Sunday, August 8, 2010

Lisa Z.

by Alex Kent

Shopping in the Hollywood Riviera is a relaxing experience, no doubt about it. There is an unhurried, friendly feeling in the neighborhood and Lisa Z is part of that community.

Lisa and Ron Zagha Ron and Lisa Zagha have been in the 'people' business for over twenty years. During the ‘70’s Lisa had a clothing store in Century City for four years, carrying the Ferguson's Sport Collection. About the same time, Ron had a clothing business in downtown L.A. and was a rep. for Chemin de Fer Jeans. When they met, it was love at first sight and not long before they moved to Via Pima, in Valmonte. Ron switched over to real estate with ReMax, concentrating in Southern California and Nevada for a few years. Looking for work closer to home, they decided to open a clothing boutique at 1901 South Catalina Avenue in Redondo Beach. Naming it 'Lisa Z' the store took up residence next door to where the fabled Talisman Trading Company was located.

After more than 30 years they still say working together is “great!”

“We do different things for the business.” explains Ron. “She's the talent.”

“He's the biz!” agrees Lisa. They both beam.

Their son Perry is a graduate business major from Loyola Marymount and is excited about his parents’ endeavors. With a little subtle influence from his dad, Perry tried real estate law and found he quite liked it. He is currently in real estate investment with Scott Rosenberg – got the job the day before he graduated!

Lisa inherited the retail gene by way of her mother who had a clothing store in Detroit.

“To see my mom, I had to go to the store. She was always there.”

In business for herself, Lisa's philosophy includes the whole woman.Lisa Zagha She believes women should be emotionally empowered rather than have a critical self image. “Dress for personality and please yourself. Dressing for others is so stressful – you can't possibly please everybody.”

Ron and Lisa are also very health conscious. “Vitamins and a positive attitude make you feel better.” Lisa has been likened to a neighborhood shaman, counseling her customers while finding that perfect ‘something’ to complete an outfit – something that feels just right.

Hats, shoes and jewellery are arranged to match day dresses, jackets and evening-wear. New ideas of how to assemble accessories and colours becomes fun again. Soft “T’s” and pale tinted cargo pants cover the casual comfort department while the elegant sweaters, classic dresses and handbags appeal to sophisticated needs. Lisa Z is Hollywood Riviera’s answer to fashion clothing.

The Zagha’s love living in Valmonte; “People here are wonderful, friendly and committed to their neighborhood. We all do the welcome wagon thing.” One gets a sense that they believe a close neighbourhood is a comfortable one. Talking with them about Palos Verdes and their business, Lisa’s enthusiasm was energizing; “Enjoy the life you have!”

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