/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/45381796/racked_placeholder.4.0.jpg)
Racked is no longer publishing. Thank you to everyone who read our work over the years. The archives will remain available here; for new stories, head over to Vox.com, where our staff is covering consumer culture for The Goods by Vox. You can also see what we’re up to by signing up here.
Los Angeles has more stores than anyone could physically tackle, but somehow we always keep returning to the usual suspects. To break out of the rut, we've asked some local shopping and fashion gurus to provide their hidden retail gems—those unique stores around LA that we might not all know about. Cue the Beatles: We're about to get a little help from our friends.
Image via Yelp
Mindy Weiss is one of the most sought-after event planners and lifestyle experts in the United States. Based in Beverly Hills, the talented and glamorous Weiss has created weddings and parties for clients like Ellen DeGeneres and Portia Rossi, Katy Perry and Russell Brand (RIP), Nicole Richie and Joel Madden and Gwen Stefani and Gavin Rossdale. And that's just the tip of the iceberg. Seriously, her client list is insane. The ever-accommodating party guru recently informed us of her favorite go-to spot in Culver City for all her wedding needs. But shh...don't spread the word too fast.
"One of my favorite shops in LA is called Surfas in Culver City. The store is the ultimate insider location when planning a wedding or even an intimate dinner at home. I find such inspiration in all the aisles, whether it be candy wrappers, frosting tips or gourmet cheese. But best of all, don't forget to have a grilled cheese sandwich in the shop next door—they're out of this world. If you're looking to get started and seek inspiration for your upcoming wedding, this is definitely your one-stop-shop."
· Surfas [Official Site]
· Mindy Weiss [Official Site]
· All Shopping Confidential Posts [Racked LA]