I planted 3 fruit trees last year and installed a raised vegetable bed where I grow mostly…read moretomatoes. I was looking forward to a bountiful harvest, but, alas, it was not to be. Squirrels and raccoons ate all the fruit, and rats spoiled many of the tomatoes. So I commissioned Raul at VGLA to construct 3 critter cages for fruit trees and one for a raised veggie bed. The results are spectacular. The custom redwood enclosures, utilizing 1/2" chicken wire and latches on the doors, will deter anything as small as a mouse or as large as a bear. AND, because they are as attractive as nice outdoor furniture, they fit into the landscape beautifully. The other day I looked out at the garden, and noticed a forlorn squirrel sitting on top of the cage enclosing my espaliered apple tree. He was unable to find a way to get inside and grab the luscious fruits starting to ripen, finally giving up and skipping away in frustration. Hah! The other day I picked the first ripe apricot, the best I've ever tasted, and reflected on how I can now go to bed every night frustration-free, knowing that all the fruits and tomatoes are safe, without worrying about poisons, pointless trapping, or repellents that never work.

I was so happy to receive my planters! My sister told me about them as she follows Ms. Haddish on…read moreIG! They were exactly what I needed! The set up was quick, the team that drove them all the way to Temecula (bless you) were awesome! I only wish I knew about the Thanksgiving herbs! Then I would be off to a great start! To bad the gardening company that you use to supply the herbs and veggies, does not ship to Temecula as the herbs look great! Nice and healthy! Thank you again for your help of getting my project course corrected...

Self-Realization Fellowship Lake Shrine gets a well-deserved 5-star review from me!…read more I came here on a Sunday afternoon to visit and check out the property for the very first time. I seriously can't believe I've never been here before! Just a quick tip for anyone planning a visit: you do have to make a reservation online beforehand because they strictly manage crowd control. While they host a service on Sunday mornings, we couldn't make that time work, so we booked an afternoon slot instead. Parking is free in their lot, but it can get really busy, so give yourself a few minutes. The grounds are absolutely stunning! The lake, all of the lush plants, and the unique buildings make it feel like you've completely left Southern California and entered another world. Everything is so calm, peaceful, and serene, and I instantly felt a profound sense of inner peace the moment I stepped onto the property. They also run various programs and group meditation sessions in the chapel. We were fortunate enough to attend one of the meditation sessions during our visit, and it was deeply moving and very beautiful. Overall, it was such a wonderful experience and a truly restorative way to spend an afternoon. I will definitely be back!

It is with great gratitude and respect that I write this review of Lake Shrine because I found it…read moreto be the best free experience that the Los Angeles Basin has to offer and this is not an exaggeration, nor is commentary sponsored by ad funds. I am feeling pure and substantial admiration and thus I will try to convey it on to page in hopes of celebrating the gift of serenity this place offered me without asking for anything in return, from me. The serenity that this place induced within me, so quickly and firmly, was so strong that I dared to think of scenarios that would challenge it. Meaning I was so in peace in the Lake Shrine grounds, that I wondered what would disturb this seemingly unshakable peace? And my mind went to a dark place. I will eventually know the heart-woe of being an orphan and I wondered if my biggest grief would be lessened in this environment. I know that this was a quirky maybe even macabre way of describing the grandiose peace of this place but I wanted to be honest to the experience because the serenity offered by this place was extreme and unique because I had never felt something quite like it. Thus the question becomes: How did this place achieve this new sense of peace/serenity within me? First, the ground themselves were tranquility in soft, barely moving stillness. As soon as I was walking down the 100 or so steps to get to the bottom of this sunlit, open-air cathedral I felt the calming colors of nature all around me, plus the absence of city sounds. Like the freeway was near the Shrine. And I could hear it. But the traffic was not a reminder of a city near, it was more like rumors of cities that were somewhere in the horizon but not near because the stress of these distant cities and their bills and heinous crime did not belong amongst the quietly pulsating, encompassing peace. As I walked the grounds, I saw koi fish and a swan swimming amongst its central lake that was clear as I hoped my mind would be while engaging in the meditative practices that this placed offer. In fact, in one of the videos I clipped I followed a white koi with my video camera. As it swam in the water that was not hit by sunlight the fish was white. As it continued to swim to the part of the lake that had water hit by sun, the koi fish turned a little bit green, like a turqouise shade. And I thought about why the fish would turn green, just slighthly? And that is is where I understood that the clear blue water and the yellow sunlight came together to make green. In fact, the play of light across the grounds was one of the reasons why I loved! this place. I took a picture of a tree drenched with sunlight. But to my eye, the tree did not get covered with sunlight, it was more adorned in sunlight. Like the green was present and the yellow light was present, but they did not become one, it was like the skin of a female was covered in golden lace. Take these moments and add the duo of mingling butterflies I spotted, the small but mighty waterfall, and all of the majestic roses around I feel great comfort in describing this place an Eden of curated nature. I was also fortunate enough to arrive at a time where I could wait an hour and attend one of their guided meditations, inside a windmill. And this was an experience that made me feel the power of meditation in full scope. At the end, the guide, asked all of us to say om three times. The first time I joined, the second time I did too, but in the third om I remained quiet. I heard the symphony of om's around me and together they made music that verberated within my skin. I did not feel goosebumps, instead I felt my skin shimmer with waves that come an in-rest mind. The meditation focused on feeling love from the heart and have it encompass us, our neighbors, our family, and all people who claim the world their earth. The words of the guide, the peace of the spot, the sounds that could not be heard but felt, made me feel like I was pulsating with love vibes that were being transmitted from me to all in golden, circular vibes. Like I said when I first started to write this Yelp, I am not exaggerating, those images and feelings came to my mind. What I fear is that I will visit this place a second time and not feel the wonders of my first visit. I mean that is a common situation, people will never feel the same pleasure they first felt, when they heard their favorite song. I asked a working gardener if he ever lost the love for the wondrous garden surrounding him. He said never. I hope he was right. I don't plan to go hear regularly, but enough for the peace to feel needed and true. I also took a tour of the garden with another guide. She described the lotus frame next to the lake as a "wallless temple" which made a lot of sense. I was at a pier not too long ago after my visit. And I was at the pier's edge facing the water and I realized this was also a wallless temple. I hope this Yelp is a peace pulse, too!

It was beautiful! I want to come back with my Wife and show…read moreher the gardens! The staff are really sweet and helpful. There's plenty of Parking. If it gets hot, it's nicely air conditioned in the buildings where there's also bathrooms.

This place is a true gem in the heart of Los Angeles. Tucked away near the Los Angeles River and…read morethe Arroyo Seco, it feels like a secret garden you stumbled upon. The Mission Revival architecture is stunning, with lush landscaping and beautiful courtyards. It's a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, perfect for a quiet stroll or a picnic with friends. There's also a small visitor center with exhibits about the history of the Los Angeles River and the surrounding area. There's also a gift shop with a variety of local and nature-inspired items. And if you're looking for a unique event space, the center offers beautiful indoor and outdoor facilities for weddings, conferences, and other special occasions. I recently attended their Family Day, which was a wonderful way to spend an afternoon and explore the area. The center hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, workshops, and family-friendly activities. Additional notes: The center is free to visit There is ample parking available on site. The center is accessible to people with disabilities. There are several restrooms located throughout the grounds. Be sure to check their website or social media for upcoming events. Bring a picnic lunch or snacks to enjoy in the gardens.

Dawooljung - A Harmonious Gathering Place is very small but so quiet and worth the visit. They have…read morea small but amazing garden and there are places to just sit and enjoy the peace and quiet of such a place. There are several gardens, you need to look, but they are there. They have a beautiful Pagoda and you will love it. Again is is small but worth the drive. Enjoy.

This place is kinda cool but the area is a horrible nightmare. Stinks so bad, people lying on the…read moresidewalk. Horrible experience

I had my wedding here this past weekend... WOW. AMY (the…read morevenues day of coordinator) COMPLETELY blew us away... I couldn't have asked for a better experience. In fact, she exceeded my expectations so much. I am so beyond grateful that I had her for my special day. She made sure everything was done exactly the way I wanted it and if I wasn't there to make a decision, she was so aware of how to do it for me. I will be recommending her to all of my friends who are getting married. The BEST DOC. The venue was so beautiful and speaks for itself. I truly came to make a review specifically for Amy. If you have your wedding here, you will not be disappointed. What a 10/10 experience. Dear Amy.. we will never ever forget you. You were totally made for this and I'm so happy that we got you

Fantastic venue. We just had our wedding a week ago and it was perfect. Amy Johnson from Hutchinson…read moreWeddings was amazing. She took care of every last detail and organized a magical evening for us. The venue is a peaceful garden space and a week later guests are still texting us about what a good time they had. Would definitely recommend.

As I was searching up info on Crystal Caves for a similarly named national park, I happened upon…read morethis one. The day I paid a visit it had just rained a bit in the afternoon then cleared out for the rest of the evening. Up above this hillcrest on any given day I suspect would be ideal for watching the sunset or perhaps flying a kite. There was a consistent light breeze which felt refreshing, free from the congested traffic down below. Among the offerings include a baseball field, a modern jungle gym, basketball courts, and tennis courts. Specifically, tennis takes priority over pickleball. Further up the hill there's a small Japanese garden with a gazebo which while a bit worn out has a lot of charm. Street parking was plentiful and it never got really crowded. One thing I noticed was that my mobile network became somewhat spotty, but 'tis a minor inconvenience. If I'm free, I'd love to visit more often.

Want to watch your kids play baseball? Want to walk around…read moreand get steps in? Any Pokémon Go players want a bunch of Pokestops or gyms? Want fresh air? Available restrooms? This is one good spot for all ages!

Vibiana is a beautiful downtown venue, a former 19th century cathedral to St. Vibiana, the Patron…read moreSaint of the Nobodies. Redbird, now an L.A. dining icon, is in the old rectory, and the whole property is available to rent for events. I went for a recent gala, and the venue was beautiful, huge and versatile, with several distinct spaces. There were cocktails in both the Redbird dining room and in the courtyard, a seated dinner in the main hall, and a whole other room that served as a lounge. Every space was attractive, maintained with the kind of respect and attention a historic building deserves. Service was great, both at the bar and for dinner. I was just a guest, so I know nothing about the logistics, but I'd look into the Vibiana if I were booking a wedding or fundraiser or something of that nature. I'd be happy to go back for another fancy party. Feel free to invite me to yours.

Vibiana once was the formal Catholic Cathedral for the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. It was damaged…read morein the 1994 Northridge earthquake. As a result, a lengthy battle ensued between the archdiocese, who wanted to demolish it, and preservationists, who wanted to designate it as a historical landmark. The preservationists won and it's now an event space with an adjacent restaurant called Redbird - both are owed by Redbird Chef Neal Fraser & Amy Knoll Fraser. Naturally, it's popular for weddings but has also been used for events & parties. I've attended many fashion shows here during LA Fashion Week. The venue is charming and the courtyard is a lovely spot for receptions. I recently came here for a cocktail seminar - TOTC. Some aspects of the church remain, including the beautiful hardwood floors, altar, confessionals, & choir area. Tastings were held in the cathedral and classes in the adjacent building, which was once the rectory. The staff here were all friendly and accommodating. It is a lovely & functional venue for events. *Metered street parking or lot across the street $12.

A magical, special place with wonderful people and amazing events/screenings…read more The panorama exhibit is one of my favorite places to visit in LA. If you can, be sure to see The Man in the Tuskhut exhibit? Event? Encounter? Not sure what to call it but I loved it. And after your movie screening, Man in Tuskhut encounter, panorama viewing, etc., be sure to check out the lovely gardens and saloon out back!

This place is cute. As long as you what your walking j to before going and that it's not a huge…read moremuseum. It's a quick, inexpensive, different experience. Not very busy. The only reason i gave it 4 starts was because i was looking forward to the free drinks and it was all gone when i got to it. Other than that's cute. By downtown so there are plenty of other things to do before/after you go here

I really working with Brian and his team. They were very professional, arrived on time, and the job…read morewas beyond my expectations. They put together a 3D design and executed in a way that exceeded my expectations I have already recommended them to all my friends and Family, as they really went up above and beyond Thank you so much LA Plants and Bryan

Brian is great to work with, very flexible and ensures the team does a great job end to end. Highly…read morerecommend him!

We needed a gardener very last minute this past weekend to prep our house for sale. We had already…read moregotten landscaping done, but due to the rain our grass and other greenery had been growing out of control. Our front, side and backyard needed TLC ASAP! I called on Saturday Afternoon and Gonzalo was able to come to our house the same day to do an estimate. After walking through with us, he said that he could get the job done the next day (Sunday Morning!) and it would be no problem. Gonzalo showed up and they got to work. Everything that needed to be done was done quickly and efficiently! Everything looks great! Thank you so much for accommodating us so last minute! The lawn and backyard look so much better!

Was fine at first, the he decided to ask for payment with out showing up. Business ended right…read morethere.