Meet Rachael Ruby George from London who moved to LA ten years ago to pursue writing and theatre.
Was there a particular reason you chose LA?
I believed it was a place where anything was creatively possible and yes, it’s true (such as leaving your house without an umbrella).
What do you miss most from home?
Walnut whips, M&S and Covent Garden, especially during the holidays. I do miss mooching around the famous markets with a nice hot coco and mittens.
What was your first impression of LA and has it changed since?
It was all new, shiny and very sunny, but at twenty-three I came to work hard, explore the artistic scene for actors and writers and learn from others. Yes, it has changed. Even my neighbourhood to gentrification. I do expect all cities to change, as people do. We all grow and evolve, don’t we? LA will always be a transitional place where people come, go and find themselves amongst diverse nomads, creatives and sun-seekers. I love that my journey has allowed me to spend so much of my life here. A lot of issues have been brought to the surface recently showing us all a lot of systemic flaws. We have had time to reflect on domestic issues which are being addressed and I hope, remedied slowly. But not one place is perfect. I believe people here do want changes for the better though so I’m ready for the city to evolve and unite again.
What do you find the biggest difference is living here versus London?
Driving and community. You truly do need to drive here if you want to get anywhere on time! Whereas in London, it is optional and just a great way to get around the city. You must also make the effort to seek out your community here too, verses in England where you can just go to the pub! Brits in LA has always been so wonderful!
Do you have a hidden gem in LA that you want to share with us?
Rose and Blanc Tea House (301 S Western Ave #202, in Koreatown. Roseandblanctearoom.com)
A very sweet treat indeed. I have found a lot of very pink, floral happiness here at many different events such as friends’ birthdays, baby showers, bridal showers and just for tea with friends. I definitely get my fix of scones, cream, jam and perfect petite sandwiches plus of course, a very decent cuppa tea.
What would you suggest to others who are thinking about making the move here?
It is very diverse and nitty-gritty in this city which is made up of so many different vibes – there is absolutely something for everyone. Don’t expect a place to make you happy, however. Be happy first, then move.
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?
Everything you miss is just a flight away or you can probably find it at Kitty O’Shea’s!
Lastly, how can we find out more about you? Are you working on anything at the moment?
Absolutely! My writing adventures are tied up in two new low budget feature films with my writing partners from “TheOutsideWriters.com,” a second novel, a short film set to film this fall, a children’s channel “Mango Jambo Kids” which features all original songs and stories and a new podcast appropriately titled “The Girl BOSS Next Door” where I write and co-host with LA native Jill Santibanez. We talk to and share the journeys of inspirational women from all over, who have started their own businesses, have written a book or have a product they are proud to share with us from vegan makeup lines to wellness coaching, homemade perfumes and bed linens! Connect with Jill and I via Facebook and Instagram at “The Girl Boss Next Door” as we welcome all women, regardless of their gender at birth, all WOC and of all abilities to connect with us and share their stories on our weekly podcast. We would be delighted to interview fellow Brits in LA members, so don’t be shy and say hi.
