Sally Smy, is the founder of Queen Bee Styling. After the birth of her two children, Sally left an 18 year career as a fashion buyer to utilise her experience and skills as a personal stylist. She is a recommended by Parenting for Professionals, Women Returners and Partner of Capability Jane with whom she presents a regular webinar. Sally is a speaker at many women’s networks and writes a monthly blog which can be found on Dulwich on View and her website. She also runs local events, including the Connect, Collaborate and Inspire workshop to be held at The Florence, Herne Hill on Friday 14th October at 10am.
How long have you lived in the area?
12 years in ED and South London all my life. I spent most of my childhood in Walworth and Borough before taking the huge step of moving 4 miles further south to ED.
What has changed most during that time?
Lordship Lane. I love the amazing selection of places we have now to eat and drink. I remember coming to Lordship Lane as a child and it wasn’t the sort of place you wanted to hang around for long. Seeing how vibrant and full of life it is now means I rarely want to go elsewhere.
What do you most value about the area/street you live in?
The sense of community. When I first lived here I left early in the morning and came back when it was dark, I rarely spoke to or saw any of my neighbours. Since I have had my children and started my own business I have met so many lovely people and made lots of new friends.
Do you belong to any groups?
I go to ‘Cooking With Scissor’s and ‘Mums in Business’ networking meetings as often as I can. They have been a valuable source of local information and a great way to chat to other business owners.
Describe your perfect weekend
Once the children are ferried off to clubs I like to jog through Peckham Rye and Dulwich Park. I’d then have a hog roast sandwich from North Cross Market and take the kids to the park to play. I’d finish the day by having a meal with friends and family with a glass of Bruno’s rose, preferably in the garden.
What is your favourite place to eat?
I think I need to do some more research but my current favourite is Yama Momo. I love the Begging Bowl and Pedlar too.
Coffee or tea? Where?
Coffee in Jade
The best kept secret…
Bloomers lingerie shop – I recommend it to all my local clients and they are always impressed with the service.
What’s your favourite place to go for a drink?
Franklins, I used to go there even before I moved to ED. They do a mean Espresso Martini!
What is your favourite shop?
William Rose. I go there every week and they never let me down.
What was the last thing you bought there?
Venison burgers and then pretended to friends that I had made them myself – my secret is out!
The book I’m reading at the moment…
Blood Beneath the Skin, The Alexander McQueen biography.
My secret ambition…
A law banning adults from wearing Crocs, Uggs and fleeces!