Our Story

OUR STORY…SO FAR

Blue Hal Booth opened the shop in June of 1975, one month after his 21st birthday with the vision of selling coffee, tea, and spices from around the world.  Forty-five years and many miles later, he’s still at it in the same location in Santa Barbara. 

In 1978, Blue and his best friend Henry Wildenborg, began a year long journey around the world.  The time was spent learning about and searching for all manner of botanical wonders and things that might sell in the shop.  Blue’s mom, Joan, and sisters Kathy and Shannon stepped in to keep the shop going during The Quest.

In 1986, Blue bought a small coffee farm in the South Kona district on the Big Island of Hawaii. He became an organic coffee farmer, a husband, and a Dad to two beautiful girls.  Each October Blue returns to harvest, process and ship the green coffee to Santa Barbara where it is carefully roasted and sold during the Holiday Season.

1988 Henry became a partner in the business.  Both Henry’s and Blue’s children have worked in the shop over the years, as have nearly 200 of Santa Barbara’s young people.

Laurel Bowling had lent her talented eye for finding sublime gifts and unique cards for over two decades. Her espresso drinks were legendary.

In 2018, the torch was passed from Laurel to Cassey Booth, Blue’s youngest daughter. Cassey has and continues to fill the store with irresistible and unique products for all ages.

Vices & Spices is truly a family owned and operated business serving the Santa Barbara community in the same location for 3 generations. 

Contact Information:

3558 State Street,

Santa Barbara, CA, 93105

805-687-7196

vicesandspices@gmail.com