About Gardena
Gardena is the city of opportunity, and also the perfect opportunity for your next film shoot location. Originally, it was home to the Tongva first nation people who hunted and fished here. Today, the city in the South Bay region of Los Angeles County boasts almost 60,000 residents.
The city has the largest population of Japanese Americans in the state of California, and as such, also boasts the most Japanese-owned companies with offices in the United States. It’s a mix of suburban residential areas and lively urban areas with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.
The climate is just what you would expect from California, sunny and warm almost every day. If you spend more than one day here, you are almost guaranteed a perfectly sunny day in the 70s or 80s. For all of these reasons and more, it makes sense why so many people choose their film shoot location in Gardena.
Film Shoot Location Options in Gardena
Professionals love the film shoot locations options in Gardena because they have a mix of everything, from residential neighborhoods to businesses, and green spaces. The industry within the city supports the economy and workings of the residents and businesses that call it home.
- Catering
It goes without saying that the Japanese catering options in Gardena are top-notch and rival those found anywhere else in the state. Of course, there are plenty of other caterers offering other cuisines.
- Furniture Rentals
Film shoots need furniture and props, and the companies in Gardena can complete any set. There is a mix of antique, modern, and anything else you need. Many companies also offer design services, transforming the space for you.
- Transportation
Navigating a new city, listening – and trying to comply with GPS instructions – and working through the upcoming film shoot in your head isn’t the best combination. The transportation companies in Gardena can handle logistics, whether that’s getting here or moving around within the city.
Film Shoot Location Companies in Gardena
Each of these companies, and their counterparts, offers high-quality services that can be tailored to your film shoot. Gardena prides itself on being the city of opportunity, and these businesses welcome the opportunity to serve you.
- Fukagawa
Fukagawa offers exquisite Japanese cuisine right in Gardena. They’ve served the community for over 30 years with dining, take-out, and catering. Menus feature traditional Japanese cuisine, and catering options include bonenkai, lunches, dinners, and special requests. Breakfast options are also available.
- Executive Professional Transportation
Executive Professional Transportation offers low rates to destinations, flat rates to specific places, and package deals. Their services include reliable and comfortable transportation with flexible options. Whether you want a sharp-looking sedan and driver or a huge luxury party bus, you can get what you need here.
- designer8*
designer8* believes in and is passionate about finding the perfect furniture for every event, including your film shoot. They can handle trendy furniture, lighting, props, and any accessories you need. They also have additional locations, so if what you need is not already in Gardena, it will be by the time you get there.
Pros and Cons of Film Shoot Locations in Gardena
There are pros and cons of film shoot locations in Gardena, as there are with other cities in Los Angeles County. Compare and contrast these to your needs before making a final decision on your film shoot location.
Advantages
- Affordable
Gardena is a popular residential city because it’s affordable. The lower cost of living and the plentiful options of homes, restaurants, and activities makes it an attractive place for young families, professionals, and those seeking a quieter pace.
- Sunshine state of mind
How’s the weather? Well, that’s not a question you’ll need to ask when heading to Gardena. A city with the name Gardena in a state known for its sunny days means the weather will be smiling down on you during your film shoot.
- It’s all here
Gardena is close to everything you need. If you want to swim or sunbathe, there are several beaches easily accessible from Gardena. Looking for a night out on the town? Gardena has that too.
Disadvantages
- Freeway city
One of Gardena’s nicknames is Freeway City. That’s not the most promising sign, but it got this nickname because it has access to so many freeways.
- Smog
Those cars on all those freeways cause another problem, smog, and smoke. Air quality in Gardena is not always the best because of all the traffic and some residents say that’s how it earned the nickname Freeway City.
- Crime rate
Gardena is a relatively small city in Los Angeles County, so the higher crime rate is a bit startling. Despite being an urban-suburban mix of residential areas, the crimes include violent crime and property crimes.
Famous Locations in Gardena
- Gardena Willows Wetland Preserve
Gardena Willows Wetland Preserve is 9.4 acres and is a naturally occurring wetland or marsh. It’s located in the southeast part of the city, and water is above the land throughout the year, creating a unique habitat that’s home to many species of willows and other trees.
- Jazz Festival
The City of Gardena hosts a jazz festival each August where residents and visitors can enjoy a day of amazing jazz musicians, good food, and friends. The festival is held in Rowley Park, which is managed by the city, and you can’t be anywhere near there without enjoying some of the music. Even if you are not going to be in Gardena in August, Rowley Park is a fun place to visit.
- Gardena Mayme Dear Library
During World War II, Japanese Americans were removed from their homes in Gardena and placed in internment camps. They returned after the war, and their loyalty is memorialized in many places. The Gardena Mayme Dear Library has resources and exhibits about Executive Order 9066 and information on Japanese Americans and their experiences during World War II.