Shauna Stewart, LINGER Boutique. Photo by Shanna Paxton Photography.
PRINTING Print NW
CONTACT THE CHAMBER 809 Legion Way SE Olympia, WA 98507 360-357-3362 info@thurstonchamber.com thurstonchamber.com
In This Issue: March 2025
March is Women’s History Month, a time to honor the achievements, resilience, and innovation of women across all industries. This month, VOICE Magazine spotlights women entrepreneurs and leaders making an impact in Thurston County and beyond.
Cover Story: Give Yourself Permission to Pause at Linger Boutique
Shauna Stewart founded Linger Boutique with a mission: to help women slow down, reconnect, and embrace joy. From curated lingerie and wellness products to immersive experiences, Linger is more than a boutique—it’s a movement of self-care and empowerment.
Leading with Passion & Innovation: Voshte Demmert-Gustafson of Color Graphics
As the owner of Color Graphics, Voshte has transformed the company with cutting-edge technology, strong industry connections, and a commitment to giving back. She shares her journey as a female leader in a male-dominated industry and the power of resilience, mentorship, and smart risk-taking.
INSPIRE 2025: A Premier Event for Women in Business & Leadership
The Washington Center for Women in Business (WCWB) announces INSPIRE 2025, happening May 22 at Great Wolf Lodge. Featuring keynote speaker Stacey Crnich, CEO of GoodRoots Northwest, the event brings together women entrepreneurs, executives, and business leaders for a day of networking, learning, and inspiration.
Entrepreneur Spotlight: Linnea’s Unique Boutique
Linnea Grantham turned her dream of owning a boutique into a thriving reality. From selling gifts at hospitals to pivoting her business online during the pandemic, Linnea shares lessons on adaptability, perseverance, and building personal connections with her customers.
ALICE Summit: Addressing Housing & Childcare Challenges
On March 5, 2025, United Way of Thurston County hosts the ALICE Summit, a solutionsfocused event tackling housing affordability and childcare accessibility. Leaders, businesses, and community members will come together to discuss data-driven insights and actionable strategies to support working families.
From bold entrepreneurs to community-driven solutions, this issue celebrates the power of women to innovate, lead, and create lasting change. Read on and be inspired!
THURSTON COUNTY CHAMBER
“ OLYFED BANKERS HAVE THE BEST ATTITUDE, FRIENDLIEST SERVICE AND ALWAYS MAKE
INTERIOR DIMENSIONS,
OLYMPIA I CEO Diane Gassman (right), Designer Emma Gomez
D iane Gassman, Founder and CEO of Interior Dimensions, a full-service interior design firm has been proudly banking with OlyFed for more than a decade. Diane met a long-time OlyFed banker at an Olympia Master Builder’s meeting and was thoroughly impressed with her professionalism and kind heart.
Soon thereafter, Diane made the switch to OlyFed where she says they always work together to help with her deposits, ACH transfers and digital banking needs. “Their bankers have the best attitude and friendliest service, “Diane said. We love how they’ve helped us grow and support the community.”
It’s OlyFed’s caring approach that showed Diane the bank truly puts real relationships above the bottom line.
(left)
March 2025
Visit thurstonchamber.com/events or scan the QR code for more info about all upcoming Thurston Chamber events.
Join our host, Sandstone Distillery at 842 Wright Rd SE, Tenino, WA 98589 on Thursday, March 6 at 5:30 p.m. for a special Thurston Young Professionals Networking Event. Enjoy bites and beverages as you expand your network! All are welcome – feel free to invite other 20 to 30-year olds so they can expand their networks! Thurston Young Professionals is sponsored by KGY Media Group.
After Hours
Join our Business After Hours host Fieldstone Communities at 810 Fieldstone Dr. SW Olympia WA 98502 on Thursday, March 20 at 5:30 p.m., for mingling and networking with other business professionals, a door prize business card drawing, beverages and appetizers. Business After Hours is a great opportunity to expand your network, and it is proudly sponsored by ROXY 94.5.
Join the Chamber on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, at 11:30 a.m., at Saint Martin’s University’s Norman Worthington Center at 5300 Pacific Ave SE, Lacey, WA 98503 for a March Forum featuring a discussion about how real estate development will shape Thurston County’s future and the planned development of the South Sound Commerce Center by Panattoni Development Company. Register at thurstonchamber.com/events. Thank you to our sponsors, Cap City Law.
Thank You Sponsors!
IN THIS ISSUE
The Heart Behind Linnea's Unique Boutique p. 7
Linnea Grantham has built more than a boutique; she's cultivated community to create a warm and welcoming space where gifts, creativity and connection flourish.
Leading Color Graphics with Passion & Innovation p. 11
Voshte Demmert-Gustafson and her husband took over Color Graphics in 2012 from his parents, who had founded it in 1984. Under Voshte's leadership, Color Graphics has grown into a thriving modern business.
Permission to Pause at Linger Boutique p. 14
Shauna Stewart founded Linger Boutique because she believes that rest, pleasure and self-care aren't luxuries–they're essential. At Linger, women can explore ways to reconnect with and empower themselves.
Caught in the Lens p. 20
Keep up with the latest Chamber happenings and see all of the great smiles that make up our membership!
(FSC),
by Natasha Ashenhurst • Photos
Linnea Grantham: The Heart Behind Linnea’s Unique Boutique
Linnea and her family. She said, "We had five children in just five years, all while living in California. Wanting to escape the Bay Area’s fast-paced lifestyle and high cost of living, we decided to move somewhere more affordable so I could stay home and raise our family."
When you step into Linnea’s Unique Boutique, you’re not just entering a shop—you’re stepping into a dream that was years in the making. Owner Linnea Grantham has built more than a boutique; she’s cultivated a community, a warm and welcoming space where gifts, creativity, and connection flourish.
A Dream Realized
“I grew up surrounded by beautiful things,” Linnea shares. “My parents owned a European gift shop back east, and I always knew I wanted something like that one day.”
That “one day” arrived in 2015 when Linnea learned that the gift shop space at Capital Medical Center was available for a new tenant. With encouragement from her husband, she took the leap. The first Linnea’s Unique Boutique opened at the hospital in December 2015, followed
by another at Overlake Medical Center in Bellevue two years later. In April 2019, she expanded to a 3,000-square-foot storefront in Lacey—a significant jump from her initial 300-square-foot space.
Then, COVID-19 hit, and overnight, both hospital locations closed.
Reinventing the Business
“We had to pivot fast,” Linnea recalls. “Failure wasn’t an option.”
With customers unable to browse in
person, she turned to social media. Inspired by a friend’s Facebook Live cooking show, Linnea started hosting daily live shopping sessions.
“She told me, ‘Don’t practice. Just turn on the camera and talk from your heart,’” Linnea says. “So, I did. I started showcasing Easter baskets, and between March 20 and April 10, I made and shipped 118 baskets. Then Mother’s Day came, and I sold 86 more. I had never done anything like that before—but people loved it!”
courtesy of Linnea Grantham
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That adaptability has become a cornerstone of Linnea’s business model. While an online store is in the works, she’s embraced FaceTime shopping for out-of-state customers and continues to create custom gift baskets for real estate agents, mortgage brokers, and banks.
“People call us, give us a budget and a little information about the recipient, and we curate something perfect,” she explains. “It’s all about personal touch.”
The Balancing Act
Linnea’s entrepreneurial journey is impressive on its own, but when you factor in that she raised five children—all born within five years— it’s even more remarkable.
“My husband and I wanted a different pace than the Bay Area,” she says. “We moved to Washington so I could stay home with the kids. When the timing was right, I finally pursued my dream. Now, I have an incredible team that keeps things running smoothly. I’m actually talking to you from vacation right now!”
Lessons in Business and Life
Linnea’s advice to aspiring business owners? Be patient and be willing to adapt.
“You have to understand that success takes time,” she says. “You can’t just sit back and hope customers will come to you. You have to put yourself out there. And when things don’t go as planned—because they won’t— you have to pivot.”
Her biggest risk was opening the Lacey location, which is now her sole storefront. “At the hospitals, foot traffic was built-in,” she says. “Here, people have to come on purpose. That was a huge leap, but it’s been so rewarding.”
If she could give her younger self one piece of advice, it would be this:
“Be patient. The right time will come. Had I forced this when the kids were little, it might not have worked out. When it’s meant to happen, it will.”
Looking Ahead
So, what’s next for Linnea’s Unique Boutique?
“We’re always evolving,” Linnea says. “I’d love to grow our online presence and continue building relationships with our customers. This business isn’t just about selling things—it’s about making people feel special.”
And that’s exactly what she’s done. In a world that moves fast, Linnea has created a space where thoughtfulness, warmth, and personal connection take center stage.
“My customers aren’t just customers,” she says. “They’re family.”
VOSHTE DEMMERT-GUSTAFSON:
Leading Color Graphics with Passion and Innovation
by Natasha Ashenhurst
When Voshte Demmert-Gustafson and her husband took over Color Graphics in 2012, they weren't just inheriting a family business—they were elevating it to new heights. Founded in 1984 by her husband's parents, the Tumwater-based company has become a powerhouse in screen printing, embroidery and swag. Under Voshte's leadership, Color Graphics has grown into a thriving, modern business that blends cutting-edge technology with strong community connections.
A Business Transformed
"We've streamlined our operations, invested in technology, and shifted our focus to medium and large-size businesses," Voshte explains. "We have the capacity for large-scale screen printing, embroidery and bulk purchasing/warehousing of promotional products for events, so we have redefined our target customer to align with our capabilities."
One of the biggest changes has been integrating advanced CRM software to enhance efficiency and customer relationships. But beyond the business model, Voshte has made it a priority to connect with the community.
"As soon as we took over, I joined the Boys & Girls Club board," she says. "Now, 10 years later, I've received a Service Award for my work with them. I also serve as a delegate for my tribe, the Tlingit and Haida Indian Tribes of Alaska, and lead industry-specific owner groups. I enjoy mentoring other women in business. Giving back, especially to youth, is something I'm passionate about."
Photos by Shanna Paxton Photography
“I’ve always had an entrepreneurial spirit. I was raised to do things right the first time, work hard, and perfect my craft. That mindset has helped me take a seat at the table and lead conversations with confidence... One of our sales reps, who is also a woman, and I often tag-team meetings. Even if it’s an all-male industry, we walk in, prove ourselves, and build strong relationships from day one.”
A Female Leader in the Promo Industry
As a woman in business, Voshte embraces challenges headon. "I've always had an entrepreneurial spirit," she says. "I was raised to do things right the first time, work hard, and perfect my craft. That mindset has helped me take a seat at the table and lead conversations with confidence."
She and her team regularly work with industries that are traditionally male-dominated, such as construction, trades and utilities. "One of our sales reps, Heidi and I often tag-team meetings. Even if it's an all-male industry, we walk in, prove ourselves, and build strong relationships from day one." The collaboration between Voshte and Heidi exemplifies the power of teamwork and the ability to break down barriers in any industry.
A Risk-Taker with a Vision
Voshte's journey has been defined by resilience and a willingness to take risks. "I was the first in my immediate family to go to college," she shares. "I started commercial fishing at 14 and put myself through the University of Washington with scholarships and my own hard work—graduating with zero debt."
When she and her husband took over Color Graphics, they weren't content with maintaining the status quo. "We doubled the size of the business, refined our processes, and committed to continuous learning. I even completed a Minority Executive Course at UW, which gave me invaluable insights early on."
Heidi Lopez-Mix, Voshte Demmert-Gustafson, her husband, Kiley Gustafson and Debbie Sinclair.
Advice for Aspiring Women in Business
"It's totally doable," Voshte encourages. "I love being busy, but I've learned not to bite off more than I can chew. I was on so many boards and leadership roles in various groups at one point that it became overwhelming. A mentor helped me realize I needed to step back from a few of these responsibilities to refocus, reenergize and maximize my potential before I get burnt out."
Now, she advises young women to find balance. "You have to prioritize. There's a lot to juggle, but if you love what you do and surround yourself with supportive people, you can make it work."
Looking Ahead
Today, Voshte and her team are investing heavily in digital marketing and online presence. "People are shopping on their phones, looking for one-stop branding solutions. We want to stay ahead of that shift," she says. "We have an incredible team, and I wouldn't be where I am today without them and my husband."
The Chamber has also played a key role in Color Graphics' journey. "We've always been big supporters. We love sponsoring youth sports, attending Chamber events, and participating in Foofaraw. It's all about building relationships."
With Voshte at the helm, Color Graphics is more than a business—it's a reflection of hard work, innovation, and a deep-rooted commitment to community and culture. And for her, that's what makes the journey worthwhile.
Voshte, Cuc Tran, Esteban Luis and Kristen Hennigar.
Give Yourself Permission to Pause at LINGER BOUTIQUE
by Kathryn Millhorn • Photos by Shanna Paxton Photography
In today’s nonstop world, women juggle careers, family, friendships, caregiving, and their own physical and mental well-being—often putting themselves last. The result? Burnout, exhaustion, and sometimes even illness.
That’s exactly why Shauna Stewart founded Linger Boutique in downtown Olympia. She believes that rest, pleasure, and self-care aren’t luxuries—they’re essential. At Linger, women can explore ways to slow down, reconnect with themselves, and embrace joy in a way that feels safe, empowering, and deeply personal.
The Power of Pleasure: From Struggle to Strength Stewart’s journey to prioritizing pleasure wasn’t by choice. In 2020, a mystery illness left her debilitated for nine months.
“It was one of the darkest, most desperate times of my life,” she recalls. “I was endlessly searching for answers.”
Then, one late-night web search changed everything: Pleasure is an antidote to pain.
“It was such a simple idea, but it spoke to me in a profound way,” she says. “I began exploring the transformative power of pleasure in all areas of my life. That realization planted a seed—I wanted to create a space where women
could feel safe and supported in rediscovering their own pleasure and embracing their full selves.”
A Safe & Approachable Space to Prioritize Yourself
At Linger Boutique, Stewart carefully curates lingerie, sexual wellness products, and immersive experiences— like coaching and retreats—that help women reconnect with their bodies and their confidence.
“I make it a priority to work with female-founded brands and choose products that are meaningful, sustainable, and beautifully designed,” she says. “For me, it’s not just about selling items—it’s about helping women feel fully alive.”
That philosophy extends to Stewart’s own experience as a business owner.
“For so long, women were expected to conform to systems that weren’t built for them. Now, I see women breaking those molds—creating businesses and workplaces that truly support their lives and ambitions. It’s incredible to witness, and I love being part of that movement.”
Breaking Stigmas & Encouraging Others to Take the Leap
Building a business centered on women’s pleasure and wellness hasn’t always been easy. “There’s still stigma around sexual wellness,” Stewart admits. “But I’ve found an amazing community of support.”
She encourages other women to trust their intuition and take the leap into entrepreneurship.
“Your intuition knows more than you realize. It’s easy to get overwhelmed by outside opinions, but your vision is yours for a reason. Some of my best decisions came from following my gut—even when it didn’t make sense to anyone else. Believe in your wisdom, take the leap, and trust that you’ll figure it out along the way.”
What’s Next: A Luxury Retreat & More Ways to Linger Linger Boutique isn’t just a place to shop—it’s a community. You’ll find complimentary bra fittings, a seasonal lingerie subscription, private events, and a podcast.
And in May 2025, Stewart is hosting a Luxury Women’s Retreat in Tuscany, where guests will experience yoga, somatic dance, pleasure workshops, and Italian cultural immersion.
You can visit Linger Boutique at 111 Market Street NE, Suite 107 (Hours are Wed-Fri, 11:30am-5:30pm, Sat, 11am-4pm, and Sunday, 11am-3pm), or shop online at www.LingerBoutique.com for curated products, coaching, workshops, and more.
Follow Linger on Instagram @linger.u and @lingerbtq.
How Will Real Estate Development Shape Thurston County’s Future?
Find out at Thurston Chamber's March Forum!
When: Wednesday, March 12, 11:30am-1pm
Where: Norman Worthington Center at Saint Martin’s University, 5300 Pacific Ave SE, Lacey, WA
The Thurston County Chamber invites the community to its March Forum for an inside look at the national, regional, and local real estate trends driving economic growth. With development playing a key role in business expansion, job creation, and community vitality, this discussion will uncover what’s next for Thurston County— and a first-hand preview of the new South Sound Commerce Center planned for Tumwater.
Join industry leaders on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM at the Norman Worthington Center, Saint Martin’s University, for a dynamic, interview-style conversation moderated by the Port of Olympia.
Our featured guest, Travis Hale, Seattle Partner at Panattoni Development Company, brings a wealth of experience, with over 4.5 million square feet of projects currently under construction across Washington and Oregon.
A Pierce County native, Travis grew up in the South Sound and now lives in Gig Harbor with his wife and two daughters. Recognized as NAIOP’s (Commercial
Real Estate Development Association) President of the Year, he has played a key role in shaping commercial real estate development in the region.
Why Attend?
Commercial real estate development plays a critical role in fostering economic opportunities by providing a platform for business growth, job creation, and community vibrancy. The discussion will cover:
• National, regional, and local real estate trends impacting Thurston County.
• The role of real estate development in supporting small and light manufacturing industries.
• Investing in Thurston County and the South Sound Commerce Center: Insight into Panattoni’s proposed development within the Port of Olympia’s New Market Industrial Campus in Tumwater.
• Challenges municipalities face with budget constraints and how development contributes to long-term economic sustainability.
Thank you to our March Forum sponsors, Cap City Law. Tickets are available at: thurstonchamber.com/events
PRESENTING SPONSOR
March 21 2025 6PM
Join the Thurston County Chamber Foundation for their signature fundraising gala, A Night on the Town on March 21
Step into an evening of elegance, purpose, and celebration at A Night on the Town 2025! Join the Thurston County Chamber Foundation on Friday, March 21, 2025 for our signature fundraising event. The night kicks off with a cocktail social, followed by a delectable four-course dinner and an exciting live auction. Then, keep the energy alive at our exclusive after-party featuring exceptional entertainment.
Your ticket purchase supports the Chamber Foundation’s mission to empower education, equity, and entrepreneurship in our community. Programs like Find Your Future, Leadership Thurston County, and Business2Youth Connect thrive because of your generosity—fostering opportunities for students, entrepreneurs, and local leaders to grow and succeed. Tickets are on sale now! $200 per person or $1,500 for a table of 8. Visit thurstonchamber.ejoinme.org/ANOTT25TIX
All proceeds directly benefit Chamber Foundation programs like the Small Business Incubator, Math for Life, and more. Don’t miss this unforgettable evening that combines community impact with unmatched entertainment.
Together, we’ll build stronger, more vibrant communities—one unforgettable night at a time.
COMMUNITY EVENTS
Washington Center for Women in Business Announces INSPIRE 2025: A Premier Event for Women in Business & Leadership
The Washington Center for Women in Business (WCWB) is thrilled to announce INSPIRE 2025, a one-day conference dedicated to empowering and uplifting women in business, leadership, and entrepreneurship. Taking place on May 22, 2025, at Great Wolf Lodge, this year’s event will bring together trailblazing speakers, industry leaders, and women-owned businesses for a day of networking, learning, and inspiration.
INSPIRE 2025 is honored to welcome Stacey Crnich, CEO of GoodRoots Northwest, as this year's keynote speaker. With 20 years of experience bridging market needs with innovative solutions, Crnich is a supply chain and marketing strategist with a passion for rural economic development. She is currently spearheading the GoodRoots Locker Network, a groundbreaking system providing 24/7 access to fresh, locally produced foods through climatecontrolled lockers. INSPIRE 2025 will also feature women-owned businesses and vendors.
INSPIRE is more than just a conference—it’s a movement to empower women, elevate their voices, and build lasting connections in the business community. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, executive, small business owner, or just looking to grow personally and professionally, this event is for you. Learn more and buy tickets at www.wcwb.org/inspire-2025
United Way of Thurston County invites community leaders, businesses, and residents to attend the ALICE Summit, a solutions-focused event addressing two of the region’s most pressing issues: housing affordability and childcare accessibility.
The event will take place on March 5, from 10:00am to 2:30pm, at South Puget Sound Community College, Lacey Campus, 4220 6th Ave SE, Lacey, WA 98503. The summit will feature insightful discussions with guest speakers, providing data-driven perspectives and actionable strategies to support ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) households—working families struggling to afford basic necessities despite earning above the federal poverty level.
Tickets at www.unitedway-thurston.org
Whether you have two employees or 100, we offer affordable, high-quality benefits that meet the needs of growing companies. In addition to insurance, we offer a wide range of services, resources, and savings, including virtual care, monthly wellness resources, cost savings on common office supplies. We stay on top of changes in the small business health insurance market and advocate for changes that benefit small businesses.
To request a quote, contact quotes@tbsmga.com.
WELCOME NEW CHAMBER MEMBERS!
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