When we talk about the creative community in New Orleans we’re usually referring to musicians. But there are other creative communities in New Orelans, including models, actors, and a range of professions on the other side of the cameras. People in these local communities have typically had to find work for themselves. That is until Elizabeth Perrin started up a creative agency called FiftyTwo45.

Elizabeth Perrin joins Peter Ricchiuti for this edition of Out to Lunch. Elizabeth’s history includes growing up in New Orleans and modeling in New York and Paris. Switching to the other side of the camera, Elizabeth became a fashion photographer, and spent 22 years working in the film business in Hollywood. All of these experiences combine to create the venture Elizabeth launched in in New Orleans in 2015 – a full service talent and creative media agency called FiftyTwo45.

Linda Shkreli is also a member of the New Orleans creative community. Dr Shkreli turned her back on a coveted position as a teacher of performance studies at CSU Northridge in Los Angeles to move to Hawaii -and work in a Honolulu fabric shop. Along the way, Linda also started up what we call in New Orleans a side hustle. She founded her own creative business, which she called Breakthread Designs. With Breakthread Designs as her primary focus, Linda decided to settle in New Orleans. Today, Breakthread Designs makes a range of designer pieces that include Mardi Gras costumes, custom clothing, and interior goods.

Starting a business and running a business are two very different skills. Starting and running a creative business  – where business success depends on your creative ability or the creative ability of others – well, that’s a whole other world again.

Photos at Commander’s Palace by Alison Moon.