Meet Johanna Besterman from Chicago who moved to LA 25 years ago to pursue her PhD in literature from UCLA.
Was there a particular reason you chose LA?
Yes! The weather was a major plus. I was also looking for graduate programs that matched my interests. The two came together perfectly here in LA.
What do you miss most from home?
My neighborhood. I’m from a small, artsy intellectual enclave on the South Side of Chicago called Hyde Park. The University of Chicago is there. I definitely don’t miss the weather! But I do miss the down-to-earth, straightforward and multicultural community. People are authentic there and say what they mean and mean what they say. That makes relationships real and strong.
What was your first impression of LA and has it changed since?
“OMG! It’s green and sunny all year round!” I do recognize that we’re in a desert, but when I first moved to LA I fell in love with the foliage – particularly the night blooming jasmine. That has never changed. In fact, my backyard is full of citrus trees and various herbs that bloom throughout the year. My favorite scent is orange blossoms.
What do you find the biggest difference is living here versus Chicago? LA is a much easier city in a lot of ways. You don’t have to worry about scraping ice off your windshield, surviving a sudden rainstorm, or having clothes for every season! I also feel that LA is a place for dreamers and entrepreneurs, whereas Chicago is much more of a traditional city. Chicago has the benefit of neighborhoods with corner bars (like pubs in the UK!) and the sense of community is much stronger there. But LA has an inherent optimism. And orange blossoms!
Do you have a hidden gem in LA that you want to share with us?
The Self Realization Fellowship Lake Shrine is a beautiful place to take a quiet walk among lush gardens beside a spring-fed lake that abounds with swans, ducks, koi, turtles and lotus flowers. I don’t know how hidden it is, but it’s certainly a gem within the busy city.
What would you suggest to others who are thinking about making the move here?
Be prepared to have to work to build your community. Organizations like Brits in LA are a perfect way to meet people, find out about some cool places and activities and make the city feel smaller and more friendly. Also, there are so many places and “ways” to live in LA – from urban and suburban to up in the hills or down in the valley. Think carefully about things like your commute and lifestyle when choosing where to live.
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? Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there and explore a variety of interests and communities. It may take awhile, but you can build a wonderful life in LA.
Lastly, how can we find out more about you? Are you working on anything at the moment?
I am! I’ve recently pivoted my event planning business into a home-based bakery. I’ve always enjoyed hosting, baking, creating experiences for people and building community. Recently, that’s been a challenge. But I found delivering fresh baked treats directly to friends and neighbors became a great way to connect – albeit at a distance. So, a few months ago, with the help of my thirteen year-old son, Lucas, I launched Orange Butter Bakery. We specialize in artfully packaged, fresh, simple treats like fruit-filled shortbread bars, homemade preserves, clementine cakes, and lemon-lavender butter cookies. Our ingredients are all local and seasonal – some are even from our garden! I love helping others mark a special occasion, or create a fun experience for their families or celebrate loved ones with a gift of treats during these unusual times. You can find our menu, promotions and place orders on Facebook. Just search “Orange Butter Bakery” or email johanna@orangebutterbakery.com. Mention Brits in LA for 10% off your first order!
