I’m looking for something special for my . This person is best described as . I’d like to give them a gift that is . This person’s favorite part of the holiday season is . I'm on a budget of .
Beauty obsessed
Cleansing beauty bar
Charcoal is supposed to draw out impurities and toxins (problems that seem to crop up around the holidays) and is often used as an exfoliator. SkinOwl, a Los Angeles line founded by former makeup artist Annie Tevelin, uses charcoal — and lavender, eucalyptus, cedar wood, tea tree and peppermint essential oils — in this cleansing beauty bar. $24. skinowl.com
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Exfoliating sponge
Everyone needs to exfoliate, which means the Spongelle Flower Infused Body Wash Buffer — a body-wash infused "buffer" — could be appropriate for all those stockings hanging by the chimney with care. Choose from a ginger bergamot scent, or French lavender or Bulgarian rose. $16. thegrommet.com
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Face wash
Rosewater is known for its mild astringent and soothing properties, and nyl Skincare, a line that makes natural ingredients and natural preservatives a priority, has made it the star of its (organic) Rosewater Face Wash (for dry, normal or sensitive skin). $29. nylskincare.com
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Gentle Sugar Body Polish
Many of us who live in Southern California have certain expectations about the things we eat and the products we use on our skin. When shopping, we look for the words "natural," "organic" and "pure." This nyl Skincare Gentle Sugar Body Polish body scrub is a blend of organic sugar and oils, exfoliates and moisturizes and it might be just the thing for your friends who actually read product labels. $36. nylskincare.com
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Skin mask
Spirulina, microalgae, kale and spinach. No, they aren't the ingredients of your next salad — they're on the list of the good stuff in the Superfood Skin Reset Mask from Youth to the People, a line founded by Joe Cloyes and Greg Gonzalez, cousins who were born and raised in the Bay Area. $44. youthtothepeople.com
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Hydrating serum
This is the time of year for parties — and perhaps a little over-indulgence. This Cellular Repair Serum from True Botanicals, based in Mill Valley, was created to be an anti-inflammatory treatment. The ingredients include algae and seaweed to nourish tired skin. $140. truebotanicals.com
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Tinted lotion
L.A.'s makeup artists know how to make their clients glow. Bethany Karlyn is one of those artists, and her "Skin Tight" body lotion, which comes in several shades, was created to conceal imperfections. What's more, it can be used under makeup or as makeup. $39. thegrommet.com
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Moisturizing eye cream
Your gift recipients who really enjoy the holidays might appreciate a little assistance with puffy eyes the morning after. The Quinoa Depuffing & Firming Eye Cream from the Nyakio line (founded by Nyakio Grieco, a former agent with CAA) may be just what they need. $39. ulta.com
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Skin oil
It's called Superberry Hydrate and Glow Oil, which sounds like a good fit for the season of dining and drinking excess. It comes from Youth to the People (a line founded by two cousins from the Bay Area), and ingredients include acai, prickly pear, gogi berry and jojoba oil. Feeling healthy? We thought so. $44. youthtothepeople.com
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Face palette
In the world of makeup and beauty, the Westmore family is a Hollywood dynasty. Family members have worked as makeup and hair artists on prominent films and TV series ("Gone With the Wind," "Mask," "Raging Bull") for decades, and Westmore Beauty has developed a face palette inspired by actress Bette Davis. Prepare to highlight, conceal, contour and make your eyes pop. Prices start at about $40. westmorebeauty.com, qvc.com
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For the lips
Sheena Yaitanes started L.A.-based Kosås a few years ago with a four-lipstick collection. Today the line includes blushes, foundations and accessories and several lipsticks with names like Violet Fury, Fringe and Stardust. (We're partial to Rosewater, described as a "cool tone sheer pink.") $28. kosas.com
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Face glitter
For years, we've struggled with eye glitter, sometimes thwarting our party plans. Vamp Stamp's Metallic Glitter (which combines glitter and bonding glue) could make the process a little easier. Bonus: You can also use the P.O.V. Bonding Metallic Glitter on lips and cheeks. $19. thevampstamp.com
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Color and light
Kosås founder Sheena Yaitanes studied chemistry at UC Irvine and business at Chapman University. Now she's heading her own beauty line, which includes a series of makeup pairings, including this powder blush and highlighter. $34. kosas.com
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For tresses
Seabuckthorn oil is supposed to ease dry skin and discoloration and tame dry, over-processed hair — which is why it's a key ingredient in Living Libation's Seabuckthorn Shampoo. It comes in a variety of sizes and prices, starting at about $7. Think about a combination gift and add a bottle of Shine On conditioner, which also comes in a variety of sizes and prices, starting at about $ 7. You can also check out the Living Libations' beauty boutique in Venice, at 8 Brooks Ave., #3. Starting at about $7. livinglibations.com
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Scented candle
T. Reeves candles are manufactured in Los Angeles and are infused with essential oils and fragrances. The "Tremaine" has notes of cedar wood and palo santo ("holy wood"), native to Central and South America. The wax is a soy-coconut blend. $45. treevesla.com
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Books
Reimagining John Lennon
"Imagine John Yoko" by Yoko Ono and John Lennon is a visual, behind-the scenes story of the making of Lennon’s 1971 album "Imagine," full of unseen photos and stories of the home recordings from those who were there. Compiled by Yoko Ono. (Grand Central) $50. grandcentralpublishing.com
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Deep reporting
In "Fear: Trump in the White House" by Bob Woodward, the veteran Washington, D.C., journalist taps his sources for a deeply reported story of the Trump presidency that’s got people talking. (Simon & Schuster) $30. simonandschuster.com
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L.A. line
"What If This Were Enough" by Heather Havrilesky features essays from the L.A.-based sassy advice columnist who considers culture, relationships and the perils of our current moment. $25.95. penguinrandomhouse.com
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A stunning crime
In "I’ll Be Gone in the Dark" by Michelle McNamara, the late writer and amateur sleuth spent years tying together the crimes of the unknown man she called the Golden State Killer. This book was published just eight weeks before his astonishing arrest. (Harper) $27.99. harpercollins.com
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Former first lady
"Becoming" by Michelle Obama reaches from her childhood on the south side of Chicago to her husband’s two terms in the White House. (Crown) $32.50. becomingmichelleobama.com
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Book burning
"The Library Book" by Susan Orlean is an investigation into the devastating 1986 fire that nearly destroyed L.A.’s central library, while also celebrating a love of libraries. (Simon & Schuster) $28. simonandschuster.com
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A new L.A. classic
"Dark Sacred Night" by Michael Connelly. In this L.A. detective novel, Connelly brings Det. Renée Ballard and the retired Harry Bosch together for a cold case in Hollywood. (Little, Brown) $29. littlebrown.com
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Emotionally gripping
"The Great Believers" by Rebecca Makkai is an emotionally gripping novel of a community of gay men in Chicago during the AIDS crisis. $27. penguinrandomhouse.com
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Worlds apart
In "The Consuming Fire" by John Scalzi, one of The Times’ critics at large, the human interstellar empire may collapse as its ability to connect disintegrates. (Tor) $26.99. us.macmillan.com
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Off balance
A college student, his girlfriend and the leader of a religious cult she joins are set on a collision course in R.O. Kwon’s "The Indendiaries." $26. penguinrandomhouse.com
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Behind bars
"The Mars Room" by Rachel Kushner is a devastating novel of a woman serving two life sentences in a California prison. $27. simonandschuster.com
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Poetic breakthrough
In her acclaimed debut poetry collection "Eye Level," Jenny Xie’s poems are part travelogue, part exploration of the self. (Graywolf) $16. graywolfpress.org
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Epic snowball fight
"The Meltdown: Diary of a Wimpy Kid #13" by Jeff Kinney. It’s a snow day and Greg and his best friend get caught up in an epic snowball fight. (Amulet) $13.95. wimpykid.com
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Art history for kids
"A History of Pictures: for Children" by David Hockney and Martin Gayford, illustrated by Rose Blake. Art history for kids in this book by the painter with the some help from his friends. (Abrams Books for Young Readers) $24.99. abramsbooks.com
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Love it
"To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before" by Jenny Han box set. The first YA book of the trilogy was adapted by Netflix this year; this set includes the two sequels. (Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers) $32.99. simonandschuster.com
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Moronic giants
"9 from the Nine Worlds" by Rick Riordan. Magnus Chase is away and his friends find themselves in sticky situations with moronic giants and worse. (Rick Riordan) $12.99. readriordan.com
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Words/las palabras
"Loteria: First Words" by Patty Rodriguez and Ariana Stein, illustrated by Citlali Reyes. A bilingual board book based on the traditional Mexican game. (Lil’ Libros) $9.99. lillibros.com
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Ethics, service
"A Higher Loyalty" by James Comey, who also narrated. The former FBI director reads his memoir about government service, ethics and his relationship with the White House. (Macmillan Audio) $39.99. us.macmillan.com
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Revealing memoir
"In Pieces" by Sally Field, who also narrated. The double-Oscar-winning actress reads this revealing, powerful and thoughtful memoir. (Grand Central Publishing) $40. grandcentralpublishing.com
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A love for the ages
"Time’s Convert" by Deborah Harkness, narrated by Saskia Maarleveld. A historically rich love story between a vampire and the human who will join him. $25. penguinrandomhouse.com
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Irish culture
"Mad, Bad and Dangerous to Know" by Colm Tóibín, who also narrated. An exploration of Irish culture through the father-son relationships of writers Oscar Wilde, W.B. Yeats and James Joyce. (Simon & Schuster Audio) $29.99. simonandschuster.com
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Family expectations
"I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter" by Erika L. Sánchez, narrated by Kyla Garcia. In this YA novel, a sardonic high school student faces family expectations after the death of her sister. (Listening Library) $35. penguinrandomhouse.com
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Cooking and baking
Crack pie from Milk Bar
Skip the pumpkin and upgrade to Milk Bar’s crack pie, a sinfully sweet and rich sugary confection with a toasted oat crust. Christina Tosi’s L.A. flagship opened in September, with the baker’s signature cookies, cakes and soft serve also available at the Melrose Avenue shop. Order online for pickup in store or just walk in. $46. milkbarstore.com
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Chocolates from Compartés
Chocolate meets art at Compartés, where truffles feature vibrant designs and the chocolate bar packaging is as fun as the flavors inside, such as Blonde Bombshell (strawberry Champagne dark chocolate). Visit the flagship at Westfield Century City, its store in Brentwood or shop online. Holiday truffles 20-piece collection $59.95, chocolate bars $9.95 to $11.95. compartes.com
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Charcuterie from Gwen
Step inside Curtis Stone’s meat-forward fine dining restaurant and the first thing you’ll encounter is the butcher shop. Give the staff a price point and they’ll help put together a selection of charcuterie. Don’t miss the $8 jar of ‘nduja, a spicy spreadable pork. Prices vary. gwenla.com
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Cheese bouquet from DTLA Cheese
The cheese mongers at this Grand Central Market stall will put together a baguette, a selection of cheeses and butter, and wrap it with tulle to look like a bouquet. Call the morning of to request one. Starts at $50. dtlacheese.com
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Crusoe spiced rum from Greenbar Distillery
Greenbar makes all of its spirits, except for tequila, at its Arts District distillery. Grab a bottle of Crusoe spiced rum, great for adding a boozy splash to your favorite holiday drinks. Visit the distillery to buy and for tastings and tours; its products are also sold at retail stores. $32.99. greenbardistillery.com
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Olive oil from Gjusta
Chef Travis Lett’s perennially packed Gjusta in Venice boasts a sizable marketplace with takeaway jams, housemade hot sauces and nut butters. The marinated olive oil is made with chili, garlic and herbs and bottled in pretty, hipster-approved apothecary-style jars. $13.50. gjusta.com
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Coffee from Go Get ‘Em Tiger
Small coffee shop chain Go Get ‘Em Tiger began roasting in-house last summer and now sells its whole beans in stylish pastel bags. Locations on Larchmont, Los Feliz, Highland Park and the Arts District; also sold at sister coffee shop G&B in Grand Central Market. Bag of coffee beans, $17 and up. gandb.coffee
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Habanero hot sauce from Playa Provisions
Spice up the holidays with something other than a pumpkin spice latte. Playa Provisions in Playa Del Rey makes a thick housemade hot sauce with a bright orange hue thanks to the inclusion of carrots; other ingredients include habanero, garlic, salt, thyme, all-spice, mustard seeds and cloves. $9. playaprovisions.com
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Pickles from Banh Oui
Longtime pop-up Banh Oui finally has a standalone restaurant in Hollywood, where it serves modern takes on banh mi and other Vietnamese eats. Its crunchy, tart bread and butter pickles are sold in the grab 'n’ go case as well as its pickled Fresno chilis with shallots. $6 each. banhoui.com
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DKAs from Dominique Ansel
Dominique Ansel’s famous cronut needs to be consumed within hours of purchase, but the DKAs — his take on the kouign-amann — have a better shelf life. The bakery at the Grove sells them individually or in a box of four. Box of four DKAs: $23. dominiqueansella.com
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Laura Ann’s jams
Whether you’re looking for the perfect topping for a batch of fresh biscuits or considering items to accompany a cheese platter, Laura Ann’s jams are always handy to have on hand. A former punk rock drummer turned artisanal jam-maker, Laura Ann Masura is known for her creatively flavored jams — flavors include everything from bourbon blood orange marmalade to wild blueberry almond — originally inspired by farmers markets and trips to area farms. A four-pack gift box contains your choice of flavors along with a handwritten note. $35. lauraannsjams.com
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Spice Station infused sugars set
Please the sweet tooth in your life with a set of infused sugars, perfect for everything from flavoring coffee to incorporating in scones, cookies or topping a deep-dish pie. Made from raw sugar cane, the set includes nine naturally-infused flavors with flavor possibilities including ginger, wild blueberry, raspberry, vanilla bean, clove, toasted coconut, dark cocoa, espresso and strawberry sugars (alternate flavors include cinnamon, habanero, salty-caramel and sweet onion sugars). $50. spicestationsilverlake.com
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Mixing pour bowl
Based in East Los Angeles and inspired by his rustic Vermont heritage, Sheldon Ceramics is a pottery studio run by ceramicist Peter Sheldon. Among the many distinctive handmade pieces, Sheldon offers a stoneware clay mixing bowl perfect for everyday use or display and measuring 10.3 inches in diameter and are 4.25 inches high. $165. sheldonceramics.com
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French rolling pins
In 2011, Los Angeles-based craftsman Ryan Silverman and former chef Eileen O’Dea formed the Wooden Palate, focused on creating luxury heirloom pieces for the kitchen. Their French rolling pins are hand turned and shaped from a solid block of reclaimed Atlantic City Boardwalk South American hardwood. Beautiful enough to display, they’re perfect to use for everything from cookies to pizza to pie. $55. thewoodenpalate.com
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Duff’s Cakemix
Express your creativity decorating cakes and cupcakes like a pro at celebrity baker and Food Network star Duff Goldman's ("Ace of Cakes") shops in Los Angeles, Pasadena and Tarzana. Treat the adult — or child — baker in your life to a sweet design experience including cake or cupcakes, design tools, toppings and expert guidance. $40 and up. giftbar.com
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Hipcooks cooking class
Hipcooks offers classes in everything from dim sum to sushi, to pasta and Thai. And you can attend a class in West or East L.A., Woodland Hills, Orange County and San Diego. $75. hipcooks.com
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Hedley & Bennett Vans x HB apron
If you're a cook in Los Angeles, you should have a Hedley & Bennet apron. And the L.A.-based brand has a stellar apron made in collaboration with local company Vans. $85. hedleyandbennett.com
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Celebrity spatulas
No Kid Hungry chef spatulas features spatulas designed by L.A.’s Gwen Stefani, Jesse Tyler Ferguson and more. And we all Know all cooks need a dependable spatula. Why not buy one for a good cause? Proceeds from the No Kid Hungry spatulas benefit the organization. $13.95. williams-sonoma.com
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Neighborhood cutting board
You can customize this tempered glass cutting board to showcase any L.A. neighborhood for an extra special touch of home in the kitchen. $50. uncommongoods.com
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The sky’s the limit
Surfas is a cook's L.A. playground that offers everything from giant sheet pans to piping bags and stock pots. Your wallet decides the price. surfasonline.com
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Serving platter
All the ceramic work from Knotwork is made by Los Angeles freelance industrial designer Linda Hsiao, who creates small ceramic and wood work. Her rainbow oval serving platter is the perfect gift for your favorite host or hostess. $240. knotwork.bigcartel.com
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Tote it all
Whether you’re going to the farmers market or Whole Foods, everyone needs a dependable tote bag. This Rewilder Cornerstone tote is made from 100% salvaged beer filter cloth and climbing ropes from local gyms. And the brand makes everything at its studio in Los Angeles. $128. rewilder.com
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Give the gift of a food tour of some of L.A.'s hottest neighborhoods. It will be delicious inspiration for any cook.
Give the gift of a food tour of some of L.A.'s hottest neighborhoods. It will be delicious inspiration for any cook. $75. foodtoursoflosangeles.com
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Comal
Every Los Angeles cook should own a comal. It's the best way to make tortillas and blister chiles for all those taco parties in your future. $19.99. amazon.com
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Bamboo steamer basket
This steamer is designed to be used with a wok. So you can re-create your favorite dumplings and rice from the San Gabriel Valley at home. $29.95. williams-sonoma.com
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Mochi ice cream kit
For the baker who has not forayed into mochi making, UCSB alum Carley Sheehy’s DIY Mochi Ice Cream Kit introduces the process and includes basic ingredients, tools and instructions (ice cream not included). There are options for two colors, and you choose your own favorite ice cream. $30. globalgrub.com
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Exotic fruits
Do you know a baker looking to expand their repertoire of fruit tarts and pies? Vernon-based Melissa’s Produce offers a subscription service of exotic fruits. The 12-month option includes a Melissa’s Deluxe Exotic and Tropical Fruit Basket as the selection for the first month. Each following month features a seasonal item. $123.95 for a three-month subscription. melissas.com
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Pure chocolate
In Culver City, artisan chocolate maker Patricia Tsai stone-grinds cacao beans the way the Mayans and Aztecs did it more than 2000 years ago. Pure chocolate for baking (or eating or drinking) is available in bars, nibs or powder and is dairy-, soy- and additive-free. Bars start at $8. chocovivo.com
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Learn something new
Feed someone’s inner baker with a class at Santa Monica’s Gourmandise School of Sweets and Savories. Topics such as breads, cake decorating, macarons and pies are addressed in single classes or as part of a series. Professional level classes are available as well. Gift certificates — for any amount you choose — never expire. Three-hour classes start at $85. thegourmandiseschool.com
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Daily bread
For your friend the bread baker, the Ultimate Bread Baker gift basket from Pasadena-based artisanal millers Grist & Toll comes with three seasonal bread flours, a dough whisk, a banneton, a flour sack and a lame for scoring as well as three bread recipes — in case your bread baker friend doesn’t have enough recipes of their own. $100. gristandtoll.com
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Raw honey
For someone who prefers to bake with honey, Downey-based Honey Pacifica offers raw, unheated, unfiltered and unprocessed honey in floral varietals and flavors. The honey is hand packed into glass jars. Honeycomb is available as well. Choose from variety of gift packs and sample sets. $8 and up. honeypacifica.com
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A la mode
Dish up your freshly made ice cream with a one-of-a-kind scoop that sports a unique handle, hand-crafted in West L.A. by native Angelino, Keven Brooks. Each handle is individually fashioned from acrylic, resin or hardwood harvested from eco-friendly forests and can be detached from the stainless-steel scooper for easy cleaning. $50 for this Purpleheart ice cream scoop. custom-woodturning.com
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Entertaining
Cocktail glasses
We suspect some of your gift recipients like to sample a little whiskey upon occasion — and this glass may inspire a new hobby: sipping and spinning. It's designed to spin — in place — but it won't tumble over, unlike your former college roommate who couldn't hold his liquor. These Spinning Whiskey & Spirits glasses are from Epicureanist, a brand that is part of Southern California's Vinotemp empire. $21.95. thegrommet.com
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Hand-blown glass
These black hand-blown Canyon glass cups, from L.A.'s Neptune Glassworks and embellished with 23k gold, could be the perfect vessel for your favorite Negroni. $180 for a pair. neptuneglassworks.com
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Decanter
Sempli, a design company based in Los Angeles, produces barware that looks a little askew. Maybe this Vaso Aqua Crystal Decanter will be the perfect piece to use on New Year's Eve? $50. thegrommet.com
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Dipping set
The hamsa is said to symbolize peace, prosperity and power. The L.A. retailers in charge of Kamsah decor have a collection that includes a hamsa-as-party-platter (a large plate and smaller serving pieces that fit together). The Kamsah Dipping Set can hold snacks, dips and nuts — or anything you want to serve your friends (or anything your friends want to serve you). $45. thegrommet.com
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Teapot
Designer Russel Wright may be best known for his American Modern ceramic dinnerware (introduced in 1939). Today the line — including the sleek American Modern Teapot, which comes in many colors — is made by Bauer Pottery of Southern California. Your Anglophile friends — and anyone else — will thank you. $100. bauerpottery.com
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Snack bowls
Some of your friends may define "party" as an opportunity to open a bag of chips and a bottle of coconut rum. We're hoping the spirit of the season will inspire you to help them. You might want to gift them with serving pieces like this enamel and mango wood serving bowl, which could hold chips or, perhaps, some spicy pickled beets or chili-toasted Marcona almonds. Get in your car and drive to D.L. Rhein in Palms, at 3303 Motor Ave., Los Angeles. Your friends will thank you. $24. dlrhein.com
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Butter at the ready
The guests at your holiday table don't want to deal with a hard lump of butter — they want a soft spread for that ancient grain loaf from Lodge Bread. The Butter Bell lets you store butter on the counter or table for up to three weeks. $24.95. thegrommet.com
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Napkins and table runners
Parachute, based in Venice, launched in 2014 with products that fall under the high-end bedding category and has expanded to include items for the bath, baby, and "decor and living." Check out the soft linen table runners and napkins that come in a variety of colors (just in case you want to mix and match). Linen table runner, $49; linen napkins (set of two), $29. parachutehome.com
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Porcelain milk vases
These vases — made in Robert Siegel's Los Angeles studio — come with a bold accent color and a minimalist vibe. Sure, these porcelain milk vases can showcase flowers but can't you envision them also holding your pens or paint brushes? $90 for set of three . thegrommet.com
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Multi-stem vase
Heath Ceramics has been producing iconic dinnerware and tabletop items for decades. The Heath lineup includes a series of vases that will transform a mantle or book shelf or dinner table — with or without blooms. This Multi-Stem Vase is part of a winter seasonal collection. $148. heathceramics.com
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Tea towels
Before you try to shut down the idea of tea towels as a gift, check out the offerings at Spitfire Girl (a website and two local stores, 1939 1/2 Hillhurst Ave. and 7401 Melrose Ave.) The gifts and serving pieces are nothing like the stuff you inherited from your Aunt Adele. $14.50. spitfiregirl.com
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Candlesticks
This is the time of year when we break out the candlesticks — or wrap them as gifts. Southern California's Bauer Pottery makes several, including this one, which holds a standard taper and comes in colors like French blue and parrot green. $17. bauerpottery.com
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Cactus tea lights
Yolk is an L.A. indie design and gift operation with two L.A. locations (1626 Silver Lake Blvd. in Silver Lake, and 1320 E. 7th St. #116 in DTLA) and a wonderful sense of whimsy. Whoever is in charge of stocking the shelves understands that Southern California hosts and hostesses are just as concerned with fun as they are with fish forks — and sometimes fun means cactus tea lights. Trust us. $16, for a set of six. shopyolk.com
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Night light
We're pretty sure you've never seen a nightlight quite like this one. The Rubik's Nightlight in solid brass comes from Neptune Glassworks in downtown L.A. and may inspire more than a few dreams drenched in steampunk style. $90. neptuneglassworks.com
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Coasters
Do you have a coaster phobia? Perhaps no one has explained to you that they don't have to be made of cardboard and stamped with your former boyfriend's favorite brand of beer. At D.L. Rhein, a small jewel box of a shop in Palms — at 3303 Motor Ave, Los Angeles — that's dedicated to home decor and jewelry and gifts, you can find a selection of elegant pieces that will sit beautifully under a tequila cocktail or a flute of champagne. $45 for set of four cement and brass coasters. dlrhein.com
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Lamp
This Emergence lamp, from L.A.'s Neptune Glassworks, consists of nine identical curves, and we could stare at it for hours. If you're pondering this as a holiday gift (or a little something for yourself), the lead time is four weeks. 1,200. neptuneglassworks.com
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Fire ring
Someone you love is going to be ecstatic when they discover you've gifted them with a fire ring — something to take away the chill at their next outdoor party and bring guests closer together, literally and figuratively. The ring, from the Costa Mesa-based Haskell Collection, is made from steel with a thermal ceramic coating. $890. haskellcollection.com
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Experiences
Be bold
Maude Bouldin may not be a household name — but the first-ever female hotel general manager is the inspiration behind the "Bold Like Bouldin" holiday package at the Hotel Figueroa, which she ran when it opened in 1926. Guests check in to its Casablanca suite for five nights, which has a private passage to the ultra-exclusive Bar Alta, can invite a few friends for dinner, take part in a cocktail-making class, have use of a Tesla Model X and get up to $10,000 toward private jet flights. Bookings at (877) 724-1973. $20,000. hotelfigueroa.com
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Truly unplug
If you hang up that "Gone Fishing" sign, mean it. The remote Tikchik Narrows Lodge in the pristine Bristol Bay region of Alaska can accessed by only a private floatplane. Once there, commit to a week of guided daily fly out fishing excursions and relaxing in rustic, lake-front lodges. $8,700 per person per week based on double occupancy. tikchiklodge.com
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Road trip
Take to the open coastal California roads with the Quail Moto Rally Experience: Guests of the Quail Lodge & Golf Club in Carmel can choose from any of four routes around the Monterey Peninsula behind the wheel of a rented vintage or luxury car. Options include the Scenic Route — 148 miles, two vineyard stops and a picnic lunch, or the Cruise Control California Tour — which includes a visit to the Canepa Motorsports Museum in Scotts Valley. $280 per person and up, excluding hotel stay. quaillodge.com
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Bottoms up
For the whisky lover in your life: A visit to the Jack Daniel's distillery in Lynchburg, Tenn., where after a tour of the distillery and a tasting of the Single Barrel Collection, they get to pick one — yes, an entire barrel — to be bottled and shipped to them. The package also includes the personalized barrelhead, the bottles and a crystal decanter and glasses. Travel to Lynchburg and accommodations not included. Barrels start at $10,000. jackdaniels.com
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Explore away
If you’ve got an overflowing bucket list, Explorer's Passage arranges adventure-trips-on-steroids; trekking through the sacred Kingdom of Mustang in Nepal, scaling Kilimanjaro or next June’s trip to the Arctic with explorer Robert Swan. Prices vary, but the Swan-led trip is approximately $15,000 per person for 12 days, excluding flights to Oslo. explorerspassage.com
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Tricked out RV
Closer to home and easier on the pocketbook is a road trip in a Jucy RV, the colorful green and purple minivans with rooftop living quarters. Each van comes with a stove-top and refrigerator, table and bench seats, and can sleep up to four. The vans can be picked up in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Las Vegas and Vancouver. Around $40 to $140 a night. jucyrentals.com
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The Ultimate Hang
Boasting chefs such as Michael Mina, stand-up comedy by Jenny Slate and musical performances by the Chainsmokers, Kaaboo Cayman hits every pop-culture note. The two-day February festival in the Cayman Islands will also feature an art fair, Vegas-styled day club and spa services. Feb. 15 and 16 in Grand Cayman. Passes range from $350 to the "Ultimate Hang" admission for $17,500. kaaboocayman.com
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Hand over devices
Getaway, a company wth small cabins nestled in the forest in various East Coast regions, is heading West. The brand is bringing 40 of its tiny — 136 to 200 square feet — cabins to Running Springs, in San Bernardino County. Designed for up to four people, the structures have a micro kitchen and bathroom and an area outside with a fire pit and cooking grate. The idea is to store your devices in the lockbox, disconnect and decompress. Prices start at $99 a night. getaway.house
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Sugar lessons
New and more accomplished bakers can be gifted a lesson in the modern kitchens of chef Christina Tosi’s Milk Bar, learning how to make the eatery’s signature Pumpkin Dulce de Leche cake, the chef’s legendary crack pie or the holiday special, a peppermint bark cake. Take home the finished product. $95 and up. milkbarstore.com
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Dress to impress
For the hardcore fashionista — Montage Laguna Beach is offering its "The Ultimate Fashion Experience to Remember," an over-the-top three days at the chic hotel. In addition to staying in the 2,800 square feet beachside Catalina Suite, the offering includes a chef tasting menu, daily breakfast for four, and a visit to South Coast Plaza where fashion influencer Jacey Duprie will help you spend $100,000 during private appointments at boutiques like Valentino and Dior. $175,000 for up to four people. montagehotels.com
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Me, me, me, me
In search of some "me time"? Los Angeles based-influencer Stacie Krajchir-Tom, a former student of art textiles, is holding a series of workshops on how to dye textiles using seasonal fruits, vegetables and plants. There are also classes in indigo dip dye and shibori, a Japanese dyeing technique, and weaving wall hangings. Between $70 and $150 per person, various locations and dates. pancakesandhula.com
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D.I.Y. skis
Ski buffs can learn how to make their own equipment at the Parlor Custom Ski Building workshop in Boston. After a consult with the company’s craftsmen about your preferences — where, when and how you ski — you will be guided in creating a customized pair over a two-day hands-on session. $1,500 for the ski fitting, custom graphics, the finished skis and meals. parlorskis.com
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What is your intention?
A stay at the Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach in Oahu can include its new "Plant Your Intentions" package. Between January and March, guests can sign up for sessions that include astrological readings, creating their vision board, life-coaching, journaling and guided visualizations. The sessions culminate with a planting of their intentions, while returning indigenous trees back to the earth. $935 per night for a minimum of three nights. alohilaniresort.com
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Fitness on the high seas
For those who can’t get enough Zumba, the energetic exercise form will be offered ad infinitum on a cruise next March to the Bahamas and Haiti. Some 50 of the top Zumba instructors from around the world will convene on the ship, alongside DJs, and put on classes like Aqua Zumba, Zumba Toning and Strong by Zumba, which has no dance and is all about the bootcamp. The Royal Caribbean ship leaves from Miami on March 24. $929 and up per person. zumba-cruise.com
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Fashion forward
Initial pendants
Get personal with a made-in-L.A.14-karat gold Initial Necklace by Gabriela Artigas & Company in Beverly Grove. $280 with pavé diamond, $195 without. gabrielaartigas.com
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City carryall
Brothers Raan and Shea Parton partner with a team of global artisans to create fashion with a social conscience for their label Apolis. Their latest collab is with L.A. artist Geoff McFetridge for this limited-edition jute Market Bag with leather straps, at Apolis: Common Gallery in DTLA. $68. apolisglobal.com
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Hair jewelry
Known for her timeless bags and shoes and sculptural brass jewelry, Santa Barbara designer Kendall Conrad has extended into hair accessories; brass Abanico hair hook, at Kendall Conrad in Brentwood. $130, also in sterling silver. kendallconraddesign.com
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Custom coin case
Los Angeles accessories designer Clare Vivier offers an array of colorful, personalized presents including this Clare V. leather Coin Clutch. $55, with a hand-painted monogram, $50 for first letter, $25 for additional letters . clarev.com
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Palm-print scarf
LA Original and Pocket Square Clothing have teamed for a collection of palm-print ties and scarves and this Brentwood pocket square, with a percentage of proceeds benefiting Downtown Women’s Center. $35. pocketsquareclothing.com
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Skater pants
A nod to L.A. street artist Shepard Fairey’s skater history, these checkered cotton Hardwork Labor men’s carpenter pants from Fairey’s Obey Clothing line are long on street cred. $68. obeyclothing.com
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First-class valet tray
Keep them organized with a chic stash for jewelry, pocket change or other valuables. Elisabeth Weinstock’s handcrafted glazed water snake Quebec travel valet (6 inches by 6 inches, in a variety of colors) at Elisabeth Weinstock in Beverly Grove. $140. elisabethweinstock.com
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Tube socks
Tube socks are forever-cool, and who doesn’t need more? Especially when they’re from the new Entireworld brand by Band of Outsiders founder Scott Sternberg. The men’s recycled cotton Six Stripey Socks set comes in a gift box. $75. theentireworld.com
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Vegan-friendly dopp kit
This new L.A. company crafts cruelty-free, luxury travel accessories using hand-cast rubber molds of exotic skins. The Artifact Eight vulcanized rubber toiletry case with python texture comes in a choice of seven colors. $195. artifacteight.com
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Beaded wristlet
From the minimalist local handbag and accessories brand-with-a-buzz Building Block: A leather Cylinder Wristlet bag with a beaded bracelet handle, at Building Block in Chinatown. $495. building--block.com
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Insta-ready tee
Hollywood 101: A paparazzi-proof tee. Monogram cotton “No Photos” T-shirt, at select Barneys New York stores. $65. barneys.com and monogramstudio.com
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Tweed sneaks
The ultimate Cali skater shoe gets an elegant holiday upgrade in metallic tweed. Vans women’s checkered OG Old Skool LX tweed sneakers, exclusively at select Barneys New York stores. $100. barneys.com
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Fresh friendship bracelet
A new take on the friendship bracelet. L.A. jewelry designer Adina Reyter pairs engravable 14-karat yellow gold and pavé diamond pendants (in multiple shapes, also in sterling silver) with nylon bands in a multitude of colors. $298 and up (or $148 and up for sterling silver) . adinareyter.com
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Sleeping bag shoes
The latest Toms shoes, inspired by a sleeping bag, in styles for guy, girls and the little ones. Toms quilted nylon men’s Alpargata shoe with faux shearling lining, at Toms in Venice $59.95. toms.com
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Denim puffer
L.A. is the denim capital, after all. Send him warm regards in the form of this can’t-go-wrong Lucky Brand men’s denim puffer vest with shearling lining at Lucky Brand stores. $129. luckybrand.com
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On track
A little inspiration for his new year’s fitness resolutions. Brandblack men’s 3D-printed, mesh-lined nylon Audrey track jacket and Malkit track pants, at American Rag Cie in Hancock Park. $165 and up. brandblack.com
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Heirloom ring
From the brand-new L.A. fine jewelry brand dedicated to daughters and moms: Babygold handcrafted U Pave Moyen Bar ID ring in recycled 14-karat gold hand set with .5 carats of diamonds, engraved on front and back. $750, also in rose or white gold. babygold.com
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Fancy footwear
George Esquivel’s artisanal shoes, meticulously handcrafted in Orange County, are a footwear fantasy: Esquivel women’s Dana boot features gold distressed leather with handmade fabric laces. $895. esquivelshoes.com
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PJ party
For ladies who lounge, Rails striped button-down Toledo Stripe sleep shirt and short set. Also at Nordstrom stores. $158. railsclothing.com
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Cali classic
Possibly the most minimalist design from self-described “maximalist” L.A. designer Johnson Hartig’s Libertine line: Libertine button-front shirt with crystal “L.A.” embellishment. $500. ilovelibertine.com
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Rock her world
Local boho-chic jeweler-to-the-stars Jacquie Aiche’s 14-karat gold shaker necklace with diamond bezels and one-of-a-kind hand-carved tourmaline leaves. $5,000. jacquieaiche.com
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Gilded glasses
Leave it to Tom Ford to design the most glam sunglasses in Hollywood. Tom Ford special-edition 18-karat gold plated Winter sunglasses created for holiday 2018, at Tom Ford in Beverly Hills. $2,450. tomford.com
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Customized hat
A rock-star hat that looks like an old favorite is an L.A.-style essential. Nick Fouquet handcrafted beaver felt Crystal Mist hat with grosgrain band made to order in 27 colors, at Nick Fouquet in Venice. $1,225. nickfouquet.com
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Entrance-making earrings
Count on jewelry designer Irene Neuwirth for the most covetable ear candy. One-of-a-kind 18-karat gold drop earrings with 30.41 carats of bi-color tourmaline and .54 carats of full cut diamonds, at Irene Neuwirth in West Hollywood. $16,860. ireneneuwirth.com
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Cali cashmere
Wake up any wardrobe with colorful cashmere that shouts out a devotion to the California Republic. The Elder Statesman unisex hand-dyed cashmere sweater with intarsia knit, at the Elder Statesman in West Hollywood, $1,785. elder-statesman.com
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Gardening
Bypass Pruners
Every gardener requires a good pruner and Corona — based, yes, in Corona, Calif. — makes some of the best. Now the company has put one of its popular bypass pruners into a bonus pack perfect for gift giving. In addition to pruners capable of cutting branches 1-inch thick, the pack also includes a nylon scabbard you can clip to your pants, so your clippers are always handy (no more losing them in a thicket of cuttings when you absentmindedly put them down), and there’s also a pocket to hold your sharpener, so you don’t have to go searching in the tool shed every time your blades go dull. $59.99. coronatoolsusa.com
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Sloggers
Gardens are tough on shoes, so why not buy a pair of sturdy, waterproof slip-on Sloggers that come in a riot of colors and can be easily washed with a hose? (The chicken print is their most popular.) Made right in Gardena, in women’s sizes 6-11 (men’s sizes too, but only in brown or black) They also sell waterproof boots, which are especially popular with people who muck out barns (no kidding). $29.99. sloggers.com
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Mini Hula-Ho
Any serious gardener knows about the Hula-Ho, which makes weeding as simple as raking a hoe across the soil. Now Flexrake, the Temple City-based makers of the original Hula-Ho, have created the Mini Hula-Ho for small space gardens, or working on your hands and knees in densely planted areas. The weeder and soil cultivator has a 10-inch wooden handle and cushioned grip. $13. flexrake.com
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Potting scoop
Filling a pot with soil can be messy and exasperating, especially if it’s a big pot and you’re using your hands or a puny trowel. This ample, handsome scoop is part of Flexrake’s collection of classic tools, made right here in L.A. County and can also be useful for filling bird feeders or shoveling fertilizer. Bonus: The scoop’s oak handle will look particularly festive poking out of a holiday stocking with a big red bow. $13. flexrake.com
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Harvest apron
Tired of stretching out your shirt to hold the bounty from your garden? Tara Jane Grier, a fashion designer turned suburban chicken farmer, created Fluffy Layers to bring some bling to garden wear. Her cotton Harvest Aprons tie in the back, with lots of pockets for holding fruit, veggies or whatever else you’re harvesting from the garden. Egg-collecting aprons are also available. $32. fluffylayers.com
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Spear Head spade
If you’re digging in rocky, root-filled soil, the Spear Head Spade is a godsend. Their bright colors make them impossible to lose, and they’re perfect for dividing perennials in tight spaces. The short fiberglass handle with a cushioned grip makes the spade sturdy but lightweight. The foot rests make digging easier, and help keep soil on the blade. $52. amazon.com
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Topanga Patina metal yard art
If the object of your giving loves desert plants but lacks a green thumb, artist Omar Wysong of Topanga Patina has the perfect answer: metal agave, tequila plants and cactuses that look both abstract and remarkably real. These bold handmade sculptures are distinctive, modestly priced and can’t be killed, since they’ll never need soil or water. Prices vary . etsy.com
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Corinthian Bells Wind Chimes
There are wind chimes that tinkle and chimes that clang, and then there are the songs of Corinthian Bells — chimes made from hand-tuned, heavy aluminum tubes with a resonance that keeps humming long after the first note is struck. QMT Windchimes makes these chimes in 10 sizes, and a variety of colors and tones. The smallest (27 inches long) sound like fairies playing, $65. The 74-inch sounds like church bells, $262, and the largest — 78 inches — is a smooth study in bass. $777. You can listen to the tones online. $65 and up. qmtwindchimes.com
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Goatskin rose pruning gloves
Anyone who has tried to prune roses or hack back a thorny bush knows the value of long gauntlet gloves. These half goat, half suede beauties are a seriously awesome gift — the goatskin gloves are thorn proof yet supple and the elbow-length suede cuffs will protect lower arms from all kinds of pricklies. Designed by Exemplary Gardens, in unisex sizes XS to XL. $26. amazon.com
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Touchscreen-friendly gardening gloves
So there you are, digging or planting in the garden when the phone in your pocket starts to buzz. Most gloves don’t work on a touchscreen, so using your phone requires stripping off your gloves (usually with your teeth, while you balance a plant or a tool). Problem solved with these lightweight unisex gloves. The rubber-dipped fingertips let you answer texts and the green bamboo fabric keep hands from getting too hot. Washable in cold water, but do not tumble dry! Sizes small to XXL. $9. amazon.com
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Vintage seed collection
This Vintage Seed Collection from the Theodore Payne Foundation for Wild Flowers & Native Plants is an excellent starter kit for any gardener who wants to go native, with seeds for five of the foundation’s most popular California native plants, plus tags, photos and sowing instructions, all packaged in an attractive aluminum box with a clear lid so you can see what’s inside. Similar kits include seeds for a child’s garden, medicinal and edible plants and plants that provide habitat for pollinators. $15. theodorepayne.org
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Cannabis classes for the home grower
Home growing has never been so popular, now that it’s legal for Californian adults to grow up to six marijuana plants for personal use in a private part of their home or yard. The Fig Earth Supply nursery in Mount Washington offers lots of classes, but one of its most popular has been its cannabis classes for home growers. Tuck a gift certificate in your gardener’s stocking, and maybe, just maybe, they’ll be willing to share come harvest. (Classes don’t include plants or seeds. Call your community’s city hall to make sure there aren’t any local restrictions on growing.) Post-holiday classes start in February. $95. figearthsupply.com
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Custom potting
Sometimes DIY potting can get a little wearisome … so many choices, what if I do it wrong? But with a gift certificate to Rolling Greens’ Arrangement Bar, all recipients have to do is point and smile as the plant “baristas” advise, then assemble the potted arrangement of their desire. Labor costs vary according to the intricacy of the arrangement. A $75 coupon should give recipients ample choices. Gift certificate purchase available in-store only. Your wallet's the limit. rollinggreensnursery.com
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Gifts that give back
Habitat restoration
Nature lovers will appreciate offerings from Parks Project, the Los Angeles brand that supports National Parks, contributing to habitat restoration and wildlife conservation. An example from its collection: this enamel drinking cup, $20. parksproject.us
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For his feet
Beverly Hills menswear store Carroll & Co. has a line of socks in fun prints (skulls and crossbones; paw prints). A portion of proceeds is designated toward cancer research causes. $35. carrollandco.com
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Watch it grow
If you’re out to impress a green-thumbed friend: this tree from PlantOGram might do the trick. It grows carambola (starfruit), and arrives wrapped in a burlap sack tied with a silk bow. Twenty percent of the purchase goes to support multiple sclerosis charity Race to Erase. $89.60. plantogram.com
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Clearing ocean plastic
Furniture brand Yardbird uses intercepted ocean plastic in its collections and will also reclaim and repurpose your pieces once you’re done with them. Smaller offerings from the line include this Accord Koi pillow. 29.99 and up. yardbird.com
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Engage mind and body
It helps to have a basic knowledge of yoga when playing YogaLand, a new board game co-created by Wanda Wen, founder of artisanal paper and accessories brand Soolip. The four-player game is designed for anyone 13 and up and is designed to "engage body and mind, heart and soul." Of each $75 purchase price, $3 will be donated to Los Angeles-based Youth Yoga, a nonprofit that wants to introduce yoga and mindfulness classes to local public schools. $78. yogalandgame.com
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Nasty good
With names like Progress Pink, Pave the Way Chardonnay and Boss Lady Bubbles, wines from Nasty Woman are cleverly packaged and pretty clear in who they’re for. Twenty percent of the company’s net profits go to causes that strive for gender parity, like the Women in Public Service Project (50x50movement.org). The wines range in price from $15 to $36. nastywomanwines.com
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Fighting for fair wages
Artisans in Africa who make products for the Dear Keaton brand are paid a fair wage and use sustainable materials. An example; these Tasseled Brown Sugar Napkin Rings are handmade using naturally dyed sisal and sweetgrass in Rwanda. $30. dearkeaton.com
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Feel the crystal
This being Los Angeles, there’s always going to be somebody in your circle who will appreciate a serious chunk of crystal. Sameer Reddy of Los Angeles-based Soul Candy has a prettily packaged trio of malachite, lapis lazuli and pyrite in his Jewels of Prosperity collection. Keep them close at hand for good vibes or to decorate a tabletop. Proceeds benefit Girls, Inc., dedicated to empowering young girls. $49. soulcandyshop.com
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Cozy blanket
Bob Dalton, founder of Sackcloth & Ashes, elected to align himself with homeless shelters after his mother, a single parent, found herself living on the streets in 2013. With each purchase of a blanket, the company donates one to a homeless shelter. $99. worldmarket.com, sackclothandashes.com
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Clean slate
The pleasantly meditative art of brush painting is at hand with the Buddha Board, allowing users to paint with water that then quickly evaporates, leaving a (metaphoric) clean slate. The company donates to Face To Face, a youth-focused nonprofit in Minnesota. $34.95. buddhaboard.com
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Sweet scents
Cupcakes and candles? Los Angeles-based candle and home fragrance brand Skylar teamed with cupcake brand Sprinkles for this Vanilla Triple Cinnamon scented candle free of paraffin and phthalates. The fragrance has notes of cinnamon bark, vanilla bean and nutmeg. A percentage of proceeds go to Step Up, an organization that helps high-school age girls achieve success. $38. skylar.com
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Benefitting Autism Speaks
The Blue Garden Collection by home scents brand Nest Fragrances was created specifically to benefit Autism Speaks. The fragrances are made from blue hydrangea, hyacinth and forget-me-nots: $48 for reed diffusers and $22 for paraben-free liquid soap. At Nordstrom, Bloomingdale’s and Neiman Marcus. Prices vary. nestfragrances.com
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Helping the homeless
Jewelry like this Amazonite and silver bracelet, $48, from Solana Beach-based designer Brett Lauren, is handmade by women transitioning from local homeless shelters. Most pieces under $100. brettlauren.com
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Spreading help
Designer Garth Roberts created this tray for Gild Assembly, the retail arm of Chicago design firm Studio Gild. The tray is made with hand-laid oak and mirror and has an oxidized finish. Proceeds benefit numerous causes such as the American Brain Tumor Assn. and Cycle for Survival. $245. gildassembly.com
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Helping women
Ranavat Botanics, which makes its ayurveda-inspired beauty and wellness products in Los Angeles, has this Travel Royal Ritual set: throw it in your carry-on for quick access to masques and serums, housed in a hand-silkscreened pouch inspired by vintage saris. A percentage of proceeds is earmarked for charities that help women in India, Nepal and Bangladesh fight human trafficking. $85. ranavatbotanics.com
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Eco seawear
This colorful octopus sculpture was made by Ocean Sole, a social enterprise in Kenya that recycles flip-flops that wash up on the country’s beaches from the Indian Ocean. Sold by Sea Star Beachwear in New York, the piece used 12 recycled sandals. Proceeds go back to Ocean Sole. $45. seastarbeachwear.com
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Dishes & reading
Los Angeles artist Elyse Graham makes striking Reveal ring dishes in resin, using fragments left over from previous works. For every piece sold, Graham donates a new children’s book to the St John’s Well Child and Family Center in Los Angeles, which helps low-income families. $110. elysegraham.com
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Help them hear
For the avid concert-goer in your life or someone who likes their workout music loud, there are Vibes, reusable high-fidelity earplugs that protect the eardrums while keeping sounds crisp and clear. Each purchase provides a donation to Hear the World Foundation, which supplies hearing aids and hearing care to children around the globe. 23.99. discovervibes.com
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Home
Sean Woolsey Studio pingpong table
Craftsman Sean Woolsey fabricates the ultimate design-forward, deluxe game room accessory in his Costa Mesa studio. In addition to the original black walnut model that was released in 2016, Woolsey has added ebonized African mahogany, brass powder coating and hard rock maple finish options to this sleek, modern pingpong table. Starting at $9,500. seanwoolsey.com
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California photography
Take advantage of Pure Photo's curatorial eye to bring an infusion of West Coast style to your home. The company's new Best of the West offerings include pieces by California artists such as Alexandra Naumova and Jin-Woo Prensena. From $200. purephoto.com
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Kissweh pillows
Downtown L.A. denizen Claudia Martinez Mansell has partnered with a secular NGO in Lebanon to import the handiwork of Palestinian refugee embroiderers to the U.S. These dazzlingly intricate, bold needlework textiles are fashioned into pillows, and sold via Kissweh's website, as well as locally at Heath Ceramics (7525 Beverly Blvd.) and the Hammer Museum Store (10899 Wilshire Blvd.) From $320. kissweh.com
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Would Works L.A. City Blocks
Whether for fidgeting or more purposeful building, it's hard to resist a tray of tactile-friendly blocks — especially when there's a larger social mission involved. Would Works collects salvaged trees from L.A. that are then transformed into lumber at a Boyle Heights saw mill. The company trains homeless and individuals facing other hardships in woodworking skills to craft its products. $120. wouldworks.com
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Table linens
Venice resident Emma Wingfield co-founded Five | Six Textiles to help support a weaving cooperative she met while traveling in Côte d'Ivoire. Each collection is a product of a collaborative design process, with napkins and table runners that present both a sense of tradition and a fresh aesthetic take. Sold online and at 503 Found at 503 31st St., Newport Beach. From $75. fiveandsixtextiles.com
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Rule of Three coasters
From her Arts District studio, marble artist and designer Paige Cleveland of Rule of Three has reinvented complex marbling techniques to apply this old tradition to contemporary home goods and accessories. Leather coasters provide a just taste of Rule of Three's output but make a big impact on any table. $85 per set of four. ruleofthreestudio.com
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Mud Australia water pitcher
Mud Australia just celebrated the one-year anniversary of its Los Angeles brick-and-mortar presence — 8216 W. 3rd St. — where the company's delicate but sturdy porcelain ceramics are showcased. Its water jug is an elegant and practical accessory designed with the expert input of chef David Chang. Pick from a range of colors to suit your own environment. $172. us.mudaustralia.com
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Melanie Abrantes burl wood vases
Bay Area artisan Melanie Abrantes Designs considers the inherent qualities in the raw materials she works with to make pieces that are truly one of a kind. Her beautifully textured buckeye burl wood vases are stocked at Kin & Kind at 3229 1/2, Glendale Blvd. in Atwater Village, and online. From $60. melanieabrantes.com
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Pentagon glasses
Neptune Glassworks' Pentagon cocktail glasses are rimmed with 23-karat gold and fit snugly in hand, making you want to toast to holiday cheer as often as possible. Pick up a set online or at Hammer & Spear in the Arts District, 255 S. Santa Fe Ave., not far from master glassblower Uri Davillier's downtown studio. From $140 for two. neptuneglassworks.com
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T.O.R.C.H. candles
T.O.R.C.H. (Thoughts of Rich Choices and Habits) is dedicated to pursuing the most eco-friendly and sustainable components, using coconut wax for its locally hand-poured candles. Repurpose the metallic-finished glass container to keep the holiday vibes going long after you've enjoyed the juniper, pine, herbs and balsam fir scents. $65. torchla.com
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Ceramicists Adi Mizrahi and Ron Hellmann incorporate playful geometry and stunning colorways into their locally made wares: Their Mizrahi Hellman Ceramics can be found at The Arc boutique at 5121 Hollywood Blvd. in Los Feliz, and online.
Ceramicists Adi Mizrahi and Ron Hellmann incorporate playful geometry and stunning colorways into their locally made wares. Mizrahi Hellman Ceramics can be found at The Arc boutique at 5121 Hollywood Blvd. in Los Feliz, and online. From $180. mizrahi-hellmann.com
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Cutting boards
Bad Neighbor boards' elegant silhouettes and silky smooth surfaces made from maple, walnut and poplar woods are a perfect canvas for your holiday cheese and charcuterie spread. Check out the Arts District studio's items in person at Unique L.A.'s Santa Monica holiday market in December, at Spoonfed at 959 Seward St. in Hollywood, and online. From $75. badneighbor.co
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Fresh plant delivery
While givers might be concerned about the short shelf-life of a fresh flower delivery, the Bouqs online florist, founded in Venice, has a selection of gifts that hang around for longer. Pick from an air plant tucked into a wall-hanging pocket or a set of succulents in eclectic yet coordinated ceramic vessels. From $46. bouqs.com
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Deluxe emergency kit
Created by a stylist and a filmmaker in downtown, Preppi takes fashionable disaster preparation seriously. The Prepster bag pre-packs a combination of three-day survival supplies for two people. (Perception of what's essential may vary, depending on whom you ask.) $495. preppi.co
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Singular prints
San Francisco architect and artist Michael Murphy channels his love of California's design heritage into boldly graphic and fun limited edition, signed and numbered prints. His "Supersonic" and "Forgotten Modernism" series depict iconic L.A. locations, such as the LAX Theme Building, Dodger Stadium and John Lautner's Chemosphere house, along with other Golden State treasures. From $150. supersonicmodern.com
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Crystals for beginners
Experts Heather Askinosie and Timmi Jandro help demystify the use of crystals, especially for beginners. You'll find starter kits at Energy Muse's shop in Torrance -- 2301 W. 205th St. #103 -- and online. Prices vary. energymuse.com
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A throw to hold
Presented under the self-evidently descriptive banner Tactile Matter, Altadena-based artist and maker Kenesha Sneed's work begs to be touched. Find this throw, emblazoned with one of Sneed's original designs, on her website and at Otherwild at 1768 N. Vermont Ave. in Los Feliz. $210. tactilematter.com
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Hedley & Bennett x Parachute potholder
L.A. culinary wear powerhouse Ellen Bennett of Hedley & Bennett teamed with local bedding maven Ariel Kaye on a line of linen and cotton kitchen textiles. Safe home cooking never looked this stylish. $29. hedleyandbennett.com, parachutehome.com
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California Lustre drink stirrers
Up your holiday cocktail presentation game with California Lustre's accessories, all designed with celebrating SoCal in mind. Themes include Palm Springs and other lighthearted midcentury Cali imagery and are available in multiple colors at select West Elm stores and online. $16 per set. californialustre.com
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Plant hangers
Give your hanging plants an extra earthy boost while getting in some DIY activity with macrame hanger kits conceived and assembled by fiber artist Elsie Goodwin of Reform Fibers in Chino Hills. Each set comes with complete instructions and materials to make your own hanger. From $38. reformfibers.com
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Kids
V.I.P. bib
A style-wise bib, handmade by Seal Beach company Mini Maniacs, is sure to please superstars-in-the-making. You can find this vegan leather and vinyl Backstage Pass bib at Tweak in Los Angeles. $28. bestgiftstoreever.com
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Biker Babe
For little hipsters, San Diego-based Rylee + Cru’s hand garment-dyed, suede-look biker jacket, at Eggy in Beverly Grove and at Fred Segal in West Hollywood. $88, sizes 2-9. shopeggy.com
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No Sweat
Matching sweat pants for the whole family! Sol Angeles French terry Waves joggers come in sizes for moms, dads and kids of all ages, at Eggy in Beverly Grove. $54 and up. shopeggy.com
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Surfer Style
L.A. designer Ann Lombardo serves up adorable handmade kids fashion with a beachy flair at her Pebbles boutiques: This Surf Van baseball tee at Pebbles in Topanga and Santa Monica. $34. pebblesclothing.com
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Tiny trucker hat
A small variation of Mom’s or Dad’s Smiley Vintage trucker hat by Venice-based Aviator Nation is designed for cool kids of all ages, at all Aviator Nation stores. $37. And check out the Aviator Nation velvet Galaxy Sunburst zip hoodie. $37-$175. aviatornation.com
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Made In the shades
Made In The Shades Because every Angeleno needs some fun sunnies. Designed in L.A. and handcrafted in Italy, Paxley kids Mulholland sunglasses with shatter-resistant UBA and UVB-protective, mirrored lenses come with a pouch and headstrap, at Tweak in Los Angeles. $42. bestgiftstoreever.com
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Itty bitty bag
For shoppers-in-training, a handbag handcrafted in L.A. by designer Erin Murphy: The Everbloom metallic wool felt purse with pompom trim, at Tweak in Los Angeles. $35. bestgiftstoreever.com
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Collectible charm
Everyone’s favorite kitty (from Sanrio, with SoCal headquarters in El Segundo) morphs into a kitschy burger on this Kidrobot x Sanrio limited-edition Hello Kitty plush burger charm for bags or keys, complete with burger box. Also at Urban Outfitter stores. $8.99. kidrobot.com
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Sound machine
Head to the Reckless Unicorn at 2124 Hillhurst Ave. in Los Feliz to browse the coolest kids' clothing and gear, such as this two-in-one star projector and sound machine tool to add some intergalactic pizazz to any space while muffling out unwanted noise. 28. therecklessunicorn.com
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“Los Angeles Is…”
Start building young Angelenos' local pride with this rhyming board book written by Elisa Parhad, with eye-catching illustrations by Alexander Vidal. Each page honors the city's favorite landmarks and unique culture. 12.95. mocastore.org
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St. Frank teepee
Crafted from prints with North African Berber-inspired and Kuba cloth motifs, this indoor piece is far from roughing it in the great outdoors. But it sure makes for a cozy-as-can-be kids' hideaway. Sold via St. Frank's website and at its new Palisades Village shop. 895. stfrank.com
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Dinosaur-themed art set
Use your prehistorically inclined imagination to create unique versions of dinosaurs using the ink pads, rubber stamps and colored pencils included in this kit. 12. giantrobot.com
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Building blocks
Encourage hands-on, three-dimensional experimentation with this Areaware Blockitecture park-building block set. The pieces can help spark young imaginations while playing both indoors and out. $25. poketo.com 25. poketo.com
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Sit and play
Highland Park-based Michaele Simmering and Johannes Pauwen of Kalon Studios created this multi-purpose kids’ accessory made of sustainable resin. The Hut-Hut stool is available in five bright, cheerful colors, and can facilitate quiet contemplation as a stool, or raucous movement when its curved base is placed on the floor. 98. kalonstudios.com
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RBG action figure
Inspire civic participation with an image of a lauded hero of our time: Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg, currently the subject of the exhibition “Notorious RBG: The Life and Times of Ruth Bader Ginsburg” at the Skirball Center. 19.99. shop.skirball.org
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Felted mushroom mount
Dotter at 5027 York Blvd. in Highland Park stocks the unexpected, such as felted animals and mushrooms mounted on a rustic wood round. It's the kind of whimsical gift grownups are as likely to dig as much as the kids do. $26. 26. dotterstore.com
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Cooking classes
With expanded space and more offerings in its new location, send the little ones off to the Gourmandise School of Sweets & Savories 395 Santa Monica Place, third floor, in Santa Monica for some fun while developing skills that'll last a lifetime. Prices vary. thegourmandiseschool.com
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Artists notebooks
Sometimes simple things are best. Pick up these 40-page, compact 4-inch-by-6-inch notebooks featuring fanciful illustrations by L.A. artist Elizabeth Caparaz sold at the always delightful L.A. County Store at 4333 Sunset Blvd. in Silver Lake. 8. lacountystore.com
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“See Future Days” T-shirt
Spread positivity and cheerful graphic design with this T-shirt made in downtown by local children's clothing brand Nico Nico. 46. niconicoclothing.com
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Sushi Go!
This card game's portable pack, lively graphic design and rules that are suitable for all ages make it a great way to pass the time and bolster everyone's sushi and sashimi vocabulary. 13. janmstore.com
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Looking into the future
Charmingly retro technology and a French cultural sensibility merge nicely with La Visionneuse 3D viewer that comes with three film discs, available at Lost and Found's children's boutique at 6320 Yucca St. in Hollywood. 32. lostandfoundshop.com
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Cat throw rug
This room accent by Oeuf brings in some playful energy for cat fans. Aldea Home & Baby stocks this area rug, as well as a dog version for the canine lovers out there, at its recently opened expansive Culver City kid decor emporium at 3825 Main St., Culver City. From $260. aldeahome.com
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Movies
The Big Lebowski 20th Anniversary Gift Set
Introducing one of the most iconic L.A. characters of all time, the Coen brothers' cult classic forever redefined "The Dude" thanks to Jeff Bridges' effortlessly laidback, endlessly quotable performance and an all-star supporting cast including John Goodman, Steve Buscemi, Julianne Moore, Philip Seymour Hoffman, John Turturro and Sam Elliott. Complete with a collectible polishing cloth, bowling bag and ball (that is actually a pencil holder) and sweater packaging, this is one anniversary set guaranteed to really tie the room together. $60 $60. amazon.com
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Dietrich and von Sternberg in Hollywood
No cinematic partnership is more celebrated than that between director Josef von Sternberg and actress Marlene Dietrich. A new boxed set from Criterion, “Dietrich and von Sternberg in Hollywood,” presents the six gorgeous features the pair made in the 1930s, including visual knockouts like “Shanghai Express” and “The Scarlet Empress.” Shop around, as we found wildly different prices.. amazon.com
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Walt Disney's Mickey Mouse: The Ultimate History
Nov. 18 is Mickey Mouse's 90th birthday, and what better way to celebrate the big 9-0 than with a comprehensive look back at his journey from simple pencil drawing to world-famous symbol for one of the most powerful and influential companies in business today. Using unprecedented access to Disney archives, this 500-page whopper collects concept art, story sketches, background paintings, animation drawings and historical photographs for an unforgettable visual journey. $200. amazon.com
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Pioneers: First Women Filmmakers
Dozens of meticulously restored titles are gathered in a collection attempting to recenter the essential role female filmmakers played in the early days of silent cinema. These directors, including Alice Guy-Blaché, Lois Weber and Marion E. Wong, may not be household names, but their work had an invaluable effect on establishing cinematic language as we know it. The six discs' worth of shorts and features made between 1910 and 1929 include bonus content placing the work in context and new musical scores. $100. amazon.com
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From Charlie Chaplin to Chairman Mao
China is not only one of the world’s biggest film markets, it’s home to generations of cinema fans, as Peter Fonoroff’s “Chinese Movie Magazines: From Charlie Chaplin to Chairman Mao, 1921-1951," beautifully demonstrates. The title, from University of California Press, it boasts 500 color images celebrating everyone from Ruan Lingyu to Shirley Temple. Ideal for the movie lover who has everything. $50. amazon.com
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Harry Potter: A Pop-Up Guide to Hogwarts
Matthew Reinhart, the hugely successful artist behind pop-up guides to Pixar, "Star Wars" and "Game of Thrones," casts a beguiling new spell with a 3D exploration of Harry Potter's beloved alma mater. From the Quidditch pitch to Dumbledore's office, no iconic area — either inside or outside — is missing in this volume designed to delight wizards and witches, students and teachers alike. $75. amazon.com
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My Neighbor Totoro 30th Anniversary Edition
That's right, the film that defined Japanese animation behemoth Studio Ghibli has turned 30. And while it will still charm anyone between ages 3 and 103, director Hayao Miyazaki's classic has never been seen — or heard — quite like this before. The jaw-dropping Blu-ray transfer is accompanied by a soundtrack of Joe Hisaishi's delightful score (officially released in North America for the first time) and a 40-page book including fresh essays and breathtaking art. $50. amazon.com
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Ingmar Bergman’s Cinema
In honor of the 100th birthday of the filmmaker who’s been called the most enduring icon of classic art house cinema, Criterion Collection has come up with an ultimate tribute. “Ingmar Bergman’s Cinema” is a 30-Blu-ray boxed set encompassing 39 films, the most comprehensive home video collection of Bergman’s output ever. And there’s even a gorgeous 248-page book thrown into the bargain. $300. amazon.com
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Jurassic Park Adult Coloring Book
Have you ever seen a periwinkle T-Rex? Or a fuchsia velociraptor? Now you can go dino-crazy with every color of the rainbow in this 45-page homage to Steven Spielberg's blockbuster, which turned 25 this year. Equal parts kitschy and relaxing, it'll make you want to stand up and exclaim, "Welcome to Jurassic Park!" $15. amazon.com
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This Is No Dream: Making Rosemary’s Baby
Half a century old, Roman Polanski’s “Rosemary’s Baby” remains one of the most elegant of horror films, and “This Is No Dream: Making Rosemary’s Baby” does it full justice. Film historian James Munn expertly chronicles the ins and outs of a famously troubled production, but the main lure are beautiful reproductions of the superb images of master set photographer Bob Willoughby. $50. amazon.com
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Music
Queen of Soul
Aretha Franklin joined Atlantic Records in 1967 and almost instantly expanded beyond her gospel roots: She added drums and a band at the Muscle Shoals Sound Studio in northern Alabama and definitively married the spiritual and the secular. This December a six-LP set will collect her Atlantic albums from the ‘60s. Rhino has made these available in box set form before but has added a bonus LP of studio outtakes and demos. But if one wants only the hits, earlier this year Rhino issued a must-own two-disc set, “The Atlantic Singles Collection 1967-1970.” From “Respect” to “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman,” you know all these songs. $19.98 to $99.99. rhino.com
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Kate Bush, reissued
The enigmatic British artist has a penchant for the fragile and the otherworldly, her songs taking listeners into offbeat realms and imaginative worlds full of Gothic symphonies, old-world instruments and alternate realities where Elvis still lives. Her music has also long been missing in action on vinyl, but this year her catalog is getting the reissue treatment via four vinyl box sets (or two multi-disc CD sets). For the completist, there will be 18 LPs spread amid the four packages, but the one that may create the most curiosity is the fourth and final set, because this is where the rarities and Bush’s interpretations of other artists’ work resides. $74.98 and up. rhino.com
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Dive into Dylan
Bob Dylan fans will be able to take a deep dive into his critically lauded 1975 album “Blood on the Tracks” with the arrival of the latest volume of the ongoing “Bootleg Series” of archival reissues. In “More Blood, More Tracks — The Bootleg Series, Vol. 14,” Columbia Records/Legacy Recordings have assembled a deluxe, limited-edition box set comprising six CDs of alternate takes and related songs Dylan recorded during sessions that yielded one of the most acclaimed albums of his storied career. A less expansive single disc is also available. $11.98 and up. bobdylan.com
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Beatles box set
Another year, another Beatles 50th-anniversary remix box set. This time, it’s the Fab Four’s sprawling 1968 double album “The Beatles,” a.k.a. the White Album, that’s getting a sonic freshening up, to be accompanied in the seven-disc “super deluxe” box set by dozens of demo recordings and alternate takes of songs — more than 100 tracks in all — from what is the bestselling title of all the fabled quartet’s original studio releases. $24.98 to $530. thebeatles.com
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Still feels like the future
Though the music that comprises the set “The Chic Organization 1977-1979” is all about 40 years old, it still feels like the future. This Rhino collection of five CDs or six LPs showcases the early work of Nile Rodgers and Bernard Edwards, who in Chic — and their work for other artists as the Chic Organization — melded rock, jazz, dance and more to create a disco sound that to this day is influencing all strands of pop and R&B. Included here are Chic’s first three albums, Sister Sledge's “We Are Family” and an assortment of rarities. $54.98 to $124.98. rhino.com
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A living mystery
After releasing seven studio albums, Bobbie Gentry receded from public view. While her reasons remain a mystery — Gentry doesn’t grant interviews — the great tragedy is that her music often doesn’t get its just due. The massive “The Girl From Chickasaw County — The Complete Capitol Masters” should correct that, as Gentry’s Southern country-soul had a rock ‘n’ roll edge and influenced everyone from Reba McEntire to Taylor Swift. Her music could be alternately stately or fiery, but it was always a statement of empowerment. $109.99. bobbiegentry.org.uk
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What Tom Petty left behind
Shortly before his death last year, Petty had just wrapped a 40th-anniversary tour with his band the Heartbreakers. He was already plotting his next outing. With a reputation for relentlessly working and touring, it’s no shock Petty left behind a wealth of material, and “An American Treasure” contains many little-heard gems, alternate takes and thrilling live cuts that span Petty’s still too-short career. $15.99 - $149.98. tompetty.com
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Liz Phair at 25
Matador Records marked the 25th anniversary of Liz Phair’s groundbreaking “Exile in Guyville” with the revealing “Girly-Sound To Guyville: The 25th Anniversary Box Set.” The seven LPs contain Phair’s intimate home recordings, many of which resurfaced in more polished form on “Guyville.” Everything here is vital, as these songs make clear that the #MeToo/TimesUp era would come as no surprise to anyone who was listening. $89.99. matadorrecords.com
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Beyond the Clash
When Joe Strummer died at the relatively young age of 50 in 2002, his post-Clash career seemed to have just hit its stride, as his new band the Mescaleros was consistently touring and releasing new music. The new collection “Joe Strummer OO1,” available in multiple configurations including an expansive box set that even contains a replica of Strummer’s California driving license, takes a deep dive on the often-overlooked music that Strummer created outside of the Clash. $10.99 - $119. joestrummer.com
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Pets
It crinkles, it bounces
Vee Enterprises has spent decades concocting "purrfect" toys for humans to tease (or perhaps, torment?) their cats. This Crinkle Bouncer Toy (with a long wand and tons of feathers) could entertain Oliver and Luna for hours. $7, $7. amazon.com
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Pounce on a peacock
OoMaloo is a family-owned and -operated company in Southern California that specializes in hand-made toys, apparel and accessories for pets. The company's dog toys include fanciful aliens, balls, bones and a wide assortment of animals. This peacock comes in three sizes, and each one contains a serious squeaker inside. We suspect it might appeal to felines as well. $14.40 and up. oomaloo.com
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Yoga cat mat
We hate to contribute to all the stereotypes about Southern California, but your cat may need a yoga mat. (You read that correctly.) "The Yoga Cat Mat" is the signature product of Feline Yogi, an Etsy shop, and according to the website, it will serve as a cat toy, scratcher and lounger "all rolled into one." $25 and up. etsy.com
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Knitted mice
It may be a cliché, but cats really do seem to be attracted to mice — and anything that resembles the real thing. Handmeowade (an Etsy shop) will stuff your knitted mouse with fiber or catnip, and if your feline fancies another creature — caterpillars or lizards or snails, for example — you've got options. $20 and up. etsy.com
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Doggone good
The Dog for Dog crinkle toys come in multiple characters — a raccoon, a fox, or a squirrel — and the crinkle may prove to be addictive. What's more, Century City-based-Dog for Dog donates a portion of all sales to help dogs in need. (For those of you who live with a feline companion, we'll let you in on a little secret: We're pretty sure cats will go crazy for this toy.) $12.99. petprojectla.com
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Carrots for cats??
"Cats" and "carrots" are two words you might not use in the same sentence — on a regular basis. But these carrots, just for play, might alter your vocabulary. $14.95. healthyspot.com
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Dinnertime!
Bauer Pottery, whose website proudly states that its pieces are "handmade in sunny California," is prized by collectors, decorators and entertainers. Does Bauer's lineup include bowls for dogs and cats? We can't believe you had to ask. $24 and up. bauerpottery.com
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Automatic feeder
Pity the poor Angeleno who has an overweight dog or cat? Los Angeles-based Petnet may have a solution — a wi-fi-connected automatic device called the SmartFeeder that lets you personalize meal times and portions, order pet food — and, of course, feed from your phone. $179. petnet.io
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For your bunny
There are countless gift possibilities for cats and dogs. But small animals (rabbits, hamsters, etc) could use a little love as well. This year you could surprise Thumper with a package of Banana Treats from Pet Project L.A., a website and bricks and mortar store — 548 S. Spring St., Suite 107 — in downtown Los Angeles. $5.49 and up. petprojectla.com
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Zombie Apocalypse Dog Cookies
If you watch TV or go to the movies, read YA or indulge in video games, you already know that we live in an age of post-apocalyptic pop culture. Did you ever think your dog might want to be part of it? A bag of the Real Meat Company's Zombie Apocalypse Dog Cookies, available at Pet Project L.A. — 548 S. Spring St., Suite 107 — may be in order. $18.75 and up. petprojectla.com
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Your dog needs a sweater vest
Bosspup is an L.A.-based company that embraces the concept of doggy dress-up. The (Black Heart) Sweater Vest comes in several sizes, and we are happy to report it also comes in pink. $17. bosspup.com
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Go team!
A Dodgers T-shirt will always be appropriate for the canine in your life. This Let's Play Ball Dodger Tee from Wag City Clothing is available at Pet Project L.A. $25.99. petprojectla.com
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A tank top for your dog
Why would anyone dress a dog for a day at the beach? Because your beloved canine can wear a tank top, that's why. L.A.-based Bosspup offers the Beachy Bro Tank Top in a boldly striped fabric. $25. bosspup.com
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Bow ties for dogs
If you think no one wants to include a bow tie on their list of necessary pet accessories, you haven't been doing your research (just Google "bow ties for dogs" and report back to us). At Bosspup, based in Los Angeles, they come in several colors and patterns. $14. bosspup.com
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"Puppy Styles"
"Puppy Styled" isn't exactly a gift for your pet — but it might make you see your nonhuman companion in a new light or it might inspire you to adopt a new friend. Los Angeles photographer and author Grace Chon has pulled together a series of images of Japanese dog grooming (before and after shots), and we're pretty sure you will find it irresistible. $11. amazon.com
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Puppy play pen
If they have portable play pens for babies, why not for dogs? This one comes in red or black and is breathable, collapsible and flexible. It's from Dog for Dog, a Century City-based organization that works with manufacturers and retailers to create a collection of products and a lot of good will. Dog for Dog donates a portion of all sales to help dogs in need. $69.99. petprojectla.com
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Luxury bed
If your dog is king or queen of your castle, this is a bed that may be worthy of that status. The "Two-Headed Monster" from Barkiture comes in three sizes. You have a choice of upholstery and laminates. $950. barkiture.com
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Doggie car seat
Palm Springs-based Animals Matter offers a series of beds, blankets, and car seats (among other goods) for our animal companions, and proceeds go to programs such as Dogs Playing for Life, which helps shelters use play as a therapy and socialization tool. This L.A. Dog Company Studio Car Seat has a microfiber cover that can be machine washed. $169.99 and up. animalsmatter.com
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Stocking stuffers
Throwback camera
Nostalgia is strong, which is why the Polaroid Originals instant cameras were updated and brought back in stock. It’s a present that comes in handy when you want to record the holidays with the instant gratification of printed photos. Gold and red holiday film is available to purchase separately. OneStep 2 Viewfinder i-Type Camera. $119. polaroidoriginals.com
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Handmade jewelry
When Nina Berenato designs jewelry she wants the women who wear it to feel like they are putting on armor. The result is statement pieces like the lily or serpent three finger rings. Her jewelry designs landed in Vogue pages and have been worn by the likes of Lady Gaga and Alicia Keys. $108 to $113. ninaberenato.com
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Fandom jewelry
Brandon Schoolhouse might have worked all the jobs you can think of in Hollywood’s music and art scenes. His moniker and jewelry business, Han Cholo, is steeped in music, sci-fi, fantasy and L.A. culture. Fans of the brand include Gwen Stefani and Snoop Dogg. Rings range from homage to Tupac to the DeLorean license plate in “Back to the Future.” $40 and up. hancholo.com
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D.I.Y. slime
There are countless YouTube videos about how to make your own slime, with millions of views. Retailers took notice, including Nickelodeon. The kit will be a hit with younger crowd members who enjoy watching the network’s iconic goo dumped on a person’s head. $10.99. cra-z-artshop.com, walmart.com or amazon.com
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Retro toys
If staying at home is more your speed, retro games is the way to go. Kip’s Toyland bills itself as L.A.'s oldest toy store. Family-owned and operated since 1945, it carries nostalgic toys from every generation, but you won’t find any toys that need to be plugged in. Don't bother with the website. You will have to walk into their Original Farmer’s Market location for the full nostalgic effect, such as Dominoes and an Etch-A-Sketch. All price points. kipstoyland.com
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Camping utensils
Keeping up with the camping theme, this all-in-one utensil is a nifty space saver for your travels when you should be concerned about packing light. The fork, spoon and knife are encased in a bottle opener. $12. kikkerland.com
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Camping multi-use tool
Winter camping is a top holiday activity, and it might be the only chance to feel any weather changes in Big Bear or Mammoth. This light camping tool has 10 functions, including a whistle, LED light, compass and fire starter flint. $20. kikkerland.com
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Weekly planner
Not into the self-help feel of a journal? A straightforward weekly planner might be a better fit. The pad has 54 peel and stick sheets. There is also a monthly version. $12. poketo.com
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Journal
The 52 Lists Project is a journal of weekly lists. There is space to write on your own, but there are also prompts meant to help you self-reflect and take action no matter what is on your to-do list. You can lurk through other people’s lists on Instagram when you follow #52ListsProject. It’s an inanimate career coach/therapist on a budget — good for finding focus during the new year. $16.95. mooreaseal.com
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Bubble masks
Glam Glow’s bubble party set comes with three deep cleansing masks. Give as one stocking stuffer or open the box to distribute among the people on your list. Bubbles activate after the charcoal-infused sheet mask is applied. $19. glamglow.com or sephora.com
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Emergency kit
Pinch Provisions makes a number of small bags and tins filled with essentials. The “States of Emergency” kit carries 14 personal care items such as dental floss, a deodorant towel, stain remover, pain relievers and antacid. The tin is emblazoned with a state-themed design. Only 18 states are available, including California. $16. pinchprovisions.com
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Trendy plants
For the past year, succulents and cactuses filled your Instagram plant porn feeds. The L.A. Garden carries a multitude of these plants, but the mini jarritos (clay pots) are the best stocking-sized option. Your grandma and aunt, who love taking centerpieces home when the party is over, will thank you. Delivery is available for LA and OC areas. $8. thelagarden.com
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Candy and chocolates
Jack’s Wholesale Candy and Toy at 777 S. Central Ave. in Los Angeles can satisfy a sweet tooth and easily fill budget-conscious stockings. You can buy a variety of candy in bulk — from American-created sweets like Butterfinger, Mexican candy like Pelon Pelo Rico to novelty items like the Jelly Belly Bean Boozled spinner game or Harry Potter chocolate frogs. (Pro tip: If you choose to go in store and enjoy buying in bulk, take a short walk over to Santee Alley, where bargain fashion items are sold by the dozen.) $1.50 and up. jackscandy.com
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Mini liquor bottles
Is anyone up for a boozy holiday? There are plenty of liquor stores (both corner and commercial) that sell mini bottles at the front counters — but Ramirez Liquor might carry the widest variety of 50-milliliter liquor bottles. Check out their online catalog filled with two pages of options and customize each stocking according to personal tastes. Their second location, Ramirez Beverage Center at 2765 E. Olympic Blvd., will have most in-store options in stock. $0.99 and up. ramirezliquor.com
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DIY books
Before the magical spaces of Tumblr and Twitterverse were dollar-sign-shaped glints in tech eyes, there were zines — self-published magazines filled with comics, drawings, photography and stories (usually) about subcultures. Photocopied and bound zines are still thriving in independent bookstores. Some are completely offline in Skylight Books and Pop-Hop Books & Print. Other Books, Seite Books, Ooga Booga and Secret Headquarters have a selection of zines available for in-store and online purchase. $2 and up. otherbooksla.com, secretheadquarters.com
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Timeless travel essentials
The nonprofit 826LA helps students ages 6 to 18 develop their creative and expository writing skills. There are flagship “Time Travel Marts” in Echo Park and in Mar Vista: Walk through the aisles and chuckle as you stock up on items such as canned mammoth chunks and D.I.Y. shade (all you have to do is go back in time, plant a walnut, and then time travel to a future where a fully mature shade tree awaits.) All proceeds go toward their free programming. $4.99-$35. timetravelmart.com
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Local pins
David Aguirre designs pins with a distinct LA Latino twist. Locals may recognize street-vending food staples like the fruit cart, LAUSD ephemera like lunch tickets or sports logo mash ups and icons. His designs can be found in California stores or online through Etsy. $5 and up. pinetration818.com
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Tech
Knock, knock
This high-resolution smart doorbell — The Ring Video Doorbell 2 — from Santa Monica’s Ring (which Amazon bought back in March) is the first step to a full home security system that you can control from your phone — and with a new generation of smart security lights and smoke detectors coming out soon, now is a good time to Ring up. $199. shop.ring.com
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Hear it all
No one’s claiming that these Troubadour headphones from LSTN Sound Co. headphones can replace the experience of seeing a show at the classic WeHo venue, but they do offer high-quality sound via Bluetooth 4.1 and unique wood finishes. $179. lstnsound.co
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Ride on
Who needs a Bird scooter when you’ve got the Carbon GT series electric longboard from Evolve Skateboards, one of the best electric skateboards in the world? These carbon fiber beauties, made by the Carlsbad-based Evolve Skateboards, can hit speeds of up to 26 mph and ride for more than 30 miles on one battery charge. Sure, you could get a used Corolla for a similar price, but how gnar is that? $1,959. evolveskateboardsusa.com
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Custom wine subscription
After a quick quiz on your taste profile, this Playa Vista startup serves up a mix of wines from around the world (with a focus on California) algorithmically adjusted to your preferences. Pick four bottles from their affordable range of distributed and in-house vintages, which skew unique and low-intervention, and they’ll show up on your doorstep within days. $13 and up . winc.com
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Home sound system
This Santa Barbara company — Sonos — was the first to offer a high-quality, totally wireless home speaker system, and they’ve continued to be leader in their field. You can start with an Amazon Alexa-enabled Sonos One to get a feel for the product, and then upgrade with the Sub subwoofer, Beam TV soundbar, and the Play series of cabinets as you go. $199. sonos.com
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Get charged
Never get stuck paying for an unwanted Starbucks doughnut just to charge your phone again — the Jackery Bolt 6000 lightweight charger bar has enough juice to charge a large smartphone twice and has built-in Micro-USB and Lightning cables so you can leave your charging cable at home. (If you need to charge a whole laptop on the go, you can upgrade to the Jackery PowerBar, $129). $30. jackery.com
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Utility player
The new generation of affordable laptops that use Google’s Chrome web browser as an operating system have put powerful portable computing within reach of buyers with tighter budgets — and this ASUS Chromebook Flip C302CA is the cream of the current crop, with 4 GB of RAM, a 64-GB solid-state drive, and a 12.5-inch touch screen that can swivel around for use as a tablet. $475. amazon.com
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Bluetooth adapter for your car
Spruce up your commute without messing around with wires with this reliable Bluetooth adapter from iClever — just plug it into your car’s aux-in jack, and your phone can automatically pair with the receiver to stream your favorite playlists. It also has a built-in microphone, so you can take calls hands-free while you’re on the road. And if your car doesn’t have an aux port, try the GoGroove FlexSmart X2, which connects your phone via FM radio. $29.99. $30. amazon.com
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Wireless headphones
Packed with four microphones, snug earbuds, and a five-hour battery life, the Jabra Elite 65t wireless earbuds offer high sound quality and a comfortable fit without any wires to complicate your experience. And if you want to let a bit of the outside world in, just double tap for transparency mode and the headphones will pipe in audio from your surroundings. $170. amazon.com
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Tuck away your tracker
You can get a fuller picture of your daily fitness activity with a feature-packed smartwatch, but for the basics most of us could use — step counting, distance traveled, and calories burned — the Zip does it best — and you don’t need to actually wear it on your wrist. The FitBit social community is also a plus, since we could all use some encouragement to keep up our routines. $60. fitbit.com
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Reigns supreme
Whether it’s for portable computing or to entertain your kid, Apple still reigns supreme in the tablet space for image quality, battery time, and ease of use. The basic model iPad, with 32 GB of storage and wifi connectivity, should be perfect for home or on-the-go office use, and with a $100 keyboard case like the Logitech Slim Folio, it’s practically a full-function laptop (though you might want to just go for our Chromebook recommendation if you’re happy straying from the Apple fold). $330. apple.com
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Reachable, anywhere
Yes, part of the whole point of going off the grid is to be out of touch with the world, but sometimes you want to experience the great outdoors without entirely tapping out (or running the risk of getting lost with no way to call for help). That’s where the Garmin inReach Mini satellite communicator comes in — using the Iridium satellite network, it can connect to your phone to allow for two-way texting literally anywhere on the globe, let you download maps and weather forecasts, and trigger an SOS that’s monitored 24/7. $350. amazon.com
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Portable mini drone
Chinese drone company DJI has become the go-to manufacturer of lightweight and easy-to-use camera drones that let you take your vacation photo game to a whole new level (up to 1.25 miles away, to be precise), $488. We recommend buying it with the “Fly More” upgrade option, which comes with remote control—otherwise you can control it with hand gestures, but that’s a serious limitation on its potential—travel pack, and replacement parts. If you want to experience a drone’s eye view, you can throw in DJI’s goggles for an extra $350 or go all-in on drone photography with DJI’s Mavic 2 Pro, which adds professional lenses and controls for an additional. $1,500. amazon.com
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Virtual reality setup
The best use we’ve come up with for virtual reality (so far) is gaming, and the Oculus Rift + Touch virtual reality setup is the best available if you already have a solid PC gaming rig to plug it into — it doesn’t handle moving around the room as well as some of its competitors, but it has a larger library of games and better controls. If you already have a PlayStation 4, the PlayStation VR 2 ($350) is the way to go. $400. amazon.com
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Travel
For a quick getaway
Parker Clay Montecito Weekender is a premium Ethiopian leather getaway bag with a padded 15-inch laptop sleeve, designed in Santa Barbara and made in Ethiopia. Parker Clay was founded to empower impoverished Ethiopian communities through meaningful trade. Buying the handcrafted bag helps that effort. $498. parkerclay.com
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Lots of options
The Letrav Austin convertible bag is a fit for all adventurers. It easily transforms from a leather messenger bag into a cloth backpack and vice versa. $329. letrav.com
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So fab
The Deep Blue Bag by Mafia is an Yves Béhar-designed, eco-friendly backpack made in California with up-cycled spinnaker and kite sails, repurposed wetsuit/drysuit material and salvaged climbing ropes from Yosemite. It’s so fab that San Francisco's MOMA store sells it. Features include a water resistant wet pocket, waterproof zippers, and a secret stash pocket for keys, wallet, passport and more. $195. mafiabags.com
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Holds it all
Eagle Creek’s Wayfinder Small Waist pack was imagined in Carlsbad and made in China. It sets a tourist’s back free by holding a phone, small camera, etc. $30. eaglecreek.com
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Soothes fatigued travelers
The Detox Market Gift Card can be used online or in stores; it has three stores in L.A. The Detox Market carries eco-friendly, organic products for skin, hair and inner wellness care from head to toe. Its products can safely soothe fatigued travelers. Made-in-the-USA lines include Odacité, Suntegrity and May Lindstrom. $25 and up. thedetoxmarket.com
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Rehydrate the skin
Odacité All-Embracing Serum was created to restore and rehydrate all skin types. (What traveler hasn’t left a long flight feeling dehydrated?) Born in Topanga, Odacité blends result-driven French skincare with California eco-friendliness. Its certified organic products are vegan and locally made in L.A. $95. odacite.com
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Lather up
Lather’s Coconut Treasures Gift Set offers a tuckered-out traveler a tropical, comforting coconut escape with a lip scrub, a body scrub and wash and a creamy body whip all enriched with different forms of coconut. Born in Pasadena, the wellness brand line is made in California. $65. lather.com
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Skin protection
Suntegrity Natural Moisturizing Face Sunscreen & Primer is engineered to rejuvenate and hydrate skin while offering broad spectrum SPF 30 protection against UVA and UVB rays without the concerning chemicals and nano-particles. $45. suntegrityskincare.com
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Sounds on the go
Denon Envaya Mini DSB-150 is a Bluetooth speaker that delivers superb sound wherever your roamer goes: It is highly water and dust resistant. $149. usa.denon.com
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Charge it up
Goal Zero Sherpa 100AC Power Bank is a multi-gadgeted wanderer’s dream because the sleek powerhouse can charge almost anything with its two high-speed USB-C 60W in/out ports, two USB-A (5 volt/2.4 amp) ports, Qi wireless charging and an integrated 100W AC outlet with surge protection. $299.95. goalzero.com
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Steal a few Zzzzzz
The Casper Nap Pillow is a washable, mini version of Casper’s signature pillow. Perfect for helping a road warrior steal a few z’s. Conceived in San Francisco, the pillow comes with a pillowcase and a drawstring bag. $35. casper.com
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Base layer
Ridge Merino Men’s or Women’s Aspect Midweight Merino Wool Long Sleeve Shirt is a super soft, moisture-wicking base layer for active winter fun. Designed in Mammoth Lakes. $69.95. ridgemerino.com
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For your devices
Scottevest Men’s Pack Windbreaker is a device-lover’s dream with 19 pockets to hold everything from a passport to a tablet. Available in five colors. $90. scottevest.com
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Layering on the run
Hylete Women’s Accent II Hooded Jacket is a lightweight polyester spandex blend garment engineered in San Diego. Its power mesh panels regulate body temperature making Accent II great as a layering piece on a run or a chilly flight. Flexion is the equivalent men’s jacket. 84 and up.. hylete.com
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Works with your smartphone
Seirus Heatwave+ Soundtouch Escape Mitt lets winter wanderers go all day without exposing their hands to the cold. Hands stay warm while fingers can be freed to use the phone without removing the mitt. Devised in Poway. $119.99. seirus.com
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Stylish support
Pro Compression Marathon over-the-calf socks offer true graduated medical grade (20-30 mm/Hg) compression, making them ideal for travelers, nurses, athletes or anyone that sits or stands for hours at a time. Conceived in Carlsbad and made in the USA. $50. procompression.com
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Remembering it all
A CanvasPop Gift Card helps explorers turn treasured travel digital images into art that’s produced in the USA. Its frames are handmade in North Carolina. $30 on up. canvaspop.com
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Rehydrate, fast
Liquid I.V. Hydration Multiplier is an electrolyte drink mix that uses a scientific breakthrough technology called Cellular Transport Technology to deliver hydration faster and more efficiently than water can alone. Based in Marina del Rey, Liquid I.V. is made in Duarte. $24.99 for a 16-pack. liquid-iv.com
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TV
Ouija: Stranger Things Edition
Communicate with a Demogorgon, uncover secrets from the Upside Down, or maybe just ask about Season 3 — the possibilities are endless with a "Stranger Things"-themed Ouija board. The Hasbro game board features the Christmas lights wall alphabet from the show. Fair warning: Not for those afraid of things that go bump in the night. $34.87. amazon.com
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Adventure Time: The Official Cookbook
"Adventure Time" may have ended its 10-season run this fall. But Land of Ooo fans can keep the magic alive and their bellies full with chef Jordan Grosser's "Adventure Time: The Official Cookbook," featuring recipes from favorite characters and kingdoms. $25.91. amazon.com
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"Sex and the City and Us"
It's been more than 14 years since Carrie and the girls last shared a cosmo together on HBO, but as author Jennifer Keishin Armstrong argues in "Sex and the City and Us: How Four Single Women Changed the Way We Think, Live and Love," the show has never really left us. Her book traces the origins of the comedy, its groundbreaking portrayals of female friendship, dating and urban life, and its rise to becoming an Emmy-winning global cultural phenomenon. $18.56. amazon.com
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Not so "Insecure"
Are you an Issa, a Molly, a Tiffany or a Kelli? There's no need to choose. If you're a fan of "Insecure," which recently concluded its third season on HBO, you can express your solidarity with the whole ensemble — and more importantly, other fans — with this statement T-shirt. $34.95. shop.hbo.com
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Look, a boat!
The Trump administration has inspired a rise in satirical children’s books, and on the heels of “Last Week Tonight with John Oliver’s” playful tale of bunny equality, “A Day in the Life of Marlon Bundo,” comes “The Late Show With Stephen Colbert’s” contribution, “Whose Boat Is This Boat? Comments That Don’t Help in the Aftermath of a Hurricane.” The picture book is drawn from presidential quotations in response to Hurricane Florence, and 100% of the book’s proceeds go to disaster relief efforts. $9.99. amazon.com
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For the GOT set
Another long winter looms for “Game of Thrones” fans as the final season of HBO’s culture-devouring dragon drama now seems pushed back to mid-2019. So raise a glass to “Valar Morghulis” with the seasonally appropriate Johnnie Walker White Walker ($39.99) — blended from northern Scotland distilleries and intended to be served from the freezer, naturally — or Ommegang’s King in the North, a dark imperial stout that’s the fourth and final installment in the brewer’s Royal Reserve Collection of Westerosi-themed brews ($12.99 for 750 ml bottles, or $24.99 per four-pack). $12.99 and up. Check local liquor stores.
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"Robin Williams: Comic Genius"
Fans of Robin Williams will be head over heels with Time-Life’s DVD set of “Robin Williams: Comic Genius,” an epic collection of the late entertainer’s comedy featuring more then 50 hours of material, including his HBO stand-up specials, never-before-released performances and episodes of “Mork and Mindy.” $199. robinwilliams.com
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N'yuk n'yuk
Every family is bound to have at least one Three Stooges fan, who will go n’yuk n’yuk over all the boys’ Columbia Pictures shorts, in addition to feature films, cartoons, a documentary and much more. We found the newest DVD collection at target.com, but you'll find plenty more to amuse fans at shopknuckleheads.com, at a variety of price points. $40.89. shopknuckleheads.com
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Presidential Tweets
Ever want to have a collection of tweets by President Trump all in one convenient place? Trevor Noah and his staff of Comedy Central’s “The Daily Show” have done all the work for you with “The Donald J. Trump Presidential Twitter Library,” a one-volume collection of memorable missives from the Oval Office. $12.76. amazon.com
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"Yellowstone"
Go back to the days of the Old West — or, rather, go back to the days when you were watching a series about the West, such Paramount TV’s “Yellowstone.” Want more than just the DVD of the Kevin Costner series? Enjoy soundtrack to the series featuring several robust tunes from the acclaimed oater by Whiskey Myers, Ryan Bingham and others. We found the DVD for $23, and the CD for $12. . amazon.com
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No waxing needed
For the person who loves — or needs — the makeovers of “Queer Eye” but doesn’t want to deal with all the cameras and body hair waxing, consider gifting them a 2019 wall calendar. It may not be able to shower the recipient with words of confidence, but it can remind them when the next full moon is expected. $15.89. amazon.com
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Binge-Watching Survival Kit
Have that special someone in your life who can throw back eight episodes of “Friends" or “Game of Thrones” in one sitting? Since you can’t gift them more hours in the day, present them with a Binge-Watching Survival Kit. This one, by Pinch Provisions, includes snack clips, tissues, coasters and — perhaps most crucial — mints. There’s even a guide for sofa yoga for the TV watcher worried about maintaining a svelte couch potato figure. $19.95. barnesandnoble.com
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Video games
Nintendo Labo
The future of video games is … cardboard? So Nintendo’s Labo isn’t a revolution in graphics, but it does make the case that games and interactive entertainment are best when they involve more than a screen, and Nintendo’s three Labo kits have a goofy, do-it-yourself spirit. So make a robot. Or a steering wheel. Or a piano keyboard. With Labo, Nintendo continues its longstanding tradition of staying ahead of its competitors by creating new ways to play. So get to building. $69.99 to $79.99. labo.nintendo.com
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Nintendo Switch Bundle with Pokemon
The most exciting video game console right now is the Nintendo Switch, a versatile — and portable — machine that emphasizes cooperative play and is home to a massively growing independent games library. And this winter, it has Pokémon. The new “Pokémon: Let’s Go, Pikachu!” and “Pokémon: Let’s Go, Eevee!” will combine the friendly role-playing-game aspects of early games in the franchise with some new tricks learned from “Pokémon Go.” If you don’t have a Switch, invest in the Pokémon bundle, which boasts “Pokémon: Let’s Go, Pikachu!,” a Pokémon-themed device and the innovative Poke Ball Plus, a ball-like controller that makes the game more accessible than ever. $399. nintendo.com
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“Marvel's Spider-Man”
Sony’s PlayStation 4 is home to many an exclusive single-player adventure, including the acclaimed “God of War” and the terrific “Uncharted 4.” This year’s “Marvel's Spider-Man” from local studio Insomniac Games adds to the console’s must-have library. It’s a bright, thoughtful game in which a slightly older Peter Parker must juggle being a hero with having a day job. Bonus: The game in some parts allows you to play as Mary Jane Watson, and here’s hoping she someday gets her own game. $59.99 to $149.99. playstation.com
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“Red Dead Redemption 2”
Here’s the problem for the video game player on your list: Chances are good this person will have “Red Dead Redemption 2” long before any seasonal gift-giving occurs. But if not, this Western set in 1899 America should be considered a must have for Xbox One and PlayStation 4 owners. One doesn’t even have feel passionately about the outlaw story at the heart of the title — arguably no studio is better at anything-goes world-building than Rockstar Games. $59.99 to $99.99. rockstargames.com
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Avengers Hero Inventor Kit
There’s a lot more to Iron Man than simply flying around battling evil forces. Not shown in the films is all the hard work that goes into building such technologically-enhanced superhero suits. The Avengers Hero Inventor Kit aims to not only create excitement around the Marvel characters but also to inspire little ones to experiment with codes and circuit building. Yes, it would be a blast to grow up to become Captain Marvel, but there’s probably more of a career in programming. $149.99. littlebits.com
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“Shadow of the Tomb Raider”
The third game in the rebooted “Tomb Raider” franchise, “Shadow of the Tomb Raider” asks big questions. At its core, the game questions the motives of its hero Lara Croft, making its archeological adventures borderline existential ones. The Mexico setting is gorgeous, however, and though Croft may prove to be a flawed hero, credit Square Enix for probing deep into her motivations. $59.99. square-enix-games.com
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“Super Mario Party”
When Nintendo makes a party game, they are titles that can destroy friendships as quickly as they can bring people together — at least until the next round starts. There’s a bit of luck involved in the mini-games in “Super Mario Party,” but they’re all ridiculous and will have everyone flailing — and screaming — at the screen. $59.99. nintendo.com
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Two Bit Circus
It’s free to enter to this downtown Los Angeles gaming center, but load up a game card and treat a friend — or a family — to a night out. Consider it the modern arcade, one that merges virtual reality with digital midway games and a theme park-inspired passion for world building. Pro-tip: Make a reservation in advance for “Space Squad in Space,” a so-called story room that has you and up to five friends (or new friends) navigating a starship. Prices for games vary.. twobitcircus.com
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Wellness junkies
Eco-friendly shades
Cali Life’s polarized UV400 sunglasses are quintessentially Californian, with a surf vibe and style names from cities and attractions across the Golden State such as the Huntington Beach, Palm Springs and Carpinteria. But it’s the details that make the frames from this San Diego company unique. All are made from plant-based materials, including vegetable-based acetate and woods such as oak, ebony and walnut, many with special engraved designs. Replacement parts are available to help you hold onto them longer. $85 and up. calilifeco.com
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Wireless headphones that go the distance
JLab’s Epic Air Elite headphones have a six-hour battery life in the earbuds and 32 hours in their charging case, so you won’t run out of tunes when you’re on the run. The over-the-ear style from this Carlsbad brand keeps them locked in place and the sound is crisp and clear, while still allowing pass-through ambient noise to keep you safe on the road. $149.99. jlabaudio.com
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Chic yoga pants
These rocker chic leggings from LA-based Carbon38 are equally at home in downward dog or on a post-workout lunch date with a cozy sweater. With a high-rise to hold you in, and pintuck moto-inspired stitching and a leather-like varnish, they’re both practical and stylish. $128. carbon38.com
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Wetsuit that wows
The words "wetsuit" and "style" aren’t often in the same sentence, but this eye-catching wetsuit from Roxy in Huntington Beach really will make waves with its pop-printed paneling on the torso and contrasting arm cuff. Yet for all its figure-flattering glam, this 3/2 mm fleece-lined suit still performs when water temps dip into the high 50s and 60s, reducing water entry and providing warmth for those surf sessions. $249.99. roxy.com
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Moon shoes
Vans’ new Space Voyager collection pays tribute to 60 years of space exploration, with a jumpsuit orange-colored Old Skool NASA skate shoe — inspired by the features and textures of original space gear. Available in November. $85. vans.com
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Elegant hydration
Sure, some might buy VitaJuwel’s Gem-Water bottles for the purported healing powers of the assorted crystals at their base, but for most, these minimalist glass bottles are like the jewelry of the wellness world; a beautiful encouragement to drink water all day. Just add one of the LA company’s peekaboo silicon covers if you’re taking it to the gym. $78 and up. gem-water.com
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No bulk protection from the elements
Patagonia’s Micro Puff insulated Jacket can see you through rain or snow without bulking up your bag. The down-like insulation stays warm even when the jacket’s wet, and it can be compressed to stow into its own zippered pocket. It’s a lot of warmth for little weight. $249. patagonia.com
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Latest and greatest Apple watch
For those who have held off on getting the Apple Watch to track their health, the good news is that this year’s Series 4 is a big step up from the previous generation, with a processor that’s twice as fast, a longer battery life, and a speaker that’s 50% louder so you can better take calls outside. It has a larger face, making it easier to use those apps, and a thinner case. And the accelerometer and gyroscope have been improved allowing it to detect hard falls and an electrical heart rate sensor that can take an electrocardiogram (ECG) and send a PDF to your doctor. $399 and up. apple.com
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Five-star gym shorts
Forget the baggy, saggy men’s shorts he’s used to working out in. These Flexion shorts by Solana Beach-based Hylete get rave reviews for their angular paneling and contrast stretch zones, which provides a more fitted look without sacrificing mobility. They have a two-way drawstring, w affled interior for breathability and zippered pockets to keep keys or a phone secure during that lift session. $64. hylete.com
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Marshmallow hoodie
Beyond Yoga’s fleece Sedona hoodie is probably the softest layer she’ll ever own. Perfect for after the studio or chilly winter mornings, it’s warm but not bulky with a cropped length and neckline detail to give it style. While nude and blush leggings are in, this toast-colored topper from the Culver City yoga brand pairs well with all those black yoga pants she already owns. $120. beyondyoga.com
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The SUP of their dreams...
Share calm mornings on the water with this versatile board from San Diego-based Isle Surf & SUP, which will handle everything from flat water to open ocean. Wide and thick to improve its glide through the water, this board has a front bungee to secure your gear and a mount for your GoPro. $945. islesurfandsup.com
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Light-as-air jacket
Fun fact: Did you know women’s’ extremities run 3 degrees colder than men’s? This stretchy Run Free jacket from San Francisco-based Athleta moves with you during that cold first mile. With mesh inserts under the arms and thumbholes, it performs, but the cinched waist keeps it from looking too bulky. $148. athleta.com
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Shoes for night running
These maximalist shoes may feel like a big comfy cloud, but they’re surprisingly lightweight and, despite the extra shock absorbing, won’t affect your performance. Best of all, the all-black Hoka One One Mach Fly At Night lets you be seen by traffic with black reflective logos, a reflective heel tab and midsole. $150. hokaoneone.com
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Superfood skin care
She may drink cold-pressed kale and spinach, but does she use it in her skin care? The Superfood Starter Kit from L.A.-based natural skin care company Youth to The People harnesses the antioxidant-rich extracts of these vegetables and green tea in a gel cleanser, lightweight serum with hyaluronic acid and moisturizer that hydrate without heaviness. $126. youthtothepeople.com
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Try-before-you-commit workouts
Studio classes are expensive, and there’s nothing worse than buying a package to a place you haven’t decided about. Give the gift of sampling the broad array of studio classes that L.A. has to offer — from boxing to boot camp to barre — with a membership gift card to Class Pass, which allows you to read reviews and book a set number of classes a month online or via app. $45-$125 per month for 25 to 75 credits to be used for 2-13 classes. $45 and up per month. classpass.com
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Massage at your door
Rather than give your friend something he or she might have to return, give them the experience of calm during the stressful holidays. Zeel, one of the pioneers of massage on demand, sells gift cards so your friends and family can recover after that marathon, or get a signature Sleep massage right before they nod off. You decide gift card. zeel.com
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At-home indoor-cycling club
Pricey, yes. But Peloton’s at-home, indoor cycling bike has a fanatical following, owing in large part to the quality of its cycling and fitness content available to stream live and on-demand on the bike’s touchscreen display. It plays to the competitor in all of us, with its leaderboard rankings and real-time stats. And unlike its recently released treadmill, the bike is compact enough to fit in smaller spaces. $2,245 for the basic bike, plus $39 each month for the membership. onepeloton.com
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Additional credits
Edited by Rene Lynch. Design and development by Sean Greene. Photo editing by Calvin Alagot. Copy edited by Steve Elders. Animation by Swetha Kannan.
Contributors: Chris Barton, Geoff Berkshire, Meredith Blake, Greg Braxton, Andrea Chang, Noelle Carter, Vera Castaneda, Michael Darling, Kavita Daswani, Sam Dean, Makeda Easter, Melinda Fulmer, Terry Gardner, Julie Giuffrida, Jenn Harris, Carolyn Kellogg, Jeanette Marantos, Todd Martens, Jessica Ritz, Ingrid Schmidt, Alice Short, Kenneth Turan, Yvonne Villarreal.