Sandra VanVoorhis—Personally Speaking

Sandra VanVoorhis of Grapevine Trading Co.

GoLocal Member since 2010

What is your fondest memory of living in Sonoma County?

Every year my daughter and I pack our horses into Old Saw Mill at Lake Sonoma and spend the night under the stars.  One year we encountered a huge injured wild boar on the trail - they can be quite dangerous.  We spent that night huddled under a picnic table just in case!

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

Our diverse breathtaking environment is an incredible gift - I am always in awe and appreciation. I spend alot of time riding our horses in the State and Regional parks - ridgetops, redwoods, wetlands and beaches.  We are very lucky to be granted more and more public access.

What for you defines 'quality of life'?

For me, quality of life is a balance of natural scenic beauty blended with cultural opportunities.  Our temperate weather is certainly a bonus and the abundance of fabulous fresh foods and tasty wines adds to the quality of life.  Like minded citizens with common values adds to the joie de vivre.

What gets you really excited about your business?

Creating gourmet products that are easy to use and time saving for home chefs is what drives me.  Helping my employees save for the future through our profit sharing plan is rewarding.

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

Shrinking margins due to increased costs and the reluctance to raise prices in this challenging economy.

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

That every good and service was provided by a locally owned business.  That growth is managed conscientiously.

What is your favorite quote or motto?

"The harder I work, the luckier I get"

What or who do you most admire in Sonoma County?

I think Jean Schultz is quite admirable for her philanthropy and adventurous spirit.

What brought you to Sonoma County?

I came to Sonoma County in 1989 from San Francisco.  Having been raised in the East Bay, I was eager to get back to a more rural lifestyle.