Malibu’s commercial sector welcomes summer visitors and locals alike
Eateries, boutiques, and art galleries offer an array of goods, experiences, and dining delights as well
Every local business owner in Malibu knows that the success of their business hinges on two things: First, attracting the many millions of visitors to our beaches; Second, offering products, experiences or services that locals also patronize. Over time, businesses hitting both sweet spots consistently experience the most success in our town.
Malibu has a few new businesses. GLO Yoga Studios opens in Trancas Country Market. The Studio’s co-founder, Tarik Celebi, said, “This is about more than yoga. It’s about building back community, offering a space for connection and introducing an entirely new way to experience wellness.”
Elaborating, he said, “We see this as a way to bring people together again — to restore, reset, and rebuild with intention.”
The studios will offer infrared heat, Yoga Sculpt, High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT), sculpt pilates and meditation.”Celebi shared. “Wellness is evolving and Malibu deserves to be at the forefront of that evolution,” Celebi noted that thevenue will open in late July.
Just in time for summer, Malibu has two new art galleries
Bobbi Bennett, a well-known local surfboard artist, has opened her own location, currently on an appointment-only basis, but soon to have regular hours of business so that those who are intrigued by her art can pop in.
Bennett’s Stoked Malibu Gallery offers works by Bennett, Will Pierce, the late world-renowned photographer Guy Webster, who was Bennett’s mentor, and Kristina Grace. More artists will be showcased soon.
Readers interested in making an appointment at the gallery, can reach out to Bennett at (805) 680-3587, and they may wish to peruse all the gallery has to offer at malibugalleries.com. The gallery is located at 29170 Heathercliff Road, Suite 6, right next to the post office.
“My new location is a more intimate space where I can take time with each client,” Bennett said, noting that she is doing a lot of art consulting, including helping clients who are rebuilding homes after the Palisades Fire select new art for their rebuilt homes. “My goal is to make a client’s home feel great at every turn. My new space also has a sculpture garden and is located in the same building as Malgosia Design, so our whole building is full of creatives.”
Bennett has also partnered with Cliff & Christie Graham’s ART Gallery in Point Dume, which opened earlier this month. “The Grahams fell in love with my surfboards!” Bennett said, noting that she, in turn, has fallen in love with the art being displayed at Graham’s.
“Having been part of the Malibu community for nearly 20 years, we’ve seen firsthand how much people value creativity, culture, and meaningful experiences,” Christie said. “Creating a dedicated exhibition space here feels natural and is an opportunity to contribute to the creative spirit that makes Malibu such a special place. The space reflects [the] Grahams’ ongoing commitment to building community through art and supporting contemporary artists. Cliff is an artist himself and we are also the author of two children’s books; Cliff illustrated his book.”
Ever community-minded and aiming to help the greater good, Christie noted that “proceeds from book sales have helped us help children around the world in disasters, wars, and difficulties, which we have been doing since 2008.” Readers may enjoy "The Littlest Pebble," a story for all ages that includes a reminder that everyone has a purpose in life, Christie explained.
Cross Creek Ranch welcomes new and relocating venues
The Shop by Wheat opened in Cross Creek Ranch, offering a curated, coastal-luxe lifestyle and apparel boutique that features offerings by high-end designers, beach accessories, some toys and books for children, and a wide array of jewelry.
Two other Malibu boutiques have relocated to Cross Creek Ranch. Brandy Melville USA opened at the Ranch in late May, offering all the merchandise it is known for, including swimwear and vacation and resort wear, all on show in the establishment’s much larger space.
Similarly, Zadig & Voltaire has relocated to the Ranch. “Malibu resonates with the spirit of Zadig & Voltaire.” declared Thierry Gillier, the label’s founder. “Malibu has an effortless freedom — relaxed, yet sophisticated, which reflects the way Zadig & Voltaire views both style and lifestyle.”
Not closed, just relocated
Two venues in Malibu have relocated recently. In Malibu Country Mart, The New West has relocated within the retail center and is now across from John Vavartos in the breezeway.
Finally, Malibu Eye Center, owned by Dr. Gregory O’Conner, long optometrist in Malibu, has moved from Point Dume Plaza to the Ocean View building located at 24955 PCH Suite A-103. The staff welcomes patrons, offering hours of operation as follows: Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with lunch from 12:30 to 2 p.m.; Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. with lunch from 1 to 2 p.m.; and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Appointments are accepted, but folks can walk-in for service as well.