Locals + Culture

Showing Appreciation for Our Local Businesses

12/10/2025 | Patrick Marks
Lauren Kerr

Why should we support local businesses in our community? It seems like such a simple question, but a necessary one. It’s not just about helping the economy grow. It’s about taking the extra step; being more intentional within our local community.

We are surrounded by people whose passion is to help others,

people who wake up every day and make it their mission to care for their neighbors. We’re lucky to have incredible people who help keep our cityhome space running, from window cleaners to yard crews and everyone in between. Their work matters more than most people realize.

I had the privilege of speaking with Anna and Zach about their journeys and what they embody as small business owners. With the goal of finding out why caring for our home together makes all the difference.

Anna | Community Doesn’t Stop at People

Anna, founder of In Joy, is our lovely local gardener and outdoor space reclaimer. She believes deeply in the role our yards play in the health of our community. Anna knows that when we choose native plants, we use less water, we support local ecosystems, and we do our part in protecting something far bigger than ourselves.

Her passion for gardening started during her breast cancer treatment, becoming a method of healing for her. What began as personal restoration grew into a mission to care for the world right outside our front door. To Anna, home is a place where she feels safe; It’s a reflection of all the things that she loves. Home to her extends further than just the walls. It’s rooted in the outdoors.

When asked who her ideal client was, she said those who offer a glass of water on a hot day, the homeowners who appreciate the labor, the intention, the purpose behind what she does. She loves collaborating with people who care about the environment, and we love her for it!

Zach | What We Do Isn’t a Chore, It’s a Craft

Zach’s story starts with wanting something more meaningful than just clocking in and out. He wanted work that mattered. He found Pinks Windows in his desire for change and independence.

To him, it’s more than just cleaning windows or pressure washing driveways. He wants to be connected to his clients and make it more than just a “transaction”. He told me, “Getting to talk with customers… being outside every day… in the community… is such a rewarding, refreshing break.” His wife even told him he seemed “so much happier.”

Zach is very enthusiastic about his work. He said directly, “We view it as a craft, not a chore,” emphasizing the professionalism he expects from himself and his team. That level of care is a big reason we trust him with our homes and our clients.

He joked that after spending a bunch of time around the office at cityhome, he eventually rearranged his entire living room. He said he felt inspired to be more intentional with his own space. Words like that make us appreciate being part of such a fun design community.

Behind every small business

Zach and Anna are reminders that people who keep our homes running aren’t just workers. They’re neighbors, parents, and could always use some extra love. When they approach their craft with this kind of passion, it becomes clear why we should support them. Even just a glass of water on a hot day goes a long way. This holiday, let’s not forget to show appreciation for those taking care of our home. 

Anna In joy | 310.339.9172 & Pink's Window services | 385.401.0330

If you find a need for kind people with this kind of passion, reach out to us for our all-things-home vendor list.

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