We had the good fortune of connecting with Holly Owen and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Holly, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I wrote my book, “Quit Playing Yourself,” after another disappointing relationship imploded, just as the world shut down. Left with plenty of time on my hands, I decided to do a deep-dive into why I chose the partners I did. I love walking and taking pictures, and on one of my walks, I had an epiphany. I began matching the quotes I was writing to the pictures I was taking, and the project, originally started just for me, took on a life of its own. I don’t know that I chose it so much as it chose me.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
“Quit Playing Yourself” is a unique 150-page full color self-help art book that features a beautiful collection of original photographs of New Orleans streetscapes paired with bold quotes focusing on self-empowerment and interpersonal relationships.

Broken into chapters, “The Dating Game,” “Pause, Reset” and “The Next Level,” it will take you on an emotional roller-coaster ride from pain and regret to healing and growth. Each page challenges you to rethink your relationship to yourself and to others, and never settle for less than you deserve.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I love taking friends on the streetcar, walking around the Lower Garden District, popping by The Columns Hotel or Hotel St Vincent, eating at Jacques Imo’s. And somewhere for live music – Toulouse Theatre, The Broad Theater, The Maple Leaf – wherever the best show is that night.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I want to thank all of my friends who encouraged me as I was writing the book, read its first drafts, and purchased it upon publication. I truly appreciate all of their love and support.

Website: https://www.hollidayhousebooks.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chezhollidaydesign/

Other: https://www.amazon.com/Quit-Playing-Yourself-Holly-Owen/dp/1958729019

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.