Shopping in Vincent

Collector's Paradise Comics & Gallery stuffs itself wall-to-wall and floor-to-ceiling with more time-travel and evil-origin subplots than all the shops of the Megaverse combined. All comics comfortably coexist amongst shelves, including major publishers like Marvel and independents like Image, with every Top Cow, Dark Horse, and Archie in between. Indulge your tastes with the wildly popular (Batman Lovers six-comic collection, $30), the lovingly obscure (one of 500 copies of the graphic novelization of Kevin's Smith's unproduced Green Hornet film, $10), and the possibly functional (Lantern Corps colored ring set, $10), among much, much more. In all, the store encompasses 2,400 square feet of comics and graphic novels, action figures, posters, and much more. It is one of the oldest and largest comic-centric stores in the San Fernando Valley. Collector's Paradise also plays host to numerous in-store events, signings, and exhibitions.

Before making his away across the country to own and operate Fleet Feet Sports' Encino-based shop, Trey Barnes developed a passion for running in his native North Carolina. Now, the avid marathoner and his team of dedicated gazelles help fitness buffs find the appropriate gear to match their routines and ability levels. By carefully accessing specific foot types and gait cycles, staffers can match customers with a brand-name solemate to cradle their feet during long jogs or power strolls, and a hearty stock of technical gear keeps men and women comfy in weather-appropriate attire. Meanwhile, the store's calendar of events stays up-to-date on races, marathon training, and fun runs.

A full-service bike shop embracing road, mountain, and casual riders alike, Santa Monica Mountains Cyclery suits every whim and riding style, from its mechanics performing basic repairs or complete system overhauls to its supply of custom-built frames and wheels. Two-wheeled mounts from brands such as Trek, Jamis, and Knolly wag their handlebars from racks along the wall, and the shop rewards new adopters with a slew of perks, from free tune-ups for a year to unlimited cups of coffee for owners and hot WD-40 for bikes. In addition, 5% of all pre-tax profits help benefit organizations dedicated to preserving California’s natural gems and cycling havens, such as the Santa Monica Mountains Fund and the Mountains Restoration Trust.

In the 1930s, using stone quarried from his nearby ranch, silent-movie actor Francis Lederer finally made noise building a horse stable for his wife, Marion. Over the years, the site became a historical and cultural monument that now houses the Hidden Chateau & Gardens, an event space rented out for weddings and parties. Outside the chateau's impressive façade, swatches of greenery trim stone paths, and sprays of water trickle down the tiers of garden fountains. Towering shade trees wrapped in twinkling lights and lush, verdant flora sprout throughout the 1.5-acre property.

Inside, under a Spanish-style roof, two private rooms ensure brides and grooms don't see each other before their blind date down the aisle. Aside from weddings and other private parties, the gardens also play host to public events such as wine pairings, art shows, and bridal expos. Additionally, an onsite boutique collects everything from furniture to work by local artists, with some items available for rent for events that take place on the property.

More than 30 world-class designers have helped Em & Co fill its shelves, clothe its mannequins, and wiggle its way into various print and online publications. Among the dashing pickings here are pieces from Vivienne Westwood, JC de Castelbajac, Stella McCartney, and Missoni. Em & Co is dedicated to fashion as art—on the walls, artwork catches any eye that's not fixated on the gallery's apparel, accessories, and très chic eye charts. The space also hosts monthly exhibits and various events featuring local talent.