Welcome back to Part 2 of our exclusive conversation with Great American Family star Merritt Patterson! Last week in part 1, Merritt took us behind the scenes of her highly anticipated new romantic comedy, Meet Me in the Margins. Today, we are shifting gears to look at the big picture—including her exciting new multi-picture deal with Great American Media. Plus, she’s lifting the curtain on how she manages her wellness on a demanding filming schedule, her everyday fitness routine, and her secrets to maintaining gorgeous, camera-ready hair through changing climates and constant heat styling. Let’s dive back in!
Fans were thrilled to hear about your new multi-picture deal with Great American Media! What is your favorite part about being a core member of the Great American Family star family?
Merritt Patterson: I’ve been incredibly fortunate to work with GAF for several years and film projects all over the world. It’s an honor to be considered part of the family, and I’m so grateful for the relationships I’ve built along the way. I look forward to finding the next project that we can bring to life together!
Your hair is gorgeous in every film. Between the constant heat styling and changing climates on set, how do you keep your hair so healthy and full of shine?
Merritt Patterson: I’m really lucky when it comes to the health of my hair. I’ve had just about every length and color over the years, shout out to my amazing hairstylist Katie Cartwright at Nine Zero One! When I’m on set, I try to avoid overwashing it as much as possible. And in my everyday life, I never use a blow dryer… Maybe that helps?
If you had to pick your top 5 “must-have” beauty or wellness products that you would recommend to anyone, what would they be?
Merritt Patterson: Hmm, probably:
- Water — stay hydrated!
- Sunscreen. (Like La-Roche Posay sunscreen)
- It’s not a product, but I think some form of movement—whether that’s a workout class, lifting weights, or simply going for a walk—is necessary and incredibly beneficial for our overall health.
- Infrared sauna — still trying to find the best one.
- I’ve recently become obsessed with Merit Beauty products (great name), specifically The Uniform Tinted Mineral Sunscreen, the Flush Balm, and the Perfecting Complexion Stick.
Staying healthy can be a challenge with a demanding filming schedule. How do you maintain a consistent wellness routine and keep your energy up while on set?
Merritt Patterson: Staying healthy on set is definitely a challenge. Before a film begins, I try to make sure I am in the best possible shape both physically and mentally. Staying hydrated, eating nutritious, balanced meals throughout the day is essential. I try not to drink too much coffee… Sleep is another huge factor for me and one I try to prioritize, though it’s not always possible while filming.
What does your favorite style of workout look like these days? Are you more into strength training, pilates, outdoor activities, or a mix of everything?
Merritt Patterson: I love to workout and try to keep a good variety in my routine. Every week I’m aiming to fit in a pilates session, one or two weight workouts, a peloton ride and plenty of walking every day.
Our community is always looking for great recommendations. When you finally get a completely free weekend to relax at home, what is your absolute favorite way to unwind?
Merritt Patterson: I’m always on the lookout for a great book. I love to read and to get lost in another world, which isn’t so different from acting, I suppose! If I’m at home, a workout followed by a bath is usually my favorite way to unwind. Always accompanied by music! Or the beach – nothing is more soothing than being by the ocean.
Whether she is exploring a new character in the publishing world or unwinding by the ocean with a great book, Merritt’s grounded approach to fame, fitness, and family-friendly storytelling is exactly why we love her so much. We cannot wait to see what her new multi-picture chapter with Great American Family brings next! A massive thank you to Merritt for sharing her time, her set secrets, and her ultimate lifestyle routine with our community.
Be sure to grab your copy of Melissa Ferguson’s Meet Me in the Margins and check out our handpicked shopping guide below to recreate Merritt’s gorgeous red-carpet beauty routine at home!
Merritt’s Part 2 Makeup & Lifestyle Shopping Guide
- Merit Beauty The Uniform Tinted Mineral Sunscreen – A lightweight, breathable mineral SPF that provides a flawless, sheer tint while actively protecting your skin barrier from daily UV rays.
- Merit Beauty Flush Balm Cream Blush – The ultimate creamy cheek color that melts effortlessly into the skin for a transparent, buildable pop of color that looks like a natural, youthful flush.
- Merit Beauty The Minimalist Perfecting Complexion Stick – Part foundation, part concealer, this breathable stick is perfect for quick on-the-go touch-ups to instantly replace your heavy foundation setup.
- Meet Me in the Margins by Melissa Ferguson – The hit novel that inspired Merritt’s new movie! A sweet, witty, workplace romantic comedy that is an absolute must-read for any book lover.
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Check out Part 1 of our exclusive Merritt Patterson Interview
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