Chris and Lauren Runow
Lauren started her design career at Vacaville High School designing the Vaca High yearbook for three years until she graduated in 1999. After high school she attended the Academy of Art College in San Francisco receiving a bachelors degree in Motion Picture and Television. Living in San Francisco for four years made her realize the big city was not for her, and Vacaville is exactly where she wanted to live. Trying to stay in the field of motion pictures and television she worked for both FOX40 and Good Day Sacramento. Working either the early days or late nights, Lauren learned quickly that television was not for her. It was then that a graphic design firm in Davis called Studio66 took a chance and hired her as their Motion Graphics artist. She received more layout and design training with Studio66 and learned the skills she has today to run this Vacaville Magazine.
Chris' Vacavillian roots are deep in this community. His Grandparents first called Vacaville home back in the early 1950's and they have been here ever since. Chris graduated Vacaville High in 1998 and shortly later enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. After serving his country as a KC-135 Crew Chief for four years in Spokane, WA, Chris decided to come back home to Vacaville. Real Estate runs in the family so upon returning home he studied and passed his Real Estate exam and went to work downtown securing mortgages for his clients. After a fast paced few years (loan officers don't sleep) the market dried up, to say the least. Another great idea was just on the horizon though... Vacaville Magazine! When his then longtime girlfriend asked what he thought of them starting a local magazine, he thought it was a no-brainer. He knew Vacaville was a great community that would embrace a magazine of this type with open arms and was excited to be a part of that and help his girl achieve her dream!
It is from here that Lauren's dream of starting a local magazine came true with the help of her very supportive husband, Chris, their families and this great community. The magazine started in May of 2007, and Chris and Lauren were married June of 2007. Since then they have had two boys, Mason and Leighton.
Ryan Bates Photography
Ryan Bates Photography is owned and operated by husband and wife team, Ryan and Angie Bates. Ryan and Angie combine their creative talents to produce exciting portrait and wedding photography for their community and beyond.
Ryan is a graduate of Brooks Institute of Photography with a double major in Advertising/ Illustration and Digital Imaging. He has been working in the profession for over fifteen years and loves portrait photography. He is passionate about creating unique and special images for every client. Ryan is active in the community through the Chamber of Commerce and holds a seat on the Board of Directors for the Downtown Association. In his spare time, he is an avid cyclist and long course triathlete.
Angie is deeply creative with a fascination for people and relationships. She often assists Ryan on location and during studio sessions. She wants every client to have a memorable experience at the studio and enjoys creating a warm and welcoming environment for all who visit. She also keeps the website looking great.
Ryan and Angie feel blessed that they get to work together and they have a lot of fun doing so. They have been married for nine years and they have two wonderful little boys and a little girl who are constantly inspiring them. When you visit the studio you will get the immediate sense that family is an integral part of their creativity.