GUEST EDIT: TSG NEWPORT BEACH
By virtue of my East Seventy Second clients, local is at the heart of most of what I do professionally. And so, the WEEKLY was, at least in part, inspired by a desire to share my unique literacy of locally-owned shops across the country with readers eager to put their credit cards to good, intentional use. There are simply so many interesting, incredibly merchandised, inspiring shops accessible to us no matter where we live. In short, we can shop locally wherever we are.
It just may not offer the same instant gratification Amazon has trained you to expect. In an exploration of two-day (or less) shipping’s effect on retail, The Wall Street Journal dubbed it the “Prime Effect,” concluding the future of retail “goes to players big enough (or innovative enough) to cut costs on shipping, even while getting goods to everyone in the U.S. in two days or less.”
The article, it should be noted, was written pre-pandemic, though the sentiment remains the same. Anecdotally, independently and locally owned businesses enjoyed renewed support as shoppers experienced the effects of “supply-chain issues” (every big box retailer’s favorite phrase). Yet, the instant gratification feedback loop that global retail conglomerates can offer beckons. Even now, I’m impatiently awaiting the arrival of a 6:45 AM Amazon order.
That order was, by the way, inspired — no, influenced — by, well, influencers. Whether it happens organically (e.g. your friend telling you about the skirt she found) or intentionally (e.g. your favorite personality sharing their Amazon Prime Day finds), the simple fact remains: the current influencer economy is not set up to support fellow small businesses. Sure, you can shop small businesses through Amazon and independent artisans through Etsy. But when it comes down to directing followers to purchase from a retailer that offers influencers commission or a small business that happens to carry the product locally, there’s one financially prudent option.
So, I encourage you to consider: am I purchasing from insert-your-favorite-big-box-store-here because I love the item or because I love the convenience of its two-day shipping? Can I find this item — or something even better — at a locally-owned store? What do I want my dollars to support?
And on that note, I’m thrilled to share a WEEKLY installation guest-edited by Catherine Lowe. Catherine is the Editor + Owner of The Scout Guide Newport Beach, an annual print city guide dedicated to supporting local businesses in the coastal California town. Here, you’ll find items items from homegrown brands, art from local artists, and goods curated by small businesses. Consider this a sample of the many delights Newport Beach has to offer, as well as an illustration of what looking to local — wherever you are — can glean.
Interested in supporting the WEEKLY as you support these businesses? Leave them a note in checkout or follow-up via email to let them know you were directed to their online shop by this article!
the HOME
NEWPORT FLAG by SLIGHTLY CHOPPY ARTIFACTS // In an ode to quintessential California surf culture, Sightly Choppy hand makes surf flag keepsakes that connect people to the places they love most. Looking for something custom? Inquire with the owner, you may just get lucky. Local Sources: Slightly Choppy, Almond Surfboards
“SIMPLE PROW” // Again, nautical without being nauseatingly so. Local Sources: Robin Weller Design
VINTAGE TIN BOWL // From local favorite design firm SKOUT Interiors comes a curated collection of home goods and furniture. Many, like this vintage tin bowl, are one-of-a-kind pieces that, in their rough-hewn, perfectly-patinaed quality, offer your home layer and character. P.S. My rule of thumb when building out interiors is as follows: 80% vintage or thrifted, 20% new. Local Source: SKOUT Interiors
“COGS IN THE WHEEL" by JAN MCCARTHY // Newport Beach-based artist Jan McCarthy specializes in mixed media pieces. This is one of my favorites of hers!
LARGE WOVEN BASKET // A high-quality basket for a high-quality home. We have similar that act as a catchall for shoes at the front door and it preempts a lot of pre-marital disagreements. Local Source: Juxtaposition Home, Robin Weller Design
SCALLOPED SEAGRASS LAMPSHADE // She’s so cute. Local Sources: Juxtaposition Home
the KITCHEN
JUTE BAZAAR TOTE // Like the classic Apolis totes! Blue Atlas Marketplace also offers monogramming and customization. I encourage you to get inspired for a cheeky phrase courtesy of Ironic Boat & Tote. Local Sources: Blue Atlas Marketplace (Newport Beach, CA)
NAUTICAL CLEAT STEAK BOARD // This screams nautical, but not in a gross kitschy way. I love the idea of pairing this with a steak subscription or, even better, a cut sourced from a local butcher shop as a gift. Local Sources: Blue Atlas Marketplace
STRIPED HAND TOWEL // Stumped on a hostess gifts? Hand towel. Local Sources: Juxtaposition Home
CANVAS WINE BAG // A two-bottle wine bag that’s, when paired with your host’s favorite red and white, makes for a great gift. Local Sources: Blue Atlas Marketplace, Juxtaposition Home (Newport Beach, CA)
the TABLE
LINEN NAPKINS // For a very Newport table, linen napkins. Local Sources: Blue Atlas Marketplace
RATTAN HIGHBALL GLASS // Is it a Newport Beach-inspired digest if it doesn’t include a rattan highball glass? Local Sources: SKOUT Interiors, similar at Robin Weller Design, in-store at Juxtaposition Home.
GLITTER DIPPED BIRTHDAY CANDLES // Special candles are arguably the best part of birthday cakes, you know, after the birthday cake. And Where’s the Party has oodles of fun options. Local Sources: Where’s the Party
HAND BLOWN ROCK GLASSES // Personalize with initials courtesy of gifting mavens Blue Atlas Marketplace. Local Sources: Blue Atlas Marketplace
CAKE STAND & DOME // The dome is an essential component. Local Sources: Blue Atlas Marketplace
KNOT NAPKIN RING // Pair with the linen napkins above. Local Sources: Blue Atlas Marketplace
the GARDEN
ALMOND SURFBOARD // Let’s be clear, while I’ve shared a few surfboards on the WEEKLY, I know absolutely nothing about surfing. I have, however, heard that Almond is one of the best shops around town. They also have a cute shop carrying favorites like Slightly Choppy flags, Wild Sam, and Salt & Stone. Local Sources: Almond Surfboards.
ARTISAN TRIMMING SHEARS // Working with Scout Guide editors across the country introduces me to new innovative and interesting businesses daily. Yet, one of my longtime favorites is Heirloom Potager, a bespoke kitchen garden designer for residential and commercial clients. Deeply versed in the nuances of SoCal growing, she offers clients a clear path to homegrown goods on a seasonal basis. I would love to have a North Florida version of Ashley Irene to realize my idyllic gardening dreams. Local Sources: Heirloom Potager
CITRONELLA STICKS // Not only is the Newport Beach-based florist Urban Gardener a genius at floral design, Catherine Lowe tells me her store is a goldmine for gifts and goodies like these Citronella Sticks. Local Sources: Urban Gardener (in-store)
the VANITY
SHEER FLUID BROAD SPECTRUM SPF // I love Amy’s bespoke, body-positive approach to aesthetics, and her results speak for themselves. This, according to an interview I conducted with her this summer, is a favorite! Local Sources: Amy Berisha Aesthetics
BACKHOUSE FRAGRANCES HAND WASH // From local-favorite homegrown candle maker, Backhouse Fragrances, comes their first hand wash, a sandalwood, musk, and amber scented, cruelty-free, paraben-free, and sulfate-free touch of indulgence for your daily routine. Not sure you need? It’s cold and flu season, so it’s an essential. Local Sources: Backhouse Fragrances
the CLOSET
CANVAS TOTE // I may be the biggest fan of canvas totes in the entire world. And this indigo-hued canvas option from Juxtaposition absolutely delights. I’m also loving their chartreuse color way. Local Sources: Juxtaposition Home
5 CARAT TENNIS BRACELET // Mama Bijoux says it best: Every girl needs one. Every girl wants one. And this is the perfect size. Substantial to make a statement but not so crazy big, you’ll still wear it every day. This is the size that won’t require an upgrade! Just parfait! Voilà! Local Sources: Mama Bijoux
LUCKY 7 DIAMOND GYPSY RING // This stunner is perfect for stacking! Local Sources: Mama Bijoux
the ETC.
THE SCOUT GUIDE NEWPORT BEACH, VOLUME 1 // Local Sources: Find it around town, including all of the above mentioned businesses, Lido Village, VEA Hotel, and more!
POKER SET // For your poker playing guy. Bookmark for the holidays. Local Sources: Blue Atlas Marketplace
YACHTS: THE IMPOSSIBLE COLLECTION // Feels like essential reading and the ultimate addition to your coffee table. Local Sources: Blue Atlas Marketplace
SURF LIKE A GIRL // More essential reading! Local Sources: Balboa Island Museum
