With a little help from local design guru Nathan Turner and a healthy amount of window-shopping, we’ve prepared a WEHOville guide to holiday gifts for Mom, Dad, kids, friends, girlfriends and boyfriends.
Turner, who currently stars on Bravo’s “Million Dollar Decorators,” is known for his love of antiques and a look that’s genuinely Californian. His shop, on Almont Drive at Santa Monica Boulevard, combines his passions for design, food and travel. So we figured there was no one better to give us the skinny on how and where to shop this holiday season in West Hollywood.
The key to great shopping is being a great detective all year-round, Turner said. “I start making mental notes in advance.”
Here, with his guiding hand, is our 2012 shopping guide:
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Gifts for Mom
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Shoestring budget (Under $25)
Gourmet macaroons from Plaisir for under $25
Nothing says love like gourmet baking. These delicious macaroons come in a variety of flavors, including our favorite, Chocolate Mint Wonderland. Mom will be more than pleased when she opens the box.
Plaisir Catering Café, open daily 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m., 8613 Santa Monica Blvd., at Westbourne, plaisirla.blogspot.com
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Mid-range ($25 to $50)
Designer gifts from Nathan Turner from $25-$50
Mom loves to decorate, but sometimes she’s short on time. Make it easy for her to get inspired with this “Nathan Turner’s American Style”book ($40) and some fashionable items from his Melrose Avenue shop. Big Sur Country Soaps go for $10 each and these Moroccan tea glasses are $5 each. Turner suggests adding tea lights or flowers to the Moroccan glasses. If you buy Turner’s book from his shop, you’ll get a signed copy. If you buy it when he’s in, he’ll sign it in person.
Nathan Turner, open hours vary, 636 North Almont Dr., at Santa Monica, nathanturner.com
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Deeper pockets ($50 to $100)
$100 gift certificate from Ole Henriksen Spa
This warm spa on Sunset Blvd. offers the best of services to help pamper Mom the way she deserves to be pampered. The gift certificate is just a jumping off point to nail care, facials, body care and even eyelash extensions. The only problem you’ll have with this gift is getting Mom out of the spa.
Ole Henriksen Spa, open Monday 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Tuesday-Saturday 8 a.m.-8 p.m., Sunday 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., 8622 West Sunset Blvd., at Sunset Plaza, olehenriksen.com
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Call me Daddy Warbucks ($100+)
Charleston Necklace from Roseark from $2,210-$2,390
You don’t have to ask, we already did. Mom loves jewelry. Try something different and wild this year with a trip to Roseark. This Charleston Necklace caught our eye, along with several other gems. Make no mistake; jewelry is win-win.
Roseark, open Monday-Friday 10 a.m.-5 p.m., 111 North Crescent Heights Blvd., at Norton, roseark.com
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Gifts for Dad
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Shoestring budget (Under $25)
$25 gift certificate from Bolt Barbers Monkey House Barber Shop
Who doesn’t like a clean shave or a new hairdo? Dad wants to look good, too. A gift certificate to Bolt Barbers Monkey House Barber Shop (just outside of West Hollywood) gives dear old Dad lots of choices. Personal cuts are $25, beard trims are $12, boot shines are $12 and “Addicted to pomade” hair products are $16. Are you thinking George Clooney from “O Brother, Where Art Thou?” We are.
Bolt Barbers Monkey House Barber Shop, open Monday-Wednesday 10 a.m.-9 p.m., Thursday-Saturday 9 a.m.-2 a.m., Sundays 11 a.m.-5 p.m., 8209 Melrose Ave., at La Jolla, boltbarbers.com
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Mid-range ($25 to $50)
$50 gift certificate from Koontz Hardware
Dads don’t always have to fix things, but they like to feel handy. That’s why a trip to Koontz Hardware is in order. A $50 gift certificate to this classic hardware store will make any man happy. We found tools, house wares and even gourmet cookware. The Koontz experts say this year, the Huntsman Swiss Army Knife for $39 (includes large and small blade, screwdriver, wire stripper and our favorite, the cork screw!) or the Leatherman Freestyle Multitool for $46.99 (induces pliers, serrated knife, wire cutters and more) or the handy Black and Decker Drill with carrying case for $39 are great choices if you want to walk out gift in hand.
Koontz Hardware Store, open Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-7 p.m., Saturday 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m.-5 p.m., 8914 Santa Monica Blvd., at Hilldale, koontz.com
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Deeper pockets ($50 to $100)
10-class card for $100 from Hollywood Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Every man wants to be able to whoop someone’s booty now and again, and what better way to prepare for the fight that might never happen than to take Brazilian Jiu Jitsu classes? This West Hollywood work out center offers a 10-class card for $100. With that, Dad can sample jiu jitsu as well as kickboxing, judo and Crossfit training, too.
Hollywood Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, open depending on class schedule, 1106 North La Cienega Blvd., Ste. 103, at La Jolla, hollywoodbjj.com
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Call me Daddy Warbucks ($100+)
LOMO LC-Wide camera $389
Anyone can be a photographer, and so can Dad. With the latest in technology from LOMO, this new model offers an ultra wide-angle lens, perfect for shooting Los Angeles landscapes. The art of lomography comes with a state of mind. Include in your present a trip to the West Hollywood Lomography Gallery Store, so Dad can get inspired about what he wants to shoot with his new toy.
Lomography Gallery Store LA, hours Monday-Saturday 10:30 a.m.-9 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m.-7 p.m., 7998 Santa Monica Blvd., at Laurel, lomography.com
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Gifts for Babies & Kids
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Shoestring budget (Under $25)
Infant Hoodie from American Apparel $18
There’s no better way to celebrate the holidays than buying locally and from the U.S.A. Babies can keep it real in this American-made hoodie from American Apparel. It comes in red, white, navy and dark gray.
American Apparel, open Monday-Saturday 11 a.m.-9 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m.-8 p.m., 802 N. San Vicente Blvd., at Santa Monica, americanapparel.net
Star Wars: How to Speak Like a Wookie $16.95
If you’ve got an older kid on you hands who would rather have fun than keep warm, consider this guide to talking like your favorite walking carpet, our old buddy Chewy. This is also appropriate for adult kids, too.
Kitson, open Monday-Friday 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m.-8 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m.-7 p.m., 8590 Melrose Ave., at Westbourne, shopkitson.com
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Mid-range ($25 to $50)
Aqua Owl Frame for $40
Personalize a gift by grabbing your favorite kid’s photo and popping it in this adorable owl frame designed by Dwell Studios. It makes a great memory for the holiday and suits boys and girls.
Bel Bambini, open Monday-Saturday 10 a.m.-7 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m.-5 p.m., 464 North Robertson Blvd., at Rangely, bel-bambini.com
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Deeper pockets ($50 to $100)
Wall Decals and Prints, under $60
The Transportation Wall Decal from Petit Tresor brightens any toddler room with its zoom zoom truck and car prints. And, if you have a little girl on your list, try the Summer Garden Wall Decal ($15) for a flurry of birds paired with a Paris print ($15). Adorbs!
Petit Tresor, open daily 10 a.m.-6 p.m., 501 N. Robertson Blvd., south of Melrose, petittresor.com
The Toysmith Spy Gear Ultimate Spy Mission Case for $95
With the power of Bond this year, there’s no telling what trickle down effect that has on little ones. The Toysmith Spy Gear Ultimate Spy Mission Case includes nightscope, evidence kit and spy watch, along with cool carrying case. Great for little 007s and future Bond Girls, too.
Kitson, open Monday-Friday 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m.-8 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m.-7 p.m., 8590 Melrose Ave., at Westborne, shopkitson.com
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Call me Daddy Warbucks ($100+)
Fresco Chrome-Black High Chair for $450
Baby will feel like royalty in this Fresco Chrome-Black High Chair fit for a king.
Bel Bambini, open Monday-Saturday 10 a.m.-7 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m.-5 p.m., 464 North Robertson Blvd., at Rangely, bel-bambini.com
Notte Fatata Castle Bed – pricing varies
This luxurious castle bed, perfect for a little prince or princess, transforms any ordinary bedroom into a royal palace.
Petit Tresor, open daily 10a-6p, 501 N. Robertson Blvd., south of Melrose, 90048, petittresor.com
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Gifts for Friends
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Shoestring budget (Under $25)
$25 gift certificate to Sound Check Hollywood
What better way to bond than over the nostalgia music on vinyl? Sound Check Hollywood is open for night owls and caters to all things rock n’ roll in L.A. Go back to the golden years, a little like Tom Cruise in “Rock of Ages,” and get a taste of what the Strip was like in the 80s. Alice Cooper, Anthrax, AC/DC, shall we say more … ?
Sound Check Hollywood, open Monday-Thursday 5 p.m.-12 a.m., Friday 5 p.m.-2 a.m. and Sunday 5 p.m.-12 a.m., 8872 Sunset Blvd., at Larrabee, soundcheckhollywood.com
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Mid-range ($25 to $50)
Booze from John and Pete’s Fine Wines & Spirits, up to $50
There’s no better gift than a bottle of booze at the holidays, says John and Pete’s co-owner Lou Pene. “We usually recommend bringing vodka, if you don’t know what someone drinks.” He suggests Grey Goose Vodka in the new Cherry Noir flavor for $29.99, Ciroc Peach Vodka for $33.99 or if you like bubbly, Laurent-Perrier Brut for $39.99. Bottoms up!
John and Pete’s Fine Wines & Spirits, open Monday-Saturday 8:30 a.m.-10 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m.-7 p.m., 621 N. La Cienega Blvd., at Melrose, johnandpetes.com
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Deeper pockets ($50 to $100)
Bike and Hikes Legendary Home Bike Tour for $68
This West Hollywood touring company will set you up with a bike for the day and then take you on a guided tour of the most famous L.A. homes. It’s great exercise for friends and you’ll bond while learning about the rich history of Los Angeles.
Bikes and Hikes L.A., open depending on tour times, 8743 Santa Monica Blvd., at Hancock,bikesandhikesla.com
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Call me Daddy Warbucks ($100+)
Sunday supper for two plus book at Lucques for $127.95
Lucques is a rustic, quaint European fusion restaurant located on Melrose Ave. At its Sunday Suppers you can taste what the chef deems the most delicious-of-the-day cuisine. For just more than $100, you can reserve a table for two and receive a copy of the cookbook “Sunday Suppers at Lucques.” This treat will turn any buddy into a BFF with just one bite.
Lucques, open for lunch Tuesday-Saturday 12 p.m.-2:30 p.m. and for dinner Monday-Thursday 6 p.m.-10 p.m., Friday-Saturday 6 p.m.-10:30 p.m. and Sunday Supper 5 p.m.-10 p.m., 8474 Melrose Ave., at La Cienega,lucques.com
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Gifts for Your Boyfriend
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Shoestring budget (Under $25)
$25 late night comedy tickets from Largo at the Coronet
This is a great activity that you and your man can enjoy together, late night tickets to a comedy show at Largo. See the pros like Sarah Silverman, Russell Brand, Garry Shandling and Louis C.K. practice their schtick live for just $25. Have some laughs and make a date out of it at Largo (just south of WeHo).
Largo at the Coronet, doors open at 7:30 p.m., shows start at 9 p.m., 366 North La Cienega Blvd., at Oakwood, largo-la.com
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Mid-range ($25 to $50)
$25-$50 gift certificate for beers at The Surly Goat
If your beau is a beer connoisseur, The Surly Goat must be on your list. Their tap selections rotate with the season, and it can be fun to pop in and try what’s on the list. Friendly barstaff will guide you through the top choices. Ales, lagers and wheat beers are just a few on the long list.
The Surly Goat, open Monday-Friday 6p-last call and Saturday-Sunday 1p-last call, Happy Hour is Monday-Friday 6p-8p and Saturday-Sunday 1p-3p, 7929 Santa Monica Blvd., at Hayworth.
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Deeper pockets ($50 to $100)
$100 gift certificate to LASC
When your man is ready to relax and look cool, there’s no better place to get classic sweats, T-shirts and even a few new pairs of new drawers than LASC. Splurge this holiday season with a $100 gift certificate for a whole new outfit perfect for lazy weekends and lounging by the pool.
LASC, open daily 10 a.m.-9 p.m., 8592 Santa Monica Blvd., west of La Cienega, shoplasc.com
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Just call me Daddy Warbucks ($100+)
Paul Smith accessories from $100+
What better way to style your man than with the chic offerings of Paul Smith? There are so many selections here; we named just a few of our favorites. The shark tooth iPhone case ($125) will turn heads along with the Five Eyes Chronograph Watch ($660). Don’t forget the whimsical John Lennon Glasses Cufflinks ($145) that show your man has good looks and a sense of humor, too.
Paul Smith, open Monday-Saturday 11 a.m.-7 p.m. and Sunday 12 p.m.-6 p.m., 8221 Melrose Ave., at Doheny, paulsmith.co.uk/us-en/shop
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Gifts for Your Girlfriend
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Shoestring budget (Under $25)
Brunch at Salt’s Cure for under $25
There’s nothing better than sharing a lazy brunch with your lovely lady. Salt’s Cure is simply divine. From its oatmeal griddle cakes ($9) to its brown butter blueberry tart ($4), we’d like to order one of everything, including a glass of mimosa for $9 and a blue cheese burger and fries for $15. Yum.
Salt’s Cure, open for brunch Saturday-Sunday 11a-3p, 7494 Santa Monica Blvd., at Vista, saltscure.com
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Mid-range ($25 to $50)
$25-$50 Flowers from Lily Lodge
These fresh cut flowers are hand sorted for you by the excellent staff at Lily Lodge. They have a range of options, going from $1-day old roses to beautiful vases to display your gift.
Lily Lodge, open Monday 11a-5p, Tuesday, Friday-Saturday 11a-6p, Wednesday-Thursday 10a-6p, 644 North Robertson Blvd., north of Melrose, lilylodge.com
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Deeper pockets ($50 to $100)
Fred Segal jewelry under $100
Never fear, not everything in the store is more than $500. We found Sheila Fajl 18k gold-plated drop earrings for $60 and these Bettina Duncan initial pendants to make it personal with your gal’s initials, or maybe yours … You can also browse the sweet-smelling New Beauty apothecary products for under $100, too.
Fred Segal World Avenue, open 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Sundays from noon to 6 p.m. 8118 Melrose Ave., at Crescent Heights, fredsegal.com
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Call me Daddy Warbucks ($100+)
Girard tattoo ring from Roseark from $500-$565
Just because you’re not official in the eyes of society, doesn’t mean you can’t buy her a ring, and a cool, funky one at that. We fell in love with these tattoo rings at Roseark and we know your girl will, too.
Roseark, open Monday-Friday 10 a.m.-5 p.m., 1111 North Crescent Heights Blvd., at Santa Monica, roseark.com
West Hollywood shopping guru Mary Hunt contributed to this report.
