Mara Shepard—Personally Speaking

Mara Shepard Designer Jewelry

GoLocal Member since 2010

What is your fondest memory of living in Sonoma County?

There are so many, since I've lived here for 38 years.  But my oldest fondest memory is the first time I saw incredible full rainbows with all their vivid colors that we get in the spring and fall. I knew I was in paradise and I never left.

Describe what you experience as the greatest treasure of Sonoma County.

The land, the people who are drawn here, and the incredible entrepreneurial spirit of those people. The land is why Luther Burbank loved Sonoma County so much--he found it to be one of the most unique ecosystems on earth and it is.

What for you defines 'quality of life'?

Freedom of personal expression; access to the arts; healthy and abundant local food choices; good wine!  People need to have their needs met financially, spiritually and in community.  For me, family and friends is the core of my quality of life.

What gets you really excited about your business?

JEWELRY!!! I'm passionate about jewelry, and not just the monetary value of it, the beauty and artistry that jewelry can add to life.  The creative possibilities are endless, and it's exciting to see what each person does in the medium of jewelry work. The happiness the gift of jewelry brings to the recipient and the giver is one of the greatest gifts of being in the jewelry business.  Jewelry celebrates life's most significant moments.

Thinking about your business, what keeps you up at night?

Making sure everybody has what they need: customers, staff, and myself.  And that we are always operating from a position of integrity and service.

If you could have one wish come true for Sonoma County, what would it be?

Enhanced prosperity that leads to greater equity for all Sonoma County residents.  It's pretty wonderful already!

What is your favorite quote or motto?

 "Seize the day!"

What or who do you most admire in Sonoma County?

Charles Schultz for his amazing sense of humor and commitment to community. Luther Burbank for his genius and gifts to agriculture.

What brought you to Sonoma County?

II have traveled the world, and I was finally looking for a wonderful place to settle, have a family and make my home.