Max and Julia had their wedding anniversary a couple weeks ago. Sweetly enough, while they were in New York celebrating, my wife and I were up near Armstrong Woods that same weekend, at the farm in Guerneville where we were married (by Max!) seven years ago this summer. Walking around there, I could still see all the warm faces and joy all about, family and folks and friends who had come from all over to congregate and celebrate our story.

At my niece's wedding last month, when all the speeches concluded, they took the mic to share some words and thank everyone for being there, for being a part of their story. It was sweet gesture and something I wish I had thought of on our day. As someone who tells a lot of stories, I suppose I was also quite comfortable on our big day listening to others' tales and memories and connections from our pasts to that moment.

But this morning, thinking about the big market party we're hosting this weekend, I was trying to find another relevant story to tell (Hijinks at a shopping mall in my youth? A surprising find at my first flea market?...). But instead of one of my stories, I'd like to extend an invitation to you... to come enjoy the stories of these artisans, vendors, artists and chefs who will be here in a couple days. Their talents elevating each season, their curations ever-evolving, ever new, ever them. We are thrilled for all of these fine folks to be a part of our story and we're delighted to be a part of theirs. Come experience their newest chapters in real time, come enjoy these brilliant characters and their unique treasures.

And if you'll allow me the mic one last moment, I'd like to take a page from my niece's book, and thank you all for coming should you be able to join in the joy. It's quite possible I'll be too happy, to chatty, too stuffed, or too quickly running about to tell you directly. But thank you for coming. I can't wait to see you all around, enjoying the stories, enjoying the celebration. To look back and see your smiling faces in all the photos from such a happy day.

***OAKLAND YARD ARTISAN MARKET: THIS SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 9th! Spread the good word...There will be bubbles, music, oysters and other food, raffles and prizes, as well as a fantastic collection of artists, curators, builders, and culinary wizards... And lots and lots of wine! Tasty treats from XULO & D ARUMA KIOSK, Shuckbuddy Oyster Bar, and SOS Bakeshop! Vendors and artists include PRETTY PENNY CLOTHING I BASALT VINTAGE, The Plant Queen, Pablo Cristi, C.A.Vintage Vintage, Ladha Jewelry, Leopard Lodge, WestWind Succulents, Pothead Ceramics, Like Family. Hope Bryson, and vintage clothing from Homebody Vintage! There will be an outdoor beer and wine garden in the back lot too! See you there:)
--

But first, tonight...THURSDAY NIGHT FLIGHTS: Whites from Savoie & Italian reds
2021 Domaine Labbe Abymes Blanc
2022 André & Michel Quenard Savoie Les Abymes
2020 Franck Peillot Altesse Roussette du Bugey Montagnieu
2020 Il Palazzotto Dolcetto di Diano d'Alba Sori Cristina
2021 Corte Bravi Valpolicella Classico
2018 Terra d'Aligi Tatone Montepulciano d'Abruzzo
Tasting flights $15 from 5-9pm and wines by the glass until 9pm

Cheers,
Daniel