1. What inspired you to set up Unlisted London?

Inspiration originated on two basic observations.
One was the frustration of too many friends forever complaining about not being able to find experienced beauty and health practitioners on a consistent, convenient basis - especially relative to America.
The other was our personal knowledge of many superior, ‘un-media-celebrated’ professionals in the industry equally frustrated that their talents were lost in the High Street but who also knew of - and feared - the financial risks of trying to freelance or set up a small enterprise of their own.

We simply wanted to be ‘The Solution’! So Jacquie Rufus-Issacs and I created Unlisted London. The premise – a single number to call where we would could offer a personally tried, vetted and selected team of passionate and talented professionals who were equipped with the finest products and equipment. We targeted those seeking not only quality treatments by experienced hands - when and where they wanted - but also personal service and genuine privacy. It seemed a rather practical “win / win” idea more than anything else!

2. What has exceeded your expectations in creating Unlisted London?

On one hand, the quality, diversity and loyalty of the clients that have known Unlisted through the years - and the extent of our geographical reach.
On the other hand it’s the wonderful team of professionals who have dedicated their talents, knowledge, and hard work, both on the road and in the office, to building the word-of-mouth reputation that Unlisted enjoys.

3. What are the most valuable lessons you have learnt about running your own company?

Avoid losing direction and time by adhering to your business ethos with conviction, trust your instinct, and listen to the strength of your inner voice.

Surround yourself with smart people who are there for more than just a pay-cheque. Start-ups require a special and clever type of person to help make the magic happen.

Have courage. Discipline, Diligence, Determination, Persistence, Perseverance, and Perspiration are mandatory - on a daily basis.

Most importantly, enjoy the journey. Success, self fulfilment and all the rest simply follows!

4. What advice would you give to someone looking to motivate themselves to take more exercise and to look after their fitness level?

STOP trying to find someone to motivate you. It’s your life and your choice to live it the way you choose. Only you can ask yourself if you want to live filled with boundless energy, confidence and self-esteem - feeling emotionally balanced and impervious to stress. Or, do you want to be living amongst the masses; perpetually dieting, never having strength and energy, tending to look unhappy and more often or not, stressed?

Once you decide you want to live differently. Then my advice is:
Keep it simple & keep it regular. And just do it! Aim to get over your first hurdle and then the next. The next thereafter will be easier and you’ll see the “can’t-do” excuses will lessen and the “can-do” actions of living a fitter healthier life will become routine.

Experience the sense of achievement from having made the choice, taking the responsibility and having discovered your own inner reservoir of motivation. Being fit and healthy is one of life’s most treasured gifts.

5. We are intrigued by your Design Service, can you tell us more?

As it has long been recognised that the space and environment within which we dwell has an impact on our health and wellbeing and, as Unlisted was already “in” the home (and the office space) providing “wellbeing”, the Interior Design Group grew organically out of our core spa offering.

The design and style of the places we live in is as much a part of who we are and how we feel as are the clothes we wear and the activities we engage in. The design group is lead by Scott Maddux who has been working with Jacquie and I since Unlisted started. He embodies the Unlisted ethos of delivering what is right for the individual and their lifestyle. His talent leads a team that masterfully delivers a design style ethic of a quality and standard that is as unique as every client and every project.

6. What do you most enjoy doing in your working day?

Working on the VIP Customer Account Desk, answering the telephones and speaking with our clients! After that, it is recruiting the talent as this is the lifeblood of Unlisted that keeps me inspired, energised and replenished.

7. What are your essential products when travelling?

I never ever leave home without Buddha Nose “i-booster” strengthening and fortifying spray and a collection of skin and body care products including cleansers, masques, moisturisers, scrubs and soaks! Also I take scented candles and a work-out kit. In fact, I once travelled for a month through the Far East with a 6lb kettle bell and a flexi-bar!

8. You talk about Unlisted London wanting to ‘help you achieve a true sense of what the French call “bien être” - that sense of feeling great about yourself and at peace within yourself.’ What creates this feeling for you?

My feeling of “bien-etre” begins with gratitude for being so fortunate to be able to work hard and play hard through to finding a balance in simple daily rituals. I cherish doing the school run or clearing my mind on long, brisk walks along the Thames early every morning. I read the sports pages as I am mad about nearly all sports. I get great pleasure from entertaining and sharing quality time with family and friends. Most importantly, I hold sacrosanct giving myself “me time” and at minimum will escape weekly to the solitude of a candle lit, long, hot bath and a night enjoying being in my home.

Thank you so much for taking part in this interview.