Meet Michelle LaRue: Actress / Writer / Entrepreneur

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

Hi Michelle, do you have some perspective or insight you can share with us on the question of when someone should give up versus when they should keep going?
I saw a meme on Instagram the other day that said “Mary Kate and Ashley didn’t get Full House till they were 6 months old. Never stop the hustle. Keep pushing. It’ll happen.” Initially, I laughed, which was quickly followed by envy, and finally, peace. I have made a commitment to myself to “keep going” and evolve in the entertainment industry – whether acting, writing, producing or beyond – for my entire life. I am happier being involved than not being involved, so why not continue to grow and do my best to enjoy my journey rather than beat myself down for not reaching certain benchmarks by certain ages in my life? I think people always keep going in life and there shouldn’t be such a harsh stigma with “giving up.” Think of it as pivoting instead!

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I have been professionally acting in Los Angeles since graduating from USC ten years ago. If you asked me on graduation day where my career would be in ten years, I would say without a doubt that I would be a series regular on a TV show by now or traveling the world acting in major films. Not the case. It is hard. I have learned a lot along the way. Throughout my journey, I have taken acting classes many different places and prepared auditions with many different coaches. I think it has been beneficial to cast the learning net wide, and then use bits and pieces from different schools of thought that work for me. Acting class has been an amazing networking tool as well. It is so important to have relationships with like minded, driven creatives to experience the ups and the downs with because they get it! In addition to the support of mentors, coaches and peers, having a solid partnership at home has been key to me overcoming career challenges. I have learned along the way to not sweat the small stuff and to let things go! I prepare, I do my best, I have fun and then I let it go. There is so much more to my career – and my life! – than one audition. I am most proud of my consistency and most excited for the fruits of that labor to blossom in future projects!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
It is no secret that Los Angeles is filled with gems all over the city! I live in Hermosa Beach, so many of my favorite go-to spots are in the South Bay! If a friend is coming to visit, the first stop on our list is always Simmzy’s in Manhattan Beach. The restaurant has a gorgeous view of the Manhattan Beach pier, an extensive beer list, homemade sangria, excellent food and you have to get a 50/50 Haystack (a mound of half shoe string/half sweet potato fries with blue cheese dressing and wing sauce – it’s heavenly). From there, we would probably spend several days enjoying the beautiful sunshine at the beach and some of the South Bay’s excellent eateries. We would definitely hop on beach cruisers to ride up and down the Strand, join in on beach games with locals, and bring good books to read while soaking in some rays. For brunch one day, a visit to Martha’s on 22nd St in Hermosa is a must. On other days for lunch, we would definitely stop at one of our local markets – either Boccato’s or The Green Store – for fresh made sandwiches to eat on the sand. Dinner options in the South Bay are delicious, too. My personal favorites are Manhattan Beach Post – must try the bacon cheddar biscuits! – and Palmilla, which has excellently crafted margaritas and homemade tortillas. After a few days in the South Bay, I would probably plan a day or two at Terranea in Rancho Palos Verdes. This resort is less than thirty minutes from the South Bay and you feel like you’re in another world – it is stunning. We would go hiking on the local trails, enjoy the resort pool, visit the spa, and end the evening sipping on wine and listening to live music at Nelson’s. I love showing friends a good time through cold drinks, delicious food, sunshine and relaxation while they are visiting me in Southern California. It is so good for the soul! Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My shoutout has to start with my parents. They have supported me with everything they have from the time I was six or seven years old and told them I wanted to be an actress, to the day I graduated from USC and reminded them that instead of pursuing a career in the subject of my degree: Journalism – I still wanted to pursue a professional career as an actress. I think it is really special for parents to be “all in” with their children’s dreams and for that, I am forever grateful. Next would be my fiancé, Andy. It is not easy being the partner of an actor! He approaches every day – and every weird audition I have – with support and flexibility. His stability and love are truly what lift me up and help me keep going between jobs. Career “lows” are not so low with him in my life. I love you, Andy! Third, I would like to thank someone I do not know personally but who I feel is a sister: Gabby Bernstein. Her spiritual guidance has really helped me through some challenging times. I think having a spiritual guide, belief or ritual that you can do on your own to connect with your deeper being is very grounding. Finally, I would like to shout out all the fierce females blazing trails in the entertainment industry. You know who you are and you inspire me every single day!

Website: www.MichelleMLaRue.com

Instagram: @MichelleMLaRue

Linkedin: Michelle LaRue

Twitter: @ShelLaRue

Image Credits
Rand Holdren, The Riker Brothers, Nicole Shipley, Alisha Mullally, Jack Murgatroyd