Take two roommates who’ve been friends for 20 years. Add the fact that their Seattle homes are five blocks apart. Mix in one person’s expertise in marketing and design, complemented by the other’s law and engineering background. The result: A recipe for a hand-crafted business that’s as vibrant, robust and enjoyable as its products.

Meet Anne SanGiovanni and Heidi Stender, co-founders of Orasella Maraschino Cherries. Orasella uses local Washington cherries, carefully hand-picked and preserved in maraschino liqueur, free of dye, artificial ingredients and hardening agents. In two years, the duo turned a casual idea into a burgeoning business that is elevating the much-maligned cocktail and dessert garnish into a product of pure joy.