Two Months In
A Thank You and Welcome to Fresh Roots Living
Two months ago, I hit publish on the first Fresh Roots Living newsletter, and honestly, I wasn't sure what to expect. Since then, something beautiful has happened—you've shown up. You've subscribed, shared your stories, and proven that there's a real hunger for homes that feel authentic rather than aspirational.
To everyone who's been here from the beginning and those who've joined along the way: thank you. Your support has turned what started as an idea into a growing community of people who believe home should be a place of peace, not pressure.
For those just discovering us, let me share what Fresh Roots Living is all about.
What We're Building Here
Fresh Roots Living celebrates the art of creating beauty without burden, connection without complication, and homes that nourish the soul without demanding perfection. This isn't about chasing trends or achieving magazine-worthy spaces. It's about crafting homes and moments that reflect who you are—mess, kids, pets, and all.
I'm Cari Ann Carter, and for over 26 years, I've been helping families in the Twin Cities find their dream homes through my real estate team. But my passion extends beyond closing deals. Through my DIY Designer Homestead, I've spent years exploring organic gardening, sustainable living, and creating spaces that spark joy without the stress.
What You'll Find Here
Each week, I share practical tips, honest stories, and a touch of Minnesota charm. We dive into design solutions that work for real life, sustainable living that doesn't require a complete lifestyle overhaul, and entertaining ideas that let you focus on your guests instead of your to-do list.
You might find me sharing how to set a stunning dinner table in under an hour, the best leather furniture for families with kids, or my go-to morning drink that actually tastes good while packing in nutrients. Sometimes I'll take you behind the scenes of transforming a "depressed beige" house into a dream home, or share local Twin Cities gems that inspire my next project.
Why This Matters
After years of helping people create homes they love, I've learned that the most memorable spaces aren't the ones that look like they belong in a catalog. They're the ones that tell your story—the kitchen where you make pancakes on Sunday mornings, the backyard where your kids play, the living room where you actually live.
I started this newsletter because I believe your home should be your sanctuary, not your source of stress. Small, intentional choices can create big, meaningful moments. A well-chosen piece of furniture, a simple ritual, or a garden bed planted with care can transform not just your space, but how you feel in it.
Join the Conversation
Through Substack's comments and notes, we're building a community where we swap ideas, share wins, and support each other through the challenges of creating homes we love. I want to hear about your latest project, your favorite family recipe, or the corner of your house that finally feels just right.
Fresh Roots Living is here for anyone who wants their home to feel calmer, the design enthusiast looking for approachable ideas, and those who have ever felt overwhelmed by the pressure to have it all together. We're growing something real here—a place where authenticity trumps perfection every time.
Ready to dig in? Subscribe to Fresh Roots Living to get my weekly newsletter straight to your inbox. Let's create homes that nourish the soul, one intentional choice at a time.
Here's to fresh roots, cozy homes, and moments that matter.
Cheers,
Cari Ann
P.S. Got a home tip or a favorite recipe? Drop it in the comments—I can't wait to connect!
Cari Ann Carter is a multi-faceted entrepreneur whose passion for sustainable living and design has flourished across several successful ventures. As the creative force behind DIY Designer Homestead, she has cultivated an expanding Instagram following through her authentic home design content, organic gardening expertise, and signature floral arrangements. Her professional foundation rests on the Cari Ann Carter Group, a respected real estate company with 26 years of experience offering comprehensive design, build, and renovation services, as well as property staging and curated home events.
Cari Ann is now expanding her vision with the launch of Fresh Roots Living.