by Katie Tomsche | Jan 1, 2026 | Noteworthy, Recipes, Weddings
Who says cake can only make an appearance at the wedding reception? Fresh lemon and almond extract marry to create this heavenly Lemon-Almond Ricotta Cake, which is rich and amazingly light. With simplicity and beauty, it’s perfect to serve at an engagement party or...
by Zoe Yates | Jan 1, 2026 | Weddings
The historic mansion provides a serene setting for one couple’s June nuptials. Leading up to Landon and Samantha (née Maul) Hoppe’s June wedding, the forecast called for a 99 percent chance of rain—and rain it did. As the pair exchanged vows at Gloria Dei Lutheran...
by Emily Gedde | Jan 1, 2026 | Entertain, Weddings
Vow renewal ceremonies celebrate couples growing together. When Debby and Jim Dalfanso decided to renew their wedding vows for a milestone anniversary, the couple wanted someone they felt comfortable with and trusted to reunite them in love after two decades of...
by Amelia Reigstad | Jan 1, 2026 | Education
The tone we use within our conversations is like a superpower—one that we can use in positive or negative ways. Did you know tone of voice is the leading cause of miscommunication? Research tells us that 10 percent of conflict is due to a difference in opinion and 90...
by Hailey Almsted and Zoe Yates | Jan 1, 2026 | Drinks, Entertain, Weddings
The vows are exchanged, the kiss has sealed the marriage—and now it’s time to celebrate in style. Add a memorable touch to your cocktail hour and reception with a mobile bar that brings charm to the big day. Whether it’s a vintage camper or a chic tap trailer, these...
by Zoe Yates | Jan 1, 2026 | Noteworthy, Weddings
White Bear Township residents and small business owners Nick and Staci Andro will celebrate their 10th wedding anniversary this autumn. The couple tied the knot at a family cabin in Bemidji on October 8, 2016, surrounded by an array of locally grown flowers and...
by Zoe Yates | Jan 1, 2026 | Style, Weddings
Modern weddings bring heirlooms and heritage into focus. There’s a growing trend in the wedding industry—and it’s greater than basque waists and Espresso Martinis. Modern couples are exploring meaningful ways to incorporate their family and heritage into their wedding...
by Zoe Yates | Nov 1, 2025 | Uncategorized
As time passes, it’s beautiful to recognize the moments that become memories. I think it’s one of the most brilliant parts of aging, collecting core memories and recalling them with friends and loved ones. As we put together this issue—in which music is very much a...
by Zoe Yates | Nov 1, 2025 | Giving Back, Local Makers, Noteworthy
At White Bear Lake United Methodist Church, a community bread oven is a cornerstone of a mission to care. The traditional brick oven was built by members of the church in 2010 after former pastor Bryce Johnson attended a bread school during a sabbatical in Tuscany. In...
by Jennifer Pitterle | Nov 1, 2025 | Local Makers
When the holiday season kicks into high gear, the heat is on—especially in the kitchen. Meal preparation can feel like it’s on a never-ending rotation. Cooking food for a celebration here or there is manageable, but when faced with the deluge of other holiday...
by Zoe Yates | Nov 1, 2025 | Photo Contest
Mahtomedi resident David Marsh took up photography as a hobby a decade ago. Marsh says his interest in capturing wildlife and landscapes “gives me something to do” in retirement. This award-winning image, taken in Marsh’s backyard, showcases the moment autumn gives...
by Zoe Yates | Nov 1, 2025 | Local Makers, Recipes
The Kowalski’s Markets team shares one of their favorite holiday recipes. Prime Rib Roast This recipe comes from Joe Crow, meat and seafood director at Kowalski’s Markets. prime all-natural rib roast balsamic vinegar Kowalski’s Garlic & Herb rub Coat the prime rib...
by Kia White | Nov 1, 2025 | Book Club, Noteworthy
While you may know Stanley Tucci from his work on screen, he is just as passionate about food as he is acting. His 2024 memoir, What I Ate in One Year: (And Related Thoughts), is exactly what I want to see from someone who spends a lot of their time thinking about...
by Amelia Reigstad | Nov 1, 2025 | Entertain, Noteworthy
The holidays are a time for togetherness, giving back and enjoying family time, but sometimes drama and miscommunication can arise. Navigating family dynamics and ensuring effective communication is key to a fun-filled (and hopefully stress-free) holiday season. Here...
by Zoe Yates | Nov 1, 2025 | Arts, Education, Giving Back
At McNeely Music Center, Manitou Fund creates a future-forward teaching space to connect the East Metro. White Bear Lake’s flourishing arts district has a new addition. Three years after breaking ground, the McNeely Music Center opened its doors for music lessons and...
