The Garage Collective Pops Up

Some boutiques are so unique that it’s difficult to put a label on them. The Garage Collective on Pacific Coast Highway across from the Surf and Sand Resort is such a place. “Curated California casual” is what owner Kristin Lewis calls it. “It’s a little bit Scandi, bohemian, and modern. We offer a mix ranging from vintage textiles to modern ceramics.” There’s also woven rugs, pillows popping with personality, tables of delicate jewelry, and racks of ladies-wear that beg to be worn. It’s an emporium of natural designs for sure, but a “collective?”

“It all started in a garage,” Lewis explains. She was inspired to create a business that would sell beautiful things, while also empowering fellow businesswomen, so she invited some talented friends to offer their wares in her Laguna Beach garage. She took to Instagram to promote the products and items started selling out, fast. There became such a demand that in addition to restocking certain pieces, it made sense to open a brick and mortar store.

Today, the Garage Collective is still several small businesses operating under one roof -- but the items, the colors, even the scents are all charming and complementary to each other.

Instagram continues to be a significant source of revenue for the collective, and with good reason. Over 25,000 followers see the latest and greatest Lewis and her collaborate brands have to offer. At their Laguna Beach store, inventory is kept fresh, says the shop owner. “A couple times a year, we have a Garage Collective Bazaar where we invite some of our favorite local makers and curators to pop-up with us. There are lite bites and drinks. It’s a great way to share other brands with our community and customers.”

The shop’s diverse aesthetic of both vintage and modern has unsurprisingly attracted the attention of local designers, like Newport Beach-based Skout and Raili Clasen who love the muted tones and global vibe -- where else can you find handmade rugs sourced from Morocco and woven pendant light fixtures in the same space? (Hot tip: they offer a 10% discount to local interior designers.)

When shopping at Garage Collective you’ll be sure to find a special gift you won’t find anywhere else -- it’s perfect for anyone on your Christmas list.

Victoria Kertz is a local journalist and the co-founder of Third Street Writers. Follow her on Instagram at @orangecoutess.

Photos by: Jessica Bodas

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