Taste Summertime At Flavors Unlimited

A bright eyed child enters Flavors Unlimited on a summer afternoon after playing in the river, bouncing with anticipation for his favorite ice cream cone. As Shannon and Andy greet the little boy and his family he impatiently interrupts to tell them exactly what he wants. Shannon and Andy chuckle with his parents and fetch him his treat. Upon receiving his small taste of summertime he smiles up at them as if they have handed him the world! This is what Shannon and Andy Amaya have to look forward to each day when they head into work.

How It Began...

Shannon and Andy had lived in Las Angeles and when the time came for them to take the next step and get married they decided to get married in Forestville Instantly they fell in love with the Russian River area."The air was so clear! It was like I could finally take a deep breath," Shannon explained. A few years later they packed up their belongings and their two children and made their way here to put down roots. Shannon worked in the Creation Salon for years and Andy built his Handyman business. One of the previous owners of Flavors Unlimited had often gone into have her nails done by Shannon and one day mentioned that they were planning on selling their small business on the Russian River.

"We like to hire local kids to work in the shop. This is such a great community and it's just so much fun working here. We get to see people getting a treat before going in the river and after they get out. We get to see the locals and those who are visiting. Really it's just fun!"

The Parlor

Shannon and Andy offer their visitors breakfast, lunch and delicious ice cream treats. They have everything from biscuits and gravy, eggs and bacon to hamburgers and fries or fish and chips! It is a favorite stop for many of the locals, as well as tourists to stop in and get something scrumptious to eat either on their way to or back from the Russian River. The shop features Wild Dairy and Clover Ice Cream which are more local dairies lending to their stance on supporting all local businesses.

View The Flavors Unlimited Menu

The previous owners had done such a wonderful job of creating an inviting atmosphere for people to come and taste what summertime has to offer that Shannon and Andy kept much of the parlor as it was, the only additions were the ones that would complement and enhance the business. They strive to keep the business comfortable, family oriented, and connected to the community.

"The Russian River is beautiful and serene...calming at it's core. We came here from the city and let me tell you this is a place where you can just take a deep breath and enjoy the friendly atmosphere."

The Machine...

"What makes Flavors Unlimited unique is our blending machine. Many people have come in and told us that they heard about our machine and what it can do and they want to physically watch it in action," says Shannon. How it works is first the customer will pick a flavor of ice cream and then choose from the 50+ toppings available. Then the machine will blend it all up so that you have equalized the toppings ensuring you will get toppings in every bite!

What Lies Ahead For Flavors Unlimited?

Shannon and Andy's dream is to go mobile with their business one day. Perhaps a cart that they can take around town on special occasions so that people won't have to walk so far from the center of town to get their delicious treats. One day they even plan on acquiring their own ice cream truck so that they can travel around the Russian River community putting smiles on people's faces and sharing in their joy!

5 Admirable Vacation Rental Management Companies On The Russian River

Vacation Rentals are extremely popular in Sonoma County and especially on the Russian River and many times the people who own them have very demanding lives. They have children, careers, hobbies, friends and family that take up a great deal of their time. In this instance a great idea is to hire a vacation rental management company to do all of the work for you. Here are a few extremely reputable and admirable vacation rental management companies here on the Russian River.

Russian River Vacation Homes

Many of the locals know D&G Equity Management that manages many of the long term rentals in the Russian River area, however did you know that they are actually the parent company of Russian River Vacation Homes? They are known for their rigorous screening process, prompt service and get things done attitude. Their employees work hard to make sure your home is in good hands and that everything is getting done so you don't have to worry about a thing! Laura D. was visiting Guerneville and booked her vacation rental with Russian River Vacation Rentals and was so happy she left this five star review on Yelp:

"Had an excellent time in Guerneville for my birthday weekend, and am glad I booked through Russian river homes! Kate answered all of my questions, and was very nice on the phone. The Great Escape is just how it sounds. It had all the amenities I needed, and a very cool Rec room downstairs. I was a little sad it was not the time of the year to use the canoes. But I was able to float around on the river since we had private access. Would definitely book with them again in the future." ~Laura D. Santa Cruz, CA

 Russian River Escapes

Russian River Escapes is located right on Main Street in Guerneville. Stace and Karen have a real eye for detail and are both really friendly. This is a great company to use to manage your vacation rental because these women put their hearts and souls into their business and it is reflected in the quality of the homes that they manage.

 “Homeowners hire us to take care of their property. Anything from decorating to yard work. We do it all! We market and get them renters. We do it year round. We have houses here and in Dillon Beach. Two really different environments but cross pollinating the areas has been fantastic because if we run out of houses here people will happily go to the beach and visa versa. That’s what we do we try to find people the perfect vacation rental.” ~Stace Jardine

Russian River Getaways

Russian River Getaways is one of the larges and most well known vacation rental management companies on the Russian River. They are extremely friendly and specialize in upscale vacation rental homes. With each and every home that they list they go through the home with the owner and make sure that it is up to their standards so that their visitors know that the home they are getting is in good shape and ready for them. They are a great resource for anyone looking for a good vacation rental management company! Andrew K. left this five star review on Yelp:

"I worked with Julz to rent Arcadia, who was nice and responsive. It was a nice comfortable home and the whole process of renting was smooth. They were very clear about the rules, which we appreciated. The house had a beautiful view and was well located and serene. Would recommend wholeheartedly."~Andrew K. San Francisco, CA

Russian River Rentals

Russian River rentals is a wonderful vacation rental management company that is known for their great customer service and attention to detail. They go above and beyond the call of duty to make sure that their clients have the best experience possible. They will market and book your home and manage the cleaning and any issues that may arise and they do it with a smile. This is a fantastic option if you are looking for a great vacation rental management company.

"It's great working with the team at Russian River Rentals. Obviously the homes say a lot about their owners, but the current team is knowledgable and friendly. The policies are fair and they had great support.  Shout outs to Star and Trini for your help and support."~ Jeremy S. Via Yelp

Behind The Scenes At Barkers Pet Supply

In a world full of corporations and big box companies it is always nice to come across a small town pet store with good old fashion morals that really care about the animals their owners that they supply to! Barker Pet Supply on the Russian River is a place where you can take your pets to enjoy a little pampering or simply make a quick stop on your way home to make sure that you get healthy food and treats for them. I got to take a little peek around and get the scoop on this friendly little shop. Take a look and let us know what your thoughts are in the comments below!

How it started...

The story begins with two extraordinary women Holly Stockon and Karen Young who have been friends for years and have worked hard creating a fun and loving atmosphere for their families. In the early 1980's both women made their way to the Russian River and made this their home. They were among the many who spend years visiting the river only to end up moving here to be among the redwoods along the river. Holly had once owned a pet supply store the "River Wolf" and had all the skills to operate a small business however she had come to a place in her life where spending time with her family had taken a precedence.

One day Holly was out and about in town and ran into Karen who she hadn't seen in years. Among their natural banter, Karen mentioned that she wanted to start a pet supply store and would Holly be interested. Without hesitation, Holly said no and was on her way; but the seed had been planted and she began to think it might not be a bad idea. So it was that a short time later she called Karen up and they hatched their plan. Their homes became filled with pet supplies and soon were spilling over. On May 5, 2015, with the help of their friends, family and the community, the two opened Barkers Pet Supply.

"What inspires me about the Russian River is all of the people who care about it."~Holly Stockon

The Shop

Holly and Karen run the shop with kind hearts, honesty, and lots of laughter. They are the kind of women who care more about your pets and the community and helping people then they care about the money. They have a line of products for dogs and one for cats as well. They believe in paying it forward and really just treating their customers, both the bald and furry ones, with the same kindness they would want to be treated with.

"There is no point in getting up and going to a job every morning to a job that you hate! We get up every morning and we go to a job that we absolutely love. We can't wait to see who is going to walk through the door and who we get to fawn over because we are both animal lovers. I have held everything in here from baby raccoon's to ferrets." ~Holly Stockon

They carry products that they believe in, mostly made in the United States and their pet food is mostly grain free. They are honest about the benefits and precautions about certain treats or food because what works for one animal may not work for another. They are knowledgeable about their products and the ingredients and they will help pet owners to learn to read the labels to make sure that what is in the food is what is best for their animal. They also carry raw frozen treats which are really good for animals. In early fall they order coats and sweaters so that they will be available when the weather starts cooling off and they are there to help pet owners to keep their pets healthy to minimize vet bills.They really like it when the dogs and cats come in and welcome all furry family members in the shop.

Scrub A Dub Dub

One of the things that Karen and Holly wanted to do was have a place where their customers could bring their animals and bathe them without the water flying all over the bathroom and having to clean fur out of the tub and all of the mess that comes with washing a dog or cat at home. They built the dog baths themselves and it is fully equipped with everything that your pet would need to get sparkly clean including three choices of shampoo, conditioner, ear wipes, dryer, towels and more! Customers get Frequent Fido cards so your dogs tenth bath is free. They cost only $12 and all you need to bring is your dog and you leave the mess behind.

"Our philosophy is have a good time, treat people right and give them affordable products."~Holly Stockon

Inspired By River Queen Handmade & Collectibles

In the friendly little town of Guerneville deep in the Russian River sits a sweet little shop where the spirit of the community shines. River Queen Handmade and Collectibles sits right next to the 76 gas station on Main Street. It offers the community and visitors alike the chance to find unique, one of a kind treasures and a friendly chat to go with them.

How it began...

Jilla Gauthier used to take leisurely drives through the Russian River area and right out to the Pacific Coast from Healdsburg for years. She loved the community here in Guerneville and longed to be a part of it. Then the winter of 2014 came and the time was right so Jilla bought a home in our charming little town, loaded up her belongings and moved to the Russian River. It wasn't long before a local shop in town, Sharon's Vintage Emporium, became available. Sharon Sprinkle had decided to sell her shop and everything in it. Jilla was faced with a decision...in the end, she decided to buy the shop and create a place where local artisans could feature their creations and she could meet people from all over the globe and every walk of life. In the spring of 2015 Jilla opened the River Queen Handmade & Collectibles; named after the boat that used to sail up and down the Russian River.

The Shop

River Queen has three different inspirational elements to it. The first is that Jilla and her daughter Geena not only work in harmony assisting guests and expressing genuine interest in their needs, but they also add their own creative aspects to the store with their own handmade items sprinkled among the shelve. Jilla makes natural wood wine stoppers that radiate the feel of the redwoods and her daughter Geena creates modern and unique jewelry with rare elements that she has collected. These two have put their hearts, thoughts, and time into the River Queen and it is glorious to witness such a thing in our community.The second element they offer is handmade products from local artisans such as handmade soaps, jewelry,  handmade locally designed clothing and accessories, and locally made wine barrel furniture. Members of the community are expressing themselves everyday in this shop and visitors just can't get enough of it. The last element is that they offer antiques and collectibles that are great little treasures for anyone visiting or living in the Russian River. "I have had people from all over the world show up in here..." Jilla remarked. "...and I love to ask them where they are from...It's very very interesting the walks of life that come through here and I really enjoy that. What sets my shop apart from other places is that I carry unique and different things that none of the other stores carry in town.

"I don't carry anything that would compete with the other shops.
I don't carry stained glass because of Glass Images and I don't carry vintage clothing because of Seconds First. I love every little store and shop that I have visited here."~Jilla Gauthier

The Russian River Community

I asked these two women what other places in town they liked to visit besides the River Queen and they both started listing all the shops in Guerneville. Everything from art galleries to restaurants and they didn't stop there! When asked what aspects of the Russian River inspire them they both said the Redwoods.

 "I think everyone here in town...we are all of like mind. We all have the same reason why we are here. We like the lifestyle; we like the trees. We like the area, we are all very eclectic in our ways."~Jilla Gauthier

It was clear to me that this community had quickly become their home and that the sand of the Russian River had worked its way into their hearts. Their prediction is that the community will continue to grow in its artistic qualities even though as Geena put it: we are already a "weird artistic melting pot." This was by far one of my favorite descriptions of the Russian River!

Jilla's Message To Visitors

I asked Jilla if she had any advice for someone coming out to the Russian River to visit and this is what she said...

"Put on your walking shoes and be prepared to see some amazing sights and an amazing small town community!"~Jilla Gauthier

Behind The Scenes With Bob Pullum Owner Of The Guerneville Bank Club

Bob Pullum bought the "old bank" last May and opened the Guerneville Bank Club, which has been all the rage on the Russian River since the day they closed escrow on the building...even before they had begun transforming it into the sensation that it is today! The Bank Club has 5 different businesses operating under one roof, which is not uncommon, however they operate with such grace and in perfect synchronicity so that many don't realize that they are not all owned by the same person! This is a unique place that has so much to offer the Russian River area.

How It Began...

Bob grew up in South Carolina where there were two old historical banks that had left to deteriorate and he had always dreamed of someday perhaps reviving one to its original beauty.  He moved to Atlanta to attend advertising school to become an Art Designer. He later moved to the Bay Area and began visiting the Russian River on vacation. His dream of restoring an old bank had been put on the back burner due to the lack of old abandoned historical banks in the city! Then, drawn to the natural beauty and the close proximity to the stunning Pacific Coast, Bob decided that it was time for him to carve out a place of his own here. In 2000 he closed escrow on his very own vacation rental and continued to visit here whenever possible to enjoy the peace and tranquility of the area. Last year Bob was having a drink with a friend of his in San Francisco and his friend happen to mention that the owner of the old bank had passed away, they were having an estate sale, and the bank had been listed for sale. Suddenly his childhood dream had been resurrected and before too long he was the proud owner of the Guerneville Bank Club! Ironically, the Chamber had also been looking into getting the old bank to set up shop in but Bob got it and then ended up joining the Russian River Chamber of Commerce!

"As locals we need to support the local small businesses. Get out and spend time in town. The tourists bring about new and different ideas and business, so come check it out!" ~Bob Pullum

Chile Pies Baking Co.

One of the businesses located within the Guerneville Bank Club is Chile Pies. The absolutely delicious pies that you can have warmed up and served with ice cream while you shop are from none other than Chile Pies Baking Co. This is a company that is based in San Francisco and is owned by the notorious Trevor Logan. Trevor has become an integral part of the Guerneville Bank Club with his gourmet pie! They serve butter crust pies and their pies are filled with the most amazing filling! If you are in town and close to the Bank Club, whether it be rain or shine, stop in and enjoy a delicious piece of pie!

Nimble & Finn's Homemade Ice Cream

Nimble and Finn's is another business in the Guerneville Bank Club that is owned by Jazmin Hooijer and her sister Leandra. Jazmin actually started making ice cream and selling it out of a cart at farmers markets. The ice cream is made with organic dairy from Straus Creamery and they decorate it with local produce, homemade jam, and candy. When the demand for her ice cream continued to increase she and her sister decided to open up a shop, and before long they had become part of the Guerneville Bank Club. We are all so glad that they did! Their unique flavors bring class and intrigue to the Russian River and create a joyful atmosphere within the Bank Club itself!

Commerce Fine Goods

When you enter the Guerneville Bank Club off to the right is Commerce Fine Goods owned and operated by Jared Grellner, an architect, artist and stylist, and Edyta Szyszlo, a photographer and stylist. Their products are one of a kind items ranging from fashion to home decor. They have unique items from small studios and independent creators and each item has been carefully crafted. Stop in and get a gift for someone you know or decorate your home with their curated fine goods.

Russian River Historical Society

The Russian River Historical Society are the gatekeepers to the history of the Russian River and they have a wonderful exhibit located in the Guerneville Bank Club so that you can get back to your roots while you enjoy your ice cream and pie. They were founded in 1983 and have amassed a large collection of historical photos and literature that they keep archived for future generations to enjoy. They go to great lengths to protect the history of the Russian River and teach anyone who wants to learn everything they can about what has happened in the past.

There is actually a fifth space available currently in the Guerneville Bank Club and Bob assured me that they are looking for the perfect business that will fit right in and complete their symbiotic collection of businesses. "The bank is special," he says "because it is about creating an atmosphere that is interactive like a museum, ice cream parlor, and mini-mall all in one. It's great for all ages and there is something for everyone to enjoy...you don't have to spend anything to take a look at the Historical Societies photos and learn something." As the Russian River continues to move into the future and flourish as a destination spot for visitors from the city, the Guerneville Bank Club will also continue to flourish and be here to welcome them as they arrive!

Top 10 Luxury Homes Sold On The Russian River In 2015

There were many homes sold on the Russian River in 2015 but I thought it would be fun to pull out the 10 most expensive and look at the high class side of the Russian River and how much it costs to live in elegance here! Take a look at the properties that sold on the Russian River in 2015 and what they sold for! To learn more about each of these properties visit http://bit.ly/sold-2015-russian-river Information and photos Courtesy of Bay Area Real Estate Information Services, Inc.©

#1 Sold For $2,100,000

22453 Highway 116, Monte Rio, CA 95462 Sold on the Russian River on 8/5/15.  "T his spectacular property consists of 2 separate parcels, 260 acres and 42 acres, of forestland, woodlands & meadows. A modest cabin style home of 3 bed/3 bath sits atop the knoll taking in coastal range views. A nicely established road system winds through the acreage. There is potential to build a dream home with Russian River valley views, harvest-able timber, hunting camp,or planting. With an ACC, there may be 3 parcels totaling 300 acres."~MLS. The Selling agent was David R. Millar.

#2 Sold For $1,762,560

5601 Eastside Rd, Forestville, CA 95436 sold on the Russian River on 6/23/15. "Artfully designed Contemporary residence just 8 miles from downtown Healdsburg. With almost 5 acres in the heart of the Russian River Valley this residence exemplifies the best of indoor & outdoor wine country living. Attention to detail and quality materials are evident throughout the entire property. Gated privacy, southern exposure and a Zen-like year-round pond. Additional space for guests. Includes pool and chicken coop. Rarely available."~MLS.

#3 Sold For $1,500,000

7863 Giusti Rd Forestville, CA 95436 sold on the Russian River on 4/7/15. "Stunning panoramic Mt St Helena views from this sharp, totally remodeled estate home in the Russian River Wine Country! This rare property boasts a fabulous Great Room and Chef's gourmet kitchen, nearly 3000 sq feet of space, & numerous large decks. Expansive, useable grounds & orchard, possibly plantable for Pinot Noir. Two lovely art studio/out-buildings. Gated, end of lane privacy, yet close in. Sit back & relax at this one of a kind property!"~MLS.

#4 Sold For $1,435,000

7561 Covey Rd, Forestville, CA 95436 sold on the Russian River on 7/25/15. "Artfully designed with a sophisticated style that combines classic vintage details with tasteful contemporary design. Organic elements, natural stone and wood, interesting textures and soothing colors blend harmoniously. Beautiful French doors open to tranquil decks and a serene garden patio. Enchanting English style gardens and pathways, room for 2nd unit and pool. The provincial charm of this wine country home defines country!" ~MLS.

#5 Sold For $1,300,000

7200 Giovanetti Rd Forestville, CA 95436 sold on the Russian River on  8/24/15. "Down a private lane along a winter creek with towering Redwoods. Amazing views offered from this gracious home. Beautiful wood and slate finishes compliment the great open & flowing floor plan. Situated in a banana belt, a gardener's heaven. Once the site of a hillside vineyard at the turn-of-the-century. Russian River Appellation. Private guest suite. Separate artist studio. Total privacy, pond, pool, creek, redwoods & magnificent sweeping views."~MLS.

#6 Sold For $1,126,406

5909 Van Keppel Rd, Forestville, CA 95436 sold on the Russian River on 7/6/15. "Single level, 4bd/2.5ba + office, 3135+/- sf main home plus permitted 2nd home w/attached 2 car garage, end of quiet country lane, oak studded 2+ ac, beautiful refinished hardwood floors, open beam vaulted ceilings, bright kitchen w/gas cook top range, decks, spa tub off master, flagstone entry to private inground pool, crushed granite walkways through landscaped grounds, located minutes to Sebastopol, Santa Rosa, Healdsburg." ~MLS.

#7 Sold For $1,100,000

5908 Van Keppel Rd, Forestville, CA 95436 sold on the Russian River on 8/5/15. "Tropical resort meets Hacienda in this exquisite 5 acre Wine Country Retreat. Dramatic gated entry with cobbled drive opens to paradise. This 2 BR/2BA + Den/Office features 1630 sf of open living space. Entertainer's delight w/tropical garden decks, koi pond/waterfalls, tiki hut, fountains & pavilion deck area for large summer fiestas. Green house, raised garden and fruit trees. Barn houses workshop/exercise room. Fully fenced. Room for horses."~MLS.

#8 Sold For $1,100,000

19479 Redwood Dr, Monte Rio, CA 95462 sold on the Russian River on 7/13/15. " Incredible views of the Russian River and Northwood golf course. Mature landscaping, with fantastic decks to enjoy all that is special about this area. Play a round of golf, go for a swim and then enjoy a sauna that is right off the master suite. Don't miss this one!!!"~MLS. The selling agent was David R. Millar.

#9 Sold For $1,052,000

2880 Austin Creek Road Cazadero 95421 sold on the Russian River on 6/16/15. "Breathtaking - One-of-a-Kind - Wine Country Compound on over 3 acres w/ seasonal Creek. Majestic, Memorable & Stunning. A Park-like setting w/ multiple modern structures, view decks & intimate connection to nature. Flawless interiors include polished concrete floors, custom lighting, chef's range & whole room bath's with garden walk-outs. Off the charts Vacation Rental history. Bonus adjacent parcel w/ Cabin & perc also available MLS# 21510915."~MLS.

#10 Sold For $933,000

21008 River Blvd Monte Rio CA 95462 sold on the Russian River on 5/1/15. "This fabulous river front home is the Grande Dame of the Russian River with the grace and charm of yesteryear. Home features spacious rooms, living room with vaulted ceiling & fireplace, kitchen has unique stamped metal ceiling, slate slab countertops, slate floor & updated appliances. Curently operated as a vacation rental. Easy access to the river and just across from the Monte Rio Beach, close to restaurants, coast, wine tasting..."~MLS.