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

Hi Marissa, can you share a quote or affirmation with us?
My favorite quote is from Carrie Fisher…”Stay afraid, but do it anyway.” I love that it embraces the reality of facing new challenges and how they often incite fear and anxiety. I’ve definitely let fear stop me in the past, but I’m a lot more capable of shutting it down and overcoming challenges now. Sometimes thinking about this quote helps in moments of uncertainty or when I’m facing a big decision.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
This year has been absolutely wild professionally and personally. After years in unscripted television, I finally made the jump to scripted and have been working as a 1st Assistant Director full time this year. It’s fun and challenging and everyday is different. As a director, it’s extremely cool to help other directors bring their visions to life and see how they work. I’ve AD’d three short films, two music videos, a couple commercials, and a feature this year and am booked on two more features back to back starting mid-July! As a director, I shot one short this year and am gearing up for an episode of a web-series in September as well as a feature next spring.

Moving from unscripted to narrative work was not an easy journey. It takes dedication, a love for the art, and a serious work ethic to make it through and find your path. I realized I had no choice aside from working in film in 2014 after I graduated college…I had next to no job prospects and had to make rent in San Jose, CA. Out of desperation, I interviewed at a Barnes and Noble. Later that day, they offered me the job. I took it because I thought being in California was the only way to work in the industry. Not even 12 hours after accepting a job at the bookstore, thinking it would help me have a base to find film work from, I got offered a PA job on my first long term show. I had to make the decision to quit something stable to chase a dream, and it was a HARD decision. Everyone has to make them and I don’t regret it…but I still think about working at a bookstore on the really tough days!


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’m LA based, but I feel like this question is about Atlanta, so I’m going to go with what I like there! The Botanical Garden and Piedmont Park obviously…Soul Vegan for lunch, and Joystick to drink and play games into the night. That’s all I really know!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I wouldn’t be where I am without the support I’ve gotten from my friends and family. My dad has encouraged me from day one and has always been there when my plans get derailed. Without his love, support, and corny jokes, I honestly don’t know if I would’ve made it onto this path.

Website: https://www.marissavonn.com

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

Image Credits
Hannah Rosalie Wright and Nick Ford

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