Business Spotlight: A Different Kind of Hearing Care: Harmony Audiology Puts People, Connection & Choice First

Local Spotlight brought to you by Kate Ledbetter, DestinationShoreline.com

 
A Different Kind of Hearing Care: Harmony Audiology Puts People, Connection & Choice First
 
Hearing healthcare is about more than what happens during a hearing test, it can shape communication, relationships, confidence, and quality of life. Newly opened in neighboring Mountlake Terrace, Harmony Audiology is reimagining the experience with a people-first approach centered on compassion, inclusivity, patient autonomy, and evidence-based care. From hearing loss and tinnitus to specialized support for musicians, Deaf and neurodivergent individuals, the owner-operated practice is creating a place where patients feel heard before they're ever tested.
 
Q & A with Harmony Audiology
 
Q: How long have you been in business?
A: We're brand new to the community! We soft-launched clinical care in July 2026 and are celebrating our Grand Opening the week of August 17-21. Our ribbon cutting ceremony is Friday, August 21st at 10:00 AM. General public welcome to enjoy tours and refreshments at that time. (Registration requested.)
 
Q: What inspired you to start your business?
A: Harmony Audiology was founded out of a deep desire to reimagine what hearing healthcare can—and should—look like. After years of working in traditional clinical settings, our founders saw a need for a practice that goes beyond the basics: one that centers compassion, gold standard practices, inclusivity, and patient autonomy at every level of care.
 
We created Harmony Audiology to fill the gaps often left by conventional models—by offering culturally competent services for Deaf and neurodivergent individuals, protective and restorative care for musicians, and emotionally supportive guidance for those living with tinnitus or age-related hearing loss. We believe that everyone deserves access to meaningful, respectful, and personalized care—regardless of background, communication style, or socioeconomic status.
 
Our mission is to create a space where patients feel heard before they are tested, where treatment is collaborative, and where hearing health is a gateway to deeper connection, confidence, and quality of life.
 
Q: What service does your business provide for our community?
A: Professional evaluation and management of challenges with communication and quality of life related to hearing loss, tinnitus and other conditions of the auditory system.
 
Q: What has been your proudest moment in business so far?
A: It's hard to name one proudest moment! As we approach our Grand Opening, there are so many moments of realizing how far we've come and how much we've accomplished. For one, it has felt really affirming to welcome longtime patients of ours from all over the greater Seattle area into our own clinic space.
 
Q: How do you approach customer service, and what sets you apart?
A: We believe hearing healthcare should be centered on people, and we are weary of its commodification.
 
Individuals and families navigating hearing and communication challenges deserve (1) an accurate assessment, (2) clear and transparent communication about results, recommendations, alternatives, and expected outcomes, and (3) respect and support for the decisions they make.
 
Our model is designed to put these principles first. Because our services are not driven by sales incentives, our focus can remain where it belongs: on understanding each patient’s needs, providing thoughtful and unbiased recommendations, and helping individuals and families make informed decisions that are right for them.
 
We believe this approach creates a more trusted, personalized experience, and ultimately better supports the people we have the privilege to serve.
 
Q: How does your business support or give back to the local community?
A: Individuals needing our services who are experiencing significant financial hardship or other access barriers may be eligible for low-cost or no-cost evaluation services and consultations, and are invited to inquire about financial support from our local and state partners or from our internally-funded program for free or reduced-cost hearing assistive technology (i.e., hearing aids, accessories, AAC, etc.)
 
Q: What future plans or goals do you have for your business?
A: We seek to grow more deeply embedded in the local community. We have no intention to expand beyond the capacity of our owner-operator team and single office. We seek to sustain our modest lives in this beautiful neck of the woods, and to invest capital directly back into the local communities that sustain us. Service to others is at the heart of every material and moral decision we make.
 
Q: What’s your next upcoming event?
A: Harmony Audiology Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting Ceremony - August 21st @ 10:00 AM - 21907 64th Ave W, Suite 100, Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043
Connect with Harmony Audiology
 
Harmony Audiology
21907 64th Ave W, Suite 100
Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043
206-880-7333
www.HarmonyAuD.com
tyler.ellis@harmonyaud.com
Facebook: Harmony Audiology

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Business Spotlight: Spain Orthodontics, Building Healthier Smiles in Shoreline

Local Spotlight brought to you by Kate Ledbetter, DestinationShoreline.com

 
Spain Orthodontics, Building Healthier Smiles in Shoreline
 
A great smile can build confidence, but at Spain Orthodontics, the focus goes well beyond appearances. For the past 10 years, Dr. Spain has been providing personalized orthodontic care in Shoreline, offering braces, clear aligners, early treatment, airway-focused orthodontics, retainers, and more. With an emphasis on education rather than sales, the small, community-focused practice aims to make orthodontic care approachable, personal, and accessible for kids, teens, and adults.
 
Q & A with Spain Orthodontics
 
Q: How long have you been in business?
A: 10 years
 
Q: What inspired you to start your business?
A: I had a part-time job with my family dentist as a teenager, and I got to watch, over and over, how much a healthy smile changed the way someone carried themselves. Somebody actually listened to people in that office, and that stuck with me. I loved science and math (and music), so it all came together. I chose orthodontics specifically because it makes teeth healthier by working with the natural tooth instead of grinding down healthy tooth structure. Opening my own small practice let me do it the way I believe in — treating the whole person, at their pace.
 
Q: What service does your business provide for our community?
A: Metal and clear braces, Invisalign (clear aligners) for kids, teens, and adults, and early treatment for little ones (we like to see kids around age 7 for a first look). We also do airway-focused orthodontics, retainers, and nightguards. Everything starts with a free, no-pressure consultation where we take a tour of your mouth together to see how we can help. We never want cost to stand in the way of getting you the care you need so we offer easy no interest financing and flexible monthly payments to make it affordable for any budget.
 
Q: What do you love the most about Shoreline?
A: Honestly, it's that Shoreline feels like a small town wearing a big city's coat. You've got Seattle right there, but here people still wave, still know their neighbors, still run into each other at the grocery store. I'm a Pacific Northwest kid at heart — I grew up in small-town Idaho — so the trees, the water down at Richmond Beach, the easygoing pace, all of it feels like home. And the people are genuinely warm.
 
Q: Why is your business based in Shoreline?
A: I've been straightening smiles here for over a decade, and I stayed because this is exactly the kind of community I wanted to build a life in. Orthodontics is a long relationship — I might see a kid from age 7 all the way through their teens — so you want to plant roots somewhere you can watch people grow up. Shoreline sits right in the middle of the families I care for in Lake Forest Park, Edmonds, Mountlake Terrace, Lynnwood, and Kenmore, and it's got that neighborly feel that fits how I like to practice: small, personal, and unhurried.
 
Q: What’s one thing you wish your customers knew about you but never ask?
A: That orthodontics is really a health service, not just a cosmetic one. People come in thinking "straight teeth for the photos," and that's great — but straight teeth are also easier to keep clean, a good bite means less wear and fewer headaches down the road, and how you breathe and sleep is connected to all of it. I wish more folks knew that's how we think about it here as a health improvement service.
 
Q: What’s inspires you each day?
A: My patients are my purpose. There's a moment when the braces come off and a kid who used to cover their mouth just beams, and it never gets old. I'm also genuinely optimistic about young people; getting to spend my days around that energy is a gift. And the relationships — knowing families by name, hearing how school and soccer are going before we ever talk teeth — that's the part that gets me in the door every morning.
 
Q: How do you approach customer service, and what sets you apart?
A: My whole approach is to educate, not sell. We take a tour of your mouth together and co-discover what's going on, and I'll tell you the real trade-offs, including when a treatment isn't worth it. No pressure, no "this offer expires today," no upselling or pushing someone into a yes they'd later regret. You also see me at every visit, not a different face each time, because we're small and personal on purpose.
 
Q: How does your business support or give back to the local community?
A: I believe access is a form of giving back, so we try to lower the everyday barriers: free consultations, transparent pricing, flexible financing, and bilingual care so Spanish-speaking families feel just as at home. Beyond that, we love getting out in the community for science fairs at local schools to showcase some of our technology, and participating in trunk or treats to get some tooth brushes in the kids' candy haul.
 
Q: At what age should my child first see an orthodontist?
A: Around age 7. Most kids that age don't need anything yet, but it's the perfect time to catch the few things that are much easier to guide early — and the visit is free.
 
Q: Do braces and Invisalign cost the same?
A: At our office, yes. We price them the same on purpose so money never decides your treatment — you choose what actually fits your teeth and your life.
 
Q: Does treatment hurt?
A: More like a sore muscle after a workout than a toothache — a little pressure for a day or two after each adjustment, and then it settles. It shouldn't keep you up at night.
 
Q: Do you speak Spanish?
A: Yes — Dr. Spain and several of his staff are pretty fluent so Spanish-speaking families can talk through everything in their own language.
 
Q: Is orthodontics just cosmetic?
A: Not at all. Straighter teeth are easier to clean, a balanced bite is healthier, and it can even connect to how you breathe and sleep. While the smiles are pretty, we treat it as a health service.
 
Connect with Spain Orthodontics
19929 Ballinger Way NE #201
Shoreline, WA 98155
206-693-3123
www.spainortho.com
braceyourself@spainortho.com
Instagram: @spainortho
Facebook: Spain Orthodontics

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Business Spotlight: A New Destination for Ice Cream in Shoreline: Meet Mammatus Creamery in Ridgecrest

Local Spotlight brought to you by Kate Ledbetter, DestinationShoreline.com

 
A New Destination for Ice Cream in Shoreline: Meet Mammatus Creamery in Ridgecrest
 
The Ice Cream Ridgecrest Was Waiting For: Meet Mammatus Creamery
 
For years, people in Ridgecrest have been saying the same thing: "We need an ice cream shop." This summer, a few local heroes answered the call with a shiny silver ice cream truck! Now parked next to Drumlin in Downtown Ridgecrest Thursday - Sunday 3 PM - 8 PM, Mammatus Creamery is serving artisan soft serve, creative sundaes, and fresh gluten-free waffle cones, creating another gathering place where neighbors can connect, families can celebrate, and everyone can enjoy a little sweet treat close to home.
 
Q & A with Mammatus Creamery
Q: What inspired you to start your business?
A: Everyone in our neighborhood kept saying the same thing: "We need an ice cream shop." So we built one on wheels. Shoreline was in desperate need of ice cream and places for families to hang out, we built this business to make Ridgecrest even more amazing. We also both enjoy making things, being creative and projects. Since Brent is a public school teacher, summers are already a great opportunity to build a seasonal business. But the real answer is simple, we just love making really good ice cream.
 
Q: What service does your business provide for our community?
A: Soft serve ice cream! But really, we wanted to create another reason to walk to Downtown Ridgecrest, run into your neighbors, and hang out for a while. We serve rotating artisan soft serve flavors, sundaes and fresh made gluten-free waffle cones Thursday through Saturday from our shiny silver truck in Ridgecrest.
 
Q: Why is your business based in Shoreline?
A: We live here. Our kids go to school here. Brent teaches here. We walk these streets, shop at these businesses, and know the people in our neighborhood. Shoreline has all these little pockets with their own personality, and Ridgecrest is ours.
 
We didn't want to open a business just anywhere...we wanted to open one here because we know how awesome it is to walk down the street to check out the book store, get a drink at the pub, check out the daily food truck or see a movie at the theater. Soft serve ice cream seemed like the one thing this neighborhood was missing.
 
Q: What’s one thing you wish your customers knew about you but never ask?
A: We're probably thinking about ice cream way more than is reasonable.
Our menu is small on purpose. We keep vanilla, rotate a second soft serve flavor in each week, and build new sundaes constantly. If you haven't been by in a few weeks, there's probably something new. That's what excites us, something different each week, an opportunity to experiment and try new recipes and be creative.
 
Q: What has been your proudest moment in business so far?
A: When people walk up to the window clapping and jumping up and down in excitement because there is ice cream in their neighborhood. Truly. That actually happens most days.
It's also fun to meet people who found us and drove far to come try it out. We had a couple come by last week who drove over an hour because they heard about our soft serve. That felt pretty amazing.
 
Often people say to us that ice cream in Shoreline was their dream, that it's all they ever wished for. It's fun to be that for Ridgecrest.
 
Q: How do you approach customer service, and what sets you apart?
A: Since everyone in the whole world loves ice cream with their whole heart, so it's pretty simple: we just make amazing ice cream. We've generally found that when you hand someone a big swirl of Pistachio with Vanilla, or a huge sundae with fresh baked brownies, or one of our gluten-free fresh waffle cone... it's a pleasant experience for all. That's what guides our approach to customer service.
 
Q: What advice would you give to someone starting a business in Shoreline?
A: We made the decision early on to do this for fun, to do it because we love it. To make something that brings joy to kids, families, neighbors, and friends. We also saw a huge need for ice cream in this area, and in Shoreline in general.
 
For anyone thinking about starting a business, here's our advice: Go to your favorite spot, spin yourself in a circle, and ask yourself, "What's missing?" If it's something you think would make the neighborhood better and you would enjoy sharing with others, then make sure you buy a huge, shiny truck to sell it out of. That seems to be working for us.
 
Q: What future plans or goals do you have for your business?
A: More unique and interesting ice cream.
We want to build this business around the idea that there's always one more idea. Always something new to try with ice cream and something fun for our customers to enjoy. We've found that with quality ingredients and a thoughtful menu, we can build a really fun and successful business.
 
More importantly, we want to create a place where families can gather after a game, celebrate something big or small, and simply spend time with good friends and great neighbors.
 
Q: Where can people find us?
A: Look for the big shiny truck in Downtown Ridgecrest, just next to Drumlin. This is our home base and we are here Thursday-Saturday 3pm-8pm.
Connect with Mammatus Creamery
 
Location: Downtown Ridgecrest, just next to Drumlin, Thursday-Saturday 3 PM - 8 PM.
 Instagram: @mammatuscreamery

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Business Spotlight Luminous Physio - Whole-Body Healing That Helps You Move, Feel & Live Better

Local Spotlight brought to you by Kate Ledbetter, DestinationShoreline.com

 
Luminous Physio: Whole-Body Healing That Helps You Move, Feel & Live Better
 
Helping You Feel Strong, Supported & Confident in Your Body—At Every Stage
 
Healing isn’t just about fixing pain, it’s about feeling heard, supported, and confident in your body again. That’s the philosophy behind Luminous Physio, a Shoreline-based physical therapy practice specializing in pelvic health and whole-body care. After recently relocating from Greenlake, Luminous Physio is bringing its deeply personal, patient-centered approach to the Shoreline community, creating a space where people can show up as they are and get the care they deserve.
 
Q & A with Dr. Sarah Woodward, Luminous Physio
 
Q: How long have you been in business?
A: 5 years!
 
Q: What inspired you to start your business?
A: So many things! The person I had in mind when I started this business was the super busy, perfectionist who was taught to push through pain and dysfunction until they couldn't anymore. With my business, I wanted to create a space for this person to feel safe enough to share the story about their pain, ask any questions (nothing taboo here!), show up messy and frustrated while trying new things, and most importantly be believed and supported despite "looking fine" on the outside.
 
Q: What service does your business provide for our community?
A: We provide expert, whole-body-based orthopaedic and pelvic health physical therapy that helps people reconnect with their bodies and move with confidence whether they are navigating postpartum recovery, persistent pain, or return to peak performance. We support all people over age 13 and specialize in all things related to pelvic health and hypermobility care.
 
Q: What do you love the most about Shoreline?
A: My yard. And all the mid century modern. 
 
Q: Why is your business based in Shoreline?
A: I recently moved my business from Greenlake to Shoreline because Shoreline is where I live. I feel passionate about investing in my own community!
 
Q: What’s one thing you wish your customers knew about you but never ask?
A: My clients ask me everything! 
 
Q: What inspires you each day?
A: Family, trees, music, sunshine.
 
Q: What has been your proudest moment in business so far?
A: One patient brought a video to our session of her friend (who happened to be one of my past patients) explaining how the pelvic floor worked to their whole table of mom friends at a local brewery. My past patient speaking in the video was drawing diagrams and everything. I was so so proud.
 
Q: How do you approach customer service, and what sets you apart?
A: We create real partnerships with our patients and prioritize communication between our clients and providers so that clients feel supported. We are also really good advocates, so if you are having trouble communicating your needs to other providers, we want to help with that! Bodies are complicated, but our medical system shouldn't be.
 
Q: What advice would you give to someone starting a business in Shoreline?
A: My business has only been in Shoreline 6 weeks, but so far I would say: Meet your neighbors, because they are pretty awesome. At least the business owners I have met so far are really welcoming and supportive!
 
Q: How does your business support or give back to the local community?
A: We provide free educational talks on pelvic health topics to community groups every year. If your group is interested in learning about perimenopause, pregnancy/postpartum issues, endometriosis, pelvic pain, hypermobility, or anything related to the spine - give us a call!
 
Q: If you could change one thing about Shoreline, what would it be?
A: More sidewalks. I love being able to walk everywhere.
 
Q: What future plans or goals do you have for your business?
A: To be a trusted resource for clients, their families, and other medical providers. To create a space that prioritizes safety and collaboration in healing and education.
 
Q: What’s your next upcoming event?
A: We are hosting an open house on Saturday, June 13th from 11-2:30pm. Ribbon cutting will be at 11am! There will be a raffle, some free community education, and of course a meet and greet with our team. We would love to meet you!
 
Connect with Luminous Physio
 18528 Firlands Way N, Suite A, Shoreline, WA 98133
 206-590-1020
 luminousphysio.com
 sarah@luminousphysio.com
 Instagram: @luminousphysio

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Business Spotlight: Craft Roasted Coffee in Shoreline

Local Spotlight brought to you by Kate Ledbetter, DestinationShoreline.com

 
Craft Roasted Coffee in Shoreline. Exceptional in Every Cup.
 
Small-Batch Roasting, Big Community Connection in Shoreline
 
There’s something special about a cup of coffee you can count on, fresh, consistent, and made with care. That’s exactly what Orcabay Coffee brings to Shoreline. This local roasting business focuses on simple, honest coffee done right, building trust one batch at a time. With a commitment to quality and a deep appreciation for the Shoreline community, Orcabay Coffee is quickly becoming a go-to for neighbors who value reliability and great flavor in every cup.

With a commitment to quality and a deep appreciation for the Shoreline community, Orcabay Coffee is quickly becoming a favorite among local coffee enthusiasts—whether they’re ordering freshly roasted beans online or picking them up in person at the Shoreline Farmers Market. 

Q & A with Orcabay Coffee
 
Q: How long have you been in business?
A: 2 years
 
Q: What inspired you to start your business?
A: We started our coffee roasting business with a simple goal: to create fresh, honest coffee that people can trust and enjoy every day. After years of working in the food industry, we wanted to build something of our own that focuses on quality, consistency, and care. Coffee felt like the perfect way to connect with people in a meaningful and everyday way.
 
Q: What service does your business provide for our community?
A: We provide freshly roasted, small-batch coffee to our local community. Our focus is on delivering consistent quality and freshness, whether customers are brewing at home or enjoying coffee with friends and family. We also aim to make good coffee more accessible and reliable for our neighbors.
 
Q: What do you love the most about Shoreline?
A: What we love most about Shoreline is the strong sense of community. People genuinely support local businesses, and there’s a welcoming, down-to-earth atmosphere. It’s a place where relationships matter, and that makes running a small business here very meaningful.
 
Q: Why is your business based in Shoreline?
A: We chose Shoreline because it offers a great balance of community, accessibility, and opportunity for small businesses. It’s close to everything, but still feels local and connected. We wanted to grow our business in a place where we could build long-term relationships with our customers.
 
Q: What’s one thing you wish your customers knew about you but never ask?
A: We wish customers knew how much attention goes into every batch of coffee we roast. From selecting beans to roasting and packaging, everything is done with care and intention. Even though it may seem simple, a lot of thought goes into making sure each bag meets our standards.
 
Q: What inspires you each day?
A: What inspires us each day is the process itself—roasting better coffee, improving consistency, and serving our customers reliably. Seeing people come back and enjoy what we make keeps us motivated to keep refining what we do.
 
Q: What has been your proudest moment in business so far?
A: One of our proudest moments has been seeing repeat customers come back and trust our coffee. Building that kind of consistency and reliability from the ground up means a lot to us.
 
Q: How do you approach customer service, and what sets you apart?
A: We focus on consistency, honesty, and simplicity. Our goal is to provide a product that customers can rely on every time. What sets us apart is our attention to detail and our commitment to quality without overcomplicating things.
 
Q: What advice would you give to someone starting a business in Shoreline?
A: Focus on consistency and building trust with the local community. Shoreline is a place where people value reliability and relationships, so taking the time to do things right makes a big difference.
 
Q: How does your business support or give back to the local community?
A: We support the community by providing a reliable local product and by participating in local events whenever possible. We believe that staying connected and accessible is one of the best ways to contribute.
 
Q: If you could change one thing about Shoreline, what would it be?
A: We’d love to see even more opportunities for small local businesses to connect with the community, such as more markets, events, and shared spaces.
 
Q: What future plans or goals do you have for your business?
A: Our goal is to continue growing steadily while maintaining quality and consistency. We plan to expand our local presence, participate in more community events, and make our coffee more accessible to Shoreline residents.
 
Q: What’s your next upcoming event?
A: We’re currently preparing to participate in local markets and community events in Shoreline, and we’re excited to connect with more people in person soon.
 
Q: What makes your coffee different?
A: Our coffee is roasted in small batches with a strong focus on consistency and freshness. We don’t chase trends—we focus on making coffee that people can enjoy every day, with reliable quality they can trust.
 
Connect with Orcabay Coffee
 206-446-6359
 www.orcabaycoffeebeans.com
 Facebook: Orcabay Coffee

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Business Spotlight: Making Complex Clear: Sara McArdle Design Helps Organizations Communicate with Purpose

Local Spotlight brought to you by Kate Ledbetter, DestinationShoreline.com

Making Complex Clear: Sara McArdle Design Helps Organizations Communicate with Purpose

Turning Complex Ideas Into Clear, Impactful Design for Organizations That Matter

Behind every strong nonprofit, healthcare system, or community organization is clear, thoughtful communication, and that’s where Sara McArdle Design comes in. Based in Shoreline’s Ridgecrest neighborhood, Sara partners with organizations doing meaningful work to help them communicate more clearly, consistently, and effectively. Through brand strategy, publication design, and systems thinking, her work goes beyond visuals, helping teams function better and connect more deeply with the people they serve.
 
Q & A with Sara McArdle Design

Q: What inspired you to start your business?

A: I’ve always liked helping organizations make the complex clearer—whether that’s their brand, their publications, or just how they communicate overall. After years of working in-house for nonprofits and healthcare systems, I realized my favorite part wasn’t just designing something new, but building systems that made people’s jobs easier long-term. Freelancing full-time lets me work closely with a wider range of organizations and businesses doing meaningful work, and create campaigns and collateral that are both strategic and well-designed. I especially enjoy supporting those that either don’t have an in-house designer or need extra capacity when their teams are stretched.
 
Q: What service does your business provide for our community?

A: I provide graphic design, brand strategy, and publication and template design for organizations that are actively helping people—healthcare systems, nonprofits, education, unions, and community-focused businesses. That can mean annual reports, newsletters, brand refreshes, event campaigns, or helping teams organize and strengthen the materials they already have so they work better and feel more consistent.
 
Q: What do you love the most about Shoreline?

A: I love how much of a true community it feels. When I lived in Seattle, things often felt more anonymous, but in Shoreline there’s a real sense of connection. The checkers at Ballinger Thriftway recognize me and ask how I’ve been, I know my postal worker, and we know all the neighbors on our block, some well enough that they've come over for dinner. There are also so many community programs that make people feel invested here—from free e-bike programs and tree giveaways to environmental mini-grants and neighborhood improvement programs. If you report an issue with a street or a park, the city actually responds quickly. It feels like a place where people care and where being involved makes a real difference.
 
Q: What has been your proudest moment in business so far?

A: Going full-time with my freelance business in 2025 was a big one. It was a leap, but it felt like the right one. I’ve also been proud to win national healthcare design awards for work I created while supporting Overlake Medical Center & Clinics—especially because those projects directly supported patients, donors, and the broader community, not just the organization itself.
 
Q: How do you approach customer service, and what sets you apart?

A: I try to make the process feel calm, clear, collaborative—and fun! Design projects can feel overwhelming, so I focus on strong communication, realistic timelines, and creating systems that are actually useful—not just pretty. I’m also certified through an International Coaching Federation-accredited coaching program, which helps me facilitate conversations, ask better questions, and get to the root of what clients actually need—both when planning a project and when gathering feedback. The final product isn’t about me; it’s about helping clients see blind spots, find clarity, and create something that truly works for them.
 
Q: What advice would you give to someone starting a business in Shoreline?

A: Start by talking to people. There are some genuinely great networking groups here, and the Shoreline Chamber of Commerce is a great place to start—it makes networking feel much less intimidating and much more like building real relationships. Reconnect with existing contacts, let people know what you do, and say yes to opportunities to attend local events and meet other business owners. A lot of business really is about who you know and who knows you. Confidence usually comes through action, not before it, so don’t wait until you feel completely ready.
 
Q: How does your business support or give back to the local community?

A: A big part of my work is choosing clients whose work directly helps people—healthcare, nonprofits, education, and community programs. I see design as a way to support that by helping them communicate clearly, raise support, and better serve the people they’re trying to reach. I also volunteer my time and skills for community organizations and industry events, and I believe strongly in supporting other local small businesses through referrals, collaboration, and staying involved in the Shoreline community.
 
Q: What future plans or goals do you have for your business?

A: I’d love to keep building long-term relationships with clients who care about people and community impact—nonprofits, healthcare, education, arts and culture, civic organizations, and local businesses doing meaningful work. One of my goals is to grow more ongoing retainer partnerships, where I can function as a trusted creative partner—almost like an extension of a client’s team—supporting them consistently as needs come up without being full-time staff. Helping clients build stronger systems—not just better-looking materials—is already central to how I work, whether that means making their brands clearer, easier to use, or more sustainable long-term. My goal isn’t to become the biggest studio—it’s to build thoughtful work with people who value strong relationships and design that actually solves problems.
 
Connect with Sara McArdle Design
 Shoreline (Ridgecrest area)
 206-657-7412
 www.saramcardledesign.com
 sara@saramcardledesign.com
 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/saramcardle

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Business Spotlight: TAPS Theater

 

Local Spotlight brought to you by Kate Ledbetter, DestinationShoreline.com

TAPS Theater: Bringing Global Stories, Free Workshops & Community to the Shoreline Stage

Bringing Global Stories to the Shoreline Stage Through Community & Creativity

In just one year, TAPS Theater (Turkish American Performers of Seattle) has begun carving out a unique space in Shoreline’s arts scene - bringing people together through theater, improv, and storytelling. As part of the long-standing nonprofit TACAWA, TAPS was created to expand cultural connection through performing arts, offering both performances and accessible opportunities for the community to participate, learn, and create.

Q & A with TAPS Theater

Q: How long have you been in business?

A: TAPS Theater for 1 year - under our nonprofit, TACAWA, for 50 years.

Q: What inspired you to start?

A: TACAWA: Turkish American Association of Washington has STFF (Seattle Turkish) Film Festival, Turkfest, ICFF children's festival, a Turkish school, etc. but nothing on performing arts, so we started TAPS (Turkish American Performers of Seattle) to connect with the larger community through stage arts.

Q: What services do you provide for our community?

A: Theater plays, improv nights, free drama workshops, free emcee training for ICFF, sketch writing and acting.

Q: What do you love the most about Shoreline?

A: That the community is diverse and very welcoming/inclusive.

Q: Why are you based in Shoreline?

A: We work in collaboration with Shoreline Community College Theater.

Q: What’s one thing you wish your customers knew about you but never ask?

A: We are international! We don't only serve the Turkish community but are willing to connect with other cultures!

Q: What inspires you each day?

A: Smiling faces!

Q: What has been your proudest moment in business so far?

A: We were able to put one play, one improv night, one fundraiser, emcee training twice (3 months each) 18 free drama sessions, two appearances at festivals all in the first year of the foundation!

Q: How do you approach customer service, and what sets you apart?

A: We don’t have customers. We have participants and audience (open to everyone) because we're small and just beginning, it is hard to reach out to bigger community without a budget.

Q: What advice would you give to someone starting a business in Shoreline?

A: Connect to organizations like yours that help us promote our events.

Q: How does your business support or give back to the local community?

A: Most of our events are free. For this play, the tickets started from $13 up to $24. But cost is not a barrier, we will give away or offer 20% of all tickets.

Q: If you could change one thing about Shoreline, what would it be?

A: Safety. :)

Q: What future plans or goals do you have for your business?

A: To have an established address/office of our own.

Q: What’s your next upcoming event?

A: I Anatolia

Connect with TAPS Theater

Shoreline, WA

206-673-1127

https://ianatolia.my.canva.site/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/p/DW1rj8dEhud/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1GxbVB8rQ4/

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Business Spotlight: From Compliance to Culture: HR Support That Makes a Difference

Local Spotlight brought to you by Kate Ledbetter, DestinationShoreline.com

 
From Compliance to Culture: HR Support That Makes a Difference
 
Strategic HR Support That Helps Businesses—and People—Thrive

Behind every successful business is a strong foundation of people, culture, and thoughtful leadership. Amy Bolson, Human Resources Consulting brings decades of experience in people operations to businesses of all sizes, helping them navigate everything from compliance to culture with clarity and confidence. Based right here in Shoreline, Amy’s work is rooted in both professional expertise and a deep commitment to community connection.
 
Q & A with Amy Bolson, Human Resources Consulting

Q: How long have you been in business?
A: 3.5 years
 
Q: What inspired you to start your business?
A: After more years in HR than I am willing to admit, I took the opportunity to slow down a bit, work a bit less, and be more strategic with my time, allowing me to volunteer more, care for my health and that of my aging parents. So far, it’s been an amazing ride and I think I will be able to continue doing this long beyond when I would have felt the need to stop working FT. Providing my years of experience in all areas of people operations/human resources with businesses both near and far is so rewarding and I enjoy the relationships built with my clients whether short or long term engagement.
 
Q: What service does your business provide for our community?
A: I offer businesses of any size or industry support with a variety of people operations/human resources including handbooks, compensation programs, compliance, employee & labor relations, benefit program design, workplace culture, staff & leadership development, investigations, project support, etc.
 
Q: Why is your business based in Shoreline?
A: I have lived in Shoreline for over 20 years and love it here. Why would I base my business anywhere else?!
 
Q: How does your business support or give back to the local community?
A: I am an active volunteer with my local neighborhood association board and the Shoreline Chamber of Commerce. Building community and relationships in the city is a top priority for me.
 
Connect with Amy Bolson, Human Resources Consulting
 253-655-7472
 amybolson.com
 amybolson.hr@gmail.com
 LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/amy-bolson-046b0a65
 Facebook: Amy Bolson Human Resources Consulting

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Business Spotlight: A Human Approach to Healing: Shannon Morgan Counseling in Shoreline

Local Spotlight brought to you by Kate Ledbetter, DestinationShoreline.com

 
A Human Approach to Healing: Shannon Morgan Counseling in Shoreline
 
Compassionate Counseling Rooted in Community, Life Experience, and Human Connection
Sometimes the most meaningful businesses begin with a personal calling. After nearly two decades working as a nurse, Shannon Morgan followed a new path, returning to school in midlife to become a therapist and open a counseling practice right here in Shoreline. 

Today, Shannon Morgan Counseling PLLC provides compassionate, in-person counseling services for individuals, couples, and families navigating life’s challenges, with a special focus on parenting, grief, trauma, and the complex connections between physical and emotional health.
 
Q & A with Shannon Morgan Counseling PLLC
Q: How long have you been in business?
A: Since August of 2025
 
Q: What inspired you to start your business?
A: After working as nurse for 17 years and some other life experiences, I realized I wanted to be therapist so off I went to grad school in midlife! After graduating last June with my masters in marriage and family therapy from SPU, I knew I wanted to explore the opportunity of working for myself in a private practice setting close to home so I could serve my community directly.
 
Q: What service does your business provide for our community?
A: My business provides counseling services to individuals 13+, couples, and families of all ages. I have a specific focus on parenting, secondary trauma in helpers, grief and loss, as well as health issues that affect both body and mind- cancer, infertility, postpartum depression/anxiety, and any healthcare related impacts really. My experience as a nurse offers a unique insight into the mind/body connection and I am drawn to the connections between birth, life and death.
 
Q: What do you love the most about Shoreline?
A: I have lived in Shoreline with my family for over 12 years and love it more and more each year. I love the tight knit neighborhood communities, the beautiful parks, and the small town feel despite being super close and convenient to Seattle.
 
Q: Why is your business based in Shoreline?
A: My business is in Shoreline because I live in Shoreline. Why commute somewhere else when there is a diverse community to serve right at my doorstep!
 
Q: What’s one thing you wish your customers knew about you but never ask?
A: Hmm this is an interesting question as a therapist because the point is for me to ask you questions, not the other way around so to be honest I don't have a great answer for this.
 
Q: What inspires you each day?
A: My kids. Parenting is something else!
 
Q: What has been your proudest moment in business so far?
A: Finding an affordable office in town and being able to share that space with another practice. This highlights the friendliness of Shoreline, and the willingness folks have to help each other out.
 
Q: How do you approach customer service, and what sets you apart?
A: I try and just be a human, and I like doing things in person, so I don't offer telehealth because I don't think it's the same experience as sitting with someone in person talking about the hard stuff.
 
Q: What advice would you give to someone starting a business in Shoreline?
A: Be patient but persistent and don't give up if it's slow.
 
Q: How does your business support or give back to the local community?
A: I think counseling is in itself rooted in support and compassion for others. I offer a sliding scale for those who might not be able to pay a full fee to try and make it more accessible.
 
Q: If you could change one thing about Shoreline, what would it be?
A: That it keeps the smaller town vibe despite the urbanization that is happening.
 
Q: What future plans or goals do you have for your business?
A: Currently my goal is to grow and serve more clients, so this is me doing some outreach so that more people know I'm here.
 
Q: What’s your next upcoming event?
A: I don't have any events at this time, but I have openings to see clients midday, some evenings, and Saturday mornings.
 
Q: What's next up on your reading list?
A: The Book of Form and Emptiness by Ruth Ozeki
 
Connect with Shannon Morgan Counseling PLLC
 20011 Ballinger Way NE, Suite 207
Shoreline, WA 98155
 425-512-5884
 www.shannonmorgancounseling.com
 shannon@shannonmorgancounseling.com

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Business Spotlight: How Creative Catapult Coaching Helps People Move Forward

Local Spotlight brought to you by Kate Ledbetter, DestinationShoreline.com

 
From Overwhelm to Momentum: How Creative Catapult Coaching Helps People Move Forward
 
Helping “Smart but Stuck” Adults Move Forward With ADHD-Friendly Tools That Actually Work
 
For many people, productivity advice doesn’t work because it wasn’t designed for the way their brain actually functions. That’s where Creative Catapult Coaching comes in. Founded by Shoreline resident Amy Voros, this coaching practice helps adults, especially creatives, entrepreneurs, and neurodivergent thinkers, build practical systems that make life feel more manageable and sustainable. Through ADHD-informed coaching, Amy works with clients to design tools, routines, and supports that align with real energy levels, real lives, and real goals.
 
Q & A with Creative Catapult Coaching Founder Amy Voros
 
Q: How long have you been in business?
A: 15+ years. Full time since the pandemic, part time before that.
 
Q: What inspired you to start your business?
A: Learning I had ADHD—and realizing I could get paid to ask questions instead of being told to ask fewer. But seriously, I had worked briefly with a coach at work shortly before my diagnosis and thought it was a fascinating profession. Coaching offered a way to combine curiosity, problem solving, and supporting people through real challenges.
 
Q: What service does your business provide for our community?
A: Creative Catapult Coaching provides ADHD-informed coaching for adults, often creatives, entrepreneurs, and “smart but stuck” folks, who want life to feel more doable. The work is both practical and human: we build planning and prioritizing systems and follow-through supports, and we also work with the nervous-system and energy realities that make those systems usable.
 
People leave with tools they can use the same day and a way of working with their brain instead of against it. Clients typically work with me through ongoing 1:1 coaching, deep-dive sessions for a specific challenge, or small-group options.
 
Q: Why is your business based in Shoreline?
A: Because I live here and love connecting with the Shoreline community. 
 
Q: What’s one thing you wish your customers knew about you but never ask?
A: That there are multiple ways to work together, and it doesn’t have to be a huge commitment right away. Some people start with a one-time deep dive or a focused body-doubling-style session to get traction, then decide if ongoing coaching makes sense.
 
Also: my approach isn’t “try harder.” It’s “try different” design supports that match your real life and energy.
 
Q: What has been your proudest moment in business so far?
A: The moments I find most impactful are when I’m looking back with a client and we can actually see the evolution, how much has shifted over time in the way they support themselves, make decisions, and move through their life.
 
On the practical side, I’ve also learned to use the same kinds of supports I help clients build technology, systems, structure, and asking for help so the work stays sustainable.
 
Q: How do you approach customer service, and what sets you apart?
A: I treat coaching like a collaborative design process: we test ideas, gather data, and iterate without shame. I’m warm, direct, and I take seriously the moment when something “works on paper” but fails in real life.
 
What sets me apart is the blend of deep ADHD and executive-function understanding with an operations mindset. We can work with emotions and identity while also building a concrete system you can run week to week.
 
Q: What advice would you give to someone starting a business in Shoreline?
A: It’s hard to start a business—and to keep running one too. Especially if you’re a solopreneur, make sure you’re seeing peers in real life, not just clients or customers.
 
Q: How does your business support or give back to the local community?
A: My work supports the community by helping people function better at home and at work, less overwhelm, fewer dropped balls, and more stability. Many of my clients are caregivers, leaders, creatives, and service providers, so when they’re more resourced, that benefit ripples outward.
 
I also care about strengthening real-life peer support, especially for solopreneurs and neurodivergent folks, so people don’t have to do everything alone.
 
Q: What’s your next upcoming event?
A: I’m currently exploring launching a small group for adults (either in person locally or virtual) focused on practical ADHD-friendly planning and follow-through. If you’re interested, I’d love to collect names for an interest list and share details when it’s ready, likely later this summer or fall.
 
Right now I’m focused on ongoing coaching work and building local connections. I’m always open to collaborating with Shoreline organizations or sharing ADHD-informed tools through workshops, small groups, or community conversations.
 
Connect with Creative Catapult Coaching
 Shoreline, WA
 206-462-5006
 creativecatapultcoach.com
 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/amy-voros
 Facebook: Creative Catapult Coaching
 Instagram: @creativecatapultcoach

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