When new folks roll into the shop, we're often asked if the framed glass back wall opens or lifts up. Some are confused or disappointed to find out there is no green "yard" at OAKLAND YARD. We explain how we got our name, a reference to the Oakland Shafter Yard that existed at our location, the end of the line when the electric trains rolled through what is now 420 40th St.

The theme of connecting remains. I was at wedding last weekend - two women celebrating one of those truly 'meant to be' moments and committing to a million more moments together, surrounded by redwoods and friends and family. It got me thinking about the connection I made to one of them, through her brother - and how the same man who so lovingly honored his sister also stood before our and friends and family to give the grand toast at my wedding. I thought of the connection I made to another man who hired me years ago at a shop in Brooklyn, who would eventually be the one to actually marry me and my wife - and play cello for the ceremony - andagree to open a wine shop together that same year.

And OAKLAND YARD continues to be a place of connections. I'm thinking this morning of Alyson of Flower & Forage who did the flower arrangements for the wedding, and has for many others who connected here since. I think of all the celebrations Brendan of Phantom Cellars has DJ'd or played guitar, all of the birthdays Tacos Oscar has catered, the local businesses Cassandra and Seth of Gold & Rust have hosted in their new space. I think of the kind neighbor I met at the shop who gifted me the old rocking horse my daughter is now climbing on. I think of all the children of past and future who have and will mount (and fall from) that tiny wooden horse. I think of all the shoes and the vintage clothing and antique jewelry that will be here this Saturday. All of these unique and lovely things, finding new hands and new homes, a new partner and a new purpose. Someone new to love them.

SATURDAY (6/22) The Artisan Flea Market is ON! Artists and makers, food and fun! Design. Dress. Decor. Delights. Bring your friends and roll on through. Admission s FREE!
Saturday, June 22nd, from 12-5pm. Vendors include Gold & Rust, Mind's Eye Vintage, Flower & Forage, Westwind Succulents, Charlotte Stone, Lucas Ahlstrand, Lauren Tedeschi Ceramics, Same E., Pablo Cristi. Tasty treats from Tacos Oscar and Nokni Oakland. Beverages from Steep Tea Co.! Outdoor Beer and Wine Garden all day and Tasting Flights from Phantome Cellars inside!

TONIGHT: Thursday Night Flights! Greek Whites and Rhone Reds. Your choice! Flights just $12 from 5-9pm and wines by the glass as always!

SUNDAY 6/23: SPARKLING FLIGHTS at OAKLAND YARD... The sun will be out and we'll be popping corks and pouring dry, delightful bubbly from around the globe. Flights 2-6 and wines by the glass until 9pm!

See you soon,

Daniel