• Stories Behind Success: FRDM Print Co.

    FRDM Print Co (Freedom Print Company) is more than just a screen-printing business—it’s a passion project turned full-time operation, built on hard work, dedication, and a leap of faith. Owned and operated by Chad and his wife Kimm, FRDM Print Co has become a go-to source for high-quality custom apparel and promotional products for local…

  • Stories Behind Success: Diamond Doll Lashes

    As a devoted wife, mother of five, and grandmother, Sophia understands the delicate balance required to juggle various roles while pursuing her love for beauty and wellness. Running Diamond Dolls has allowed her to merge her artistic flair with meaningful connections, creating a warm and empowering atmosphere where women can feel confident and radiant.

  • Stories Behind Success: Dream Big Mini Farm Sanctuary

    Located just 20 minutes outside of downtown Nevada City, Dream Big Mini Farm Sanctuary is more than your average animal rescue. Founded by Jessyka Stinson, this sanctuary, is dedicated to rescuing farm animals and creating unforgettable experiences for families and children.

  • Stories Behind Success: Kendra Evans Photography

    If you’re looking for a photographer with an exceptional portfolio and who truly captures beauty and magic in every shot, look no further than Kendra Evans. Located in the heart of Historic Nevada City, at 240 Commercial Street Suite D, right above Sushi Q, Kendra’s portrait studio is a welcoming space where memories are captured…

  • Pack Like a Pro: 5 Essential Items for a Hassle-Free Weekend Getaway

    There’s something universally appealing about the idea of a weekend getaway, especially when it’s a long weekend. However, I’ve heard my fair share of travel horror stories, where trips crumbled into chaos due to forgetting essential items. The worst part? Many of these mishaps could have been easily avoided if they had put a little…

  • Stories Behind Success: Sweetland Garden Mercantile

    Located in the heart of North San Juan, Sweetland Garden Mercantile isn’t just a gardening store—it’s a cornerstone of the community. This locally loved store is the embodiment of one woman’s passion for sustainability, community, and the beauty of gardening. Owned and operated by dedicated local, Darlene, who made her dream of living on the…

  • 5 Valentine’s Day Date Ideas That Won’t Break the Bank

    With Valentine’s Day nearly upon us, couples everywhere are scrambling to find that “perfect” gift. Some go for chocolate, others choose something shiny, but what do you do if you have little to no budget for gifts? With inflation at an all-time high, that’s a real dilemma for a lot of people this year. Love…

  • Stories Behind Success: Elliott’s Blue Collar Plumbing

    When it comes to reliable and affordable plumbing services in Nevada County, Elliott’s Blue Collar Plumbing stands out as a trusted name. Founded by Ben Elliott in 2013, the business is co-owned with Kevin Madsen as Vice President. Rooted in community values and a dedication to fair pricing, Elliott’s provides a range of plumbing services…

  • Stories Behind Success: Mapu Foods

    Mapu Foods is a fresh new culinary gem in Nevada City, owned and operated by Alejo Otano. Originally from Buenos Aires, Argentina, Alejo is a 29-year-old entrepreneur and communications scientist who first came to California in 2019. After years of traveling and exploring, he chose to make Nevada County his permanent home in 2024.

  • Call Log Diaries #8: Frying Pans, Trash Bags, and Tamales

    Nevada County’s call logs continue to deliver a perfect mix of chaos, confusion, and comedy. From frying pan conspiracies to trash bag fashion, here’s a breakdown of this week’s most unforgettable calls.

  • Stories Behind Success: Simply Hair Aveda Salon

    Located just outside the Brunswick Basin, Simply Hair Aveda Salon is a space where creativity, exceptional service, and community come together. Owned and operated by the passionate and dedicated Erica Shifflett, the salon has become a trusted destination for those seeking expert hair care and a welcoming, inclusive environment.

  • Stories Behind Success: Gold Country Wildlife Control

    Serving Nevada County as a trusted mobile service, Gold Country Wildlife Control is a family-owned and operated business run by Dalton and Sydney Stephenson. Rooted in a deep love for the outdoors, their story is one of ingenuity, community, and dedication to humane wildlife solutions.

  • Stories Behind Success: Precision Welding, LLC

    If you venture down Whispering Pines Lane, you’ll find Precision Welding, LLC. Owned and operated by Braden Compton, it’s a trusted name in metalwork well-known for superior craftsmanship, attention to detail, and a dedication to getting the job done right. Precision Welding’s services include everything from small gate repairs to major county contracts.

  • Call Log Diaries #7: PS5 Drama, Apocalypse Talk, and Naked Mysteries

    It’s another round of wild 911 calls from Nevada County, where anything (and everything) can happen. From family disputes over game consoles to FBI requests for tree-hiding trespassers, here’s what kept dispatch busy—and what made us laugh.

  • Stories Behind Success: I M ELEMENT – Holistic Wellness Products

    Nestled in the charming brick building across from the post office in Grass Valley, is a workspace and shop filled with creativity, passion, and earthy inspiration. This is the home of I M ELEMENT, owned by Azreail Duran, an artisan maker devoted to crafting natural wellness products for those seeking a more holistic lifestyle.

  • Stories Behind Success: Treatery – Cottage Bakery

    At the heart of Treatery, a charming cottage bakery, is a story filled with resilience, love, and passion. Owned and operated by Bonny Murphy and her daughter Rowan, Treatery isn’t just about baking delicious treats—it’s about embracing life’s sweet moments and inspiring others to chase their dreams despite life’s challenges.

  • Calling All Nevada County Businesses!

    Do you have 15 minutes to spare? Would you like to see your business showcased to 5,000+ people? If you answered yes, then we need to connect! I’m launching an exciting new collection that spotlights local businesses and what they bring to our community. It’s time to tell your story, share what makes your business…

  • Call Log Diaries #6: Peace Signs, Pantyhose, and Parenting Drama

    This week’s collection of real call logs proves that Nevada County is anything but boring. With rebellious teenagers, odd trail encounters, and surprising backyard finds, here’s what went down—and what you can’t help but laugh about.

  • Separation Anxiety in Babies

    Does your little one burst into tears the moment you walk away? Don’t worry, this is perfectly normal and you’re not alone. It’s called separation anxiety and it’s a tough phase for both parents and babies. Let’s look at when it typically happens, why it occurs, and some ways to help make separations easier for…

  • Exploring the Strange Laws of Nevada County: Quirky Rules You Didn’t Know Existed

    After binge watching Suits over the past few days, my head has been swarming with legal terms. It was an episode that inspired this article in which the main lawyer wins a trial after finding an obscure law in the Municipal Code. So, I took a few hours to read almost the complete Nevada County…