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About Us
Our Story & History
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Yokayo Ranch is located in the heart of Mendocino County surrounded by the iconic golden rolling hills which are home of the ancient oaks and towering redwoods. The valley floor is filled with organic farms and family run wineries. The property is located on 40 acres and several of those acres are devoted to our farm called Yokayo Roots Farm. We are a wedding venue, event space, vacation rental and a retreat from your everyday life.  Yokayo Ranch is a  place of serenity, a place to let loose and gather with your people. To put it simply, Yokayo Ranch is a magical experience.  We work hard to make you feel at home during your stay and are excited about what we have created and we hope you are too!

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In the beginning, we believe that the Bunk House is the oldest house on the property, built in the early 1900s. The Main House was added in the 1950’s by a hotel developer. The Cabanas and pool were added in the 1970’s.  We know the ranch was owned by the Shortt Family, purchased in 1927.  From the description of the property it is likely that it looked much like it does today.  At that time, the Shortt Family owned 1700 surrounding acres including vineyards and orchards. Mr. Shortt built the barn to house his large flock of sheep. His healthy sheep are credited in part to the amazing, and at the time, very modern barn. The gorgeous stone walls we see when entering the property may have been built by an Italian mason before Shortt arrived. The wood cutout on the front door of the Main House may have been from a time when the property was owned by our neighbors, the Parducci Family.

Meet the Team
Pleasure in the job puts perfection in the work.

Turning Vision Into Reality

Also known around the ranch as "El Jefe", Ian is our Founder and proud Owner of Yokayo Ranch.  When we say he turns visions into a reality, we are not kidding.  Ian is a lifelong entrepreneur with the ability to conquer anything he puts his mind to.  He is a native of Mendocino County, California and is also a proud papa and lover of the earth.

Ian Powell
President/Founder

Making Magic Happen

Rachel is a California native with roots running deep throughout Mendocino County. With extensive experience designing, planning and producing weddings and special events, she not only shares a joy in curating beautiful spaces but also prides herlself on truly listening to the clients needs, and producing for them the experience they envision.

Rachel Powell-Valensky 
Operations Manager &
Wedding Coordinator
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Sincere & Charming

Carrisa is known for her charm and ability to make everyone feel comfortable and at ease.  She has over 5 years of event planning and wedding experience and has been with Yokayo Ranch all along her journey.

Carissa Adams
Wedding Coordinator

Precision & Grace

Valerie is our lead wedding coordinator at Yokayo Ranch and specializes in event production.  She has an innate ability to create a beautiful event with precision and grace.

Valerie Capri
Wedding Coordinator
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