To
some, Minnesota is a frozen tundra of snow, hockey players, lumberjacks and lefse. This may be. But beyond the stereotypes, the land of 10,000 lakes is
also producer of products synonymous with quality, authenticity and innovation.
The
North Star state supplies a surprising number of goods and
services people around the world recognize, enjoy and rely on.
Minnetonka
moccasins are an international footwear favorite, J.Crew has been partnering
with Red Wing Boots since 2007, every office depends on Post-it notes and every
college dorm-dweller on Command Adhesive from 3M. General Mills Cheerios is an iconic American breakfast and suburbanites and city dwellers alike buy
everything from Halloween costumes to Keurigs at Target. All in a day, you may shower
with Aveda shampoo, caffeinate at Caribou Coffee, and self-diagnose at
MayoClinic.com.
Faribault
Woolen Mill Co. is a Minnesota-made company with the same strength to swell
beyond state borders. The uniquely self-contained Mill produces wool
blankets, throws and accessories that have been warming generations since 1865.
Between the 1960s and 1990s, the thriving operation produced over half the blankets made in
the U.S. each year. The company closed in 2009 following a failed acquisition,
reopening last year with renewed spirit and the same founding principles of
quality and durability.
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| photo courtesy ampersandshops.com |
With
winter nipping at our heels, I want to wrap myself in the soft merino of
the apple green Veranda Throw. Available in a rainbow of pastels and
punchy sherbet shades, the solid throw is a burst of modernity and cheery
contrast to the gray and hostile weather outside.
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| photo courtesy ampersandshops.com |
On
the other hand, I’m drawn to the classic plaids and buffalo-checked weaves in traditional navy, red and forest green. The cozy blankets fit flawlessly into rustic
furnishings or add shavings of woodsy flair and masculine appeal to contemporary style schemes.
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| photo courtesy ampersandshops.com |
I’m
almost hoping for snowfall soon so I
can hibernate in this soft woolen cocoon until spring. Whether used seasonally
or year-round, the lifetime warranty on these heritage blankets makes them an
investment I’m comfortable making.
Get your arms around the
complete collection at Ampersand at the Galleria in Edina.
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