Meet Marissa Chanel Hampton of Ink & Paper Soul in West Midtown

Today we’d like to introduce you to Marissa Chanel Hampton.

Thanks for sharing your story with us Marissa. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I’m originally from southern California, born in Newport Beach. Growing up I split my time between the west coast and the mid-west in Indianapolis, Indiana. Bi-coastal living instilled in me the best of both worlds, hardworking, down-to-earth Midwestern values with a whole lot of west coast openness and sensibilities.

From an early age I knew I wanted to be an actor, yet it felt like doing just one thing was limiting and not “enough”, so I ran around doing every activity known to man (cheerleading, piano lessons, senate intern, Smithsonian intern, worked in HR and at two startups) before I was comfortable enough to introduce myself as an actor.

I’m blessed with parents who are two, wildly intelligent people, and who have from the beginning encouraged me that whatever I choose to do in life, to commit fully and give it my all. Their support has been invaluable, and I’m incredibly grateful for them.

After college I moved to Los Angeles and started auditioning, attending classes, and absorbing all I could about the entertainment industry. Over the course of several years, I saw a lot, made a few mistakes, and found wonderful teachers and mentors at places like Second City Hollywood and in Sara Mornell of Mornell Studios. I have a wonderful manager in LA and lovely reps in Atlanta. Finally, I had found my industry niche and have been writing, and making people laugh at my antics ever since.

Has it been a smooth road?
No, definitely not. What I love most about acting (and frankly any creative endeavor) is that it’s self-directed and challenging. The reality of being an actor is you will hear a lot of “no’s”, but when that “yes” is heard its so much sweeter because you’ve fought for it tooth and nail. After college, I surveyed the television landscape and it appeared  that there wasn’t a place for me, what show would I be on? I didn’t quite fit the stereotypes that the industry had for beauty, or for black women and I knew it wouldn’t be an easy journey. Despite the lack of clear cut path, I have always felt that to leave your destiny in the hands of some imaginary gatekeeper was silly, so I started to write and look for ways to take control in a business that frequently makes a person feel powerless in their pursuit for success.

My first job, I lobbied the casting director’s office for months doing everything within my power while still being unrepresented to let them know, if they brought me in for an audition, I would crush it. After being called in again and again, so close but not booking, I got the thrill of a lifetime when I booked my first gig on the show of my dreams helmed by my shero, Shonda Rhimes. Whenever I feel like this business is “too hard” I remember that victory, and I keep on hustling.

I realized after a few years of auditioning in Los Angeles that I didn’t want to keep waiting on someone else to write the perfect role or deem me worthy, so I went to an improv class and never left. I ended up performing and writing with a ton of incredibly talented artists who brought out in me a love for comedy, writing, and creating content with friends. There is no better feeling than an audience roaring with laughter at what you’ve brought to life, or people finding joy in content you’ve created, nothing can beat that high.

So, as you know, we’re impressed with Ink & Paper Soul – tell our readers more, for example, what you’re most proud of and what sets you apart from others.

I’m a working actor, the managing director of Mornell Studios, and the founder of Ink & Paper Soul a book blog focused on reviews from a humorous, diverse, and accessible (no book snobs allowed!) point of view. I’m most proud of my constant hustle and approach to the entertainment industry. You can typically find me flying coast to coast, pursuing the next opportunity.

I firmly believe that artists are responsible for the content they put out in this world. When I can work on meaningful projects that tell important stories, is when I am at my happiest.

One of my favorite quotes is from the incomparable Shirley Chisholm, “Service is the rent we pay for the privilege of living on this earth.” True success to me is defined by what you give back to the communities that have supported you, and the village that helped raise you.

Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
I’m a true California girl, and came to Atlanta thinking I was here only for work. A place that seemed like the land of milk and honey for an actor. Instead, I’ve found myself fond of this city. I love the trees, the BeltLine, the history, and the city’s green spaces! The summer here was pure magic, and even though hot and humid I thoroughly enjoyed myself.

The only things missing would be the Pacific Ocean and my family!

Contact Info:

• Website: www.marissachanelhampton.com
• Instagram: @marissachanelhampton
• Other: www.inkandpapersoul.com

Image Credit:
Dillon G Artzer

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