Today we’d like to introduce you to Leanna Lin.
Leanna, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I studied Visual Arts and Fashion Design and have always loved art, fashion, photography, architecture, and anything Japanese since I was a kid … maybe it all started with Sanrio!
While I was a designer for the junior dress industry for 10+ years, I also created my own jewelry collection on the side. I went to indie handmade shows to shop and sell my own line, while meeting tons of talented artists and designers. I collected their cards and eventually decided to open my own shop/gallery, after getting laid off from my corporate design job when the economy was at its lowest.
So here I am!
Has it been a smooth road?
It hasn’t been smooth road, but I’ve been lucky with a strong team and loyal customers. Being located in a smaller, sleepier town is rough for foot traffic. I would say that’s one of the biggest struggles, along with keeping up with the latest technology.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
Leanna Lin’s Wonderland specializes in indie brands, artists and designers. A big portion of the shop are LA and California based companies. The shop is curated with my own personal style in mind, so everything that goes in here has a feeling of whimsy and fun. I love it when customers come in and immediately get transformed to a “happy place” and are able to find unique gifts for themselves and others.
Is our city a good place to do what you do?
Los Angeles is very competitive, but there are so many great small businesses to eat, drink, shop, play, etc. I do feel like it’s so big and spread out, so there’s always room for more awesome businesses. On the flip side, it is expensive and you can also do this type of business in a smaller up-and-coming city. The competition won’t be as tough then.
Contact Info:
- Address: 5024 Eagle Rock Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90041 - Website: www.leannalinswonderland.com
- Phone: 323-550-1332
- Email: hello@leannalinswonderland.com
Image Credit: Emma Goo (photo of me and the dogs) and Herb West for the featured image at the top of the article.
