Our Story
Our Story
Lark + Sparrow has been one of the most exciting and rewarding adventures we've embarked on. It was never just about creating a brand—it was about crafting a vibe, a space that felt like an escape, a community, and a reflection of everything we love.
Did you know there’s actually a Lark Sparrow bird? We didn’t, until we looked it up while dreaming up a name for what would become a wine and beer bar with a gourmet food and vintage market in Old Orcutt, California. But more on that in a bit.
This journey started on a road trip in January 2022. The three of us—Micaela, Johnna, and Starr—flew into Seattle, Washington, looking for inspiration, adventure, and maybe a little reset. That trip didn’t disappoint. For nine days, we drove through Washington, down through Oregon, and back home to California. We made endless stops, laughed until we cried, and somehow found ourselves on a never-ending search for mayo (if you know, you know).
One of the most inspiring places we visited was Port Townsend. It had a vibe that felt like home—community, vision, warmth, and a touch of magic. There, we discovered a tiny bar called Anchor, and something about it struck a chord. It wasn’t just a bar; it was an experience. The little details—the resin table with a miniature baby doll inside, the glitter-painted bathroom, the welcoming atmosphere—made it unforgettable. Right then and there, we knew we wanted to create something just as special in our own town. That was the moment Lark + Sparrow was born.
Now, about the birds. Yes, there is a real Lark Sparrow, but we each chose a bird that resonated with us. For Starr, it was the Lark—symbolizing travel and adventure, something that has always been part of her soul. For Micaela and Johnna, it was the Sparrow—representing home and community, the very heart of what we wanted to create.
When we returned home, we took a leap of faith and signed a lease on the only available space in downtown Old Orcutt. It took almost a year—and plenty of stress, sleepless nights, and determination—to bring this dream to life. Some days we wanted to walk away, and other days we couldn’t wait to open the doors. On December 2, 2022, we finally did it. And now, nearly every person who walks in tells us the same thing: "This place is an escape and a vibe." That’s exactly what we hoped for.
In 2023, Starr stepped away from Lark + Sparrow, passing the torch to us to continue this dream. We are forever grateful to her for being part of the vision, the adventure, and the heart that brought L+S to life. Her passion and creativity helped lay the foundation for what Lark + Sparrow is today.
Thank you for stopping by and being part of our journey. We hope you feel the vibe, the love, and the sense of community we've poured into this space.
See you soon,
Micaela & Johnna