This week we meet Brits in LA Member Paulette Ivory from London who moved to LA 8 years ago as a Singer/Actor.
Was there a particular reason you chose LA?
I chose LA because I had just finished playing the title role in Elton John and Disney’s AIDA for a year and a half on an incredible US tour. It was a pivotal moment in my career and I felt nothing could really top that experience other than TV or film roles. LA had always been in the back of my mind as a dream location move that I wanted to make and so when the tour ended and with decent money now in the bank, it felt like the time was right.
What one thing do you miss from home?
Family and friends! A no-brainer. The people who knew me back when and the love and laughter that I always experience when I am surrounded by my family members. I miss them more than anything. A huge sacrifice.
What do you find the biggest difference is living here versus the UK?
Weather! Number one! I wake up with smile on my face just because the sun is shining. In London there were days when I felt like I had ‘SAD’ because the rain and gray days would make me not want to get out of bed. Felt depressing. So the weather really motivates me and I find I am much more proactive and productive. Also the opportunities here and the people you get to so easily meet. Here in LA I have screen tested for movies like ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ as well as ‘Miami Vice’ with Jamie Foxx. I was not getting the chance to be seen for such huge movies whilst in London. And just how many opportunities there are to network with very successful industry people here can be exhilarating. Makes you want to succeed even more. It pushes you as it feels within your reach.
Do you have a hidden gem in LA that you want to share with us?
Yes, and this is a recent gem I was introduced to last year. ‘The Sunset’. It’s a gorgeous lounge/restaurant on the Malibu beachfront that is hidden away off a small road off the PCH. You can eat a delicious meal there, that almost feels like fine dining and then literally step out onto the sand at the front entrance. Then you just spend the rest of the day relaxing on the beach. No need to drive anywhere else or do anything. I really love it there. Makes me feel like I’m on vacation. And it has a super laid back feel to it as well. There’s even a DJ occasionally in the small lounge playing cool, chilled background music. Love it.
What would you suggest to others who are thinking about making the move here?
Just make sure you come with a decent amount of money in the bank because you’ll be surprised how much you need to get fully set up. Car, cell phone, a nice safe location to live in (especially if you’re moving here alone), joining the unions, cable and internet, food, gas, gas and gas…..the list goes on. So I would also suggest maybe a little part job when you first arrive just so that you’re not constantly dipping into your savings. Could also allow you to hold onto your money a little bit longer in the beginning. You may get lucky right away but it’s best to prepare for all eventualites. But mainly I would say, GOOD LUCK and stay optimistic in all you pursue. No one can hold you back but you.
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