We had the good fortune of connecting with Eric Guilmette and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Eric, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
As cliché as it may sound, the creatives chose me.
My background is in mathematics and finance. I was all set to work on Wall Street after college… a very logic-based way of thinking… and instead, I did what very few logical minds would do and gambled on myself… I booked a one-way ticket to Australia to travel and experience more life.
I really didn’t have much of a plan. I was fitness coaching online at the time and knew I’d find work at a bar or cafe there. And I did.
But the thing that I knew most was that I wanted to explore myself a lot more while I was exploring the world. I knew I’d excel in whatever I put my mind to. Most importantly, I knew I’d be happier on this pursuit more-so than settling for something that really didn’t set my soul on fire.
Low and behold, I abruptly found myself in Southern California after a few years of globe-trotting. And that’s where the creatives found me.
Immediately, I began modeling full-time, followed by acting classes and eventually acting full-time in commercials and film/TV…. plus many other creative facets that I’ve discovered along the way. I consider myself a creative entrepreneur more-so than just one or two distinct classifications.
Ever since I started this creative career, I didn’t just like it, I knew this was EXACTLY where I was supposed to be. Professionally, personally, spiritually – even location – I’ve felt more alive, in control, free, and just overall happier every single day since. Those feelings have only amplified with time, as I dug deeper into these artistic industries.
The best parts, for me, are the beautiful relationships I’ve made along the way… some incredible humans that have changed my life forever and will always be a forever to me.
I’m lucky I found all of this 3 years ago. Looking back, I’m so proud of all that I’ve accomplished… But looking forward, buckle up, because this is one hell of a ride.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’ve been a full-time model for 3 years. I first started as a fitness model, and have since transitioned to fashion, beauty, lifestyle, and many other subsets in between. While it’s taken a hell of a lot of work, it is something that has felt very natural for me.
Acting came after modeling. It was not as easy. It is still something I work at each day, and feel I am constantly improving on. I’ve filmed 6 movies so far, only a couple have come out, but my biggest film yet is set to begin production in January 2023 where I am in a major supporting role. This is definitely what I’m most excited about in my career right now and can’t wait to showcase my talents in this production that is built around a beautiful story.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I’m lucky because one of my two best friends does live in SoCal near me.
But my other best friend just came out to visit. I live in Long Beach, so we showed him a lot of the LBC and the beautiful beaches south of me.
I also got to bring him to a fashion show I walked at in LA.
One of my favorite places he got to see was Rafi Lounge in Malibu. I’ve been a member there for nearly a year… the energy you feel when you walk into that place is unlike any other place in LA. This is a beautiful community that the owner, Rafi Anteby, built during the pandemic. He has become a friend and mentor to me, and I highly recommend to anyone who wants to go deeper into themselves that you visit while you are in LA.
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?
Sam, one of my “forevers”.
I don’t think this person knows the extent of the impact that they’ve had on my life, and they still do, every single day. My heart, my creativity, my drive all of have pieces of Sam in them.
Many will step into your life, a few will give really great directions, but only one or two will actually help drive it, even when they’re not there.
Thanks doll.
Website: etfitnesscoach.com
Instagram: instagram.com/etfitnesscoach
Image Credits
Julia Mindar (@juliamindar_photo) Connor Clayton (@connorclaytonphotography) Elizabeth Trujillo (@blushpix) Tribe Greywolf (@tribegreywolf)