When they opened Capital Confections, a small business specializing in handcrafted chocolates, more than 24 years ago, husband-and-wife partners Teresa and Craig Higgins knew to expect the unexpected.

The Western Depot in Yuba City has carved out a niche in the model railroad industry for 44 years with its impressive inventory, knowledgeable staff and timeless train decor.

Comstock’s executive editor predicts the recovery of the wine and travel industries.

Card shops have been declining in number the past 20 years, but there’s a gold rush in the industry today.

Elyse Tolles is a one-woman show — a designer of artful jewelry and a former flutist.

Small businesses continue to open, and some longtimers — like Tess’ Kitchen & Culinary — have found ways to thrive under new owners.

Miranda Culp and Laurelin Gilmore are accustomed to the look of wonder on the faces of the people who stumble into their independent bookshop, Amatoria Fine Art Books. 

In the heart of historic downtown Winters, Al Calderone builds guitars, teaches the craft of guitar and ukulele making, and gives lessons.

The pandemic recession has shaped businesses in big and small ways, and its impacts have reached employers, employees, suppliers and customers.