, plus more to serve

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, plus more to serve

• 1 (22 oz) package of frozen cheese and spinach ravioli

• 3 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese, divided

DIRECTIONS:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the garlic and onion; cook, stirring until the onion is softened, about 6 minutes. Add the ground beef and cook, stirring to crumble, until beef is browned, 6 to 8 minutes. Drain off the fat, leaving a bit behind for flavor and moisture.

2. Add the crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce heat to medium-low to maintain a gentle simmer, and cook for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from the heat.

3. Preheat the oven to 375°. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and season well with salt. Cook the ravioli according to package directions, then drain. Toss the cooked ravioli with 2 cups of the meat sauce in a large bowl.

4. Spread 1 cup of the sauce in the bottom of a lightly greased 9-by-13-inch casserole dish. Arrange half of the ravioli in the dish, overlapping slightly. Spoon half of the remaining meat sauce over the top of the ravioli. Top with 2 cups of the mozzarella and 1/4 cup of the parmesan cheese. Sprinkle with the basil and parsley.

5. Arrange the remaining half of the ravioli on top of the cheese layer, overlapping slightly. Top with remaining meat sauce, 1 cup mozzarella, and 1/4 cup parmesan cheese.

6. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until bubbly. Let stand 10 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with additional chopped fresh basil and parsley before serving.

To complete the meal, serve it with a garden salad and breadsticks.

*Credit: The Pioneer Woman*

BLOOMING WITHLOVE

There’s just something about a small town, isn’t there? A familiar face on every corner almost always accompanied by a kind hello and a cozy sense of community. When you walk into your favorite local shop for your favorite local treasure, you more than likely feel that warmth of familiarity and connection. But when you step into one neighborhood establishment that offers cheer and comfort in the form of vibrant blooms and a trusted ear, that’s something extra special. The adage goes, April showers bring May flowers, but what does Main Street Floral bring? Joy, heartfelt gestures – and delightful flowers and gifts.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO START MAIN STREET FLORAL?

Randy and Avis Hammer were friends of mine and owned Curly Willow. They were ready to move on to the next phase of their lives and offered the business for sale. I have always wanted to own my own business but didn’t know what that would exactly look like. This was the perfect opportunity to bring a floral business back into downtown and grow it!

This Valentine’s Day say I love you with blooms and gifts from Main Street Floral

ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER

DO YOU WORK WITH LOCAL GROWERS OR HAVE SPECIAL SUPPLIERS?

We source primarily from Len Busch Roses in Plymouth and Koehler & Dramm Wholesale Florist in Minneapolis. I have the most amazing sales reps! In the summer months, we source from Rustic Designs Flower Farm in Belgrade. Mary, the owner, provides unique and beautiful stems during the outdoor growing season.

WHAT DO YOUR CUSTOMERS VALUE MOST ABOUT YOUR SERVICES?

Our customer base values our custom design work. They know we’ll maximize their budget with the most unique and beautiful stems.

IN YOUR EYES, WHAT MAKES A GREAT FLORAL ARRANGEMENT?

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder! We learn as much as possible about the sender and the recipient, ensuring the arrangement reflects what they find beautiful and meaningful.

HOW DO YOU PREPARE FOR THE RUSH OF CUSTOMERS AROUND VALENTINE’S DAY?

We have to order all of our Valentine’s Day florals by the beginning of January, which is always challenging. Knowing exactly how much our customers will want to order varies because Valentine’s Day falls on a different day each year. For example, statistically speaking, if Valentine’s Day is on a Friday through Sunday, customers may spend more on an evening out rather than on flowers.

WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR MOST POPULAR VALENTINE’S DAY ARRANGEMENTS?

A dozen red roses are still the gold standard. They’re elegant and send an important message.

CONTINUED >

HOW DO YOU HELP CUSTOMERS CHOOSE THE IDEAL BOUQUET FOR THEIR LOVED ONES?

We listen and ask questions about the message they are hoping to convey.

DO YOU OFFER UNIQUE VALENTINE’S DAY DEALS OR SPECIAL SERVICES?

Since all of our work is custom, most of our customers know to set their budget, and we’ll do the rest. We don’t have many set arrangements for Valentine’s Day, but we always have a variety of arrangements in our cooler for last-minute pick-ups.

WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR SOMEONE NEW TO BUYING FLOWERS FOR SPECIAL OCCASIONS LIKE VALENTINE’S DAY?

Determine what you can spend, find out if the recipient has any favorite flowers, and then give us a call. We can help guide you to the perfect choice!

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT BEING A FLORIST IN THIS COMMUNITY?

Waconia is an amazing community! The Chamber of Commerce and other business owners have created an incredibly collaborative environment. The community has supported us through COVID and the two years of street construction – we’re so grateful. Beyond that, we’re a place where people come to share their stories. We’ve heard amazing stories of joy and grief. Main Street Floral is a safe place to share because we keep these stories safe. I’m thankful to everyone who has trusted us with their stories and chosen us to meet their floral needs.

WHAT ELSE DO YOU WANT PEOPLE TO KNOW ABOUT MAIN STREET FLORAL?

We are also a gift shop! At least once a week, we have a customer stop in and tell us that they didn’t realize we have gifts too. We carry unique lines like Jellycat, which very few small shops do. We only offer brands that aren’t available at other shops in town.

To learn more about Main Street Floral or to order a gorgeous arrangement, visit mainstfloral.com/

Kevin Bohlig

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

FEBRUARY 1ST

Winter Wine Lodge

Schram Vineyards | 12:00 PM

Schram Vineyards' Winter Wine Lodge is going for three more weekends! On Saturday, February 1st, 8th, and 15th, come enjoy a bit of winter magic with different themes, local vendors, music, special attractions, and wine and food to fit every theme — Wine and Cheese, Cupid's Market, and Red, Red Wine and Chocolate! And for Galentine's Day fun, come out for Rom-Com Trivia Night on February 13th! schramvineyards.com/winterwinelodge

FEBRUARY 1ST

February Festival

Lake Ann Park | 12:00 PM

The annual February Festival is back for its 32nd year! A fun winter festival the whole family can enjoy, stop by Lake Ann Park for all the best winter activities from 12-3pm. There will be an ice fishing contest (pre-registration is encouraged) a snow shoe demonstration, horse drawn sleigh rides, fat tire bike demos, sled dogs, medallion hunt, concession to purchase and more!

FEBRUARY 8TH

Waconia Polar Plunge

Lola's Lakehouse | 11:00 AM

Ready to take the plunge?! Brave the cold and sign up for the annual Polar Plunge at Lola's Lakehouse! Jump into freezing cold water with friends and family on Saturday, February 8. Check-in and registration is at Lola's on Friday, February 7, from 4-6pm. The Plunge helps support Special Olympics Minnesota athletes. Always a fun event, participants also receive incentives, prizes, and giveaways. www.plungemn.org

FEBRUARY 9TH

Victoria Fire Relief Association's Annual Ice Fishing Contest

Stieger Lake | 12:30 PM

Grab your fishing gear and get ready for the Victoria Fire Relief Association’s annual Ice Fishing Contest on Sunday, February 9, from 12:30 to 2:30pm! The contest is free to enter, so it’s all about the thrill of the catch! Raffle tickets are $10 and can be snagged in advance from a Victoria Firefighter or at the event. It’s going to be a reel good time!

FEBRUARY 13TH

Galentine’s at Waconia Brewing Co!

Waconia Brewing Co. | 5:00 PM

Gather your girls and head to Waconia Brewing Co. for a Galentine’s event hosted by Heather Reichenberger with RE/MAX Results. All women in the Waconia area are invited to come and enjoy connecting with other women and celebrate V-Day. From 5-7pm, your first beverage is on Heather and there will be cake samples, brewery tours, trivia, and door prizes. Arrive early to get your name on the brewery tours!

FEBRUARY 15TH

Star Power 2025

Waconia High School | 9:00 AM

Don't miss an evening of star power at the annual Waconia show choir's Star Power 2025! One of the premiere high school show choir events in the Midwest, the show will be held all day at Waconia High School on Saturday, February 15th. Last year’s annual competition featured performances by more than 20 choirs hailing from Minnesota, Iowa, Wisconsin, South Dakota, and Nebraska. waconiachoirs.org/events/star-power-competition-copy-2/

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LOVE POTION #9

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY

BY ANNA BARNES

A PINK COCKTAIL PERFECT FOR CELEBRATING VALENTINE’S DAY

WHO NEEDS FLOWERS AND CHOCOLATE WHEN YOU CAN HAVE FLOWERS AND COCKTAILS?

This Valentine's Day, whether you plan to treat a loved one, treat your girlfriends, or treat yourself, I can promise you'll want to serve up this perfectly pink cocktail; one I like to call Love Potion #9. It looks as fabulous as it tastes. You can't beat the bright, fresh grapefruit juice and the bubbles add a lively kiss on top. Each sip is dreamier than the next. Cheers, here's to love!