Hustling, creative women abound in La Jolla. See how their efforts help our community flourish in this roundup of some of the many women-owned businesses.
Women have often led the way in La Jolla, from the philanthropy and development of Ellen Browning Scripps, Florence Sawyer and others in La Jolla’s early growth. This Women’s History Month, we’re highlighting a selection of La Jolla’s women-owned businesses, celebrating innovation, enterprise and the phenomenal power of the female spirit.
Maddie Cameron
Awaken Family Chiropractic
1. Awaken Family Chiropractic
Maddie Cameron, a Doctor of Chiropractic, started Awaken Family Chiropractic to provide pregnancy, pediatric and adult chiropractic care in The Village in a family-oriented practice. Cameron’s relaxing, grounding environment is meant to encourage her patients to ask questions and feel supported by her extensive knowledge of health and healing, specific, safe chiropractic adjustments and more.
2. Bodhe
At Bodhe, founder Sam Score’s endeavors to create a members-only coworking space and social club have resulted in long waitlists for the cozy, elevated space and its forthcoming sequel, both on Prospect Street in La Jolla. With a small, intimate lounge-meets-workspace limited to seven people, Bodhe’s size is purposely minimized to maximize community connections.
3. The Boulevard
La Jolla resident Stephanie Montion Marquez’s The Boulevard is a salon and boutique on La Jolla Boulevard. In addition to Montion Marquez and team’s hair design talent (she specializes in creating custom looks considering personality, lifestyle and fashion), patrons can find the latest trends in clothing and accessories in a stylish atmosphere.
4. Bridget’s Blooms
If you haven’t been to Bridget’s Blooms on Torrey Pines Road yet, you’re missing out on owner Bridget Lindroth’s 40-plus years of floral industry expertise. For everything from the freshest, best flowers to home decor with natural flair, locals trust Bridget’s Blooms for every occasion requiring a floral touch.
5. The Cat Lounge Rescue and Adoption Center
Renee Shamloo established The Cat Lounge Rescue and Adoption Center on Torrey Pines Road in 2019 to rescue, care for and find homes for local felines. Anyone can visit the fur-friendly space for a $25 admission fee and cuddle, play with, or just be among the cats without pressure to take one home.
6. CC Patio
Stephanie Thompson opened CC Patio in The Village two years ago, bringing luxury outdoor design to La Jolla. With custom-made outdoor furniture for both commercial and residential spaces showcased in the store, Thompson and her team aim to help clients create their ideal outdoor environment based on their personalities and aspirations.
7. Concetta Antico: The Salon of Art Gallery
Concetta Antico
Concetta Antico: The Salon of Art Gallery
A newcomer to The Village, artist Concetta Antico, who sees more colors than the average person, opened Concetta Antico: The Salon of Art Gallery to share her tetrachromacy in vibrant paintings, tarot readings and more. Stop by for a custom commission or spend time browsing and chatting with Antico to view the world through her eyes.
8. The Flower Pot Cafe and Bakery
With more than flour power, The Flower Pot Cafe and Bakery blends coffee expertise and baking acumen in a cafe meant for you to stay a while. Owners Amanda Morrow and Gloria Serna have curated a community-welcoming, dog-friendly spot for social gatherings, people looking for remote workspace and more.
9. Honor Pilates
Honoring all members of the La Jolla community, Kimi Evans opened Honor Pilates last year to offer Pilates reformer classes in a variety of formats with space for people to feel comfortable and safe. A refreshing refuge from stress, Evans is proud of her commitment to the physical and emotional wellbeing of all who enter the studio.
10. IS Architecture
Architect and Ione Stiegler founded IS Architecture, based in Bird Rock, an award-winning firm dedicated to the preservation and renewal of structures. Stiegler’s specialization in historic preservation makes her a sought-after expert for projects seeking designation; her firm prides itself on custom residential architecture and the historic restoration and adaptive reuse of existing structures.
11. Lavande Spiritual Wellness Boutique
Krystia Rae, Lavande Spiritual Wellness Boutique
Chantelle Malarkey
Guiding individuals on their journeys to self-discovery and healing, Krystia Rae founded Lavande Spiritual Wellness Boutique in Bird Rock to provide private healing services, group events and ceremonies, workshops, products and more. Rae’s passion to help others live a life of intention results in her dedication to offering a sanctuary for transformation.
12. La Jolla Cosmetic Laser Clinic
Founded by Dr Nasrin Mani, La Jolla Cosmetic Laser Clinic in The Village offers an array of medical spa and dermatology treatments that go far beyond skin care. Mani, a board-certified ophthalmologist experienced in microscopic surgical skills and laser techniques, leads her team with care and precision, ensuring La Jolla Cosmetic Laser Clinic’s sterling reputation.
13. Ooh La La Dance Academy
Susie Grafte opened Ooh La La Dance Academy on Cuvier Street in 2008 and has grown the company to specialize in tap, ballet, jazz, lyrical, contemporary, hip hop, acro and other dance styles for its 200-plus students ages three to adult, including dozens who compete in regional and national dance competitions.
14. Pedego Electric Bikes La Jolla
Tracy Sheffer owns Pedego Electric Bikes La Jolla in Bird Rock, bringing e-bike sales, service and rentals to La Jolla as well as organizing participation in regional Pedego events. Sheffer runs the shop with community knowledge and devotion to fellow small business owners.
15. REV Studios
Tucked away on Draper Avenue, REV Studios is a photography and video hub for creators to bring their ideas to life. Founder Lynne Arciero’s vision to provide an ideal location for commercial or lifestyle shoots is going strong, powered by her 25 years in marketing and communications.
16. Roam Homeware
A newcomer to La Jolla Boulevard, Roam Homeware, founded by Elyse Clark, carries original, authentic pieces that fit the store’s vision of a worldly selection of goods. The La Jolla location, Roam’s second spot, showcases its selection of vintage and homemade home decor in style, also offering interior design services and more.
17. Salt & Rind
Kimmie Alessi
Salt & Rind
With treatments designed to bring out confidence and joy, Kimmie Alessi recently moved her facial and sugaring studio Salt & Rind to La Jolla. A licensed esthetician and experienced studio owner, Alessi strives to offer a luxurious, personalized experience that leaves skin and spirit revitalized through personalized services delivered in a luxurious, welcoming space.
18. Studio Barre
Owned by Amanda Walker, Studio Barre in Bird Rock’s recipe for boutique fitness premier boutique fitness with four class formats and personalized barre workouts for all fitness levels is a winner. Walker, a classically trained ballet dancer, has led the studio for years after finding her passion for barre classes in the community.
19. Sugar and Scribe
Chef Maeve Rochford
Sugar and Scribe
Chef Maeve Rochford opened Sugar and Scribe in The Village not long after her first Food Network championship win. On any given morning, folks crowd the waitlist for a table to sample Rochford’s modern brunch classics or the bakery counter for a scrumptious pastry or two. And with custom cakes and other treats, Sugar and Scribe is the choice for all occasions.
20. Surf Diva Surf School & Surf Shop
For nearly 30 years, Surf Diva Surf School & Surf Shop has brought surf lessons and culture to La Jolla Shores. Twin sisters Coco and Izzy Tihanyi opened Surf Diva in 1996 as the first all-female surfing school, wanting to empower people to learn to surf with lessons and camps for all ages and abilities, along with an inspiring shop.
21. Sweet Paper
Following owner Karly Matzen‘s vision, Sweet Paper in The Village sells a curated selection of greeting cards, stationery, gifts and party supplies along with custom invitations and stationery. Tap into your creativity at Sweet Paper and find your next gift for anyone or the right tools for your next brainstorm session.
22. Warwick’s Bookstore
No such list would be complete without mention of Nancy Warwick, owner and operator of Warwick’s bookstore on Girard Avenue, the oldest continuously family-owned and operated bookstore in the US. Warwick’s consistently lands at the top of the list of the best independent bookstores for its wide selection of books, stationery and curated author events.
23. Wayfarer Bread
If you’ve stood in line at Bird Rock’s Wayfarer Bread for the reward of fresh baked goods, you’re hardly alone. Founded by Crystal White, Wayfarer features renowned croissants, cinnamon buns, breads and other high-quality products that sell out often. Try Wayfarer for yourself and experience the commitment to quality within a warm, inviting atmosphere.
This list of female phenomena in La Jolla is by no means exhaustive, and leaves out the diligent efforts of other women in fields like real estate, dental work, legal and more. The entrepreneurial drive of thousands of women is thriving in La Jolla, paving the way for generations ahead.
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