17 Jul 2024
We ask a different figure from the local community to choose 10 questions to answer from a list of 50. This week: Steph Lyon, owner of Sabel Walker Skin & Wellness skin and waxing clinic in St Albans.
What did you want to be when you grew up?
When I was young I told anyone who’d listen that I was going to be a vet during the day and a nightclub singer in the evening. I’ve loved animals for as long as I can remember but I dropped A-level biology in the first month and that put an end to that dream! I’m not sure where the allure of performing exclusively in nightclubs came from but I admire the resolve. I’m actually still waiting to grow up so I’ll keep you posted.
Where do you buy your coffee in St Albans?
Silver Palate on Market Place is over the road from me. The coffee is great and the team is lovely. They remember my fussy order in the mornings, and don’t mind when I inevitably realise the time mid-conversation and have to bolt over to work to prep for my first client.
What’s the first thing you do after you’ve woken up in the morning?
Snooze the alarm multiple times, take my ADHD medication, glance over messages and emails, question whether I actually took my medication or if I just thought about doing it, realise I’m running late and get ready for work.
How long would you survive a zombie apocalypse?
About eight hours. I have zero survival skills and I really hate running.
If you could have a conversation with someone who had died who would it be?
I would love to speak to my Nanny again. She died in 2016 and I wish I could tell her about all the life I’ve experienced since then. She was the inspiration for my business name and I’m sure she’d be as shocked as I am that I managed to get my act together and become an entrepreneur. (And very proud too.)
What object would you save first if your house was on fire?
Well my flatmate would probably be my first priority, but if she wasn’t home I think (rather depressingly) I’d have to say my phone. I’m pretty minimalist and don’t have much of an attachment to ‘stuff’, whereas my phone is my connection to friends, family and business.
Who was your first best friend?
I met my best friend Daisha in reception at four years old. We’re now turning 35 and I haven’t managed to get rid of her yet. People come and go from your life but some friendships are just meant to last forever, and I’m very grateful for that.
What’s your favourite hidden gem in the district?
Obviously it’s Sabel Walker Skin & Wellness! But if I’m not allowed to say that then it’s got to be Sukawatee Thai & Malay restaurant. It’s not really hidden but it’s definitely a gem, with beautifully cooked food and lovely staff. My partner and I went for a drink one evening and the gentleman who served us has remembered our favourite cocktails every time we’ve visited since!
Which day of your life would you most like to relive?
My 21st birthday. I was at Reading Festival with my best friend, the sun was out, The Prodigy were headlining and we didn’t have a care in the world!
If you could travel back in time and offer your younger self some advice, what would it be?
You are enough. One day you’re going to discover why your little neurodivergent brain can’t do the things people expect of you, and you’ll start making your way
through the world on your own terms without worrying about what others think. You
are enough.
