06/04/2026
On May 31st, I had the privilege of celebrating the 10th anniversary of in Santa Cruz.
I first met Gena, Sea Otter Savvy’s director, in 2014, when the organization was still in its early stages. Over the years, I have been honored to support their work in my own small way.
In January 2023, Gena asked me to bake cookies as gifts for Sea Otter Savvy volunteers. At the time, I wasn’t running a business—I was simply someone who loved baking and often made sea otter-themed treats for fun. Gena knew this, which is why she reached out to me.
To thank the volunteers who dedicate their time and energy to protecting sea otters, I created a cookie tin can inspired by the kelp forest ecosystem, featuring sea otter, sea urchin, and kelp cookies.
That cookie box eventually became the prototype for what is now our Kelp Forest Cookie Box and Kelp Forest Bundle.
On the drive home after delivering those cookies, I had a realization: This is what I want to do.
I love baking. I love seeing people enjoy something I made with my own hands. And if a portion of those sales can help support sea otter conservation, even better. If sea otters can bring people together and create something positive for everyone involved, then everybody wins.
In many ways, Sea Otter Bakehouse exists because of Sea Otter Savvy.
Their work, their passion, and their friendship inspired me to turn an idea into reality. What started as a gift for volunteers became a small business with a mission.
Congratulations on 10 incredible years, Sea Otter Savvy, and thank you for inspiring so many people—including me.
🦦💙
