Journal filter by Desert Friends

All Roads Local Business Roundup

All Roads Local Business Roundup

There’s nothing we love more than supporting other small businesses, especially during the busy holiday season. There’s so much value in supporting the local shops that help your community thrive and keep it authentically unique. So in the spirit of shopping small, here are just a few (of the many!) local places where we like to eat and shop around the high and low desert.
Lauren Paez Burt - Lolo’s Casita

Lauren Paez Burt - Lolo’s Casita

“I remember the smells, style, and furniture they brought from Mexico. My grandmothers were chic abuelita’s, and my style honors that. I owe so much to my family.”
Kim Herrera Cruz - Citlali Tamales

Kim Herrera Cruz - Citlali Tamales

What does Citlali mean? Why did you choose it as your business name?

~Citlali means “star” in Náhuatl, both of Aztec and Maya origin.  Growing up, I was told it was supposed to be my name. Turns out it was actually my sis, haha, but it doesn’t change the fact that I lived my life with this thought~ partnered with the fact that one of my aunties (a twin btw) who unfortunately passed away as a baby, was also named Citlali. I like to think she IS a star, watching over our family. Need I say why I chose it? Fitting and meaningful, indeed.

Windmill City - Screenprinting

Windmill City - Screenprinting

It seems like you create merch for almost all of the business up in the high and low deserts, even huge festivals like Desert X.  Do you have any dream clients?
Ultimate local dreams would be to create the merch for the festivals at the Indio Polo Grounds held in April. We may currently be in the process of  inching towards that goal :) In another reality, Glen’s dream would be to print for Slayer. I’d like to be more connected to local art foundations/ (Looking at you—HDTS, Palm Springs Art Museum, and others!).
embroidered hats stacked on a chainstitch embroidery machine

Jason Steady - Chainstitching

What is the best thing about living in the desert?

Solitude. I no longer have to drive my van for hours (which I do love) to a secluded spot, now I just live in the secluded spot. It’s beautiful and quiet, and the sunsets never get old.

What is the worst thing about living in the desert?