First, our beloved and former lead barista and marketing maven, Megan Pavek, just got married to her best friend Charlie last week in beautiful Minnesota! While we miss her dearly here in Seattle, her radiant spirit continues to dwell within our Sip and Ship walls, touching not only our team but our shared community in ways that are beyond measure. We are cheering her on from afar as she embarks on this exciting chapter in her life!

In other exciting news, we are thrilled to announce that Caroline Dudley was promoted to Greenwood Sip and Ship Assistant Manager a little over a month ago and she’s already making her mark. Her dedication to service and her passion for connecting with both customers and team members have already begun to make a lasting impact. We are confident that Caroline’s leadership will help us continue to grow and elevate the Sip and Ship experience. Please join in celebrating her well-deserved promotion and the great things to come!

Last but certainly not least, after almost two years of devoted service, Emma Ebert, our head baker, has been promoted to Café Manager. Emma will oversee both stores in partnership with Maddie and Caroline, ensuring the consistency and quality of every delicious sip and pastry you know and love. If you haven’t yet tried her almond-cherry biscotti, or gluten-free matcha cookies, now’s the time—her treats are sure to add a pep to your step as you crush your errands.
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At Sip and Ship, it’s the hustle and heart behind what we do that helps us celebrate milestones, but it’s also what makes your day a little easier. Whether you’re mailing a package, returning an online purchase, or stopping by for a treat, our mission is to add ease and joy to your day. Our team is ready to take the hassle out of your to-do list and make every interaction memorable.

As always, Sip and Ship is more than just a place to get things done—it’s a place to celebrate and uplift, with a community that’s as committed to you as you are to us. Join us in celebrating these incredible women and the energy they bring to our team and community.

With gratitude,
Team Sip and Ship

Last week, we had the privilege of packing and shipping some truly unique and fascinating items. 

We carefully and custom packed a craftsman wooden hoop, Fedex overnighted frozen blocks of Trident Pollock for pet food production, priority mailed several winners' packets for The Bouldering Project across the country, notarized and DHL shipped a life pension policy to the UK for our lovely new friend Irene—99 years young —isn’t she absolutely radiant?! And, a fun and rare movie prop from “Dune” heading to its new haven in Mexico! It was the tool used to call the sandworm - so cool!

What continues to warm our hearts most are parents and families sending out care packages to college students across the country and the world - who are busy learning and growing far from home.
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These care packages not only contain essentials left behind, but are filled with love and support from their families, in the form of homemade cookies, chocolate bar, favorite sweatshirt, bathrobe or blanket, helping to make the distance feel just a little bit closer. 

Wherever life leads, Team Sip and Ship is here to help bridge those connections and ensure all of your shipments arrive with care.

“The world is changed by your example, not by your opinion.” —Paulo Coelho

At Sip and Ship, we believe in the power of action and leadership by example. Last week, we had the privilege of hosting an incredible private event at our Greenwood location, bringing together women in business to explore how leading with curiosity and courage is the foundation for creating confidence within ourselves and our businesses.

We want to take a moment to extend our deepest thanks to our amazing community of customers for your understanding and support as we closed our doors for this special occasion. Your patience allowed us to welcome a dynamic group of women leaders, who gathered to share, connect, and inspire one another in new ways. 

Coffee and Conversation has become a tremendous opportunity for growth, and this event was no exception. A special thank you goes out to our co-hosts, CoCreateWork, the Sip and Ship team, and our exceptional panelists- Kimfer, Moji, Joy, and Diana—all women in business who bring passion, purpose, and a commitment to excellence in everything they do. Together, they led discussions on how we can continue to elevate our work and ourselves, setting powerful examples for those around us.

We’re deeply grateful to everyone who helped make this event a success and to you, our Sip and Ship community for your continued support. Events like these remind us that community is at the heart of everything we do, and we look forward to sharing more conversations, coffee, and connections in the future.

With appreciation and excitement for what’s to come,

Diana and Your Sip and Ship Team
                                                                         
                                                                              Photo credit to Britanny Kaye Freet of Craft Beauty

Are you ready to end the year on a high note?

We’re thrilled to invite you to our final Coffee and Conversation: Women in Business event of 2024, taking place on September 19th at 8:00 am. This event will be held at Sip & Ship in Greenwood.

Why Attend?
As we approach the last quarter of the year, this session is your chance to address the unique challenges of Q4 and explore effective strategies to build momentum and drive growth. Whether you’re a business owner, entrepreneur, or aspiring leader, this event will offer valuable insights and tools to help you set meaningful goals and make the most of the final months of the year.

Meet Our Incredible Panelists
We’re excited to announce a stellar lineup of panelists who will share their expertise and experiences:

• Diana Naramore, Owner and Chief Visionary Officer of Sip & Ship
• Joy Portella, President and Founding Partner at Minerva Strategies
• Moji Igun, Founder of Blue Daisi Consulting
• Kimfer Flanery-Rye, Founder of Inclusion Equals and Fbomber in Chief of Fbomb Breakfast Club

These women bring a wealth of knowledge from their own journeys and are eager to provide actionable insights to help you navigate your business challenges.

Special Partnership
This event is proudly presented in partnership with:

• LaKita Williams, Founder of CoCreate Work
• Chloe Andersen, Managing Partner of CoCreate Work

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LaKita and Chloe’s collaboration ensures a dynamic and enriching experience for all attendees, with their shared commitment to supporting women in business.

What to Expect

• Engaging Discussions: Dive into the specifics of Q4 challenges and opportunities, and gather strategies to drive growth and success.
• Networking Opportunities: Connect with fellow Seattle-based entrepreneurs and leaders, exchange experiences, and expand your professional network.
• Actionable Insights: Leave with practical tools and strategies to make impactful decisions and create positive change in your business and community.

Important Note
Please be aware that Greenwood will be closed during this event, but we’ve made sure that Sip & Ship will be a vibrant and welcoming venue for our discussion.

Get Your Ticket!
There are still a few seats available, so don’t miss out on this chance to gain valuable insights and network with local leaders. Click here to learn more and secure your spot!

We look forward to seeing you there and helping you finish the year strong!

Adventure awaits, and we’re here to make sure you’re anchored wherever your journey takes you. 
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For 15 years, an incredible family sailed around the world, and Sip and Ship was their trusted home base. Whether you’re setting sail, taking to the road, or simply exploring new horizons, our mailbox rental services ensure you stay connected—no matter where you roam.

From managing your mail, scanning documents, to sending packages to harbors across the globe, we’re here to be your anchor or the wind in your sails. Whether you’re gone for a week or a decade, your mailbox at Sip and Ship ensures you always have a place to call home.

It feels incredible to know that we make a real difference in someone’s day. Whether it’s keeping packages safe from porch pirates, sending out dozens of get-the-vote-out postcards, packing and overnighting a bride’s bouquet for preservation, or returning a lost wallet to its owner in the Philippines—these are the moments that keep the wind in your sails and our mission of service strong. We love what we do —working with awesome customers and partners like you!

We’re thrilled to invite you to a truly magical evening at the BIG Phinneywood ArtWalk on September 13th from 6pm-9pm, and we can't wait to share this special event with you!
 
Meet Grace Gonzalez – A Visionary Artist 
Grace Gonzalez, a talented Mexican-American artist and illustrator based right here in Seattle, will be showcasing her mesmerizing work at the ArtWalk. Grace’s art is a vivid tapestry woven from dreams, mythology, and surreal landscapes. Her use of symbols and animal figures weaves together stories that explore themes of ephemerality, hope, and unity.

Her work invites us all to redefine our perceptions of hope and change, encouraging us to embrace new ways of connecting with one another. We’re excited to see how Grace's unique vision will light up the Phinneywood neighborhood and inspire us all.

 Why You Should Attend 

• Explore Grace’s Art: Dive into a world where dreams and reality intertwine, and discover art that speaks to the heart and soul.
• Support Local Talent: Grace’s work reflects the rich cultural tapestry of our community and offers fresh perspectives on timeless themes.
• Celebrate Together: Enjoy an evening of creativity, connection, and community spirit in the vibrant Phinneywood district.

 Event Details:

• Date: September 13th
• Time: 6pm-9pm
• Location: Phinneywood ArtWalk, Phinney Avenue North

We look forward to sharing this enchanting evening with you and celebrating the extraordinary talent of Grace Gonzalez. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of an inspiring cultural experience!

P.S. September is brimming with exciting events and back-to-school energy!

• Coffee and Conversation with Women in Business: Join us on September 19th at 8am for a dynamic session to lead with confidence and strategize for a strong finish to 2024. Tickets are limited and going fast, so be sure to secure your spot!
• Influence & Ignite Retreat: My friend Sara Dean is hosting a fantastic retreat for women and gender minority business owners on September 26th and 27th. Click here to learn more and reserve your place for this empowering experience.

We hope to see you at one or all of these fantastic events!  

Join Us for Our Final Coffee and Conversation of 2024!
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As we transition from a vibrant summer into the rhythms of back-to-school, work, and the seasonal changes ahead, there's so much to look forward to. We're thrilled to announce our final Coffee and Conversation gathering of 2024 is just around the corner! Join us on September 19th for a special discussion on how to lead with confidence as we embrace the challenges and opportunities this new season brings. Mark your calendars—this is a conversation you won't want to miss!

Over a delicious cup of coffee or tea, we’ll share insights, experiences, and strategies that empower us to lead with strength and authenticity. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just beginning your journey, this conversation promises to be both inspiring and impactful. Join us on Thursday, September 19th at 8am (doors open at 7:30am) at the Greenwood Sip and Ship. 

This will be our last gathering of the year, so be sure to save the date! We can’t wait to see you there for an enriching and uplifting experience. Seats are limited, reserve your spot today!

Looking for something extra fun to do this September? Join us for the annual PhinneyWood Art Walk on September 13-14, featuring the incredible artwork of our former Sip and Ship teammate, Grace Gonzalez. It’s the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in creativity while exploring our vibrant community!

Stay tuned for more details to come. Until then, have a wonderful week ahead!

Sincerely, 

Diana and Team

Get ready to discover incredible deals as we make room for fresh inventory and reimagine our space! Stop by anytime during August 22-25, between 10am-5pm at the Ballard Sip and Ship (and other Ballard neighborhood businesses).

From unique gifts to must-have essentials, everything will be priced to sell. Don’t miss out—these treasures won’t last long! Come for the sale, and stay for a delicious homemade treat that’s sure to make your day even sweeter. See you at Sip and Ship—where great finds and good vibes await!

P.S. Claim your Reusable Cup! Ask our barista team how you can help us make a positive impact towards greener and happier sipping! OKAPI is a pretty cool program and we’re proud to be in partnership with your support! 

We look forward to seeing you this week! 

Good Morning Coffee Lovers!

Exciting news for Seattle’s coffee enthusiasts! To celebrate our partnership with OKAPI Reusables and promote sustainability, we’re thrilled to invite you to Free Coffee Days at both Sip and Ship locations. Here’s your chance to sip delicious coffee on us and learn about our Reusable Cup Program! Not a coffee drinker? No sweat! We have tea, chai, and matcha options available for the same signup credit!

Event Details:

Ballard Sip and Ship
 Monday, August 12th
 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM

Greenwood Sip and Ship
 Saturday, August 17th
 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

What’s in Store:

• Free Coffee: Enjoy a complimentary cup of coffee as you sign up for our Reusable Cup Program.
• Sustainability: Learn how using reusable cups help reduce waste and support our city’s green initiatives.
• Exclusive Perks: Discover the benefits of participating in the program and how you can make a positive impact.

Join us at either Sip and Ship location, grab your free coffee, and take a step toward a more sustainable future. Let’s work together to keep Seattle green and beautiful!

We can’t wait to see you there!

Sincerely,

Diana, Steve, and the Sip and Ship Team

P.S. Bring a friend and share the love for coffee and sustainability!

We hope you’re enjoying the sunshine and savoring every moment of this beautiful summer. We have some delightful updates to share with you from our Sip and Ship family!

​Recently, our team gathered for a wonderful BBQ with no other agenda than to enjoy good food, great company, and the warmth of a summer evening. One of the best ways outside of the shop to relax, reconnect and reinforce our sense of community and cohesiveness.

We’re also thrilled to announce our new partnership with Okapi! To celebrate, we invite you to join us in embracing a more eco-friendly lifestyle. Bring your Okapi cup to Sip and Ship, and we’ll fill it with your favorite beverage. It’s a simple way to enjoy your drink while doing good by reducing single use cups.

Sign up for Okapi here, and let's make a positive impact together!

Thank you for being part of our Sip and Ship family. We look forward to serving you your next favorite drink in your eco-friendly cup and seeing you around our stores soon!\


P.S. Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram at @sipshipshop for more updates and behind-the-scenes glimpses of our Sip and Ship life!

From large freight shipments to fragile art pieces and sentimental family heirlooms.

​Every customer at Sip and Ship is more than just a number. As soon as someone walks through our doors we are eager to hear their story, solve any problem, and connect meaningful ways. We have encountered many unique situations over the years and truly feel like we have seen it all! Part of the magic at Sip and Ship is our ability to go above and beyond to help preserve those tangible items that hold special value.

For example, currently in wedding season we are delighted to assist newlyweds as they ship flower bouquets to be preserved after their special day. As you can imagine, shipping flowers is a delicate art form. A process that makes our hearts flutter with excitement and skip a beat learning about how each love story blooms.

Recently, we were reminiscing about the time we packed up boxes of valuable houseplants. Our shipping counter was covered in bright hues of green, vibrant vines and soft leaves. All of these lovely plants arrived safely to their new home in New York and are thriving there today!

Artists from all over the city trust Sip and Ship to pack and ship their creations. Knowing that we put extra time, attention, and care into every item or project. Families rely on us to keep precious memories safe and secure, with our assurance that their prized keepsakes and mementos will arrive to their destination efficiently. 

Some of our customers have even been faced with the daunting task of transporting large items. Moving home items, distributing estates or large collections of cultural heritage craftsmanship. This year our team was tasked with packing up a bat skeleton, musical instrument, and rocking horse from their grandparent’s childhood, each a true definition of substantial and significant items. Occasionally, we also encounter a hero’s war uniform complete with caps and medals, exquisite Geisha Japanese bone-china lamps, Native American artifacts, and intricate art designs traveling to art galleries and museums across the country.

All of these items are brought to Sip and Ship because we are shipping experts who have established relationships with our customers based on mutual respect and trust. This is what continues to set us apart from our competitors. Now you know, so you don’t have to be just another number at a big box store –because what matters to you, will always matter to us. 

We look forward to helping you tackle your next shipping conundrum, and simpler online returns.

P.S. We are excited to share that the OKAPI reusable cup program is now live in both of our shops! Please take the time to learn more about this amazing initiative and download the app today. Together we can make a positive impact by decreasing waste and protecting our planet. Starting with one small step can make such a big difference over time!
                                                     
​                                                      Written in collaboration by Diana Naramore and Megan Pavek

We are incredibly fortunate to work with such vibrant individuals who pour so much of themselves into their roles at Sip and Ship.
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When it's finally time for them to move on to their next milestone, we stand in utter gratitude for our brief but meaningful time together. We smile, knowing we’ve made an indelible impression on each other, and will forever honor their contributions to our business and to us as humans.


Come by and say hi and farewell to one of the greats, Megan, our Ballard cafe lead and Marketing Maven Megan Pavek. Her last day at Sip and Ship is July 29th as she heads back to her hometown in Minnesota to marry and build a life with her wonderful partner, Charlie and their sweet fur baby, Angie.


As we transition into the heart of summer, this season brings with it renewal and growth, echoing the rhythms of our own lives. At Sip and Ship, we're here to be your reliable mainstay, stitching together all the things that keep our lives moving in the right direction—whether it's sending care packages to your campers, notarizing and mailing travel documents for renewal, tying a ribbon on the perfect hostess gift, or adorning new families with cards scripted with your words of excitement and congratulations. 


PS - Curious about how you can become more effective in your workplace? My dear friend and colleague, Sara Dean, is hosting her Influence & Ignite Retreat for women and gender minority business owners in person in Seattle on September 26th and 27th. It's a fantastic opportunity to grow and connect!  

Because you deserve a delicious, ice-cold beverage during this heatwave! 

No AC? No problem! Stop by Sip and Ship to cool off with a delicious and refreshing ice-cold beverage. This week we want to highlight our seasonal drinks, including some equally exciting options for the non-coffee drinkers. 

1. Strawberry Oat Matcha

Our premium matcha blend pairs perfectly with swirls of sweet strawberry syrup. If you’re wanting less caffeine and more flavor, look no further. Add oat milk and this makes a guilt-free treat and guaranteed smooth sipping. While you’re at it, don’t forget to try one of Sip and Ship’s gluten-free matcha cookies; a brand new recipe that we are so excited to offer!

2. Lavender Lemonade

Stoping at Sip and Ship to purchase stamps or return packages? Lavender Lemonade is the perfect midday or after work pick-me-up. It makes even the most inconvenient tasks more fun! 

This is a fan-favorite whose return is highly anticipated each summer. All it takes is one sip and you’ll understand why. Floral flavors complement fresh squeezed lemon juice, straight from our kitchen and into your cup. What truly sets this lemonade apart from others is that it’s made with sparkling water and its effervescence makes for an extra refreshing and memorable beverage. 

3. Flash Brew 

This summer, our new and improved Flash Brewed Iced Coffee is here to boost productivity and help conquer all of your to-do lists. This balanced blend of Herkimer beans is brewed over ice instead of steeping grounds overnight, resulting in a smooth taste that’s strong but not reminiscent of jet fuel. Our coffee will empower you to tackle important paperwork with ease while relying on our experienced notary team to provide expertise and excellent guidance. 

4. Iced Golden Chai

Golden chai mix is known for its delicious blend of spices, many of which boast a number of health benefits. At Sip and Ship we want you to trust your gut and follow your intuition, whether that’s choosing a nutritious beverage or allowing us to help you ship a special package. Extra thought and care goes into everything we do; in every big smile, happy hello, and “how can I help?”

Both Sip and Ship locations also have a cold case stocked with a diverse selection of pre-packaged beverages to ensure that hot temps don’t keep you down this summer! We offer brands like Poppi, Aura Bora, WildWonder, and more! For the nostalgia lovers, try a glass bottle of Coca Cola or a Fentiman’s Rose Lemonade. Sip and Ship is ready to serve you a delicious ice-cold beverage this week and make your day a little brighter! Stop by and try these seasonal drinks before they’re gone, or take advantage of our cold case for a quick grab and go during your lunch break. 

P.S. We have some exciting news - Sip and Ship has taken its commitment to sustainability one step further by partnering with OKAPI. Starting July 22nd, our stores will offer reusable cups to help decrease waste and reduce the number of single-use disposable cups. For more information, visit their website and download the app today! 

                                                      Written in collaboration by Diana Naramore and Megan Pavek

Sip and Ship is here to spread joy and provide community.
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​For what small businesses lack in size, they make up for in economic impact and human connection. Each one starts with a dream and possesses a certain type of magic- alongside immeasurable hours of hard work, blood, sweat, and tears. They bring a sense of place to your street, your neighborhood, and your city. These places become a part of your routine. They are the sparkle in the sometimes mundane day-to-day, a reliable hand when life takes exciting leaps upward and in return the inevitable nosedives downward. 

At the very heart of it is one goal: to provide exceptional service. From there, other things start to take root. Happiness is created. Joy is spread. Memories are made. Community is built. 

A lot has changed since the inception of Sip and Sip over 22 years ago, but our commitment to service, family and community hasn’t. While running a small business has its challenges, Sip and Ship relies on our loyal customers to help during the tough times. We kindly ask that you help us spread the word on our amazing services by writing a Google (Ballard | Greenwood) or Yelp (Ballard | Greenwood) review this week. You have the power to help us gain a stronger online search presence and ultimately get more feet through our doors!

As summer flies by and busy plans fill your calendars, don’t forget to support all of your favorite small businesses who may need a little extra love during this season. Even if it’s to drop off a prepaid package, grab a greeting card, or a chocolate chip cookie on your way to Greenlake. We are always excited to welcome you through our doors and connect on your summer adventures.

“I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” 
Maya Angelou

P.S. The time has finally come — Ballard SeafoodFest is back! While you’re out enjoying the festival, remember that Sip and Ship is your respite from the heat with refreshing lavender lemonade.

                                                       Written in collaboration by Diana Naramore and Megan Pavek

We’re excited to spotlight another Sip and Ship team member in our digital postcard greetings.

​It’s no secret that our employees are what make Sip and Ship shine, and we’re excited to share more about them with you. Receiving a digital postcard is a special way to connect with our amazing crew members and learn unique information about them that you wouldn’t otherwise have known! Meet our team inside each exclusive digital postcard and experience Sip and Ship’s in-store charm, because all of us strive to add a little extra pizzazz to your day.


This month we have a postcard from Kaya, a truly dedicated and kind teammate who keeps our Ballard shipping counter running smoothly all summer long! Kaya is one of our seasonal employees and we are absolutely delighted to see her during breaks from school. She just graduated from college this spring and is headed to law school in the fall. Upon chatting with Kaya, it’s clear that there is no shortage of work ethic and ambition. We are so proud of her accomplishments, always here to support her studies, and can’t wait to see her change the world! 


What are some of your passions/hobbies? 
I don’t have much free time, but when I do, I love to explore! Whether that’s a new cafe, new area of the city, or a new country, I’m all about experiencing what’s out there to find a new favorite spot and expand my perspective. I also have a passion for human rights and social justice issues - as an undergrad I did field research on refugee trafficking in Austria, Indigenous youth incarceration in Australia, and my senior thesis was on hazardous child labor in Costa Rica.


Describe a cherished place you like to visit in the summertime. 
For me, it’s Seattle! That might sound a little weird to someone who’s based here year round, but I’ve been abroad the majority of the past four years and soon will be moving to Boston, so I really value the chances I get to come home in the summer. Also, summer is arguably the best time to be in Seattle (weather’s great, a lot of fun activities, etc.), so that’s a big draw as well!


What small business do you love in Seattle and why? 
One of my favorite small businesses in Seattle is Timeless Tea, a bubble tea and dessert shop off of I-5 as you enter the U District. It’s so good and open late, so I head there if I want an after-work treat!


What's your favorite drink/pastry from the Sip and Ship cafe?
I love our iced chai latte with oat milk. For my favorite pastries, I miss the chocolate crinkle cookies from winter, but I’m also a big fan of the molasses cookies!


Any fun facts about yourself you'd like to share with our customers? 
I’m not originally from Seattle - I was born and spent half my life in Portland, OR!
I alluded to it somewhat in my previous answers, but my undergraduate degree was a four-year-long study abroad program! I‘ve had the privilege of living and studying in seven different countries over the past few years!


P.S. The Greenwood Car Show is this Saturday and we can’t wait to support you in all of the festivities. Come say hi and step inside our store for a quick break from the heat + a slice of our amazing banana bread, or try our seasonal Campfire Mocha. We would love to serve you a refreshing iced latte or flashed brewed iced coffee while you’re at it!


There’s also a huge milestone we’d like to acknowledge: Happy five year anniversary to our absolutely brilliant Greenwood store manager, Carrie! You bring so much to our business and are a monumental part of our team. Sip and Ship wouldn’t be the same without you! Thank you for five amazing years- we look forward to working with you for many more.
                                                     
​                                                       Written in collaboration by Diana Naramore and Megan Pavek