Meet Mary Payne from Dublin, Ireland who moved to LA 38 years ago in 1982.
Was there a particular reason you chose LA?
I moved here in hopes to pursue a new life. I got my first job at The Boathouse Restaurant—which is now Bubba Gump Shrimp on The Santa Monica Pier; I was bartending and the event planner for private parties. Moving to LA was a big change for me, it was a whole new way of life, and I was introduced to wonderful weather and gorgeous beaches. It was so much more diverse here and a more fast-paced way of life as it still is, but it was a lot of fun. Like the rest of the world around us life in LA has changed immensely since I moved here in the 80s, many old businesses are no longer here, it is becoming more and more modern and much more busy as the years go by.
What do you miss most from home?
My older sister was the first of all of us to move here and as we all followed we were instantly introduced to the British community, which grew as the years went by. It was really nice to find this new community as we all missed our families so much and eventually we all became a second family. The holidays at home were always better with all the family together and I definitely miss that the most. I miss the greenery back at home as well as the banter. Thankfully, having the British community here helps
What was your first impression of LA and has it changed since?
I felt that Los Angeles had so much to offer – a lot more opportunities, and a more free way of life. Overtime, life has gotten a bit more expensive in LA. Initially, it was so inexpensive and we felt so free and were able to do whatever we want. I have noticed that it has been more difficult for people to afford the lifestyle that LA entails. There have been hardships especially regarding money and living expenses as rent continues to rise as Santa Monica has become so gentrified.
Do you have a hidden gem in LA that you want to share with us?
Although a lot has changed here over the years I’m glad to still have some of my favorite hole in the wall places including: Jaipur, the Indian place on Pico towards Westwood, and Malibu Seafood on PCH.
What would you suggest to others who are thinking about making the move here?
To anyone looking to move here I would suggest to have a plan beforehand, be sure to have all your legal documentation in order, as it is far more difficult as it once was. Be sure to come in with an open mind and be ready for new experiences and a new way of life. You will never regret it.
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?
A word of advice that I have always stood by is: always work very hard, and keep your mind on your goals and by believing in yourself and putting in work, and you can have a very amazing way of life if you set your mind to it.
Lastly, how can we find out more about you? Are you working on anything at the moment?
I am so thankful to have my catering business ‘Mary’s Fine Catering’. I started my business 27 years ago, doing lots of private parties – weddings, bar mitzvahs, movie premiers, as well as celebrity dinners. Being a private chef I cook all the food for my parties. Along with my private parties I also do Sunday Roast Dinners, which are becoming a must-have in Santa Monica/Los Angeles – many of my customers being from Brits in LA and the rest of the British and Irish community. I do have many American customers which are also getting a taste for the British food. I can be found on Instagram under @MarysFineCatering and can be reached at marysfinecatering@yahoo.com or 310-488-1432 for any inquiries.
Thank you, looking forward to meeting you all!
