Innovative Businesses in the South Bay

Some businesses here in the South Bay are on the cutting edge of modern innovation. From solar panels to tree rentals, Patch lists five creative businesses in Manhattan Beach and surrounding areas:

•  nail boutique and spa on Sepulveda Boulevard in Manhattan Beach doesn't have the typical "chemical" smell of a nail salon as it uses eco-friendly and organic products for manicure and pedicure services—even offering nail art and "non-toxic" gel overlay. The cozy shop calls its waiting room a living room and customers are welcomed into chairs with hot tea.

• The Living Christmas Company in Redondo Beach organizes Christmas tree rentals every holiday season. "Simply choose one of our varieties of locally grown trees and we'll deliver it to your home or business," says the company's website. The Living Christmas Company won the 2010 for Innovation (see accompanying video.)

• continues to shine bright on Pacific Coast Highway in Hermosa Beach as it designs and installs solar electric grid-tie systems for clients, serving as a significant force in the local push for solar energy. The PCH business runs on energy generated from custom solar panels that business owner Bradley Bartz installed on the store's roof.

• Local Deals for Moms is a new Rancho Palos Verdes-based website that offers daily deals and coupons to South Bay mothers (similar to Groupon). Business wwner Vicki Croucier launched the online company in April. "There’s so many great businesses here in the South Bay," she . "We deserve to have our own deals."

•  on Beryl Street in Redondo Beach is a self-serve dog wash. How's that for innovation? Pet owners can use one of the open stalls to bathe and pamper their pooch. A basic wash is $16, according to the company's website. Appointments also can be made for store workers to groom your pet. John and Lisa Grannis, who are from Hermosa Beach, own the business.