Women-Owned Businesses in Long Beach’s East Village

The East Village Arts District in Downtown Long Beach has fostered a tight-knit community of women-owned businesses. These independent shops and eateries contribute to the neighborhood’s authentically creative vibe as owners network with each other to create events and help build a community of women entrepreneurs.

ANNEISE

Anneise (440 E 1st St) is a boutique offering all the essentials for a capsule wardrobe, including knit and denim basics, utilitarian-yet-chic vegan leather bags, and a wide variety of sunglasses, earrings and delicate necklaces that go with everything. Owner Kimberly Latham founded the business in 2012 and shares her space with artisanal soap company Saffria Sage Soap.

MAKE COLLECTIVES

Kat Engel started MAKE Collectives (430 E 1st St) with her husband Matt after they bought a home in Long Beach and their interest in decorating led to restoring vintage furniture. As they collected treasures, they joined forces with Kat’s sister Desiree to open a store that would house the business as well as Kat and Desiree’s vintage womenswear venture, La Femme Vintage. The joint lifestyle shop offers clothing, housewares, vintage vinyl, jewelry, plants, and other delightful goods.

RECIRCLE HOME

Known for their eye-catching window display of Himalayan salt lamps lined up on custom triangular wooden shelving, ReCircle Home (501 E Broadway) is an independent shop selling crystals, home decor, and magical goods. Christine Parsley owns ReCircle Home with her partner Darian, who constructs the shelving units and other products available at ReCircle in their home workshop. They regularly host night markets and workshops for making wreaths and flower crowns.

About the Author

Claire Atkinson

Claire Atkinson is a Southern California native who has lived in Long Beach for over 20 years. She spends her free time visiting local parks, farmers markets, and museums, and loves learning about Long Beach history and culture.