Arts + Culture

Blood, Sweat, & Syrah

A story of grit, friendship, and world-class wine Article by Adam McHugh | Photography by Heather Daenitz/Craft and Cluster The Santa Ynez Valley is perhaps California’s last great wine region where you can make premium wine without a pot of gold. Few winemakers have embraced the role of scrappy underdog as eagerly as Matt McKinney and Justice Massara of McKinney Family Vineyards, two men whose starts in wine began, respectively, in the back of a truck in Puerto Rico and in a tent on Mt...

Arts + Culture

Style with Soul

Where craftsmanship, character, and California cool converge Article by Matt DeMarcus | Photography by Zach Brown/Atlas Imagery In the sun-drenched town of Los Olivos, there's a quiet revolution unfolding in a converted garage on the edge of town right at the corner of Hollister and Nojoqui Street. It's not flashy. It's not chasing trends. But it is getting noticed, for all the right reasons. Los Olivos Outfitters is the kind of place you don’t stumble into—you discover it. And when you do...

Real Estate

Legacy, Leadership, and Luxury

The Brady Group’s Approach to Real Estate in the SYV Article by Sara DeMarcus | Photography by Lena Britt Photography Real estate is a constantly evolving profession, shaped by market trends and economic cycles. Yet, through these shifts, the Brady Group has remained a steadfast name in luxury real estate, adapting with expertise and an unwavering commitment to its core values. At its helm is Micah Brady, a second-generation real estate professional who upholds his family's legacy of...

Life + Culture

Mothers Behind the Magazine

Meet the Women Who Balance Storytelling, Family, and Community with Grace Article by Sara DeMarcus | Photography by Becca Nuss There is something special about a group of families coming together to celebrate motherhood over brunch, and there’s no better place to do so than Roblar. Some were born and raised here, others relocated with their families, and many are part of a unique blend. That same dynamic is reflected in the dedicated contributors to our monthly publication, each bringing their...

Arts + Culture

Timeless Treasures of Santa Ynez

A Curated Collection of Vintage Jewelry, Western Collectibles, and Timeless Craftsmanship in Santa Ynez Article by Matt DeMarcus | Photography by Jessica Maher Nestled in the heart of Santa Ynez, where Old West charm meets modern elegance, Charlotte’s of Santa Ynez is more than a boutique—it’s a curated celebration of history, artistry, and craftsmanship. Owned and thoughtfully assembled by Charlotte herself, the shop has become a destination for discerning collectors, offering an exquisite...

Style + Beauty

A Gentleman’s Guide to Gifting

How Plenty Boutique Takes the Guesswork Out of Mother’s Day Article by Matt DeMarcus | Photography by Becca Nuss Another Mother’s Day is fast approaching, and I know that all of us fathers and sons have everything perfectly planned, as we do every single time. Birthdays, Valentine’s Day, and anniversaries can really add up. We all love celebrating the mother or mother figures in our lives. But sometimes, on that very rare occasion, we have a moment when we may not have planned out as perfectly...

Finance + Legal Services

Pacific HR

The Unsung Investment in Business Growth Article by Sara DeMarcus | Photography by Christian Rodriguez Pacific HR has been the silent force behind countless businesses for over three decades, helping them navigate the complexities of payroll, human resources, compliance, and benefits. Founded in 1989, this woman-owned enterprise has evolved from a payroll and workers’ compensation service provider into a fully integrated HR partner for businesses of all sizes. In an increasingly complex...

Finance + Legal Services

Investing In Your Future

A Caring and Tailored Approach to Wealth Management Article by Brianna Haley | Photography by Matt DeMarcus Leslie Swartwood, a homegrown heroine from the Santa Ynez Valley, takes care of your financial future with her attention to detail and true caring approach. With several years of higher education and practical mentorship, she brings her expertise to her hometown community. When Leslie discusses investments, she genuinely believes in investing in your future and helping you secure it...

Life + Culture

Time Together

Amazing local spots to spend time with your favorite people Article by Matt DeMarcus | Photography by Provided Few things are more rewarding than spending quality time with loved ones. Now that spring is in full bloom, it’s the perfect time to step outside, soak in the valley’s natural beauty, and explore new experiences with family and friends. Whether you're in the mood for a laid-back afternoon or an adventurous outing, here are three fantastic local spots to gather and make lasting...

Home + Design

Investing in Solar

How Action Energy Turns Homeowners into Smart Investors Article by Sara DeMarcus | Photography by Provided For homeowners looking to invest in their property while cutting energy costs, Action Energy provides more than just solar installations—it offers long-term financial benefits. Founded by Jack Martin and Sharon Fritz, alongside business partner Kirk Mueller, Action Energy has grown into a trusted name in the solar industry. With over 40 years of experience in roofing and 15 years...