Consider swapping heavier textiles for lighter, more refreshing ones such as rattan—a fan-favorite for spring and summer. Photo: Tanja Hansen Photography
Breathe new life into your indoor and outdoor spaces.
Changing seasons naturally bring a sense of renewal, often seen in how we design and decorate our living spaces to adjust to the forthcoming season’s activities and weather. Spring carries feelings of fresh, clean spaces and often includes pastel or floral undertones.
The dynamic duo at Mama’s Happy, Ashley Houck and Ashley Lindquist, are experts at interior decorating. Neighbors, best friends and now business partners, Houck and Lindquist took over the store when the longtime owner of 15 years stepped down. Now, the Maple Grove shop is full of new life.
Mama’s Happy offers a plethora of interior design options—from refinished furniture and rich paint colors to candles and dinnerware. The store is a one-stop-shop for those looking to add new pieces to their space or seek help for their next project. In addition to the storefront, the duo also offers workshops and tutorials, interior design consultation, custom furniture, organization, staging, party planning and seasonal decorating.
Spring is a natural time to revisit décor and refresh the spaces in which we live. In fact, the process may start as early as January. “After Christmas is over, it’s good to do a huge purge and clean,” Houck says. “It naturally transitions into giving a clear mindset of what you’d like or need.” With a clean slate, so to speak, Houck and Lindquist encourage recycling what you may already have in your inventory. “Small swaps with items like pillows, a picture frame or hardware,” Lindquist says. “Even shifting furniture to provide a fresh perspective.” For those on a budget, reusing timeless staples is key. “You can change up small things without doing a full-blown update. Take items you have and upcycle or reuse them in a new way,” says Lindquist.
Lighter linens are always encouraged once the weather shifts, including blankets and pillows, which Mama’s Happy carries. And although bedding or sheets are unavailable on site, Houck says, “We partner with a lot of companies (including Pottery Barn) and offer to help pick out items for clients.”
Candles can help change up existing spaces as well, with the added dimension of scent, whether coastal, fruity or perhaps masculine. “Candles are a preference,” Lindquist says. “I’ve seen the floral route, which lends itself to the spring season, or a musky, spicy smell like driftwood or amber, which are more year-round.” The team values locally made and woman-owned businesses. “We have a lot of different artists throughout Minnesota that make items for us, such as hand-painted signs and pottery,” Houck says. With inventory constantly changing, customers can find rotating solutions and inspiration.
Mama’s Happy also offers a host of clean-living products, such as essential oils, reusable beeswax food bags and an abundance of live plants for sale. “Incorporating clean living makes a space feel more fresh,” Lindquist says. “We both love plants,” Houck adds. “They purify the air and naturally symbolize clean living and organic.”
For outdoor spaces, it’s all about the ambiance. String lights, candles and lanterns create cozy spaces to wind down or socialize with friends. New planter pots or hanging baskets add a pop of color, and of course, live plants to go with it breathe life into the space. Unique signs and fresh, outdoor rugs spruce up the patio or deck for the season.
Mama’s Happy is more than a vintage shop and gifting boutique. “It’s the perfect blend of old and new,” Houck says. “We have new products and refinished furniture. We give things new life.”
Mama’s Happy
7804 Main St.; 952.324.6580
Facebook: Mama’s Happy
Instagram: @mamashappy
