(Qianhui Yu / For The Times)
- Forget about online shopping and big box stores. It’s fun to shop for holiday gifts in real life at these bricks-and-mortar stores in Los Angeles.
- From Malibu to Pasadena, here are 90 stores where you can find inspired holiday gifts in Los Angeles area.
- When you spend your dollars at a neighborhood store, you are not only buying something special for someone you love but you’re also extending a hand of support to small businesses in L.A.
During the holiday season, the allure of online shopping can be strong. But there’s something special about visiting local stores, with their festive decor and thoughtfully chosen gifts, to get you in the holiday spirit. Another incentive: When you shop locally, you’re not just purchasing a gift for someone you love but you’re also supporting small businesses struggling amid a challenging retail landscape.
So why not savor the unique experience of shopping in person instead of worrying about the arrival of your Amazon purchase? Even if you’re not a “shopper,” making a day of it is fun in a city like Los Angeles, where you can shop for hand block-printed textiles, locally made jewelry and ceramics along Glendale Boulevard in Atwater Village. Or sip a complimentary Turkish coffee while shopping for small-batch blankets, skincare products and cotton loungewear on Colorado Boulevard in Eagle Rock. And if your giftee prefers vintage or secondhand goods to something new, our Los Angeles thrift store, vintage Midcentury Modern and flea market guides are at your service.
More gift guides
In what has become an annual tradition as part of our holiday gift guide, we’ve compiled a list of some of our favorite bricks-and-mortar shops, from Malibu and Long Beach to downtown L.A. and Pasadena. As with all our guides, this is not meant to be a definitive list, and we encourage you to share your favorite places to shop for gifts by sending an email to lisa.boone@latimes.com. We’ll try to include them in next year’s list. So start exploring and sharing your local gems.
Showing Places
Abierto
Malibu Retail
(Lisa Boone / Los Angeles Times)
You would be hard-pressed not to find something special at Amanda Weir’s delightful gift shop inside the Point Dume Village shopping center. Dedicated to “nurturing connection,” according to its website, the store offers small-batch goods by many local small businesses, such as Flora Animalia clothing and Le Feu De L’Eau candles.
Given its location near the beach, it’s not surprising the store stocks sun hats. Other possible gift items you’ll find: cookbooks, cutting boards, apothecary items, cards, palo santo sticks and goodies for kids.
Given its location near the beach, it’s not surprising the store stocks sun hats. Other possible gift items you’ll find: cookbooks, cutting boards, apothecary items, cards, palo santo sticks and goodies for kids.
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Acorn Eagle Rock
Eagle Rock Gift Store
(Lisa Boone / Los Angeles Times)
Packed with houseplants, ceramics and casual apparel, Erin and Laura Tanaka’s Eagle Rock store is a celebration of California indoor-outdoor living. In addition to some statement jewelry, the store features a refreshing variety of accessories that won’t break the bank: Maison Louis Marie and Plant the Box soy candles, Enzo olive oil and crystals. With Chilewich mats for the home, chic water bottles, OLO fragrances and a wide assortment of greeting cards, the store offers something for everyone.
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Alchemy Works
Playa Vista Gift Store
(Ana Ross)
Several years after opening Alchemy Works in the Arts District in downtown Los Angeles, husband and wife Raan and Lindsay Parton added a showroom in Newport Beach and most recently the Free Market at Playa Vista. The stylish showrooms are designed to feel like a well-appointed home where vintage furnishings mix with handwoven linens by Heather Taylor Home, bedding by Morrow Soft Goods, market bags by Apolis and jewelry by many woman-owned brands. Creative director Raan Parton describes it as “a California edit on everything.”
The downtown Los Angeles location is located at Signal, 821 Traction Ave.
The downtown Los Angeles location is located at Signal, 821 Traction Ave.
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Bauer Pottery Showroom
Elysian Valley Retail
(Lisa Boone / Los Angeles Times)
Fans of Bauer’s colorful ringware pottery will find it all here in this open and airy showroom, walking distance from the Los Angeles River bike path in Elysian Valley (a.k.a. Frogtown).
The store stocks a combination of firsts and seconds (which have small flaws) — from coffee mugs and plates to oil jars, vases and planters. This is the place to look if you’ve got a loved one in need of colorful dog and cat bowls (choose from 17 shades) or planters for both indoors and outdoors (Bauer offers free drilling if you’d like drainage holes). In addition to Bauer pottery, owner Janek Boniecki also stocks equally colorful ceramics by Corita Kent that are perfect for holiday gift-giving.
The store stocks a combination of firsts and seconds (which have small flaws) — from coffee mugs and plates to oil jars, vases and planters. This is the place to look if you’ve got a loved one in need of colorful dog and cat bowls (choose from 17 shades) or planters for both indoors and outdoors (Bauer offers free drilling if you’d like drainage holes). In addition to Bauer pottery, owner Janek Boniecki also stocks equally colorful ceramics by Corita Kent that are perfect for holiday gift-giving.
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Belljar
Los Feliz Gift Store
(Lisa Boone / Los Angeles Times)
Located along a bustling strip of Vermont Avenue in Los Feliz, this cozy shop backs up its motto of “good vibes” only. The store features new and vintage clothing for women, candles, locally sourced chocolate and coffee, ceramics and small batch apothecary goods.
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Block Shop Textiles
Atwater Village Retail
(Lisa Boone / Los Angeles Times)
Fans of Lily Stockman and Hopie Stockman Hill’s Bauhaus-inspired wood block printed textiles can shop for napkins, tablecloths and pillows — and even dog beds — at their colorful and inviting Atwater Village showroom.
For the holidays, Block Shop offers pajamas and jackets as well as handwoven rugs. Plus vintage pottery, hand-blown glassware, picnic knives by Opinel and Mason Pearson hairbrushes. The store also stocks pillows and handkerchiefs and Petra Hardware and Hopie Stockman Hill’s collection of little drawer knobs and pulls, inspired by the snail knobs that greet visitors as they open the doors of the Atwater store. The collection has the snail and four other designs: a potato, a dimple, a block and a peapod (available in limited quantities at Block Shop and online at Petra).
For the holidays, Block Shop offers pajamas and jackets as well as handwoven rugs. Plus vintage pottery, hand-blown glassware, picnic knives by Opinel and Mason Pearson hairbrushes. The store also stocks pillows and handkerchiefs and Petra Hardware and Hopie Stockman Hill’s collection of little drawer knobs and pulls, inspired by the snail knobs that greet visitors as they open the doors of the Atwater store. The collection has the snail and four other designs: a potato, a dimple, a block and a peapod (available in limited quantities at Block Shop and online at Petra).
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Broome Street General Store
Silver Lake Gift Store
(Lisa Boone / Los Angeles Times)
Designed like a corner bodega for one-stop shopping, this gift shop offers a unique shopping experience with its diverse range of pantry items and cookbooks for home chefs, candles, wellness products, books and toys. It’s a great place to shop for gift baskets, with its surplus of olive oil, wine, non-alcoholic drinks, tinned fish and chocolates. And at the Silver Lake location, you can purchase a cappuccino from the cafe while you shop.
Also at Platform, 8840 Washington Blvd., Suite 103, Culver City.
Also at Platform, 8840 Washington Blvd., Suite 103, Culver City.
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Kinship Station
Topanga Shop
(Stephanie Breijo / Los Angeles Times)
Kinship Station is a stylish treasure trove. The Pine Tree Circle boutique that fills a former auto shop boasts some of Topanga’s most well-curated knick-knacks, home items, jewelries and other curiosities, which owner Hediyeh Nikbakht collects and sources from locales as local as the canyon and as far-flung as Australia, Brazil, London, Papua New Guinea and Guadalajara.
Find a dizzying array of incense bundles, bath soaks, natural soaps, tinctures, candles and body oils meant to calm or energize, while items for the home — such as handmade ceramics, woven baskets, stained-glass trinkets, brass bowls and heavy, glossy wooden cutting boards — are always in view somewhere, beckoning. The racks of artisanal shawls and leather goods are just as enticing as the cases glowing with gold and gem-dotted necklaces, rings, studs and bracelets. Nikbakht keeps sustainable practices and a fair-trade ecosystem in mind, and she rotates the wares frequently, so drop by often to browse something new on nearly — if not every — visit.
Find a dizzying array of incense bundles, bath soaks, natural soaps, tinctures, candles and body oils meant to calm or energize, while items for the home — such as handmade ceramics, woven baskets, stained-glass trinkets, brass bowls and heavy, glossy wooden cutting boards — are always in view somewhere, beckoning. The racks of artisanal shawls and leather goods are just as enticing as the cases glowing with gold and gem-dotted necklaces, rings, studs and bracelets. Nikbakht keeps sustainable practices and a fair-trade ecosystem in mind, and she rotates the wares frequently, so drop by often to browse something new on nearly — if not every — visit.
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Burro
Venice Gift Store
(Lisa Boone / Los Angeles Times)
Erinn Berkson’s lifestyle store radiates an independent spirit among the many brand-name retailers on trendy Abbot Kinney Boulevard. Perhaps it’s because Berkson opened Burro, which she says takes its name from the “hard-working, loyal burro pioneering across the desert landscape carrying goods from all over,” in 1999, long before Abbot Kinney became a tourist destination.
The sunny boutique is curated to suit everyone on your gift list: Cookbooks and pretty boxes of tinned fish for foodies, games and books for kids, jewelry, hats and casual clothing for women, home goods and ladybug gardens for gardeners and fabulous stationery and cards for everyone. The store features many local brands, including Flamingo Estate, Brightland, jewelry labels Chan Luu and Victoria Cunningham Jewelry, skin-care and olive oil brand Wonder Valley.
The sunny boutique is curated to suit everyone on your gift list: Cookbooks and pretty boxes of tinned fish for foodies, games and books for kids, jewelry, hats and casual clothing for women, home goods and ladybug gardens for gardeners and fabulous stationery and cards for everyone. The store features many local brands, including Flamingo Estate, Brightland, jewelry labels Chan Luu and Victoria Cunningham Jewelry, skin-care and olive oil brand Wonder Valley.
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Clover
Silver Lake Gift Store
(Lisa Boone / Los Angeles Times)
A Silver Lake fixture for more than 20 years, Clover proudly supports small independent brands as well as local designers such as Los Angeles-based Project Social T, which donates a portion of its proceeds to charity every month. On a recent visit, the store had Los Angeles-themed dopp kits and tote bags by Maptote in stock, as well as premium denim, candles and coffee table books. From clothing to greeting cards, apothecary items to jewelry and a corner devoted to kids, the boutique offers something for every budget, not to mention everybody. And don’t miss the room in back, which is filled with housewares, including pillows, tea towels, napkins and cookbooks for homebodies.
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D.L. Rhein
Palms Gift Store
(Brian van der Brug / Los Angeles Times)
D.L. Rhein, which opened in 2006, is the brainchild of Deborah Rhein, who began by crafting unique accessories at home. She expanded over the years into full-scale design and retail. “I love collecting and hunting for beautiful objects,” Rhein says, “old, new, antique and vintage.” For more than 10 years the store has been stocked with a varied mix of hostess gifts, jewelry and furniture, with a special focus now on serving ware and home products. During the holidays, the store features a wide variety of fun ornaments that depict people from RBG to AOC and David Bowie.
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Danny D's Mud Shop
East Hollywood Gift Store
(Lisa Boone / Los Angeles Times)
After making a name for himself throwing pots in his single-car garage in Echo Park, Daniel Dooreck recently opened a bricks-and-mortar store in the heart of East Hollywood, just a few doors down from Saffy’s restaurant. The former restaurateur and noted sommelier describes the plywood-lined studio as “the Japanese-style craftsman shop of my dreams” and offers hand-thrown tumblers, vases, planters, ashtrays and wine glasses that he engraves with cowboy boots, snakes and cactus motifs. His goods, which he produces on-site, balance the craft of pottery with the accessibility of flash tattoos and vintage American West art. On a recent visit, he shared new pendant lamps that move beyond his western themes as well as some surprises: fresh-cut floral bouquets to complement the vases. Keep an eye on Dooreck’s Instagram account for forthcoming carving workshops and a chance to experience his artistic processes firsthand.
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Dekor
Atwater Village Gift Store
(Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times)
Swedish-born interior designer Isabelle Dahlin’s hygge-centric showroom in Atwater Village is filled with an eclectic mix of vintage furnishings, colorful Turkish kilims and pillows and coffee table books. She also stocks her own line of custom furniture and candles that are made in Los Angeles as well as ceramics and a selection of casual women’s apparel.
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Dotter Store
Highland Park Gift Store
(Lisa Boone / Los Angeles Times)
Mother-and-daughter duo Susanne McLean and Annika Huston’s eclectic selection includes American-made women’s clothing, handmade jewelry, shoes, housewares and a wide selection of children’s clothing, games and books.
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Espacio 1839
Boyle Heights Gift Store
(Dania Maxwell / Los Angeles Times)
If you’re searching for a place to feel the pride of Boyle Heights, look no further than Espacio 1839.
Here you can snag custom T-shirts emblazoned with Boyle Heights logos, books by BIPOC authors, handcrafted finds by local artists and every knickknack in between. The store’s walls and ceilings are adorned with colorful art displaying Chicano and Latin American culture and social activism. But what you’ll discover here extends beyond material goods.
The place constantly shape-shifts into a community venue hosting poetry readings, workshops, art exhibits and book readings. Owners Nico Avina and Myra Vasquez, artists themselves, have created a space that centers on community and culture. Its broadcast booth, Radio Espacio, provides a place for youth and other community members to start their audio journey.
Check out CaminArte, its bimonthly art walk featuring local artists and vendors, every second Friday of the month from 6 to 10 p.m.
Here you can snag custom T-shirts emblazoned with Boyle Heights logos, books by BIPOC authors, handcrafted finds by local artists and every knickknack in between. The store’s walls and ceilings are adorned with colorful art displaying Chicano and Latin American culture and social activism. But what you’ll discover here extends beyond material goods.
The place constantly shape-shifts into a community venue hosting poetry readings, workshops, art exhibits and book readings. Owners Nico Avina and Myra Vasquez, artists themselves, have created a space that centers on community and culture. Its broadcast booth, Radio Espacio, provides a place for youth and other community members to start their audio journey.
Check out CaminArte, its bimonthly art walk featuring local artists and vendors, every second Friday of the month from 6 to 10 p.m.
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Esqueleto
Los Feliz Gift Store
(Lisa Boone / Los Angeles Times)
Inside her tiny sun-drenched showrooms in Los Feliz, Oakland-based jewelry designer Lauren Wolf has assembled an eye-catching array of distinctive handcrafted items including custom fine jewelry, art, decorative objects and colorful kilims, hand-painted ceramic bells and dishes by the New York-based MQuan and ceramics by Los Angeles artists Heather Levine, Heather Rosenman and Victoria Morris. Rounding out the mix are wood sculptures by Los Angeles artist Matthew Rosenquist and a selection of Moroccan rugs from Kantara in Eagle Rock.
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East/West Shop
Chinatown Clothing store
(Solomon O. Smith / For The Times)
A small, eclectic outpost in the Far East Plaza, East/West Shop is a hidden treat for those looking for handmade, recycled and “reenergized” clothing crafted by locals. Veteran designers Dennys Han and Erin Wignall Han created the company as a way of battling fashion waste in the garment industry. Through the shop and the brands they carry — East West Stuff, Gentlemen’s Fight Club and Opus Footwear — they aim to educate people about what goes into making clothes. (Erin created an illustration showing the life cycle of a single garment that lives on a curtain in the shop.)
At East/West Shop, you’ll find items like hair clips made of cloisonné (a handpainted enamel) from a Chinatown shop that closed down, handmade quilt coats and vintage sweatshirts embroidered with the brand’s rose logo. It’s best to revisit the store often — upcycled items are often snagged as they’re put up for sale.
At East/West Shop, you’ll find items like hair clips made of cloisonné (a handpainted enamel) from a Chinatown shop that closed down, handmade quilt coats and vintage sweatshirts embroidered with the brand’s rose logo. It’s best to revisit the store often — upcycled items are often snagged as they’re put up for sale.
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Flowerboy Project
Venice Gift Store
(Alon Goldsmith / For The Times)
With Flowerboy Project, which is equal parts coffeehouse, florist and gift shop, partners Sean Knibb and Stella Shirinda have created an intriguing space that offers a feel-good mix for all the senses. On Lincoln Boulevard in Venice, the concept cafe and flower shop offers apparel, jewelry, Venice Organics chocolate, home decor and apothecary items alongside fresh-cut and dried floral arrangements. The cafe serves hot and cold coffee drinks, plus a few specialty drinks such as the Dirty Rose Girl (rose latte) and Lavender Boy (lavender latte), served with flowers on top. Custom flower arrangements are offered at prices ranging from $90 to $175.
Open daily, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Open daily, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
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Gallery Nucleus
Alhambra Art Gallery
(Julie Wolfson)
A haven for pop-culture art, Gallery Nucleus feels like a place you might walk into in Tokyo’s Shinjuku or Shibuya neighborhoods. The gallery includes several Japanese and Japanese American artists on its roster. (This month, anime artist Junko Mizuno returns with her fourth and final food-themed show.) You can find prints and books by Studio Ghibli background painter Yoichi Nishikawa, Mizuno and vintage-style illustrator Nanaco Yashiro. The Pisces in me is pining for Jen Kuroki’s adorable stoneware sculpture, “Ocean.”
While you’re in Alhambra, be sure to head to Yang‘s Kitchen a few blocks away to try the Japanese-style breakfast.
While you’re in Alhambra, be sure to head to Yang‘s Kitchen a few blocks away to try the Japanese-style breakfast.
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General Store
Venice Gift Store
(General Store)
Serena Mitnik-Miller and Mason St. Peter’s Venice boutique places the spotlight on Los Angeles artists, including ceramics by Victoria Morris, BX Ceramics and Mount Washington Pottery and handmade jewelry by Orfeo. You’ll also find skincare by Wonder Valley and handwoven table linens from All Roads Studio, also in Venice. Vintage goods and an assortment of gifts for kids make it a reliable destination for everyone on your holiday list.
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Gibson
Fairfax Gift Store
(Lisa Boone / Los Angeles Times)
It’s easy to get lost in the details of designer Gary Gibson’s showroom, which he recently moved to a more intimate location a few doors down the street. The homey-yet-edgy environment is a good example of what you can’t experience online. See original artworks hung salon style, sink into contemporary furnishings and laugh at the quirky found objects, such as vintage tools, boot signs, bundles of twine and baseballs. Gibson has an excellent eye for what makes a statement and knows how to craft high design that feels like it belongs in a home, not a museum.
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Gjusta Goods and Flower Mart
Venice Retail
(Ross May / Los Angeles Times)
After grabbing some sourdough loaves and baklava croissants at Gjusta, head two doors down to Gjusta Goods, which offers more than just food provisions for people who appreciate marinated olive oil made with chile, garlic and herbs. In addition to locally sourced blooms in the flower shop in back, the Venice bakery sells its own line of ceramics, including mugs, bowls, plates and planters, as well as vintage rugs and linen napkins, and jumpsuits and aprons made in collaboration with Suay Sew Shop in downtown Los Angeles. Gjusta also offers a Pantry Box for $72 that includes marinated olive oil, herbed salt and California sage honey. Gift wrapping is available, and Gjusta will include a brief handwritten gift note if you like. A Deluxe Pantry Box ($130) comes with seven standard pantry goods from the Venice bakery.
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Gold Bug Pasadena
Pasadena Gift Store
(Lisa Boone / Los Angeles Times)
Shop for quirky one-of-a-kind collectibles — fossils, trilobite specimens, framed butterflies, and more — at this family-run store inspired by the Edgar Allen Poe short story “The Gold Bug,” in which an enchanted gold scarab beetle leads the way to buried pirates’ treasure. Located in a bustling shopping district in Old Town Pasadena, Gold Bug features works by more than 100 artists, including botanical prints, contemporary jewelry and odd collectibles. Described by owners Stacey Coleman, his wife Shelley Kimball, and daughter Theodora Coleman as “a contemporary cabinet of curiosities,” the store’s offerings range from handmade lighting by Altadena artist Evan Chambers costing thousands of dollars to giant squid and butterfly punch-out puzzle kits made of birch plywood and mini bejeweled crowns that start at $15.
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Goodies
Atwater Village Gift Store
(Lisa Boone / Los Angeles Times)
It’s hard to resist a gift shop that promises “Unique goods. Nothing over $25.” Budget gifts include wooden goods, among them chopsticks for $5 and teak salad servers for $24, plus marble accessories, minimalist ceramics and candles.
Also at: 5308 2nd St., No. B, Long Beach; 1309 Montana Ave., Santa Monica; 1219 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice; and 333 E 17th St., Unit 20, Costa Mesa.
Also at: 5308 2nd St., No. B, Long Beach; 1309 Montana Ave., Santa Monica; 1219 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice; and 333 E 17th St., Unit 20, Costa Mesa.
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Greenwood Shop
Studio City Gift Store
(Pilar Valtierra)
Situated on a bustling retail strip in Studio City in what longtime locals will remember as Mark’s Tropical Fish, Greenwood Shop offers a nice mix of plants along with ceramics, hand poured candles and incense, home decor and apothecary items by local makers. “My goal is to provide unique gifts for yourself and others,” says owner Kate Nelson. “My focus is on home goods, including one-of-a-kind locally made pottery, jewelry (much of which is created by Southern California women designers such as Maddalena Bearzi, Margaret Solow and Lili T.), apothecary and more. We also have a very extensive collection of ornaments for the holidays.” Keep an eye on the store’s Instagram account for a block party and holiday sale hosted with some of the other businesses on the street. In addition to houseplants, which are available for local delivery via Door Dash and Uber Eats, the store also offers custom succulent planters.
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Haley Solar
Eagle Rock Gift Store
(Lisa Boone / Los Angeles Times)
Warm, colorful and inviting, Haley Solar’s Eagle Rock showroom below her studio on the second floor offers something for everyone on your gift list: locally sourced small-batch clothing, nail polish, plants, makeup and jewelry. Just outside the shop’s backdoor, visitors can step outside and enjoy the pet-friendly patio of next-door neighbor Muddy Paw Coffee.
Also in Silver Lake: 3318 Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90026.
Also in Silver Lake: 3318 Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90026.
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Heath Ceramics
Fairfax Gift Store
(Lisa Boone/Los Angeles Times)
In addition to its noted line of handmade ceramics and tile, the longtime Beverly Boulevard store is a safe bet for grab-and-go gifts spanning ceramic bud vases ($32) in a variety of colors to fun tea towels, olive oils, candle holders, teas, soaps and books.
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Highlow Gift Shop
Torrance Gift Store
(Lisa Boone / Los Angeles Times)
Tucked away in a nondescript strip mall in Torrance, Sonya Gallardo’s thoughtfully curated gift shop is a delightful surprise among the longtime businesses and Japanese restaurants at Van Art Square (formerly Del Wee Plaza).
In addition to showcasing her Highlow Jewelry line, Gallardo — a former buyer for the Los Angeles-based lifestyle brand Poketo — stocks items by independent makers, including handcrafted wooden objects by Koppa Wood, beautiful linen tea towels by Elana Gabrielle, Maum Co and P.F. Candle Co. candles, stationery and cards, plus gifts for children. “Para esos momentos especiales” is her guiding principle at Highlow Gift, shown by the unique objects she selects.
There’s also a great selection of affordable pantry goods, from Momofuku chili crisp to taco sauce, yuzu vinegar, Woon teas and custom coffee mugs that read “Somebody in Gardena Loves Me.” (There’s a Torrance version too.) Gallardo also offers jewelry services, for which reservations are recommended.
In addition to showcasing her Highlow Jewelry line, Gallardo — a former buyer for the Los Angeles-based lifestyle brand Poketo — stocks items by independent makers, including handcrafted wooden objects by Koppa Wood, beautiful linen tea towels by Elana Gabrielle, Maum Co and P.F. Candle Co. candles, stationery and cards, plus gifts for children. “Para esos momentos especiales” is her guiding principle at Highlow Gift, shown by the unique objects she selects.
There’s also a great selection of affordable pantry goods, from Momofuku chili crisp to taco sauce, yuzu vinegar, Woon teas and custom coffee mugs that read “Somebody in Gardena Loves Me.” (There’s a Torrance version too.) Gallardo also offers jewelry services, for which reservations are recommended.
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Hightide Store DTLA
Downtown L.A. Home Goods
(Julie Wolfson)
Opened in Row DTLA in 2018, the Los Angeles shop is Hightide’s second location — the first being in Japan on the island of Kyushu in Fukuoka. It’s the place to go for beautifully designed office, home and school supplies, as well as clothing and accessories. Look for rubber-soled Moonstar Shoes, supremely comfortable Obscure Socks and totes with Noritake illustrations. If you’re a notebook lover, check out Penco’s gridded notebooks with soft covers. They come in just about every color.
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Homage Pasadena
Pasadena Gift Store
(Lisa Boone / Los Angeles Times)
Owner Jill Pearson grew up in Monterey Park and strives to highlight unique gifts by emerging artists from Los Angeles. Her Pasadena shop, which recently expanded, is stocked with everything you might need for gift giving, including ceramics, candles, unique playing cards, incense and handmade jewelry. There is much to peruse here, including a great selection of books, and Pearson also stocks many small items that are ideal for stocking stuffers, such as stickers, hair clips, incense, and Hemleva rainbow-making suncatchers.
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House of Intuition
Echo Park Gift Store
(Lisa Boone / Los Angeles Times)
You can’t help but smile when you walk into Marlene Vargas and Alex Naranjo’s longtime metaphysical store and are greeted by a sign that reads, “Your Intuition Led You Here.” Even the most cynical gift recipient will find it hard to resist a manifestation candle or a specialized energy box for their zodiac sign. You’ll also find organic essential oil kits, crystals and candles.
There are additional locations in L.A. County: 5148 York Blvd., Highland Park; 7449 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood; 14520 Ventura Blvd., Sherman Oaks; 5018 E. 2nd St., Long Beach; and 5223 Lankershim Blvd., North Hollywood.
There are additional locations in L.A. County: 5148 York Blvd., Highland Park; 7449 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood; 14520 Ventura Blvd., Sherman Oaks; 5018 E. 2nd St., Long Beach; and 5223 Lankershim Blvd., North Hollywood.
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Household by Nickey Kehoe
Fairfax Gift Store
(Lisa Boone / Los Angeles Times)
Interior designers Todd Nickey and Amy Kehoe’s Household showroom, located next door to their home furnishings store, offers pottery, candles, plants, locally made apothecary items, books and the brand’s signature bedding and pillows.
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Huset
Venice Gift Store
(Lisa Boone / Los Angeles Times)
With an emphasis on Scandinavian design, Huset stocks colorful textiles from tea towels to throw blankets, home decor including glassware and cutting boards, jewelry, clothing and kids’ items by more than 60 designers.
If you can’t find what you’re looking for, there’s always the self-serve Swedish candy and savory snacks.
If you can’t find what you’re looking for, there’s always the self-serve Swedish candy and savory snacks.
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LA Home Farm
Glassell Park Gift Store
(Lisa Boone / Los Angeles Times)
At their Glassell Park neighborhood grocery and farmer’s market called LA Homefarm, Lauri Kranz and Dean Kuipers offer everything from high-end gifts to produce.
Shopping is fun here, whether you’re looking for art, truffle oil or handcrafted ceramics by local potters. If you can’t decide on a gift, Kranz and the staff are incredibly helpful at creating custom gift baskets that will leave their recipients swooning or, in my friend’s case, with happy tears.
Shopping is fun here, whether you’re looking for art, truffle oil or handcrafted ceramics by local potters. If you can’t decide on a gift, Kranz and the staff are incredibly helpful at creating custom gift baskets that will leave their recipients swooning or, in my friend’s case, with happy tears.
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Lake
Silver Lake Gift Store
(Lisa Boone / Los Angeles Times)
This high-end clothing store offers beautiful bohemian pieces by independent brands such as Xirena, Apiece Apart and Toit Volant, and many gift items are available on shelves and tables throughout the space. In addition to jewelry by Los Angeles-based Jennie Kwon, be sure to check out the back room where the store stocks apothecary goods by Circular Living and Living Libations, robes by Block Shop Textiles and gifts for kids.
It’s easy to make a day of it on this stretch of Silver Lake Boulevard, with Now Voyager and Müsh across the street, OK down the block and Botanica Restaurant and Market next door.
It’s easy to make a day of it on this stretch of Silver Lake Boulevard, with Now Voyager and Müsh across the street, OK down the block and Botanica Restaurant and Market next door.
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Late Sunday Afternoon
Venice Gift Store
(Thomas Brodahl)
All the scarves, ascots, pocket squares, and bandanas in this Venice store are handcrafted from locally sourced dead-stock fabrics and are knotted and blessed. The store also offers home goods, books, hats and hoodies, baby blankets, candles, jewelry and custom requests. “Our vision is that through the scarves we remind each other to take a moment each day to bless ourselves and to speak kinder to ourselves,” says head of operations and growth Deanna Jubran .”It’s a message we are working to spread with each and every one of our guests.”
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Lawson-Fenning
Hancock Park Gift Store
(Jay Clendenin / Los Angeles Times)
On the second floor of Glenn Lawson and Grant Fenning’s Melrose furniture showroom, the designers have a shop within a shop, where the shelves and tables are artfully stocked with functional and decorative accessories, the vast majority of which are made in L.A. The showroom features limited-release ceramics by locals Victoria Morris, Mt. Washington Pottery, Heather Rosenman and BZippy as well as tabletop items, pillows and other gifts.
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Leanna Lin's Wonderland
Eagle Rock Gift Store
(Lisa Boone / Los Angeles Times)
Walking into Leanna Lin Fong’s gift shop and art gallery is like walking into a colorful birthday party. Established in 2010, the store focuses on brands that will make you smile, including art, accessories, jewelry, collectible toys, stationery, books and home goods by Miss Mindy, Genevieve Santos, Horrible Adorables, Kidrobot, Meri Meri, Momiji, Naoshi, Paddywax, Studio Ghibli, Tokidoki and more.
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Lost & Found
Hollywood Gift Store
(Lisa Boone / Los Angeles Times)
Owner Jamie Rosenthal opened Lost & Found in 2000 as a single storefront on Yucca Street in Hollywood. Now she has six storefronts in a row along Yucca and a Santa Monica showroom that offers men’s and women’s clothing, home goods-- including a wide variety of colorful pillows from around the world -- leather accessories, a children’s boutique and fine jewelry. If you’re looking for local brands, the store also stocks its own line of Lost & Found candles, leather goods, paper notebooks and its popular peace tees. Gift wrapping is available.
The Santa Monica showroom is at 2230 Main St.
The Santa Monica showroom is at 2230 Main St.
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Luca
Highland Park Gift Store
(Tracy Levy)
In an effort to create a nontoxic, sustainable alternative to commercial drugstores, Judith Goldstein opened what she describes as “a clean grocery store,” filled with nontoxic nail polish, skincare, pet goods and house cleaning products. Many of the independent low-waste brands, such as Fat and the Moon, Yassi’s Butta and 123 Farm are based in L.A. and California.
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Lucky Penny General Store
Santa Monica Gift Store
(Lisa Boone / Los Angeles Times)
Even if you’re not looking for a gift for someone, you’ll leave with something that caught your eye at this colorful gift shop in Santa Monica. (Wedged between a Thai restaurant and a spa, you’ll spot it by the California poppies and Little Free Library out front).
Marieka Van Tilburg’s mission is to curate a diverse range of brands that share her commitment to ethical sourcing while offering handmade, one-of-a-kind products. From Cat Tarot cards, uplifting stickers and manifestation journals to pickleball apparel and gifts for the Swiftie and Dolly Parton fans in your life, there’s something for everyone spanning all price points. There’s also a charm bracelet and necklace station where you can create your own jewelry. Simply grab a tray and pick your chain and charms. And they’ll assemble it for you. All charms are $3. Bracelets are $12, and necklaces are $15.
Marieka Van Tilburg’s mission is to curate a diverse range of brands that share her commitment to ethical sourcing while offering handmade, one-of-a-kind products. From Cat Tarot cards, uplifting stickers and manifestation journals to pickleball apparel and gifts for the Swiftie and Dolly Parton fans in your life, there’s something for everyone spanning all price points. There’s also a charm bracelet and necklace station where you can create your own jewelry. Simply grab a tray and pick your chain and charms. And they’ll assemble it for you. All charms are $3. Bracelets are $12, and necklaces are $15.
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Made by DWC Cafe and Gift Boutique
Downtown L.A. Gift Store
(Made by DWC)
Made by DWC, the Skid Row gift shop launched by the Downtown Women’s Center in Los Angeles in 2011, offers handmade gifts — soaps, bath salts, soy candles and greeting cards — crafted by women on L.A.’s skid row as part of a vocational training program.
All profits from the Made store and cafe, which sells organic coffee, smoothies, salads and pastries from Homeboy Industries, help fund the center’s career training and mentorship programs. Note: The gift shop is not open on weekends.
All profits from the Made store and cafe, which sells organic coffee, smoothies, salads and pastries from Homeboy Industries, help fund the center’s career training and mentorship programs. Note: The gift shop is not open on weekends.
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Marz
South Pasadena Gift Store
(Lisa Boone / Los Angeles Times)
Jasa Cocke’s South Pasadena gift shop is stocked with unusual items, including books, candles, papers, hand-milled French soaps, textiles from India, baby accessories, games, toys and vintage finds. Located on a charming stretch of specialty stores along Mission Street in South Pasadena, treat yourself to an espresso at Two Kids Coffee, a few doors down, to fortify you while you shop.
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Merchant
Santa Monica Vintage store
(Lisa Boone / Los Angeles Times)
Walking into Merchant in Santa Monica is like walking into an artist’s enclave packed with vintage furniture, antiques, contemporary ceramics and art.
“I wanted it to look like a house,” says co-owner Denise Portmans, who runs the store, along with an Atwater Village location, with her artist daughter Sara Marlowe Hall. “I like things that are a little unusual.”
The stores are an homage to Portmans’ mother, an artist and ceramicist, and they are stocked with Midcentury Modern furniture, vintage Moroccan rugs, contemporary ceramics from Paris and Italy, and goods by local artists such as Heather Rosenman and All Roads Studio. On a recent visit to the Santa Monica store, prices ranged from $120 for a wooden wine rack to $2,500 for a vintage leather safari chair. Portmans also is open to making deals.
The second showroom, Merchant Modern East, is at 3127 Glendale Blvd. in Atwater Village.
“I wanted it to look like a house,” says co-owner Denise Portmans, who runs the store, along with an Atwater Village location, with her artist daughter Sara Marlowe Hall. “I like things that are a little unusual.”
The stores are an homage to Portmans’ mother, an artist and ceramicist, and they are stocked with Midcentury Modern furniture, vintage Moroccan rugs, contemporary ceramics from Paris and Italy, and goods by local artists such as Heather Rosenman and All Roads Studio. On a recent visit to the Santa Monica store, prices ranged from $120 for a wooden wine rack to $2,500 for a vintage leather safari chair. Portmans also is open to making deals.
The second showroom, Merchant Modern East, is at 3127 Glendale Blvd. in Atwater Village.
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Mohawk General Store Woman
Silver Lake Retail
(Lisa Boone / Los Angeles Times)
As Sunset Junction in Silver Lake becomes populated with more chain stores, this longtime boutique remains steadfast in its independent spirit. It offers a unique selection of apparel and accessories by California brands and is a haven for designer apparel for men and women. The store also stocks a variety of items that are perfect for gift giving, including apothecary goods by Noto Botanics, Flamingo Estate and Wonder Valley, as well as jewelry, socks, candles and perfume.
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Müsh
Silver Lake Gift Store
(Lisa Boone / Los Angeles Times)
Owner Michelle van der Heijden’s tiny storefront is jam-packed with wonderful gift ideas, from the latest cookbooks to vintage jewelry, crystals and ceramics. She also sells vintage furniture online.
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NicSon Mercantile
Highland Park Gift Store
(Lisa Boone / Los Angeles Times)
In York Boulevard’s hip shopping district, NicSon Mercantile is part retail store, part design studio built on the Sonny Boy brand. It’s a great place to pick up limited-edition merchandise for the creative soul in your life. The store stocks art, clothing, jewelry, home goods and greeting cards by local brands Estevan Oriol, Mike Giant, Tristan Eaton, Risk Rock, Gustavo Rimada, Lizz Lopez, Spitfire Girl, Bandits and P.F. Candle Co.
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Now Voyager
Silver Lake Gift Store
(Lisa Boone / Los Angeles Times)
At her cozy Silver Lake store, Now Voyager, Los Angeles interior designer Wendy Haworth offers pillows, vintage ceramics, home decor and ceramics that she and designer Michael Towey throw in a ceramics studio behind the shop. Haworth plans to use her Silver Lake Boulevard space as a design studio and gift shop, with an ever-changing inventory of vintage pieces, art and accessories. It’s open by appointment.
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OK
West Hollywood Gift Store
(Lisa Boone / Los Angeles Times)
Larry Schaffer’s lifestyle store, now in several locations, offers a wide range of gifts spanning handmade jewelry and books to Heather Rosenman ceramics, barware and decorative housewares. On a recent visit, Schaffer’s keen eye for unique gifts, such as the pot holders and $10 milagros hearts made from fabric scraps by Christina Kim’s Dosa, were on display. In a nice touch, the store offers pre-wrapped grab and go gifts during the holidays.
Other locations are at 1716 Silver Lake Blvd. in Silver Lake and 2413 Main St. in Santa Monica. A Velvet by Graham and Spencer/OK store is at 13020 San Vicente Blvd. in Brentwood.
Other locations are at 1716 Silver Lake Blvd. in Silver Lake and 2413 Main St. in Santa Monica. A Velvet by Graham and Spencer/OK store is at 13020 San Vicente Blvd. in Brentwood.
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OddBird Co.
Eagle Rock Retail
(Lisa Boone / Los Angeles Times)
Shop for handwoven Turkish textiles and size-inclusive loungewear while sipping complimentary Turkish coffee at Ceren Alkaç-Lee’s serene showroom in Eagle Rock.
The Turkish native started OddBird in 2016 to showcase her homeland’s traditional textiles made from 100% natural fibers.
In addition to beautiful small batches of Turkish towels, robes, blankets, pillows and scarves, Alkaç-Lee stocks gifts from Los Angeles brands such as Flamingo Estate and Loam Candles. Loungewear spans sizes XS to 5X. There are also small handcrafted cups and saucers for $40, incense, handmade leather goods and curated gift boxes.
The Turkish native started OddBird in 2016 to showcase her homeland’s traditional textiles made from 100% natural fibers.
In addition to beautiful small batches of Turkish towels, robes, blankets, pillows and scarves, Alkaç-Lee stocks gifts from Los Angeles brands such as Flamingo Estate and Loam Candles. Loungewear spans sizes XS to 5X. There are also small handcrafted cups and saucers for $40, incense, handmade leather goods and curated gift boxes.
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Paper Plant
Chinatown Paper goods
(Julie Wolfson)
Friedia Niimura, who worked in Tokyo as a model and actress, often browsed Japanese stationery shops and dreamed about having her own line of cards one day. That dream came true — she’s the creator of New Moon Paper Goods and the owner of Paper Plant, a stationery store in Chinatown.
At Paper Plant, you can find washi tape adorned with illustrations of popular Asian snacks (tiny Yakult and Pocky — adorable!), Japanese rubber stamps featuring cats in mushroom hats and the ever-popular Le Pen pens in every color. I especially love the stationery sets that come with paper, envelopes and stickers. Those would always be my go-to gift to bring home from Japan.
While you’re there, be sure to order a coffee or tea drink from Thank You Coffee in the same space and check out Pearl River Deli for Cantonese food next door.
At Paper Plant, you can find washi tape adorned with illustrations of popular Asian snacks (tiny Yakult and Pocky — adorable!), Japanese rubber stamps featuring cats in mushroom hats and the ever-popular Le Pen pens in every color. I especially love the stationery sets that come with paper, envelopes and stickers. Those would always be my go-to gift to bring home from Japan.
While you’re there, be sure to order a coffee or tea drink from Thank You Coffee in the same space and check out Pearl River Deli for Cantonese food next door.
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Pergolina Shop
Toluca Lake Gift Store
(Lisa Boone / Los Angeles Times)
After her closing her longtime gift shop in May, Paulanna Cuccinello opens a pop-up for the holidays right across the street from her Toluca Lake shop of 35 years. The pop-up offers her signature “treasures that make life more beautiful” from around the world including jewelry, European soaps, handwoven throws from Scotland, room diffusers from Italy and masks handmade in Venice.
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Phoebe Peacock
Burbank Gift Store
(Lisa Boone / Los Angeles Times)
The parasols hanging from the ceiling at Jennifer Hardaway’s charming Burbank gift shop are your first indication that you will find something fun and unexpected inside. Hardway offers a wide variety of goods including her own line of KleanSpa perfume and body products (you can even book a session and create your custom scent based on your personal selections), vintage glassware, candles, incense and home decor. On a recent visit, the store featured an entire wall devoted to tea, including specialty looseleaf types, vintage tea cups, honey sticks and other tea-themed gifts.
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HYA
West Adams Gift Store
(Kemal Cilengir / For The Times)
This colorful gift and decor store comes from co-owners Lene and Mark Houck, who also own the sandwich shop next door. At HYA, an acronym for “here you are,” there’s plenty to tempt you across toys, books, kitchenware, cards and other adorable items, many of them handmade by local artists. After you’re done shopping, pop over to the shaded patio next door to dig into Danish-style open-face sandwiches and hot dogs.
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Potted
Atwater Village Retail
(Lisa Boone / Los Angeles Times)
Nearly 19 years after it opened in Atwater Village, Potted closed its doors in 2023, only to reopen a year later under new ownership in a location just down the street from the original garden store. The new Potted is a rambling shopping experience with housewares and garden gifts arranged in a quirky series of rooms that include a pinball machine, a jukebox and an indoor fireplace. Although you’ll find outdoor and indoor plants, including rare varieties, the store also offers fresh floral bouquets, handcrafted ceramics by L.A. artists Lisa Barnet, Olivia Snow and Ian Wolterstorff, cards and assorted china. If you are looking for something for the plant lover in your life, there are plenty of options, from colorful ceramic pots to garden gloves, pruning shears and pollinator seed pops.
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Prism Boutique
Long Beach Gift Store
(Prism)
Dayna Mance has been highlighting small, independently owned brands since opening her boutique in the heart of Long Beach’s historic Belmont Heights in 2013. Expect vintage and modern clothing, home goods by local designers like P.F. Candle Co., Baggu and Claystreet pottery. Mance also offers “Prism Take Care” specialty gift sets.
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Pygmy Hippo Shoppe
Fairfax Gift Store
(Lisa Boone/Los Angeles Times)
Founded in 2010, Pygmy Hippo is an irreverent boutique where you can shop for “Nude and Naughty” gift sets, zodiac and magic-minded items, vintage collectibles and rare books and zines. On a recent visit, we spotted a Raymond Chandler Map of Los Angeles, vintage hand-painted ashtrays from the 1940’s and Viewmaster reels alongside “Mystery Bags” for $18 filled with a mix of new and vintage items (not appropriate for children) and a surplus of fun greeting cards and jewelry.
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Retreat
Pasadena Gift Store
(Lisa Boone/Los Angeles Times)
At her warm and inviting Pasadena boutique, Diane Staples encourages visitors to shop and try on all the jewelry they’d like with no obligation or pressure. Her specialty store focuses on artisanal goods that you won’t find elsewhere. On a recent visit to the Holly Street store, unique gifts included handcrafted monster soap that shrinks until you find a monster at the end, Mercury Retrograde kits, handstamped vintage silver-plated spoons and reliquary boxes made of copper.
Also located at 950 Mission St. in South Pasadena.
Also located at 950 Mission St. in South Pasadena.
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Rolling Greens
Culver City Drought-tolerant plants
(Lisa Boone / Los Angeles Times)
The garden and home design flagship in Culver City, which rests on 2 acres, offers indoor and outdoor plants, succulents, planters and home decor. Owners Greg Salmeri and Laurie Resnick travel the world to shop for home and garden goods. Customers can create their own arrangement at the store’s Arrangement Bar.
Also at 7505 Beverly Blvd., Los Angeles; 12833 Ventura Blvd. #145, Studio City; and Lincoln Blvd., Santa Monica.
Also at 7505 Beverly Blvd., Los Angeles; 12833 Ventura Blvd. #145, Studio City; and Lincoln Blvd., Santa Monica.
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Sachi.LA
Del Rey Coffeehouse
(Lisa Boone / Los Angeles Times)
Influenced by their Japanese heritage, sisters Sachi and Chiyo Hartley opened their Del Rey coffeehouse in 2018 to share “Sachi” — the Japanese kanji character meaning happiness, fortune or good luck — with their community. The coffeehouse, which serves a wide variety of coffee drinks including matcha and the Sachi Special, a signature cold brew with oat milk and vanilla syrup, is just the beginning.
Adjacent to the coffeehouse, which also serves pastries, the sisters have opened a retail space that is a treasure trove filled with houseplants, gifts, vintage clothes and plant accessories such as bud vases and planters. They also host occasional pop-ups, so keep an eye on their Instagram for updates.
Open daily, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Adjacent to the coffeehouse, which also serves pastries, the sisters have opened a retail space that is a treasure trove filled with houseplants, gifts, vintage clothes and plant accessories such as bud vases and planters. They also host occasional pop-ups, so keep an eye on their Instagram for updates.
Open daily, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
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Score the perfect present for the gift-worthy kid in your life at Flicka
Windsor Square Clothing store
(Shelby Moore / For The Times)
If there’s a gift-worthy baby, toddler or preschooler in your life, you already may have experienced this delightful kids’ shop that’s been a fixture on Larchmont Boulevard for more than 30 years. If you haven’t, go now, because those deserving little ones won’t be little forever. Case in point: owner Kristen Sato, whose mother opened the Dutch doors of this children’s clothing and toy boutique in 1992 and passed it along to the next generation two decades later.
Sato estmates that 80% of her boutique’s business is gift-related and says that among the brands customers are currently making a beeline for are Esme (darling allover-print pajamas), Rowdy Sprout (vintage rock ’n’ roll T-shirts for tykes) and Spanish kids’ brand Mayoral. (She also said “anything slimy and squishy” seems to sell well, including “slime and stress balls.” Make of that what you will.) A fairly recent addition to the offerings is a rack of vintage denim — with options for both children and adults — that you’ll find just inside the front door to the left, which means you can snap up a tiny Morado Designs T-shirt emblazoned with “Larchmont is my happy place” and a pair of well-worn kids’ Levi’s and have the cutest-ever mini-me moment in the bag. (Or gift bag, as the case may be — they’ll gift-wrap your purchase gratis, complete with a spray of dried flowers.)
Sato estmates that 80% of her boutique’s business is gift-related and says that among the brands customers are currently making a beeline for are Esme (darling allover-print pajamas), Rowdy Sprout (vintage rock ’n’ roll T-shirts for tykes) and Spanish kids’ brand Mayoral. (She also said “anything slimy and squishy” seems to sell well, including “slime and stress balls.” Make of that what you will.) A fairly recent addition to the offerings is a rack of vintage denim — with options for both children and adults — that you’ll find just inside the front door to the left, which means you can snap up a tiny Morado Designs T-shirt emblazoned with “Larchmont is my happy place” and a pair of well-worn kids’ Levi’s and have the cutest-ever mini-me moment in the bag. (Or gift bag, as the case may be — they’ll gift-wrap your purchase gratis, complete with a spray of dried flowers.)
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Giant Robot store and GR2 Gallery
Sawtelle Art Gallery
(Jess Stephens / For The Times)
For the uninitiated, it’s easy to miss the Giant Robot store with its faded red neon sign and its across-the-street sister gallery, GR2, with its even humbler blue sign. But make no mistake, this brand — or movement, rather — makes itself known in Sawtelle and beyond.
Often cited as the birthplace of Asian pop culture products (as well as the launching ground of the Uglydoll empire), the Giant Robot store opened in 2001, growing out of a magazine created by Eric Nakamura and Martin Wong.
The store showcases quirky-cool art pieces, blind boxes, plushies, home goods, toys, anime merch and gifts that will delight the young and young at heart. GR2 features art exhibitions from both emerging artists and art legends such as Katsuya Terada, Luke Chueh and David Choe. From Saturday through August 19, fans of whimsical pop toys can check out the work of Erick Martinez, whose handcrafted wooden figures — including a happy robot and a TV set featuring a green monster — are colorful delights. “We’re not just a business — we’re part of the community,” says Nakamura, who still owns and runs Giant Robot today. “These art events bring people together.”
Often cited as the birthplace of Asian pop culture products (as well as the launching ground of the Uglydoll empire), the Giant Robot store opened in 2001, growing out of a magazine created by Eric Nakamura and Martin Wong.
The store showcases quirky-cool art pieces, blind boxes, plushies, home goods, toys, anime merch and gifts that will delight the young and young at heart. GR2 features art exhibitions from both emerging artists and art legends such as Katsuya Terada, Luke Chueh and David Choe. From Saturday through August 19, fans of whimsical pop toys can check out the work of Erick Martinez, whose handcrafted wooden figures — including a happy robot and a TV set featuring a green monster — are colorful delights. “We’re not just a business — we’re part of the community,” says Nakamura, who still owns and runs Giant Robot today. “These art events bring people together.”
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The Good Liver
Downtown L.A. Home store
(Silvia Rázgová / For The Times)
The Good Liver home goods shop feels like a gallery, with displays of Japanese glassware and knives, British teapots, Korean incense holders and more. The personal selection of artisan crafts collected by founder Bert Youn might also include wood bird callers, porcelain figurines, brass flower vases and steel fabric scissors, as well as Teutonic soaps and U.S.-made leather work gloves.
An elegant tea bar in one corner of the store is a fairly recent addition, featuring teas from Kettl and occasional tastings and classes. And Youn keeps expanding. If you’re a fan of City Pop — the style of Japanese pop music associated with emerging Western influences in the 1970s and ’80s — newly custom-built shelving holds a collection of LPs. And through a side door, a new stationery shop is now connected to the store.
An elegant tea bar in one corner of the store is a fairly recent addition, featuring teas from Kettl and occasional tastings and classes. And Youn keeps expanding. If you’re a fan of City Pop — the style of Japanese pop music associated with emerging Western influences in the 1970s and ’80s — newly custom-built shelving holds a collection of LPs. And through a side door, a new stationery shop is now connected to the store.
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Wüm Essential Elements
Topanga Shop
(Courtney Rawls / Wüm)
Pine Tree Circle’s Wüm is a bit like a sunny, modern-day apothecary crossed with a compact vintage boutique. With a collection of teas, herbs, tinctures, candles and other items meant to promote wellness for the self and the home, as well as retro and well-curated glassware, kettles, books and blankets, you’ll want to pore over every shelf. Cubbies of bagged dried herbs and tea blends — some hyper-local, such as canyon-grown nettles and jujubes — line the wall, while glass jars hold dried yarrow, heather and more for bulk orders. The local ethos extends beyond the dried goods, as does a focus on sourcing from women-owned and sustainable-practice purveyors. Owners Coco Rawls and Mina Shahvali also infuse and sell house-made tinctures in flavors such as lemon zest and green tea or hibiscus, elderberry and apple cider vinegar, which can be taken by the dropper or added to tonic or soda water.
“Everything that’s here is a pretty small cluster of what I think are the essential herbs that you would need in a home apothecary,” said Rawls. “There’s hundreds and thousands of different plants, from ayurvedic, traditional Chinese medicine, Latin America, Africa, but these are the ones that I think are central.”
“Everything that’s here is a pretty small cluster of what I think are the essential herbs that you would need in a home apothecary,” said Rawls. “There’s hundreds and thousands of different plants, from ayurvedic, traditional Chinese medicine, Latin America, Africa, but these are the ones that I think are central.”
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Shout and About
Echo Park Gift Store
(Tamara Houghten)
Tamara and Russell Houghten’s tiny Echo Park store is an urban oasis jam-packed with gifts by local brands and independent makers as well as Compartes chocolates, kids goods and jewelry. Always a reliable source for terrific greeting cards, the store also stocks a selection of stunning potted plants.
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Soap Plant/Wacko
Los Feliz Gift Store
(Lisa Boone/Los Angeles Times )
Since 1971, Billy Shire’s gift shop on Hollywood Boulevard has been a beloved part of the community, offering an eclectic range of pop-culture ephemera (Iggy Pop action figures), novelties (beetles in resin), housewares (colorful oil cloth) and gifts (hedgehog nail brushes). Parts bookstore, soap shop, art gallery and gift shop, the 6,500 square foot store features light-hearted inventory, from Yayoi Kusama puzzles to toilet lights and Mini Twister with finger socks games, that will put a smile on your face as you shop.
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Spitfire Girl
Los Feliz Gift Store
(Lisa Boone/Los Angeles Times )
Kristin Scott’s long-standing store is a haven for unique gifts, from mystical ritual kits to handcrafted fragrances and home goods with a humorous edge (heart lamps and turn-of-the-century-inspired embroidered pillows). Scott also offers a diverse range of custom gift boxes, from the Great Outdoors to the Witches’ Spell. It’s a great place to shop for stocking stuffers like True Crime Trivia, Emergency Eyebrows, or tiny Tarot decks and enamel pins, as well as unique cards and gifts for kids. If you’re shopping for someone hard to please, Scott’s store offers a variety of options. (Gift wrapping too).
Also at 7401 Melrose Ave.
Also at 7401 Melrose Ave.
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Stark Studio
Silver Lake Gift Store
(Lisa Boone/Los Angeles Times )
Stark Studio, a Silver Lake place specializing in face and body services like waxing, has a delightful gift shop in front that offers goods from mostly local makers. The selection of apothecary items, jewelry, kids’ items and accessories includes Los Angeles-based brands Wild Yonder Botanicals, Maya Brenner, Carrie Hoffman, Kin & Kind and Maptote.
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Stay Home Friend
Burbank Gift Store
(Lisa Boone / Los Angeles Times)
Stay Home Friend, formerly Mindfulnest, in Burbank was designed to be a mindful way to shop. “We support local artists and small American companies,” says owner Amanda Vernon. “We buy directly from artists who speak to us.” The sunny store features works by more than 100 artists who hand-make jewelry, pottery and prints, including many irreverent candles, stickers, tea towels and cards for a dose of humor during the holidays.
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Sumi's
Los Feliz Gift Store
(Lisa Boone / Los Angeles Times)
Store owner Sumi Siegel’s warm and inviting gift shop, in Los Feliz Village since 2014, specializes in handmade and small-production goods that are ethically made. Stop by Sumi’s after catching a movie at the Los Feliz 3 or shopping at Skylight Books or one of Vermont Avenue’s many independent stores, and you’ll find jewelry, cards, ceramics and original artworks, including Polaroids of neighborhood dogs. Bonus: Store staff have been known to pass out dog treats.
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Mavven Mercantile
Pacific Palisades Wellness Center
(Maggie Shannon / For The Times)
Equal parts curated boutique and wellness center, Mavven Mercantile opened in March and is hosting yoga classes ($30), sound baths ($45) and a full moon ceremony ($90). Owner Lisa Waters also has rented out the serene, earth-tone storefront for a kid’s birthday party and to a local women’s group. “The concept was to create a community space,” she told me. “We’ll keep doing more of what people want.”
On the retail side, beautifully arranged display tables showcase books, journals, ceramics, jewelry, dried bouquets and tarot and oracle cards — many of them from local artists, designers and writers. Woven blankets and straw hats from Guatemala adorn two of the walls. A line of ayurvedic-inspired beauty products line the shelves of a third wall.
How can a retail store also be a yoga studio? It helps if everything is movable. When a friend and I attended a Wednesday morning yoga class, Waters pushed the display tables to the edge of the space and set up sand-colored mats, blankets and low-slung meditation chairs on the floor. The class was lovely and appropriate for people of all ages and skill levels, but I couldn’t help glancing around the store as I did my sun salutations. So many beautiful things! My friend felt the same way. We both left the yoga class feeling relaxed and rejuvenated and wearing the new necklaces we purchased after class.
On the retail side, beautifully arranged display tables showcase books, journals, ceramics, jewelry, dried bouquets and tarot and oracle cards — many of them from local artists, designers and writers. Woven blankets and straw hats from Guatemala adorn two of the walls. A line of ayurvedic-inspired beauty products line the shelves of a third wall.
How can a retail store also be a yoga studio? It helps if everything is movable. When a friend and I attended a Wednesday morning yoga class, Waters pushed the display tables to the edge of the space and set up sand-colored mats, blankets and low-slung meditation chairs on the floor. The class was lovely and appropriate for people of all ages and skill levels, but I couldn’t help glancing around the store as I did my sun salutations. So many beautiful things! My friend felt the same way. We both left the yoga class feeling relaxed and rejuvenated and wearing the new necklaces we purchased after class.
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Gearys
Beverly Hills Home Decor
(Gearys in Beverly Hills.)
This multigenerational, family-owned business dates to 1930, when it first opened its doors as an art supply and gift store. In the almost century since, it’s grown the way many family retail businesses have, organically adding new categories and expanding offerings to both serve existing customers and attract new ones. That’s why today the Gearys Beverly Hills footprint includes two dedicated luxury watch boutiques — one selling Rolex watches and the other Patek Philippe timepieces — as well as the flagship store on Beverly Drive that, in addition to a selection of high-end wrist candy, serves up all manner of tabletop bling, shiny home-decor extravagance and sparkly giftables. (It’s reportedly a gifting go-to for Madame Vice President, whose purchases here have included a wedding present for stepson Cole Emhoff.)
On a recent visit, I watched as a sales associate thoughtfully helped a customer lay out — plate by plate, glass by glass — place settings for a 16-person bridal dinner in shades of muted silver. A few feet away, two women answered the gift-registry phones with the enthusiasm of stock traders. All around them, shoppers quietly browsed displays of loud luxury tableware, flatware and barware that dream dinners are made of: colorful Hermès dinner plates, gleaming Christofle wine buckets, serving trays and butter dishes and Baccarat crystal stemware that catches the light just so.
There’s no shortage of statement gift options to be had; think a $325 bedazzled turkey table-topper; a $1,700 oyster-shaped, sterling silver salt cellar and a limited-edition, sculpted crystal Arabian horse head ($32,060). There are even swanky toys for the kids (just behind the staircase) including Danish-designed Maileg plush toys, zippy Playforever toy race cars and French play tea sets. With any luck, the young ones will grow up to appreciate an eye-catching tablescape.
On a recent visit, I watched as a sales associate thoughtfully helped a customer lay out — plate by plate, glass by glass — place settings for a 16-person bridal dinner in shades of muted silver. A few feet away, two women answered the gift-registry phones with the enthusiasm of stock traders. All around them, shoppers quietly browsed displays of loud luxury tableware, flatware and barware that dream dinners are made of: colorful Hermès dinner plates, gleaming Christofle wine buckets, serving trays and butter dishes and Baccarat crystal stemware that catches the light just so.
There’s no shortage of statement gift options to be had; think a $325 bedazzled turkey table-topper; a $1,700 oyster-shaped, sterling silver salt cellar and a limited-edition, sculpted crystal Arabian horse head ($32,060). There are even swanky toys for the kids (just behind the staircase) including Danish-designed Maileg plush toys, zippy Playforever toy race cars and French play tea sets. With any luck, the young ones will grow up to appreciate an eye-catching tablescape.
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Tansy
Burbank Plant Shop
(Mariah Tauger / Los Angeles Times)
In addition to plants, Tansy owners Shawna Christian and Colette Fowler offer bohemian home goods with flair: colorful fair-trade garlands, plants, metal bells, mobiles, pom-poms and suncatchers. “It’s all about color, plants and fabrics,” says Christian. “I am trying to perfect the art of being insanely creative without being claustrophobic.”
Tansy also hosts various community events, from sound baths to educational workshops on rose care. It recently added Brenden Davis-Ortiz’s Kaleido Coffee trailer, which serves Stereoscope coffee and Spirit Tea from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday on the patio outside the plant store. In addition to exotic brews such as banana joie and toasted hazelnut lattes, the coffee cart serves pastries. If you stop by for coffee before the store opens, don’t worry — you can still enjoy the California native plants and succulents on the patio while sitting at one of the picnic tables.
Open 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday; 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday.
Tansy also hosts various community events, from sound baths to educational workshops on rose care. It recently added Brenden Davis-Ortiz’s Kaleido Coffee trailer, which serves Stereoscope coffee and Spirit Tea from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday on the patio outside the plant store. In addition to exotic brews such as banana joie and toasted hazelnut lattes, the coffee cart serves pastries. If you stop by for coffee before the store opens, don’t worry — you can still enjoy the California native plants and succulents on the patio while sitting at one of the picnic tables.
Open 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday; 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday.
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Tesoro
Beverly Hills Gift Store
(Tesoro)
Replete with artist-made decor objects, hand-crafted bath essentials and out-of-the-box gift ideas for the person who has everything, Tara Riceberg’s shop also offers gifts for babies, kids, and pets and in-house, hand-painted wrapping paper.
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The Give Store
Hollywood Gift Store
(The Give Store)
The Give Store is an indie boutique that offers handmade goods, ceramics, fragrances and incense from France, Japan and Mexico. In addition to housewares and gifts, the store stocks a variety of houseplants, succulents and planters. The store also offers gift boxes comprising popular items from the store.
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The House of Woo
Downtown L.A. Retail
(Lisa Boone / Los Angeles Times)
In the Arts District around the corner from Hauser & Wirth art gallery, Staci Woo and Mike Badt’s gift shop and studio offers clothing and home goods produced in their workroom in the back. The husband-and-wife’s Uplifters Ranch, a California lifestyle clothing line that includes baseball caps, cozy sweats and T-shirts, has a California beach vibe. Additionally, the designers stock napkins, funky long wrap skirts and other clothing items. On a recent visit to the downtown L.A. shop, gifts by local makers filled the storefront, including holiday ornaments, crystals, apothecary goods and jewelry. Whether you are looking for stocking stuffers or a special gift, the House of Woo will likely cover all your holiday needs.
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Tortoise General Store
Venice Gift Store
(Amelie Emi Uchiike)
Keiko and Taku Shinomoto opened Tortoise General Store in 2003 with the concept of “slow and steady” design. The Mar Vista showroom offers a curated selection of timeless Japanese home goods such as Tajika kitchen scissors, ceramic Japan Infinity bowls and colorful 100% cotton Tenugui cloths.
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Treehaus
Atwater Village Gift Store
(Lisa Boone / Los Angeles Times)
Michelle Pedersen and Saralynne Precht started Treehaus as a pop-up in a vintage VW bus and now highlight local independent makers, with a focus on socially conscious and female designers, on a permanent basis.
Their lifestyle boutique covers a wide range of goods, including clothing and jewelry, toys, books and games for kids, L.A.-centric tea towels, unique cards and small-batch leather goods.
Their lifestyle boutique covers a wide range of goods, including clothing and jewelry, toys, books and games for kids, L.A.-centric tea towels, unique cards and small-batch leather goods.
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Twirls and Twigs
Sherman Oaks Gift Store
(Lisa Boone / Los Angeles Times)
If you’re in the market for a gift that will bring a smile, Shawna Dalton’s shop on Magnolia Boulevard in Valley Village won’t disappoint. At Twirls + Twigs, where the motto is “Give Gratitude,” you’ll find a wide range of tongue-in-cheek gifts such as “You Are a Badass” shower steamers, “Bitch Please, I’m From the Valley” coffee mugs and “Damn Dude” lavatory air fresheners. What sets Dalton’s shop apart is her commitment to stocking one-of-a-kind wares by local female makers, a cause she’s passionate about. You’ll also find crystals, goodies for kids, jewelry and irreverent cards featuring the likes of Taylor Swift, Beyoncé and Dolly Parton.
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Village Heights
Windsor Square Gift Store
(Lisa Boone / Los Angeles Times)
From crystal barware to tea towels and jewelry, Louis Eafalla’s gift shop in Larchmont Village has something for nearly everyone on your list. In addition to gifts, the store is known for its seasonal items and festive window displays, including tea towels, decor, gift wrap, ornaments and cards.
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Central Library gift shop
Downtown L.A. Library
(Gary Coronado / Los Angeles Times)
It’s worth popping into the Central Library for its rotating art exhibits, extensive list of events or even just to visit its gift shop, one of downtown L.A.’s best. There are books, yes, exploring the city’s culture and history, but also art, local crafts and even fancy gummy bears. Come for the stationery, go home with some California-branded socks.
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When Two Become One
Highland Park Retail
(Yasara Gunawardena)
Wedged in between the Highland Park Bowl and Civil Coffee, the independent boutiques
Intentionally Blank and Ririku recently opened a shared space on Figueroa in Highland Park. In addition to a wide range of gifts, including apparel, shoes, accessories and home goods, the showroom features a dedicated fragrance wall with scents from around the world. The hub also hosts events and pop-ups with designers and artists, so be sure to follow their Instagram for the latest updates.
Intentionally Blank and Ririku recently opened a shared space on Figueroa in Highland Park. In addition to a wide range of gifts, including apparel, shoes, accessories and home goods, the showroom features a dedicated fragrance wall with scents from around the world. The hub also hosts events and pop-ups with designers and artists, so be sure to follow their Instagram for the latest updates.
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Wildflora
Studio City Plant Shop
(Sarah Zing)
This full-service florist shop offers houseplants, succulents and tillandsia and aeriums, along with home decor such as pillows and candles. You can also build your own gift box from a wide assortment of products including candles, candies, books and floral arrangements.
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Yolk
Silver Lake Gift Store
(Lisa Boone / Los Angeles Times)
This tiny independent design store in the heart of Silver Lake’s Sunset Junction specializes in home decor, toys and apparel for kids, and gifts by local brands such as P.F. Candle and Boy Smells. Toys and home goods include Marimekko designs, Calico Critters toys, coffee table books and witty salt and pepper shakers.
Also at 3191 Glendale Blvd., Atwater Village.
Also at 3191 Glendale Blvd., Atwater Village.
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