1) Purple. Just when I thought I had it all - grocery delivery, meal delivery, and alcohol delivery, Purple entered my life. Behold: On Demand Gas delivery. I know what you're thinking - 'Ellen, you are a lazy bum and going to the gas station is hardly an inconvenience. Stop being lazy and paying a premium for gas delivery!' But guess what? It's somehow cheaper than the gas stations I pass to and from work. Especially that $4 a gallon station on the corner of Beverly and La Cienega...you know what I'm talking about. Some way and some how, Purple has managed to give you inexpensive gas and no extra costs for delivery or tipping. 
How to use the glory that is Purple: Make an account. Log your car info (license plate, car photo, make and model) pick unleaded 87 or 91 and 10 or 15 gallons. The price listed will be average gas price in the area your car is listed. 3 Hour Delivery is free, or One Hour Delivery is $1. Just tell them where your car is and leave the gas lid open. Mind. Blown. I haven't been to the gas station in months and I'm pretty sure my life is better for it. 
Three cheers for LA being one of the first places to get crazy apps. Want to try it? Use my promo code (CKPQX) for $10 off and we all win. 

2) Uber Eats. No, not the original Uber App that was home to a half-assed "Eats" section. I'm talking the individual brand new Uber Eats app. Previously a Postmates loyalist, I never knew there was room in my heart for something new and improved. Now, I'm all about that Uber Eats life. The selection is smaller but way easier to navigate, and they offer both instant (5-10 min) pre set menu options AND full menus from a variety of partners. Uber Eats never fails me during my times of desperate food needs. Bonus points: the customer service for this app somehow blows regular Uber out of the water. I had an issue with an order and they refunded it, no questions asked. Boom! I'm in love. 

3) ClassPass. Sure, this is a website too. But we're going to call it an app for the purposes of today. I spent most of 2015 secretly thinking all my ClassPass using friends were part of a fitness cult that I just didn't understand, so to say me joining Classpass was a turn of events, is an understatement. Flash Forward to March 2016, one month into my ClassPass membership and I'm checking out the app all day long, scoping out which classes have opened up and how I can make my schedule even better. I've since spent the last month scheduling classes at every studio I can get my hands on, trying everything from Surfset at Sandbox Fitness to a questionable Pilates location in a strip mall that ended up being AWESOME (I'm looking at you Love for Pilates). Special shoutouts to my favorite studios so far: Playlist Yoga and Training Mate. If you're like Ellen circa 2015 and are team anti-ClassPass, I highly recommend just giving it a go for a month and see what you think. There are SO many awesome studios in this fitness mecca we call LA, it's worth a shot. You might just find some studios you love. 

Name: Ashley Nicole Woodcock
Age: 30
Hometown: Moorestown, NJ – though I tell everyone I’m from Philly because honestly….who’s heard of my hometown?
College: Villanova University, FIDM

When did you move to LA? 2009 aka centuries ago

What made you want to move to LA?
Ok, I’ll admit it. I was sitting in my apartment in Philly after work one day, still wearing my uniform pants suit, when The Hills came on MTV. Born and raised a conservative East Coaster, the fabulous fashion forward life of Lauren Conrad seemed completely unattainable, yet I couldn’t help but wonder….why not me?

At the time I was working as a financial IT auditor for the largest accounting firm in the world, when I began spending my nights skipping the Manayunk bar circuit and teaching myself how to sketch. After watching an episode where Lauren attends class, I wrote down the name of her fashion school that popped up on the bottom of the tv screen; FIDM was my new goal. After months of prepping a home grown portfolio, I applied and was accepted. That following week I walked into my partner’s office at the firm and quit – set out to live the Hollywood dream.
 
What was the most challenging part of the move to LA? 
Finding an apartment in the right neighborhood. I picked an area on the map and went with it. Granted, I’m old and that was about 7 years ago, so there are much better ways to search these days. In LA, each pocket or “bubble” I should say, has it’s own personality, and because of traffic you basically don’t want to leave your bubble…so choose a neighborhood that suits you!
 
How did your job hunt go down?
I started talking to anyone and everyone. A girl in one of my classes at FIDM referred me to her bar so I could waitress while in school. I stayed with that bar for four years until I became a manager. I worked as many night shifts as possible after my fashion gigs were done – word of advice – you’re never too good to work in a bar. Then I would find freelance styling work from people I met in classes, bars, clubs, literally anywhere.  I got an internship at Ford Models and started my own runway production company within a year. I went from styling editorials and commercials to producing shows of Project Runway designers. It was a blast, but the minimal pay and sleepless nights put me back in my original field of finance. Now I am the Manager of Finance and Operations at a technology start-up in Santa Monica. Thanks Villanova :)
 
What area are you living in? 
Right now I live in Marina Del Rey, but I have been around the block. I started off in Silverlake where my first apartment was on Alvarado Blvd….don’t go there. Silverlake has some fun parts but that is not one of them. Although the Red Lion Tavern is pretty cool if you like German beer. Next I moved to West Hollywood where my inner party girl came out and I frequented the club scene, like, every night. This is the prime area for the young and the young at heart. Great area for someone just moving to LA. There’s tons of things to do and places to go, all in the same area.
From there, I moved a little further out to Miracle Mile, across from LACMA. I thought I was “growing up”. Nope. Lastly, but certainly not least, I moved to the Westside. Began my beach bum journey in Santa Monica and now am an old married lady in the Marina. I personally love the Westside the best, but my husband is also from Southbay so we are biased. I love living by the beach and riding my bike through Venice.
 
What's your favorite thing about Los Angeles?
Obviously, the weather! It sounds cliché but it’s true. There are lots of other things I like, but the weather is what I love. It’s definitely what has kept me here longer than I thought I would stay. Well, the weather and my husband!
 
Tell us  your favorite 3 things to recommend to new Angelenos
 
1. Eat food! You MUST check out the restaurant scene. The unique and innovative food culture is really starting to achieve new levels of points with me. From white oak truffle tagliatelle to shellfish in a vadouvan curry broth, here are SOME of my faves by area (not in order):
 
Westside: Cassia, Ado, Scopa, Fork in the Road, Manchego, Tasting Kitchen
WeHo: Mare, Salt’s Cure, Jones, AOC, Son of a Gun
DTLA: Spring Street, 6th Street Tavern, Zinc Café & Market
 
2. Drink wine! You must make the trek out to Malibu Winery at least once to enjoy a picnic amongst the vines while listening to live music and sipping affordable bottles among friends. Don’t forget your big, floppy hat ladies.
 
3. Get out of town! Take advantage of LA’s proximity to other gorgeous and exciting cities and escape the LA hassle, I mean hustle, from time to time. With places like San Diego, Vegas, and Santa Barbara within arms’ reach there’s no excuse not to get the travel bug.
 
Any advice you would give to someone who is planning to make the move to LA? 
When you get here, no matter what, never lose sight of who you are. You’ll understand and thank me later.
 
Want to follow along on Ashley's LA journey? Follow her on Instagram!
@lexiwoodsy

Name: Dani June Sauriol
Age: 25
Hometown: DuPont, WA
College: University of Washington

When did you move to LA? October 7th, 2012. 

What made you want to move to LA? Honestly, I have no idea. FATE, probably (jk). After I graduated college, I knew I wanted to move away from home, but I hadn’t been anywhere besides Washington and Disneyland, so I didn’t even know where to start. It didn’t help that I had no idea what I wanted to do for a living, either. But I did know this about myself -- I liked watching funny things on TV. I often thought that one day I’d like to write funny things for TV. I woke up soon after and decided, “LA sounds nice.” So, I started saving for the move.

What was the most challenging part of the move to LA? Transitioning from having a town full of friends, to having one single friend was the hardest for me (shoutout 2 Tessa Trudeau, ride or die, bitches for life). It was a very long time before I had another friend in LA. I worked with a sack of oldies, so I rarely got to interact with other people my age. I started hitting on girls at bars, for lack of a better phrase, trying to get them to be friends with me. But, that got really weird. Plus, no chicks were calling me back. Today, I don’t know how I got so lucky. I somehow managed to find the most genuine, caring, hilarious group of friends I could ever hope for. Every day I feel like I’m on the cast of Now and Then and I’m Christina Ricci. 

How did your job hunt go down?  It was the worst! Once I finally found an apartment and settled in, I had maybe a month’s worth of money left. With no time to search for a job I could be passionate about, I did what I had to and took a dumb job answering dumb phones at a dumb company full of weirdos. I worked there for six months, developed some serious bookkeeping skills, and found another job in the accounting department at Alcon Entertainment. I worked at Alcon for two years. In March of this year, it occurred to me: “hey, this is actually the complete opposite of writing funny things for television,” and decided it was time to redirect my career path. From there, I was lucky enough to land a job at McBeard Media in their Creative Accounts department, where I’m currently working. Right now, I do a lot of copywriting for brands on social media. It’s the most fun I’ve ever had at a job. I also just launched my own blog [shameless plug, check out thesinglest.com]. So, maybe writing on the Internet is my new shtick? My end-goal may change, but I know that I always want to be writing, in some capacity.

What area are you living in? I live in Brentwood and I wouldn’t say I LOVE it. I definitely love my apartment – it kicks my old apartment’s ass. I like that there’s a Chipotle a few blocks away, but that’s nothing special. Chipotle is a geographical oddity – it’s 3 blocks from everywhere. Overall, it’s a quaint neighborhood, and my parents can visit without dodging bums and garbage on the street.   

What's your favorite thing about Los Angeles? I’m always warm, I’m never bored, and a good taco is never more than a short walk away. 

Tell me your favorite 3 spots to recommend to new Angelenos:

1. Echi Sushi – People. Listen up. I’ve said it once (a thousand times), and I’ll say it again. Echi is where it’s fucking at. They have A+ outdoor seating, Happy Hour ALL DAY EVERY DAY, and the most exquisite albacore sushi you will ever taste. I will get married on the doorstep of Echi Sushi.
2. Hollywood Improv – if you like to laugh, you’ve gotta go to the Improv, or any LA comedy show for that matter. There are some seriously talented comedians among us, and they perform really terrific standup. I would tell you my secret comedy spot, but then it wouldn’t be a secret anymore (sorry).
3. Belwood Bakery – If you’re not ready for the most delicious breakfast sandwich of your life, don’t come here. Even thinking about it makes me wish it were Saturday morning so I could walk over there in my PJs and order one. Did I mention LA’s best bakery is next door to my apartment? #blessed

Any advice you would give to someone who is planning to make the move to LA? Always check parking signs, don’t take the 405 between 5 and 7 pm, and don’t walk alone down La Brea after dark. Oh, and, have an open mind. This city will really grow on you if you let it. Detach from your hometown, if you can. Embrace your new home, and enjoy the ride. 

Want to follow along with Dani's LA journey? 
You can find her on Twitter and Instagram at @danijunebug 
OR read about her 20something thoughts as she navigates LA...on her blog: thesinglest.com

Name: Cait Donahue
Age: 27
Hometown: Paxton, MA 
College: Suffolk University - Boston, MA

When did you move to LA? 2010

What made you want to move to LA? I visited my mom's best friend who lives in Hermosa Beach when I was 16 years old. I loved the vibe and everything I saw so much I knew I needed to be here.

What was the most challenging part of the move to LA? Finding a "big girl job" and finding real friends. Since I came after college it was harder. A lot of people make friends at school, once you're out of school people aren't necessarily looking for new friends, so I had to find them. 

How did your job hunt go down? I came fresh out of college and I was very optimistic, probably a little too much so, that it would be so easy to find a dream job. Turns out, not so much! I worked off of savings for a bit but eventually I had to take a part time job because I was getting nervous. I worked at Vans in Santa Monica for a bit until I did end up finding my first "real" job where I worked for three awesome years. I actually ended up finding it on craigslist but I was looking and interviewing for literally anything. I used all the job search engines, I even walked into certain companies with my resume in hand hoping they might have openings. 

What area are you living in?  I moved from the west side last august to East Hollywood by Los Feliz. I actually have good things to say about both areas. I lived in West LA for the first four years in LA and it was great - close to the beach, close to the freeways, close to my first group of friends. I came to LOVE main street Santa Monica as a go to for anything. When I moved to the east side, I was getting my own place, so its cheaper to live over here. I am finding I am closer to a lot of things in general in the city, which is totally nice because traffic can be a pain. It's awesome to have my own one apartment and a bunch of my friends live over here so it is easier to plan and do things.

What's your favorite thing about Los Angeles? There is ALWAYS something to do here. And the city doesn't shut down during the week. Because a lot of people in LA don't work your usual 9-5 job there are always events and things during the week as well as the weekend. Which is cool. And tiring. But still really cool. 

Tell me your favorite 3 spots to recommend to new Angelenos:
1) Even though I live super far away now, Basement Tavern on Main Street in Santa Monica is awesome. It was a really cool vibe, live music, chalk board walls and a room with guitar hero! 

2)  I love doing the hollywood sign hike. It's less crowded than runyon and very cool to get that close to the famous hollywood sign. 

3) The Standard in West Hollywood. It's one of my favorite places to go for pool use. They let non-hotel guests use the pool if you spend $30 on food or drink. Which is fine because the food is good and you're having a pool day, you're gonna want some drinks! It's nice to know that they let non-guests in for us who are pool-less. ;)

Any advice you would give to someone who is planning to make the move to LA? 
Try new things. There are tons of new things here in LA and that's how I made the majority of my amazing friends. Just say yes! What's the worst that could happen? You don't like it? Don't go again - that's it! That and talk to people. You never know who you're gonna meet, it could be your new best friend, or a new employer. 

Keep up with Cait's LA Journey here:
instagram: @ktd 
twitter: @kt__d 

Name: Brittany Lewis
Age: 25 
Hometown: Cincinnati
College: University of Cincinnati

When did you move to LA? July 2013.

What made you want to move to LA?
I could say it was the beach or the sunshine or the mountains or the palm trees. Or the fact that I graduated with an Electronic Media degree. But I think it was because of something more than all of that. It was a belly feeling that I was lucky enough to realize and actually pursue.

What was the most challenging part of the move to LA? 
Leaving my family. Hands down. Still is.

How did your job hunt go down? 
I saved money before I came with the intentions of finding a job out here. Two weeks in LA, I was lucky enough to find my first job through a friend. I was a Social Media Manager; however, the company was acquired and transferred their office to Chicago. I nannied for longer than I expected, but some of my favorite memories are with those little nuggets. I also briefly worked for a PR & Marketing company and was a Street Artist Representative before my current job as a Production Assistant at Sony Pictures Animation. 

What area are you living in? 
My first year here, I lived in West Hollywood. I currently live in Venice. Both are great places for different reasons, but Venice is my jam. I love riding my bike everywhere and being 5 minutes from the ocean. I have definitely stepped up my beach game and the vibes are more relaxed than anywhere else. 

What's your favorite thing about Los Angeles?
"It's not where you are, it's who you're with that matters." It's a saying for a reason people. My friends are what truly make living out here so ridiculously fun. We could be reptiles or live in a sewer and still have a good time. Just kidding we would be way more awesome. #TMNT Mind you, it does help that we live in a city with so much to do and way too much to see. And the fact that we can arrange last minute road trips to San Diego, Santa Barbara, Las Vegas, San Francisco, Palm Springs, Mammoth, Big Bear, Lake Tahoe...yada yada yada. 

Tell me your favorite 3 spots to recommend to new Angelenos 
1. Mandeville Canyon for the views
2. Joan's On Third for the noms
3. Modo Yoga for the oms

Any advice you would give to someone who is planning to make the move to LA? 
This town is all about who you know and who they know and who all of those people may know. And if you don't know people, like I didn't, just enjoy yourself in whatever you are doing. Remember everything is temporary and that new opportunities come and go so quickly here. As long as you have a positive attitude, you'll get to where you need to be.

Socials you want to share (instagram, twitter, other): 
Instagram: Blewsteel
Website: Blewart.com

Name: Tessa Trudeau
Age: 25
Hometown: Seattle, WA
College: University of Washington
When did you move to LA? October 1, 2012

What made you want to move to LA?
I had never wanted to or even thought about moving to LA, but my best friend Dani always talked about it. I didn’t really think she was that serious, so I always said, “Yeah, sure! I’ll move with you!” But when she graduated a year before me she said she was going to wait for me to graduate and we would move together. Of course I said, “Okay, sounds good!” but in the back of my head I was saying, “Yeah right!” As time went on and she’d bring it up, I realized I had to actually get serious about it. On the day of my graduation my parents took me to dinner, and in the middle of our meal my mom asked if I thought I was actually going to move. I immediately started crying (the waiter kept avoiding us), because that was when it really hit me: I was going to do it. The thought of leaving my family and friends and my wonderful city of Seattle terrified me, but I knew it was something I needed to do for myself. I know that I want to eventually settle down in Seattle one day, so I knew if I was ever going to get out for a while, it needed to be then.

 What was the most challenging part of the move to LA? 
The most challenging part of the move was not already having a place to live, or really having any specific game plan at all. We left Seattle with all of our life’s belongings stuffed into Dani’s Jetta, and, quite literally, drove off into the sunset. We stayed the first night in Portland with our friend Robyn, and then set off the next day for San Francisco, where we stayed the next three nights with friends before making the final leg of the drive to LA. 

On Monday afternoon, we set off for LA, where we were going to be sleeping on my high school friend’s couch (this arrangement wasn’t finalized until the day of). He and his roommate worked construction and were out of the apartment from 4 AM to 6 PM every day, so luckily they weren’t there to witness all my tears. And there were A LOT. We started our apartment hunt the next morning, and we saw some real winners (joking). It was so terrifying for me because neither of us had even visited LA before and didn’t really know the areas. We knew we wanted to be in West Hollywood (why? I’m not quite sure), but if you don’t know WeHo, a lot of areas seem kind of sketchy, even if they really aren’t. By Wednesday, we had found an apartment at a large housing community near The Grove (which will remain unnamed because I don’t want to get sued), and to us it seemed like heaven on earth. We even went out for Umami Burger to celebrate. After putting down a security deposit, we heard from a friend of a friend who we’d been put in contact with that *unnamed apartment community* was “a horrible place to live” (her words) and that we should not under any circumstances sign the lease. When she threw the word “cockroaches” out, we panicked. This was enough to send me over the edge, and I called my parents crying (again) thinking that I had failed and was going to have to head back up to Seattle. After calming me down and talking some sense into me, I agreed to stay in LA and to not give up. 

Side note: having supportive parents was EVERYTHING to me. Knowing they were a phone call away to calm my fears and offer advice was truly wonderful. My dad was even prepared to co-sign on an apartment, as we were fresh out of college, didn’t have a whole lot of credit, and there was the whole “we don’t have jobs yet” thing, which is another story. 

The next day, we were able to get our *unnamed apartment community* security deposit back, and we went back to look at an apartment we had already viewed, which ended up being our home sweet home for the next two years. 

How did your job hunt go down?
Dani found a job pretty quickly through that previously mentioned friend of a friend, so I spent my days alone in our apartment crying, job hunting, and having mild panic attacks. I applied to probably 50 different listings on Craigslist, heard back from like, two, and eventually interviewed with them. In actuality, I really had no idea what I wanted to do with my very broad Communications degree, but I was pretty good at faking it. “Fake it ‘til you make it” became my mantra, and I seriously believe in this notion today.

My mom had a friend of a friend of a friend who lived in LA, and she wanted me to reach out to them, which I kept refusing to do. I am kind of horrible at accepting help, but my desperation finally kicked in and I gave her a call. In a roundabout way, this call CHANGED MY LIFE. Seriously people, DON’T BE AFRAID TO ACCEPT HELP. Believe it or not, there are people out there who are nice and want to help you if they can. This wonderful gal I spoke to gave me some awesome advice about life and LA in general. She also emailed me a list of websites she’s used to find jobs, and one of them is where I ended up finding my job (praise you, Hollywood Temp Diaries.) 

Another piece of advice: even if a job says it’s supposed to start on the exact day you are reading the listing, APPLY ANYWAY. I came across a listing for an editorial internship at InStyle Magazine, and the start date was the next day (cue straight-faced emoji K). I said ‘screw it’ and applied anyway, and guess what? I heard back the next day, and they wanted me to come in for an interview. A mild freak out ensued. I immediately went to The Grove (where else?) to pick out an outfit, and the next day I went in for the interview. They wanted me to complete an edit test, which I did the second I got home, and this led to a second interview. Another freak out ensued. Ten minutes after the interview, I was on my way home when an unknown number called, and it was them saying I got the job. MAJOR FREAK OUT ENSUED. 

Long story short, I interned for nine months, got to work on our amazing events, including the InStyle/Warner Bros. Golden Globes Party, and eventually got hired on full time as an editorial assistant. And I’m still here to this day! Sometimes things just have a way of working out.

What area are you living in? (expand a little bit--say if you love it, why you love it) 
We lived in West Hollywood for two years before moving to Brentwood. WeHo was great, and definitely a great place to start out in LA. It took some time for it to grow on me, but I really did end up loving it, and we venture back to that side of town a lot still. In my opinion, Brentwood is great location-wise because it’s pretty much in the middle of WeHo and Santa Monica. It’s super safe, and there are so many little shops and great places to eat (hello Tavern…and Chipotle…and Lemonade…and Coral Tree). I am also five minutes from work, which is honestly the best thing to ever happen to me. Also, there’s a ton of people with dogs, which, if you know me, is a big deal.

What's your favorite thing about Los Angeles?
My favorite thing about Los Angeles is the weather! I am a born and bred Seattleite, so rain isn’t something that terribly bothered me growing up, but I guess I just didn’t know what I was missing. I can honestly say that the constant sunshine and warm weather puts you in a better mood. Seasonal depression is a real thing, people! Here in sunny LA, I can wear whatever shoes I want without being afraid they’ll get ruined in the rain, I can work out outdoors whenever I want (hiking, running, wearing yoga pants and pretending to exercise), and sundresses are a way of life. There is also always something to do. From First Fridays in Venice, to yoga classes on the Santa Monica Pier, to outdoor movie screenings, it’s almost impossible to be bored in LA.

Tell us your favorite 3 spots to recommend to new Angelenos 

• Gjelina. My favorite restaurant hands down. The menu changes seasonally, so there’s always something new to try, and the plates are perfect for sharing so you can get a little bit of everything. I’m obsessed. Go to plates: carmelized onion and Gruyere pizza, anything with beets & burrata, and their salads are amazing. And the butterscotch pots de crème for dessert. It is TO. DIE. FOR.
• Los Liones Canyon for hiking. This hike is great because you can make it as easy or hard as you want. I’ve done it hungover, so it’s definitely something everyone can do. But if you want a really good workout, you can continue on after reaching the first plateau at the top, and it will kick your ass.
• Fairfax Flea Market/Melrose Trading Post. Whatever you want to call it. I’ve only been once, but it was so great and there is so much to see. They have food trucks, and you can literally find anything you’re looking for there. And it’s only 2 or 3 bucks to get in. It could also totally work as a fun date (maybe not first date…)

Any advice you would give to someone who is planning to make the move to LA? 
Thinking back to my experience, I was so naïve and really didn’t know what to expect. I would definitely suggest visiting and exploring LA before moving (I can’t believe I moved here without visiting). If you don’t have friends you can stay with, do some research, get an Airbnb, and take a look around to see what area you want to be in. My other advice I would give, as I previously said, is to take help when it’s offered. Use your network to your advantage. I posted on LinkedIn that I was new to LA and looking for jobs (I felt really lame doing it, but who cares), and I ended up getting an interview because of it. Even if a job doesn’t work out, interviewing is good experience and prepares you for that one job down the road that really matters.

Want to hear more? You can find Tessa on Instagram and twitter: @tessanora

Name: Rachael Kester
Age: 26
Hometown: Springfield, VA
College: Virginia Tech
When did you move to LA? June 2014

What made you want to move to LA?  
I was actually 100% against moving to LA but my boyfriend (now fiancé) was graduating from med school and ranked Children’s Hospital Los Angeles as his #1. Although I was kind of hoping he would get Hopkins, his #2, so I could move back to the east coast (we were living in Memphis), his wishes came true and we were Cali bound. 

What was the most challenging part of the move to LA? 
The most challenging part was definitely picking up my life and heading halfway across the country—not knowing anyone except for Evan. I quit my job as a teacher with Teach For America and headed west in hopes of finding not only a new career but also a brand new set of friends. All while experiencing living with a boy for the first time! Ahh!! Although there are soooo many people in the city, it definitely takes time to find your people, something I still struggle with sometimes one year later. 

How did your job hunt go down? 
Evan was matched in March so we had three months to plan before we officially moved. After working as an elementary school teacher with TFA for three years, I decided to focus my search on the nonprofit sector. I used Idealist to find jobs that interested me and had a few interviews before we even stepped foot in CA. Although those didn’t pan out, it was only a month after we moved that I was offered the job that I still have today at a nonprofit in Sherman Oaks. 

What area are you living in?
I live in Hollywood but right on the border of WeHo. I love it because it seems pretty easy to get everywhere I need to go—especially work since I can hop on the 101 or take Laurel Canyon. I wish it was a little more walkable and a bit easier to get to Santa Monica but our rooftop pool makes up for most of that! 

What's your favorite thing about Los Angeles? 
I love that you can live here forever and never come close to trying and seeing everything LA has to offer. New restaurants, stores, and juice bars open up weekly and it’s hard to be bored. When I do feel bored I just head up to the pool with a book because chances are, it’s 75 and sunny! 

Tell us your favorite 3 spots to recommend to new Angelenos. 
I shockingly haven’t yet mentioned that I started an LA fitness blog, Sweat and Repeat, in October that has not only changed my body but also sparked a greater love for LA. 

Here are three studios that you should definitely check out, you might even see me there! 

1. Cycle House: Yep, they now have a TV show on E!, but they also kick my butt and give me the best sweat every single time. I walk out of there floating on a cloud of endorphins, and the free shoes, alkaline water, eucalyptus towels, and post sweat apples/bananas also rock. This spin studio is located in the least sketchy and most trendy alleyway in the world, seriously. Sweat and then sip on Alfred’s signature “$10 latte”. 

2. Rise Nation: Remember those climbing machines that no one uses at the gym (you probably don’t), well Rise Nation is bringing those back in a 30 minute workout that makes your heart pound while the coolest lights dance to the music overhead. If that wasn’t enough, they have a stunning patio that overlooks the hills.

3. Pure Barre: This is one of my personal favorites because it’s the studio that got me really excited about boutique fitness classes, months before I even had ClassPass. I like it for days that I want to feel my muscles working—aka 
shaking—but not leave looking like I went through a rainstorm. The 3-minute plank at the start of class doesn’t get easier and the lightweights always feel so heavy 5 seconds in! Don’t underestimate this workout! 

Any advice you would give to someone who is planning to make the move to LA? 
It’s pretty impossible to not want to spend money in this city. After living in Memphis for three years, I’m so thankful for every penny that I saved because there are SO many more that I want to spend. When I first got here, I was sticker shocked that smoothies at my favorite place (Open Source Organics) were a whooping $8. Now, I can’t believe they’re “only” $8 because at my newest favorite place, LA Juice, they’re $10! I guess my advice is just to save up and make sure you can afford to live here—it’s not worth going broke over! 


Socials you want to share: 
Check out my blog www.sweatandrepeat.com and Instagram @sweatandrepeatLA for all the latest fitness happenings in the city. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you need a studio suggestion or want to take a class together!

Name: Holly Benavente
Age: 29
Hometown: Downers Grove, IL
College: University of Illinois

When did you move to LA?
June 2009

What made you want to move to LA?
Sunshine & Lifestyle

I began my dream career as a marketing executive at a top worldwide agency in Chicago in a high rise building downtown. I loved my job, but constantly found myself looking out the window and requesting “sunshine breaks” on nice days. I had dreams about a lifestyle that would enable me to be able to continue the career that I studied and always wanted, but also allow me to work outside occasionally and enjoy the sunshine—people told me this didn’t exist.  I knew I had to move to Los Angeles to see if it did.

What was the most challenging part of the move to LA? 
Leaving my amazing Midwest friends and family

How did your job hunt go down? 
I came out to LA with no job. When you do this, people think you are crazy. I believe if you know what you are looking for, it is much easier to find a job and a better job once you are in LA in the flesh and not googling and applying places online—lets face it, that gets you no where. You need to network!

When I moved out I had a handful of companies I was interested in and few people to network with, but I still allowed myself a full month of what I called “funemployment” in Los Angeles before I got serious about my search. I suggest “funemployment” to everyone moving to a new city —if you have money saved, this is the designated time to check out the city, mingle, network and get your bearings before jumping into something that may not be the right fit. It’s kind of like casually dating before you get into a serious relationship, you have to test the employment waters before you settle down and begin full time somewhere, it will help you find the right work life balance if that is important to you.

After my “funemployment” I was very fortunate to get a short term contract position (off craigslist) with a digital design firm in downtown Los Angeles. It was great because I gained immediate experience working in LA, but overall it wasn’t the right fit long term for me. 

As luck would have it, almost immediately after that contract was up, a separate field marketing position opened up at the agency I was working for in Chicago. I took the position and over the years it has developed into the senior role I have today. It did not come overnight, but I finally have the work from home/sunshine/pool job I always wanted. I am able to travel the country on various marketing programs for my clients and still enjoy the beautiful weather LA has to offer on a daily basis.

Key here is: It doesn’t come overnight. Give yourself time and be patient when you are looking for a job in a new city. Sometimes you have to take A job before you find THE job.

What area are you living in? (expand a little bit--say if you love it, why you love it) 
I lived in West Hollywood for 4 years. I love this part of town – there is so much to do all within blocks of your apartment and it’s always buzzing with energy and excitement. It is a reasonably priced neighborhood and incredibly easy to be social and get to know fun young & creative professionals. I suggest this area for most people I know that are moving to Los Angeles and looking to have some fun as they get acquainted in the new city.

I have now lived in Brentwood for about a year and a half. I moved to check out the west side of town and be closer to the ocean and friends that had moved to Santa Monica and Venice. I appreciate this area in a different way as it is right off the 405 freeway making it much more accessible when traveling to other parts of town, including LAX airport since I travel frequently for work. Brentwood is generally a more quiet neighborhood which is great for me since I work from home. I have multiple cafes, restaurants and great shopping all in walking distance. Being only 12 minutes from the beach is a huge perk and one of my personal favorites of living on the Westside. I try to get out to the beach and catch sunsets as much as possible.

What's your favorite thing about Los Angeles?
My favorite thing about LA is waking up to gorgeous weather 99.9% of the year. It just can’t be beat.

Tell me your favorite 3 spots to recommend to new Angelenos (food, places to go, hikes, anything)

Saddle Rock Ranch- Malibu Vineyards, Malibu (great for dates or afternoon with friends- bring food to picnic)

High Rooftop- The Erwin Hotel, Venice (best place to watch breathtaking sunsets)

Pound Rockout Workout Classes- (Offered at Crunch gyms, Gym@Hayden and more classes are often added and can be found at www.poundfit.com)

Any advice you would give to someone who is planning to make the move to LA? 
There is no time like the present. If you want to make it happen, you can and you will. It may seem overwhelming at first but stay true to your intentions. Stay positive and open-minded in your journey. Always keep your options open and don’t judge things too quickly – there is a ton of culture and richness in this city, you just have to be open to finding it.


You can follow Holly and her LA life here:
Instagram: @Hollywood0785

To kick off 2015, we decided it was time to share our LA Stories. We've absolutely loved reading each of yours, and we look forward to many more. Until then...

Names: 
Ellen Sweeney & Angela Mayhew
Age: 
Ellen 25
Angela 28
Hometown: 
Ellen, Cincinnati Ohio
Angela, Whitesboro, NY
College: 
Ellen, Indiana University
Angela, Saint John Fisher College
When did you move to LA? 
Ellen, June 2011, immediately after college graduation
Angela, January 2011

What made you want to move to LA? 
Ellen: I had explored my options of where to live while I was in college, by doing summer internships in cities I thought I may want to move to after graduation. After interning in LA the summer after sophomore year, I knew I loved it, so I kept it on my radar when considering my post-college game plan. I wanted to go to a booming city with warm weather and endless things to experience - LA seemed like a no brainer.


Angela:  Ever since I can remember, I always wanted to work in the entertainment industry. To do that, I knew that I would have to move to either NYC or LA. Growing up, I had always dreamed of moving to California, and I figured being from NY that opportunity could always be there if I wanted to pursue NYC, so I focused on LA.

What was the most challenging part of the move to LA? 
Ellen: Moving to LA is extremely daunting, and I think fathoming a huge move across the country was the hardest part. I knew a few guys from my internship in LA who had a room open up in their apartment in Bel-Air, who asked if I wanted to move to LA and live with them. I had one week to decide if I wanted to take the room. It took talking to lots of people to help encourage me and advise me on if moving to LA with no job, hardly any friends or support network, was not totally insane. One thing someone told me that ultimately made me take the leap, was that if I don't do it now, I never will. The longer I thought about it or the more years I took to try and move to LA, the less of a chance it would happen. Thanks to them, here I am. 
Oh, and it will be hard sometimes. I am pretty positive I called my mom every day for the first month I was here, telling her I was hopeless, jobless, friendless, and dumb for moving here. Thanks Mom, look at me now!


Angela: I think the most challenging part of moving and getting established is not comparing your “beginning” to someone’s else's “middle”.  When you get here and catch up with old friends/networks and meet new friends, it’s easy to think that everyone seems to have it all together. Apartments/Jobs/Friends/Etc - some people just make it look so easy. Always remember that everyone has to start somewhere and eventually, piece-by-piece things will come together.

How did your job hunt go down? 
Ellen: I moved to LA with no job, and frankly, not even the slightest idea of what I wanted to do once I was here. I had majored in Tourism Management and had some experience in hospitality, so figured that would be a good direction to go upon arrival. There was no long term game plan, just a let's find a job ASAP game plan. I applied to probably 30 places online in my first week to no avail. So one day I decided to go down to Ocean Avenue and walk into some boutique high-end hotels and see if they were hiring. My first choice hotel I walked into offered me an application and an interview on the spot. I came back the next day for a second interview and was offered a job as a server in the hotel restaurant. It's important to note that when you move to LA, you're not above anything. From there, I worked my way into a pool hostess role and then a guest services agent. It's also important to note that during this time,  I also had side gigs as a babysitter for a nice family in Bel Air (met them through the hotel), and as a Event Manager for speed dating events. I literally facilitated speed dating events and blew a whistle telling people when it was time to move on. Reminder: You're not above any job.

From there I worked at the Palazzo Apartments as a Concierge and Event Manager -- it was an awesome year and I met so many wonderful people. After a year, it was time for me to find a career I envisioned myself in more long term. I transitioned out of hospitality and into customer service with Pressed Juicery. From there, I grew into a role as Corporate Sales Manager and now Head of Company Culture, where I am now.


A lot of people come to LA with an agenda of exactly what they want to do with their lives and a game plan of how to reach it, and that's fine. I took a different avenue, of feeling out the industries I was interested in and working my butt off to advance in them. And that hasn't stopped, I am eager to keep on keeping on and see where else LA takes me. 


Angela: I had an interesting scenario where I had a job in Nor Cal that moved me down to Los Angeles for 3 months on a contract gig. After that gig was over I would be on my own. Knowing that, I hustled during that time to network and job search. I was able to land a temp job in recruiting at NBCUniversal. Once that was over, I interned at The Dolce Group (Restaurant/Nightlife company) until I was able to find my next “chapter” if you will. A friend who worked at Universal Music Group approached me about taking over her recruiting position, as she was moving to a different department. Given my previous job in Nor Cal, and my temp gig I was able to land the job and start working full-time in recruiting. I knew if I wanted to survive in LA, it would be expensive and that it wasn’t going to be easy. So the first year I also kept working at The Dolce Group on the weekends to be in a better place financially.

What area are you living in?  
Ellen: I live in West Hollywood and absolutely love it. My first year in LA I lived in Bel Air. It was an absolutely amazing apartment in a killer location in terms of being central to lots of spots (halfway between the beach and West Hollywood nightlife). That said, I felt like I was on an island because I couldn't walk to anything and had to rely on my car everywhere I went. After a year, I moved to West Hollywood, right into the thick of nightlife and shops and everything in between. It's an amazing area because on the weekends, I don't even use my car. And not a lot of people can say that in LA. I can walk to Trader Joes, to the mall, to dinner brunch and lunch, and the majority of the bars I frequent. I am also walking distance to Beverly Hills, so I love strolling along the walking/running path that runs parallel alongside Santa Monica Blvd and weaving through the neighborhoods of Beverly Hills. 


Angela: I’ve lived in West Hollywood, and in the same apartment for the past 4 years. We found a diamond in rough on Craigslist (they are out there!) and I couldn’t imagine living anywhere else. I have a plethora of bars, restaurants and essentials (Trader Joes & Starbucks) in walking distance. Plus, I feel comparatively, it’s pretty centrally located than other areas.

What's your favorite thing about Los Angeles?  
Ellen: To me, LA is so insanely inspiring. Both the humans who live here and the city as a whole. I don't know a single person here who doesn't dream big. Whether it's dreams of a career in entertainment, a dream to become a Yoga instructor, or even a dream to mingle with the stars at your local gym. Everyone who moves to LA moves here with a passion and drive that seems to be unparalleled. It's extremely thrilling to be a part of. 
LA as a city is also motivating, in the sense that it's impossible to sit at home and watch TV when you know you could be out hiking or soaking up the rays in the always 75 and sunny weather. This city brings out the best in people if they let it. Embrace LA for everything that it is, and you will quickly learn to love it.

Angela: It’s hard to choose one thing when you have things like the weather and the opportunities in the mix. But I would have to say the people and the friends I’ve made. LA draws a lot of motivated people with “dreamer” attitudes. I feel constantly inspired by friends, coworkers, and the city as a whole as people are always striving for bigger or better, and constantly working towards their goals and dreams.

Tell us your favorite 3 spots to recommend to new Angelenos: 
Ellen: 1) The Den. This West Hollywood bar is located on the historic sunset strip and has a precious little patio that's usually sporting twinkle lights. This spot is responsible for 3 and a half years of memories for me in LA, and hopefully many more. It is filled to the brim every Friday and Saturday night with people ranging 21-30 and then some. Everyone there wants to make friends, and if you allow yourself, you definitely will. Through the years we have collected new friends, that we now reference as our "Den Friends". Go, and make your own Den Friends. Maybe I will see you there.
2) Beverly Gardens Park. I mentioned this earlier, but this is what the pathway along SM Blvd is formally called. It's a path that runs from West Hollywood all the way to almost UCLA. Any given Saturday or Sunday, you are bound to see tons of people out on the path enjoying the weather -- people running, walking, hanging out with their dogs. Going out for a Sunday morning walk along here keeps me both grounded and inspired. 
3) The Venice Canals. These are literally the COOLEST thing. They are canals that run through a section of houses in Venice, that are truly so pretty it's mind blowing. Last time I was down there, there was a house that had a mailbox with poems in it, encouraging you to take one. Need I say more?
4) I know we said three, but who made these questions anyway? Er... My last one is Tender Greens. Yes, this is merely a cafeteria style restaurant with slow food done fast. But you know what, they have the best mashed potatoes in the world. And every once in a while, I truly need a home cooked meal to make me feel like I'm not a 25 year old who eats scrambled eggs for dinner nearly every night. And the staff there is really nice. When I call, they know me. And I love them for that. 

Angela:

1) Cycle House – One of my favorite spin studios located in West Hollywood! This studio has the best instructors, great music and your first class is free! While they are located in WeHo, they will be opening a new location on the westside this winter.
2) DryBar – It’s a luxury but it’s definitely worth it! If you are not familiar, DryBar is a hair studio that just focuses on blow outs. They now have numerous locations all over LA, and it’s perfect for special occasions, birthdays, or whenever you might need a pick me up. For $40, you get pampered, pretty hair & cocktails #win.
3) Toast – This is one of the first restaurants that I had ventured out to while in LA during an internship -- I had to try it because they went there on The Hills. I’ve been hooked ever since! It's my favorite place to go for breakfast, and to take people that are visiting LA. Not only is the food amazing, but also it’s always fun to sit outside to people watch. You never know who you might see or be dining with! Popular spot for a minor celeb sighting.
4) The Den – I know Ellen already put The Den, but I couldn’t help myself. Our favorite bar on Sunset. Amazing service, great atmosphere and always a good time. Not gonna lie, I’ve celebrated 2 out of my 4 birthdays in LA at this glorious bar.

Any advice you would give to someone who is planning to make the move to LA?  
Ellen:  Try not to think too much, and just move. The more you think about it, the more you will panic. Just move, and figure it out. I advise you have a little $$ saved up to buy you about two months to find a job, but other than that, just take the plunge. It will come together. As long as you don't think you'll be a PR Account Executive or a Movie Star upon stepping off the plane (or out of your car), then you're good to go. The journey of figuring it all out is half the fun. 

Angela: My biggest advice (beyond, just do it) is to simply work really hard and be kind. Working hard is essential, as competition out here can be tough – if you don’t work hard, there will be 10 other behind you that are willing to work harder. And to simply, be kind to everyone. LA is a smaller city than you think. Don’t burn bridges; you never know when you might run into people again!

Follow us on social media:
Instagram: @ellsween, @Angela_M26
Twitter: @ellsween,  @AngelaMayhew 

 

Name: A.J. Mayers
Age: 27
Hometown: Laredo, TX
College:  University of Texas at Austin
When did you move to LA? June 2009

What made you want to move to LA? At 13, I came to visit my grandfather who was temporarily living near Long Beach, CA.  I got to explore L.A. and fell in love with the movie industry.  Since that age, my goal was to move to Hollywood after college.

What was the most challenging part of the move to LA?  Finding a decently priced apartment and getting used to the high living expenses.  Living in L.A. is so much more expensive than living in Texas, where I’m from.

How did your job hunt go down? I came unemployed with a u-haul caravan.  I had interned at MTV the summer before (senior year) and so I used my connections with the network and my former internship supervisor.  After a month of living in L.A. my supervisor helped me land an interview that eventually led me to my first job in my career at MTV.

What area are you living in?  West Hollywood.  I love it because it is central and close to all my favorite restaurants, bars, and shops.  I even live 10 minutes away from work so I never deal with traffic.  I have several friends that live in the 
neighborhood so it feels like a community.  It’s also pretty safe and very walkable.

What's your favorite thing about Los Angeles?  The weather, usually.  But mostly it’s the opportunities that I get to do on a normal week that are not something normal for anyone outside of the city (i.e. premieres, industry parties, concerts, show tapings).

Tell us your favorite 3 spots to recommend to new Angelenos: 
1. Hike the Hollywood sign! You can actually go to the very top of it.  It’ll take a good 1.5 – 2 hours to complete round trip. 2: Abbott Kinney – it’s one of my favorite spots in LA to shop and eat – plus it’s near the beach in Venice.  
3. Disneyland – it’s not in LA proper but it’s close enough and one of the most magical places on Earth!

Any advice you would give to someone who is planning to make the move to LA?  Come with a game plan.  Give yourself one year or a time frame you need to find your career.  Come with money saved and learn to be frugal. Networking is always great, if you do it right.  Never be too obsessive or annoying with industry networking potential colleagues.  Don’t party hard your first few months here.  Make sure to focus on the real reason you came.  Most importantly, create an “LA family” network of close friends you can trust and spend your free time with.  They’ll be there for you when you have good and bad days.  It’ll make your transition smooth.  

Follow A.J. and his LA life here:
Instagram: @ajmayers
Twitter: @aj_mayers