Landis’ Labyrinth Wins Vote as Best Toy Store

SPONSORED POST: Devoney Wolfus truly represents the rare breed of “local shopkeeper” still left in Los Angeles. On Larchmont Boulevard, she owns and runs two locations of her busy toy store, Landis’ Labyrinth and operates an additional location in Manhattan Beach which recently was voted “Best Toy Shop” by 100,000 voters in the Our South Bay Locals’ Choice Awards.

“Because of how long I have worked on the boulevard, from working at my mom’s shop from when I was 9 at Landis General Store, then at Pumpkins Toys when I was 16, I am humbly reminded how young I am as a shop owner,” Wolfus, 32, told the Buzz. “Larchmont is home to me, I have grown up on this street and seen good changes as well as bad changes, but it is those of us dedicated to trying to keep it locally owned and unique to Los Angeles that will keep it special to those of us who live in the neighborhood.”

Like many others in the neighborhood, Wolfus dreams of having a health food store return on the boulevard. She sees the influx of new businesses, like the “new twist on a coffee shop” Go Get ‘Em Tiger and Flywheel, for the healthy and fit crowd it draws, as good for the other businesses on the block. Wolfus employs ten people at her three locations. ” I love them all and appreciate how much each of them care about the shops and putting in their own unique touches to the shop every day. The shops would simply not survive without my wonderful team of employees,” she said.

As for future plans for Landis’ Labyrinth on Larchmont? Wolfus is hoping to establish a new program to give back to the community via charities. Customers will have an opportunity to buy raffle tickets for a unique (donated) toy prize – the ticket earnings will go to a specified charity in the community and the winner will get the special prize.

Another plan in the works will be welcomed by the younger crowd on the street: Landis’ Labyrinth will soon be selling small skateboards and razor scooters. Drop in at 140 and 144 North Larchmont Blvd even if you’re not a kid – there are many fun toys, gizmos and games that even adults would enjoy.

Our South Bay: Locals’ Choice Awards 2013

Larchmont Buzz: There’s a Toy Story Too on Larchmont