GORGEOUS GROWTH

Jenny Byrne is managing director of the YGH (You’re Gorgeous Hair) group, which has two salons in Duleek and Stamullen in Co Meath, and a third in Drogheda Co Louth, which recently moved to new premises

What's your earliest memory?

I remember being about three, and my mam and dad would take us all to St Anne’s Park in Dublin, and my dad would balance us up in the air on his hands and feet. There was also a rope on a tree, which we could swing from. It’s a memory that reminds me that the good things in life are always free.

Who or what is your biggest inspiration?

My parents. They are the most loving and supportive people I know. They encourage us all to do the things we want to do, and manage to advise us without judgement along the way. If I can be anything like either of them, I will be very lucky.

What was your first job?

At the age of 16 I left school in the middle of Transition Year to work in hairdressing. My mam got me the job in the salon where she got her hair done. And I've never looked back; 33 years later I’m still doing it and loving every minute of it.

Ideal holiday destination?

Saint Lucia is a place I’d like to visit. I'm not really a lover of beaches, but I’d love to be on that one because it looks so gorgeous.

Favourite food?

I'd love to say a salad, but that would make anyone who knows me laugh! Chipper food wins this one!

Favourite drink?

I do like a frozen strawberry daiquiri, but my daily go-to drink is sparkling water with a dash of blackcurrant.

How do you relax?

My ideal way to wind down is just to stay in and chill out with a movie and a nice takeaway.

‘Dream big, be consistent and stay focused; that way you can achieve all your own personal goals’

What was the last great film or series you watched?

Elvis was the last great movie I watched. I was shocked that he was only 42 when he died, which means I was just four. Because my parents listened to his music, I felt that he was around for longer.

Dream dinner party guest/guests (dead or alive)

That would definitely have to be my fiancé Graham’s father Gerry. I never got to meet him and I’d love to tell him all about what we've been doing together. Gerry was also the lead singer in a band called The 3 Guys, so no doubt we would have a great sing-song late into the evening.

Do you cook and, if so, do you have a signature recipe?

No, I'm definitely not a cook! I can do basic meals, but I don't enjoy it. If I'm honest, it’s the last thing I want to do after working all day.

Best piece of advice you've ever received?

Just apply what you've learned and take action.

Best piece of advice you've ever given?

Dream big, be consistent and stay focused; that way you can achieve all your own personal goals.

Have you learned any valuable lessons from the pandemic?

I learned the importance of a work-life balance. Regardless of anything, life moves on, so we should enjoy our time with family and friends.

Favourite thing about yourself?

From a professional perspective, I love chasing change to provide exceptional service to our clients. I like seeing things in people that others don't, giving each team member every opportunity to be the best version of themselves.

What is the one hair product you can't live without?

I'm a big lover of Joico Blonde Life Shampoo and Conditioner – I'd be lost without this range.

What, if anything, would you now tell your 16-year-old self?

Take every educational opportunity in your career. And plan your journey, create a budget and stick to it.

How would you like to be remembered?

As someone who gave you an opportunity to follow your dreams, while having the best fun ever.