Today we’d like to introduce you to Natalie Pappas.
So, before we jump into specific questions, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
Like most of us that move to LA in awe of Hollywood, so did I back in 2004. Wow, that seems like another lifetime at this point! For the first few years, I worked at various entertainment platforms, a music label as an assistant to the President, a talent agency in the literary department, and even ran licensing and production at an independent record label. I lived and breathed through my blackberry with it never leaving my possession. I was only 22 years old, but I was already worn out. So, when I was scouted for modeling at Venice Beach, I was beside myself with excitement. Growing up, I was always playing dress-up, singing, dancing, performing in every play I could, you get the idea. Now I had the chance to be in front of the camera again. For almost ten years, I pursued acting and modeling, but of course it was a struggle. I had a business degree and it was always so tough for me to live from paycheck to paycheck awaiting my next booking. Don’t get me wrong, I loved acting, but maybe it wasn’t my calling.
So when an industry colleague told me about an opportunity to start a talent division of a new agency he was building, I jumped at the opportunity. I could take all my years in front of the camera, the training, the struggle, etc. and use those experiences to guide new talent. I never looked back. I built the commercial and theatrical divisions at my previous agency and implemented our SAG franchising. I absolutely loved working with talent on their self-tapes, hearing their personal stories, and assisting them to achieve their goals. And these same reasons were exactly why I decided to start driveN. I wanted to create an agency run by strong, “driven” women and hoping to break a few outdated standards along the way. The Entertainment Industry is evolving, especially evident in a time of such sudden change around the world, and I want to be a part of a new trend promoting diversity, inclusion, and acceptance.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Obviously, nothing in life is without some struggle and if it were easy, everyone would do it, right?! The struggle is what makes it all worth it! So, I launched The driveN Agency in January 2020 and sadly, Covid-19 hit shortly after in March. We were just starting to get our name out there, build momentum, and book regularly before the pandemic hit. But all shall be ok! We have used this time to finish behind the scenes projects, like our website, strategize for the future, and prepare to come back stronger than ever. We look ahead to brighter days and know we will all come out of this as a stronger community.
Please tell us about The driveN Agency.
The driveN Agency is a Los Angeles based talent agency specializing in commercials and print. Being boutique in size, we are known for our hands on personal approach to both our represented Individuals and Clients alike. We believe that teamwork makes the dream work and we like to forge long-lasting relationships to achieve those goals. I believe what sets us apart is our ability to look outside the box and see how times/trends are changing in the market. We want to be an agency that speaks to acceptance and inclusion of those we represent and spread the word that “beauty is beyond black and white…it’s colorful”. Basically, you are beautiful as YOU and you are safe here with us to embrace that…and that is our mantra in a nutshell.
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
I am not sure I would consider myself “lucky” (I never win when in Vegas! LOL) but I would consider myself blessed. With the support of my family, friends, furry kids, and business mentors, they have shown me that I can do anything I put my mind to. Giving me unconditional love and reassurance, they have helped me build the confidence to make my dreams become a reality.
Contact Info:
- Address: 11271 Ventura Blvd. #317 Studio City, CA 91604
- Website: www.drivenagencyla.com
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: @thedrivenagency
- Facebook: The Driven Agency
Image Credit:
@eatthecaketoo, @crocs, @thejamescreative, @kristerz, @divinityray, @sadiepetiford, @bonnieargo, @typicallytaylor, @mattiemaderos, @ashaabdella, @sbccreative
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