Hi, everyone! My name is Hannalee Isaacs, and I'm a first-year pre-political science and sociology double major from Chapel Hill, North Carolina. As Chaplain, my job is to be a “spiritual guide” for the chapter. In this time of social distancing and online learning, I take this to mean being a unifier when we cannot be physically together. With this, I plan to post monthly blog posts with my “Chaplain’s Choice,” which will be a curated list of products and experiences that I hope to share with my sisters and the greater UCLA community. To celebrate Women’s History Month, below is a list of my March monthly favorites that support and highlight women throughout different industries.
I love all types of tacos, especially breakfast tacos! Honestly, I could write this entire blog post about tacos, and Homestate Tacos in particular!
Homestate is a DELICIOUS, self-branded “Texas Kitchen.” Briana Valdez, owner and Texas native, yearned to bring the food she ate during her childhood in Austin to Los Angeles. She started with a small storefront that has now grown into the vibrant, warm sit down restaurant that we know today. On my last trip to Los Angeles, I visited Homestate Tacos multiple days in a row so that I could try out all of their different menu items. In the mood for breakfast tacos? I recommend the Neches and Pecos tacos. Make sure to order all of the hot sauces and salsas as well! But, my favorite part of this women-owned business is the flour tortillas. I’m a fan of a really good homemade flour tortilla, and Homestate Tacos does not disappoint. Getting to watch the tortillas being made fresh was a really special experience for me. For years, I’ve been making my Los Angeles-based family bring me tortillas when they come to visit, so getting to see them made right in front of my eyes was a full circle moment I truly appreciated. *brb while I go cry over my love for tacos*
Hollywood Location: 4624 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90027
Highland Park Location: 5611 N. Figueroa St. Unit #1, Los Angeles, CA 90042
Playa Vista Location: 12105 W Waterfront Drive Suite B, Los Angeles, CA 90094
Locations in Pasadena and West Adams coming soon!!
Shopping at women-owned businesses can be a great way to give back to and support the hard work of those within the community. Serena Mitnik-Miller and Mason St. Peter opened General Store in San Francisco in 2009 and have since opened a second location in Venice. From home goods to clothing to jewelry, General Store sells all types of products that will add some joy to your lifestyle. Not in Los Angeles? No worries! General Store ships across the United States. The brass hair pins are at the top of my shopping cart! P.S. I’m a big fan of Baggu bags, which General Store offers!
Venice Location: 1801 Lincoln Blvd. Venice, CA 90291
Anyone who knows me knows I LOVE ice cream. It doesn’t matter the season, the time of day, or the flavor, ice cream makes me happy. Coolhaus, a leading women-owned ice cream company with innovative flavors and artisanal ice cream sandwiches, is one of my go-to ice cream brands. The owners are dedicated to creating a dessert line which represents their diverse customer base and aim to increase inclusion in business leadership. You can enjoy all Coolhaus products in person at their storefront, at their food truck in Culver City, or from the comfort of your own home -- no matter where you’re located! Whole Foods offers select pints and ice cream sandwiches as well! My current favorite pints are “Queens’ Coffee” and “Chocolate Molten Cake,” and the best ice cream sammie, in my opinion, is the “Mint Ice Cream Sammie.” Plus, I’m a sucker for the puns on their pint lids!
Culver City Location: 8588 Washington Blvd. Culver City CA 90232
Find a retailer near you here!
The Individual Medley Store offers apothecary items, apparel, and accessories. Their simple but elegant jewelry and funny card selections are some of my store faves! Owners Monica Navarro and Justin Boyes take pride in their business for putting the community first and inviting local partners in to use their space for workshops. Check out the Individual Medley Store’s blog that highlights Los Angeles-based women from various creative careers.
Pro tip - a lot of the apparel items are on sale for up to 50%!!
Atwater Village Location: 3176 Glendale Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90039
Armchair Expert Podcast with Amy Poehler
I’m a huge fan of Armchair Expert, a podcast hosted by Dax Shepherd and Monica Padman. Amy Poehler, who appears as a guest on Episode 299, speaks of being a role model for women, her newly released Netflix film “Moxie,” and the current state of feminism. One of the most powerful moments of the episode is hearing Poehler discuss her feelings and response towards the fact that her accomplishments have often been devalued in the past because of the fact that she is a woman. She recounts being asked on many occasions if she can believe she is regularly featured on billboards or has the opportunity to star in various movies. In response, Poehler firmly states, “I can, can you?” This episode is a great listen for anyone interested in learning more about combatting sexism in Hollywood and to learn more about Poehler’s new movie, Moxie, now on Netflix!
Episode available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify
To learn more about Los Angeles women-owned restaurants, check out https://www.regardingherfood.com/restauranthers
To learn more about Los Angeles women-owned businesses, check out https://www.latimes.com/lifestyle/story/2021-03-03/women-led-la-businesses-international-womens-day-2021
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