Zach Villanueva and Courtney Villanueva, co-founders of Sage Creamery, built their business on a deep appreciation for community, culture, and quality ingredients. Located on the island of Oahu, their premium ice cream brand began in 2020 during the early days of the pandemic, when uncertainty was high and opportunities were limited.
What started as small batches made in a hot garage quickly evolved into one of the most thoughtful and locally rooted dessert brands in Hawaii.
The Brief History of Hawaii's Best Ice Cream
From the beginning, their vision was clear. Sage Creamery would focus on organic dairy and locally sourced ingredients, creating flavors that not only tasted exceptional but also told the story of the islands.
Their vanilla, for example, is sourced from a local farm, where the beans carry subtle notes influenced by Hawaii’s unique environment—hints of mango, plumeria, and even the ocean breeze. That attention to detail reflects their belief that great ice cream starts with great ingredients.
Their sourcing extends across the islands. Coffee is brought in from local roasters, mangoes are harvested from nearby regions, and honey comes from local producers. Even specialty items like ube crinkle cookies are sourced from small businesses. For Zach and Courtney, ice cream is more than just a product—it’s a way to highlight the work of other local creators and connect customers to the broader community.
Their menu reflects this philosophy. Popular flavors include lemon crunch, cookies and cream, ube crinkle cookie, mango sticky rice, and banana lumpia, a nod to the beloved Filipino dessert. Each flavor is crafted with intention, often inspired by the diverse cultural influences that shape Hawaii. As one of the only companies in the region using organic dairy, Sage Creamery emphasizes the difference customers can taste in the richness and quality of their ice cream base.
As Business Boomed
The journey from garage operation to established business happened quickly but organically. During the pandemic, they began offering free delivery, meeting customers where they were—at home. As demand grew, they expanded into farmers markets, where they built a loyal following. That momentum led to the launch of an ice cream truck, and eventually, a brick-and-mortar location.
Despite the growth, the heart of the business has remained the same. Hawaii’s small-business culture plays a significant role in their identity. Zach often describes ice cream as a “vehicle” for storytelling, allowing them to showcase the people and products that make the islands special. Their collaborations with local vendors are not just business decisions but meaningful partnerships that strengthen the community.
One example of this connection is their relationship with a family-run bakery that supplies elements for their lemon crunch flavor. Inspired by a classic cake, the ice cream incorporates a crunchy topping and bright citrus notes, blending nostalgia with innovation. These kinds of collaborations highlight how Sage Creamery bridges traditional desserts with modern creativity.
A Family's Journey
Zach and Courtney’s personal story is just as meaningful as their business journey. They have known each other for decades, forming a close friendship before eventually becoming a couple. Their shared history adds depth to their partnership, built on trust, support, and a mutual passion for creating something meaningful together.
A deeply personal influence behind Sage Creamery is Zach’s late brother, Daniel. After his passing, the couple found inspiration in his writings and perspective on life. They came to see him as a guiding presence—someone who was always searching for truth and meaning.
Where Does the Name Come From?
The name “Sage” was chosen in his honor, reflecting both wisdom and a sense of spiritual connection. Even the brand’s logo is a tribute to him, symbolizing the lasting impact he had on their lives.
This sense of purpose carries through everything they do. Whether they are visiting farms, working with local roasters, or crafting new flavors, there is a consistent intention behind their work. It is not just about making ice cream, but about creating something that feels authentic, meaningful, and rooted in place.
Why is it So Good?
Their process is hands-on and detail-oriented. From preparing lemon curd with fresh local citrus to blending custard bases with real vanilla bean, every step reflects their commitment to quality. The result is an ice cream that not only tastes rich and flavorful but also feels connected to the land and people of Hawaii.
Aloha Sun Knows Flavor...
Looking ahead, Zach and Courtney continue to balance growth with purpose. As they expand their business, they remain focused on community, storytelling, and craftsmanship. At the same time, they are preparing for a new chapter in their personal lives—starting a family.
For them, building Sage Creamery has always been about more than business success. It is about creating a life that is fulfilling, meaningful, and grounded in what truly matters.
In many ways, Sage Creamery represents the best of what small businesses can be. It is rooted in passion, shaped by community, and driven by a desire to create something genuine. Through their ice cream, Zach and Courtney have found a way to bring people together, celebrate local culture, and honor the stories that inspire them every day.
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