O5. A WHINE WITH JESSICA LONGHURST, THE BOSS BEHIND THE WHINE.
As a hairdresser, Jessica has business women sit in her chair for hours each day. In that time, she is privy to their raw experiences - the ups and downs of owning a business, the tough times and the bright times. She found herself continually thinking, “I wish other women could hear this valuable, first-hand advice”, and from there, The WHINE was born. Described by Jessica as down to earth, inspiring conversations, The WHINE is an evolving platform for local female entrepreneurs to connect, chat and create. As our beloved Gold Coast continues to boom, so do female-owned businesses, and Jessica is determined to share the stories of these women. But first, a little bit about The Whine and the boss behind it…
Who is Jessica Longhurst?
Born and bred on the Gold Coast, I grew up by the beach in Coolangatta. I've been a hairdresser for 15 years and founded The Studio Upstairs in Burleigh Heads. I'm lucky enough to be surrounded by so many strong and talented businesswomen. Determined to share their stories and advice, I recently started a new project with my team, and one I'm very passionate about, The WHINE.
Can you describe The Whine in a few words?
Down-to-earth, inspiring conversations
What is The Whine, and what inspired it?
I have the opportunity to sit with some amazing people in my chair every day. I'm lucky enough to chat about business and the ups and downs with women who have their own businesses or are looking to start their journey. I listened to their experiences and would think, "wow, I wish other people could hear this". I genuinely connect with them on that kind of business level, and always feel inspired. I wanted to create something where I could have other local business women come together and share their experiences, in a down-to-earth kind of way. That's how The WHINE started.
You've already connected with some pretty incredible women at Whine, can you tell us about some of them and share some insight? Do you have a favourite conversation or moment?
A few months ago we had our second Whine event at The Studio Upstairs with Mikki (Mikki Auld Hair), Erin (Clean Beauty Market), and Monique (The Beauty Journal) which was incredible. We had a room full of aspiring local women, led by boss women who are killing it in their industries. Everyone had such precious insights and shared some valuable advice about how our journeys are different but so similar in a way. Collectively, we're not all competing against each other; we should be here to support each other, whether you're a direct competitor or in different industries, we can learn from each other. But I think some insight I can share, that I've discovered in the past few years, is that success shouldn't be measured by how busy you are. Just because you're busy doesn't mean you're successful - it really comes down to how you live your life and your happiness.
Why do you think it's important for women to connect and talk about their experiences?
I think our perception of women in business is shifting. We are women, our conditioning is different from men and therefore, we don't need to follow the muscular stereotype of how to run business. We perceive success as strong and tough, a 'don't give a fuck about anyone and put yourself first' attitude. As women, it's not always like that. It's important to find a balance. We can be tough but fair, strong yet gentle and kind. That's our strength, and one we should be proud of. I think women in business are still finding their way and that's OK. But also, that's why it's so important to connect with other women and encourage one another to be in business.
Dream guest at Whine?
Almost everyone who sits in my chair inspires in some way or another. Anyone who has leapt to do their own business inspires me. I want to speak to everyone, haha! I think YSL Jewels are fantastic, I like what her brand stands for. Also, Three Birds Renovation. Three girls are taking over renovations, a predominately male industry. It's fucking awesome.
Future plans for The Whine?
I would love to expand into a Podcast. Our base will always be the Gold Coast, but it's a broader way to connect our audiences. I'd also love to host more regular and larger events in 2021.