Meet Marissa McDaniel from Seattle, who moved to LA 12 years ago to attend Pepperdine University on an athletic scholarship, with hopes of eventually working in the fashion industry.
Was there a particular reason you chose LA?
Moving to LA was always my dream since I can remember. LA is the ultimate hub of culture and style, and what can I say, I love the beach and the weather.
What do you miss most from home?
My family. However, I am super lucky to have a wonderful husband (a Brit, naturally) and three dogs who support and love me here, and my family loves to visit. After 12 wonderful years, here is home.
What was your first impression of LA and has it changed since?
When I first moved to LA, I just remember thinking, I will never learn how to get around! There are so many freeways and so many parts to the city. I was totally overwhelmed. Then I got an internship working in a CBS wardrobe department in Glendale, and all of a sudden I got really well acquainted with this city! Now, if I get a job in a part of LA I haven’t been to, I just allow myself 30 extra minutes to get there (more on a Friday afternoon, obvi!)
What do you find the biggest difference is living here versus Seattle?
I don’t care what anyone says, LA is hands down the friendliest city I have ever lived in, and my family moved a lot (14 times by the time I graduated high school – Dad was in the Navy). I love the people of LA. People actually smile, opening doors for others is a given, and inviting your new neighbor over for a drink goes without saying! Most of my dealings are around Marina del Rey and Venice where I live, but this city rarely lets me down. The attitude and vibrancy of the people of this city are what makes it truly unique, and I never want that to change.
Do you have a hidden gem in LA that you want to share with us?
I am a Westsider by nature, so most of my gems are within biking distance of my house. Luckily, The Cow’s End, on Washington has the best coffee and smoothies in the city, and Rose Cafe is wonderful to stop by for an afternoon treat or coffee and croissant. However, being married to a Brit, there are a few British traditions I have adopted, and one of them is afternoon tea. Afternoon Tea at the Peninsula in Beverly Hills is a fabulous treat we do when it’s been too long since we’ve been back to London. Lastly, a little shopping tip, (I’m in the biz after all); Naked Cashmere is a fabulous LA brand, with a tiny shop in the Malibu Country Mart, but a huge online shop. They have amazing pieces at the best prices, and every once in a while they’ll have a sample sale, so sign up for their emails. Is that too many gems??
What would you suggest to others who are thinking about making the move here?
Do it! Don’t find ways to talk yourself out of it. The opportunities available here are second to none. Almost everyone I know moved to LA to pursue their dream or passion. I wanted to be a successful stylist; there aren’t many places in the world where there is a huge demand for that. Luckily, here is one of them! Uprooting your life is scary, but once you’re here, it will feel like home so much sooner than you realize. My husband, like most of you, moved here from a totally different country, and I know we both consider this home now.
Lots of our members join our group Brits in LA seeking out words of wisdom – what is the best piece of advice you’ve been given?
Ask for help! People are so eager to help. Everyone is at a different stage in their life; these groups are made to help each other get through these stages the best we possibly can, and hopefully enjoy ourselves while doing it. Sometimes we get so focused, but it is ok to ask for some guidance once in a while. This group is especially great for that.
Lastly, how can we find out more about you?
Thank you for asking! Own Your Closet is my personal styling business, and I specialize in working with the clothes you already own. So many people have a full closet, but keep feeling they have nothing to wear. Really, they just need a little help getting the most out of what they already have. It’s up to me to maximize your existing wardrobe by putting together new looks, getting rid of the old and unnecessary and make sure you are prepared with outfits for any occasion that may arise, whether that be auditions, work functions, professional lunches, nights out, or black tie events. The first hour is always free for new clients and for you Brits, $50 for each additional hour (normally $100). You are welcome to check out my website ownyourcloset.com, follow me on Instagram.com/ownyourcloset or shoot me an email for any reason at ownyourcloset@gmail.com.
