MY ISLAND STORY | CO-FOUNDER JENNY STEWART
Co- founder Jenny couldn't have imagined how much a decision to relocate to the Isle of Wight would reshape her life. After working in marketing for over 10 years , having grown up by the coast - she yearned to live and work by the sea… the rest is history!
Why the Isle of Wight?
It was good old Rightmove that led us to the Isle of Wight initially due to looking for a home near the sea! My husband and I got on a ferry one day and just fell in love with a house and the island as soon as we arrived. After a few hurdles, we bought the first house we saw here. I quit my full time job, and decided that when we arrived I would put all my energy into teaching yoga. At the time it seemed like a bit of a crazy move from our very settled lives near London. We knew no one here, I was giving up a good job and my husbands commute would be longer, but I always carry the quote ‘change is opportunity’ with me and it felt so full of exciting promise to make the leap here (and still does)
Best thing (s) about living on an island
When you step onto the ferry you feel like you are leaving the madness of the busy world behind you. There’s more space here , to breathe and to think. You are surrounded by sea and countryside. The sea has also always been a place of calm for me and it gives me a sense of perspective if I’m feeling stressed, so the fact that I live on an island surround by water is amazing. I will never take for granted the fact that I can walk 10 minutes to the beach.
There is also an amazing community of like minded young people - entrepreneurs, athletes, chefs, sailors and more. I’ve felt so supported in the business since I arrived here - I’m not sure you get that feeling in many places anymore.
Also the island SUNSETS are just other worldly (if you haven't experienced one , you’ll just have to come over!!) and the crystal clear water is just incredible too.
Your favourite place (s) on the Isle of Wight
This is so tough, so I’ve whittled it down.
Here’s my top 3:
Freshwater Bay for a sunrise swim in crystal clear water and paddle boarding along the coastline and in the caves (check out our SUP Safaris)
Totland Bay to Colwell Bay for a sunset walk and sea dip and a cheeky cocktail at The Hut.
Compton Bay at low tide is just breathtaking. Every time I teach yoga on this beach, it blows me away.
What’s your vision for the future here
The Island is an incredible place to live and bring up a family. I can’t see myself settling anywhere else now.
With Balance + Glo and it’s amazing team, I’m truly passionate about creating a lasting positive impact on the Isle of Wight, as sustainable business and continue showcasing this incredible island biosphere of natural wonder and uniqueness, setting it up as the top wellness destination in the UK.
