Just off the shores of sunny Hermosa Beach, our headquarters, sits a charming and lively small business popular among local residents. The Green Store, run by Syrian Lana Istwani, is one of the city’s most prized spots and one of the first certified Green businesses in Hermosa Beach. As a supporter of small and artisan businesses, Lana works with vendors to bring their amazing products to customers in the area.

After mourning the loss of her father, Lana began working at The Green Store in 2015 to keep herself busy. At first, she was only there for a short half-hour per day. She fell deeper and deeper in love with the community she found at The Green Store, and Lana now runs the store for upwards of 16 hours per day. Sitting in the heart of Hermosa Beach just steps away from the sand, the store charms both newcomers and local regulars who celebrate Lana’s vibrant and warm personality. 

When I asked Lana how she keeps a work-life balance, she assured me that although she tries to set time aside for herself, there are so many ways she can make changes in the world by creating an uplifting environment for people who come to her store. “It’s a lot of work, but it’s my heart, it’s my soul, it’s my lifeline,” she said.

Lana curates her deli carefully, handpicking only the best products that she believes in. She also gets up early every morning to pick up organic produce herself before going to the store to prepare fresh side dishes for the day, which you can enjoy with a breakfast sandwich on the patio. From European candies, wines and beers from small exclusive wineries and breweries, and high-end kombucha, to artisanal candles and soaps including the Aleppo Soap Bars — these products set The Green Store apart from any other deli or convenience store. If you ever find yourself in the South Bay area, be sure to stop by and support a small business!