Her role as Kelly Taylor on Fox’s smash 1990s hit Beverly Hills, 90210 made Jennie Garth one of TV’s most popular personalities, and she’s gone on to star in 19 TV movies as well as the WB sitcom What I Like About You. These days, she’s heading up her own Me by Jennie Garth wellness brand, whose name nods back to her 90210 character’s famous “I choose me” line, uttered when Kelly was faced with every then-teenager’s nightmare: deciding between Dylan and Brandon.
As part of her larger “I Choose Me Movement,” which she describes as “the ultimate form of self-care and self-love,” Garth has launched her own popular podcast and “Me” QVC clothing line, the latter of which features monthly releases that are often inspired by California’s beauty (like her Big Sur and Santa Ynez Valley collections).
It’s clear the avid RV-er and busy mom loves soaking up all the state has to offer, and here she shares the outdoor sport adventures, flea market finds, and scenic drives that constantly keep her inspired.
Where do you live? Los Angeles.
Why there? I moved to L.A. with my mother. I was a teenager and a young actress, ready to start auditioning and somehow I’ve never truly left. I did spend many years on and off in the Santa Ynez Valley. I feel like my heart is somewhere between the gorgeous beaches of the city of L.A. and the beautiful horses in the rolling hills of Santa Ynez.
Who or what is your greatest California love? I love to RV through California! My family would take summer vacations in the RV when my kids were young. They loved it and we even drove cross-country a few times. I love that I can drive my RV up and down the coast of California on that beautiful scenic drive up PCH and Highway 1 through Santa Barbara, Big Sur, Monterey. It’s one of the most gorgeous views in the country.
What is the biggest misperception about Californians? One of the biggest is that they are all laid-back and obsessed with the relaxed lifestyle of the beach. Most people also think that if you're a Californian then you must be working in the glitz and glam of Hollywood. But in my experience many Californians are hardworking, driven, and involved in so many diverse industries like technology, education, advertising, and agriculture.
What is the stereotype that most holds true? Their emphasis on health and wellness, and our strong focus on organic food and holistic living. This stereotype holds some truth, especially in larger cities like Los Angeles. Yoga studios, farmers’ markets, and meditation spaces are as common as Starbucks here! I love self-care and am a huge advocate for everyone taking better care of their mental and physical health, so this stereotype about Californians doesn’t bother me one bit.
What is your favorite Golden State splurge? I love driving my electric car.
Time for a road trip—where are you going? Palm Springs, 100 percent! I love the vibe and the people there. The city is famous for its midcentury modern architecture, with most of the homes and buildings designed by renowned architects from that time period. My best friend Adele lives there and so does my longtime manager Randy, so whenever I have a free weekend for a road trip, it’s to visit them.
If you could decree an official state culinary experience, what would it be? Authentic Mexican food in California is unbeatable! We are an agricultural state so we have easy access to the freshest produce, which makes our guacamole and pico de gallo the best in the country. Additionally, many restaurant owners carry on authentic recipes passed down through the years. We are rich in culinary tradition here!
What is your favorite way to play in California? I love a great hike with my dogs and my daughters on the weekends. I love going to the beach to relax and watch the sunset. I love to visit the mountains to ski in the winter!
Where would you go for the ultimate shopping spree in California? Montana Ave. in Santa Monica or the Los Feliz Flea market.
Best California song? “California Gurls” by Katy Perry.
How would your California dream day unfold? If I could dream real big and not hit any traffic, the perfect California day would be: Begin the day with the sunrise and a hot tea by the beach in Santa Barbara, then have a picnic lunch in Yosemite National Park, take a nice hike and view the stunning views of Half Dome. Then by happy hour I’d be in Napa Valley having a glass of wine in a private vineyard and I’d wrap my day in Los Angeles with dinner at home with my family and my dogs.
