About Me
I'm so happy you're here!
Hi, I'm Julia Fischer, founder and owner of Shangri-La Lane, a creative home, gift, and DIY boutique I started in 2011.
Shangri-La Lane began with a love of transforming old furniture, creating beautiful spaces, and proving that a little creativity can give something an entirely new life. Over the years, that passion has grown into so much more—a place where people can shop, learn, and create.
Today, I love filling the shop with unique finds, artisan-made goods, creative supplies, and products that inspire you to make your home feel a little more like you. Even more than that, I love bringing people together through our hands-on DIY workshops. Whether you're an experienced maker or someone who insists, “I'm not creative,” my goal is for you to leave feeling inspired, confident, and proud of what you created.
Along the way, I've been incredibly fortunate to have my furniture and creative work featured in Country Living Magazine, Fresh Style Magazine, MaryJane's Farm Magazine, This Old House, and on WHAS11 ABC. What started as a creative outlet has taken me places I never could have imagined when I began Shangri-La Lane more than 15 years ago.
Community is also a big part of who I am. I serve as Board Secretary for Individual & Family Support Network (IFSN), a Sonoma County nonprofit dedicated to supporting and empowering individuals and families.
And when I'm not at the shop, you'll often find me with a four-legged houseguest. I'm a volunteer foster for Cavalier Rescue USA, opening my home to Cavalier King Charles Spaniels who need a safe place to land while they wait for their forever families. It's a piece of my life that brings me an incredible amount of joy.
At the heart of everything I do is a simple belief: creativity brings people together. It builds confidence, starts conversations, creates friendships, and reminds us that we're all capable of making something beautiful.
I'm so glad you've found Shangri-La Lane, and I hope you'll stop by, take a class, discover something you love, or simply come in and say hello.
Welcome to Shangri-La Lane—come shop, learn, create, and stay awhile.
We Support Local & American Artisans
At Shangri-La Lane, I believe the things we bring into our homes are even more special when there’s a story behind them. That’s why I’m passionate about supporting local makers, independent artisans, and small businesses throughout the USA.
Throughout the shop, you’ll find thoughtfully selected handmade goods—from pottery and home décor to soaps, candles, textiles, gifts, and other one-of-a-kind finds. Many of these products are made in small batches, with the care, creativity, and attention to detail that you simply don’t find in mass-produced goods.
Choosing handmade is about more than finding something beautiful. It’s also about supporting real people, celebrating creativity, and helping small businesses and traditional craftsmanship thrive.
I love being able to introduce my customers to talented makers and offer products that feel personal, distinctive, and made to last. When you shop small and handmade at Shangri-La Lane, you’re not just purchasing a product—you’re supporting the people and stories behind it.
DIY Workshops & Craft Classes
Creativity is always better when it’s shared! At Shangri-La Lane, I offer fun, hands-on DIY workshops and craft classes designed to help you learn new skills, try new techniques, and create something you’ll be proud to take home.
Located in downtown Santa Rosa, California, our workshops cover a variety of creative projects, including furniture and cabinet painting, Iron Orchid Designs (IOD) products, decoupage, seasonal home décor, and other unique DIY projects. Whether you’re an experienced maker or trying something creative for the very first time, you’ll receive plenty of guidance in a relaxed, welcoming environment. No experience is necessary—just come ready to create!
I also offer one-on-one instruction and private group workshops, making Shangri-La Lane a fun destination for friends, family gatherings, birthdays, team outings, and other creative get-togethers.
Ready to make something? Browse our upcoming workshops below and reserve your spot. New classes and projects are added throughout the year, so be sure to check back often.
Not local to Santa Rosa? You can still get creative with Shangri-La Lane! Explore the DIY tutorials available on my website, and if you have questions about a product or project, I’m always happy to help by phone or email.
Official retailer for the following product lines:
