Get the Lavish Treatment at Lavish Lashes and Skincare

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Are you ready to feel beautiful? Then head on over to Lavish Lashes and Skincare, a new business located in the Waterfront Warehouse at 445 W Weber Avenue Suite 132. With several experienced and licensed estheticians and lash artists at your service, choose from lash extensions, facials, skin care and waxing to feel beautiful and confident in your own skin! Today, we decided to sit down with Jessica Ramos, owner of this new beauty business to bring you all the details. 

Meet Jessica, Owner of Lavish Lashes and Skincare

Jessica Ramos, the owner of Lavish Lashes and Skincare, is an experienced business owner excited about opening her most recent business in Downtown Stockton. Before setting up shop in Stockton, she, “jumped around from place to place,” and lived in the Bay Area, Hawaii, and Texas. Throughout her journey leading up to Lavish Lashes and Skincare, Jessica opened several businesses along the way that always reflected her interests. For instance, she owned a club promotion company and an event planning company. She shares, “I’ve always been business-minded,” and credits her success to her parents, particularly her father, who owned his own business and passed his skills and knowledge onto her. 

What Services Do Lavish Lashes and Skincare Offer?

Jessica tells us, “I love giving facials and doing eyelash extensions,” but that isn’t all, because, “I love to have a variety of services!” The talented estheticians and lash artists offer all different type of soothing facials, beautiful eyelash extensions, brow lamination, body waxing, and they even carry a line of skincare available for purchase so that you can continue to treat your skin even after leaving the shop. Jessica also shares that she’s working on including body sculpting to the list!

Is your interest piqued yet? Lavish would love to welcome you as a new client! Although they accept walk-ins, appointments are preferred. You can book an appointment by messaging them through their Facebook or Instagram pages. 

What Makes Your Business Unique?

Jessica notes two things that makes Lavish Lashes and Skincare special: their array of services offered to clients, and that they have space rentals for estheticians who are not able to have their own establishments. She loves, “helping them grow and letting them be their own boss and having their own clients.” If you’re licensed through the state board of cosmetology and are interested in renting a space yourself, you can contact Lavish through their social media pages.

Why Downtown Stockton?

Jessica is a city girl who loves the city life, so it’s no surprise that she felt comfortable setting up her shop in Downtown Stockton! Specifically about Downtown Stockton, she says, “I really liked the whole Downtown feeling. There’s been a lot of changes.” She also shares that her favorite thing about downtown are the historical buildings and the nostalgic feeling they bring.

Additionally, Jessica loves her location in the Waterfront Warehouse, and appreciates that the Warehouse is working on revamping their building and making it more modern. The various businesses also located downtown was a selling point for her, too. She credits the DSA’s Instagram page for helping her find all these other businesses, as she, “never knew there were so many diverse businesses in the area.” All in all, Jessica is excited to “welcome anybody to come in and try our services,” and is looking forward to, “getting more involved in making Stockton better. “

Grand Opening

Did someone say raffles, giveaways and FREE food? Find all three at Lavish Lashes and Skincare’s GRAND OPENING on Saturday, April 24th from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.! They’ll be giving a tour of the suite and will be giving away free services, like eyelash extensions! You wouldn’t want to miss this. Don’t forget your mask! 

Don’t forget to follow Lavish on social media:
Instagram: @lavish_lashes_skincare
Facebook: @lavish.lashes.skincare

Give their Esthetician, Lina, a follow on Instagram too!
Instagram: @aestheticsbylinaa

The Women of Women-Owned Businesses in Downtown Stockton

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In honor of Women’s History Month, we’re featuring some of the faces behind downtown’s Women-Owned Businesses in this month’s blog! Below, you’ll meet some amazing female business owners, find out what inspired them to build their own businesses, and learn what they love most about being a woman.

D’lilah, D’lilah’s Cakery

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“I was inspired to open a business because I wanted to bring something fun to the area. Bring desserts people weren’t used to. Something fun for the young people. I also just really wanted to work for myself and support my own vision instead of building up someone else’s. One thing I can also say is by me taking a leap of faith, I’ve inspired other girls to do the same and follow their own vision, and I love that.”

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“My favorite thing about being a woman is the irrevocable strength we all obtain. We might be crying one minute and the next pulling it together to conquer whatever obstacle is in our way, and for that we are pretty bada** .”

Natalie Navarro, The Beauty Base

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“I love helping others feel more confident in themselves and opening in downtown has definitely helped reach a different audience to do so!”

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“What is there not to love about being a woman?! There’s so many opportunities out there for us now and if there isn’t, we’ll make it happen. I feel like all women have this certain drive of determination and I just love and admire that so much!”

Rima Barkett, BellaVista Rooftop & Events

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“I wanted to do something worthwhile in my life.”

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“[To be a woman] means to be someone who is not afraid to speak the truth for herself and for others. Means being compassionate, kind, vulnerable but at the same time tough and assertive. Being a woman is complicated but… magical. Because we, the women, we have the real power. When we will discover it the world will be a better place.”

Rosa Patricia “Patty” Ayala, UNIQO Salon

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“I am an entrepreneur at heart, having a business was always my dream , my beginning years as a stylist at my mothers shop in Mexico and traveling the world doing hair inspired me to one day have that ‘big city fashion salon’ in my hometown Stockton.”

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“Strong minded soft-hearted, they come together.”

Gwen Overton, Legendary Coffee and Books

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“Ever since I was a young girl, I’ve aspired to open my own business. As my interests in life changed, a few of my interests never did — my love and passion for people, coffee and books. At a former employment place, I started a coffee club where people would provide monthly dues to bring in good coffee and creamer. Little did I know, this would catapult my business idea to combine the three interests that never left my Spirit. In 2019, Legendary Coffee and Books was born. The same inspiration I had as a young child is the same inspiration I want to instill in every young person who walks through our café doors — If I could do it, you can do it too, and here’s how.”

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“My favorite thing about being a woman is our natural ability to make something fabulous. By design, we birth things into existence — life, success, businesses, a nation — our capacity to love unconditionally, our strength, power, beauty, spirits, and sisterhood. Women can do it all. Women have always made impactful contributions to this world in business, education, sports, politics, art, and finance, to name a few. I’m proud to be a woman and continue the incredible trailblazing legacy many amazing women have set before me.”

Marie Pease, The Freckled Moon

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“I’ve always wanted to own my own business. Doing what I love is my ultimate dream. Realizing working 9-5 for someone else wasn’t my idea of a great life. Creating and selling my creations was. I also wanted to prove to everyone that I could do it. Despite the odds stacked against me. Being a single mom of 4, working, raising kids and opening a business took determination and hard work. There were many obstacles but I overcame them and am living out my dreams. Set your goals and make it happen.”

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“I love everything about being a woman. I love how soft but hard we are. We are resilient, smart, kind, and powerful. I wouldn’t want to be anyone but me, a woman.”

Amy Sieffert , Goodstock Productions

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“Goodstock started in March 2015, with our flagship event, @stockmarketca. At the time, our mission was simple- to support local artists and entrepreneurs while fostering community connection, creative expression, and doing our part to promote the positive in Stockton. We didn’t anticipate that this one event would grow into a full-fledged events company. Since then, we’ve branched out into non-profit fundraisers, weddings, socials, and celebrations of all kinds. In 2020, we did our fair share of virtual events as well!

Our beginnings were pretty humble and involved literal blood, sweat & tears. We’ve been through the death of a friend and mentor, 2 partners, moving 3 times, becoming an LLC, growing from volunteers to interns to employees…. and now a pandemic.”

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“Not sure what the future holds, but this is certain- I’m proud to have brought this dream to fruition, to help others realize theirs, and to have done so as a woman.

Some things I love about event planning are the same things I love about being a woman~ proving assumptions wrong, challenging unrealistic standards and nurturing individuality… after all, event planning is basically the same thing women do every day- take ideas and turn them into reality.”

Check out our business directory for a complete list of women-owned businesses in downtown to help you plan your next visit into downtown!

UNIQO: A Unique Salon in Downtown Stockton

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UNIQO is a beautiful, modern salon located at 36 N. California Street in one of Downtown Stockton’s historic buildings. This month, we sat down and spoke with Patty Ayala, the successful owner of UNIQO, to learn more about her, UNIQO, and how this gorgeous salon found its way to calling Downtown Stockton home. 

Meet Patty Ayala! 

Rosa Patricia “Patty” Ayala is the talented and creative owner of UNIQO Salon. Born and raised in Mexico, her passion for hairdressing ignited within her at an early age as she watched her mother work her hairdressing magic in her salon. It was then that Patty, “started playing in my mom’s shop — playing with hair.” She cherished having a creative space, and soon also found a love for fashion and photoshoots. Later in her life, she and her family decided to move to the United States, where Patty, “pursued my passion, which was hairdressing.”

After settling in Stockton, Patty attended Marinello School of Beauty, which was located in Downtown Stockton’s Waterfront Warehouse at the time. Her affinity for the business side of hairdressing made her determined to own her own salon in the future. After graduating from Beauty School, she worked in several salons and even went on to receive an advanced education. Patty traveled to places like New York and London and was, “getting taught by people and companies I [she] looked up to.” Impressively, her journey didn’t stop there — she also worked for several hair companies and as an instructor before opening UNIQO.

The Message Behind Uniqo

Since Patty believes that it’s “important to represent who I am and where I come from,” it isn’t surprising that UNIQO’s name is inspired by the word único, which is the word for “unique” in Spanish. But wait, there’s more to the name! Patty explains that the “U” in UNIQO is a reminder that the entire experience is catered to “U” – the guest, the community, and the stylist. This is why she and her team work hard to ensure a welcoming, relaxing environment in their beautiful, modern space where customer service is the number one priority.

What makes this hair salon so unique? Patty confidently answers, “because we challenge the status quo.” She continues, “it’s a hair experience [and] self care is so important.” (Fun fact: UNIQO is also known for their signature hair massage for every client!) Not only does Patty and her team offer the best experience for every client that walks through their doors, but Patty also truly cares for her team, too. She works to create an environment that helps to cultivate careers in hairdressing and develop professionals in the field.

Why Downtown Stockton?

Despite traveling around the world and amassing substantial experience in the hair and beauty industry, Patty decided to open her salon in her hometown: Stockton. After being inspired by the new, trendy businesses that were opening in the downtown area, she thought to herself, “how can I create something different in my hometown?” After working up the courage to meet with Ten Space, Patty “took a leap of faith and took my dream to Downtown Stockton.” Patty’s search took her to 36 N. California Street, the location of a beautifully historic and spacious building. Since October of 2017, the gorgeous space has been home to UNIQO.

Patty’s Experience As A Downtown Business Owner

Patty has high praise for Downtown Stockton as she enthusiastically shares, “[its] been an amazing experience because there are so many cool, young entrepreneur business owners in downtown,” and, “the energy that flows here is incredible!” Before the pandemic affected businesses last year in 2020, Patty remembers the liveliness of downtown, from students and city employees walking around to busy restaurants. She also appreciates the supportive network that exists between downtown business owners and says she’s made, “amazing relationships with people here.”

Patty has an important message for business owners, creatives, and artists: “believe in the city and take the risk to create your dreams in Downtown Stockton!” She wants to encourage prospective business owners to become part of the downtown community, because it’s the “perfect location” and there’s “zero competition” since, “businesses are very supportive with each other.” She continues, “Stockton has so much potential — but people and artists leave the city. Let’s keep the talent in Stockton!”

How Can We Support Uniqo?

The pandemic greatly affected businesses, and UNIQO was no exception. For the first time since their opening, they had to close down for most of 2020 — so they had to get creative! They now sell professional, high-quality hair care products and gift cards. Patty is currently using her creativity and eye for fashion to design tote bags and merch so you can, “support by buying! [It’s a] good time to support small businesses!”

With their recent reopening, the best way to support UNIQO is by booking an appointment to get your hair styled, colored, or cut! If you’re not sure what you’d like done, you can even book a hair consultation. Rest assured, the UNIQO team is well versed in the latest hair trends and offer specialties from hair extensions, color corrections, blowouts, barbering and curly hair. if you haven’t visited the salon yet, now’s your chance! The chic, modern interior, filled by the natural light filtering in through the large windows is the perfect setting for your next hair appointment. Oh, and did we mention the relaxing ambiance and friendly team awaiting you?

Book your appointment today and get social with UNIQO! Find them on Facebook, Instagram, Tik Tok, and LinkedIn.

UNIQO owner Patty Ayala discussing a hair style with a client
Some of UNIQO’s beautiful interior

Turn Your Passion into A Real Business with the Help of Centro Community Partners

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All Aspiring and Current Entrepreneurs Welcome

Do you have a dream of waking up every morning and going to work at a business that you own? Maybe you’ve given tapping into your creativity and turning your passion into a living some serious thought. Whether you have a love for creating sweet confections, a passion for photographing life’s best moments, or anything in between, Centro Community Partners can help you get one step closer to being your own boss. Read our blog to learn more — and who knows? One day, you might even own your very own brick and mortar in the heart of Downtown Stockton. 

What is Centro Community Partners?

Centro Community Partners is a 501c3 non-profit organization, and their mission is to, “build thriving communities by providing undeserved, low-income entrepreneurs with entrepreneurship education, one-on-one business advising, mentorship, and access to capital.” In other words, they work to provide education, skills and opportunities to aspiring business owners who need a little help turning their dreams into reality. If you’ve ever considered being your own boss but didn’t feel ready to step out of your comfort zone, we’ve got a helpful solution: check out Centro’s programs! They currently offer the following programs to aspiring entrepreneurs: the Basic Entrepreneurship Program and the Advanced Entrepreneurship Program. The best part? They’re absolutely FREE of charge to join this year. 

Programs For the Aspiring Business Owner and Established Business Owner 

The Basic Entrepreneurship program is aimed towards aspiring business owners who have made the decision to dedicate themselves to the path of owning a business — no prior experience or specific level of education required! If you’re willing to put in the work, Centro’s team will be more than willing to help guide you in your journey! In this program, you’ll expand your knowledge of business concepts, develop your own business concept, broaden your professional network, and more. Sound interesting? Click here to view a schedule of an upcoming program, and register today. 

The Advanced Entrepreneurship program, on the other hand, is designed for established business owners who aim to grow their small businesses to reach $100k in annual revenue. So if you’re already working as a small business owner, this may be the program for you! Here, you’d work with fellow entrepreneurs and advisors to analyze your current business, develop improvement goals, and execute action plans to achieve these goals. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to further grow your business! Register for an upcoming program here. 

A Familiar Face

If you do decide to sign up for an upcoming program (we definitely recommend it – we’re rooting for you!) you may see a familiar face: the DSA’s Economic Development Director, Courtney Wood! Courtney, armed with her MBA Degree and years of experience in economic development, also serves as a trainer for the local Centro programs. Luckily, she was able to share more details with us about Centro:

How would you describe your experience so far as a mentor/trainer for Centro Community Partners?

“Being a trainer for Centro for the past 4 years has been a very rewarding and educational experience. Each entrepreneur has their own story, vision, and motivation for pursuing entrepreneurship, and yet they face many common struggles or obstacles that must be navigated in order to achieve their dreams. I enjoy helping entrepreneurs think deeply and critically about how to solve their business challenges and reach their goals; and I love seeing the amazing creativity, idea-sharing, and collaboration which grows out of the think-tank kind of environment that Centro programs cultivate.”

In your own words, why would you encourage an aspiring entrepreneur to participate in Centro’s programs?

“Centro offers a few types of workshops suited to the needs of entrepreneurs at different levels of support: 

Business Planning Bootcamps are great for people looking to quickly and easily create a very basic version of their business plan (2 days!), whether they are just in the idea phase or are already in operation.

Basic Entrepreneur Workshops are best for helping entrepreneurs (or aspiring entrepreneurs) create a more robust, polished business plan (which may be needed in preparation for a loan); develop their business pitch; and cultivate a basic understanding of the moving parts of running their business, from market analysis to business finance.

Advanced Entrepreneur Workshops are best for those entrepreneurs already in business who are looking for support in trying to take their business to the next level – it is a very action and task-oriented workshop where entrepreneurs are pushed to achieve their goals by the facilitator, each other, small business advisors, and themselves!

While the focus of each program is slightly different, attendees of all Centro programs receive core benefits:

  1. Aid in forming a solid, business-plan based foundation upon which they can securely build
  2. A supportive group environment where each entrepreneur can feel comfortable sharing their triumphs, tips, and struggles
  3. Access to 1:1 advising 
  4. Connection with other resources or organizations that can also help them on their entrepreneurial journey, including access to 0% interest lender Kiva

Bonus: In Stockton, Centro partners with the Mexican Heritage Center & Gallery in downtown. Due to the pandemic, all programs have transitioned to a fully virtual format and are being offered entirely for free through 2021.”

Are there upcoming programs?

“Yes! Upcoming Stockton-focused programs are:

Mar. 9th – Apr. 27th – Advanced Entrepreneur Workshop (In English) – This program has already begun, but we are still accepting registrations through Monday March 15th.
May 18th – June 15th – Basic Entrepreneur Workshop (In English)
Apr. 24th & 25th – Business Plan Bootcamp (En Español)

Keep up with future Stockton program dates here.

Finally, Centro is also offering free 1:1 advising for businesses needing support due to the pandemic. If interested, either fill out this form, call +1 (510) 556-4249 , or email  [email protected]

We Wish You the Best!

Now that you’ve learned a little more about Centro Community Partners and the amazing work they do for aspiring small business owners, we hope you take advantage of their programs and register for upcoming classes. If you need some motivation, check out these success stories. Now, you’re one step closer to owning your own business!

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The Freckled Moon: A Shop of Small Treasures

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Imagine: you’re in Downtown Stockton, and you stumble across a charming shop. One step through its doors and you’re met with a cheerful greeting and a plethora of shining trinkets, vibrant greenery in clay pots, stunning jewelry, and pleasantly-scented candles— amongst other treasures displayed on the shop’s shelves. As you browse, you feel the rays of sunshine that are filtering through the large, front windows. Where are you? None other than The Freckled Moon, a shop of unique gifts and baubles located at 219 E. Weber Ave.

The Freckled Moon is undoubtedly one of the most unique, art-centered shops you can find in the city. We first introduced them to you on our blog back in 2018, when they first opened their shop downtown. Now, three years later, we decided to pop back in and see how this lovely shop was doing. 

A Family of Creatives Own the Freckled Moon 

Marie Pease and her daughters, Raven and Aria, have always lived in California (Marie was born in Modesto and later lived in Riverbank), but the family didn’t move to Stockton until 2000. After selling art at events such as the Stockmarket, they decided to open their own brick and mortar in Downtown Stockton during 2018.

Marie loves to create and proves it in her passion and versatility for the arts. She creates macrame pieces, dream catchers, and curates crystals and spiritual-type items. Even though she has tried her hand at so many different kinds of art, she enthusiastically shares, “I love to learn new things!” To add to her current list of skills, she’s also learning embroidering and plans to dabble in pottery in the near future. 

The art and creativity genes definitely passed onto Raven and Aria, as they are also creators and help Marie run The Freckled Moon. This, “eclectic gathering of unique items and handmade items,” not only features the family’s creations, but they also source many of their items, such as handmade soaps and lotions, from local artists. How cool is it to not only support a local shop, but to support a variety of local artists?

The Journey So Far  

Marie tells us that she, “really love[s] Downtown Stockton!” She especially enjoys the historic and beautiful architecture found downtown and the, “great businesses down here.” A few of her favorites include: Cast Iron Trading Co,. Empresso Coffeehouse, and The Golden Rose Barbershop Co. She admits that foot traffic, particularly during the time of the pandemic, hasn’t been as heavy as she would have liked. Fortunately, she says that she’s started to see this changing, and hopes to see a steady increase over time.

How to Support the Moon 

How can we support the Freckled Moon? “Shop! Visit us!” Marie suggests with a smile. Times are undeniably tough during the pandemic, so out of convenience for their customers, The Freckled Moon also offers curbside pickup and local delivery. The best way to reach them and set this up is through direct message on Instagram. There, you can “DM us anytime!” And Marie will be more than happy to help you out! Even if you can’t pick up some new items for yourself at this time, you can still support this family-owned local business by sharing their posts on Facebook and Instagram.

Follow The Freckled Moon on Facebook and Instagram to be the first to see their newest products and stay up to date on the latest news of collaborations or events. They hope to see you soon! 

Sweet Downtown Gifts and Treats For Your Valentine

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Love is in the air, sweet chocolate and soft teddy bears line the shelves, red roses glisten in floral shops, cupid is shooting off his arrows, and there’s an abundance of heart-shaped everything. You know what this means: Valentine’s Day is just around the corner! Whether you’re celebrating with bae or alone (nothing wrong with that, treat yo’self), we’ve compiled a list of sweet downtown gifts and treats you can pick up for your valentine!

Classic, Gorgeous Bouquets from Alex Floral Design

Keep it classic and classy this year with a fragrant bouquet of red roses for your Valentine from Alex Floral Design! Or, you can spice up your arrangement and add some different colors to the mix (pink roses, white lilacs, yellow sunflowers – the possibilities are endless!) Visit the Alex Floral Website to view their dazzling selection of fresh flower arrangements. Don’t forget to add a box of chocolates for a truly classic pairing.

Strawberry Ice Cream Cake Jars from D’lilah’s Cakery

A cake jar for Valentine’s Day? Yes, please! And let’s be honest – cake jars are great any time of year. D’lilah’s Cakery is offering special Strawberry Ice Cream Cake Jars only this Valentine’s Day Weekend, so don’t miss out on your chance to score on a scrumptious jar of fluffy strawberry cake and refreshing strawberry ice cream topped with fresh whipped cream and wafers. Get one to share with your Valentine, or skip sharing and grab one for each of you! Warning: once you step into the cakery, the temptation to buy one of every treat will be hard to resist!

Beautiful (and delicious!) Fruit Arrangements from Edible Arrangements

If your Valentine is a fruit lover, opt for a bouquet of fresh, chocolate dipped strawberries, bananas, pineapples, and more from Edible Arrangements in Downtown Stockton. Other delectable options also include cookie bundles, a Chocolate Strawberry Sweetheart Box, and Chocolate and Truffle boxes. Don’t forget to add on extra special treats like a cute card or balloon!

New Drinks from Empresso’s To Match the Valentine Vibe

Valentine’s Day means pink and red everything! Match the vibe perfectly by picking up one of Empresso Coffee House’s new pink or red-hued drinks: Dragonfruit Smoothie or Lemonade, or the Passion Dragon, which is an organic mango black tea with lemonade, passionfruit and dragonfruit. Pick up two of your faves with your Valentine and enjoy them on Empresso’s patio, or during a walk around downtown, or take ‘em home to enjoy!

Stationary Station and More to Show Your Love from The Freckled Moon

The Freckled Moon is known for its unique gifts and baubles, which already make it the perfect shop to visit when in search of cute valentine gifts! Their Stationary Station is full of amazing treasures that are perfect for Valentines who love to write, keep planners, scrapbook, and more! The Freckled Moon also has an array of items such as adorable potted succulents, fun jewelry, and lovely decorative pieces.

Think Flowers Are Overrated? Get Your Love a Succulent from FarOut Foliage

If your Valentine has a green thumb (or is interested in becoming a plant parent), drop by FarOut Foliage for a fantastic selection of unique plants! Not sure which one to choose or how to take care of them? Don’t worry- Nessie, the friendly owner of FarOut Foliage, LOVES talking plants! She’ll be more than happy to help you select the perfect new plant baby, and will share all the tips and tricks you need to keep it beautiful. 

Spread the Love By Getting Dutch Bros

What if I told you you could get Dutch Bros and help our community at the same time? This Sunday, February 14th, is Dutch Luv Day, where $1 from every drink sold in Stockton Dutch Bros goes to the Emergency Food Bank of Stockton to help fight hunger. On average, $1 donated can pay for three meals. Now there’s even more of a reason to pick up Dutch Bros Cold Brews, Freezes, Frosts, Rebels, Teas, Smoothies, Sodas, Lemonades – you get the point, there’s so much to choose from! Now, not only will your Valentine love you for grabbing her/him Dutch Bros, but because you’re also helping a good cause! 

Whatever you decide to do, we hope you have a safe and lovely Valentine’s Day Weekend Downtown!

One Eleven Web Design, the New Full Service Marketing Company in Downtown

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You’ve probably experienced the wonders of the Mexican Heritage Center and Gallery in Downtown Stockton at some point before (if you haven’t, the exhibits are calling your name!). The Gallery at 111 S. Sutter St., with its fascinating and vibrant art pieces, now houses something new on its second floor: One Eleven Web Design! One Eleven Web Design is a full service marketing company that offers web development, social media marketing, SEO services, ADA website work, and traditional print and graphic services.

Meet Eric Vaughn

Eric Vaughn, owner of One Eleven Web Design, was born and raised right here in Stockton. A graduate from Franklin High (Go Yellow Jackets!), Eric moved to Lodi and eventually settled in Acampo with his wife and two children. We sat down with Eric to learn more about his business and the journey that ultimately brought One Eleven Web Design to the downtown community- after all, he tells us, “this journey has been a crazy one for sure!”

What inspired you to create One Eleven Web Design?

Before solidifying himself in the world of web development, Eric spent 17 years in sales and marketing in the Construction Industry. What influenced his decision to leave this field? It all started when he was asked by Lodi Christian School to build their website. From this experience, he, “found something I really loved to do, so I stuck with it.”

In 2018, Eric changed the name of his business from Red Truck Designs to One Eleven Web Design, to indicate the focus of his company at the time: building websites. However, he says, “God has a funny way of taking your plans and really turning them upside down,” because immediately after the name change, clients started requesting brochures, business cards, social media, and other marketing materials for their businesses. Eric describes that these early customers significantly helped shape his business into what we see today, as it led him to realize that, “there was a real need in the market for a company that could help a small, local business bring all of their marketing together.”

What makes One Eleven Web Design unique?

One Eleven Web Design’s mission is to, “Help our customers elevate their brand and bring all their digital and print assets together to represent a cohesive company.” Eric further explains that they, “take a hands-on approach with every customer and fully manage their website and digital presence. Our customers can focus on their business, while we focus on their marketing.” This is important, Eric explains, because many web designing businesses do just that- design the website, but then not much else. The client would then be on their own to manage the website and all other marketing responsibilities. This can be too much for business owners who want to put more of their time and focus into the business itself. 

Why did you decide to open your business in Downtown Stockton?

When deciding where to move his business, Eric strongly considered two places: Elk Grove and Stockton. Since many of One Eleven Web Designs customers were located in Stockton and throughout Stanislaus County, though, “Stockton seemed like a natural fit.” Additionally, Eric shares, “I believe this is where we’re going to see the growth of businesses and entrepreneurs in downtown. I wanted to be in the middle of it. There’s an energy here and it’s exciting to be part of this community.”

What do you like most about downtown?

Eric cites the variety of businesses in the area, stating that he loves to, “get out of the office and explore all the restaurants and coffee spots here. It’s nice to be able to take a walk during the day and get out of the office for a few minutes. Although much of my work day is digital, I prefer to get out and be a part of the community rather than just ordering something from my phone.” We hear you, Eric, Downtown Stockton’s streets are lined with so many different local businesses that it definitely makes for great walking paths with many spots to explore!

Overall, we’re excited to have One Eleven Web Designs here with us in Downtown Stockton. If you’re in need of a website, marketing materials, or would like to inquire about their services, give their website a visit!

Feel the Holiday Spirit in Downtown

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’Tis the season of twinkling lights, bright decorations, gift shopping and of course- holiday events! The holidays may look different this year because of the pandemic, but there are still many ways we can bring on the cheer! To help you fill up your calendar for the rest of the month, we’ve compiled a list of just a few things you can do in Downtown Stockton this year. Happy Holidays!

1. Vote in the DSA Holiday Contest

WHEN: Dec.14th – Dec. 17th at noon
WHERE: DSA Facebook and Instagram pages
This year, the DSA is hosting a Holiday Contest to challenge our Downtown Stockton businesses owners to share creative holiday photos featuring their business. Even if you’re not a downtown business owner, get involved by viewing the awesome photos and voting to help your favorite businesses win! To vote, head over to our Facebook and Instagram pages and leave a like on your favorite photos. The voting period begins on Monday, December 14th, and will end on Thursday, December 17th at noon. The photos will definitely have you feeling the spirit of Christmas! 

2. Virtual Visits with Santa

WHEN: Book now! Available dates: Dec.16,19, 22 & 23
WHERE: Anywhere you want!
This year, the Children’s Museum of Stockton is hosting virtual visits with Saint Nicholas himself. Create a magical moment for you and your loved ones with a visit from the North Pole right into your home (no milk and cookies required!). Imagine how excited the kiddos will be to see and interact with the one, the only, Santa Claus right in their living room for a personalized visit. All proceeds will benefit the Children’s Museum of Stockton and Children’s Museum members receive special pricing. End the year with some magic!

3. Gift Shopping

There are two kinds of people: those who get their Christmas shopping done early, and those who scramble for those last-minute gifts! Whichever you are (we fall into the second category), we’re here to give you some ideas. Our local businesses need our support more than ever, and the holidays are the perfect time to shop local to find fun gifts for your friends and family. Walk into the Freckled Moon for unique gifts and trinkets of all kinds or visit FarOut Foliage to pick up a lush plant that can up the aesthetic of any room. Venture into Edible Arrangements to pick out a beautiful (and delicious) arrangement made of your favorite chocolate covered fruits or opt for a more traditional floral arrangement from Alex Floral. Several downtown restaurants, eatieries, and coffee shops, such as The Downtowner and Trail Coffee Roasters also offer gift cards, which can make great stocking stuffers or gifts on their own. Take a look at our complete directory of downtown businesses to plan your gift search and happy shopping!

4. Treat yourself

Anytime is a good time for self care, but its especially nice to treat yourself at the end of a long year- especially this one! Downtown Stockton is full of salons and barbershops, such as Natural Do and The Golden Rose Barbershop, ready to give you a fresh cut or new look for the holidays. If you’re looking for a refreshing skin treatment, head over to The Beauty Base. During the month of December, 20% from all of their sales/appointments will be used to create care packages for the homeless. Enjoy smooth skin and support a good cause. Speaking of skin, why not gift yourself a brand new tattoo for the holidays? We know you’ve been thinking about it. If you’re unsure about a new hairstyle, facial, or new tattoo, just remember these words: treat yo’self. 

5. Indulge in sweets

Add sweet treats to the holiday menu by picking up some scrumptious goods downtown. D’lilah’s Cakery is having their end-of-the-year sale from December 23rd to December 24th from 11am-4:30pm! Don’t miss out on the opportunity to score cupcakes, sweet jars, and cheesecake for some insanely low prices. If you’re looking for some homemade pie to add to the table on Christmas Day, look no further than Trail Coffee Roasters. Choose from sweet potato pie, pear crumble, and mixed berry pie (or get all three) and place your order today. Order by December 17th and pick up at the downtown Trail location on Christmas Eve. Delivery is also available.

Now, we hope you’ve made some new plans for the remainder of December. Thank you for your continued support of our wonderful downtown businesses. We wish you Happy Holidays and look forward to seeing you next year! 

The Beauty Base, A New Downtown Business Ready To Make You Feel Beautiful

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There are many things that await you in Downtown Stockton: a stunning new hairstyle, a vibrant plant, an intricate tattoo, and a delicious meal, to name a few. Now, with the addition of The Beauty Base, a new esthetic shop nestled in Suite G on 222 N. El Dorado Street, there’s a new reason to visit downtown: facials! With the adamant belief that, “your natural features are your best features,” The Beauty Base is ready to help you enhance your natural looks through skin, body, and waxing treatments.

Meet Owner Natalie Navarro

At only 21 years old, Natalie Navarro is one of the youngest entrepreneurs to own a brick and mortar business in Downtown Stockton. Despite her age, Natalie has amassed significant experience and training in the field of esthetics. She previously worked as a licensed lash artist, took extensive classes with Dermologica to become an expert with their brand and products, and became licensed as an esthetician in summer of last year after graduating from Paul Mitchell Beauty School in Modesto, California. Natalie shares, “before I became licensed, I always had thoughts of becoming an esthetician but was afraid of spending so much money on something I thought would’ve been just a hobby. But I took that risk and went after being a student at Delta College for two years.” 

After working with different beauty-focused companies like Amazing Lash and being home-based for a period of time, Natalie decided to expand her services to skin treatments and waxing. She received offers to work with other companies, but said they, “never felt right.” Instead, she decided to take the plunge and open her very own brick and mortar. Natalie’s genuine passion and dedication for esthetics shines through as she describes The Beauty Base, and even with her prior experience, she is adamant about, “working to further my education about skin whenever I have the chance to.”

Why Downtown Stockton?

After she decided to open her own shop, Natalie immediately knew she wanted to stay local—after all, she was born and raised in Stockton and lovingly shares that, “Stockton is home.” She adds, “being downtown was a bonus!” While hunting for the perfect home for The Beauty Base, she came across the available space on El Dorado Street and, “instantly fell in love and got the space immediately afterwards. After that I had a blank canvas to work with and I just love how everything came out. I look forward to work every single day and I can’t wait for what’s to come in the future for The Beauty Base!” 

The Downtown area is also very nostalgic for Natalie. She fondly recalls visiting the downtown movie theater with her family while growing up and says, “I would have never thought that I’d have a place over here.” When it comes to the downtown community, she shares, “I just love it. Everyone is so friendly and welcoming.” In October of 2020, the The Beauty Base officially opened its doors!

What Makes Beauty Base Unique?

Not only is The Beauty Base the only esthetics shop in the area, but there are several features that make this particular esthetics shop unique. Along with typical treatments like body/face waxing and facials, Beauty Base also offers Vajacials, which is a Brazilian wax followed by a soothing skin treatment for the area. Natalie shares that many clients have expressed their surprise and delight for this treatment, and that its one of the most popular services they offer.

Additionally, services are very tailored to clients based on their specific needs. Since many clients tend to be unsure about which treatments would work best for them, The Beauty Base will, “formulate a [specific] treatment,” based on their hair and skin type. For instance, The Beauty Base offers various types of wax—some are better for coarse hair, and some are better for fine hair. By offering tailored sessions lasting 30 or 60 minutes, the The Beauty Base eliminates any potential uncertainty and gives clients the best treatment possible. Learn more about their services on their website

Esthetic shops tend to have more female clients, but don’t be shy, men! The Beauty Base is ready to welcome you with open arms for brow waxing, or any other service you’d like!

Favorite Places Downtown to Grab a Bite and a Coffee?

“I’m not biased!” Natalie says with a laugh as she shares that her favorite places to eat and grab coffee are right around the corner from her new shop, just a short walking distance away. Nash + Tender is a favorite for her and her boyfriend, and they find themselves visiting the hot chicken joint, “like crazy,” (we don’t blame them!). Empresso Coffeehouse is their favorite place to get coffee, to the point where it, “feels weird not going there” in the mornings.

Natalie adds that she’s looking forward to trying more eateries downtown, and notes that many of her customers have recommended Misaki to her – luckily, that’s also a short walk away!

Make sure to follow The Beauty Base on Facebook and Instagram to stay updated on specials, services, and to join in on any giveaways they may have in the future. Oh, and don’t forget to visit their website to book your next appointment—gotta look fresh for the holidays! 

Plaza Perks: One of Downtown’s Newest Perks

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Visiting downtown now comes with an additional perk: a new coffee shop in the heart of downtown’s Courthouse Plaza called Plaza Perks! Established by Parents By Choice, a nonprofit agency with the mission of bringing hope and healing to children, youth, and their families, the café does more than serve delicious coffee and refreshing drinks: it provides foster youth with work experience and job opportunities by not only employing them, but by creating and maintaining a positive environment for them to strengthen their work and social skills.

We’re excited for this new addition to the downtown community, so we spoke with Plaza Perks manager, Cynthia Buenrostro, to learn more about the café with a heart for foster youth.  

Meet Cynthia

Cynthia Buenrostro is Plaza Perks’ enthusiastic manager with a passion for helping foster youth. Her previous experiences working in cafés and restaurants made her a perfect fit to manage the new café. She shares that the reason Plaza Perks opened was to, “give former and current foster youth job skills and employment opportunities and to serve up good coffee in the area.” It’s especially important that these opportunities are available for foster youth, because it can be challenging for them to gain work experience and job skills before aging out of the foster care system. Cynthia further explains that they, “need to learn to interact,” and “gain some confidence,” to prepare them for their futures.  

Why Downtown Stockton?

Cynthia believes that Plaza Perks’ presence downtown will, “enrich our community, make a difference,” and, “bring some life to downtown.” However, she admits that prior to the decision to open in Downtown Stockton, she wasn’t too familiar with the area and had no idea what to expect. Fortunately, she quickly realized that she enjoyed “the vibe.” She especially appreciated how supportive and excited the surrounding community was to see a new business opening among them.

Plaza Perks isn’t the only new business to call the Courthouse Plaza home, though. Recently, Parents By Choice also moved their offices and programs into the first and second floors of the building. Learn more about their move here.

What’s On the Menu?

Plaza Perks proudly serves coffee supplied from Cat & Cloud, which they say is, “some of the best quality coffee beans you can find.” Their menu also boasts a variety of options, such as specialty espresso, blended coffee, tea, smoothies and juices, and Lotus drinks. Lotus, Cynthia explains, is a popular drink in the Eastern U.S. that hasn’t yet met widespread popularity in the West- but it’s only a matter of time!

Lotus is a cleaner, healthier energy drink handmade with real fruit juice. Any time you’re feeling tired and in need of some energy (those Monday mornings are the hardest!!), toss out the Red Bull, pop into Plaza Perks, and treat yourself to a Lotus Energy Sparkling Refresher! With flavors like Guava Punch, Pineapple Cloud, Blue Lagoon, and Red Lotus, it’ll be a tough decision (we suggest trying them all!). And oh, did we mention they also have Grab & Go breakfast, lunches, AND a seasonal drink menu (Frankenstein Lotus, anyone?). As if their drinks didn’t already sound like a good enough reason to drop by, Cynthia shares that Plaza Perks emanates a, “really fun environment; we want to make you feel like a friend when you walk in!”

So the next time you’re craving coffee, tea, a Lotus Energy Sparkling Refresher, or even some friendly conversation, pop into Plaza Perks and know that you’re not just supporting local businesses, but local foster youth, too.

Manager Cynthia and Team Leads Sabrina and Margarete
Their new, seasonal drink The Frankenstein Lotus

Don’t forget to follow Plaza Perks on Facebook and Instagram to be the first to know about their new drinks and special offers!