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Posts Tagged ‘orange county’

Shop Unique, Support Local: 15 Must-Visit Small Businesses in Costa Mesa

Posted on November 20, 2023 | 12:19pm

It’s …TIMEEE! Small Business Saturday is coming up on November 25th and you don’t have to look very far to find unique small shops in Costa Mesa. We’ve rounded up a list of 15 independently owned business you’ll want to support this holiday season.

1. Mellowist

You can take home a piece of living art when you shop at Mellowist on Randolph Street! Owners Jessica and DJ have carefully curated a unique selection of plants that are beautiful paired with locally crafted pottery.

2. SISU

If you need a gift for someone who loves exploring the outdoors, you have to check out SISU at the SOCO & The OC Mix. This sibling owned shop carries camping gear and home goods from brands you won’t be able to find anywhere else!

3. Lovely Curated Things

– photo by Lovely Curated Things

Female-owned women’s clothing boutique, Lovely Curated Things has a great selection of trendy and fashionable items. Score on unique vintage pieces, stylish boho clothes, and workwear staples without breaking your bank.

4. Work in Progress

– photo by @koralanne IG

If you love coffee and wine, make sure to visit Work in Progress at The CAMP. The relaxing environment and aesthetic décor make it the perfect spot for a midday caffeine or vino fix. And for those unexpected gifting situations, they offer bottled wine and a fun range of greeting cards.

5. Inspired Art Wine 

– photo by Inspired Art Wine

If you are looking for a fun group night out or memorable date night, we recommend booking a class at Inspired Art WineTake a step-by-step painting class while sipping on your favorite glass of wine! This relaxed space is a great way to tap into your inner artist and take a break from the holiday hustle and bustle.

6. Landers Supply House 

Landers Supply House is a must-visit unique hidden gem for shopping during the holidays. Their impressive range of vintage denim, jackets, jewelry, and western apparel is the perfect place to find a gift for someone who appreciates a unique, timeless piece.

7. Hadley & Ren Floral Co.

– photo by @phoebe_eats IG

Elevate your décor game this season with an everlasting floral bouquet from Hadley & Ren Floral Co. Their stunning collection of thoughtfully curated dried flowers are perfect for adding a unique, sophisticated touch to your holiday.

8. NEAT

– photo by NEAT

Nestled in the heart of a local neighborhood, NEAT is a top choice for anyone looking for freshly brewed coffee and a warm welcoming vibe. If you need stocking stuffers, they have coffee bags from around the world, available for purchase!

9. Pürre Boutique

– photo by Pürre Boutique

Pürre Boutique is dedicated to offering organic, sustainable products, from natural apothecary items to timeless home goods and jewelry. Whether you’re treating yourself or looking for a thoughtful gift, they’ve got you covered.

10. Costa Mesa Ceramics Studio

– photo by @strelitzia_photo IG

Book a wheel-throwing class at Costa Mesa Ceramics Studio, where you can mold and shape clay into unique pottery pieces. Not much of an artist? Don’t worry, they have a lovely selection of handcrafted dinnerware and vases ready for purchase!

11. Fleur De Lys

– photo by Fleur De Lys

Started by two friends who envisioned a workplace where their dogs could tag along, Fleur De Lys has become one of Costa Mesa’s most popular shops! They have everything from beautiful stationery and home décor to well-appointed kitchenware. It’s almost impossible to walk out empty handed.

12. Fill Up Butter Cup 

– photo by Fill Up Butter Cup

Looking to shop more sustainably this holiday season? Fill Up Butter Cup is your one stop shop for home and body essentials that are biodegradable, compostable or can be easily recycled!

 13. Hola Adios Coffee

– photo by Hola Adios

Hola Adios Coffee is no ordinary coffee shop, it is inspired by the intrepid journeys of their green buyers, who spend weeks visiting coffee farmers across North, Central, and South America! They even offer a variety of artisan made products like blankets, baskets, and bags.

14. Period Correct

– photo by Period Correct

If someone on your list a self-described “car guy,” you can’t miss Period Correct. Their high-quality gear is influenced by racing, architecture, watches, and more. It’s all about premium materials, unique style, and exclusive collabs.

15. Rococo Boutique

Spoil the women in your life at Rococo Boutique. They offer a curated selection of high-quality clothing, jewelry, accessories and home goods.


Ready to shop small in Costa Mesa? Be sure to tag us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Threads. Don’t forget to use #ShopSmall and #ShopLocalCM!

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Posted in Shopping

Fall into Fun: Costa Mesa’s Ultimate Weekend Guide

Posted on November 8, 2023 | 4:53pm

Welcome, weekend wanderers! Whether you’re a Southern California local or a jet setter extending a business trip, Costa Mesa has a cornucopia of fall delights waiting just for you. From sizzling dining experiences to electrifying performances, this vibrant city has everything you need to make this fall one for the books.

Dining Delights

Costa Mesa’s culinary scene is a feast for the senses, and Thanksgiving is no exception. Gather your friends at the iconic Mastro’s Steakhouse for a mouthwatering holiday meal with a touch of sophistication. If you’re craving a more laid-back atmosphere, Playa Mesa Kitchen offers a modern twist on traditional Mexican dishes, perfect for a festive celebration with a SoCal flair. Looking to skip the cooking on “Turkey Day” and have someone else do all the heavy lifting? Then, make a reservation at Silver Trumpet for a Thanksgiving brunch buffet or at La Chateau Bistro for a mouthwatering holiday meal.

Cozy Coffee

Kickstart your weekend with a caffeine fix at Costa Mesa’s trendiest coffee shops. Nook Coffee is a local gem known for its artisanal brews and cozy ambiance—a great spot to recharge before hitting the town. Don’t miss out on the seasonal specials at Portola Coffee Lab, where the baristas are true coffee artisans, turning your cup of joe into a masterpiece.

Performing Arts Extravaganza

For those seeking a dose of culture and entertainment, Costa Mesa’s performing arts scene is a treasure trove. Segerstrom Center for the Arts hosts captivating performances, from Broadway shows to world-class concerts. Check out their schedule for November—it’s bound to be a spectacular experience that’ll leave you in awe. Orange County Art Museum (OCMA) celebrates its one-year anniversary with an array of events and free admission.

Retail Therapy

-photo by SOCO

Indulge your shopping cravings in Costa Mesa’s eclectic retail landscape. South Coast Plaza, a shopper’s ultimate paradise, boasts an array of high-end brands and boutique shops. Take advantage of Thanksgiving weekend sales and treat yourself to some well-deserved retail therapy. If you’re into unique finds, explore the nearby SOCO and The OC Mix, where local artisans showcase their crafts in a hip, industrial setting.

Outdoor Adventure

-photo by @Farmersmarkoc

Burn off those fall-time calories with some outdoor fun in Costa Mesa’s beautiful parks. Grab a bike and explore the scenic trails at Fairview Park, or enjoy a leisurely stroll through the landscape and pond of TeWinkle Park. Or skate your way into the sunset at the Costa Mesa Skate Park.

Nightlife Excitement

-photo by Country Club

As the sun sets, Costa Mesa comes alive with vibrant nightlife options. Head to The Triangle for a mix of trendy bars and live music venues. The Country Club offers a stylish setting for cocktails and dancing, making it the ideal spot to cap off your night with a bang.


Costa Mesa is a dazzling blend of culinary delights, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re a weekend traveler, a business nomad extending your stay, or a SoCal resident looking for excitement, this vibrant city has something for everyone. Embrace the energy, savor the flavors, and make it an unforgettable overnight celebration of fall festivities!

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Posted in Events, Food, Shopping

Sip, Savor, and Celebrate the Best of Fall in Costa Mesa

Posted on October 4, 2023 | 5:21pm

As the air turns crisper and the sunsets start to show their vibrant hues, Costa Mesa awakens with a unique energy that evokes the essence of fall. With countless exciting events, mouthwatering culinary experiences, and Instagram-worthy spots, this season in Costa Mesa is not one to be missed. Whether you’re a local or planning a visit, here’s your ultimate guide to celebrating fall in style.

Sip Your Way into Fall at Coffee Dose and Portola Coffee

Portola fall coffee offerings

-Photo by OC Mix

Kickstart your day with a visit to two local gems, Coffee Dose and Portola Coffee. These beloved coffee shops have crafted special fall drinks that are sure to delight your taste buds and warm your soul.

At Coffee Dose, indulge in their “Basic Witch” Latte – their take on the pumpkin spice latte made with a creamy blend of espresso, oat milk, brown sugar, organic pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cardamom, and a touch of sea salt. For those craving something unique, try the “Cereal Killer” Latte, a sweet concoction that perfectly captures the essence of autumn by blending the flavors of a maple cinnamon latte topped with cinnamon sweet cream and Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal. Enjoy these fall drinks now through November 3rd and make sure not to miss the entertaining and spooky messages adorning each cup.

Meanwhile, Portola Coffee offers a delicious Maple Chai Cold Brew, which combines rich cold brew coffee with the warm flavors of maple syrup, chai cold foam, and cinnamon. If you’re in the mood for a classic fall treat, their Autumn Spice Latte is a comforting choice, with sweet potato, brown sugar, marshmallow whip, and aromatic spices that evoke the season’s spirit.

Get into the Fall Spirit at Tanaka Farms – Hana Field Pumpkin Patch & Flower Field

-Photo by Tanaka Farms

For a quintessential fall experience, head over to Tanaka Farms and explore their Hana Field Pumpkin Patch and Flower Field. Located right in the heart of Costa Mesa, this family-owned farm is a haven for pumpkin enthusiasts of all ages.

Take a leisurely stroll through the 8-acres of pumpkin fields, select your own pumpkins, and snap some Instagram-worthy photos amidst the vibrant orange backdrop. With a wide variety of pumpkins to choose from, you’re bound to find the perfect one to carve or decorate for Halloween.

In addition to pumpkins, you can explore endless sunflower and marigold fields for stunning fall photos. Enjoy attractions like a corn maze, flower picking (seasonal availability), an educational Barnyard Exhibit, and much more! Don’t forget the picnic areas for a relaxing meal or grab a snack from the Hana Field Food Truck! They are open every Saturday & Sunday from 10am -6pm starting September 30th – October 29th. Book your pumpkin patch experience here.

South Coast Plaza: Fall’s Fashion and Fun

-Photo by South Coast Plaza

No visit to Costa Mesa is complete without a trip to South Coast Plaza, the premier shopping destination in Southern California. This fall, South Coast Plaza comes alive with a variety of events and offerings that are sure to appeal to all ages.

Explore the latest fall fashion trends in the luxury boutiques and department stores that call South Coast Plaza home. With an array of designer labels and collections, you’ll find everything you need to update your wardrobe for the season.

But it’s not just about shopping at South Coast Plaza; there are also fall cooking classes to satisfy your culinary cravings. Discover the flavors of fall during the Sur La Table & Le Creuset cooking classes through October 21st, where you can enjoy hands-on classes like ‘Autumn in Italy’ and ‘Tuscan Surf & Turf’.

Savor the Season in Costa Mesa

-Photo by @Behrpaw

Costa Mesa offers an irresistible blend of fall happenings and flavors that are sure to enchant anyone seeking an unforgettable autumn experience. From exclusive seasonal lattes at Coffee Dose and Portola Coffee to wandering through Hana Field Pumpkin Patch and immersing yourself in the vibrant energy of South Coast Plaza, Costa Mesa is the place to be this fall. So, embrace the season, explore the city, and make this autumn your most vibrant and memorable one yet! Find more fall happenings here.

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Posted in Misc

Over-The-Top Food For This Year’s OC Fair

Posted on July 11, 2023 | 7:22am

Chances are good that you’ve been waiting all year to see what deliciously eyebrow-raising foods the creative vendors of the OC Fair have cooked up for us this year. Of all the fun the OC Fair brings to Costa Mesa each year, the free pass to indulge in new and curious foods is hard to beat. That’s why we’re showing you some of the newest additions to this year’s menu, along with our old favorites.

If you want to fit the most into your your OC Fair food tour, stop by on Thursdays between noon and 4 p.m. when vendors will be offering a sampling of treats for $4 each! And be sure to buy your OC Fair tickets ahead of time, because advance tickets are required.

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Posted in Events, Food

Your Top Ways to Save This Year at The OC Fair

Posted on June 26, 2023 | 8:02am

What time is it? It’s time to be “Happy Together” at the OC Fair, July 14 through August 13, 2023, only at the OC Fair and Event Center in Costa Mesa! Find out all about this year’s fair, one of the biggest on the West Coast and one of the ten largest fairs in the United States!

This year’s 2023 OC Fair has some great offers and specials. Advance ticket purchase is required as the fair is limiting the number of admission tickets available for each day. Choose your days and plan your summer! The good thing is, when you buy tickets online for the OC Fair, you’ll pay no service fees on admission tickets. Before you go, you can also read over the fair’s Frequently Asked Questions page for more information. 

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Posted in Misc