Venice residents love the farmers' market, and shopping locally to maintain sustainable living, so why not apply that concept to the holidays?
The best gift ideas and trends can be found right here in the shops of Venice.
Over the next four weeks, Patch will be highlighting different Venice shopping areas neighborhoods. The interesting stuff found here is enough to cross even the hardest-to-please relative off a holiday shopping list.
This week's column focuses on the hip and eccentric Abbot Kinney Boulevard. With pop-up shops and specialty boutiques, the holiday shopping experience there is second to none.
This week's suggestions:
Stop The Traffic! These serving trays and coasters are made by artist Boris Bally from 100% recycled aluminum traffic signs. They were recently featured in the film "My Super Ex-Girlfriend" with Uma Thurman and Luke Wilson. (see photo) Coasters: $20 ea., Serving Tray: $95
Available at: Altered Space Gallery | 1221 Abbot Kinney Blvd. | Tel. (310) 452-8121 |
For Goodness Saké. This assortment of serving ceramics at TGS is perfect for the saké lover. The pieces are sold separately, allowing shoppers to mix and match and even pair a set with an essential reading guide to the saké basics. (see photo) Insider's Guide to Saké: $15, Cups: $17 ea., Carafe: $24
Available at: | 1208 Abbot Kinney Blvd. | Tel. (310)-314-8448 |
Wooly Buggers. Just a few doors down, all the rage at Ananda are these wool-knit animal themed puppet hats. Perfect for the skier, snowboarder or the quirky animal lover on your list. But act fast, this is one hot item. Seriously. (see photo) Hats: $38-$42 (kid sizes available)
Available at: | 1356 Abbot Kinney Blvd. | Tel. (310) 399-4186
Rehydrate In Style. For the eco-conscious, as these bottles by KOR Water say, "Water Never Looked So Good". These reusable hydration vessels are BPA-free, ice friendly and come in four unique colors; each representing a specific water related cause. And one percent of all sales are donated to select groups of non-profits for water related issues. (see photo) Water bottle: $30 ea.
Available at: A+R Global Design | 1121 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice CA | Tel. (800) 913-0071 |
Keys To The Heart. For him and/or her, Carol Tantau, owner and resident artisan of Just Tantau, is offering these creations made from keys of early 20th century vintage typewriters. You can choose from single key pendants, cufflinks, bracelets, earrings or adjustable rings. (see photo) Pendant (w/chain): $30, Cufflinks: $40/pair, Bracelets: $98, Earrings: $30-$48/pair, Rings: $36
Available at: | 1353 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice CA | Tel. (310) 392-4646 |
Next week's shopping spotlight will focus on the Venice Boardwalk. Check back on Wednesday to check out those finds.
Correction: An earlier version of this story mistakenly named The Juicy Leaf as the store offering traffic sign trays. They are actually available at Altered Space Gallery, which shares space with The Juicy Leaf. The address was correct, but the phone number is different and has been updated accordingly.
