A sold-out woodworking class packed Mystic's new B-Side studio in Mill Valley in June, marking the first collaboration between two downtown businesses that are already planning a repeat.

Aaron Sanchez, owner of The Local Trade, led the spoon carving workshop at Mystic's studio at 31 Sunnyside Ave. Attendees learned Japanese hand-carving techniques, sketched their designs, and walked out with finished wooden spoons they made themselves. No prior experience was required, all supplies were provided, and the class is open to ages 13 and up, with students ages 13 to 17 required to have a parent or guardian signed up and attending with them.

Sanchez called it special to host his first Mill Valley class with a business he's long admired. "Seeing the smiles on faces and the journey from a block of wood to a carved spoon made it 100 times better," he said in the Mill Valley Chamber of Commerce's July 17 announcement of the partnership.

Both businesses are Chamber members. The collaboration pairs Mystic's studio space with Sanchez's teaching background. Sanchez lives in Mill Valley with his wife. According to his instructor biography on Mystic's website, he grew up woodworking outside Lake Tahoe, began formal training in carving and tool sharpening seven years ago, and started hosting spoon carving courses for Marin locals in 2025.

Attendee Amanda Farrell, quoted in the Chamber announcement, said she had never worked with wood or carving tools before the class but left with a hand-crafted spoon she "couldn't have imagined being able to make on my own." She called it a good date night and said she'd bring friends next time.

A second session is scheduled for Friday, September 4, at 6 p.m. at Mystic's B-Side studio. Registration is open at mysticmv.com.