In the heart of Capitola Village, where ocean breezes meet colorful storefronts, you’ll find Lumen Gallery—a thoughtfully curated shop that glows with creativity, purpose, and heart. Owner Cierra Ryczek has built more than a boutique here; she’s built a reflection of her values, her community, and her life by the sea.
A Small Town with a Big Heart
Cierra describes Capitola as a “small town with an old-world community vibe.” It’s that warmth and familiarity that continues to inspire her after more than a decade in business. “Capitola has a heart,” she says. “It holds meaning for so many people—family vacations, reunions, honeymoons, anniversaries. It’s a place where memories live.”
Finding Home in Capitola
Cierra opened her shop in 2011 after discovering Capitola through someone she was dating. What started as a visit soon turned into a life-changing move. “I fell in love with the charm of the Village,” she recalls. “I opened my store, met my husband, bought our first home, welcomed our son, and built our life right here.” Fourteen years later, that sense of rootedness continues to shape how she runs her business and connects with the community.
The Meaning Behind the Name
The name Lumen—which means “light”—beautifully captures the spirit of Cierra’s philosophy. “I was deeply motivated by the idea of conscious shopping,” she explains. “To me, that means buying locally made goods, designed with intention and integrity. Every dollar you spend is a vote for the world you want to live in.”
Inside the gallery, every piece has a story. Each artist and maker is chosen not just for their craft but for their authenticity and alignment with Lumen’s values. “Every item has been carefully selected,” Cierra says. “We have a genuine, supportive, and real connection with each artist we work with.”
Living the Capitola Life
When she’s not in the shop, Cierra embraces the local rhythm that first drew her here. “I love spending time with my husband and son—swimming at Hoopers, walking the wharf, fishing, taking out boats, shopping at local stores, and visiting with friends who own businesses here,” she says. “It has that old-world community feel that makes Capitola so special.”
What Keeps Customers Coming Back
Visitors are drawn to Lumen for more than just its beautiful displays. They come for the feeling behind the collection—the sense that every purchase supports something meaningful. “I think our customers appreciate the quality of what we curate and our connection to local artisans,” Cierra says. “We take pride in offering genuine, intentional customer service.”
In a world that often feels fast and fleeting, Lumen Gallery offers something enduring: light, connection, and the beauty of choosing with care. And in Capitola, that light shines a little brighter.
Lumen Gallery
112 Capitola Ave #100
Capitola, CA 95010
(831) 295-6647
https://www.lumengal.com/