Meet Katelyn Farrugia | Actor, Accent Enthusiast & Experimental Baker

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

Hi Katelyn, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
When I first started my career, balance was always on the back burner. I moved at full speed ahead without regard to my health, and even some relationships I had with friends, family, etc. I was constantly pursuing my career – checking for my next cmail at work, leaving my phone on at the dinner table, and even missing life events if I knew my career was on the line. I was hungry, always wanting more. But over the years, I’ve come to realize balance is an extremely necessary and illusive thing to obtain. It takes work, discipline and most importantly, time. Now, I keep my phone in my purse at dinner. I’m trying new things, not because it’ll enhance my resume, but because it enhances me as a person. We have to take self-care seriously and know when things are unhealthy for us. I’ve come to believe you never need to “find” balance; you create it. You prioritize it. When you build a house of cards, you don’t build it all to one side. You start by creating a base and giving care to each side, not giving too much to one or the other. Because when you do, the house tips. It falls.

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’ve been acting for just under a decade, primarily film and tv. And I find the more I act, the more my life takes shape. My brand and story are still evolving, into what I’m not sure. But I’ve grown into a stronger, more confident actor, and person. The person part is very important to me, especially lately. I’m embracing who I am in ways I didn’t think I knew how, allowing myself to feel more deeply, which in acting, is everything. I reaffirm who I am by noticing and practicing the little things, like telling myself I’m more than enough or reminding myself that I’m only human. Some days I believe me, some days I don’t. Acting is tough. It takes a lot out of you which most people wouldn’t be willing to give, and I think there’s something tragically beautiful about that. Or we’re just all crazy. I guess I’ll find out one day, but until then, I’ll keep learning and moving forward.

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.
Being originally from a small coastal town in North Carolina, I’m still acquainting myself with Atlanta, even after four years. So, I’d likely start them off with courses at Canoe, followed by drinks at The Consulate, and dessert at Ecco Midtown. Then, once they’re properly in a food coma, I’d take them to any one of the numerous hiking trails, with Stone Mountain being by far my favorite. After that, I’d show them the Ruth E. Carter exhibit at the SCAD Museum of Fashion, or maybe take in an Atlanta United game. And just when they think I’m finished, we’ll top it off with some classic piano bar festivities at Campagnolo. Cheers!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’d like to give a big thanks to the teachers I’ve had in my life, not just in regard to acting but my primary educators, collegiate and lifetime supporters who have taught me numerous practical and not so practical lessons I never knew I’d need or want. So, I’d like to say thank you to Sara Mornell, Marjorie Ballentine, Paula Vanlandingham, Neko Parham, Beth Becka, Ron Fallica, Allie McCulloch, Charlie Tuggle, James Hefner, Lynn Hunsucker, The Waymans, The Hagers, my parents, stepparent, and grandparents – both here and gone. You’ve spent your life informing who I am, and for you all, I am deeply and fondly grateful.

Instagram: @haute_kateure

Linkedin: Katelyn Farrugia

Twitter: @hautekateure

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Image Credits
Ramuel Galarza