Abby Van Ness

Assistant online editor Abby Van Ness grew up in Shoreview and spent much of her time in an ice rink as a figure skater and skating instructor. She moved to Columbia, Missouri in 2002 to study at the University of Missouri School of Journalism. As a Mizzou Tiger, Abby wrote for a local fashion magazine and the city’s daily newspaper. She graduated in 2006 with a degree in magazine journalism and worked as an editorial intern for Mpls.St.Paul Magazine. Since moving back to her home state she has developed a strong appreciation for Twin Cities shopping, arts, and nightlife. Abby contributes regularly to Mpls.St.Paul Magazine's Lifestyle department, writes the weekly shopping e-newsletter Swag, and blogs on Style Parlor.

Recent Articles by Abby Van Ness

Gym Profile: YMCA–Downtown Minneapolis

Dating back to the early twentieth century, the downtown Minneapolis YMCA boasts a rich, ninety-year history of community involvement, family fitness, and healthy living.

Gym Profile: Movement Integration at Studio 107

Home to Gyrokinesis ® and Gyrotonic ® exercises, Studio 107 offers a new way to get fit—without treadmills, stair-steppers, or free weights.

Gym Profile: Koficore Studio

Located in the carriage house of a historic mansion, Koficore Studio offers personalized attention, massage, acupuncture, holistic services, and more.

A Girl's World

Our editors perused the new, two-story American Girl boutique at Mall of America to find the coolest dolls (including old favorites and new characters), accessories, and outfits from the iconic toy company. Check out our slideshow to get a glimpse inside this girl-friendly retail retreat.

Gym Profile: North Loop Fitness

Among various amenities and handheld equipment, North Loop Fitness members also enjoy a complimentary training session in which they’re introduced to Rob Duggan’s signature workout.

Gym Profile: Ivy Spa Club

Personal televisions, luxury locker rooms, and one-on-one attention make this a fitness center you'll never want to leave.

Gym Profile: SweatShop

Customized fitness meets community at SweatShop, which features a unique approach to Pilates.

Cocktail Party

Boasting department store style at a fraction of the price, this modern cocktail party set is ideal for holiday entertaining.

Sheela Namakkal

The "Cupcake Lady" dishes on how she took her passion for baking to the next level.

Got a New Look

Tired of their '60s style, Dona-Mae Rauch and her husband, Christopher Hopkins, said goodbye to their former selves with jaw-dropping make-overs.