PRIZE PIVOT

Ailish Morkan is the owner of Ailish Laser & Skincare in Kilkenny, which was named Salon of the Year Ireland at the iiaa Salon of the Year Awards 2024

What’s your earliest memory?

I was born in Waterford and we moved to Kilkenny just before I turned three. I can remember the beautiful carpet with big swirls that we had there – it was where I learned to crawl!

Who or what is your biggest inspiration?

My parents. We were taught to work hard, and we never got things handed to us on a plate. They taught us that honesty is always the best policy, and if you don’t have your word, you don’t have anything.

What was your first job?

I had so many jobs at the same time that I don’t know which one I had first. I modelled from the age of 16 up to 26, and in my early teens I also cleaned offices and stacked shelves in supermarkets.

Ideal holiday destination?

Anywhere with an amazing sea view for some relaxation, and for interesting day trips with a bit of history.

Favourite food?

I love really interesting salads and strong cheese. My guilty pleasure is nuts and chocolate together.

Favourite drink?

For comfort, good old Barry’s Tea. And I do love an Aperol spritz.

How do you relax?

I meditate every day. I started doing this about four years ago. It sounds dramatic, but I have found it to be life-changing.

What was the last great film or series you watched?

I loved One Day. I hadn’t read the book before I watched it, so I didn’t know anything about the sad ending and I bawled my eyes out. It’s nostalgic and a great love story. I’m an old romantic at heart!

‘I was in the middle of revamping my website when we went into lockdown, so we finished it very quickly because with our physical doors closed, the website was all we had’

Dream dinner party guest/guests (alive or dead)?

My grandparents, who have all passed away. I was in my early 20s when I lost them, and I think when you’re young, you don’t appreciate their stories or even listen to them properly.

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

I do cook every day, but I only really enjoy it when I have plenty of time on my hands. I also bake and I make a delicious white chocolate and raspberry baked cheesecake.

Best piece of advice you've ever received?

If it’s worth doing, it’s worth doing right.

Have you changed the way you work since the pandemic?

Yes, we pivoted the business after Covid. I was in the middle of revamping my website when we went into lockdown, so we finished it very quickly because with our physical doors closed, the website was all we had. Our online shop and skin consultations became very popular. Prior to that, I would never have spoken on camera. I pushed myself outside my comfort zone, and it has paid off because we are busier now than we’ve ever been.

Favourite thing about yourself?

I like that I am interested in people, and in meeting lots of different kinds of people.

What’s the one beauty product you can’t live without?

Environ Youth EssentiA Vita Peptide Eye Gel. If I run out of this even for a few days, I can see the lines coming back around my eyes. It’s an amazing product.

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

As soon as you get your first job, start paying into a pension. Enjoy your youth and believe in yourself because you are capable of so much more than you think.

How would you like to be remembered?

As a good mother first and foremost, and as a fair and honest person.