What’s your favourite place on the Northern Beaches?
Freshie Rockpool with the kids, followed by a oat matcha and babyccinos for the boys at Palmo.
Is there something about you that would surprise people?
I might have an English accent, but I was actually born in Sydney.
What’s something everyone should do at least once?
Get outside the bubble. I’m obsessed with the Beaches but it always feels good to venture into the city, preferably by ferry or explore other parts of Sydney. I truly believe we live in one of the best cities in the world.
It’s Sunday afternoon, where do we find you?
At North Curly tennis courts, chasing the kids around.
If you were down to your last $50, what would you spend it on?
A sunset cocktail at Hugo’s…Limoncello Spritz is my current favourite.
Business
How did MODE happen? How long have you had the business?
I open MODE more than seven years ago, after I couldn’t find a studio in Manly offering the progressive style of Pilates I wanted to teach. At this time, it simply didn’t exist locally, so I created it.
Best business experience?
Discovering how wonderful the Northern beaches small-business community is. In the early days, people were incredibly kinds, supportive and encouraging. I made so many friends who I still love working with today.
If you weren’t doing this, what would you be doing?
It could go in so many directions! I’d probably be in a corporate marketing role, or perhaps working in property. I LOVE real estate, marketing and movement!
Best part about your job?
Being part of people’s lives. We are so much more than a workout. We become part of people’s routines, their confidence, and their community. I love seeing clients feel stronger and more connected to themselves. Being there for the highs and lows; engagements, weddings, babies, while also holding space for grief and the realities of life.
Most stressful part of your job?
The economy, in all honesty. Consumer spending is tough right now and small local businesses need support more than ever. Running a small business requires total dedication and comes with a lot of juggling and sacrifice.
What’s the best part of working on the Northern Beaches?
The people and the lifestyle. There’s such a strong sense of community and it’s hard to beat being close to the ocean, great coffee spots and so manly inspiring local people and creators.
Personal
What would you rate 10/10?
A stroll to Shelley Beach and a dip at the Bower.
What is the best advice you’ve received?
You don’t have to have it all figured out.
What’s the best thing that’s happened to you this week?
I overheard two women sitting next to me at Noon talking about MODE and saying it was the best studio they’d been to in Manly. It was so special – my heart was full.
Greatest strength?
I don’t stop. I am super disciplined. I love connecting people and I hope my team and clients know that I really see them.
Greatest weakness?
I find it hard to switch off – and I care a lot.
Does anything scare you?
My boys growing up too fast.
Most treasured possession?
My boys’ art & Ash Holmes beautiful artworks in our studios.
How do you switch off?
I struggle. Pilates is my mindful time, when my brain finally slows down. Or playing UNO with the boys – no phones in sight.
Who’s your personal hero?
My hubby. He’s an incredible human: running his own business, supporting me with all the bits I don’t enjoy including finance and legal – and he’s the best dad to our two boys.
What’s your guilty pleasure?
A matcha and a good brekkie wrap.
If you were an animal, what would you be?
A chimpanzee.
How would you like to be remembered?
As someone who made people feel seen, loved and supported and capable of more than they thought possible.
If we could ask you one more question, what would it be and what’s your answer?
“What would you tell someone who is new to the Northern Beaches?”
Find your people, try new things, go to meetups, try gyms & studios and find movement that feeds your soul. I’m obviously a big believer in moving your body – it’s so powerful for how you feel and how you see yourself.