Welcome to the last weekend of holiday shopping before it being “last minute.” Especially if it is an online order.

Happy Birthday: Brian

I’m always on the lookout for entrepreneurs who bring people together and build community here in Marin. Even better if I can follow their journey from just an idea and watch it grow over the years. It’s even better than watching Netflix!

Bloom House is a floral design studio that is doing a 6-week pop-up at the beautiful Lark Creek Shops right next to Perry’s. They have been hosting their own workshops, and played a big role in the Winter Wonderland event last weekend, so I reached out to learn more about their story.

Becky Porter is a PR executive who started making bouquets and floral arrangements for friends 10 years ago. It was really a creative outlet and source of joy, not a thriving business yet. But the pandemic had a way of turning up hobbies to 11, and Becky jumped at the chance to freelance with one of the top designers in the Bay Area, Max Gill. She was hooked after seeing these massive floral design projects up close and has traveled the world seeking to learn from other top designers.

You can drop in for instant or pre-ordered bouquets, do a centerpiece or wreath workshop, or shop the other local crafts and vintage gifts they have stocked. Bloom House will only be in that location through the end of the month, but they’ll still be a great local Marin flower source (including weekly subscriptions for home or business)

If you’d like your pet to be considered for Pet of the Week, please fill this out!

They go big for this event all along the waterfront with the best view from Gabrielson Park. Get there early, but the parade starts at 6 and fireworks at 7:15. Free. The Spinnaker also has a viewing ticket and after party option.

Before the lighted boat parade, grab some food and gifts. 10-5, free.

Help replant thousands of ferns and other native understory species in the shade of Roy’s majestic redwood trees. 9am-noon, free registration is required.

This concert is in celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Red Headed Stranger album. Love that song, it tells a story (as do many country songs). 7:30, $40 (or go early to have dinner as well).

The park renovations are done and they are hosting a small celebration. 11am, free.

Join the director of the feature-length documentary film about bats, infectious disease, and women in science. Bring a blanket, popcorn provided. 5-7, $20.

There’s live music, nosh, light up head gear, and even a 40-foot gelt drop (chocolate coins dropped from the fire truck ladder). 3-5, free.

This is a nice down and back along the Sausalito waterfront. And dog friendly! 8:30am, $54 for adults, $30 for kids, $15 for dogs.

This is a big one and includes a free wreathmaking session at 2. 10-4, free. Plus, check out the upcoming Grotto Bathhouse & Sauna while you are there:

“Find your beshert, meet your mensch.” For 25-45 year olds. 7pm.

Former Beach Blanket Babylon cast members will sing and reminisce about their legendary run in SF. 7pm, $40.

If you are jewelry shopping for holidays, check out this San Rafael auction.

There are a few seats left for Saturday’s Frozen with live orchestra by the San Francisco Symphony.

Thanks for reading. If you know of anything interesting going on in Marin, just reply to this email to let us know.

— Allison + Brian