YPN Member Spotlight: Elaina Dimond, Trione Vineyards and Winery

What do you enjoy most about YPN?

YPN was recommended to me by a club member I met through my previous job. She is involved with the Santa Rosa City Chamber of Commerce and thought I would be a great fit for the Young Professionals Network. Interestingly, my older sister, who is the reason I moved to Sonoma County, was also part of this organization at one time. I love how YPN has helped me explore and discover local establishments I wouldn't have known about otherwise. Since moving to the area, I haven't had much time or opportunity to explore, but YPN has changed that.

If you are new and haven’t experienced what YPN has to offer – what are you hoping to accomplish within this community?

As a recent transplant to Sonoma County, I moved here in 2021 amidst the pandemic, which made me nervous about meeting like-minded people, especially since my profession in the hospitality industry tends to be busy during others' usual off-hours. I'm looking to build more connections and integrate myself further into our community.

What sort of events, mixers, etc. would you like to attend with YPN?

I really enjoy mixers, not just the cocktail kind. Networking, for me, has always been about multiple small, courageous acts of self-promotion. I find these events valuable for personal and professional growth. Given my specific connection to the beverage industry, I particularly enjoy attending events showcasing businesses of this nature: wineries, breweries, restaurants, venues etc.

What are you most excited for this year?

This year has been momentous both professionally and personally. A few years back, I graduated from California Polytechnic State University, Pomona, and was fortunate to pursue higher education directly after high school. This “expedited” timeline has significantly aided my career. I'm grateful to be one of the younger professionals in my role within the wine industry, earning my position through hard work and dedication. Although I have a long way to go before feeling "tenured" in this industry, I appreciate every day the companies that took a chance on me to lead comprehensive departments.

On a personal note, within this calendar year I have been able to move into my own housing. Becoming the first person in my family to have the opportunity to live on their own, sans roommates (finally!).

Whether it is “Hakuna Matata” “Carpe Diem” or “Just Do IT” - Do you have a motto in life?

My life motto is: "I would rather be the one who smiled than the one who didn't smile back."

This phrase consistently reminds me to always find the positive to hold onto and stay motivated, especially during challenging times, both professionally and personally.

What is your favorite way to spend your day off?

In my free time I enjoy a morning yoga class. My love for delicious pastries is satisfied by visiting a local bakery with my sister and friends. I do believe when I stop learning is when I start dying so to combat that I am currently studying to earn a bookkeeping certification.

In my efforts to build a community here I discovered a small, female-owned adult dance fitness studio. In my first year with this studio, I have participated in three shows and am currently developing and choreographing a solo for our upcoming Halloween showcase. The other women involved are inspiring and continue to be a huge source of joy for my life.

In 2023, I focused on finding activities and adding commitments to my schedule that bring me real joy. Each of the above has brought me abundant happiness and smiles as they have integrated into my life.