Success in any industry requires passion, determination, and vision. But what happens when someone takes those same qualities and applies them to a completely different field?
Susan DeRose, a seasoned entrepreneur known for her iconic Atlanta restaurants, Bones, OK Café and Blue Ridge Grill, understands the challenges and rewards of venturing into new territories.
While her background is rooted in restaurants, DeRose has always believed in the power of storytelling and creative expression. Her journey from the world of hospitality to the world of cinema is a testament to the fact that passion, coupled with a strong entrepreneurial mindset, can lead to unexpected yet fulfilling new ventures.
What is a common thread between film and restaurant making?
“At first glance, the restaurant business and the film industry might seem worlds apart. One revolves around serving meals and creating exceptional dining experiences, while the other is about crafting narratives and engaging audiences through visual storytelling. The foundation of both industries, however, is remarkably similar.”
“Whether you’re running a restaurant or directing a film, it all comes down to vision, leadership, and execution,” DeRose. “You need to see the bigger picture, bring together the right team, and ensure every detail aligns with your goal. Much like opening a new restaurant requires careful planning: hiring the best chefs, designing an inviting atmosphere, and training the staff how to give meaningful experiences, making a film demands assembling the right cast and crew, developing a compelling script, and ensuring all elements come together seamlessly for a meaningful experience.
Where is the leap from restaurants to film?
DeRose, “the journey into filmmaking didn’t happen overnight. My career had already given me a deep understanding of operations and leadership which proved invaluable when stepping into a creative industry. Since I first saw “The Wizard of Ozz” at age six, I’ve been fascinated by the art of storytelling. I’ve studied screenplay crafting, gone to UCLA film school and Main Workshops in film making. It took me years to rewrite my first script.”
I could have stuck to my comfort zones, but I saw filmmaking as a new challenge—one that would allow my sense of aesthetic into something deeply creative. I approached it with the same strategic mindset applied to the other ventures: learning a craft of writing, then re-writing until I thought I had something worthwhile, then surrounding myself with talented professionals. On my first film, Charming the Hearts of Men, once English cinematographer, Gavin Struthers, who filmed Downton Abby, the Witcher and Foyles War, came on board, I knew together we could make a beautiful and emotionally impactful film. And shortly thereafter, once Kelsey Grammer, joined the team as lead actor, we were off and running.
How similar is the Business of Restaurants and Film?
Restaurants and films are startups. You think you’ve done a good job and you given it your all, but you never know what your audience will think about your babies until you open the doors. Restaurants may be less risky at first. Customers with good experiences will yield more customers, and over time a reputation is established. Films have a few weeks to build traction. There is another film behind yours waiting for their spot in the theater line-up. Then again, if a film is successful, unlike a restaurant, it can be sold on a world market.
Embracing the Journey – a piece of advice?
“Don’t let fear hold you back. The skills you’ve built in one industry can absolutely transfer into another. Stay curious, surround yourself with great people, and most importantly—enjoy the journey.”
DeRose’s story is a reminder that success isn’t about staying in one lane—it’s about following your passions, embracing challenges, and daring to create something new. Whether in the kitchen, the boardroom, or behind the camera, the principles of hard work, vision, and creativity remain the same.
And as DeRose has proven, sometimes the best stories come from those who are willing to take risks and chase their dreams—no matter where they lead.
