Owner Lisa Righter transforms a longtime dream into Pasadena’s award-winning hub for local makers and community connection
When you walk into Sand & Silo Marketplace in Pine Grove Village, it doesn’t feel like you’re stepping into a shop – it feels like you’re stepping into Pasadena itself. Warm, welcoming, creative, and full of heart, the boutique has quickly become a local favorite. This past fall, the community made that official when Sand & Silo was voted “Best Retail Shop” in Real Pasadena’s Best of Pasadena poll.
“I’ve always believed Pasadena needed a space like this,” said Sand & Silo owner Lisa Righter. “A place where local makers could be seen, where people could gather, where stories and creativity could connect.” For Lisa, the dream began long before the storefront opened in October 2021. Raised by two small-business-owner parents and influenced by a grandmother who was an artist, she always felt pulled toward a creative path. For years, she ran Sand & Silo out of her home before finally stepping into a brick-and-mortar space.
Much like its name, Sand & Silo blends two sides of Pasadena life. “Sand represents our Chesapeake Bay lifestyle – relaxed and welcoming,” Lisa explained. “Silo symbolizes gathering, community, and connection.” That mix is reflected throughout the shop, which showcases furniture, décor, jewelry, gifts, apparel, and artwork from local makers – many of whom live right here in town. “Every item in this shop is intentional, accessible, meaningful,” Lisa said. “I know each artist personally – their families, their motivations, their inspirations. That connection makes every piece more than just an item on a shelf.”
Those connections extend beyond the shop’s walls. From pop-up farmers markets and live local music to “learn and create” events, charitable donations, school partnerships, and volunteer efforts, Sand & Silo has woven itself tightly into the fabric of Pasadena life. “We were welcomed with open arms,” she said. “The encouragement and kindness we’ve received… it’s so much more than a storefront. It truly feels like my hometown.”
Ask Lisa what she loves most about running Sand & Silo, and her answer comes effortlessly: the people. “My favorite part of any day is sharing a laugh, a smile, a hug – those genuine connections,” she said. “We know customers have a choice, and we’re so grateful they choose Sand & Silo.”
That gratitude shows in the details – especially around the holidays. This year’s theme, “Vintage Christmas,” has transformed the small boutique into a festive wonderland complete with eight Christmas trees. “It’s a lot of blood, sweat, and tears,” Lisa joked. “But it’s worth it because the holidays here are magical.” And the season is far from over. Sand & Silo is hosting Tuesday evening pop-ups throughout the month, including a Secret Sale With Santa (featuring Christmas carols from the Our Lady Of The Chesapeake choir) on December 16, and its final outdoor Farmers Market of the year on December 21, which will include local farms, bakers, and artisan makers. “It’s everything you need to make your holidays special,” Lisa said. “Grab a pie, a sourdough loaf – even your holiday roast!”
Sand & Silo has evolved significantly since its early days, but Lisa says the mission remains the same: build a place where people feel “happy, inspired, welcomed, and valued.” Her long-term dreams for the shop? “I’d love to keep growing our events, expanding our maker partnerships, and continuing to be a gathering place for Pasadena,” she said. “Whatever the future holds, I just want to stay true to the heart of this community.”
For now, she’s focused on finishing the holiday season strong – and keeping the doors open for neighbors old and new. December hours are Tuesdays from 5-8 p.m.; Wednesday through Saturday from 11–5; and Sundays from 11-3. Whether you’re shopping for a meaningful gift, supporting local makers, or looking for a place that feels a little like home, Sand & Silo Marketplace is proof that creativity and community are alive and thriving in Pasadena.
Sand & Silo Marketplace is located at 8567 Fort Smallwood Road, inside Pine Grove Village Shopping Center in Pasadena.
