Artists and Artisans in the Marina -- From Pottery to Street Art

Marina del Rey’s history is full of engineers and enigmatic businessmen, fishermen and the Federal Government. It was always the Marina’s colorful neighbor to the north, Venice, which attracted the hippies and drums, poets and guitars. Yet, with its shimmering water and enviable architecture, Marina del Rey now stands on its own as a place that harbors artists and artisans alike.




FINE ART

In Fisherman’s Village to the South, Howard Marchese recently opened Marchese Fine Art Gallery, a space specializing in Southern California artists. Marchese's reason for opening his gallery was to focus on the fine array of artists that are based in Southern California. Howard Marchese studied the great impressionist masters at the Mission Renaissance Academy in Hollywood. He settled in Marina del Rey nearly a decade ago and now teaches and hosts workshops at his new gallery.

SCULPTURE

Near Marchese, Alixandra Pottery opened this summer. Owner Alix Cunningham has been spinning her pottery wheels for years and considers it a meditative practice suitable for both children and adults. Her small shop showcases her work, from rustic platters to stately bowls, and also hosts pottery classes for everyone aged 2 to 92.


PHOTOGRAPHY

Photographer Caryson is based in Los Angeles, but visits the coasts and waterways of the city for inspiration. In his Reflections in Venice Grand Canal, he shows a moody side of the Marina. With its grey reflections, it reminds one of winter.


Greg Wenger has been taking professional photographs in Marina del Rey for many years. Without him, we wouldn’t have some of our earliest photos of the Marina as he helped preserve many of Marina del Rey's earliest photographs. Based in the Marina, he often finds artistic inspiration around him on and off the water. Wenger’s photographic range extends into portraiture as well, making him a sought after celebrity photographer.


STREET ART

Popularized by international sensations like Banksy, Shepard Fairey and Mr. Brainwash, street art is more than just graffiti. Photographs of it are the only way this temporary but vivid and well-exposed artwork survives. Artists working in the Marina frequently spot their share of these clever and quirky images, adding life and personality to every day public structures.

Mixing a Drink or Officiating a Wedding, Fran Adams is Marina del Rey’s Biggest Fan

The Ritz-Carlton Marina del Rey straddles the line between contemporary elegance and approachable ease. The hospitality is warm, the standards are high. At its signature restaurant, jer-ne, the bar is the main attraction. Both locals and international travelers spend late afternoons and late nights at its high-backed, plush leather stools. The difference between jer-ne’s bar and the bar down the street is not just its proximity to the water (100 yards away) or high end bar snacks (think: truffled fries) – it’s a bartender named Fran.

Frances Adams has been working behind jer-ne’s bar for exactly 14 years this month. She’s a former Second City performer from the Midwest who’s adopted the Marina as her permanent home; her personal and work email handle is “windymarina.” A few years ago, good friends of hers who were also co-workers, asked if she would consider becoming a minister to marry them. She did, and has since married seven couples in the Marina – all of them had been regulars at her bar. Recently, we sat down with Fran to talk drinks and share stories about the Marina.

Q: How long have you been a bartender?

A: Since I was 18. I’m originally from Milwaukee and I’m a 4^th generation bartender. My father was an outstanding bartender. His father was the most famous bartender in Milwaukee. My great-grandfather was a horrible bartender, my great-great grandfather was also an excellent bartender, so they say.

Q: Where in town do you live?

A: In the Marina, in Mariner’s Village. When I first moved to LA, I thought it would be a good place to start but I love it. I love the fog and the cool mornings, sweaters and fireplaces. If I never see another humid Midwestern summer I will be happy.

Q: What’s your favorite water activity in town?

A: I’m not much of a water person, but I do love being on boats. I love the Marina’s $1 water taxi in the summer. I take it every weekend on my way to doing my grocery shopping at Nick’s Grocery Store. Mike and Michele own it; it’s right off the beach. You’d think it was a little bodega but they have a great wine selection, unique frozen foods too.

Q: What’s the most popular cocktail at Jer-ne?

A: The Vodka Martini. We also have a really beautiful single malt scotch collection. Scotch lovers know us pretty well.

Q: What’s your favorite drink to make?

A: It’s also our signature drink, the #14. It’s a cocktail I created for a guest who stayed with us for a full summer. He’s an NBA Player, Anthony Mason. That year, he was training and looking to get a contract. All summer long, he wouldn’t drink because he was training, but he fantasized about drinks and would come and sit at my bar and ask me what kind of drink I would make for him once he was signed and the summer came to an end. I thought about it and made him a drink that tastes like summer, with pineapple and passion fruit. At the end of that summer, he signed the biggest contract of his career. He comes back to visit his lucky place every year – it’s been 10 years since I created that drink – and now there’s a #14 ½ -- he has a son who also plays basketball! We added coconut to the #14 for that one.

Q: What are some of your favorite places in the Marina(besides Jer-ne)?

A: Tony P’s. I love Tony. He’s the unofficial mayor of Marina del Rey. I love him as my neighbor, he’s just so gracious and he’s a wonderful host.

I’m addicted to Mendocino Farms, I send all of our guests there. They all come back raving about it.

I also always find great things at Beverage Warehouse – I could spend a day in there, just looking at everything!

Q: What else so you love about the Marina?

A: I love that at my bar I have regulars, but they’re not all locals. I have regulars that come from San Francisco every other week who know the regulars that come from New York once a month who know the regulars that come from down the street. Marina del Rey is a great neighborhood because you always feel like a local, even if you’re not from the city…

On the Water: Kayak Attack

This summer, think of the Marina as a tall glass of water. Simple and refreshing, it’s the best way to cool down when temperatures climb above 75F. There are dozens of water activities – from paddle-boarding to sailing – to partake in, but lately we’re partial to kayaking.

Like a romantic gondola’s slick cousin, the kayak is a great way to travel around the Marina, see the sights and sunset, and get a work-out all at the same time. Why slave away in a stuffy indoor gym when you can take a personal breezy boat ride on the Marina?

While kayaking has a reputation as being a fast water sport, on the Marina, it’s a relaxing way to while away an afternoon. Go with a partner and take turns taking in the sites and paddling. Bring a waterproof camera to capture the views digitally too!

Kayaking is great for groups too. Recently, we talked to newlywed and local resident Otto Rose and owner Russ Carrington of Action Watersports about the kayaking bachelor party they hosted last summer.

What gave you the idea to host a kayaking bachelor party? It was actually Russ's idea. I live in C basin and the idea made sense...not much driving, very low cost, giving local businesses our business.

What bars/restaurants did you stop at? Which were your favorites and why? We stopped at Chart House, Del Rey YachtClub, and finished at the California Yacht Club (CYC)...the first two were good. Classy and good food.

What is the craziest thing that happened during the party? We met God...some guy at the DRYC gave me a biz card that introduced himself as GOD. He was a bit weird but made things interesting.

Any plans to try a new water sport like say, paddle boarding? No plans, I am pretty active with most water sports...my new wife wants to surf though.

What three words would best describe your experience? Camaraderie, tranquillo, healthy.

Would you recommend an Action Water Sports adventure to other grooms-to-be? Absolutely, everyday, all day.

Rent kayaks right in the Marina at these convenient businesses:

Action Watersports

http://www.actionwater.com/

4144 Lincoln Boulevard, Marina del Rey

(310) 827-2233

Marina Boat Rentals

boats4rent.com

13719 Fiji Way, Marina del Rey

(located at Fisherman's Village)

(310) 574-2822

53 Incredible Things To Do in Marina del Rey

Spend the next 53 hours with us in Marina del Rey! Avoid the 405 freeway closure and other highways; instead, run, walk, bus or bike in Marina del Rey!

Click here for: 53 Incredible Things to do in Marina del Rey this weekend! 

Where To Enjoy Mother's Day in Marina del Rey

With Mother’s Day just around the corner, finding the perfect way to celebrate Moms becomes an ever-important task. For those looking to do something fun, fresh and different for their M-O-M, check out Marina del Rey!

Here’s a check list of why choosing Marina del Rey will make Mom feel even more special!

Let’s see…views of the water? Check!

Outdoor dining with sunshine? Check!

Gorgeous boats and yachts docked in the marina? Check!

A chance to breathe in the fresh ocean air? Check!  

What are you waiting for? Check out some of the fun, unique options below and then get planning – don’t forget, the holiday falls on May 8 this year!

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Dine

·    Dine on-the-water with a special brunch or dinner aboard a Hornblower Cruise. The Mother’s Day Champagne Brunch Cruise explores the harbor for two hours with a brunch buffet, private tables, live entertainment, scenic coastal views, free flowing champagne and sparkling cider, complimentary soft drinks, juice, coffee and tea. The dinner cruise offers live DJ and dancing, gorgeous sunset views, private tables and boarding glass of champagne. Reservations required.

·    A local favorite, Tony P’s Dockside Grill offers a Mother’s Day full of excitement with a lively brunch buffet, from 9:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. including an array of breakfast items as well as specialties.  Reservations recommended.

·    Café del Rey hosts an amazing three-course brunch from 10:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. (Saturday & Sunday) that includes champagne or mimosas. Live music and a special craft for the kids will keep everyone in the group happy. Reservations recommended.

·    Warehouse Restaurant, a Marina del Rey landmark, will offer a special Mother’s Day Brunch Buffet that will include champagne or mimosas from 9 a.m. through 4 p.m. Reservations recommended.

·    The Ritz Carlton, Marina del Rey's sophisticated dining lounge, jer-ne, hosts a lovely Mother’s Day Champagne Brunch Buffet with two seatings, 11:00 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. Reservations recommended.

·    Enjoy Mother’s Day at Vū Restaurant with their special fixed price three-course menu, featuring free-flowing blood orange mimosas, soft drinks and coffee or tea. Their a la carte menu will also be available. Reservations recommended.

·    Spend quality family time in the casual elegance at Stones Restaurant,located at the Marina del Rey Marriott. From 10 a.m. through noon, Stones will offer a Mother’s Day Champagne Brunch Buffet. Reservations recommended. 

·    With a reputation for great views and fantastic brunch options, Shanghai Red’s will offer a Mother’s Day Champagne Brunch on both Saturday (10 a.m. – 3 p.m.) and Sunday (9 a.m. – 3 p.m.) complete with a wonderful selection of foods including homemade waffles, omelets made to order and succulent crab legs. Reservations recommended.

Relax

·    Creative Chakra Spa celebrates mom with specials including Chocolate & Roses for Mom, Mother’s Day Massage and Facial and Mom & Others retreats for two. Reservations required.

·    At Massage Envy, mom can upgrade her relaxing massage to include the healing powers of its Vibrant AromaTherapy blend for an additional $10. Reservations required.

Play

·    Not up for braving the restaurant scene this Mother’s Day? Try renting a jet-ski, standup paddleboard or a Duffy for the entire family at Marina Boat Rentals. Reservations recommended.

Get into the Spirit of the Royal Wedding

Whether you are DVR'ing the ceremony or getting up at 2 a.m. to watch Kate Middleton walk down the aisle to marry Prince William on April 29, 2011 (which by the way is a 4-minute walk before she reaches the altar at Westminster Abbey!), here are some fun ways to get into the spirit of the royal wedding festivities. You don’t have to be in London to take part but you can certainly enjoy the magic of it all on your own:

1. Start off the day by enjoying house eggs benedict with homemade biscuits and black forest ham at Vū Restaurant located at the Jamaica Bay Inn.
   
2. Wear a stylish feather or fedora-style hat a-la Kate Middleton. Or better yet, wear a replica of Princess Di’s engagement ring (cubic zirconium of course) to truly embrace Kate’s style. Check out Charla’s Place to pick up the costume hats and jewelry!
3. Tea time can be enjoyed at the Ritz-Carlton Marina del Rey. Sit in the lobby lounge with a view of the marina and enjoy a little English Breakfast or Earl Grey tea.
4. Relive the original concept of Prince William’s stag party (aka bachelor party) -- according to reports, it was supposed to be a water-sports themed day on the English Channel. Rent jet-skis or a power boat at Marina Boat Rentals.
5. Finish off the historic day by sitting inside the large tavern at Tony P’s Dockside Grill where you can toast the newlyweds with a pint of hand-crafted beers such as Young’s Double Chocolate Stout (crafted by Wells & Young’s Brewery, Bedford, UK) or Samuel Smith’s Oatmeal Stout (crafted by Samuel Smith Old Brewery, Tadcaster, UK).

Send us some pics if you are having a viewing party! And of course, happy Wedding Day! 

 

Photo credit: Mario Testino. Telegraph UK.

10 Things to Consider when Planning your Outdoor Wedding

Everyone knows the first rule for planning weddings and commitment ceremonies: location, location, location. And, whether you’re a local who enjoys an ocean view from home or work or a bride-to-be who rarely sees the ocean all year, an outdoor wedding venue with a waterfront view is a wedding dream come true.

Did you know that Marina del Rey plays host to more than 600 weddings each year? Sure, we’d venture to say that we’re experts. Our very own wedding planners weigh in on how to plan the perfect outdoor wedding without any surprises on the big day.

1. Let nature set the scene. By having your wedding outdoors, you are not only securing a venue but also a breathtaking, natural environment. “Brides tend to forget that the outdoor scenery is stunning enough for guests… brides and their coordinators should merely enhance their natural scenery by adding simple touches, like smaller, personalized centerpieces for the reception and minimal décor at the ceremony,” said Patrick Rafferty, social specialist at Hornblower Cruises & Events, Marina del Rey.

2. Embrace a One-Stop-Shop. Having an in-house wedding coordinator on your team will minimize surprises and ensure your big day goes smoothly. Be sure to look into what services and arrangements are available at the venue you have selected. At the California Yacht Club in Marina del Rey, for example, an expert coordinator can take care of your every last wish.

3. Track the forecast. The weather isn’t always very considerate. Thankfully when planning for a wedding in Marina del Rey, forecast isn’t your number one concern. The Marina boasts year-round temperate weather with light breezes and some sun, reducing the chances of wet or scorching hot surprises.

4. Choose a Venue to Match Your Style. Sure, weddings on the beach often evoke images of flip flops, Hawaiian shirts and sandy toes. But, have you considered venues off the sand that might fit your dream style – whether it’s vintage wedding on the lush hillside of Burton W. Chace Park or an elegant wedding with top-notch service at The Ritz-Carlton, Marina del Rey?

5. Offer something for everyone. When guests receive an invitation to an outdoor wedding destination, the first thing to cross their mind: where to stay nearby the wedding venue and within their budget. “In Marina del Rey, there truly is something for everyone,” said Janet Luna, Director of Event Planning at Marina del Rey Marriott. “Every price point can be accommodated. From room nights under $100 to luxury accommodations, it’s important that brides give every guest an opportunity to fully celebrate the big event. ”

6. Consider everyone. Your wedding is a huge affair with people coming from all walks of life. Make sure to keep everyone in mind when planning your outdoor wedding—from Baby Niece to Great Grandpa. Consider tents or paper umbrellas to shield the guests from the sun and have iced water on hand. If you really want the ceremony to be in the open, perhaps hold your reception indoors so all can share in your love.

7. Create plans convenient for travel. When planning rehearsal dinners, bridal brunches, or even bachelor and bachelorette parties at destination weddings, minimize complications by planning them near the location of the wedding ceremony. Marina del Rey offers a host of restaurants, bars and lounges within a one mile stretch to host all your wedding-related celebrations.

8. Don’t forget the paperwork. Though perhaps the least exciting of all wedding preparations, obtaining the proper licensing is key to securing the date and facilities for your wedding. At Burton W. Chace Park, for example, a permit must be acquired for all events. Visit the Los Angeles Department of Beaches & Harbors website at labeaches.info for more information.

9. Keep the sendoff in style. When planning your send-off, consider a bridal getaway on a luxurious sailboat. Why not take advantage of the water? “In recent years, we have seen this sendoff style become more popular with couples looking to make a lasting impression on guests,” said Stephanie Ginzburg, senior events producer at FantaSea Yachts & Yacht Club.

10. Leave it to the experts. Have you talked your local CVB about their recommendations? The CVB is a great place to begin your planning because they’ve seen weddings at all venues – and can recommend the best place to fit your dreams. Check out Marina del Rey’s site for weddings and to request a free wedding planning package.

December 2010: Marina del Rey FEATURED LOCAL - Peter Ellis

For our December edition of our Featured Local blog series, we’re introducing you to the face of a Marina Holiday favorite tradition: this year’s winner of the Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade, Peter Ellis. Enjoy our holiday-inspired posting and interview with Peter.

Remember: Each month, we feature a Marina del Rey local to give you a peek into the Marina’s many diverse, one-of-a-kind personalities. If you have someone you’d like us to consider featuring here, please drop us a note!

Name: Peter Ellis

Years Participated in the Boat Parade: Sporadically since 1992

What makes the holiday season so special in Marina del Rey?: When you drive down the street in the Marina, you can’t help but feel the holiday cheer. From the lighted houses and ornamented shops, to the decorated street and boats with lights ablaze, Marina Del Rey is a pleasant reprieve in the middle of an otherwise hectic holiday shopping season. (We swear – he wrote that himself!)

How did you prepare for this year’s Boat Parade?: No matter how long we plan, we never seem to be fully prepared for the parade. As soon as the theme “A Rock ‘N Roll Christmas” was announced, we began to float ideas (no pun intended). We decided, who better than The King of Rock and Roll to lead a Rock ‘N Roll Christmas? So, with that, our primary objective was to create the “Big Elvis,” which was the oversized Elvis made of Christmas lights. On the day of the parade, we still had a number of items to complete before show time so, as a team, we worked together and had the boat ready just in time.

Any behind the scenes drama that we don’t know about?: There was a water skiing Santa Claus in the works, but he wasn’t ready in time for the parade.

Tell us a bit more about what appealed to the judges about your boat?: Well, the major concept behind our boat design was that the large “Elvis Rocks” sign would be switched by an animated elf to read “Elves Rock.” The boat was filled with live, singing elves and Elvises. In the spirit of the holidays, I really think the judges enjoyed the humor behind the design.

If Elvis were to come back to life for the parade, what would you tell him?: Of course, I would let him know that he is still The King (and that he, and elves, rock!). I would then take him to dinner after the parade, his choice, as he was always keen on finding the best eateries– which the Marina is known for. I reckon he’d be particularly fond of The Counter and Warehouse Restaurant.

Marina del Rey Is (Finish the Sentence): An oasis in an otherwise hectic world. (We couldn’t agree more!)

Okay – enough about the parade! What else do you love about the Marina year-round?: I’m an active participant in the boating community of the Marina, and enjoy the many opportunities to get on the water from the Marina. And, I love the many great restaurants across the city – from Fisherman’s Village to Admiralty Way, there are so many great options. 

Thanks, Peter, for being the Marina’s own rock star for more than 15 years. On behalf of the community, we thank you and all of the boat parade participants for making the holiday season so special in Marina del Rey. If you’d like to get in touch with Peter, send a note to our team at marinadelreycvb@gmail.com and we’ll make sure to share your feedback with Peter. Or, nominate someone for a future featured post.

Happy Holidays to All!

Marina del Rey Celebrates New Year With Fireworks and More

Marina del Rey New Year’s Eve Fireworks – Friday, Dec 31 midnight
Fireworks can be seen from most hotels and restaurants in the Marina.
Other popular viewing spots are Fisherman’s Village, Burton W. Chace Park and Marina Beach
Marina del Rey Visitors Center 310-305-9545 or e-mail info@VisitMarinaDelRey.com

Celebrate the New Year in the Marina!
Cafe del Rey
4451 Admiralty Way
310-823-6395
Celebrate New Year’s Eve with two seatings; 5:30 p.m. ($65 per person) and 8:30 p.m. (3-course pre fixe menu and champagne toast, $95 per person), both with holiday music.


Glow Bar – Marina del Rey Marriott
4100 Admiralty Way
310-301-3000
Exciting New Year’s Eve “Times Square” theme party. Live entertainment, ball drop and house music. Complimentary midnight champagne toast. Doors open at 8:30 p.m. $30 per person; free for hotel guests.


Hornblower Cruises & Events
13755 Fiji Way, Fisherman’s Village
310-301-6000
Hornblower’s popular New Year’s Eve Cocktail Cruise boards at 10 p.m., cruising from 10:30 p.m. - 1 a.m. at $99 per person, plus tax. Includes appetizers, glass of champagne and live DJ & dancing. The New Year’s Eve Dinner Gala boards at 8:30 p.m., cruising from 9 p.m. - 1 a.m., at $150 per person, plus tax. Includes a four-course prix fixe dinner, glass of champagne and live DJ & dancing.


Jer-ne Restaurant + Bar – The Ritz-Carlton, Marina del Rey
4375 Admiralty Way
310-823-1700
New Year’s Eve Dinner will have three seatings, beginning at 6 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. for an $85 three-course prix fixe. And the New Year will be brought in with a special 9 p.m. five-course meal for $115 per person. Add champagne pairings, featuring Moet, for an additional $45.


Shanghai Red’s Restaurant
13813 Fiji Way
310-823-4522
New Year’s Eve Buffet begins at 7:30 p.m.-1:30 a.m. with live DJ & dancing, party favors and midnight champagne toast. $65 per person in public seating area, $80 for private seating. Pre-paid reservations required. Special New Year’s Day Brunch Buffet from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., $55/adults, $13 kids (6-12).


Tony P’s Dockside Grill & Tavern
4445 Admiralty Way
310-823-4534 Annual New Year’s Eve Party in the Tavern. Live DJ, light snacks & beverages, party favors and midnight balloon drop. $10 per person with regular dinner purchase, $20 without.


Vū Restaurant & Bar
14160 Palawan Way
310-439-3033
Special dining service and festivities throughout December in the marina’s newest waterside hotspot. Vu offers an 8-course "Exploration of Vu" ($75) in addition to their a la carte menu. Call for reservations.

Warehouse Restaurant
4499 Admiralty Way
310-823-5451
Special events planned for New Year’s Eve. Call for details and reservations.

Waterfront Bar & Grill – Marina del Rey Hotel
13534 Bali Way
310-301-1000
Special events planned for New Year’s Eve. Call for details.

Special!!!!! New Year Whale Watching and Sea Life Cruise!!!!
The ocean is alive with dolphins, porpoises, sea birds, sea lions and whales!
On January 1 and January 2, Marina del Rey Sportfishing will be offering 2 special whale watching and sealife tours at 10 a.m. both days. The three-hour cruise costs $25 for adults (discounts for kids). Cash only. Departs from Dock 52 on Fiji Way (free parking). Reservations needed. Call 310-822-3625.