About Us

Ground was born out of the design minds of longtime friends and collaborators who envisioned the ideal California lifestyle—now re-energized for a new chapter. Today, Ground is co-led by Caitlin McVarish and Erin M. Kidwell, combining decades of creative vision with a fresh entrepreneurial spirit. With Ground, they bring to life a space where plants, design, and connection flourish, coordinating indoor and outdoor spaces to elevate both beauty and utility. Ground functions as a shop, a garden, and a vibrant community meeting place for sharing ideas, learning, and expression.

Set in a former nursery, Ground features 10,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor space, styled with a lush blend of California-grown plants and house goods, including textiles, ceramics, apothecary, and tableware curated from both local and global artisans. With a commitment to sustainability and meaning, each item is chosen for quality and story. Ground’s event calendar features creative workshops and gatherings, and the shop continues as headquarters for landscape styling and community building. Grab a pour-over coffee, discover something special for your home, or join a workshop to connect and unwind.

“Our vision is to help our customers create spaces filled with beauty, comfort, and purpose—whether that’s taking a class, discovering a well-crafted gift, or letting us design a new backyard retreat. Ground is a gathering place for inspiration—and growth.”

Meet the Proprietors

Erin M. Kidwell: Purpose-driven leader (& community builder)

Erin brings a wealth of innovation and compassion to Ground, drawing on her background as a tech executive, entrepreneur, and founder of socially impactful ventures. After leading teams and founding new businesses in the Bay Area—including Refill Marin, now part of Ground’s sustainable offerings—Erin joins Caitlin at the helm with a heart for both business and people. Her journey includes launching programs teaching women to code and opening a restaurant that welcomed formerly incarcerated neighbors. “I’m thrilled to join Caitlin and the Ground team. We want Ground to inspire locals—a place where people connect, learn, and take home things that matter: plants, classes, and beautifully crafted goods.”

Caitlin McVarish: The textile guru (& power shopper)

Caitlin weaves her love of color, pattern, and design into everything she selects for Ground. A California native, Caitlin has excelled in fashion and interior design, sourcing luxurious hand-knotted rugs and unique objects from both local makers and global artisans. “I’m always seeking those special items I’d treasure in my own space. Here, I get to share that with our whole community.”