Merchants Association

SAN DIEGO – As part of an ongoing effort to provide a livable wage for workers, the City of San Diego’s minimum wage is set to increase in the new year. Effective Jan. 1, 2026, employees who perform at least two hours of work in one or more calendar weeks of the year within the…

“Know Your Rights” Workshop Coming to La Jolla Running a small business is hard enough. Between managing staff, juggling costs, and keeping customers happy, the last thing any business owner should have to worry about is being shut down by government overreach—especially when you’re doing everything right. But after the recent ICE raid in South…

RSVP Today and mark your calendar — Tuesday, from 6:00–8:00 PM—because Next Gen La Jolla is coming together in the most delicious way! Our community of young professionals has been building momentum and this end-of-summer soirée is shaping up to be our best yet. What’s in store: Savory Creations – MarketPlace Grille, is bringing a…

The latest hospitality numbers are in—and La Jolla Coastal continues to prove why it’s one of Southern California’s most sought-after destinations. Between August 3 and August 9, travelers booked 376,079 room nights across the San Diego region. La Jolla stood out with an impressive 85.2% occupancy rate, placing us in the top three submarkets, behind…

The La Jolla Village Merchants Association is proud to share its Fiscal Year 2024–25 Annual Report, highlighting continued financial strength and progress across three core pillars: Organizational Excellence, Merchant Engagement, and Marketing & Events. Over the past year, La Jolla Village came alive with hundreds of events, live performances, and community festivals—both in the heart…

Chances are you’re leaving promotional opportunities on the table.  The La Jolla Village Merchants Association offers its members many ways to save time, find solutions and spread the word about your business.  Now, as we make our way out of the pandemic, take advantage of these free benefits. Here are seven free ways to instantly…

2025 promises to be an outstanding year in La Jolla Village, and the LJVMA is ready to help you reach your goals, whether they pertain to promotions, collaboration, or volunteerism. There are numerous monthly opportunities for businesses to engage: Membership and Board meetings occur on the third Wednesday of each month. These sessions are an…

Beginning January 1, 2022, employees who perform at least two (2) hours of work in one workweek within the City of San Diego must be paid wages of not less than $17.25 per hour for all hours worked within the City’s geographic boundaries. San Diego’s Earned Sick Leave and Minimum Wage Ordinance, San Diego Municipal…

The La Jolla Village Merchants Association is proud to present its Fiscal Year 2023-24 Annual Report, showcasing our financial fitness and key achievements in Organizational Excellence, Merchant Engagement, and Marketing/Events. La Jolla hosted hundreds of events, live performances, and festivals in the Village and at the Cove. Staying true to our mission—”We bring business to…

We are excited to announce that the La Jolla Village Merchants Association (LJVMA) will have a promotional booth at the San Diego County Fair! Our booth will feature friendly staff, engaging games, and contests to draw in visitors and build our contact list. Your business can get involved by providing gift cards (even $10 gift…

Get ready to elevate your professional journey, connect with like-minded individuals, and make waves in La Jolla’s vibrant business scene.  We’re thrilled to announce the first gathering of NextGen La Jolla on April 4, 2024 from 5 PM to 7 PM at LIK Fine Art Gallery, 1205 Prospect St.  The goal is to create a…

Are you ready to elevate your professional journey, connect with like-minded individuals, and make waves in La Jolla’s vibrant business scene? Look no further! We’re thrilled to introduce NextGen La Jolla – the go-to networking group for young professionals seeking growth, collaboration, and community in our beautiful coastal village. What is NextGen La Jolla? NextGen…

The dawn of 2024 marks a transformative year for LJVMA under its new leadership, as we unveil a host of initiatives set to elevate our community. Get ready for an array of thrilling events and groundbreaking partnerships that promise to make this year truly special. The NextGen Program is at the forefront of our endeavors.…

We are excited to invite you to our inaugural business breakfast event of the year. It is an excellent opportunity for professionals and entrepreneurs to come together and network in a relaxed and informal setting. During the breakfast, you will have the chance to connect with like-minded individuals who share your passion for business and…

Visit California, the state’s official travel and tourism organization is on a mission to enhance and elevate the travel experience for both visitors and residents alike. They have embarked on an exciting process to create Regional Tourism Strategic Plans (RTSP) for all 12 regions across the state including San Diego. Your voice can play a…

After analyzing the suggestions, comments and responses of 65 surveys, LJVMA Inter Kalo Grimsby has created some insightful analysis that will guide the LJMVA board of directors as they create their 2024 Strategic Plan. Key findings include: Top Issues Facing Merchants Attracting customers in the off-season Marketing, Branding and Promotions Lack of foot traffic Parking…

Opinions, ideas and feedback are crucial to any organization.  Each year La Jolla Village Merchants Assocation surveys its members to find out how we can better serve and communicate your needs to your board, committees and elected officials.  Please take 5 – 7 minutes to complete this survey so that your voice can be heard. …

Running for a seat on a board of directors is an important decision and involves guiding and making decisions for an organization, whether it’s a corporation, nonprofit, community group, or other entity. The La Jolla Village Merchants Association Board is a passionate group of business owners, managers and leaders.  Our mission, “We bring business to…

La Jolla Village Merchants Association is proud to present its Fiscal Year 2022 – 23 Annual Report that includes our financial statement and highlights in four main areas: Organizational Excellence, Design and Beautification, Merchant Engagement, and Marketing/Events.  The first full year following the COVID pandemic brought hundreds of events, live performances and festivals to La…

A podcast where SDG&E delves into the complex and sometimes confusing world of utilities. Experts from SDG&E will uncover the mysteries of our energy systems, explore new solutions for everyday problems and provide unique insights into the industry that powers our lives. So, plug in and power up with us as we explore the mysteries…

Record-breaking heat waves have become a staple of summers in America. Those hardest hit are the most vulnerable – seniors, young children and people with chronic health conditions. Extreme heat kills more people in the United States than any other weather hazard. Extreme heat events in the United States are expected to become even more…

If you did NOT get a chance to see the excellent coverage from CBS8 (almost 20 total minutes of live broadcasting showing off our beautiful galleries and event) here are the links to take a look.  CBS 8’s Chief Meteorologist Karlene Chavis and anchor Jesse Pagan spent over four hours in the village with two…

With the help of La Jolla’s community groups including the Sierra Club Seal Society, La Jolla Village has a brand new, colorful map featuring its most popular attractions from cultural and performing arts venues to trailheads and parks.  Of course, the map includes the best places to catch a look at seals and sea lions…

Food delivery services such as Uber Eats, Door Dash and Postmates may offer convenience; but they also charge restaurants up to 30% commission on every order.  Customers, too, end up paying a service or delivery fee often adding over 50% to the meal costs. Famished.io has selected LJVMA as its launch partner for a brand…

The City of San Diego will be doing major repairs and upgrades to streets throughout La Jolla. The work which began earlier this month continues the week of April 25. While no one likes street closures and traffic disruptions, the benefits far outway the temporary inconvenience.  Over the past few weeks, repairs have been done…

If you love the arts, you’ll be happy to hear that next year’s 2024 City of San Diego draft budget includes increased arts and culture funding. But, the budget is not finalized. It is being reviewed by various council committees which look to the public for feedback, support and priorities. If you are an artist…

Most polystyrene foam products (including food service ware) will be prohibited from distribution in the City of San Diego, and prohibited from use on City property, including parks and beaches. Additionally, plastic and bio-plastic straws and utensils may only be distributed to customers upon request. Make sure your business is prepared and that your staff…

Recently Mayor Todd Gloria held a press conference to specifically discuss plans to deal with Infrastructure issues in the City of San Diego.  You can watch the video as the Mayor provides significant updates to the state of our infrastructure including, road, sidewalk, and streetlight repair. Here is a summary: STREETLIGHTS Right now, our backlog…

La Jolla Village Merchants Association has custom created a jigsaw puzzle for anyone who lives, works, plays or loves La Jolla.  This 1000 pieces puzzle will keep you and your family busy this holiday season as you gather ’round for egg nog, cookies and holiday cheer. When it comes to gift-giving, jigsaw puzzles continue to…

Over 100 businesses completed the La Jolla Village Merchants Association’s merchant survey offering valuable information to create and update this year’s strategic plan. Key findings include: Top Issues Facing Merchants Parking Lack of foot traffic Staffing Opportunities No one can take away our most popular attractions (Sea Lions, Sunsets, Seals) Website education and engagement Events…

La Jolla Village Merchants Association is proud to present its Fiscal Year 2021-2022 Annual Report which includes our financial statement and highlights in four main areas: Organizational Excellence, Design and Beautification, Merchant Engagement, and Marketing/Events.  A year that included both a COVID surge and a return to a new normal; we are proud of our…

Looking for ways to save on your SDG&E bill at your office? Here are some helpful business energy-saving tips leaving you with more budget for other expenses or to improve occupant comfort. Raise your thermostat a few degrees. Did you know office building HVAC systems consume up to 40 percent of energy bills? Turn temperatures up…

Sign up for statewide Flex Alert notifications and help strengthen the grid Did you know a Flex Alert is a call to conserve energy? An alert is triggered by the California ISO when the grid is stressed. The alert helps prevent rotating outages when everyone works together. Sign up for Flex Alert notifications so you…

After a year-long process that involved selecting the perfect artwork, manufacturers, distribution and marketing strategy, La Jolla Village Merchants Association is thrilled to announce the arrival of its jigsaw puzzle.  The artwork, created by Los Angeles Artist, Rachel Siegel, depicts over 20 attractions and icons unique to La Jolla. From cove kiyakers to seals and…

June gloom is behind us which means summer’s hottest days are ahead.  Summer heat waves can drive up the temperature – and your business’s energy use.  Now is the perfect time to set your business up for summer energy savings success. Here are some tips to get started: Know the details of your SDG&E energy…

Help make California’s energy grid stronger, safer and more reliable for all Californians this summer – and get paid for it too! The Power Saver Rewards program rewards you for lowering your electricity use when energy is in high demand. This summer, it pays to be flexible. Here is how it works. Increased demand for…

On Tuesday, June 28, at 10 a.m., the Development Services Department (DSD) will host a webinar on Spaces as Places. Staff will provide an overview of the new program and address common questions about application requirements for a streetary, promenade, active sidewalk or outdoor dining on private property. The webinar will be hosted using Zoom,…

To help you stay up to date with upcoming news and events, La Jolla Village Merchants Association President Amber Anderson has created an abbreviated, fun, and informative re-cap of business news and village events.  While nothing compares to face-to-face networking, we hope these virtual meeting summaries help you connect and engage in a new way. …

LOWER ENERGY USE IN YOUR PLACE OF BUSINESS  Did you know that, according to energystar.gov, the top energy consumers in a typical office are lighting, cooling and computers? Here are some ideas to help you save on your business’s energy use. Save on cooling: Cooling (and heating) makes up about 40% of the energy used…

The rising cost of energy is straining a lot of Southern California households. SDG&E hears your concerns and wants you to know what you are paying for. Supplying power to the community includes the cost of energy production, delivering that energy, plus the costs of building and maintaining infrastructure that ensures clean, safe and reliable…

You’re encouraged to attend an online meeting: Our County, Our Budget, Our Future: District 3 Community Meeting hosted by  County Supervisor Terra Lawson-Remer and staff. Via this online meeting we have a chance to help allocate more than $7 billion. J During this forum, you will learn about the proposed budget and opportunities to provide…

La Jolla is a very busy place, especially in the summer!  To help ease traffic and access to our village and coastline, The City of San Diego Annual Beach Area Construction Restriction limits non-emergency construction work during the summer period, minimizing impacts on beach area businesses and residents. The summer period is considered to extend…

“Microbusinesses” around San Diego County hurt by COVID-19 can now officially begin applying online for $2,500 grants. The County Board of Supervisors last week approved making 1,550 grants totaling $3.8 million, funded in part by the California Office of the Small Business Advocate, to some of the smallest businesses in the county, like home businesses and…

Could Your Business Use a Facelift?  Storefront Improvement Program is Back!  The City of San Diego has just announced the return of its popular Storefront Improvement Program (SIP) which “revitalizes building facades visible to customers, neighboring merchants and residents. The City of San Diego provides free professional design assistance and financial incentives to small business owners…

It sounds like success! In conjunction with one of the nation’s leaders in gift card campaigns, La Jolla Village Merchants Association is exploring the idea of a branded gift card that could be used at any participating restaurant, shop, salon, spa, or business.  It will be marketed as the perfect gift for anyone planning a…

Beginning January 1, 2022, employees who perform at least two (2) hours of work in one workweek within the geographic boundaries of the City of San Diego must be paid wages of not less than $15.00 per hour for all hours worked within the City’s geographic boundaries. San Diego’s Earned Sick Leave and Minimum Wage…

This winter don’t let the cold sneak up on your energy bill. SDG&E can help with energy-saving programs and tips to help keep your business’s energy costs low – and that makes a difference for your bottom line. Lower the temperature. Your business can keep comfortable without cranking up the heat. Adjust your thermostat by…

Here are some tips to stay safe and save money this holiday season: LED holiday lights are the way to go! They use up to 80% less energy and are brighter, safer, more durable and last longer than traditional light strings. They’re easier to install too – up to 24 strings of LEDs can be…

Energy-saving tips for small businesses  According to the EPA’s ENERGY STAR® program, U.S. small businesses together spend a whopping $60 billion on energy each year. A survey conducted by the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) found that energy costs are a top-three business expense for more than one-third of the nation’s small businesses.   But small businesses…

After a challenging 18 months, we all can use a little camaraderie and motivation! Next week is the relaunch of our popular Business for Breakfast workshops featuring networking, free continental breakfast, and seminar presented by Lauren Turton, business coach and co-owner of Ciao Ciao Piadina.  Thanks to Ciao Ciao Piadina for providing complimentary continental breakfast…

While parking continues to be a hot topic in La Jolla, the parking forum has been postponed indefinitely.  Please follow our blog for the latest information related to topics such as the ones below. Parking and Mobility Facts – Parking Inventory, How Parking Impacts Traffic, Off-street parking usage, Valet Parking usage, La Jolla Parking Costs…

The Community Parking Forum scheduled for September 29 has been postponed until further notice. In the meantime make sure to check out our new website, www.parklajolla.com which has proven to be a great tool to help visitors and employees navigate parking options in La Jolla.  Additionally, we continue to offer both a visitor ($5 all…

Creating and presenting an Annual Report is a critical process for all organizations but especially important for non-profits and public agencies that are entrusted to serve their members with integrity, honesty, and transparency.  The La Jolla Village Merchants Association Board of Directors is dedicated to delivering value to those businesses located in our community.  Especially…

Business owners and community leaders overwhelming support the idea of a weekly “activation event” in the heart of La Jolla’s Business District, according to the analysis of 74 respondents.  After months of community conversations and research, La Jolla Village will become home to the WOW Market — part street festival, part makers’ market. For the…

In 2019 LJVMA commissioned San Diego State University to develop a survey tool and subsequent marketing plan that has offered critical and unbiased information to guide a variety of La Jolla Community Groups including City Council District One, Town Council, Community Planning Group and of course the La Jolla Village Merchants Association. At the time,…

Temporary Outdoor Business Operation Grant To assist small businesses with adapting operations amid COVID-19, the City of San Diego is offering grants up to $3,000 to businesses constructing outdoor decks and platforms compliant with the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA). As much as an additional $2,000–for a maximum grant of $5,000–will be available for businesses…

Congratulations are in order! Due to some changes in business operations, Brett Murphy, who has served on the LJVMA board for almost six-years (including over three years as President) has stepped down.  Murphy who will continue to be involved in the association nominated Cody Decker to take the reigns as the new President at last…

All La Jolla Village business owners are encouraged to attend a special virtual town hall with Mayor Todd Gloria and District One Council Member LaCava this Saturday, February 13.  This is your chance to ask questions, get clarifications and share your concerns and ideas.  This will be a time where all will have an opportunity…

While we move through what we hope will be the final months of COVID-19 restrictions, the LJVMA Board of Directors along with member and community representatives, drafted and adopted a strategic plan for 2021.  Plans range from promotional to policy and reflect the optimism and motivation that drives La Jolla’s small business community forward. To…

Saving money is on everyone’s mind and there are a variety of ways to save money when it comes to your business’s energy use. Try these tips to help trim your winter energy bills. Adjust your thermostat. When you’re in your office or workplace, set your thermostat as low as is comfortable. At night or…

Street parking might be “free” but it has high costs especially when spots are taken by merchants and their staff.  From the loss of productivity and parking fines to lost sales and negative public relations – the more employees willing to park off-street the better as it frees up spots for shoppers, diners, and visitors.…

Local businesses may be worried about their energy bill as summer arrives and as they try to recover from the economic impact of the pandemic. Businesses can take advantage of SDG&E programs to help stretch bill payments over a longer time, find the best pricing plan, and take online energy webinars. Qualifying SDG&E small business…

We Listened AND We Hear You! If you missed the June Membership Meeting, you will want to take some time to watch and listen to the recorded version of our very special panel featuring personal and — often hard to hear — stories of racism from four young people.  We learned more about the Black…

Join Us (via Zoom) for a Very Important Conversation led by LJVMA’s New Diversity Consultant, Rehema Ally-Lifa “Let’s Get Honest About Race” PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED Wednesday, June 10 @ 4:00 PM Meeting Room Opens at 3:30 Details: Protests, rallies, caravans, marches, and demonstrations over inequality and injustice have been part of American history for hundreds of…

It’s time to say goodbye to your mullet and roots! As of yesterday, May 27, hair salons and barbershops can resume services, but they must implement a variety of safety measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Sadly, nails, lashes, brows, body art, massages and other personal services will have to wait as these services…

As news about the coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to evolve, ICIC remains committed to supporting small businesses and driving inclusive economic prosperity. We know that small businesses, especially those in under-resourced communities, are likely to be hit the hardest, and we hope to serve as a source of information, resources, and tools for you in these…

All La Jolla Village Merchants are invited and highly encouraged to attend this webinar to learn the most up-to-date information and resources available to you during this difficult time. Please share info with others. Register here.

Businesses of all types are getting creative as they strive to continue to serve their clients, customers, and patients.  There’s more to health concerns than the current Coronavirus.  It’s good to know that you can “see” a doctor without leaving your safe space at home.

General Information CDC Center for Disease Control Coronovirus Official Site The Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development has compiled helpful information for employers, employees and all Californians as it relates to the cornonavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. CDC Interim Guidance for Businesses and Employers County of San Diego Coronavirus Site Mayor Issues Executive Order Further Limiting Gatherings, Closing Bars and Restaurant…

March 17, 2020, 10:00 AM  – The San Diego Workforce Partnership is publishing resources for both employees and businesses affected by the Coronavirus.  Click here for extremely valuable information including what to do if you are forced to lay off workers or need access to capital, grants, loans or expert advice especially for small businesses. …

We are thrilled to announce that Enhance La Jolla Maintenance Assessment District (MAD) began work in the Village on October 1, 2019.  John Unbewust, General Manager, explains that the Maintenance Assessment District (MAD) has awarded three initial contracts: Power-washing sidewalks annually. Trash pickup on weekends to supplement City service, plus daily litter control. Landscape maintenance…

Don’t panic! These fine young women are not all leaving us!  Although it is time to bid three of our incredible summer interns adieu  — at least until Winter Break.  All of us at La Jolla Village Merchants Association want to wish Katie Lin (Carnegie Mellon University), Katharin Dockman (Fashion Institute of Technology, NYC) and Kelsey…

The San Diego Tourism Authority is investing heavily in Chinese tourism and La Jolla’s beauty, beaches, and merchants are in the spotlight.   While other San Diego neighborhoods are featured in the eight high-quality videos which will be broadcast overseas, La Jolla is prominent.  Share the videos with your customers via social media or on your…