One of my greatest joys as a designer is connecting with other founders who pour their hearts into what they create. Small businesses have this magic: a certain soulfulness, a story behind every detail, a human touch you just feel when you bring their pieces into your life. These are the brands I return to again and again - for gifting, for everyday living, for inspiration, and for the simple pleasure of supporting people who are building beautiful things from scratch.
Left on Friday: Nothing is more flattering than a Left On Friday suit. They’re engineered for movement - i.e. swimming, chasing kids on the beach, surfing. They’re game-changers. Trust. The unofficial bathing suit of every woman I know. Extra points if you mix and match the colors.
Iron Sand Malibu: Handmade by a dear friend I've known since my UCLA days, these knives are the best there is. Dane is a former executive chef who pours so much thought and attention into every detail of these knives. Hand-forged in his home studio in Malibu, they have become my go-to gift when I want to treat someone to something truly premium. Yes, Chef!
Coniglio Palm Beach: Coniglio brings the best of Palm Beach whimsy - bright colors, cheerful prints, and a breezy energy that instantly puts you in a good mood. Everything they make feels like a vacation, whether it’s a dress, a set, or a sunny accessory. They’re joyful, wearable, and impossible not to love. Also obsessed with the family-style business model and their commitment to free-size clothing.
Block Shop Textiles: Block-printed and dyed by hand in the traditional way, Block Shop's work celebrates color, geometry, and tradition in the most joyful way. I love how their designs can transform a room or outfit with just a pop of pattern. It helps that the company is helmed by the coolest cool girls you ever did meet (who are also sisters). Bonus points to me for using their collab with Fireclay Tile in the AGJ studio.
Leahlani Skincare: Discovered on one of my girl's surf trips to Hanalei at Kauai Juice Co, Leahlani is one of my longtime skincare loves. Crafted on Kauai with island botanicals, the products are lush, sensory, and instantly grounding. The Bless Beauty Balm is a must-have!
DÔEN: DÔEN's silhouettes are feminine, nostalgic, and deeply wearable - the kind of pieces you reach for when you want to feel beautiful with zero effort. Beyond the clothes, I adore their commitment to ethical production and supporting women-run factories. It’s a brand rooted in community, creativity, and care. Again. Founded by cool-girl sisters.
Snail Bar, Oakland: Snail Bar is one of my favorite local gems in Oakland, California. Part wine bar, part neighborhood hang, it has this electric mix of incredible natural wines, insanely good small plates, and a warmly chaotic, everyone-is-welcome vibe. I've celebrated my 40th bday party here, AGJ holiday parties, and just random nights out. A must visit if you're ever in town!
Sisstr Wetsuits: A brand founded by and for women surfers, Sisstr just gets it. Best springsuits in the game that won't ride up when you wear them that also come in super flattering silhouettes and cutie prints. I love their focus on empowering women to feel strong, confident, and at home in the ocean. Whether you’re paddling out at sunrise or just dreaming of your next surf trip, their gear is the real deal.
Brightland: Brightland's California-grown olive oils and vinegars are vibrant, flavorful, and thoughtfully sourced. I always keep a bottle on my counter not just for cooking, but because they’re so gorgeous. It’s one of my favorite hostess gifts, hands down. Fave snack alert - hard-boiled egg, a drizzle of basil olive oil, a pinch of Maldon salt. Because isn't everyone telling us all we need more protein?
Free & Easy: Free & Easy has mastered the ultimate carefree, sun-washed LA aesthetic. My husband Alex lives in their tees and I can always be seen rocking one of their snapbacks. Founded by my dear friend Rachel Pally's (herself a former badass clothing designer) husband Kevin, it's a family affair. We love that (as seen here with a LOF one piece).
Heather Taylor Home: Heather has an unparalleled way of making the everyday feel elevated. Her hand-woven table linens, pillows, and blankets strike that perfect balance between timeless and cozy. I love how her textiles instantly warm up a room and make even a weekday dinner feel like a celebration. She designs pieces meant to be lived with and loved for years. The exclusive source for all my kitchen linens. Also we've been friends for years (her daughter and my son were born a few days apart and it's super cutie).
