Updated for 2023
Hey, want to head to the Mall? Fight traffic, hunt for parking, and wait in long lines at the stores? Neither did we.
So MomsLA has chosen to support some local businesses that are making amazing, unique gifts right here in Los Angeles. Oh and by the way? We saved ourselves from all that aforementioned frustration and had a ball along the way. You probably will, too.
We had a really terrific time, first picking the places, then visiting these amazing businesses – and wrapping up our gift lists in one awesome shopping trip. We chose gifts we wanted to buy (and receive) and we wanted to be sure they were unique and made here. Join us on our journey around LA, shopping and dining – and having a wonderful “only-in-LA” day.
10 Great Made in LA Gifts Perfect for the Holidays (or Anytime)
See’s Candies
Multiple locations around Los Angeles including
3431 S. La Cienega Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90016
The flagship See’s Candy store and factory on La Cienega is where they say Lucille Ball did her research for the famous scene from the Lucy show where she and Ethel try their hands at working on the candy line. And did you know that the first See’s opened on Western Avenue back in 1921? You’ll find lots of delightful candy gift options at See’s.
And how wonderful to be offered a free sample while shopping! You can opt to select a pre-made gift box, create your own gift box, or opt for something different like lollipops that are also ornaments! In addition to holiday creations, See’s creates special packaging for every holiday as well as birthdays, thank you gifts, teacher appreciation, and more.
MADE by DWC
ReSale Boutique 325 S. Los Angeles St., Los Angeles, CA 90013
Craft and Gift Boutique, 438 S. San Pedro St., Los Angeles, CA 90013
MADE by DWC is the social enterprise that empowers women to break the cycle of homelessness through employment. It’s an innovative venture of the Downtown Women’s Center, the only organization in Los Angeles focused exclusively on serving women experiencing homelessness. This year, they are selling these restorative self-care gift items essential for this 2021 Holiday Season. Choose from hand-poured scented candles, all-natural soaps, and single-origin coffee. They are this season’s must-haves!
Related: Homemade Holiday Food Gift ideas
Fifi and Romeo
Every dog has his day, but not every dog gets a couture sweater made from upcycled cashmere at Fifi and Romeo. (Although we’re sure they all deserve one and would Love them!) This shop, which is open by appointment only, caters to the most fabulous dog owners around the world. Fifi and Romeo was founded by a Hollywood costume designer and, for over 20 years, “has managed to single-handedly diversify a market formerly limited to the mass-produced selections of corporate chain pet stores.” These one-of-a-kind items are made here in L.A.
Know anyone who hasn’t yet seen Legally Blonde? Get the dvd with our affiliate link.
Guelaguetza
3014 W. Olympic Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90006
We love mole – don’t you? We also love Bricia and Paulina Lopez, two sisters who help run their family’s famous Oaxacan restaurant — and who also host a fabulous podcast called Super Mamás, which we’ve been honored to be guests on. But back to the food! Guelagetza has been named to Jonathan Gold’s 101 Best Restaurants List, and with a ton of good reasons. Treat yourself to lunch and buy some delicious mole gifts for family and friends. If the drive to Koratown isn’t convenient for you, you can also shop from their online store.
Related: see our Giant Holiday Gift Guide.
Rock Scissor Paper Studio and Warehouse
11851 Glencrest Dr., San Fernando, CA 91340
Rock Scissor Paper is a Los Angeles-based company founded by two sisters who grew up in Southern California. You’ll find a unique, colorful selection of stationery products and a variety of gifts. Be sure to check out their personalized stationery — flat cards printed with a name and “beautifully boxed with coordinating envelopes. Ready for gift giving!”
Homeboy Industries
Cafe & Store: 130 W. Bruno Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012
This is a café, a bakery, a shop for merchandise — and a movement, all in one. If you don’t already know the story, known as the largest “… gang intervention, rehabilitation, and re-entry program in the world,” Homeboy provides job training and opportunities, and along the way, the products they sell help fund the important work they do. Homegirl Café is wonderful and we love their food.
We bought gifts in the store for our most deserving friends, like T-shirts, Father Greg Boyle’s books (including Barking to the Choir – and here’s our affiliate link to buy it), and their homemade jams, jellies and butters. This model of offering an opportunity for people to change their lives with a job is something we wholeheartedly support and we hope you do as well.
Related: See all the Christmas and Holiday Events in Los Angeles
Shop Mi Vida
5159 York Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90042
At Shop Mi Vida, they make their own T-shirts, literally silk screening them right in the store, plus they sell one-of-a-kind items made by other local artists. Their retail business began in 2008 “with the purpose of providing the surrounding community a shopping experience that compliments their lifestyle, incorporating cultural elements into fashion and functional art.”
You’ll also find plenty of gift items including jewelry, totes, hats, and more. They are seriously connected to the art scene in LA, having been a part of the NELA Art Walk every 2nd Saturday for over 10 years. They’ve got amazing murals that will probably be different the next time you come by, so go often! Love this store!
Hedley & Bennett
We knew we had to have the kind of work gear worn by some of the best chefs in the world! These aprons are super chic and they are made in LA. We both want to look awesome when we’re cooking, and of course, we want our gift recipients to look fabulous, too. Plus once we heard the company’s story we were hooked. We love that it was started by a young woman, and only about 5 years ago.
We love that she has a pet pig, who’s also the company’s mascot, and we love their headquarters in Vernon, where they make and sell their amazing products. You’ll find much more than aprons here including chef coats, work shirts, socks, and kitchen linens.
Tree Dedication with Tree People
12601 Mulholland Dr., Beverly Hills, CA 90210
For the environmentally-conscious child or family member, consider making a Tree Dedication with Tree People. Commemorate a birthday or special event with a Tree Dedication. Trees are planted in “the Los Angeles area which includes local city parks, schools, streets, urban forests and the Santa Monica Mountains.” Details are available online.
Darner Socks
Have a family member who loves one-of-a-kind socks? Who would never think of wearing your standard black or white sock? Then be sure to check out Darner Socks. “Locally produced in Los Angeles in small batches, Darner Socks are printed in beautiful and unique custom solid colors and prints. Each color and print is sketched, created into fabric, and then cut and sewn locally into your favorite accessory.” Check the website for details on how to order.
Related: Find Hanukkah Celebrations around SoCal
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