|
D.E.A.R. Hunting
Divas Enjoying Awesome Retail
Saturday, November 8 | 9AM-4PM
All around Waconia
The Waconia Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to announce the 18th Annual Divas Enjoying Awesome Retail (D.E.A.R.) Day on Saturday, November 9th, from 9 AM to 4 PM. Get ready for a fun-filled day of shopping, sipping, dining, and scoring great deals across Waconia!
| | |
Highlights of D.E.A.R. Day
• Scavenger Hunt Map: Find D-E-A-R and to be entered to win a “Basket of Waconia”—a prize valued at over $400, filled with goodies from local shops, bars, and restaurants!
• Exclusive Deals: Enjoy special offers while you shop, sip, and dine. Wear deer hunting orange for extra offers!
• Shop Local, Support Local: By shopping locally, you’re helping our community thrive and keeping Waconia’s small-town charm vibrant.
| | |
We Want to Hear from You! Take Our Annual Survey
Your experience and insights are incredibly valuable to us! As we plan for 2026, we want to ensure that the Waconia Chamber programs, events, and initiatives align with the needs and goals of of your business. That’s why we’re inviting you to take a few moments to complete our Annual Membership Satisfaction Survey.
What’s in it for you? Your feedback will help to form the future of the Waconia Chamber efforts to enhance current programming and events, and explore new ways to support your business. Whether it’s networking opportunities, community events, workforce development, tourism initiatives, partnerships with schools, this is your chance to let us know what matters most to you.
As a thank you, you'll be entered into a drawing to win tickets to the Waconia Chamber Holiday Social on Monday, December 8 from 5-8:00PM at Schram Vineyards. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Deadline: Please complete the survey by Friday, November 21
| | |
Host a Coffee Connection in 2026
It’s time to plan for 2026! Opportunities include hosting one of the monthly Coffee Connections or sponsoring a Chamber Luncheon. With last year's high interest in hosting a Coffee Connection, availability for hosting in 2026 is limited. if interest in a Coffee Connection, email your top three month choices to Chelsey at ckoubsky@destinationwaconia.org. One of the many Chamber member benefits is the exposure that your business gets from being involved in events, presentations, and publications that the Chamber promotes. Sponsorship and/or involvement increases you
| | A Message from the President | | | | |
The Power of Curiosity: Why Authentic Conversations Matter
by Christine Fenner
President, Waconia Chamber of Commerce
| A few years ago, I attended a conference where the facilitator gave us an interesting assignment: reach out to someone who knows you well and ask them to describe you in one word. I texted my cousin (who's like a sister to me) and quickly received a response, "curious." | | |
That word has stuck with me. Curiosity isn't just about asking questions; it's about genuinely wanting to understand the people around us. It's about showing up authentically, being present in conversations, and never assuming we've learned all there is to know.
Grab the Bull by the Horns
As a city girl embracing country, I have a whole new understanding of what it means to "grab the bull by the horns." And recently, our Chamber team had the memorable experience of meeting "Brutus," a 1,800-pound Brahman bull!
| | Retail Community of the Year | | |
Waconia Named Retail Community of the Year
Minnesota Retailers is proud to announce the community of Waconia as the recipient of the Retail Community of the Year award, part of the 2025-2026 Minnesota's Retail Champions program. This award celebrates Waconia’s extraordinary collaboration and innovative spirit in creating a vibrant, thriving retail landscape that serves as a model for communities across Minnesota.
| | |
A Note from the Waconia Chamber Board Chair
On behalf of the Waconia Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, I extend congratulations and a heartfelt thank you to our amazing Waconia retailers! Being named the Minnesota Retail Association’s Community of the Year is such a well-deserved honor — and a great reflection of your hard work, creativity and community spirit.
This award celebrates what makes Waconia so special —local businesses that support each other, care about their customers, and make our community such a fun and welcoming place to visit, shop, dine, live and work. Thank you for all you to do strengthen Waconia’s economy and enhance the quality of life – and experiences – in our community.
Thank you for all you do every day to make Waconia shine.
Congratulations again on this well-earned statewide honor!
With gratitude and pride,
Lisa Steinbauer, Ridgeview
Chair, Waconia Chamber Board of Directors
| | | | Click to watch the Minnesota Retailers Association 2025-26 Retail Community of the Year video. | | Business Resources & Updates | | |
Election Day: November 4
ISD110 school leaders are asking residents to consider an operating levy referendum - a levy for learning - in the November 4 General Election. Click here for the referendum fact sheet.
| | |
Minnesota Paid Leave
New Paid Leave Preparation Tools
The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) has released new tools to help Minnesotans prepare for the Paid Leave program, launching January 1.
-
Paid Leave launched an online payment calculator that workers can use to estimate how much they could receive in payments if approved for benefits. Employers can also use this tool to see how much of an employee’s usual pay they could receive from the state while on leave, helping them decide whether to offer supplemental payments to top off Paid Leave payments. Earlier this year, Paid Leave introduced a calculator that employers and individuals can use to estimate premium costs under the program.
- Paid Leave also recently began answering Minnesotans’ questions through a dedicated Contact Center phone line. Staff can be reached 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday, except state holidays, at 651-556-7777 or 844-556-0444 (toll-free).
-
A new checklist to help employers prepare for Paid Leave is also now available. This checklist directs employers to additional ways they can learn more and take action, like printing out the new workplace poster they must display. The poster is available in multiple languages today on Paid Leave’s website.
| | |
Local Chamber Partner Meeting Recap
Last week, Chamber President Christine Fenner attended the Minnesota Chamber's local chamber partner meeting (Grow MN, Business Education Network, and Federation). The session covered Minnesota’s current economic and manufacturing outlook, workforce development initiatives, and a preview of the 2026 legislative and election landscape. These meetings help ensure our Chamber stays informed and engaged on statewide business issues that impact our local economy.
| | |
Grow Minnesota! is a program of the Minnesota Chamber Foundation partnering with dozens of local chambers of commerce and economic development organizations around the state to collect on-the-ground economic insights and connect businesses with resources to grow and expand in the state.
Interested in a Grow Minnesota visit? Email Christine at cfenner@destinationwaconia.org.
| | | |
Green Fox Grille
Greg James
7795 Laketown Pkwy
Waconia, MN 55387
Restaurant
| |  | | |
We appreciate your support!
Thank you to all our renewing members for your investment in the Waconia Chamber.
| | |
Andy Mohn State Farm
Fibrenew Southwest Lakes
Graphic Print Promo & Design
Healing Ink & Art
Hearing Life
| | |
Home Again Furnishings
Metronet
Suburban Waste Services
The Otto Apartments
Wave Commercial Consulting
| | Ambassador Visits & Ribbon Cuttings | | |
Primary contact: Kyle Strickfaden
(952)-836-6746
thekyragroup@gmail.com
https://www.thekyragroup.com/
Kyle and his team specialize in serving small businesses and individuals with comprehensive accounting and tax services. They offer expert bookkeeping, payroll management, and tax preparation, ensuring accuracy and compliance every step of the way. Their personalized approach helps clients stay organized year-round while developing effective tax strategies to maximize savings and support financial growth.
| |
| |
Primary contact: Jodi Theis
612-806-1854
pawsinn@pawsinnpe.com
https://pawsinnpe.com/
Congratulations to Paws Inn Pet Essentials on their exciting expansion in Waconia! Jodi and her team are growing their locally owned pet supply store by adding a second floor at 120 S Vine Street, where they’ll now offer wellness services for your furry friends. The Waconia Chamber Ambassadors joined in to celebrate this wonderful new addition.
| |
| |
Primary contact: Geo Villavicencio
952-856-0299
219 E Frontage Rd, Waconia
coach@crushercrossfit.com
https://crushercrossfit.com/
Congratulations to Crusher CrossFit on the exciting new addition to their building at 219 E Frontage Road! The Crusher CrossFit team recently celebrated their expanded space with a ribbon-cutting alongside the Waconia Chamber Ambassadors.
| |
|
|
Bye Bye Brutus!
We had an un-BULL-ievable time last week with Brutus the Bull! The Chamber crew stopped by to wish him well before he headed south for the winter. He'll be back in time for the Extreme Events MN Waconia Rodeo slated for June 4-6, 2026! Thanks to Ted (Extreme Events MN) for letting us meet Brutus up close!
| | Congratulations on your milestone! Wishing you continued success. | | |
|
Celebrating 35 years of business
in Waconia!
| | | |
Happy 90th Birthday to a true Waconia legend,
Paul Melchert!
Paul is a strong believer in commerce and has left a solid footprint in shaping our community. In 1962, he wrote the original articles of incorporation for the Waconia Chamber of Commerce, and along with fellow business leaders also brought us Nickle Dickle Day!
His long-time contribution to the Waconia Chamber Board of Directors (and several other organizations) has left a lasting impact on local business and community. Paul, your love for Waconia continues to inspire us every day. Here's to celebrating you! Happy Birthday!
| | | Do you have a milestone coming up? Let us know - we'd love to celebrate you in the next newsletter! Email ckoubsky@destinationwaconia.org | | |
Navigating Minnesota's Paid Family and Medical Leave Workshop
On October 14, the Chamber hosted a workshop to help local employers prepare for Minnesota’s new Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) program, which takes effect January 1, 2026. Speakers from Melchert, Hubert, Sjodin Law, CBIZ, and Legacy Health Insurance shared key insights on employer requirements, premium rates, and compliance timelines to help businesses get ready for implementation.
| | |
AI for Small Business Luncheon
At the October Chamber Luncheon, we explored the world of artificial intelligence with “AI-forward” small business experts Debbie Schwake and Ashley Evenson. Attendees learned practical, easy-to-understand ways to integrate AI tools into their businesses and walked away with fresh ideas to boost efficiency and innovation.
Thanks to the Waconia Fire Department for the hospitality in their space and to Fire Chief Justin Sorensen for the fire safety and prevention reminder. Shoutout to Sizzle Street for the delicious lunch!
| | |
Waconia Young Professionals
The Waconia Young Professionals gathered this week for a happy hour at The Garage Bar & Bowl, enjoying great conversation and connections.
Save the date for the next event on Wednesday, November 19, 3:30-5:00PM —details coming soon!
| | |
Promote Your Business in the 2026 Waconia Chamber Membership & Visitors Directory!
We’re gearing up for the 2026 Waconia Membership & Visitors Directory! This annual publication highlights Chamber members and our vibrant community, serving as both a trusted local resource and a guide for visitors. This is not only a great way to promote your business, but also a chance to showcase the value of your Chamber membership to residents, newcomers, and visitors alike.
Important: Review Your Member Profile
As a member of the Waconia Chamber, your business will be in the directory listing. Please take a moment to review your member profile to ensure all your business information is up-to-date. This will ensure accurate representation in both the print and online versions of the directory. Click here for instructions.
| | |
Operation: Gather & Give | Will you match a food shelf donation?
Taylor Hubbard of Taylor Hubbard Photography is challenging fellow Waconia Chamber members to join her in supporting Gather and Grow Food Shelf. After raising $713 through her annual Halloween Portrait Charity Event, Taylor launched Operation: Gather & Give to encourage other local businesses to match or contribute to help families in need. Read her full letter and learn how to get involved on the Taylor Hubbard Photography Facebook Page.
| |
|
Jack-O-Lantern Pizza Special at Papa Murphy's Pizza
thru October 31
Papa Murphy's Pizza
1309 Oak Ave, Waconia
It is spooky season! Get in the spirit with our Jack-O Pizza. A large Jack-O-Lantern shaped pizza, topped with pizza sauce and mozzarella, finished with a pepperoni smile and two olive eyes and topped with more mozzarella and cheddar cheese. Order yours today online, on the app or in-store!
| |
|
Halloween Weekend at Waconia Saloon
Friday, October 31 thru Sunday, November 2
Waconia Saloon
16 S Elm St, Waconia
Celebrate Halloween weekend at Waconia Saloon with three days of fun, food, and festivities! On Friday, October 31, enjoy delicious food and drink specials. The excitement continues on Saturday, November 1, with a Halloween Party featuring live music from Shamus and the Sharks (8 PM–midnight), a costume contest with prizes, and drink specials throughout the night. Then, wrap up the weekend on Sunday, November 2, with a Vikings Watch Party and Potluck, complete with game day drink specials. Plus, don’t miss your chance to win two MN Vikings tickets—follow Waconia Saloon on Facebook for all the details!
| | |
Emergency Food Bag Community Donation Drive
Saturday, November 1 | 8AM-12PM
Donation Location: St. Joseph Catholic School Parking Lot
41 E 1st St, Waconia
As the government shutdown and SNAP benefit freeze continue, many of our neighbors are facing unexpected hardship. Gather and Grow is calling on our caring communities to come together to help fill Emergency Food Bags for anyone in need. We’re asking for donations of the following items: Cans of Fruit, Cans of Vegetables, Cans of Beans, Bags of Rice, Boxes of Pasta, Pasta Sauce, Peanut butter, Canned Meat (chicken or tuna).
Curbside donation drop off available. All collected items will be used to create emergency food bags that will be distributed directly at the Waconia and Watertown Libraries to anyone experiencing food insecurity during this difficult time. Together, we can make sure no one in our community goes hungry.
| | |
Youth Winter Outwear Drive
November 3-30
St. Joseph Catholic Church
41 E 1st St, Waconia
Help keep local youth warm this winter! Donate gently used or new coats, boots, snow pants, hats, gloves, and scarves (infant to adult XL sizes) between November 3-30. Donation bins are located at local public schools, participating businesses, and St. Joseph Catholic Church. Questions? Contact Julie Loscheider at 952-442-3703 or jloscheider@stjosephwaconia.org
Open House (St. Joseph Catholic STEM School)
Thursday, November 13 | 5-7:00PM
You are invited to our Tiny Steps, Big Futures event! Come and learn more about our preschool program and Kindergarten for the 2026-2027 academic year! This event is open to all preschool/incoming Kindergarten families!
Come meet our dedicated staff, explore our STEM-focused curriculum, and see how we nurture our youngest learners in a supportive and faith-filled environment.
5:00 - 5:45PM: Free Dinner - Chef Asha’s Famous Mac and Cheese (RSVP with QR Code)
5:45 - 6:15PM: Parent Presentation / Kid’s STEM Project
6:15 - 7:00PM: Parent Tours, Time with Teachers, Kids Games (Gym) and Dessert
| |
Business Education Network
Manufacturing & Trades
Tuesday, November 4 | 7-8:00AM
Waconia High School
1650 Community Dr, Waconia
Develops partnerships and builds future workforce connections through program development, skills, and real-world, hands-on learning experience. In collaboration with Waconia Public Schools Industrial Technology & Engineering teachers, administration, area business leaders, and the Waconia Chamber of Commerce. Who should attend? Manufacturing and trades businesses. RSVP to Christine at cfenner@destinationwaconia.org.
| |
Chamber Advantage: Unlock Your Benefits
Tuesday, November 4 | 10-11:30AM
Waconia Chamber Office
201 S Vine St, Waconia
Learn about the programs, benefits and services that are available to Waconia Chamber members. Whether you are a new member, a longtime member, or a prospective member and want to learn more about membership this is an event for you.
Free! Register to reserve your spot. Invite a friend!
| |
Yoga as Embodied Spiritual Practice
November 4, 11, 18, 25, and December 2 | 4:00-5:00PM
Moravian Church Sanctuary
209 E 2nd St, Waconia
Join Julie Kerr-Berry for a peaceful, spirit-filled yoga practice that welcomes all, no experience needed. This gentle, breath-based session invites participants to connect body, breath, and spirit in a sacred space. Come as you are, wear loose-fitting clothing, and bring a water bottle if you’d like. Free and open to everyone.
| |
Citizens With Courage
November 6 | 5:30-7:30
Cologne Community Center
1211 Village Pkwy, Cologne
Join Citizens With Courage, a free workshop series to depolarize and renew our shared civic life. These sessions teach how to be more aware of our own “inner polarizer,” challenge without attacking or disrespecting others, and use strategies to shift conversations away from contempt and ridicule. Hosted by Chris Commers and Mary Lou Platt, active community members dedicated to civic participation and respectful dialogue, this program is open to citizens seeking ways to reduce polarization in our community. Together, we will practice and take action to depolarize ourselves and strengthen our shared civic life.
| |
Locally Crafted Sip and Shop
November 5-6 | 4-9:00PM
Schram Vineyards
8785 Airport Rd, Waconia
It's the best shopping event of the fall as we gear up for holiday spirit gifting, self pampering and more. This annual two-day vendor market is full of local artists, craftsmen, designers, and more, selling all of their own "locally crafted" amazing gifts you need to prepare for the holidays while supporting local! The vendors and makers of products themselves will be set up in our Tasting Room, Barrel Room, and covered Pavilion, so there will be plenty of indoor shopping spaces to explore. Plus, we expect our new building to be open for exploring the new space! Fun wine packages and specials will be offered along with mulled wine samples. Tickets are set up to stagger arrival times and provide a great shopping experience for all. Get yours early!
| |
Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program
Applications DUE Wednesday, November 5
St. Cloud
The Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program is now accepting applications from Minnesota entrepreneurs ready to grow their businesses. This free, hands-on program—often called a “mini MBA”—offers business education, networking, and personalized advising, with all costs fully covered by the Goldman Sachs Foundation. Classes combine online and in-person learning, helping participants develop a 5-year growth plan tailored to their business. Class begins Feburary 8th, 2026 - Ends May 8th, 2026
| | |
Coffee Connection
Thursday, November 6 | 7:30-9AM
Shape It Up Fitness & Athleisure Boutique
44 W Main St, Waconia
Network and connect! We'd love to hear what's new with you and your business. Coffee Connection offers a perfect opportunity to explore the benefits of Waconia Chamber membership and connect with local professionals before becoming a member. We'd love to meet you! Coffee and a light snack will be served. No need to register.
| |
Home Stretch Homebuyer Education Course
Friday, November 7 | 8:30AM-5:00PM
Carver County CDA
705 N Walnut Street, Chaska
The Carver County CDA is hosting another Home Stretch Homebuyer Education Course. This full-day workshop covers everything from budgeting and financing to shopping for and closing on a home. Participants will learn from certified housing professionals and receive a Home Stretch certificate upon completion—often required for first-time homebuyer programs.
| | |
Meet Vikings Legend Chuck Foreman
Saturday, November 8 | 11:00AM-12:00PM
Lakeside Loft
256 W 1st St, Waconia
Stop by for a fun-filled DEAR Day and enjoy lunch with Vikings legend Chuck Foreman! Sample delicious bites from Tailgate Spices all day—plus, don’t miss your chance to try the best chicken soup ever!
| | |
Crafts For A Cause
November 12 thru November 15 | Time Varies
Southern Valley Alliance
103 3rd Ave E, Shakopee
Join Southern Valley Alliance for Crafts for a Cause—a unique handmade boutique event supporting local domestic abuse programs. This special four-day sale features a wide variety of handcrafted items, baked goods, and one-of-a-kind treasures made by talented local artists. Whether you're looking for gifts or treats for yourself, every purchase helps make a real difference. 100% of proceeds benefit our life-changing services for survivors of domestic abuse. Come shop with heart and help us create a safer, more supportive community, one handmade item at a time.
| |
Southern Valley Alliance Poinsettia Sale
November 24 thru November 26
Southern Valley Alliance
103 3rd Ave E, Shakopee
Spread Holiday Cheer & Support Survivors! Purchase beautiful poinsettias this holiday season and help support Southern Valley Alliance and our mission to end domestic violence in our community. Orders can be picked up at the SVA office in Shakopee from November 24–26, or delivered within Scott and Carver counties for orders of five or more. Order yours today!
| | |
Cribbage Tournament is Back
Tuesday, November 18 | 6-10:00PM
J. Carver Distillery
1320 Mill Lane, Waconia
Pre-registration is required and limited to the first 20 teams. Dinner provided by Winchester & Rye Restaurant in Victoria, MN by Chef Kevin Heenie. It will be delicious. Cocktails available from the J. Carver cocktail room menu. Each guest will receive a drink ticket, dinner, a bottle of Hunt Club 5 Year Limited Release Double Rye Whiskey, and Prizes.
To register or have questions, e-mail Bill at billm@jcarverdistillery.com.
| | |
New MD on Lakeview Clinic OB/GYN Team
Dr. Spencer Ferrell, MD is joining the Lakeview Clinic OB/GYN team and will begin seeing patients in early November. His special interests include minimally invasive gynecologic surgery, menopausal medicine, pelvic organ prolapse and urinary incontinence, routine and high-risk obstetrics, infertility evaluation and treatments, and PCOS management. With the expansion of our Women’s Health area, we will be adding another OB/GYN in the fall next year as well! We also want to congratulate OB/GYN, Dr. Amy Meath & Family Medicine Physician, Dr. Leah Clark on being recognized by voters in the Best of Carver County Sun Patriot contest.
| | |
Follow the Waconia Chamber on LinkedIn
The Waconia Chamber is on LinkedIn.
| | | |
November Luncheon
Behind the Forecast: Why Showing Up Authentically Wins
Thursday, November 20 | 11:30AM-1:00PM
Island View Golf Club
7795 Waconia Pkwy
Join KARE11 meteorologist John Zeigler for an engaging talk that goes beyond the weather map. John will share insights from his career in front of the camera, where authenticity isn't just preferred, it's essential. Discover how showing up as your genuine self builds trust with your audience, whether you're forecasting a blizzard or running a business.
Deadline to register: Monday, November 17
| | |
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: Waconia Tree Lighting
Friday, November 28 | 6:00-6:30PM
City Square Park, Waconia
Volunteer Time Slots: 4:45-5:30PM & 6:30-7:00PM
We are looking for volunteers to help with the community favorite Waconia Tree Lighting in City Square Park. The time commitment is minimal. Can you help? Click the button below to sign up.
- Setup
- Cleanup
- Bring your fire pit to City Square Park
| |
|
Waconia Chamber Holiday Social
Monday, December 8 | 5-8:00PM
Schram Vineyards
8785 Airport Rd, Waconia
Celebrate the season with your Chamber friends at the beautiful Schram Vineyards! Enjoy an evening filled with holiday cheer, great company, delicious food, and local wine. This is a wonderful opportunity to relax, connect, and celebrate another successful year together. Guests and spouses are welcome to join in the festivities!
Cost: $50/person
Includes: drink ticket, pizza & salad
RSVP by Monday, December 1. We can't wait to celebrate with you!
| | Chamber Calendar - November | | |
NOVEMBER 4 B.E.N.-Manufacturing & Trades, 7AM @Waconia High School
NOVEMBER 4 Chamber Advantage, 10-11:30AM @Waconia Chamber
NOVEMBER 6 Coffee Connection, 7:30-9:00AM @Shape It Up Fitness
NOVEMBER 8 D.E.A.R, 9-4:00PM | All over Waconia
NOVEMBER 10 Women's Connect, 11:30-1:00PM @The Otto Apartments
NOVEMBER 13 Retail Committee Meeting, 9-10:00AM @Waconia Chamber
NOVEMBER 20 Ambassadors, 8:45AM @Chamber Office
NOVEMBER 20 Chamber Luncheon, 11:30-1:00PM @
NOVEMBER 28 Tree Lighting, 6-6:30PM @City Square Park
NOVEMBER 29 Small Business Saturday
| | |
STAY CONNECTED
@DestinationWaconia
| |
Friday Facts is a publication of the Waconia Chamber of Commerce
952-442-5812
| | | | |
