The Story of Zaza

In the early 1970s, Encinitas, California, was a vibrant coastal enclave where surf culture, spiritual exploration, and artistic expression intertwined. It was a place where the sun-kissed beaches met the lush meditation gardens of the Self-Realization Fellowship (SRF), attracting free spirits, artists, and dreamers from all over.

But their lives were about more than just flowers. Willow and Rose were deeply embedded in the counterculture scene, rubbing shoulders with some of the most influential figures of the era. Musicians, poets, and activists frequently passed through Encinitas, drawn to its laid-back vibe and the spiritual aura of the SRF. It wasn't uncommon to see Willow and Rose hosting informal gatherings at their bohemian-style home, where they would discuss art, music, and the possibilities of expanding human consciousness with their eclectic circle of friends.

As the story goes, one evening, they hosted a gathering at their home, where they welcomed a young, up-and-coming San Diego folk singer named Tom Waits.

Known for his deep, gravelly voice and poetic lyrics, Tom was a regular in the Encinitas scene and shared their love for artistic exploration. During the gathering, Tom introduced them to the world of mushrooms, sharing stories of their mind-expanding properties and their ability to unlock new levels of creativity.

Intrigued and inspired by Tom's experiences, Willow and Rose decided to try the mushrooms for themselves, setting off on a journey that would forever change their lives and lead to the creation of Zaza.

The effects were profound. These mushrooms, which they named "Zaza", became their secret to accessing a deeper understanding of the world and their own artistic potential. The experience was so transformative that they began sharing Zaza with their close friends, many of whom were influential figures in the counterculture movement.

Soon, Zaza became a sought-after secret among the creatives and visionaries who passed through Encinitas, fueling art, music, and ideas that would shape the era.

Realizing the potential of Zaza, Willow and Rose decided to incorporate it into their flower business. They began creating beautifully crafted gift boxes that combined their exquisite flowers with carefully prepared Zaza mushrooms.

Each box was a sensory experience—a feast for the eyes, nose, and mind. They adorned the boxes with hand-drawn designs inspired by the psychedelic art of the time, making each one a unique work of art.

However, as the 1970s waned and the counterculture faded into the background, Zaza slowly drifted into obscurity. Willow and Rose, content with the legacy they had created, returned to focusing on their flower business, and Zaza became a cherished memory for those who experienced its magic.

Fast forward to today, and Zaza is experiencing a revival, thanks to two modern-day visionaries - Ash, Willow's grandson, and his best friend, Asher (The Ash’s). Growing up, Ash and Asher were fascinated by the stories they heard as teenagers about Encinitas, CA counterculture, and the legendary Zaza.

Inspired by the tales of creativity, empowerment, and happiness, they decided it was time to bring the brand back to life.

With a deep respect for the past and a passion for holistic wellness, Ash and Asher have revived Zaza for a new generation. They've modernized the packaging and formulas while preserving the hand-crafted, artistic spirit of the originals, and they've sourced the finest ingredients to create a line of Zaza products that honor the brand's roots in nature, creativity, and feminine energy.

Today, Zaza is more than just a brand; it's a movement that continues to "Make People Happy!" by helping them unlock their minds, improve focus, increase creativity, and deepen their connection to the world around them. A focus that makes Zaza, once again, a beacon for those seeking to live creatively, consciously, and joyfully.