AGE: 50
NEIGHBORHOOD: Golden Hill
JOB: Owner, Communal
Ask Jen Byard about her path to building some of San Diego’s most Instragrammable coffee houses, and you might be surprised that she doesn’t mention coffee at all. Instead, what’s fueled her is a desire to create spaces that, like the name says, feel communal.
Following the success of her North Park and South Park locations, she’s opened a third in North County at Oceanside’s Tremont Collective, along with a separate retail entity, The Annex, where you’ll find Communal’s modern aesthetic but with a coastal twist. “My vision was for it to feel like you’re sitting outside near the ocean,” Byard says. “The skylights, open windows, plants and trees, wood installations, and colors all add to that vibe.” That’s all in addition to items that underscore her design ideology: “I’m attracted to pieces that can stand alone or be the inspiration for an entire space.” These are a few of those finishing touches.
Tastemaker Jen Byard's picks
29 Palms Candle
“This candle is in every room in my home. It’s earthy and smells like camping in the desert. It’s my go-to gift for pretty much everyone.”
$30
Anointing Oil
“This anointing oil, which I use in the shower, keeps my skin super smooth and smelling amazing. My favorite scent is Clary Sage and Citrus.”
$60
Cardamom Bitters
“To make an old-fashioned extra special for winter, pair Old Forester whiskey [Fernside sells an exclusive limited edition] with these cardamom bitters
by The Bitter Housewife.”
$16
Not Perfect Linen Overalls
“Is having six colors of the same overalls too many? Available in all of our shops, these are the most comfortable, well-fitting washed overalls I’ve ever had.
My favorites are forest green and almost apricot.”
$120
Hope Necklace
“This necklace has been a great reminder to me over the last few years, and through some personal struggles, to choose hope when life is challenging. It’s made locally in Encinitas by artist Kelsey Giusta.”
$76
Utopia Sherpa Bomber Jacket
“One of the best parts of having our shop at Tremont Collective in Oceanside is being three doors down from Brixton. I’ve been wearing my new sherpa jacket
every foggy morning since I bought it.”
$139
Sal Throw
“With sons who surf, I keep a bag of beach supplies in my car at all times. This sustainable throw is the best for getting some sun with drinks and a magazine.”
$54
"Hi from San Diego" Tumbler
“We love collaborating with San Diego native Katie Hart of Odd Daughter Paper. These fun tumblers represent both our shops and iconic San Diego and Oceanside landmarks.”
$34
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