Megan Kellin, Founder of be.Media House and Lake and Company.
In today’s ‘successful entrepreneurial’ world, where success is often measured by wealth or recognition, Megan Kellin truly stands out. The Minnesota native has built a legacy not merely on the foundation of her multiple businesses but also on the relentless pursuit of creating meaningful impact within her community and beyond.
Megan’s journey began with a deep-seated desire to blend business acumen with her passion for storytelling and community engagement. Megan was born and raised in a family of entrepreneurs, both her parents were serial business owners, and she attributes everything to them and her upbringing. After earning her international business degree from the University of Wisconsin-Stout, she set off on an adventure that would eventually lead her to South America and later to the Rocky Mountains. It was in Colorado that Megan founded be.Media House, a creative marketing firm that would set the stage for her future endeavors. This global firm became known for its innovative campaigns and creative solutions, attracting clients from various industries.
However, it was a return to her roots in northern Minnesota that truly ignited Megan’s entrepreneurial spirit. Faced with the challenge of revitalizing a historic, dilapidated hotel, Megan saw an opportunity to create something new and fresh in her hometown. Hotel Rapids was transformed into a modern boutique hotel, complete with local art, music, a French creperie, a bar, and a bistro. This project was more than a business venture; it was a testament to Megan’s vision of blending tradition with contemporary flair, and it became a beloved community hub.
But Megan didn’t stop there. Her love for storytelling and her dedication to the Minnesota region inspired her to launch Lake and Company magazine in 2015. This publication, which began as a local venture, quickly grew into a nationally recognized platform. “There was a need for storytelling in this part of the country,” Megan recalls. “People here have incredible stories, but they're often reluctant to share them. I wanted to change that and continue to inspire.”
The success of Lake and Company paved the way for Lake Bride magazine, focusing on the vibrant wedding market in Minnesota. Both magazines have not only captured the essence of the region but have also become vital conduits for local voices and talents to reach a broader audience.
Each of Megan’s ventures reflects a deep connection to her community and a commitment to enhancing the lives of those around her. Whether it’s through the CoHaus Collective, a co-working space she developed to foster collaboration and creativity, bringing people together in Grand Rapids, or Little Lazy Lodge, an elegant lodge and event retreat she and her family built from the ashes of a burnt-down cabin. Megan’s work is infused with purpose-driven design and passion.
In 2024, Megan’s dedication to inclusivity and support for marginalized communities led her to join the board of directors at Minnesota Diversified Industries (MDI). She shares, “We took guardianship of my brother-in-law, who has Down Syndrome when my mother-in-law passed away. We have always been active in supporting people with disabilities and continue to build support systems with that effort in mind.” Her role at MDI aligns with her broader mission: to create opportunities for all, particularly for individuals with disabilities who deserve meaningful employment and a chance to thrive. Megan has been a part of the entrepreneur fund board for the past eight years, as well as the Itasca Economic Development board within her community, doing what she can to make little changes.
However, Megan’s journey has not been without its challenges. As a mother of three navigating the complexities of entrepreneurship and family life, she has faced trials that would test anyone’s resolve. The COVID-19 pandemic as well as her co-founder being diagnosed with stage four colon cancer in 2022, presented formidable obstacles, causing setbacks in many of her businesses. Yet, true to her resilient nature, Megan adapted, rebuilt, and continued to forge ahead.
Reflecting on her journey, Megan acknowledges the highs and lows with a sense of humility and introspection. “When you start a business, everything is so bright and shiny,” she explains. “But the journey of an entrepreneur is filled with criticism, setbacks, and the need to keep pushing forward, even when the odds are against you. It’s in these challenges that I’ve found strength.”
Through it all, Megan remains deeply committed to her role as a mother of three and an advocate for women in business. She is passionate about creating resources for women who, like her, have had to navigate entrepreneurship without the support they deserve. “There are resources for women in certain situations, but very little for women who have worked their whole lives while raising families and facing unsupportive environments. I want to change that,” she says.
As she looks to the future, Megan remains committed to scaling her ventures, particularly her magazines in conjunction with adventure hospitality, to reach a national audience. Her vision is to expand Lake and Company’s storytelling into other regions, capturing the unique spirit of different parts of the country while staying true to the ethos of travel, kindness, and community that has defined her work.
In an era where the term ‘boss lady’ is often thrown around casually, Megan Kellin exemplifies what it truly means to lead with strength, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to making a difference. Her story is not just about the businesses she has built but about the lives she has touched and the community she continues to uplift. As Megan herself puts it, “I thrive on staying busy and keeping my mind engaged. But at the end of the day, it’s about creating something lasting - something that matters and has a ripple effect for all who make it possible - one venture at a time.”
Media Contact
Name: The Lake and Company Media Team
Email: [email protected]
