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Veronica Medina at Community Clayworks

SYV Makers

Craft & Creativity in the Santa Ynez Valley

Local Talent, Handcrafted Treasures

hHome to an inspiring community of Santa Ynez Valley artisans, vintners, chefs, and creatives whose work reflects both tradition and innovation. From handmade breads and refined pastries to small-batch wines and sustainable farming, every craft tells a story. Meet the locals who shape the valley’s culture—one vintage, one loaf, one perfect cookie at a timein Buellton, Solvang, Los Alamos, Los Olivos, and Santa Ynez.

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See the Makers in Action

Get a behind-the-scenes look at the SYV Makers—from vineyards and bakeries to test kitchens and tasting rooms. Discover what drives their passion and how they’re redefining tradition in The Santa Ynez Valley.

  • Cassidy & Marko Alexandrou

    Cassidy and Marko Alexandrou, owners of Motley Crew Ranch and Marketplace, share their philosophy as farmers and butchers working in the Santa Ynez Valley.

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    Marko Alexandrou

  • Ernst Storm

    His global experiences shaped his winemaking philosophy and nurtured a love for classically made wines. We sat down with Ernst to learn more about his journey and his winemaking style.

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    Ernst Storm

  • Amy Dixon

    Maker Amy Dixon, owner and chief baker of The Baker’s Table in Santa Ynez, opened her artisanal bakery and cafe in 2012, and now serves breakfast, lunch and services over 30 local restaurants with housemade breads. We sat down with Amy to learn more about her and The Baker’s Table.

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    Amy Dixon at Bakers Table

  • Levi Richard

    Maker Levi Richard grew up in Southern California, surrounded by family who lived nearby. All four of his grandparents were wonderful cooks, each of them inspiring him with their personal talents in the kitchen. Today, Chef Levi is the executive pastry chef for the Chumash Casino in Santa Ynez. We sat down with Levi to…

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    Levi Richard Pastry Chef at Chumash

  • Brit Zotovich

    At Cal Poly, she coordinated themed wine events and met her future husband, Ryan. After college, the pair made their way to the Santa Ynez Valley, to pursue their passion for winemaking together. We sat down with Brit to learn more about her journey.

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    Brit Zotovich, winemaker

  • Veronica Medina

    She spent several years teaching ceramics to 6th-12th graders at Trevor Day School—her dream job—before eventually bringing her craft to the Santa Ynez Valley. We sat down with Veronica to learn more about her journey.

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    Veronica Medina at Community Clayworks

  • Christi Belle

    Christi had always dreamed of starting her own creative business yet discovered that her extroverted personality didn’t fit with working solo. By immersing herself in the wine industry’s collaborative community, she finally found a path that felt right.

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    Christi Belle

Mountains and hills in Santa Ynez Valley

Experience the Santa Ynez Valley

Plan Your Trip

The Santa Ynez Valley blends world-class wine, unforgettable culinary experiences, scenic outdoor adventure, and small-town charm across six unique communities. Whether you’re craving a slow morning in a sun-drenched vineyard, a horseback ride through golden hills, or a day of boutique hopping and wood-fired pizza, we’ve got you covered. Start planning with our resources.

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