What do you do with a plant that hates water and most things can’t eat? If you’re Bill MacElroy, you grow 35,000 of them. Monte-Bellaria di California is the largest lavender farm in Northern California, spanning 9.5 acres of planted lavender. Most of the farm’s production focuses on the high-yielding “grosso” variety, a cross between sweet-smelling English lavender and Portuguese spike lavender. The “herbal, camphorous smell” of grosso, with the beeswax gathered on-site, is perfect for blending the farm’s signature essential oils, aromatherapy perfumes, soaps and culinary products. “In aromatherapy, camphor opens the bronchial passages much more effectively than more perfumey lavender,” MacElroy says.

Monte-Bellaria di California, 3518 Bloomfield Rd., Sebastopol,
707-829-2645, Monte-Bellaria.com

If Nina Barry of Marin Hair Transplant had to pick one adjective to describe the hair restoration boutique she runs with guidance from her husband, orthopedic surgeon Dr. Piers Barry, it would be transformative. “My background in mental health gave me insight into how identity is tied to appearance,” Nina says. “Hair isn’t vanity; its visibility. Even in Piers’ practice, he sees patients at their most vulnerable, but with Marin Hair Transplant, we both get to witness transformation right in front of our eyes, not just physically, but emotionally. It’s a powerful reminder of how connected healing and confidence really are. It’s incredibly rewarding.” 

1028 Sir Frances Drake Blvd., Kentfield,
415-651-2208, MarinHairTransplant.com

Five years ago, COVID-19 shuttered people indoors, pausing the flow of the in-person economy. Small businesses worldwide took a hit—but Willow Fish Peterson of Made Local Marketplace in Santa Rosa saw opportunity knock. “The focus of only featuring hyperlocal products has been really important in combating the ‘buy everything on Amazon and have it delivered craze,’” Peterson says. “It creates and fosters community and gives small-batch artisans and makers a physical place to sell and showcase their goods. The hope is for it to continue to grow to be a collaborative project that will feature local growers, manufacturers, makers and retailers.”

Made Local Marketplace, 2421 Magowan Dr, Santa Rosa,
707-583-7667, MadeLocalMarketplace.com

Hospitality values vary across Asian countries, but there are common characteristics: an emphasis on graciousness, attentiveness and genuine care for others, particularly guests. Those principles are at the forefront of the dining experience at Kuro Nami Japanese Kitchen and its next-door sister restaurant, The Baan Thai Cuisine. Born from a passion for Japanese food, Kuro Nami blends tradition and innovation to create a fresh dining experience. “Our team is very passionate about service,” says Jackie Suthon, an owner. “Our customers always will see smiles and receive a warm welcome, and then they’ll be happy from eating our good food.”

Kuro Nami Japanese Kitchen, 69 Center Blvd., San Anselmo,
415-459-6969, KuroNamiMarin.com

The Baan Thai Cuisine, 726 San Anselmo Ave, San Anselmo,
415-457-9470, TheBaanThaiCuisine.com

A dog’s wisdom is without words: how to love unconditionally, how to have fun, how to be patient and loyal. One of the most important lessons dogs and people learn together is how to communicate, explained Alicia Collins of K9 Activity Club. “I truly believe dogs want to do what we want—they just don’t always understand because the way we communicate can be confusing,” Collins says. “Helping to bridge that gap is one of the most powerful things we can do. I love puppies and working with dog parents to help them learn the best ways to manage, guide and raise a well-adjusted puppy. It’s such an important foundation, and being part of that journey is incredibly rewarding.”

K9 Activity Club, 4340 Occidental Rd, Santa Rosa,
707-569-1394, K9ActivityClub.com

Jennifer Klein, a full-service real estate agent with Corcoran Icon Properties, specializes in the distinctive properties of West Sonoma County. With a sharp eye for design and a deep connection to the region’s unique lifestyle, she brings exceptional marketing expertise and a passion for enhancing homes to their fullest potential. “Every property has a story to tell,” she says. “I work to uncover the right updates that highlight a home’s character and appeal.” Jennifer excels at discovering hidden gems, from off-market finds to serene rural estates, helping clients find their ideal home in Sonoma County’s vibrant landscape.

Jennifer Klein, Corcoran Icon Properties,
130 Petaluma Ave., #1C, Sebastopol,
707-536-3019, JenniferKleinRealEstate.com

For many older adults, their home is their most valuable financial asset. Unlocking that equity wisely can be a game-changer, and that’s where trusted guidance matters. As a seasoned Reverse Mortgage Specialist with Mutual of Omaha Mortgage, Homa Rassouli is dedicated to helping homeowners aged 55+ explore secure ways to access their home equity and age in place with dignity. With decades of experience, Homa is known for her compassionate, educational approach. “For the right person, a reverse mortgage can be truly life-changing,” she says. Whether planning for retirement, managing expenses, or simply seeking peace of mind, Homa offers the support to help you make confident decisions.

Homa Rassouli, NMLS #455497.
Mutual of Omaha Mortgage Inc., NMLS #1025894.
7250 Redwood Blvd, Suite 300, Novato,
415-717-4618, HomaRassouli.com, Equal Housing Lender

A joyful buzz fills the air at Headlands Preparatory School as students and teachers work alongside—collaborating, conversing, and discovering the excitement of learning together. There’s a true sense of partnership, with relationships at the heart of it all. “Our teachers bring a wide range of experience and deep content knowledge,” says Executive Director Kristie Moore-Arauz “and what really sets them apart is how they connect with students. The work they do in the classes is nothing short of magical — empowering, inspiring, and truly helping students grow in ways that last far beyond school.” Headlands Prep is a place where both students and teachers are supported, challenged, and able to flourish.

Headlands Preparatory School, 1050 Bridgeway, Sausalito,
415-944-2254, HeadlandsPrep.com

Cindy Acker, cofounder of Hamilton Montessori, believes children should be seen as leaders from the start. “We’re not just preparing children for the world—they are already part of it,” she says. “We’re here to appreciate who they already are.” A longtime educator, cultural leader and playwright, Acker founded Hamilton Montessori to create a space where children of all backgrounds feel valued, capable and connected. Grounded in Montessori principles, the school emphasizes critical thinking, cultural fluency and care for self, others and the environment—preparing students not just for the future, but to shape a better world today.

Hamilton Montessori, 600 Palm Dr., Novato,
415-851-3299, HamiltonMontessori.org

Rebecca Pennington of Energize Hot Yoga is an athlete’s athlete. She’s led wilderness adventures, loves outdoor sports like skiing and mountain biking and taught fitness for years—until a knee injury slowed her down. When she turned to yoga and Pilates, she found more than just pain management; her body’s alignment, posture, balance and strength improved, and her stress levels fell. Pennington realized that yoga and Pilates could help people challenge themselves physically, and become stronger, healthier, happier and stress-free, which is why she opened Energize Hot Yoga—“to create a safe, positive, encouraging, uplifting, inclusive environment for all people.”

Energize Hot Yoga, 522 Wilson St, Santa Rosa, CA,
707-545-9642, EnergizeHotYoga.com