Shop Latino! The best local Latino-owned businesses to support this holiday season

Casita Bookstore (Long Beach)  is a hidden gem in the Long Beach community. Shaped like a cozy little house, the shop is easily overlooked, blending seamlessly with the surrounding homes. Inside, however, it offers a vibrant space for books and connection. The store hosts a variety of community events, including Drag Story Hour and an Ugly Holiday Sweater Silent Book Party, fostering a sense of inclusion and creativity.

Owner Antonette Franceschi-Chavez, a passionate advocate for accessible literacy, previously worked at Long Beach’s Billie Jean King Main Library. Her dedication to education is reflected in the bookstore’s welcoming atmosphere, which is filled with a wide selection of Spanish-language children’s books aimed at supporting dual-language learners. With its homey charm and community-focused spirit, Casita Bookstore has quickly become a beloved local institution.

Address: 1440 E 4th St, Long Beach, CA 90802

Instagram: @casitabookstore

Espacio 1839 (Boyle Heights, LA)  is more than just a retail space—it's a vibrant community hub and gallery that stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the neighborhood. In an area grappling with the pressures of gentrification, Espacio 1839 remains a powerful symbol of resistance and cultural pride.

The co-op boutique offers an eclectic mix of art, books and merchandise, while also serving as a versatile venue for community events. At its heart, it is a gathering place that celebrates local artists and designers, with many of its products being one-of-a-kind, handcrafted pieces. Here, visitors can find everything from shirts with references to popular Latino artists, hand-made jewelry and art and rare vinyl records. Espacio 1839 is not just a place to shop; it's a space where culture, art and community intersect, offering a sense of belonging and solidarity in an ever-changing urban landscape.

Address: 1839 E 1st St Los Angeles, CA 90033

Instagram: @espacio1839

Viva La Bonita describes itself as a lifestyle brand inspired by “Latinas and by the women who are fearless.” Founded by Rachel Gomez, the Latinx-owned streetwear apparel draws inspiration from the strength and resilience of Latinas and women who refuse to be silenced. Primarily an online venture, Viva La Bonita offers a vibrant collection of apparel and accessories, from t-shirts and sweaters to handbags and hats.

Known for its bold, contemporary designs, the brand’s merchandise often features playful and empowering phrases like "Allergic to Pendejadas" and "Mija, the World is Yours." With its striking colors and modern, inclusive style, Viva La Bonita resonates with a younger, socially conscious audience, making it a standout in the growing movement of Latina-owned businesses that blend cultural pride with cutting-edge fashion.

Viva La Bonita is more than just a clothing brand; it’s a celebration of Latina empowerment and fearless femininity.

Address: Online store

Instagram: @vivalabonita