Whether you live in Lake Tahoe, love the area, or are visiting and want to represent the local vibes at home, we have a few recommendations of brands you can buy that are locally owned and support our community.

Rise Designs brings imagery and the Tahoe lifestyle together through creative graphics and comfortable gear. If you're familiar with their designs you'll see them all over the area.

Mike and Marley have been creating unique, Tahoe inspired gear since 2007. They used to screen print in their garage and we would pick up our orders in their kitchen. They've successfully grown their business and expanded into a larger location where they still screen print and, now, embroider their creations and more onto clothing locals love to wear.

The team at Rise mountain bikes, hikes and gets outside to play in Tahoe. They are supporters of the Tahoe Area Mountain Bike Association and the Sierra Avalanche Center. They've also create logo wear for local businesses including Lake Tahoe Yoga, Coldwater Brewery and Tahoe Bagel Company.

You can visit their website, or check around town at stores like Sports LTD to pick up their most recent creations. Some of their older designs are coveted by locals who knew them when. . .

Lovin' Lake Tahoe brought the shape of the lake as viewed from the sky onto our cars, clothing and water bottles. This simple sticker design can be found throughout the basin and represents our love for the lake. 
 
The brand not only symbolizes a love for the lake, sales of their products benefit support, engage and protect the Tahoe Basin. When you show your love through the purchase of apparel, decor and stickers from Lovin' Lake Tahoe, you're spreading the word.

Visit local shops to pick up a few stickers and grab some gear or go to their website to order from anywhere in the world. Our favorite products are their wine glasses and patches.

We are a women owned business and we love supporting other women owned businesses. Marcela from Fallen Leaf Designs approached us to carry her line of custom designed hats. She's created a brand that represents her and her love for the Lake Tahoe area. The images printed and embroidered on her hats include yoga positions, plants, representations of cycling and, of course, the lake. 

If you're feeling inspired by Tahoe and want to represent a women owned company during your travels, we recommended donning a Fallen Leaf Designs hat. They come in a variety of styles to fit everyone's noggin. You can pick up embroidered hats at local retailers, or purchase printed hats on her website.

While Big Truck may not immediately make you think of Tahoe, this company has been producing high quality, comfortable hats since 2010. You've probably noticed them around town with their signature Big Truck logo.  Beyond ball and trucker caps, they also make beanies, which we all know the value of here in the Tahoe basin area.

Local non-profits and companies in the Tahoe area, as well as Reno have partnered with Big Truck to fundraise and create custom brandwear. They've made their mark by partnering with GoPro, Giro and even the US Ski team.  You can visit their site to check out the variety of styles and images they offer. Check the shops in the Heavenly Village as well as Blue Zone Sports to get your hands on one.

Lake Tahoe General Store has quietly begun selling their merch at local markets and on their Etsy site. Their images are all locally designed and can be ordered on-demand.  Jenna has gone all-in on her love of the area and picks up on the ski and outdoor vibes. The most recognizeable item they carry features the Mountain Chickadee chirping about a cheeseburger. 

Be ready for a conversation when your wearing or carrying their graphics. You may have to answer some questions about the throwback logo or cheeky comment about wildlife.

Our non-profit companies have their own approach to logo-wear. You can show your support for your favorite Tahoe organization by purchasing hats and gear from their sites or by participating in events. 

Organizations including The League to Save Lake Tahoe, Tahoe Rim Trail, Tahoe Wildlife Care and Sierra State Parks Foundation allow you to purchase right on their website. If you want to get a hold of a Tahoe Area Mountain Bike Association hat you'll have to become a member and participate in an event. However, when you sign up, you do get a pair of socks.

Do you have love for a local company that not only makes good gear, but also supports the commjnity? Let us know! We want to know who we can support and how we can share the Tahoe love.

Did you know that it wasn't until 1988 that women could own businesses?
Nineteen Eighty Eight!
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​The surge of business applications in the United States since 2029.  From 2021–2023, entrepreneurs filed 5.2 million "likely employer" applications.  From 2019 to 2023, women-owned businesses’ growth rate outpaced the rate of mens. (https://newsroom.wf.com).  Tahoe is riding the same wave of change. Women are opening businesses that align with their passions and love for their mountain home.

There is no shortage of things to do, places to visit and views to take in at Lake Tahoe.  While you’re doing so, consider supporting the local “women-owned” economy.  Eat, drink, shop and experience Tahoe at our favorite spots that are owned, run and curated by Tahoe local females.

If your day begins with coffee we recommend visiting Cuppa Tahoe.  Sandra has curated a quaint bookstore with coffee, tea, small bites and many surprises.  Warm up with coffee, tea and tasty baked goods while you read a book or enjoy a conversation with current friends or meet new people.

Diane Guth seamlessly blends cuisines of traditional American dishes with Mexican and Italian breakfast and lunch options, offering an extensive variety of delicious plates, making Getaway Cafe’ an alpine-comfort food destination and the perfect spot to fulfill all your brunching goals.

For a warming Autumn lunch head over to Nikki’s Chaat Cafe. This woman owned business is rooted in history.  Palak Shah’s grandparents operated a restaurant in India. It was one-of-a-kind because of its distinct flavor and formula.  Enjoy healthy foods and a welcoming environment as you refuel for the day’s activities.

Grab a mid-day sip and a snack at The Cork and More. This well curated shop and deli boasts a wide variety of local and international wines, delicious cheeses, lovingly built sandwiches and delicious salads. Karla has the difficult task of running the shop and taste testing the wines and cheeses. We trust every selection she makes.

 For your final meal of the day hit up South Lake Brewery’s Libation Lodge or Maria’s Mexican Restaurant. Both have delicious foods, but you’ll have to make the decision between beer and burgers or authentic, fresh Mexican plates. The women who own these restaurants are passionate about Tahoe and offering high quality food experiences.

​Tahoe women are active, adventurous and resilient.  If you choose to join an adventure or experience with one of our women-owned companies you’ll feel welcomed, supported and challenged to try new things.

Awaken with a wander and mindful movement.  Forest Bathing and Flower Wanders are opportunities to engage with nature mindfully. While your guide leads and educates you about the plants, trees and environment that makes Tahoe unique, you’ll get to be up close and personal as you touch, smell and even taste the things that grow in our beautiful basin.  Bliss Experiences is a women-owned wellness company that collaborates with local providers who are passionate about sharing and educating everyone about our unique forests.

There is no bad time to be outside in Lake Tahoe. As the conditions shift we adjust our gear and choose different activities to continue to play outdoors. For experienced explorers, activities on the water never end.  Clearly Tahoe, owned by Kelsey Weist, is an adventure company that allows you a unique view of the water as you paddle clear kayaks.  If you’re more into being on solid ground, ride a bike to the beach or around town to explore other women-owned businesses.

Get cozy on a yoga mat with a few blankets, pillows and the gentle vibrations of crystal singing bowls. There are a variety of offerings of sound healing in the basin. Independent providers can be found offering their services at the yoga studios and wellness centers. We recommend booking a private session with Lake Tahoe Yoga that includes a guided relaxation session followed by a sound bath. They call it “Divine Rest.”

Cruise Lake Tahoe with women owned companies including Lake Tahoe Boat Rides, Tahoe Tastings and Lake Tahoe Bleu Wave cruises.  Sip and soak in the views, cruise the shoreline and snap photos while on a yacht with Lyndsay, Diondra and Laura’s boating companies. These women know how to create memories on the water.

Of course, you’ll have to bring home something to remember your adventures and maybe pick up some gifts for your friends and family. Our female founders have curated collections that match everyone’s taste and spotlight the natural magic of the basin.

At Gaialicious and Wildwood ask Kelly and Lisa about their favorite artisans and crafters. They carry locally sourced items that are made with care and intention by area creators.  You can bring home a new outfit from Savvy, Sidestreet Boutique, Sealed with a Kiss (SWAK) or Malena Boutique.  Each of these shops carries clothing and goods that are selected by Tahoe women who are passionate about helping you find your unique style.

Jana Spano owns On Tahoe Time, a shop that carries Tahoe-focused goods including candles, pictures and unique pieces you can bring home to add a little of the lake to your home decor.  Allow yourself time to wander and peruse, there’s so much to check out in this little shop.

If you’re not into goods, you may want to capture a few Tahoe moments in photos. While selfies are great, a professional photographer will make sure the time, place and light is right for the most perfect snapshots.  There are many options to choose from and everyone has their own perspective and style. Our favorite women photographers are Lauren Lindley, Starscape Studios and Indigo Photography. These women know and love Tahoe which means they can show you secret spots and recommend the best time of day to capture your perfect pose.

​As you plan your Autumn and Winter adventures to Lake Tahoe be sure to consider which women owned businesses you’ll be supporting. Contact them early and book your experiences ahead of time. They’ll be ready and excited to share their passion for Tahoe and love of their business with you.