When people ask you what you want this holiday season, why not ask for something that will encourage you in your journey as an actor? Family members often want to help you in your artistic pursuits, but if they’re not in the industry they just don’t know how. So we’ve decided to share our favorite gift ideas for the LA actor. Whether you are looking to give or receive, check out “The Actors Edition of the Best Gifts to Give and Get!” below for gift inspiration!

An industry seminar pack! Gift cards take on a personal meaning when they are meant to help you network and build your dream career! So why not ask for a package at TVI or Actors Key. You can choose who you want to meet and when, and even drop your family member a note after your first seminar. I know my aunt in Texas would be overjoyed to know I met the casting director for New Girl thanks to her!

A gift card to opportunity! Whether you fill h’er up at Chevron or many others, get the gift of a gas card. It may sound silly, but showing up is half the battle. A full tank enables us to drive seamlessly from a comm audition in Santa Monica to a sitcom callback in Burbank. It gives us the freedom to go where the opportunities are.

A package of Oms! The hustle and bustle of the city can get to all of us. So maybe it’s time to find your inner zen this new year. Connecting with your body and your breath is important for everyone’s well being. But staying in tune physically and emotionally is even more important for an actor. Before we take on the lives of different characters, we have to first come to peace with our own.

Bundles of beauty! Getting pampered at the hair or nail salon is a treat for everyone, and even more so for an actor. Having a fresh cut or beautifully manicured hands at a commercial callback can be just the edge we need to book the job. In an image driven business, a day of beautifying is more than welcome.

A subscription to the inside scoop! Regular reading of Variety and The Hollywood Reporter will make you look, feel, and sound like the professional you long to be. So stop waiting on the side lines for your big break and be a player in the game. These are the tools you need to stay current and knowledge of who is doing what and when is powerful!

Endless online entertainment! Itunes, NetFlix, the list goes on and on. Having access to the best shows will keep you well informed for when you have the chance to audition for them! And watching more film will help you better determine your career trajectory. There is not much better than something that’s both fun and can ignite your passion for your art!

Break legs!
Megan