During their talk, Holly and Paul will share stories and lessons learned from their nearly 40 years of business, including the history of Holly Yashi’s beginnings, growth, innovations and industry developments. They will also detail where the company is now, and how they have been able to keep it local for their entire history. Come see a live demonstration of their signature metal-coloring technique, as well as a short video of how a piece of jewelry is made from start to finish, all under one roof in Arcata.  

Since 1981, local Arcata jewelry company, Holly Yashi, has created jewelry inspired by Humboldt’s beautiful natural surroundings. Arcata native, Holly Hosterman, and longtime local, Paul “Yashi” Lubitz, met shortly after they both graduated from HSU, and their business began when they decided to combine their creative forces. What started as two creative hopefuls tinkering side by side at their kitchen table has since rocketed into an international success story that now employs over 50 people in Arcata and uses cutting edge technology to craft detailed batches of handmade jewelry everyday. After almost 40 years of business, Holly Yashi continues to be grounded in Humboldt’s creative roots. Holly and Paul are happy to call this place home and are thrilled to be making vibrant, inspiring designs that have delighted wearers for decades.