Read this, this, and this (a tad outdated).

A lot of people on the forum have Chrome or Timbuk2 for a reasons other than the label. Check out Burro, Blicks, R.E.Load and Seagull. Those are all smaller operations as far as I know.

For the most part, you can't go wrong with any of those in terms of size. Just don't get their smallest messenger or backpack and you should have more room than you need. Also, check Craigslist. I'd imagine in the L.A. area, you'll be able to find some used bags at lower prices.