About Us - The Wolf & Horseshoe

Two globe-trotting hosts, a once-forgotten ranch, and a shared belief that the best moments happen when people gather.

The Wolf & Horseshoe is the result of a shared leap — away from packed calendars, constant travel, and building other people’s brands, and toward a life centered on place, people, and possibility.

During our years of globe-trotting careers in food, beverage, beer, and spirits, we found ourselves craving something more grounded — a home where friends lingered longer, where meals stretched into the night, and where the energy felt alive and effortless all at once. When we came across an outdated ranch tucked just outside the Sonoma Plaza, we saw not just a renovation project, but the beginning of something bigger.

Today, The Wolf & Horseshoe is a farm, a home, and a gathering place — equal parts relaxed and spirited — where sunshine days turn into poolside afternoons, dinners turn into stories, and strangers often leave as friends.

We’re Rusti and Martin — your hosts, your unofficial Sonoma guides, and the ones likely refilling your glass, pointing you toward the best local spot, or checking in to see if you need anything at all. Between us, we’ve spent decades helping build brands that connect deeply with people — always drawn to the intersection of culture, community, and shared experience. Hosting has always been the through-line: bringing people together, setting the tone, and creating spaces where energy flows naturally.

Guests often tell us the same thing — that what they remember most isn’t just the house or the setting, but the feeling. The warmth. The laughter. The ease. We’ve been lucky enough to witness milestone moments, proposals and have even spent honeymoons with our guests who luckily chose Sonoma as their celebration. Some have even joked that we should come to their weddings (we take that as the highest compliment). Whether we’re hosting a full table, a quiet weekend, or just popping by to say hello, our goal is simple: make your time here feel joyful, connected, and unmistakably Sonoma.

We’re Rusti and Martin — your hosts, your unofficial Sonoma guides, and the ones likely refilling your glass, pointing you toward the best local spot, or checking in to see if you need anything at all.Between us, we’ve spent decades helping build brands that connect deeply with people — from iconic beer and spirits to mission-driven food and beverage companies — always drawn to the intersection of culture, community, and shared experience. Hosting has always been the through-line: bringing people together, setting the tone, and creating spaces where energy flows naturally.

Where Design Meets Community. The renovation of The Wolf & Horseshoe became something unexpected — a creative collaboration rooted in Sonoma’s design community. Rather than working with a single designer, we invited a group of local creatives (10 to be exact!) to each take on a space, treating the house as a shared canvas rather than a singular point of view.

The result is a home that unfolds room by room — layered, personal, and full of contrast — where global influences meet California ease. Featured in Sunset Magazine, the project reflects what happens when trust, creativity, and collaboration lead the way: spaces that feel collected, lived-in, and ready for real life.

Meet the Designers

Hospitality First

We believe the best experiences feel personal, warm, thoughtful and unforced – where guests feel generally welcomed and cared for. Every stay and gathering is curated with care.

Rooted in Sonoma

Our relationships with local farmers, winemakers, chefs, and creatives shape how we gather, cook, and celebrate. From farm harvests to local makers, the table is always at the heart of what we do.

Design with Soul

Spaces should feel collected, not curated — layered, lived-in, and meant to be enjoyed. Each space tells a deeply personal story.

Care for Land & Animals

Stewardship guides how we care for this place — from regenerative farming practices to partnerships that support animal rescue. A portion of all proceeds supports local animal rescue and regenerative efforts.

The farm is where the next chapter of The Wolf & Horseshoe comes to life. What began with open land, orchards, sheep, and rescue pups is slowly growing into a fuller expression of how we want to live — and share this place.

In the seasons ahead, we’re expanding food production, adding more animals (up next is a flock of hens and we’re still debating between a rescued llama, alpaca, or something slightly unexpected!), and creating more ways for guests to connect with the land — from harvest moments and farm walks to fresh ingredients that make their way to the table.

The vision is simple: a farm that feels alive, playful, and generous — where the land feeds the experience, the animals add character, and every visit offers something new to discover.

The Wolf & Horseshoe is supported by a small group of like-minded brands who believe in thoughtful design, quality craftsmanship, and the power of gathering. From the early days of our renovation to what’s ahead, these partners have helped shape the spaces we share — and we’re grateful for their generosity and collaboration.