Meet The Home Upgraders

Since 2010, Fargo Monthly has been bringing you positive, community stories and resources and we’ve loved every minute of it.

Now, Fargo Monthly magazine is known as Meet Fargo, but don’t worry—we’re still going to have all of the great content you’ve come to love Fargo Monthly for, however, we are changing our approach ever so slightly. Our new concept will be more people-focused. We always hear feedback that the people are what makes the Fargo-Moorhead community great (which we agree with). So, we decided, why not meet them?

This month, we will kick off our first true effort to do so with our home upgraders issue. This is not a comprehensive issue so if there’s someone you would like to see featured in the future, please reach out to [email protected].

Meet McNeal & Friends

McNeal & Friends is a fine home furnishings boutique and interior design firm, serving clients nationwide in both residential and commercial aspects. They have two locations, one in Big Sky, MT, and the other in Fargo.

Lexi Jordheim: Lexi has her master’s in architecture from NDSU. At McNeal & Friends, she is the lead designer in Fargo. “I do a lot of construction projects and home remodels. Because of my background, I feel like that’s my niche.”

Jayne Wilson: Jayne, a former NDSU graduate, has been with McNeal for 10 years now. At the shop, she focuses on buying, supporting the team, and helping with creative ideas. “I still take on design projects occasionally, but they’re very unique due to my limited time. My priority at the shop is making it look beautiful and curating pieces that help people furnish their homes. I love creating spaces that feel special.”

Sydney Fritz: Sydney also went to NDSU. She has been with McNeal & Friends for about eight and a half years. Originally, she started as an interior designer at the Fargo location and then moved to Big Sky three years ago, where she opened another McNeal & Friends interior design firm. “Now, I’m coming back to Fargo and am proud to be a partner at McNeal & Friends Fargo. I’m an interior designer specializing in both residential and commercial interior design, and I’m also a part owner, alongside Kendall Neal, at both the Big Sky and Fargo locations. It’s an exciting new chapter for us!”

How Can I Help Upgrade Your Home

McNeal & Friends’ 3 Tips For Upgrading Your Home

Invest In Timeless Features
“Focus on upgrades that add long-term value, such as high-quality flooring, cabinetry, or Fixtures. Timeless designs ensure your investment remains relevant and appealing for years to come.”

Create A Cohesive Design
“Ensure that your upgrades complement the existing style of your home. Whether through color Palettes, materials, or design elements, maintaining consistency will create a polished and Harmonious look.”

Work With A Professional
“Collaborating with an interior designer can help you make informed decisions, avoid costly Mistakes, and ensure that your upgrades align with your vision while maximizing the potential of your space.”

A Common Error To Avoid When Upgrading Your Home

“One of the most common mistakes homeowners make when upgrading their home is neglecting to create a cohesive plan before starting. Without a clear vision and detailed plan, upgrades can feel disjointed, or important details like flow, scale, and functionality can be overlooked. As interior designers, we always recommend taking the time to establish a comprehensive design strategy that considers both the big picture and the finer details. This ensures that every decision works harmoniously within the overall aesthetic and purpose of the home.”

Perks Of Working With Us

“One cool perk of working with McNeal on a home remodeling project is the personalized, hands-on approach we bring to the process. We ensure every detail aligns with your lifestyle and vision. From custom furniture you can test in my showroom to detailed renderings that bring your space to life before construction even begins. We make the experience seamless and inspiring, so you feel confident and excited every step of the way.”

New Products We Offer!

“We thoughtfully handpicked a selection of unique, timeless pieces during our recent trip to the annual Atlanta, GA, Market. Inspired by a blend of classic and modern design, we introduced new brands to the Midwest—many of which are exclusively available through McNeal & Friends. These finds reflect a refined yet livable aesthetic that we are excited to share with you!”

4 Things You Didn’t Know About Our Services

Our studio and showroom allow a hands-on experience with custom furniture selections. Before placing an order, you can sit on and interreact with the pieces, ensuring they meet your expectations for comfort, quality, and style.

Our team of experienced interior designers provide tailored guidance of material selections—ranging from flooring and cabinetry to lighting and furnishings, ensuring each element harmonizes with the overall design.

McNeal & friends is fortunate to have an interior architecture team that has the capabilities to aid architects and builders during the homebuilding process, ensuring no detail is missed.

Our interior designers expertise enables us to deliver detailed elevations, renderings, and drawings that seamlessly support both the architect and builder throughout the design and construction process. This ensures that the client has a comprehensive understanding of their project throughout the construction phase.

Get To Know Us!

Our Favorite Spots To Unwind

Sydney: I like to go to the lakes area to enjoy my free time with family and friends and just be outside.

Jayne: I like to go to the lake as well with my family—my two kids, my husband, and my two dogs. We like to do a lot of activities outside and just be with family and friends.

Lexi: I enjoy spending time on my rural farm with my husband and two dogs after a long workday, but I also enjoy the weekends where I can go to town and do some local shopping.

Who We Are Outside Of My Work

Sydney: I like to go skiing in the winter, and golfing in the summer! I am hoping to get into gardening more this spring.

Jayne: I love to host, do all things outside, and I’m especially fond of gardening with my two kids.

Lexi: I am a creative outside of work as well; I love to do crafts and plan fun events for friends and family.

Our Go-to Places For Coffee & Breakfast

Sydney: I would say Nichole’s Fine Pastry because I grew up going there with my grandma. I’ll just get an Americano and whatever little sweet treat is available and looks good.

Jayne: I like Starbucks because it’s just right on my way to work! A hot flat white with vanilla is my go-to.

Lexi: I love grabbing a fun seasonal drink and pastry from Twenty Below’s downtown location!