NEWSLETTER ARCHIVE – DECEMBER 2025 | View Email
Who knew that a ring on Instagram could stop me mid-scroll and lead me straight to a new favorite boutique? That’s exactly how I discovered El Paseo’s Songbird & Sage this past summer. The ring reminded me so much of my late father’s watch band that I rushed right out to purchase it — and immediately connected with the shop’s owner, Tatiana Bahu, walking away that day not only with a new ring (and some fun hair clips!) but a new friend.
A newcomer to the desert’s shopping scene, Songbird & Sage opened its doors in September 2024 and has already become a local staple. If you haven’t yet had the pleasure of shopping there, it’s one of El Paseo’s brightest spots — thanks to its vibrantly unique clothing and gift finds (this dress is everything!), cheerful atmosphere, and, most of all, Tatiana herself. Friendly and upbeat (not to mention absolutely hilarious!), she’s created a truly welcoming space, going above and beyond for her customers — staying open late for those who want to pop in after work, hand-delivering pieces to those who can’t get away, and even offering virtual styling.
An Orange County native, Tatiana brings years of fashion experience — as well as wit, warmth, and humor — to everything she does at Songbird & Sage.
Read on to learn more about Tatiana, her fabulous store, fashion journey, and favorite desert destinations.
xo, Lindsay
What First Brought You to the Desert?
When I was a kid, we used to vacation in the desert with my family — fun little road trips and weekend trips. During COVID, my siblings and mom decided we needed a change of scenery and moved out here. Best decision we ever made.
You have an extensive fashion background, tell us about that.
I have worked in retail since I was 16 years old. I’ve always had a passion for fabrics, style, and the art of expressing oneself through clothing. My first retail job was at Mervyn’s. I just loved it! I knew it was the start of a fun future. I have worked for several retailers, like Wet Seal, H&M, and Nordstrom. I moved from the customer side to the corporate side on my journey and worked for several merchandising companies. I held roles from Sales Associate all the way up the food chain to Regional Director, from buyer to corporate store development. Retail is fast-paced and I just loved new store openings — the excitement of the staff showing off all their hard work and the customers enjoying their shopping experience.
What inspired you to open your own boutique?
After 25 years in the industry working for some amazing companies, I decided it was time to do something for myself! It was time to open my own little shop — and I’m just getting started!
You come from a large family of entrepreneurs – how did that influence your own path?
My parents always owned their own businesses — from gas stations to donut shops to Eastern European markets. My father was a serial entrepreneur. He taught us all that hard work pays off. Put your best foot forward and help your community grow. Even when I worked for other companies, I treated it like my own business. I love to see a business succeed and flourish.
How did you come up with the name Songbird and Sage?
I wish I had a fun story here, but my brother-in-law really helped me come up with the name. We sat around the table one April night and came up with Songbird & Sage. It was perfect — expressing my love for songbirds and the color green. There’s something so calm about the sage green color.
Launching on El Paseo was ambitious. What gave you the confidence to take the leap?
During my adult years visiting El Paseo, I noticed there was a gap in the shopping market. There are several beautiful stores on the block, but nothing that reflected my Orange County flair, was affordable, and on trend. I definitely manifested my shop at a young age.
When I arrived in the desert in 2020, El Paseo was shut down and I was still working at my corporate job. In 2023-2024, I decided to start out on my own. I began at the La Quinta farmers market, working with women’s groups from Ghana and bringing in beautiful hand-woven baskets and fans to the market.
El Paseo was coming back to life during that time and I decided it was time to bring something different to the neighborhood. Several people told me it was too ambitious, but I’ve always lived by the “go big or go home” motto — and I love a good challenge. So far, it’s paid off. Customers are enjoying the shop and I love meeting and styling every one of them.
Describe the store’s aesthetic.
Songbird & Sage captures the effortless beauty of modern bohemian style — where laid-back California ease meets timeless sophistication. The boutique’s aesthetic blends natural textures, earthy palettes, and feminine silhouettes with an undercurrent of wanderlust and quiet luxury. Think soft linen dresses, embroidered details, artisan-made accessories, and curated statement pieces that feel both romantic and lived-in. Each collection is designed for the woman who values authenticity and artistry — she’s grounded yet adventurous, polished yet free-spirited. From sunlit neutrals to dusky desert hues, every piece tells a story of ease, intention, and understated elegance.
You stock such unique and beautiful pieces. What’s your process for sourcing them?
Over the years in retail, I’ve come across many different brands, vendors, and artists. I’ve always had a love for something unique — clothing with texture and expression. I buy items for my shop with trends in mind, but I also like to make sure they are accessible to a wide range of customers. There is something about going into a store and falling in love with several pieces and knowing that your friend, mom, or sister would love them, too. I have two sisters and their personal style and love of fashion help inspire the variety in my shop, allowing me to curate a selection that’s diverse yet cohesive.
Favorite season to buy and style for?
That’s a tough question. I love to buy for fall!! I’m jacket-obsessed even in the desert! I’m a maximalist, so I love to layer fashion to create a unique look.
Your customer service goes above and beyond! Where does that level of care come from?
It comes from my own personal expectations and the service I used to provide to my customers in the past. Going above and beyond is second nature. I genuinely enjoy seeing my customers happy and making their day. So often, you go shopping or out to eat and the service is terrible, but the environment, food, or shop is great. Sometimes you attempt a second visit, but usually it’s spoiled by that first impression. I take pride in giving all my customers the best experience every single time they visit.
You’re a one-woman show! How do you balance running every aspect of the business?
It’s definitely a unique dance. Sometimes I don’t have it all balanced, but I trust the process. I really enjoy managing all parts of the shop and it’s incredibly rewarding to watch your hard work unfold into an amazing experience for a customer.
How did you manage to build such a dedicated customer base so quickly?
I’m real — no fluff. I genuinely want to get to know my customers, whether it’s helping them find exactly what they need, enjoying a little window shopping, or just having a chat. Sometimes I don’t have exactly what they’re looking for, but I always know where to send them. I’m here to make their shopping experience the best it can be.
You’re known not just for your style but your wit – where does your hilarious sense of humor come from?
I’m the oldest of three siblings. Sometimes you have to joke a little to get through the day and that definitely helps when it comes to working with customers. And sometimes you just vibe with people and they become an instant friend.
What are some of your best-selling local or California based brands?
Melie Bianco handbags! (The Carrie is my favorite.) I personally love a good handbag. I worked in the accessories division for 10 years of my retail career and a good handbag can make or break an outfit.
Favorite item or brand currently stocked?
My favorite item right now is the Oxana Faux Fur Coat. OMG, I love a good fur moment. This coat is perfect with jeans and a graphic tee — but you can also dress it up for a night out on the town.
Most rewarding part of owning a business in the desert?
Feedback from all the customers. All my hard work has not gone unnoticed.
Best buisness advice for newbie entrepreneurs?
Understand your market. Do some research and observe the customer base.
What part of desert living brings you the most joy?
Honestly, working in L.A. and Orange County, you never have time to look at the sky and take a breath. Life is very go, go, go. I love that at night here, I can see every star in the sky. I can take time to relax and enjoy my environment. I was even able to rescue a pup, my favorite little boy Connery.
Best meal in the Valley?
Mexican food, of course! My mom and I always go to Pueblo Viejo Grill in Indio (pictured)! Yummy, yummy!
Other local favorites?
There are so many amazing places, but my top favorites are: Hundenfolk — the best dog shop in the desert; Thai Smile on El Paseo; Rosemary HiFi (pictured) in Indio (music and wine — yes, please!); and The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens — I love feeding the giraffes!
Thank you Tatiana!
I’m so grateful to have wandered into your store all those months ago — and to have met you.
If you haven’t yet been to Songbird & Sage, dear readers, you’re missing out on some beautiful clothes and unforgettable service.