Hybrid Cars - HERLIFE Magazine

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HERLIFE MAGAZINE JUNE 2012 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 

KEEPING WOMEN CONNECTED 

Stranger Danger 

concepts to keep kids safe 

Hybrid Cars 

pros and cons of eco vehicles 

Lawn Care 

grooming tips for 

your yard 

Julie Gilbert 

Newrai 

MINNEAPOLIS-BASED 

ENTREPRENEUR LEADS THE PACK 

BY MAKING YOUR IDEAS A REALITY

2 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM

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content 

herlife | june 2012 

18 

welcome 6 

Favorites 10 

health 12 

spotlight 14 

beauty 16 

inspirations 18 

culinary 22 

Julie Gilbert Newrai: Leader of the Pack 

Imagine that you’re someone who not only envisions, but hears, opportunities in the not-so-far distance. Julie 

Gilbert Newrai describes how she’s developed and launched many successful businesses by listening to her 

natural instincts. 

42 

recipes 24 

Wine 26 

trendsetter 28 

mother’s perspective 34 

fine things 36 

spotlight 38 

16 

2012 beauty trends 

Like fashion, beauty trends have a definite ebb and 

flow. New York Fashion Week, which takes place in 

the spring and fall each year, is a showcase for the 

latest trends in beauty as well as clothing, shoes and 

accessories. In this year’s spring runway shows, hair 

and makeup covered the spectrum from minimal 

and natural to edgy and extreme. Despite the wide 

variety of looks, some clear trends emerged. 

42 

basic lawn care tips 

The children had a lovely time playing in the garden,” 

my British friends will say. Of course, my mind 

immediately conjures up pictures of children frolicking 

between rows of cabbage, corn and tomatoes. In 

reality, they are talking about the expanse of green turf 

which surrounds their home, what we refer to as our 

lawn or the front or backyard of our home. The terms 

are different, but the meanings are the same. 

finance 40 

Home 42 

tie the knot 44 

pets 46 

in the city 48 

Scene and be seen 50 


TWELVE 

in 

TWELVE 

A brand new song, every month, for a year. 

Download this month’s free single at www.alexmastersmusic.com

herlife | welcome 

Inspired Voice 

photo by michelle lockwood 

It’s hard to believe this is our 12th issue! It’s been a wild and crazy 

year, and as we head toward our birthday, I think back to the last 

twelve months, all the time and support given by our staff and 

friends, and the great appreciation we have for you–the readers–who 

have welcomed us! We’ve so much enjoyed sharing our favorites, passing 

along insights and ideas from finance to fashion, and shouting out 

inspirational stories about many wonderful local women! 

Sorry for “shouting,” but reading our June Cover Girl’s story has 

reminded me of the power of lifting up one’s voice and the gift of truly 

hearing the voice of another. Julie Gilbert Newrai seeks out, and listens 

to, the power of voices—and it’s changing the way companies do business. 

Julie engages people who have crucial insights to share, which is 

such a rewarding concept! 

Consider something as simple as a woman who found out I’m 

getting married and excitedly sharing her thoughts on her own experiences, 

speaking about the people who made her special day possible, 

and offering invaluable nuggets of advice she picked up along the way. 

Those experiences, recommendations and ideas are greatly appreciated, 

and so very helpful in navigating what’s to come over the next 

months and years for us. 

Speaking of sharing, the HERLIFE team fittingly decided to offer 

some of our favorite quotes for the Staff Picks this month. Whether 

it’s one you’ve heard a thousand times over, or one you’ve never heard 

before, what a benefit to us all that someone was there to engage these 

great thinkers and capture their insightful words. 

So, as we ring in our 12th issue, here’s to your powerful voices, 

the benefit of a good listen and reading all about it! 

read 

share 

recycle 

Lindsey Lee 

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® 

Staff and Contacts 

Editor-In-Chief 

Lindsey Lee 

llee@herlifemagazine.com 

952-210-1549 

Account Executives 

Jan Ehrlich 

jan@herlifemagazine.com 

612-207-8479 

Natalie Powers 

natalie@herlifemagazine.com 

612-799-1804 

Chelsea Streich 

chelsea@herlifemagazine.com 

612-205-5688 

Associate Account Executive 

Michelle Lockwood 

mlockwood@herlifemagazine.com 

952-491-0599 

Editor 

Candi Smith 

candi@herlifemagazine.com 

Creative Director 

Casey Jones 

casey@herlifemagazine.com 

Design and Production 

Todd Grantham 

todd@herlifemagazine.com 

Art Director 

Elana Bell 

elana@herlifemagazine.com 

Intern 

Alexandra Brandt-Barnard 

Contributing Authors 

Chandra Blackwell, Ann E. Butenas, Kristen Doyle, SeÁnan Forbes, 

Carl Johnston, Kathleen M. Krueger, Heather Noble, 

Elizabeth Rosenberger, Candi Smith, Catie Watson, Laura Wynn 

Contributing Photographers 

Spencer Combs, Kristen Doyle, Eliesa Johnson, 

Juxtaphotos, Michelle Lockwood, Tricia Riggin 

To contact HERLIFE® Magazine: 

7455 France Avenue South #405 

Edina, MN 55435 

Phone: / Fax: 1-866-827-6851 

For Advertising call 952-210-1549 

HERLIFE ® Magazine of Twin Cities is operated locally by LBL Publishing, an independently 

owned and operated franchisee of HERLIFE ® Magazine, LLC. To reach national 

headquarters, call 913-402-6994. 

© 2012 by HERLIFE ® Magazine. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may 

be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing. 

HERLIFE ® Magazine is owned by LBL Publishing and is a free publication distributed 

locally and is supported by our advertisers. It is available in selected specialty stores, doctor 

and dental offices, medical spas, hair and nail salons, tanning salons, public libraries and 

numerous other high traffic locations. Please call for a location near you or if you would like 

copies placed at your business. 

We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, 

nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised. We welcome your ideas, 

articles and feedback. 

SUBSCRIPTIONS 

Subscriptions are available for $20 (for 12 issues). Please go to www.herlifemagazine.com or mail 

a check made out to HERLIFE ® Magazine to the above address. 


What facial 

Q. sunscreens do you 

recommend to protect 

my skin this summer? 

A. under the eyes, from the damaging rays of the sun. Based upon my 

It’s important to protect specific areas of the face, like lips and 

research, experience, and customer reviews, the best sunscreen products are: 

Aveeno Continuous Protection Sunblock 

Lotion ranging from SPF 30 – 100 ($6.99 +) 

Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Moisturizer SPF 15 ($21 - $50) 

Lancome Bienfait Multi-Vital Eye with SPF 28 ($39) 

Supergoop! Sunscreen Swipe SPF 30 ($34 for 21-pack) 

Shiseido Sun Protection Lip Treatment SPF 36 ($20) 

Peter Thomas Roth Instant Mineral SPF 45 ($30) 

Julie Swenson is a hairstylist, 

makeup artist and educator and 

is the Founder of Beauty PhD. For 

more information about facial 

sunscreens or to attend makeup 

classes at Julie’s Academy visit 

www.mybeautyphd.com. 


herlife | favorites 

Staff Picks 

Quotes are great for so many reasons. From the great minds who first spoke the famous words, we are able to draw inspiration, motivation 

and even, at times, laughter. Sharing quotes is a great way to connect and gain new perspectives on life. Below are some of our favorite quotes, 

and we urge you to share your favorite quotes on our Facebook page. We will be reading… 

Lindsey’s Favorite... 

alex’s favorite... 

“You miss 100 percent of the shots you don’t take.” 

“The hardest arithmetic to master is that which 

enables us to count our blessings.” 

- Wayne Gretzky 

- Eric Hoffer 

candi’s favorite... 

Chelsea’s favorite... 

“To say that your fate is not linked to my fate is like saying only 

your end of the boat is sinking.” 

“You can never be overdressed or overeducated.” 

- Hugh Downs 

- Oscar Wilde 

Natalie’s favorite... 

Jan’s favorite... 

“Real joy comes not from ease or riches or from the praise of 

others, but from doing something worthwhile.” 

- Sir Wilfred 

Grenfell 

“A friend is someone who knows the song in your 

heart, and can sing it back to you when you have 

forgotten the words.” 

- Donna Roberts 


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Visit us at 715 Mainstreet in Hopkins! 

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herlife | health 

Barefoot Running 

vs. 

Running with Shoes 

by chandra blackwell 

Maybe you were on a family vacation, visiting your 

grandparents, or just spending an ordinary summer 

evening in your own backyard, playing tag with your 

cousin. But chances are you have at least one memory of that lighterthan-air 

sense of freedom that accompanies childhood. And I bet in 

that memory your shoes are off, kicked aside and long forgotten, and 

you’re running like the wind. 

Humans are evolved to run. We have tall bodies with ample 

surface area to cool ourselves, gluteal muscles for stabilization in 

running and long legs with Achilles tendons that allow us to release 

mechanical energy. These features once allowed our distant ancestors 

to track and hunt sprinting animals. While most carnivores among us 

today get their meat from the local grocery store, we’re still built for 

running. In fact, some running enthusiasts maintain we’re built to 

run as we often did back in childhood—footloose and shoe-free. 

Barefoot running is not a new concept. Ethiopia’s Abebe Bikila 

won the gold medal in the 1960 Olympics–sans shoes–by finishing 

with a record time of 2:15:17. The Tarahumara of northwestern 

Mexico are renowned for their ability to run distances over 100 

miles at a time, either with no shoes or wearing thin-soled huarache 

sandals. However, despite both historical and personal childhood 

precedent, the idea of trucking down the street in bare feet (for 

reasons other than chasing an escaping dog) may seem bizarre to 

many of us. 

shoes, your body loses a great deal of input and ‘switches off,’ so to 

speak, decreasing your reaction time. In addition, barefoot runners 

tend to strike on the forefoot with each footfall, while shod runners 

often strike on the heel, which can increase the risk of repetitive 

stress injury. 

In addition, the extra weight of shoes on your feet decreases 

your running economy. Two ten-ounce shoes can make you up 

to five percent less efficient, which is a big deal if you’re running 

competitively. 

Why Lace Up? 

Despite barefoot runners’ claims that going shoeless decreases 

the risk of injury, many podiatrists think it’s dangerous. Barefoot 

runners risk injuries to their feet from twigs, glass, pebbles, nails— 

basically anything that’s in the road. In addition, running barefoot 

on certain soft surfaces can increase plantar fascia and Achilles 

tendon problems. 

Running shoes, in addition to protecting your soles from 

splinter invasion, are engineered to support feet for traversing 

rough asphalt and rocky terrain. They provide padding and, shoe 

companies claim, help correct problematic twists and turns of the 

ankles and legs caused by excessive pronation. 

Many podiatrists, physical therapists and coaches agree that 

nowadays humans spend too much time in shoes, which weakens 

many of the foot and leg structures. To combat our shoe evolution, 

they recommend walking barefoot around the house, doing simple 

foot strengthening exercises or even running a few barefoot miles 

Why Go Barefoot? 

Proponents of barefoot running say that when you run barefoot, 

your whole body gets in on the game, engaging your vision, your 

brain, the soles of your feet and all the muscles, bones, tendons and 

supporting structures of your feet and legs. Many barefoot runners 

say that the best part is the stimulation that comes with being more 

interactively involved in the running. Rather than robotically 

planting one foot in front of the other, they say you can feel each step 

each foot makes. 

On the other hand, when your feet are shod in socks and 


a week on safe, secure surfaces—and then donning shoes before 

hitting the pavement. 

Avoiding Injuries 

If you’re going to try barefoot running, remember the lesson 

of the Tortoise and the Hare: slow and steady wins the race. Simply 

kicking off your shoes and sprinting out the door is not going to do 

you any favors unless you make an effort to change your running 

form—a process that could take several months. Newbie barefoot 

runners often experience Achilles tendon strains, calf muscle 

injuries and plantar fasciitis when the shoes first come off. Because 

of the shoes we wear, most of us have decreased range of motion in 

our ankles, shortened Achilles tendons, and weaker ankle and foot 

muscles than our prey-chasing ancestors. So if you’ve been wearing 

elevated heels (which include most running shoes as well as Jimmy 

Choos) for most of your life, you’ll be at increased risk for injury 

when the shoes come off. 

Overall, the key to barefoot running–like any new workout–is to 

listen to your body. It’s always a good thing to challenge yourself, but 

make sure to stay tuned in to what your body is telling you it needs— 

whether it’s a different running surface, a slower pace or an afternoon 

propped up in a hammock, dreaming of childhood summers. ■ 

Sources for this article are runnersworld.com, 

popularmechanics.com, beaumontenterprise.com and runningnut.com. 


herlife | spotlight 

Eliesa 

Johnson 

Photography 

by ann e. butenas | photography liz hardt 

Professional and award-winning photographer Eliesa Johnson 

knows just how to capture those special moments in life. As 

the owner of four photography businesses, her dedication 

and commitment to excellence within her craft does not go unnoticed. 

This hard-working businesswoman oversees these operations: 

Photogen, Inc., a luxury destination wedding photography business; 

Eliesa Johnson Photography, which focuses on commercial and 

editorial work; Rivets and Roses, a wedding photography studio that 

caters to the Minneapolis market; and, LOVEe Consults, which is a 

consulting company for photographers. 

Although she has been honing her skills and perfecting her 

brands for 12 years, Eliesa’s passion for this art reared its enthusiastic 

head when she was still a kid growing up on Owatonna, Minnesota. 

“I used to ride my bike around the neighborhood with a disposable 

camera,” she recalled. “I would take pictures of anything and everything, 

and then run up to the store to get them developed. I loved it.” 

It was not until she was in high school that her gift for capturing 

a world behind the lens really made its presence known. “I had 

an amazing photography teacher then,” she smiled. “He was very 

influential in that he did not just teach textbook photography. He 

encouraged us to go out and take pictures. He told us it was okay to 

make mistakes. He encouraged the element of play in our photos. He 

was such a wonderful inspiration and guide to me.” 

With her passion fully engaged, Eliesa studied photography at a 

fine arts college in Minnesota, and after graduating embarked on what 

she thought would be a lifetime career in freelance photography work. 

“I began going after editorial work initially, and after a while people 

began to ask me if I would photograph their weddings,” she said. “I had 

never thought about being a wedding photographer, but I decided to 

try it, and as it turns out I love doing this type of work.” 

As one who has a seasoned career in the commercial end of photography, 

Eliesa explains the inherent difference between such work 

and wedding shoots. “While the commercial end seems glamorous, 

those jobs are completed and soon forgotten as you move on to the 

next assignment,” she explained. 

“With wedding photography, there is that element of ‘forever.’ 

These are photos to which people will return time and time again.” 

With that perception in mind, Eliesa and her staff of ten talented 

individuals approach weddings with total compassion and care. “We 

are dedicated to creating images that are inspiring and have signifi- 


cant meaning to the client,” said Eliesa. 

Even as today’s world continually progresses into the rapidly 

advancing technological age of digital capabilities and instant feedback, 

when it comes to photography, Eliesa agrees that there is still 

something to be said about the old school world of film. 

“I am a huge fan of film, actually,” she admitted. “When you 

have the digital capabilities, you somewhat lose that extra creative 

“With wedding photography, there is 

that element of ‘forever.’ These are 

photos to which people will return 

time and time again.” 

edge. It is often through those imperfect results that the most beautiful 

images are created. With the digital component, the results are 

immediate and can cause one to judge his or her abilities too quickly. 

While digital is definitely good as a learning tool in that you can address 

what needs to be changed immediately, it does tend to dampen 

the creative process.” 

For Eliesa, photography is her lifestyle, whether on the job or 

not. A quick peek into her camera arsenal will reveal four digital 

ones, an old Canon model from the Vietnam War era, a Mamiya medium 

format 645e all-manual camera, a couple of the Yashica brand 

point and shoots from the 90s, and the Fuji Instax which is an instant 

camera reminiscent of a Polaroid. “They are my toys,” she laughed. 

What Eliesa embraces most about her career is the creative 

outlet it affords her and the element of surprise, as she never knows 

what’s going to develop (pun intended). “I always knew I would be 

in the photography business. I just never realized how passionate I 

would be about it all,” she smiled. “I not only love the work but I 

really enjoy helping others, teaching them and inspiring them. We 

mentor others to encourage them to pursue their dreams in the field 

of photography.” 

Whoever once said that being a photographer is not a real job 

was right. It’s not. It’s a passion, a commitment, a talent and a genuine 

adventure, with no two days alike. It’s amazing how a few points, 

clicks and shoots can impact lives, and turn ordinary moments into 

extraordinary memories. 

As for a quick snapshot into the future, Eliesa is a work in progress, 

always fueling that ambitious momentum and moving her brand 

forward. “I keep an open mind about the possibilities,” she stated. “I 

believe in allowing things to happen organically, finding solutions to 

new ideas and exploring the options. For me, it’s all about the ride, 

and this one is amazing.” ■ 

For more information, check out Eliesa’s websites at photogen-inc.com, 

eliesajohnson.com and rivetsandroses.com, or call 651-494-2557. 


herlife | beauty 

2012 

Beauty Trends 

by catie watson 

L 

ike fashion, beauty trends have a definite ebb and flow. New 

York Fashion Week, which takes place in the spring and fall 

each year, is a showcase for the latest trends in beauty as well 

as clothing, shoes and accessories. In this year’s spring runway shows, 

hair and makeup covered the spectrum from minimal and natural to 

edgy and extreme. Despite the wide variety of looks, some clear trends 

emerged. 

The best hairstyles for 2012 reflect classic American glamour as 

well as the outdoor life. Flowing hair with a natural look is definitely 

the top hairstyle for the year. The runway shows for Calvin Klein, 

Givenchy and Band of Outsiders featured models with straight and 

slightly wavy hair, while Oscar de la Renta favored models with frizzy 

and crimped locks. Whether straight or curly, the trendiest way to wear 

long hair is with a center part that’s a throwback to the 1970s. 

The wet hair look, which is simulated with gel, was one of the 

most popular new styles for hair at Fashion Week. This look includes 

both short and long hair worn slicked back from the forehead and 

tucked behind the ears. Models for Ralph Lauren, BCBG, Alexander 

Wang, Victoria Beckham and other designers looked as if they had just 

climbed out of a swimming pool before hitting the runway. 

Ponytails are another important hairstyle this year. The newest 

ponytail styles include a retro side ponytail, shown by designer Erin 

Fetherstone with a teased crown, as well as a low, loose ponytail that 

was shown by Reed Krakoff and several other designers. Gwyneth Paltrow 

demonstrated the simple glamour of this style at the 2012 Academy 

Awards. The “messy bun,” a popular look in 2011, will continue 

to be popular this year. The hair is twisted and pinned at the nape of 

the neck with little concern for perfection. Yves Saint Laurent, Chanel 

and Jason Wu featured messy chignons secured with decorative hair 

clips and dressed up with feathers and pearls. 

The top makeup looks for 2012 are divided between retro and 

natural. Thicker eyebrows with a natural shape are one of the big 

retro trends this year (think 1980s Brooke Shields or 1960s Elizabeth 

Taylor). Brows can be filled in and enhanced with an eyebrow pencil 

and then brushed up to create a dramatic arch. Lily Collins, who plays 

Snow White in this year’s Mirror Mirror, embodies the trend for long 

loose hair and bold eyebrows. 

One of the newest natural makeup trends for 2012 is the sunkissed 

complexion. Michael Kors, MaxMara and other designers 

featured models that appeared to have spent a day in the sun thanks 

to a dusting of bronzer on the cheekbones, forehead and bridge of 

the nose. Foundation that creates a healthy glow enhances the sporty 

outdoor look. Nude lip gloss and simple eye makeup complete this 

natural face. 

A big makeup trend that’s continuing from 2011 is retro red 

lipstick. Bright lips in matte colors ranging from crimson to orange 

to chocolate were featured by several designers at New York Fashion 

Week, including Christian Dior, Donna Karan and Jason Wu. To place 

even more emphasis on the lips, eye makeup is kept to a minimum. 

If bold lipstick isn’t your style, an alternative lip trend for 2012 is soft 


osebud lips in a barely-there shade of pink. 

Cat eyes are another retro trend this year, with either shadow or 

eyeliner used to create an up-tick at the outside corner of the eye. A 

new variation is double lines on the upper eyes as shown by Giorgio 

Armani. Smoky eyes are a continuing trend, but this year they are even 

more extreme with a heavier application of liner and shadow above and 

below the eyes. For a bold new look for a special night out, deep blue 

and purple shadow can be applied both above and below the eye. This 

look was referred to as starry-night eyes by Rodarte. 

Another makeup trend seen on models for Ralph Lauren, Phillip 

Lim and Chanel is silver metallic shadow applied to the eyelids and 

inner corners of the eye for an incandescent effect. Artificial lashes 

that call attention to themselves with turned-up tips or in bright colors 

like fuchsia are an increasingly popular designer trend (though for 

most women not practical for anything other than special occasions). 

Givenchy, Chanel and other designers also used three-dimensional 

embellishments like pearls and sequins as eye makeup. 

The overall beauty message for 2012 is to create your own unique 

look that suits your individual style by combining retro and modern elements. 

Whether you favor the classic elegance of a ponytail, the trendy 

wet hair look, the minimal appeal of bronzer or dramatic eyes and lips, 

beauty this year is all about mixing the old and the new. ■ 

Sources for this article are MarieClaire.com and 

HarpersBazaar.com. 


herlife | inspirations 

Julie Gilbert Newrai 

Leader of the Pack 

by ann e. butenas 

photography by eliesa johnson 

hair by breanna sturgeleski of simonson’s salon & spa 

make-up by christine turner of simonson’s salon & spa 

One thing that’s clear the moment you speak with Julie 

Gilbert Newrai is her exuberance for possibility and her 

drive to transform possibilities into realities. To her, the 

single best way to do that is to inspire others to believe in themselves 

and help them get their voices heard. If you have met her or heard her 

speak, you will, like so many others, recall how she engaged your eyes, 

how she made you feel, and what life changes you made as a result of 

the newfound inspiration. 

“Growth in business comes directly from people, and it is how 

you treat and inspire people that determines massive business growth. 

All people can feel authenticity and values,” she expressed. This 

visionary, serial entrepreneur and powerful motivational speaker 

wakes up each day with a goal of hopefully engaging and inspiring 

one more person. 

When Julie established her phenomenal global business endeavor 

WOLF Means Business nine years ago, she embarked on a remarkable 

journey of imaginative thinking, creative planning, insightful ideas 

and unbridled determination. By combining these components, Julie 

created a company that is the vehicle for inspired innovation through 

which an organization’s top and bottom lines can recognize unparalleled 

growth. 

“Through the WOLF business model, we essentially reinvent 

companies for growth by authentically engaging the people right in 

front of them…the employees and customers that are just waiting for 

someone to ask them to speak up,” noted Julie, whose own story of success 

started with humble beginnings. Although she is one who focuses 

less on past accomplishments and more on the potential she has yet to 

fulfill, her own personal journey is just as impressive as the opportunities 

for growth she provides companies worldwide. 

Growing up in a small town in South Dakota, Julie was on an 

ambitious path that took her to Minneapolis. She graduated from the 

University of Minnesota with her degree in Accounting. She started 

working at the financial firm Deloitte and immediately went back to 

the University at night to take coursework towards a Master’s in Taxation. 

Having earned her CPA and success in building new business 

offerings at Deloitte, she switched gears and subsequently earned her 

MBA degree. 

After spending nine years with Deloitte, she took her proven 

business creation skills to Best Buy. “My first project was taking digital 

cable into retail—something never before tested or tried. I participated 

in the acquisition of Geek Squad. Next, I was asked to create an offering 

for teens and their cell phones, a vision that soon became Virgin 

Mobile, scaling the United States,” she said. 

In 2004, in an effort to attract high-end male customers to Best 

Buy, Julie and her team created a successful new business for Best Buy 

called Magnolia Home Theatre, still the world’s largest home theatre 

company, earning Best Buy over $3 billion in sales in its first 2 ½ years. 

Simultaneously, she was bestowed with the rather illustrious title of 

Vice President of High-End Male Consumer Business Group, and 

literally crossed the country interviewing those males (at one count— 

nine million!) and their wives to discover the motivations behind their 

spending habits. 

“I literally went door-to-door and began interviewing these men, 

and soon realized it was their wives or women in their lives who were 

jumping across the coffee table to answer my questions with what 

currently was missing and the exact solutions,” said Julie. She continued 

that it was during these one-on-one dialogues when she began to 

understand that the opinions of the women, not the high-end men, 




actually influenced purchasing decisions. Why were these voices not 

being heard? How could they change the landscape of the business? 

Why wasn’t Best Buy listening to these women? 

One night during this time, Julie had a dream that took her back 

to her childhood when she would lie awake at night and listen to the 

howls of the wolves in the distance. Through this dream, the analogy 

was clear that those howls of the wolves were symbolic of the unheard 

voices of change at Best Buy, and she knew there had to be a way to 

create a platform to raise the volume of those voices and create a winning 

strategy for business growth. 

At the time, Best Buy could not hear those howls, and Julie set out 

to amplify them through the creation of WOLF Means Business, forming 

a slew of innovation teams called WOLF packs (consisting of customers 

and employees worldwide), and connecting them to the key decisionmakers 

in the company. Such innovative thinking and implementation 

quickly led to significant increases in revenue to the tune of more than 

Even though life during these 

past few years has proven to 

be an incredible ride for Julie, 

what remains first and foremost 

in her life is her family, which 

includes husband Sohrab and 

two-year-old son Arman. 

$4.4 billion in less than 5 years, positive brand transitions, traffic and 

operating profits in all affected areas. Additionally, WOLF increased 

the number of female general managers by 40 percent, increased the 

numbers of women inside the company by over 18 percent and decreased 

female turnover for the first time in the company’s 40-year history by 

more than 5 percent year-over-year, contributing $25 million directly to 

the bottom line. Financial profit grew and the culture did as well. 

In 2009, Julie realized it was time to grow her vision, which 

meant leaving Best Buy. Julie successfully negotiated exclusive rights 

to all WOLF intellectual property and launching WOLF to other U.S. 

and global organizations. WOLF Means Business now collaborates 

with companies in numerous industries, championing financial and 

cultural growth in over 53 countries. 

Among the high-profile businesses with which she has collaborated 

through WOLF are Major League Baseball, Nintendo, Motorola, 

Loblaws and others. WOLF’s powerful and collaborative approach to 

innovation doesn’t come with flashy marketing—it gains momentum 

through success stories from clients and influential participants. In fact, 

every WOLF client came from word-of-mouth conversations with very 

senior leadership, usually CEOs who realized the power of the female 

consumer and were determined to tap into it in an authentic way. 

“With Nintendo, we built female consumer teams to create the 

Wii,” said Julie, who noted that the Wii is recognized in the Guinness 

Book of World Records as the fastest-selling gaming device. “In 

2011, we partnered with Motorola, and won the Consumer Electronics 

Design of the Year Award for a wearable fitness device called the 

MOTOACTV.” 

Even though life during these past few years has proven to be an 

incredible ride for Julie, what remains first and foremost in her life is her 

family, which includes husband Sohrab and two-year-old son Arman. 

Arman was born in May 2010. But, life’s roller-coaster never 

seems to stop moving. Two months after Arman’s birth, Sohrab sustained 

a serious medical situation that nearly killed him. 

“He spent a month in ICU and basically had to re-learn how to 

function all over again,” recalled Julie. “I was just about ready to go 

back to work following Arman’s birth, but changed plans. Something 

like this truly shakes you to the core.” During this time, she held tightly 

to her Christian faith and focused full-time on taking care of Arman 

and Sohrab. 

Julie now had a new set of priorities and passions, but her drive to 

empower people and grow businesses still burned. The work she did 

fed her spirit. Sohrab was improving daily while living in a rehabilitation 

center, and she found great daycare for Arman. As with any working 

mom and dedicated wife, guilt inevitably set in and during her 

frenetic work days, her thoughts continually drifted to her family. “How 

were they doing? Was everything okay? I really should check in.” 

One day, after spending the entire morning in meetings with a 

nagging feeling of how both Arman and Sohrab were doing, she called 

both the daycare and rehabilitation centers to check in. She was put 

on hold, but both calls were dropped. Twice. Frustration and anger 

immediately set in and then she thought, “I am not the only one in the 

world going through this.” There had to be a better way. 

Putting those creative wheels in motion once again, Julie quickly 

put pen to paper and created her new company, PreciouStatus, a mobile 

application that sends updates directly and privately to loved ones 

from care facilities. 

Of course, Julie is now launching PreciouStatus in the healthcare 

arena and finding opportunities to mobilize consumer voices to make 

change happen. You can find the PreciouStatus platform launching 

in daycare centers, nursing homes and other facilities, where it has the 

potential to become yet another award-winning and game-changing 

business model. 

Now that Sohrab is back to his old self (“You’d never know 

anything happened to him,” said Julie), and Arman is growing by leaps 

and bounds, something tells us there is a grand vision as yet to be unveiled. 

Great ideas never sleep. Can you hear it? It sounds like wolves 

in the distance once again! ■ 

For more information on WOLF, go to wolfmeansbusiness.com. To 

learn more about PreciouStatus, visit them at precioustatus.com. Follow 

Julie on Facebook at facebook.com/julie.newrai. 


herlife | culinary 

Learning to Love 

Green, Leafy Vegetables 

by carl johnston 

I 

remember when I was about six years old, asking my mother, “What 

can I have to eat?” One day (probably out of pure exasperation), 

she did something that might get you arrested these days. She gave 

me a knife and a salt shaker, and said, “Eat anything you want in the 

garden.” And so my affair with vegetables began. I ate tomatoes and 

cucumbers, carrots and radishes, turnips and squash. I didn’t know 

children weren’t supposed to like vegetables. I was in heaven! 

As I’ve grown older, I see study after study about the benefits 

of vegetables, especially green, leafy vegetables. Now we know what 

our mothers did but couldn’t explain in a scientific manner. Mothers 

didn’t know about the nutrients and vitamins in those morsels. They 

just knew that they were good for us and we should eat them. Collard 

greens, turnip greens, Swiss chard, kale, arugula, cabbages and lettuces 

are packed full of Vitamins K and A, calcium and fiber. (The new 

buzzword seems to be “superfoods.”) All of the things essential to our 

overall well-being, which unfortunately are now sold relentlessly and 

endlessly to us in pill form, can be found in the garden. 

When our first child was on the way, I remember the 

doctor explaining to us the necessity of green, leafy 

vegetables in our diet, and how Vitamin K was essential to a pregnant 

and nursing mother. From that moment on, my wife craved greens… 

and sweet potatoes. Fortunately, I don’t think I ever visited my grandmother 

when there wasn’t a big pot of turnip greens (my favorite) and 

cornbread on the stove. So I knew how to cook greens, and it’s about 

all we ate for nine months. Luckily for my wife and child, we listened 

to the doctor. I’m sure all the greens were a benefit to both of them 

because my wife stayed healthy and active until our chubby, perfectly 

healthy little son was born. (With our second child, my wife only 

craved Skittles, but that’s another story altogether!) 

Nowadays, our diets are so full of salt and sugar because of the 

“prepared foods” we consume. As a chef for over 20 years, I understand 

that restaurants aren’t as concerned with the amounts of salt, 

sugar, cream and butter that go into the food they 

make—they only want you to like it. So what’s 

the answer? Scientists say the key is to cook 

more meals at home. They could have given 


It’s wise to include green, leafy 

vegetables in your daily diet. They 

can keep your heart healthy, deter 

the risks of certain types of cancers 

and improve your digestive system. 

my mother a lab coat and pocket protector, and she could have 

solved this puzzle years ago! 

It’s wise to include green, leafy vegetables in your daily diet. They 

can keep your heart healthy, deter the risks of certain types of cancers 

and improve your digestive system. Steamed broccoli, sautéed spinach, 

stir-fried bok choy and fried cabbage are all perfect accompaniments 

to almost any meal, and can easily be prepared in just a few minutes. If 

you are persistent in serving these “superfoods,” your family will soon 

find that they aren’t so bad, and will also find their favorites and begin 

to request them. (Or you can always just remind them of Popeye and 

what spinach did for him in his never-ending battles with Bluto and 

the pursuit of Olive Oyl.) Another nice way to serve these vegetables is 

to end your meal with a salad. Salads are light and fresh, and are easily 

consumed, even after a full meal. This is a more of a European-style way 

of serving a meal, and my French and Italian friends all have opinions 

about why (mainly because that’s the way their mother did it). But salad 

also aids in digestion, acts as a palate cleanser and allows hot foods to be 

served when they’re hot, saving cold foods for the end of the meal. I personally 

believe that there’s always room for salad—even if I have filled 

up on the main course. Give it a try and see what you think. 

So next time you are in the “dietary supplement” aisle in your 

grocery store, you might want to reconsider and instead head over the 

produce aisle to begin your own affair with green, leafy vegetables. ■ 

Source for article is buzzle.com 

Here’s a list of some excellent green, leafy 

vegetables and their nutritional benefits: 

bok choy –Vitamins A and C, and calcium 

collard greens – Vitamins E, A and C 

cabbage – Vitamin C, beta-carotene and folic acid 

lettuce – Vitamins A, K and C, folate, manganese and chromium 

chard – Vitamins K, A, B1, B2, B6, C and E, potassium, iron and fiber 

watercress – Vitamins A, B1, B5 and E, beta-carotene, iron, 

calcium and zinc 

spinach – Vitamins A, C, E and K, niacin, zinc, folate, calcium, iron, 

potassium, copper and manganese 

arugula – Vitamins A and C, and calcium 

leeks – Vitamins B6 and C, folate and iron 

endive – Vitamins A, C, K and E, magnesium and phosphorus 


herlife | recipes 

Asparagus Stir Fr y 

recipes and photography by kristen doyle 

Ingredients: 

3 Tablespoons reduced-sodium soy 

sauce 

3 Tablespoons fresh lemon juice 

1 teaspoon cornstarch 

1 pound boneless skinless chicken 

breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes 

1 Tablespoon canola oil 

2 garlic cloves, minced 

4 green onions, cut into 1-inch 

diagonal pieces 

1 bunch fresh asparagus 

Instructions: 

1. In a large bowl, stir together soy sauce, lemon juice and cornstarch. 

Add chicken pieces and coat well with the marinade. 

2. Heat oil in a large, non-stick skillet or wok, over medium heat. Add 

chicken, garlic, green onions and asparagus, and stir-fry for 8-10 minutes, 

until chicken is no longer pink. Serve over rice. ■ 

Spring Salad with Orange Vinaigrette 

Ingredients: 

Zest from 2 oranges 

½ cup orange juice 

2 Tablespoons balsamic vinegar 

2 Tablespoons honey 

¾ teaspoon Kosher salt 

¾ teaspoon freshly ground black 

pepper 

¾ cup extra-virgin olive oil 

10 ounces pre-washed spring mix salad 

¼ cup shredded Jarlsberg cheese 

¼ cup bacon pieces, cooked and 

crumbled 

1 cup walnuts 

Instructions: 

1. In a large bowl, combine orange zest, orange juice, balsamic vinegar, honey, 

Kosher salt, black pepper and extra-virgin olive oil. Whisk until well blended and 

smooth. 

2. Place spring mix, cheese and bacon pieces on each individual plate. Top with 

walnuts and blended orange vinaigrette dressing. ■ 



herlife | wine 

cava: 

B u b b ly, 

S pa r k l i n g 

& A f f o r d a b l e 

by seánan forbes | photography by ellen silverman 

When I first met Belinda Chang, she didn’t have a James 

Beard Foundation Award—but you didn’t have to be 

psychic to see one in her future. 

That part of the future is now past tense. Before she left New 

York City’s The Modern, where she headed the wine program, 

both Belinda and the restaurant had James Beard Award medals. 

An award-winning program at an award-winning restaurant–not too 

shabby–and there’s better yet to come. 

Bright, bubbly, sophisticated and knowledgeable, Belinda’s 

not one to rest on earned laurels. She’s now the general manager of 

Monkey Bar. And, yes, she’s in charge of the wine. 

“Bubbly” is the operative word in this column, because the 

last time I heard from Belinda, the subject was bubbles. More 

specifically, the topic was cava. To be even more precise, it was 

Raventós i Blanc Gran Reserva de la Finca 2006. Belinda sang lovely 

praises. “It’s a sexy, complex, vibrant, prestige-level Spanish bubbly 

without the prestige champagne pricing.” 

Where Belinda leads, any wine-lover does well to follow, and 

Raventós does not disappoint. Their wines are made from handharvested, 

estate-grown grapes. They produce nothing but vintage 

cavas—no blending across years. Respectful of the land that supports 

them, they practice organic viticulture. There’s pride in those bottles. 

There’s also tradition. When phylloxera struck the vineyards of 

Champagne back in the nineteenth century, Josep Raventós Fatjó 

produced the world’s first bottles of méthode champenoise sparkling 

Spanish wine. He used Xarel-lo grapes grown on the estate that had 

belonged to his family since 1497. In 1986, Josep María Raventós i 

Blanc and his son Manuel Raventós founded the Raventós i Blanc 

winery in the center of that estate. 

Cava has been around for a while. References to Catalonian 

sparkling wine go back to the 14th century. In the mid-19th century, the 

Spanish began to work on making wine with champagne’s characteristics. 

But cava is a statement not of quality, but of location. There are other 

Spanish sparkling wines. If you’re not sure what someone’s pouring for 

you, then ask to see the cork. Cavas are always stamped with the maker’s 

logo, and they have a four-pointed star on the base. 

Raventós i Blanc is cava at its prime. Frothy, bright and elegant, 

Raventós i Blanc is exquisitely balanced. There’s a buttery, creamy nose 

of toasted nuts, sweet fresh fruit, spring flowers and anise. In the mouth, 

there are honeysuckle, citrus, minerals, vanilla and spice. After its three 

years of aging, this is one complex wine which tastes like elegance. 

Sparkling wines have a “mousse.” The term refers to how fizzy the 


wine feels in your mouth. In cheap wines, the 

mousse is reminiscent of soft drinks like cola 

and ginger ale. Raventós i Blanc has a creamy 

mousse. It’s what you want in your mouth and 

in your wine. 

If your mind’s more on cocktails than 

straight wine, then cava is your friend. 

Plunk a ripe strawberry in a champagne 

flute, pour Raventós i Blanc over the top 

and you have summer in a glass. Use a sugar 

cube and a dash of artisanal bitters, and you 

have a classic cocktail to turn a meal into a 

celebration. 

Ready to surprise and delight your 

friends? Use cava to make sparkling sangria 

with fresh fruit—berries, pitted and halved 

cherries, and slices of nectarine or apricot. 

If you like citrus, add the zest of a lemon or 

lime. Like life sweet? Pour in a little mango 

nectar. Want a bit more bite? Pour in a shot 

of brandy or fruit liqueur. Put what’s fresh 

and fanciful in a pitcher, top it with chilled 

cava, give it a gentle stir and serve. 

Where food’s concerned, cava lets you 

be playful. One of the best things about 

sparkling wine is its amenability. If it were a 

child, then it would get high marks for “plays 

well with others.” 

Serve Raventós i Blanc with seared 

foie. Match it with oysters, seared scallops, 

sashimi, smoked salmon, quiche or fresh 

figs. Pair it with grilled or fried fish, Spanish 

cheeses or Serrano ham. Lay out a tapas 

buffet, and Raventós i Blanc will go with 

everything on the table. Cava’s a fine partner 

for fresh diver scallops, whether you simply 

sauté them or make Coquille St. Jacques. 

Raventós i Blanc isn’t just for after-hours 

occasions. Take it on a lunchtime picnic. 

Pour it alongside eggs and turn brunch into 

delightful decadence—but you don’t need 

food as a reason to serve this sparkler. At 

Monkey Bar, Belinda says, “We pour it by 

the glass from magnums!” 

Life’s full of reasons to celebrate. With 

Raventós i Blanc Gran Reserve de la Finca, 

sparkling is an affordable, elegant joy. ■ 

Sources for this article are 

monkeybarnewyork.com and raventos.com. 


herlife | trendsetter 

This Love 

Of Mine 

102 main street north 

stillwater, mn 55082 

thisloveofmine.com 

photography by spencer combs 

hair and makeup by julie swenson, beauty phd 

models frankie tibbetts, lisa tibbetts and ruth shafer 

styling by cheris murphy 







herlife | mother’s perspective 

Stranger 

Danger 

Teach Your Child 

Concepts to Keep 

Them Safe 

by elizabeth rosenberger 

A 

part of parenting is protecting your children and keeping 

them safe. You are their voice in this world and they look to 

you for stability, confidence and safety. But we can’t always 

be with our children, and to arm them with knowledge is the best 

gift a parent can give to add to their protection. Teaching them how 

to protect themselves when you’re not around will develop a healthy 

habit, not hysteria. 

In order to approach this with new insight, the National Center 

for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) suggests you throw 

out the concept of ‘Stranger Danger.’ On their website they explain, 

“For decades, children were taught to stay away from ‘strangers.’ But 

this concept is difficult for children to grasp, and often the perpetrator 

is someone the child knows. It is more beneficial to help build 

children’s confidence and teach them to respond to a potentially 

dangerous situation, rather than teaching them to look out for a 

particular type of person.” 

Although there is a lot of talk about tracking devices and supporting 

technology, the NCMEC does not recommend you use them. 

They stress that the best defense for your child and family is to teach 

your child how to stay safe. If a device is to be used, understand what 

it can and cannot do, that machines can fail, and that the tracking 

device should be, if they choose, an element within a complete safety 

program for their family. 

The NCMEC states that, based on extensive research across the 

nation, people known to children and/or their families actually present 

greater danger to children than do strangers. On their website, they 

offer a vast array of tips and topics to aid parents in this journey. Below 

are a few that HERLIFE would like to pass along. 

KNOWLEDGE IS POWER 

Explain to your children that you want to discuss safety rules with 

them so they will know what to do if they are ever confronted with a 

potentially dangerous situation. The first line of defense for families is 

safety education and line-of-sight supervision of their children. Choose 

‘teachable’ moments to reinforce safety skills, like utilizing an incident 

in your community if your child asks about it. Speak frankly but without 

fear and in terms they can understand for their age. 

THERE’S AN APP FOR THAT 

The FBI Child ID App is free and will help keep your information 

updated on your children. Created by the FBI, this app provides 

a convenient place to electronically store photos and vital information 

about your children so that it’s literally right at hand if you need it. 

You can show pictures and provide physical identifiers such as height 

and weight to security or police officers on the spot. Using a special 

tab on the app, you can also quickly and easily e-mail the information 

to authorities with a few clicks. The app also includes tips on keeping 

children safe as well as specific guidance on what to do in those first 

few crucial hours after a child goes missing. 

LOSE THE NAME TAGS 

Don’t put your child’s name on shirts, jackets, backpacks or 

belongings where a predator will easily find it. 

INTERNET AND PHONE SAFETY 

Teach your child that they should never give identifying information 

over the Internet or phone, or inform someone who calls that 

they’re home alone. Internet abuse has risen over the past decade 

and it’s vital you know with whom your children are communicating. 


SpectorSoft offers software that allows you to track and monitor your 

child’s Internet activity. 

SAFETY IN NUMBERS 

Tell your child to stick to places where people are out and about, 

and in places that are well-lit, especially if they feel threatened. They 

should learn to use a password should you ever change plans and need 

to unexpectedly send someone to get them. 

BE AN INVOLVED PARENT 

Volunteer in your child’s school and in the community so you 

will know who is there. Meet the people who live around you in the 

neighborhood, as well as the child’s friends and teachers so that you 

will have more insight if something is amiss. 

SAYING NO IS HEALTHY 

Teach your child that it’s okay to say NO to anyone who tries to 

do anything that makes them feel uncomfortable. They should never 

accept gifts, candy or toys from a person without getting a parent’s 

permission. Always make sure that your child knows they will not be 

punished for things that have made them uncomfortable. You don’t 

want them keeping a creepy encounter from you. ■ 

For more information about child safety, visit missingkids.com or 

apps.usa.gov/fbi-child-id. For information on child monitoring software, 

visit spectorsoft.com. 


herlife | fine things 

Becoming 

Art Savvy 

by heather noble 

If you’re interested in learning more about art, it may feel like a 

daunting task. However, you can become savvy through your 

own efforts and have a lot of fun in the process. Your education 

can begin locally and small-scale. Consider attending upcoming 

events in your community, including museum exhibits and gallery 

openings. These occasions are also a great opportunity to socialize, 

so invite a few good friends to attend as well. Upon arriving at the 

exhibit or event, embrace your “student” role by reading about the 

art pieces and asking for more information from those working at 

the exhibits. Gallery owners and museum docents are experienced 

and resourceful guides who can provide you facts on pieces of 

interest. Ask to know more about the artist, the time period when the 

piece was created, any other history associated with the piece and 

its appraised value. This is also an opportunity to learn more about 

art media, the specific substances used in a piece and the art motif, 

which is the thematic element in the artist’s work. If the artist is 

present, that’s even better. Express your genuine curiosity. Ask about 

the artist’s inspiration and what the creative process means to her or 

him, along with how the pieces were created. Make sure you have 

time to then survey the art and notice your own reactions. Are there 

particular pieces that you gravitate toward? Reflect upon why you do 

or do not like the art. Then chat with the friends who came with you. 

What are their opinions and why? At a later time, seek out the critics’ 

reviews. What were their opinions? It’s often helpful to consider 

others’ points of view, but you should continue to honor your own 

reactions as well. 

As you build your breadth of experience with local art, you 

might also want to enhance the depth of your knowledge by learning 

about different styles of art. It’s easy to do some research online 

or at the library. Perhaps you have a liking for surrealism, pop art, 

pointillism, folk art or constructivism. Pointillism is characterized 

by color applied in dots or small brush strokes, and the viewer 

must often stand at a distance to perceive forms. Folk art is a style 

created by artists who are considered self-taught, and their pieces 

usually reflect the artist’s traditional culture. Surrealism art tends 

to utilize dreams and fantasies for inspiration. The pieces may 

appear spontaneous, with peculiar or unexpected combinations of 

objects. Constructivism art is often made of metal, wood, glass or 

plastic. Such pieces are intended to reflect ideas that are concrete 

and tangible. Finally, the pop art movement depicts commonplace, 

everyday objects and images in a contemporary fashion. Inspiration 

for this art includes consumer product packaging and celebrity 

photographs. As you are learning about art, it is quite possible you 

may have the honor of witnessing artwork in progress. You may 

see an “abozzo,” an Italian word which means “sketch.” If working 

with a canvas, it is the first drawing, outline or underpainting. If it 

pertains to sculpture, it is the lump of clay, chunk of wood or piece 

of any material that has begun to take the form of the final piece. An 

abozzo demonstrates that great work is in progress, and it shows the 

value of those early stages when curiosity, inspiration and diligence 

form a powerful and fruitful combination. 


Gallery owners and 

museum docents 

are experienced and 

resourceful guides who 

can provide you facts 

on pieces of interest. 

Ask to know more 

about the artist, the 

time period when the 

piece was created, any 

other history associated 

with the piece and its 

appraised value. 

While you continue the process of 

learning about and appreciating art, you 

will also benefit from tracking the prices of 

pieces you enjoy. Notice how prices vary 

with location, artist and style of art. Consider 

what you may personally find meaningful, 

and therefore valuable, while you also 

consider others’ input, including prices set 

by the artists and others’ opinions of what 

is reasonable. On a small-scale, notice 

price ranges at local galleries and exhibits 

to gauge fair market value. You might have 

the desire to look large-scale and enjoy the 

works of renowned artists, or even make an 

investment by owning a particular piece. In 

that case, it may be most helpful to gain the 

assistance of an art appraiser. You might seek 

a professional’s assistance, or on an informal 

level, browse Internet sites that include 

appraisals for particular artists’ works. This is 

especially important research for becoming 

an educated buyer. 

Like an “abozzo,” there is much value in 

your first stage of becoming art savvy, and much 

to be gained from your continued efforts. ■ 

Sources for this article are artcyclopedia. 

com, askart.com 

and findartinfo.com 


herlife | spotlight 

Dreaming of making some interior design changes to your home? No matter what 

your project, budget or vision, the team at The Sitting Room can help! Whether 

it’s a dramatic change you desire or just that perfectly added simple touch, The 

Sitting Room is ready to make an exciting difference 

in your home’s overall ambiance, presentation 

and feel. 

When Kate Regan, professional design expert 

and owner of The Sitting Room, opened her first 

store in an unassuming 600 square foot showroom 

studio in Minnetonka nine years ago, word-ofmouth 

quickly spread as satisfied clients began to 

notice her expertise. As the design business grew, 

so did the retail space, and over the course of the 

next several years, Kate relocated her store twice. 

She now showcases her products and unparalleled 

service in a 2,000 square foot showroom 

and retail boutique that offers a unique product 

mix of custom furniture, lighting, accessories and 

gifts located at 380 Second Street in the charming 

lakeside community of Excelsior. “I wanted clients 

to have the opportunity to see and feel quality 

home furnishings in a cohesive setting” says Kate. 

“When new customers visit the boutique we want 

them to be inspired. The best thing we hear our 

customers say is, ‘I want to move in! This is exactly 

how I want my house to feel!’” Kate emphasized. 

The Sitting Room is a full-service interior 

design firm that provides its clientele not only the best in products, experience and creativity, but 

also overall customer service and satisfaction. Their expertise, attention to detail and innovative 

thinking have led them to work with customers not only locally but across the country as well. 

The combined experience of Kate and the team at The Sitting Room has proven to be a winning 

The 

Sitting 

Room 

by ann e. butenas 

photography by michelle lockwood 


and highly respected combination. 

“When working with our clients, our goal is to expose them to 

new design concepts and products while at the same time making their 

home about their lifestyle and tastes. We want the space we design 

to feel meaningful to them and offer durability as well as beauty and 

style,” smiled Kate. 

Although The Sitting Room’s main focus is the interior design 

studio, the boutique is just as impressive with the products it retails as 

it is in the services it provides. If you are searching for that unique item 

for your home, you will probably find it here. 

“Our one-of-a-kind boutique sells items you won’t typically find in 

other retail stores,” said Kate. “We source our products from markets in 

High Point, North Carolina, New York and Atlanta, and we are always 

searching for unique, high-quality items.” 

The Sitting Room is also in the process of developing an online 

store for greater accessibility to their hand-selected designer products 

which they plan to unveil in the upcoming year. ■ 

For more information, visit them online at thesittingroomstudio.com 

or call 952-473-4440. 


herlife | finance 

Pros and Cons 

of Hybrid Cars 

by heather noble 

If you’ve ever thought about buying a hybrid vehicle, you’ve also 

likely taken pause to consider whether or not such a purchase is 

truly beneficial both short-term and long-term. Hybrids have been 

available for purchase in the United States since the late 1990s, and 

they are increasingly popular. These vehicles are considered technologically 

advanced by using at least two sources of power. Unlike a 

conventional car that uses gas to power an internal combustion engine, 

or an electric car that relies upon high-voltage batteries, most hybrid 

vehicles use both of these energy sources. For that reason, there are 

pros and cons for the consumer who considers owning one. 

The cars can transport a family 

of four with reasonable comfort, 

and they offer a number of 

quality features that add to the 

passengers’ convenience. These 

can include automatic climate 

control, navigation systems, an iPod 

interface, keyless start systems and 

Bluetooth capability. Depending 

on the city in which you live, 

you might also have access to 

restricted lanes for faster traveling 

when driving a hybrid vehicle. 

A major draw toward hybrids is their reduced impact for harming 

our environment. Some hybrid owners embrace this quality 

wholeheartedly, emphasizing environmental consciousness as a 

primary motivator for the purchase, though you may also see a bumper 

sticker or two that depicts this priority 

including “Think Outside the Barrel” 

and the clarifying “Just Because I Drive 

a Hybrid Doesn’t Mean I’m a Hippie.” 

Whether or not owners tote these messages 

in some manner, this is a valid point 

in favor of the hybrid. Conventional cars 

emit the greenhouse gas carbon dioxide, 

in addition to smog-producing gases such 

as nitrous oxides and carbon monoxide. 

An additional benefit to the Earth and to 

you, hybrids are considered more efficient 

in energy use. This results in 

less gas needed, which ultimately 

means you are paying less at the 

pump. Such a benefit is even 

greater with a variant of the hybrid, 

the PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric 

Vehicle), which has a higher battery capacity 

and additional feature of recharging 

the batteries at home or at a charging station. The 


PHEV can then be driven short distances on battery power alone. 

Critics who have reviewed hybrid vehicles described them as 

more than sufficient in meeting most people’s needs. The cars can 

transport a family of four with reasonable comfort, and they offer a 

number of quality features that add to the passengers’ convenience. 

These can include automatic climate control, navigation systems, an 

iPod interface, keyless start systems and Bluetooth capability. Depending 

on the city in which you live, you might also have access to 

restricted lanes for faster traveling when driving a hybrid vehicle. 

The major deterrent for most people in the market to buy a car is 

the cost, and hybrids do generally have a higher price tag. The purchase 

price can be as much as 20 percent greater than the gas-powered equivalent. 

Furthermore, hybrids known to obtain better gas mileage are correspondingly 

higher in price. If you don’t plan to keep the car for long, 

the resale value can be lower, too. This is because the costly high-voltage 

batteries will need to be replaced, but as an additional consideration, the 

cost of these batteries has been noted to vary and has potential to decline 

in the future with advancing technology. It’s helpful to calculate the 

“payback” or length of time needed to compensate for the initial expensive 

purchase price that is offset by having more economical maintenance 

costs. This depends upon the cost of fuel, and reaching “payback” 

may take a number of years. Online resources can assist with calculating 

this number. Additionally, it should be noted that in the United States, 

the tax credit for hybrid ownership ended in 2010. Sources indicate this 

particular incentive is not likely to return. 

Vehicle maintenance can also be a drawback. Because hybrids 

are more complex in their technology and dual energy systems, they 

cannot be serviced or maintained by just any garage. This may change 

with time but for now, it should be expected that service work is completed 

by a dealer or an officially recognized mechanic shop. 

An additional consideration that may be a drawback is the 

availability and use of space in a hybrid vehicle. As previously noted, 

hybrids are considered reasonably comfortable modes of transportation. 

Nevertheless, the size of the battery must be accommodated, and 

this can result in less storage space, such as a smaller trunk. Also, the 

“payload capacity” can be impacted, which is the capability of the vehicle 

to carry weight. The heaviness of the battery pack might adversely 

impact this factor. 

Hybrid vehicles are likely here to stay, so they are an ongoing 

consideration if and when you are in the market to purchase a new car. 

As with all major purchases, there are many things to think about as 

you assess your unique needs and what you value in owning and using 

a particular vehicle. Also, consult with dealers and current hybrid 

owners to make an informed decision. Whether or not a current hybrid 

is a good fit for you, it likely will be of benefit to keep updated on the 

advancements in this industry. The search for renewable resources and 

cost efficiency is of high demand for the consumer. ■ 

Sources for this article are edmunds.com, kbb.com, 

hybridcarsprosandcons.org and comparehybridcars.net. 

Professional 

Organizing 

Professional 

Decorating 

Professional 

Home Staging 

www.sarahfgordon.com 


herlife | home 

Basic Lawn Care Tips 

by kathleen m. krueger 

children had a lovely time playing in the garden,” my 

British friends will say. Of course, my mind immediately 

“The 

conjures up pictures of children frolicking between rows 

of cabbage, corn and tomatoes. In reality, they are talking about the 

expanse of green turf which surrounds their home, what we refer to as 

our lawn or the front or backyard of our home. The terms are different, 

but the meanings are the same. 

Somehow ‘the garden’ sounds much more elegant. Pictures of 

flower beds, fountains and paved pathways come to mind. For some 

homes, both here and abroad, that would be an accurate picture. For 

others, a patch of green, large or small, framed with hedges, fences or 

trees is the image that comes to mind when a lawn or yard is mentioned. 

Regardless of the framing, the basic canvas stretched across 

each of these naturescapes is the green, grassy lawn. 

Caring for that expanse of living green carpet is an important 

part of maintaining your home’s exterior curb appeal. Depending on 

the area of the country in which you live, this can be a year-round or 

a seasonal maintenance item. Regardless of which is the case, there 

are only three basic items to be concerned with when it comes to lawn 

care: feeding, mowing and watering. 

Proper Nutrition for a Healthy Lawn 

A healthy body of grass requires proper nutrition to keep it strong 

and resistant to disease and environmental stresses, just like our human 

bodies do. Your grass will naturally seek the nutrients it needs from the 

soil where it is planted. When those nutrients are already present in the 

soil, your only job is to keep the root system of your grass strong and 

reaching deep into the soil. Unfortunately, many homes have lawns 

planted over soil types that are less than optimal for the growing of a 

green covering. In those cases, you will want to provide some nutritional 

supplements to your lawn’s diet. 

The Extension Service of the University of Minnesota provides 

some great tips on feeding your lawn. One important tip for all homeowners 

to heed relates to temperature. Fertilizer should never be 

applied to your lawn when temperatures are in excess of 85 degrees, 

they say. The higher the air temperature, the greater the risk of burning 

the leaves of the grass with the fertilizer compound. In order for 

the fertilizer to become useful for the grass, it must also be washed 

down into the soil. Because of this, it is recommended to apply fertilizer 

just prior to a rain or to water the lawn following the application 

of the fertilizer. Lastly, the Extension Service stresses that the most 

important and effective time for fertilizing your lawn is in the fall, 

rather than the spring. 

Grooming Tips for Your Patch of Green 

A thick, well-manicured lawn is the perfect accent to the exterior 

of your home, but keeping it trimmed to the right height can be a lot of 

work. Many homeowners make the mistake of cutting their lawn as low 

as possible with each mowing in order to prolong the time in between 

mowings. This seems like a logical strategy, however, it isn’t the best 

strategy for a healthy lawn. Cutting your grass short means that the 

growth energy of the plants will be focused on producing more leaf instead 

of stronger, deeper roots. A strong, healthy root system is what creates 

a strong healthy lawn that can withstand environmental stresses and 

fight off weeds that try to invade its growing space. Keep your mower set 

high and trim it a little more frequently to retain a full carpet of green. 


Moderated Hydration Creates a Luscious Lawn 

Every lawn needs a certain amount of water to keep it healthy 

and green. However, too much water, too often can actually be detrimental 

to the overall health of your lawn. Don Taylor, Horticulturist 

for the Extension Service at the University of Minnesota, advices 

homeowners to wait as long as possible between waterings of their 

lawns. Lack of water in the surface soil encourages the grass roots to 

grow deeper in search of moisture, making for a stronger root system 

that is better able to sustain the plants during dry periods. 

In addition, Taylor recommends being selective about the time 

of day that you water your lawn. Early mornings, between 4 and 8 

a.m., are what he suggests to avoid losing water to evaporation during 

the heat of the day. He also discourages watering your lawn in 

the evening. 

“If the grass plants go into the nighttime hours wet, they will 

remain wet for extended periods of time. This may favor the growth 

and development of turf grass diseases,” Taylor says. 

In summary, don’t cut it too short, don’t water it too often 

and provide its biggest meal at the end of the season rather than 

continually through the summer. These are general instructions, of 

course. For specifics for your area of the country, and your soil and 

grass type, it would be best to consult with a lawn care professional 

in your city. ■ 

For more detailed information on lawn care, visit the University of 

Minnesota’s Extension Service on the web at extension.umn.edu 


herlife | tie the knot 

Sarah 

& 

Lance 

LOCAL BUSINESSES 

THAT SHARED 

IN THE LOVE 

Bridal gown: 

Macy’s Bridal Salon 

by Demetrios 

Bridesmaids’ 

gowns: 

J.Crew 

Hair styling: 

Julie Swenson Beauty 

Photography: 

JuxtaPhotos 

florist: 

I Do Flowers 

DJ: 

Instant Request 

Caterer: 

Fabulous Catering 

Venue: 

Silverwood 

Three Rivers Park District 

Calligrapher: 

Calligraphy With Style 

Event Planning: 

Fab.you.lous Event Design 

honeymoon resort: 

Rockhouse 

Negril, Jamaica 

Tied the Knot April 28, 2012 

by candi smith | photography by juxtaphotos 


Sarah Fischer is 29 years old and is a resident in Internal Medicine. 

Soon after she started dating Lance, she was accepted 

to medical school in Chicago. Lance graciously offered to 

move from Minnesota with Sarah after only a few months of dating. 

The couple plans to move back to Minnesota when her residency is 

completed and her practice is established, and to raise lots of babies 

(that last part is for the future grandparents!). 

Lance Fischer is also 29 years old, and earned his marketing 

degree from UMD in 2005. He has explored the world of sales and 

customer service ever since. Even before winning his wife’s heart with 

homemade Chicken Parmesan, Lance was happy to be cooking or at 

least playing in the kitchen. When he’s not keeping them well-fed, 

Lance dabbles in home brewing, record collecting and threatening to 

learn a fourth chord on his dusty guitar. The newlyweds currently live 

in Kalamazoo, Michigan. 

Sarah and Lance were introduced in college by a mutual friend, 

Adam. Although they went to separate colleges, they knew each other 

from various parties and get-togethers. Once Lance moved to St. Paul after 

graduation, the couple got to know one another better at their “buck 

burger” and karaoke nights at a local dive bar with friends. Lance finally 

asked Sarah out on a date, and she is just the kind of girl to be won over 

with a Red Savoy’s pizza. They’ve been inseparable ever since. 

After Lance popped the question, Sarah bewilderedly responded, 

“Wait, what?” Not knowing what to do with that answer, he took the 

ring from its box and placed it on her finger as he tried to control his 

shaking. In the romantically dim light under the “El” and the neon 

glow of the donut shop, Lance asked her again, “Will you marry me?” 

Finally, Sarah said, “Of course!” and Lance calmed down. They 

finished their walk back to the car after the Broadway show and the 

Italian dinner that preceded it. 

The happy couple tied the knot on April 28, 2012. Sarah’s two 

sisters, Megan and Kelsey, were joint Maids of Honor. Lance’s brother, 

Justin, was his Best Man, and his sisters, Kirsten and Heather, were his 

groomsmaids. Since their family and friends are very important to the 

couple, they wanted to incorporate them in their wedding as much as 

possible. Sarah and Lance’s siblings stood up for them as their wedding 

party, their friend who initially introduced them got ordained and performed 

the ceremony, two friends provided ceremony music and a delicious 

wedding cake, and their two grandmothers served as their witnesses 

for their marriage certificate. Also, the couple attempted the impossible 

by planning an outdoor ceremony in April in Minnesota. Luckily, they 

had a beautiful spring backdrop to the cold and rainy weather that 

brought the ceremony indoors. 

The newlyweds had never been on a true vacation as a couple, so 

they were not going to let this opportunity pass them by, which prompted 

the 6:00 a.m. flight the morning after the wedding. Sarah and Lance 

went to Negril, Jamaica, because they wanted to stay somewhere warm, 

somewhere they could relax after their wedding planning days were 

behind them, and that would always be unique when they remembered 

“where we went on our honeymoon.” ■ 


herlife | pets 

Introducing a Young Dog to an Older Dog 

by laura wynn 

While fun and exciting, introducing a new puppy to a 

family home can be tricky when you have an existing 

four-legged family member who is quite comfortable 

with his or her place in the family hierarchy. Typically, our furry family 

members are not the least bit amused by having a bouncing, chewing 

companion added to their domain. The resident pal may need 

time to warm up to the idea of a younger dog as a roommate. There 

are steps that should be taken to make the introduction of a new dog 

easier for everyone. 

The first step in the introduction process is to sit down with human 

family members and determine the house rules. Consistency is 

important during the introductory period, and both dogs need to know 

what to expect from each family member. Both dogs should have the 

same privileges, as perceived favoritism to either pet will likely present 

trouble. If your current dog has always been allowed on the couch, 

this is not the time to change that rule. Likewise, the younger dog 

will expect the same right. Dogs quickly learn who puts food in their 

bellies, so knowing who will have this duty is important to them. The 

same person should feed both dogs to avoid confusion for either of 

them. Your present dog is unlikely to tolerate the antics and energy of 

a younger counterpart for long, so learn to recognize signs from your 

older pet that she’s not having fun anymore. 

When a new dog is added to a home, your current pet feels 

compelled to reestablish or confirm her personal rank within the new 

family unit. Reestablishing rank often leads to fighting. Fighting can 

be very dangerous for both the dogs and their human enthusiasts, 

especially if one dog is larger or stronger than the other. During a dog 

fight, the canines aren’t thinking about who’s right; they are exhibiting 

instinctual pack behavior and acting in survival mode. Your goal is 

to avoid this scenario. If possible, introduce the two dogs in a neutral 

place rather than in your home. Perhaps start off by taking them for a 

walk together someplace other than your own yard. Let them play together 

and watch how they interact. Your role in the introduction is to 

make both dogs feel good when they’re in the presence of each other. 

When a younger dog is introduced to the family, it’s easy to inadvertently 

direct more attention toward the new family member, making 


your older dog feel left out. Give your original 

dog the same amount of attention and time 

that she received prior to the new dog being 

introduced. When the two dogs are interacting 

in a friendly way, be sure to give them lots of 

praise in a loving voice, making conscious efforts 

to give your original dog sufficient attention. 

You want her to feel good about her new 

playmate while assuring her she is not losing 

your affection or being replaced. There’s likely 

to be verbal disgruntle-ment. If there is any 

growling or snarling, respond with a strong, 

verbal “no.” Hitting, kicking or pushing either 

dog is never okay, and will increase the tension 

and discomfort the dogs are encountering. It’s 

important that you remain a neutral and calm 

influence. 

Unlike with our human children, we 

cannot impress upon a dog the importance 

of sharing. Never force your younger dog to 

share a food or water bowl, toys or a bed with 

your original dog. Possessions and food are 

not taken lightly by dogs, as anyone who has 

seen a 70-pound Golden Retriever carrying a 

stuffed bunny is well aware. It’s advisable to 

feed the two dogs in separate rooms for awhile. 

This will eliminate each dog’s need to be sure 

their basic instinct of nourishment is not going 

to be threatened by the other. It’s a good idea 

to pick up special toys to avoid jealousy until 

the two have become friends. 

Dogs are pack animals, and it’s important 

to allow the two newly-introduced housemates 

to determine their own pack order. You may 

be surprised to see your current dog happily 

take a role as the submissive sister. Don’t adopt 

a sympathetic demeanor towards her, because 

if she has accepted this position, she is likely 

content to let the younger dog be the boss. 

Trying to reverse the roles the two dogs have 

established can destroy pack unity and even 

disrupt the introduction process. 

Bringing a young dog into the household 

requires a period of adjustment for both 

humans and animals, but with a little patience, 

common sense and a plan of action, 

it can be the beginning of a wonderful new 

relationship. ■ 

Sources for this article are cesarsway.com 

and petplace.com. 

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10 GAMES OR 10 TICKETS 

IT’S YOUR CHOICE! 

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herlife | in the city 

Calendar 

Co 

of Events 

Brought to you by Herlife magazine 

and Minneapolis2night.com 

june 1 

Edina Art Fair 

Date: June 1 

Time: 10:00am–6:00pm 

Location: 50th & France, Edina 

Details: 50th and France Business and Professional 

Association is hosting its 46th Annual 

Edina Art Fair, and the first official art fair of 

the year! The event will feature the works of 

320 fine artists from Minnesota and Canada, 

live entertainment, amazing food and activities 

for the kids. This is a free event with a free 

shuttle bus as well. For more information, 

please visit edinaartfair.com. 

june 2 

American Diabetes 

Association Twin Cities Tour 

de Cure 

Date: June 2 

Location: Minnehaha Falls 

Details: Our magnificent metropolitan 

tour features the best of Minneapolis and 

St. Paul, from lakes to rivers, skyscrapers to 

stadiums, downtown to uptown, and everything 

in between. With 6 tours to choose 

from, there is something for everyone! Ride 

like a pro with full SAG, medical, mechanical 

and radio support. One you cross the 

finish line, there will be lunch, live music, 

massages and more. Please visit diabetes.org/ 

twincitiestourdecure to register or for more 

information. 

june 3 

Roger Waters’ “The Wall” 

Date: June 3 

Time: 8:00pm 

Location: Xcel Energy Center 

Details: Waters first performed “The Wall” 

Live to a sold-out crowd at Xcel Energy 

Center in October 2010. The 2012 date will 

once again feature a full band and a mounted 

state-of-the-art production of Waters’ epochal 

masterpiece of alienation and transformation 

performed in its entirety. Originally released 

in November 1979, The Wall was America’s 

top-selling album of 1980, is one of the topselling 

double albums of all time, and is still 

in the U.S.’s top five best-selling albums of all 

time. For tickets or more information, please 

visit xcelenergycenter.com. 

Grand Old Day 

Date: June 3 

Time: 7:45am–5:00pm 

Location: Grand Avenue, St. Paul 

Details: St. Paul’s biggest block party, this 

festival is a party for the whole family. Happening 

all along Grand Avenue, the event 

includes a parade, arts fair, fun runs and a hot 

dog eating contest put on by Coney Island’s 

Nathan’s Famous. The festival just happens to 

be the largest one-day shindig in the Midwest. 

For more information, please visit grandave. 

com/grand-old-day. 

june 9 

Northern Spark 

Dates: June 9–June 10 

Time: 5:45pm–6:00am 

Location: Throughout the Twin Cities 

Details: Northern Spark is back for another 

night of art all over town. Celebrating the 

creativity of artists, this event seeks to reveal 

the dynamic intersection between urban 

planning, art and design. With dusk-to-dawn 

installations across the city, including the 

Weisman Art Museum, the MIA, Father 

Hennepin and Loring Parks, the event features 

more than 200 artists who temporarily 

transform the nighttime landscape. This is a 

free event. For more information, please visit 

2012.northernspark.org/index.php. 

june 12 

Fela! 

Dates: June 12–June 17 

Times: Varies 

Location: The Ordway Center for 

Performing Arts 

Details: Fela! is a new musical directed and 

choreographed by Tony Award-winner Bill 

T. Jones. Audiences are welcomed into the 

extravagant, decadent and rebellious world of 

Afro-beat legend Fela Anikulapo Kuti. Using 

a blend of jazz, funk and African rhythm and 

harmonies, Fela! explores Kuti’s controversial 

life as an artist, political activist and revolutionary 

musician. A three-time Tony Award 

winner in 2010, this production arrives at the 

Ordway direct from Broadway. For tickets or 

more information, please visit ordway.org 


june 13 

Gala in The Gardens 

Date: June 13 

Time: 6:00pm–9:00pm 

Location: The Minnesota Landscape 

Arboretum 

Details: The Minnesota Landscape 

Arboretum Foundation presents Gala in the 

Gardens, the premier party of the summer, 

in the incomparable garden setting of the 

Arboretum. Guests will enjoy cocktails in the 

gardens, al fresco dining, a live auction, music 

and conversation. Individual tickets are $250. 

Please visit www .arboretum.umn.edu/gala. 

aspx for reservations and more information. 

june 16 

St. Paul’s Summer Beer Fest 

Date: June 16 


Location: Minnesota State Fairgrounds— 

International Bazaar 

Details: St. Paul’s biggest beer festival 

dedicated to craft beers! With over 70+ 

breweries in its third year, the St. Paul 

Summer Beer Fest is fast becoming the 

Twin Cities’ foremost craft beer festival. The 

festival will feature craft beer sampling, a 

commemorative tasting glass, live music, 

food, a silent auction and the fun atmosphere 

of Minnesota State Fairgrounds. General 

admission is $40. For more information, 

please visit stpaulsummerbeerfest.com. 

KidStock 2012 

Date: June 16 

Time: 10:00am–3:00pm 

Location: The Shoppes at Arbor Lakes, 

Maple Grove 

Details: KidStock, presented by the Maple 

Grove Arts Council, is a day of free activities 

and entertainment for kids of all ages! Enjoy 

Teddy Bear Parade, Dance Party, Face 

Painting, Caricatures, food vendors & more! 

St. Louis Park’s Dad Dash 

Date: June 16 

Time: 7:30am 

Location: Wolfe Park, St. Louis Park 

Details: Run for (or with) your dad! Join 

us on a family-friendly 5K run, walk or roll 

and the “Kids Almost-a-Mile” run or walk. 

Both courses travel along paved city trails 

and around lakes before finishing in Wolfe 

Park. Proceeds support Teens Alone, a 

non-profit providing free and confidential 

counseling and crisis services for teens and 

their parents. Register at Nutrishop West End 

or visit stlouispark.org. for more information. 

Nutrishop registrants get an additional entry 

into the drawing for prize giveaways! 

International Festival of 

Burnsville 

Date: June 16 


Location: Nicollet Commons Park, 126th 

Street & Nicollet Avenue, Burnsville 

Details: Come taste, hear and see culture 

from around the world. This free festival will 

feature a wide variety of cultural dance and 

musical performances, ethnic food, cultural 

exhibits and plenty of children’s activities. 

Bring your family to Burnsville and travel the 

world in one day! For more information, visit 

burnsville.org/ifb. 

june 17 

Kristin Chenoweth 

Date: June 17 

Time: 8:00pm 

Location: The State Theater 

Details: Kristin Chenoweth has a very 

long list of accomplishments, winning a 

Tony Award for her role as Sally Brown 

in the Broadway musical You’re A Good 

Man, Charlie Brown, earning a Tony Award 

nomination for originating the role of Glinda 

in Wicked, and winning an Emmy Award 

for her performance as Olive Snook in the 

television dramedy Pushing Daisies, just to 

name a few. Now, in a rare concert appearance, 

Chenoweth will perform songs from her 

latest album Some Lessons Learned, as well 

as an array of her most memorable songs and 

Broadway show tunes, including music from 

Wicked, Promises, Promises, and Glee. For 

tickets or more information, please visit HennepinTheatreTrust.org 

june 21 

Anytown 

Dates: June 21–June 24th 

Times: Varies 

Location: The Guthrie Theater 

Details: Family ties–whether they come 

from a real family or a family of choice–are at 

the heart of Anytown, a unique collaboration 

pairing the choreography of Minneapolisbased 

Shapiro & Smith Dance with the music 

of rock ‘n’ roll legend Bruce Springsteen, 

his wife Patti Scialfa and Soozie Tyrell. For 

tickets or more information, please visit 

guthrietheater.org. 

NOTE: All calendar events must 

be received by June 1st for the July 

issue and adhere to our guidelines. 

Email llee@herlifemagazine.com 

for guidelines and to submit entries. 


herlife | scene and be seen 

Gourmet Oil & Vinegar First Anniversary Event 

photography by michelle lockwood photography 

Gourmet Oil & Vinegar at Excelsior and Grand in St. Louis Park recently celebrated 

their first year anniversary with a fantastic all-day event on April 21st. Guests received 

discounts, gift bags and tasty samples of snacks using recipes and products 

from the store. A personal chef was on hand to inform visitors of the many varieties of oils 

and vinegars available for purchase and how to use them. Recipes were also available for 

customers to take home so they could try out their delicious new gourmet products! 

Gal-A-Rama 

photography by tricia riggin photography 

On April 19, over 200 women joined HERLIFE Magazine and many other local 

businesses for an evening of shopping and fun! The very first Gal-A-Rama 

event was held at The University Club in St. Paul where guests sipped wine, 

snacked on hors d’oeuvre and yummy cupcakes, and perused the fantastic wares of over 

17 local, women-owned businesses. There were adorable baby gifts from Baby Banou 

and sparkly fashions from Pink Door Boutique and Mainstream Boutique, as well as 

complimentary hairstyling from Mes Amis le Spa. What a great night!

Hybrid Cars - HERLIFE Magazine

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