REDOUX (home•garden•living) APRIL / MAY 2013

redoux home • garden • living

april | may 2013 • free

mississippi, st. croix + cannon river valleys

SPECIAL WEDDING ISSUE A CIRCLE OF TRUST

CUSTOMIZED WEDDING RINGS FOR ALL BUDGETS

2013 WEDDING FLORALS NATURALS AND NEUTRALS REFRESH WEDDING STYLES

IN THE GARDEN

THESE AREN’T YOUR GRANDMOTHER’S PEONIES

DAYTRIPPING

FOUR LOCAL DESTINATIONS OFFER ROMANTIC GETAWAYS

ON THE TABLE

PHIPPS INN TRIPLE LAYER MINT BROWNIES

St.Paul, MN 10

JUNE BLOOM WINE EVENT June 1-2

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Hastings, MN

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Cannon Falls, MN

HOLIDAY HARVEST WINE & FOOD FESTIVAL November 9-10

Prescott, WI

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Hager City, WI 35

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Red Wing, MN

Tickets are $30 for two days of sampling.

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11am to 6 pm (both dates)

Stockholm, WI Nelson, WI

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5 Alma, WI

Wabasha, MN

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Winona, MN

Rochester, MN

Wine Trail Map Key

For tickets, winery maps, and mileage charts, visit greatriverroadwinetrail.org.

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Wilson, MN

Fountain City, WI Bluff Siding, WI

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1. Cannon River Winery

Galesville, WI 54 53 93 35

Trempealeua, WI

90

52

Onalaska, WI 53

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La Crescent, MN

421 Mill St W, Cannon Falls, MN 507-263-7400

2. Falconer Vineyards Winery

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3572 Old Tyler Road, Red Wing, MN 651-388-8849

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Coon Valley, WI

Lanesboro, MN

yR unt Co

3. Valley Vineyard

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La Crosse, WI

W10415 - 521st Ave., Prescott, WI 715-262-4235

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4. Maiden Rock Winery & Cidery

W12266 King Lane, Stockholm, WI 715-448-3502

5. Danzinger Vineyards

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S2015 Grapeview Lane, Alma, WI 608-685-6000

De Soto, WI

Lansing, IA

6. Seven Hawks Vineyards

17 North Street, Fountain City, WI 866-946-3741

7. Garvin Heights Vineyards

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Waukon, IA Harpers Ferry, IA

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2255 Garvin Heights Road, Winona, MN 507-313-1917

8. Elmaro Vineyard

N14756 Delaney Rd. , Trempealeau, WI 608-534-6456

9. Eagles Landing Winery

127 North Street, Marquette, IA 563-873-2509

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Decorah, IA

35

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Marquette, IA 52

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Prairie du Chien, WI

Westby, WI

PUBLISHER Nichole Day Diggins | Flying Pan Productions EDITOR Elizabeth Child COPY EDITORS Jodi Ohlsen Read Linda Day Dunlap CONTRIBUTORS Elizabeth Child Emily Cusstard Dori Haugen Judy Krohn Beth Shide ART DIRECTOR / DESIGN Nichole Day Diggins SALES Dori Haugen Linda Day Dunlap REDOUX HOME • PO BOX 148, Northfield, MN 55057 p: 507.301.9710 e: info@redouxhome.com All rights reserved. Copyright 2013.

Copies of this publication or its contents may not be made for promotional purposes. For article reprints, contact REDOUX HOME at info@redouxhome.com. to advertise: 507.301.9710 www.redouxhome.com Distributed in the Mississippi, St. Croix and Cannon River Valleys: Northfield • Cannon Falls • Red Wing • Lake City • Hastings • Hudson • Stillwater • Stockholm • Pepin • Maiden Rock • Bay City

Membership Drive during the month of April - Come and grow with us!

New hours beginning April 7!

Open 7 days a week from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.

516 Water Street S, Northfield • 507-650-0106 • www.justfood.coop

april|may 2013 features 07

2013 Wedding Florals Naturals & neutrals refresh wedding styles.

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creating a circle of trust

Customized wedding rings join unique individuals.

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nine questions about your wedding venue When planning a wedding, know what to ask.

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09

19

is real estate springing back?

Maybe it’s time to move forward with your housing plans.

departments 05

editor’s note

15

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redouxhome.com

APRIL | MAY 2013

daytripping: uniquely romantic

Four local destinations are a far cry from the ordinary.

17 – 19

on the table

Phipps Inn Triple Layer Mint Brownies and Asparagus, Potato and Spinach Vichysoisse.

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in the garden

These aren’t your grandmother’s peonies.

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interiors

Kitchen remodeling: Where to begin.

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editor’s note

I do, I do.

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It’s nearly the season for nuptials, and if you’re tying the knot we have experts to help inspire beautiful memories to fill the wedding albums.

I was lucky enough to know myself pretty well when I got married.

I waited a long time to get hitched. My husband always says ours was the best wedding he’d ever been to. It was casual and fun with mini-golf and croquet in a beautiful venue on a gorgeous day.

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APRIL | MAY 2013

But I failed to listen to the sage advice of my good friend about one thing – she said, “You won’t eat at your wedding so be sure there’s food wherever you’re going afterwards.” A trip to the powder room proved her right. Guests kept trickling in like a reception line and I missed dinner. My downtown hotel was too classy to sport a minibar; I could have eaten the bed covers.

Truth be told, no wedding is ever perfect so get ready to laugh at the little mistakes – like the bride who stepped in a bowl of chocolate frosting while practicing walking in her wedding pumps the day before the wedding (my friend). Or the parents who ate the top layer of the wedding cake – the one that’s supposed to be saved for the bride and groom. Or the musicians who can’t play ‘your song’ because they don’t know it (both happened to me).

In this issue we introduce you to wedding planners and designers including Victoria Wolf from the St. James Hotel’s Wedding Team who discusses venues, floral artist Gabby Joseph who knows what’s in and out in flowers, and custom jewelry designers David Inlow and Susan Crow, who share their perspective on selecting engagement and wedding rings.

Sit back and listen. And then expect the unexpected.

Elizabeth Child, editor editor@redouxhome.com

Experience Hudson with independent shops galore paired with award winning restaurants. Escape across the river and into Historic Hudson an unforgettable experience.

experiencehudson.com

Pratt-Taber Inn

Abigail Page Antiques Afton House Inn & Afton Hudson Cruise Lines Art Doyle’s Spokes & Pedals Barker’s Bar and Grill Casanova Liquors CocoBello Dilly-Dally Gift Shoppe Élan Et Cetera Grapevine Interiors “At Home” Hello the House

Knoke’s Chocolates La Rue Marché Lakefront Framing Lavender Thymes Marnie Marie Photography The Nova Pangea Pier 500 Phipps Inn Bed & Breakfast San Pedro Café Seasons on St. Croix Gallery

©2013 Hudson Advertising Opportunities Group.

2013 Wedding Florals Naturals & Neutrals Refresh Wedding Styles

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APRIL | MAY 2013

by Elizabeth Child

G

abby Joseph has never met a bridezilla and she’s thankful. The floral designer who specializes in weddings says many of the brides with whom she works are on the conservative side. They may be paying for their own weddings with a little help from parents, and they share her Midwestern values. Even so, most are aware of popular trends with idea generating websites like Pinterist, and over-the-top reality shows calling out to them. All the input can be overwhelming.

Joseph says she can keep brides on-trend and on-budget to produce a beautiful wedding.

She started working in retail floral shops in high school doing the unglamorous jobs of sweeping floors and making deliveries. She worked her way up to designer about 15 years ago, plying her craft at Hudson’s Vine Street Florist until the popular long-time owner died.

She’s left the retail business to focus on her artistic side. Moss River Flower Studio is in her Hudson home’s lower level, sporting a prized 8-foot by 8-foot cooler that keeps her floral materials fresh.

But clients often see her in their own homes instead, where she comes armed with key questions and listens for the uniqueness of each couple’s style.

GABBY JOSEPH Using elements of nature & the freshest flowers to create the perfect touch.

715.760.2233 • mossriverflowerstudio.com

Texture: Plant variety is key this year. Joseph achieves texture in a bouquet by adding the romantic soft feel of jasmine and interesting foliage. Succulents are playing a huge part in adding versatility to bouquets, boutonnieres, table décor and centerpieces.

Contrasting flowers for fashion prints: Celebratory prints including stripes and polka dots are back in fashion. If the bridesmaids are wearing patterns, their bouquets need to be monochromatic – think all shades of pinks or purples. The print and monochromatic theme can carry into all parts of the décor.

Color: The seasonal color according to trendmaker Pantone, is green – emerald green to be exact, says Joseph. Think ferns and ivy, she says. Greens are often used as neutrals in design and work well with every other color. They allow the natural theme to flourish.

Jewel Tones: Eggplant, burgundy and deep rich pink are back. The soft romantic palate that has been popular for many years still has its place, but jewel colors offer new, elegant possibilities.

Ribbons and feathers: The aviary trend in home and clothing fashion is alive and well in the world of floral décor. Floating ribbons on bouquets with lace, bird nests with flowers and bird cages on tables extend the theme. Even invitations and thank you cards carry the aviary theme.

Simplicity for second weddings: Second (third or fourth) weddings almost always are more reserved than first weddings. A couple of orchids or Calla lilies and greens as a bouquet are simple and understated but elegant. They offset a dress – that most likely won’t be white.

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gabby@mossriverflowerstudio.com

Cascading bouquets: In recent years brides favored spherical, hand-tied wedding bouquets but now they are favoring asymmetrical arrangements that feel more organic and less formalized.

APRIL | MAY 2013 redouxhome.com

No two weddings are alike, she says, and that’s the fun of it. She can help couples find their style by seeing pictures of the dresses or, better yet, handling swatches of the fabric and talking with the bride or couple. That said, the trends in 2013 capture her imagination and they might just add a fresh feel to your traditional or casual wedding.

Floral Trends

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Customized wedding rings join unique individuals.

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EATING “I have made jewelry that is over $10,000 and I have made jewelry for $150,” David Inlow says. He’ll work in silver instead of gold, and rebuild and refurbish a mother’s wedding ring to help a couple afford a ring updated for their tastes.

OF T LE

BY ELIZABETH CHILD

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hoosing an engagement or wedding ring is the final act of courtship — and usually mirrors the relationship.

Since I was the one who said, “Don’t you think we should set a date for our wedding?” it’s not surprising that I picked out my wedding ring, too. As is now obvious to you, I am not a traditionalist, so I had it custom-made.

But I wish I’d had a designer like David Inlow or Susan Crow–custom jewelry designers in Northfield and Hudson respectively–who not only design beautiful one-of-akind pieces, but also know how to craft a style to suit the individual’s (or couple’s) tastes. In my case I had only a vague sense of what I wanted translated to a wedding ring that didn’t showcase my personal style. Worse, my deep blue sapphire fell out of its all-too-clever setting and down some rabbit hole. (Luckily, my marriage has not befallen a similar fate.)

Custom jewelry designers like Inlow and Crow have to read their clients well to zero in on a ring that they’ll love wearing day in and out, and that reflects the emotion of weaving two lives together.

A Father-Son Tradition Inlow Design Jewelers in Hudson originally opened in 1985 in Northfield. Richard Inlow thought the town with the thriving downtown foot-traffic was perfect for a custom jeweler. But the commute proved daunting for Inlow and he soon relocated the business closer to home.

Son David, once a watchmaker, now partners with his father from whom he learned his craft. He favors elegant designs that evoke a flow of movement. If a client comes in with a distinct stone he or she wants set, he’ll study its shape and color and let the stone dictate the style. If a couple likes symmetry, Inlow gladly designs to the couple’s taste. But if it’s simply balance they’re after, Inlow may invoke his ability to bring a natural twist to the setting that’s both graceful and unique. You can see a sample at www. inlowdesignsjewelers.com.

y Susan Crow

eco-wedding collections

Susan Crow is known for clean, architectural lines in her work.

Sustainable Jewelry At her Northfield-based design studio East Fourth Street, Susan Crow crafts jewelry which is showcased on her website (www.eastfourthstreet.com) as well as through art and fashion venues including Walker Art Center’s annual Jewelry Mart and southern Minnesota’s fall Studio ArTour. Last year her work was included in New York Fashion Week’s GreenShows. She holds a Sustainable Design certificate from the Minneapolis College of Art and Design and creates environmentally responsible jewelry, which means a lot more than using reclaimed metals and gemstones. Her low-impact footprint means taking ethical mining into consideration as well as responsible use and disposal of all materials. Stylistically, she says she is known for the clean architectural lines in her work.

She’s also a bit of a sleuth. To ascertain a person’s sense of style, she fishes for clues. After all, most non-designers aren’t used to verbalizing their tastes. “How do you arrange the furniture in your living room?” she asks. Do you have a couch flanked by two end tables? If so, you are going to be most comfortable with a symmetrical piece of jewelry. Like Inlow, she emphasizes balance even in asymmetrical pieces.

CONFLICT FREE DIAMONDS FAIR TRADE GEMSTONES ECO-FRIENDLY GOLD www.eastfourthstreet.com

612-735-1712

◀ LEFT: Sapphire ring set by Susan Crow.

RIGHT: Custom band by Inlow Designs.

◀

Practically Speaking Crow and Inlow inspire you to think through many questions when purchasing a fine piece of jewelry that suits you. You need to know: Will there be an engagement and a wedding ring that need to work together? Will the ring have a diamond? What is the diamond or other stone’s shape? Will the setting be in white or yellow gold, silver or a combination. What is the price point for the gem and the ring?

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And these questions aren’t pointed solely at the bride-to-be.

“Men’s jewelry is the fastest growing segment in the jewelry market,” says Crow, a professional trend watcher.

Cherish Your Ring Of all the considerations in designing a ring, lifestyle brims to the top. If you’re a woman, picture yourself wearing the traditional diamond solitaire that sits up on its base like a Roman bust on a museum podium. Now picture your life. Do you rock climb?

Do you get your nails done weekly? Or something in between.

“If you’re going to invest in fine jewelry you need to realize it’s not as sturdy as you might think,” Crow explains. “If you spent a tremendous amount on fine Italian leather shoes, you wouldn’t wear them gardening or in a rain storm.” Clients who want to wear their wedding rings no matter what they’re doing need durability, such as a setting with stones inset rather than raised.

Jewelry designers not only bring their own perspective to the design process to help you find your unique style, they can also nudge you in new directions. Trends you might consider include the diamond shape du jour, which Inlow says is the “cushion” shaped diamond—a square diamond with rounded edges.

Other trends Crow identifies include mixing golds; stacking three or four rings that fit together; brushed, hammered and textured surfaces; and art deco styling.

Rings True To be sure clients will be satisfied with their rings, both Inlow and Crow go to great lengths to show what the final piece will look and feel like. Inlow may start with a 3-D computer drawing. Each designer uses “lost wax casting” to create perfect wax facsimiles of the final ring so the client can try it on before it is cast. In lost wax casting the wax is “lost” because it melts away when the ring is cast.

Add up all the steps, and customization can sound expensive, but these designers work within your budget. “I have made jewelry that is over $10,000 and I have made jewelry for $150,” Inlow says. He’ll work in silver instead of gold, and rebuild and refurbish a mother’s wedding ring to help a couple afford a ring updated for their tastes.

Where there’s a will, there’s a way, and designers like nothing better than making signature jewelry to treasure and last as long as love.

715.386.3551 • inlowdesignsjewelers.com • 523 2nd St. Hudson, WI

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APRIL | MAY 2013

Nine Niggling Questions About Your

Wedding Venue When planning a wedding, know what to ask about the space you’re renting.

B

efore you can lose yourself in the romance of your wedding day, there are some nitty-gritty details to consider and one of the biggest is the venue. To help you plan a wedding to

match your style and accommodate your guests while avoiding the unexpected, REDOUX asked Victoria Wolf, wedding manager at the St. James Hotel in Red Wing, to share her

considerable experience. Wolf and her wedding team plan more than 60 weddings every

year in the popular destination-wedding venue on the banks of the Mississippi River. Wolf’s guidance includes orchestrating spaces for ceremonies, receptions, rehearsal dinners and gift openings at the historic hotel.

THE SPACE Even if you had your dream wedding venue picked out at age six, there’s plenty to think about before committing to a space.

» Will your guests fit? Make sure you take into account the

size and capacity of the space you are considering when putting together your guest list. Also keep in mind that wedding guest lists usually start out a little larger than they end up. Statistics say that 25 percent of guests invited to a wedding will not come due to prior commitments.

Will you be able to decorate? Talk to your contact at the »venue about rules and restrictions on decorations. For example, flames and glitter are often prohibited. On the other hand, your venue contact knows what looks good and fits in the room and can recommend vendors who can help as well. Call them up and discuss your thoughts! It’s all too easy to go crazy on Pinterest and lose sight of what will look good in your space.

can you have access to your space? You don’t want »toWhen spend time and money on decorations that you won’t have time to put up or take down, so be aware of the times you will have access to the room. There might be an event booked in the same room the day before, earlier the same day or soon after your end time.

you have the ceremony and reception in the same » Can venue? Yes, your wedding really is all about you—but your

THE FOOD AND ALCOHOL Let’s get real—the food is very important to your guests. You’ll want everyone to enjoy it, including you. Some investigation is necessary:

Does your venue provide in-house catering? In-house »catering is by far the most convenient way for you to plan

THE CONTRACT As always, it’s important to understand the document you are signing. Ask your venue contact any questions you might have and be sure to get answers to these two questions:

» Do they offer a complimentary tasting? You need to like

» What is included in the room fee? Essentially, this asks

what you will need to rent besides the room itself. Sometimes cheaper room rental means you have to spend money on linen, napkins, centerpieces, chairs, etc.

» What is the cancellation policy? Plans change—even

the food served at your wedding. Simple as that. Talk to your venue contact about arranging a tasting for the two of you.

This also is a good time to go over details and timelines with him or her. they have the appropriate licenses and » Do registrations? If not, you may need to take out insurance in order to bring and serve your own alcohol.

St. James Hotel (www.St-James-Hotel.com) is located at 406 Main Street, Red Wing, Minnesota, 55066, and the Wedding Team can be reached at 800-252-1875.

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wedding plans. Get familiar with the cancellation policy before signing! In general, standard policy states that your deposit is non-refundable once it’s made and you have signed the contract. This provides some security for the venue as they have to turn down other brides and grooms for that date after having reserved it for you.

and coordinate your meal with the rest of your day. If it’s not an option, be clear on your venue’s rules on bringing in an outside caterer or your own food.

APRIL | MAY 2013 redouxhome.com

guests are important for your experience as well! Remember to make the transition between ceremony and reception as easy as possible for them. After all, you don’t want guests to go missing trying to find the right place… If you can’t find a venue with enough space for it all, try to arrange a shuttle service between your ceremony, reception and guestrooms.

daytripping

Uniquely Romantic

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Four local destinations are a far cry from the ordinary

BY DORI HAUGEN

“Love can make you do things that you never thought possible.� Phil Collins Okay, we know what love is. But the question is: Where is it? Every year, millions of people fly around the world trying to find it: in restaurants with romantic ambiance, on warm sandy beaches, in exotic hotels. Search no more. Explore one of the many exotic adventures or romantic lodging establishments closer to home.

So where are the most romantic places to go? Well, the list is about as long as those walks on the beach at sunset, but I have a few recommendations for you and your special someone.

Love Nests in Hastings

How about a hibernation love retreat snuggled up to a wood burning fireplace at Hastings’ Classic Rosewood Inn & Spa, a Bed and Breakfast, or Thorwood Condos where you have a kitchen to add flavor to your retreat. If you both need to relax, luxuriate in a massage at their new in-house spa with side-by-side massage tables and order a simple supper to be served afterwards.

Breakfast is included at Classic Rosewood, and Thorwood offers a gourmet kitchen for preparing your own signature love potions. Be sure to consider one of their Romance and Relaxation Packages including romance baskets and special events for your romantic getaway, honeymoon, anniversary or wedding. Popular packages include winery tours, horseback trail rides and playing with heavy machinery at Extreme Sandbox. The Classic Rosewood is listed in the National Registry of Historic Places. ClassicRosewood.com

A Touch of Venice in Stillwater

If a magical cruise on the water moves you, Gondola Romantica offers classy gondola rides along the St. Croix River bluffs of downtown Stillwater. Owner John Kerschbaum honed his skills under the tutelage of an experienced Gondolier in Venice, Italy, and has been rowing lovers in his authentic Venetian gondolas since 2001. You are invited to celebrate anniversaries, marriage proposals, weddings, birthdays or skim the water in simple relaxation. You are welcome to bring your own picnic and beverage, or let Gondola Romantica provide it for you. If you prefer, you can book a gondola package that includes a meal at the Dock Café. Kerschbaum treats you to beautiful, romantic experiences, including sunset cruises to float your boat.

GondolaRomantica.com

Victorian Luxury in Hudson

In Hudson, Wisconsin, near the St. Croix River is the beautiful Victorian mansion, the Phipps Inn Bed and Breakfast— “Grand Dame” of Queen Anne houses.

Six suites are luxuriously furnished and comfortable with queen size beds, fireplaces, whirlpool tubs and amenities.

To add a special touch to your romantic getaway, consider taking advantage of their “Stay and See a Play Package” at Phipps Center for the Arts. Owners Rich and Mary Ellen Cox are known for their friendly yet unobtrusive hospitality and four-course gourmet breakfasts. Everyone who loves a well-kept inn with ornate woodwork and all things related will enjoy their stay. The Phipps Inn is listed in the National Registry of Historic Places. PhippsInn.com

Secluded B&B&B near Red Wing

That’s Bed, Breakfast and BREAD! If you long for a taste of peaceful countryside and a unique blend of early American and European ambiance, stay at the Round Barn Farm Bed and Breakfast and Bread nestled in Flower Valley just south of Red Wing. This delightful B&B is based on an 1861 country manor home plan and features five spacious suites with king or queen size feather beds, gas fireplaces and whirlpool tubs. Elaine and Robin Kleffman serve a memorable three-course breakfast and send you home with their signature loaf of buttermilk bread (which just happens to be in the shape of the barn!). Enjoy 35 acres of fields, woodlands and bluffs. The Dammon Round Barn is listed on the National Register of Historic Buildings and guests are treated to a history tour. RoundBarnFarm.com

If you believe in magic...

Every choice made during the saving, restoring and polishing of this grand old Queen Anne was made by the desire to slow the pace and soothe the weary soul.

All rooms have private baths and 7 of 8 have double whirlpool baths and wood burning fireplaces.

Famous for really good food using local and organics and always to our guests’ schedule.

Never an empty cookie jar!

651.437.3297 • classicrosewood.com • Four blocks from downtown Hastings

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on the table

Phipps Inn Triple Layer Mint Brownies Brownie layer: 1 cup sugar ½ cup softened butter ½ teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon vanilla 4 eggs 1 cup flour 1 16 ounce can Hershey’s chocolate syrup Directions: Mix first four ingredients. Mix in eggs, then flour and chocolate syrup. Pour into a greased 11” X 17” pan. Bake 20-25 minutes at 350 degrees. Cool.

Mint layer: 3 cups powdered sugar 3 tablespoons milk 5 drops green food coloring ¾ cup softened butter 1 teaspoon peppermint extract Directions: Mix all ingredients and spread on cooled brownie. Refrigerate 20 minutes.

April 6 - 30th

Sand Painting:

Contemporary Perspective/Ancient Tradition

Hand Crafted rugs from

guatamalan

and

red Wing artisans

MAy 6th - June 23rd 418 Levee Street, Red Wing, MN www.redwingartsassociation.org

Join the flock!

Topping layer: 2½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips ¾ cup butter 3 tablespoons milk

Visit our on-farm store with foods from over 60 local farmers and food producers.

Directions: Melt chocolate chips and butter in microwave.

Stir, then add milk and stir until smooth. Pour over mint layer. Refrigerate until set – at least half an hour. Cut into bars. Makes 50-60 bars. Store in refrigerator. (Also freezes well.)

Our own free-range and antibiotic-free turkey products are also available at Twin Cities natural food stores and co-ops.

Recipe by Mary Ellen Cox, Phipps Inn Bed and Breakfast 1005 3rd Street, Hudson, WI 715.386.0800 • PhippsInn.com

Located in scenic Cannon Falls www.ferndalemarketonline.com 507.263.4556

19 redouxhome.com APRIL | MAY 2013

on the table

Asparagus, Potato Spinach Vichysoisse

& RED WING, MN

Serves 6-8 Ingredients 2 tablespoons unsalted butter 4 cloves of garlic, peeled and chopped 1 medium white or yellow onion, peeled and chopped 1 leek, halved lengthwise, sliced and well-rinsed 3 cups peeled and chopped russet potatoes 6 cups chicken stock (preferably homemade) 1 bunch of asparagus (about 1 pound) 1 cup of packed fresh spinach leaves ½ cup heavy cream or sour cream Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste Zest and juice of 1 lemon Reserved asparagus tips & chopped fresh chives or dill, to garnish

Pancake Mix • • • •

Original • Buckwheat Apple Cinnamon Banana • Raspberry Almond Pecan Walnut

Kids’ Favorite Meal!

At Your Local Grocer

1-800-201-9650

www.sturdiwheat.com

Preparation: Melt the butter in a large soup pan over medium-high heat. Add garlic, onions and leek; cook and stir occasionally until softened, 3-5 minutes. Add potatoes and stock; bring the soup to a boil, then cover and reduce the heat to simmer the soup until the potatoes are quite tender, about 20 minutes.

Meanwhile, trim the bottoms of the asparagus; peel the stems if they seem rather tough and chop them into ½ inch pieces. Drop the tips of the asparagus into boiling water and cook until barely tender, drain and chill in cold water; reserve for garnish.

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When the potatoes are tender, add the chopped asparagus stems to the soup and continue to cook until they are just tender, 4-5 minutes longer. Remove the soup from the heat and add the spinach leaves. Let the soup stand 1-2 minutes, to wilt the spinach. Transfer the solids from the soup to a food processor or food mill, and puree lightly, in batches. Return the puree to the broth in the soup pan; whisk in the cream, and season with salt and pepper. Add the zest and juice of the lemon.

Reheat the soup as necessary, then serve, garnished with the blanched asparagus tips and a few chopped chives. Tiny chive blossoms also make a lovely garnish.

This soup can also be served chilled, but may need to be thinned and re-seasoned with salt and pepper before serving.

323 1⁄2 Main ◀

Red Wing

651-388-6099

Recipe courtesy of Judy Krohn, House Chef at The Palate Gourmet Kitchen Store in Stockholm, Wisconsin. She recently retired from 32 years as one of the chefs at the Harbor View Café in Pepin, Wisconsin. www.thepalate.net

in the garden

The

Queen of the Garden

These aren’t your grandmother’s peonies.

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BY BETH SHIDE In the floral world there is nothing more lush than a fragrant bouquet of peonies. But myths surrounding this ‘Queen of the Garden’ tarnish her luster. People say her bloom time is too short. Others bemoan that her opulent flowers flop to the ground. Still others attracted to her majesty feel they’ve missed the season by failing to plant bare root peonies in the fall. As a peony grower let me share several strategies to renew your love affair with my favorite flower.

Extending the blooms It turns out there are a wide variety of peonies and they have differing bloom times. You can add several weeks to your garden’s striking peonies by planting early-, mid- and lateseason bloomers.

And there’s another way to extend the bloom time. Did you know you can cut peony stems, wrap them in newspaper and place in a plastic bag in your fridge for a month and they will still bloom? Simply take them out, re-cut the stem by about an inch and place it in water. When you are first cutting the stem from the plant the buds should be fairly tight, just showing color on the outer petals. If you have space in your fridge you also can also put stems with tight buds in water to store for later bouquets.

If you want to enjoy the blooms right away, the best time to cut the stems is early in the day. Pick buds that feel like a marshmallow when you press the top of the bud with your thumb. Let them rest in the shade without water for about 30 minutes, and then re-cut the stems and place them in a vase with lukewarm water and a floral preservative. Your bouquet will last a week or more with a daily change of water. Continue to re-cut the stems periodically.

Plant peonies in spring Normally people in garden centers are abuzz about peonies each fall because that’s the best time to plant bare-root peonies. At my garden nursery and other select perennial nurseries, nearly all the interest comes in late spring and early summer when the plants are blooming. A shopper can find peonies that have been potted the previous fall and then overwintered for spring sales.

Seek stems that stand tall When many people think of peonies, they remember their grandmother’s pink, white or magenta plants that needed staking to keep from flopping over. In the last 30 years, breeding by peony aficionados has resulted in incredible colors and forms in peony flowers, many of which don’t need staking.

There are more than 7,500 named varieties of peonies. Find a new variety to fit a more carefree gardening style.

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Double peonies have multiple rows of petals resulting in full, round blooms and are usually the most fragrant of all peonies.

The most dramatic changes have come from crossing tree peonies with herbaceous peonies, called intersectional hybrids. They were first bred by Toichi Itoh in Japan and are commonly called Itoh hybrids. The first introductions were beyond the pocketbook of most gardeners, but in recent years, increases in the supply and number of varieties have brought the cost down so avid peony gardeners can afford to have one or two in their garden. Probably the best known Itoh hybrid, and for good reason, is ‘Bartzella’, a lovely large yellow with a lemony fragrance. Another plus for Itohs is that they grow at one and a half to two times the rate of herbaceous peonies.

Planting and Care If you purchase potted peonies in the spring, make sure they are from roots that were potted the previous fall and are in pots large enough for the roots. Otherwise, you can buy bare root stock for fall planting.

Peonies are fairly forgiving but the better the soil, the better the plant. One thing peonies don’t like is wet soil, so if the soil is clay, add peat moss and pelitized gypsum to help with drainage. Dig a hole about 2 feet in diameter and add your soil amendments. If you add fertilizer, make sure it is a low number, that the nitrogen is no higher than the potassium and phosphorus content, something like a 4-6-4 ratio.

Compost and a sprinkling of bone meal are great additions.

Spread the roots out and make sure the eyes of the peony are no deeper than 1 to 2 inches below the surface. Tamp the soil down, water, and get ready for years of enjoyment!

Beth Shide and her husband, Harley Cochran, operate Stockholm Gardens, a nursery & landscape business. StockholmGardens.com.

Learn more: www.americanpeonysociety.org www.mnpeony.org www.wipeonysociety.org www.paeo.de

Providing Superior Products & Services

Opening our greenhouse April 20! We buy local & unique varieties that you will not find anywhere else!

Annuals! Hanging Baskets! Herbs! Native Plants!

Perennials! Prairie Grasses! Vegetables!

Breakfast • Lunch • Pastries www.nesbittsnursery.com

N4380 Hwy 35 Prescott, Wisconsin

715.792.2676

interiors

Kitchen Remodeling: Where to begin

If you’ve never remodeled, it can seem like

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stepping into a foreign land. Maybe you have done weekend projects—switching out

hardware in your kitchen, painting walls, or installing new flooring–but a complete kitchen

remodel is no weekend project. It is a big

process that takes a considerable amount of time and money to pull off. If you are not well prepared before you start, you may not

get the results you want. Emily Custard, an interior designer working with Schmidt Home Remodeling, answers some of the most common kitchen remodeling questions.

Where do I begin?

Defining your project scope and budget, and doing your research are the very first steps when considering a remodel of any kind. The time and thought you put into these steps will be reflected in how satisfied you are with your completed project.

Determine your project’s scope by assessing what works and doesn’t work in your current space – you do not have to come up with all the solutions (that is what we professionals are here to help you with), but you live and work in the space and know best how you function. Do your research; assess your current financial situation – what can you afford? Create inspiration boards online at Pinterest, set up idea books on Houzz, check out a few showrooms to determine the level of finish you would be satisfied with and be mindful about your budget. While it is hard to put specific numbers on selections this early in the game, you can get a feel for your tastes in terms of low, mid and high-end ranges.

I can’t afford to spend $25,000... does that mean I can’t remodel my kitchen?

I heard someone once say that asking how much a typical kitchen remodel costs is like asking how long a typical piece of string is. If you have a small kitchen and are satisfied with entry-level finishes, you may be able to spend as little as $10,000. That really is more of a face-lift, no walls would be moved and existing appliances would stay. I would say the most common/mid-level range we see for a kitchen remodel is $35,000-$60,000 and that would include moving a wall or two and purchasing new appliances. We also do custom and high-end kitchens that can range from $60,000-$90,000. So, I guess the answer is yes, we work with all budgets!

Visit our Showroom Today!

1325 Armstrong Road Northfield, MN 55057 507-663-0482

www.SchmidtHomes.com

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interiors

How do I decide what to contract out and what to do myself?

If you have the time and are interested in saving money, look over your project and determine which things you would be comfortable doing yourself. Think hard about these areas and be honest with yourself – will you actually have the time? Do you have the skill to meet your expectations?

The most common things I see clients DIY are painting and demolition, but beyond that, a professional is typically better suited to do the job more efficiently and has the experience to skip over commonly made rookie mistakes. I have seen many situations where a client has had to hire a professional to re-do a DIY gone bad, or left unfinished.

Why is a ‘work triangle’ important in a kitchen?

The work triangle is one of the planning guidelines developed by the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) to increase the effectiveness and functionality of the kitchen. It has minimum and maximum travel distances between commonly used work centers (typically the refrigerator, sink and range), and requires that the path of travel between those work centers is not interrupted by physical obstacles or primary traffic patterns. The NKBA has many guidelines for kitchen and bathroom planning, and while they are not codes or laws, they can greatly improve the functionality of your space, and should always be considered in the kitchen’s design.

How long does a typical remodel take?

The time it takes for a remodel depends on many factors, including the scope of the project, the selection process, and the availability of materials. There are some clients who are very decisive and move through the process quickly, and there are others who need more time to contemplate, and consequently move more slowly through the process.

What else should I know before jumping in?

When you are undergoing a kitchen remodel, you can expect a considerable amount of disruption. A major functioning area of your home is undergoing surgery in a way, and you will need to plan accordingly. There will be inconvenience and dust (regardless of the tightest wrap), noise and traffic in your home. There will be high highs and low lows, but in the end you will have a beautiful, well-functioning hub of your home, and it will all be worth it.

Emily Custard is an interior designer working with Schmidt Homes Remodeling in Northfield, Minnesota. She is a member of the NKBA, has worked in the industry for seven years, and holds a bachelor’s degree in interior design from the Art Institute of Colorado. She is presenting at the Northfield Home & Garden Show April 6 on “How to get the most of your kitchen remodel, 10 things to know before you begin.�

Is Real Estate Springing Back?

Maybe it is finally time to move forward with your housing plans.

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Is the real estate market really on the rebound? REDOUX Editor Elizabeth Child wanted to find out how national trends were affecting our area and Paul Reiland of Edina Realty in Northfield shared his expertise.

Are real estate sales in our part of Minnesota picking up like they are in other parts of the country? Absolutely, in fact we are experiencing a housing shortage in many local areas, which is spurring residential construction.

Are there towns or even neighborhoods that are picking up more than others? Yes, real estate is always local but for the most part the further from the metro you are, the slower the market. Even in outside the metro, however, the market has improved dramatically.

If I’m selling, should I wait for the market to rebound even more since my home value took a dive in the last few years? In many cases it is advisable to wait but if you plan on buying you might see the house value of your “next� home go up. Buying now allows you to take advantage of interest rates as low as 3 percent and these rates are not expected to last into 2014.

What is the price point of homes that are selling best? The answer depends on location. Metro homes under 400K are moving very briskly and are in short supply. Homes under 350K in communities like Northfield are in demand.

Why might this be? The market tends to build from the ground (or lowest prices) up and clearly people with median incomes are driving the housing market in some communities, as well.

What is unique about today’s residential real estate market? It’s a re-building time for the housing market and our economy. Many experts agree that the housing market led our economy into the recession and now it is leading us out. We are currently about two years into a 10-year growth period in my opinion. It’s a great time to own real estate but we must learn from our past mistakes. I’m confident that we have.

Is there good housing stock on the market now, or should buyers be patient and wait for more good housing to come on the market? Generally, the longer buyers wait the fewer choices they will have and the higher the price and possibly interest rates, so this is the best time to buy. A shortage of housing is prompting new construction. Builders will be much busier this year.

What are some good tips for selling a home now? The first rule of thumb to get the most for your home is “location, location, location,” but if you already own your home you can’t change your location. The second rule of real estate is “condition, condition, condition.” Buyers these days will pay very good prices for homes that are in good repair, updated and staged to sell.

Paul Reiland can be reached at 507-645-1188 or reilandteam@edinarealty.com.

Let Your Dharma Bloom!

Yoga teaches that you are born with the seeds of a dharma—or purpose—unique

to yourself. Uncovering and then letting your dharma flourish gives your life meaning. The rewards are calming, challenging and inspiring.

Join seasoned yoga instructors Kristina Ahern and Elizabeth Child for a four-part yoga workshop, based on the book: The Great Work of Your Life, by Stephen Cope.

SUNDAYS, 1-4:30pm, at BLUEWATER YOGA STUDIO, 323 ½ Main Street, Red Wing SESSIONS: April 28: May 12: June 2: June 16:

Look to your dharma. Discern, name and embrace your own dharma.

Do it full out! Know your dharma, do it with every fiber of your being.

Let go of the outcome and the fruits of your actions.

Turn your actions over to a higher power and walk in connection with your true nature.

$59/session or $230 for all four.

Early bird discount $49/session or $190 for all four sessions (Register before April 6th or simply mention REDOUX for a discount).

Sessions may be taken individually but all four are recommended for the optimal experience.

(No yoga experience is necessary.)

To register: ahernkristina@gmail.com / 952 261-5178 elizchild@gmail.com / 507-645-0119

bazaar STRUCTURAL INTEGRATION Rolfing & Yin Yoga The Rolf method of structural integration helps you find stability and alignment to increase flexibility, decrease pain and create a sense of peace.

SHEPHERD’S WAY FARMS PINNACLE PERFORMING ARTS INSPIRING. DYNAMIC. INCLUSIVE. FUN. At Pinnacle Performing Arts, we strive to help each child reach the peak of their potential. Our professional instructors know how to encourage performers and bring out the star in every student. At Pinnacle, every day is an adventure - and it’s all about the climb!

CHECK OUT OUR NEW DANCE / THEATER / PERFORMANCE / COMBO CLASSES! NOW REGISTERING SUMMER S.L.A.M. PinnaclePerformingArtsCenter.com • 507.301.3337

GUITAR LESSONS (are fun!)

Beginners to pros. Basics, improvisation and theory.

Peter Diggins 35 years pro experience.

507.301.9710 flyingpan@me.com myspace.com/peterdiggins

LINDA DAY CLAY

Handmade functional pottery.

Custom clay pieces for all occasions.

Linda Day Clay Arkansaw, WI daydunlp@nelson-tel.net Tel: 715.285.5692 www.lindadayclay.com

Minnesota Artisan Sheep Cheese Shepherd’s Way Farms, a local family-based sheep dairy, produces award-winning artisan cheeses on the farm, just outside Northfield. Find Shepherd’s Way cheeses at Just Food Co-op in Northfield, or other local coops, specialty cheese shops, or Byerly’s, Lunds & Kowalski’s. shepherdswayfarms.com 507.663.9040

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS OR SERVICE IN THIS SPACE FOR AS LITTLE AS $42 / MONTH! Let us help get your message out. Visit redouxhome.com for more information, and click the ‘advertise’ link.

507.301.9710 Or email: info@redouxhome.com

Call for individual sessions in: • Structural Integration (Rolfing) • Yin yoga Daniel Martin Certified Guild for Structural Integration practitioner and yoga instructor Northfield Buddhist Center 313 ½ Division St., Northfield 507.664.9418

EXPERIENCE GETS RESULTS Reiland Team Paul & Juliette Reiland and Erik Severson 952-292-5999 reilandteam.edinarealty.com

President’s Circle 2010, 2011 and 2012

Weddings & Events: A Beautiful Setting Welcome to THE GARDENS of Castle Rock THE GARDENS, a Minnesota Wedding & Event Center, provides a beautiful setting for outdoor weddings, receptions & special events. Located at Switzer’s Nursery & Landscaping in amongst the beautiful display gardens and landscaping. Call today for availablity: 651-264-9510

651-264-9510

info@thegardensofcastlerock.com

THE GARDENS of Castle Rock

scan to vist THE GARDENS website THE GARDENS of Castle Rock 26601 Chippendale Ave, Northfield, MN 55057