Simone Thomas is the founder of Simone Thomas Salons and Simone Thomas Wellness. She is an award-winning businesswoman, hair loss expert and mum of two.

 

Q: What has been your proudest achievement?

A: I’m proud of everything I have achieved. In a business sense, I’m proud of turning hard work into success. I had no idea when opening my first salon eight years ago that I would go on to grow the business to two thriving salons, a clinic consultancy and award-winning supplement range. I was dreaming the impossible but am proof that ambition and hard work really does pay off.

 

Q: Where do you get your inspiration from?

A:I think losing my parents at a young age changed something within me and inspired me to be totally self-sufficient. My father died suddenly when I was eight and our lives changed overnight. Then mum was diagnosed with a serious illness when I was just 18. I was still a child really and when she passed away ten years later, I remember thinking that I didn’t want to rely on anybody else for security. My greatest fear is still losing those that I love - but this inspires me to make the very most of each and every day.

 

Q: What would be your perfect day out in Dorset?

A: I love Kimmeridge Bay on the Isle of Purbeck. It’s a beautiful area where I go to recharge and switch off. We scattered my mum’s ashes along the Jurassic Coast nearby, so it has special significance to me and my boys. I’d take the family for a long walk across the hilltops, then rock-pooling before heading for lunch at Clavell’s, a quaint thatched-roof restaurant specialising in locally-sourced ingredients.

 

Q: What are your fondest memories of the county?

A: Falling in love with the ocean. I moved from Surrey eight years ago to live nearer my brother and was immediately drawn to spending time by the sea – I find it so therapeutic. I also love the New Forest – I travel to London and Wokingham for work on a weekly basis but driving home through the forest instantly relaxes me.

 

Q: What would be your favourite thing to do when you have a day off?

A: I work very long hours, juggling two children with my work, so I try to take a little ‘me’ time now and again to avoid burning out. I love to walk to Turks Lane marina, grab a seat at the restaurant there and sit in the sun. I might make some notes (I’m currently writing a Wellness book), or read and just enjoy the quiet. Then I might head to the gym for some yoga, followed by a HIIT session.

 

Q: Where is your favourite place to eat in the county?

A: I’m a big fan of the flatbreads at The Pig on the Beach in Studland Bay – they’re cooked outside and served on the terrace, it’s the perfect place to spend a sunny afternoon with friends. Closer to home, I love Isabel’s, a cute French restaurant in Poole that serves wonderful food.

 

Q: What three things do you associate with Dorset?

A: The beauty and tranquillity of the New Forest, paddleboarding and my family. I love being outdoors and spending time with those closest to me and Dorset has so much to offer in both respects.

 

Q: If you could summarise the county in one word what would it be?

A: Diverse. We have the ocean, the forest, bustling towns and chocolate-box villages. I can’t imagine living anywhere else.