It may come as a surprise to some, but not all Brits in LA members are British, our ever-growing community is made up of people from all over the world, including America, hence our motto, “you don’t have to be British, you just have to like us”. This week’s Meet a Member subject is Nicole Neto from Connecticut, who moved to LA more than three years ago to pursue a career in hairstyling.
Was there a particular reason you chose LA?
I first came to Los Angeles when I was 10 years old on a family vacation. I remember being in the backseat of the car driving up and down the Hollywood Hills and loved it. We went to Universal Studios and I couldn’t believe my eyes! I loved the behind-the-scenes movie making and props. I told my mom “someday I will live in Hollywood”….I’ve been obsessed ever since.
What do you miss most from home?
I miss having PARKING SPOTS! I also miss the first snowfall of winter, and of course, most of all family.
What was your first impression of LA and has it changed since? If so why?
My first impression of LA was ” WHOA this is madness! I don’t know how to parallel park, will I ever get used to this traffic? Almost 4 years later and I have mastered parallel parking, I avoid the 101 altogether and I listen to podcasts to entertain myself in traffic.
What do you find the biggest difference is living here versus Connecticut?
GLUTEN FREE options LOL. I have a gluten free diet (not by choice) and almost every restaurant here has tons of delicious gluten free options.
Do you have a hidden gem in LA that you want to share with us?
Hmmm yes! I have two. Coffee at the Bourgeois Pig in Hollywood- delicious lattes, and you can sit in a little tree house; and Night + Market Song in Silverlake for amazing Thai food that won’t break the bank.
What would you suggest to others who are thinking about making the move here?
Download Marc Maron’s WTF podcast for listening in traffic. Take advantage of free movie screenings. Don’t let traffic scare you. Don’t ever listen to the naysayers, I’m glad I didn’t! Moving across the country was one of the best things I have ever done for myself. Don’t feed into the fear of the unknown, take that leap and know the net will always appear to catch you.
Lots of members join Brits in LA seeking out words of wisdom – what is the best piece of advice you’ve been given?
Be in the moment. All you have is right now. Every thought you have is creating your future.
Lastly, how can we find out more about you?
You can find me at Lucinda Ellery Salon Beverly Hills although I can occasionally be found at their studios in New York or London too – feel free to contact me for a free consultation if you suffer from fine or thinning hair. At Lucinda Ellery we currently offer the following discounts: 10% off for all Brits in LA members and 20% off for Brits in LA Key Members. Or find us online at lucindaellery.com, and follow me on Instagram @nickyv_n
