MY ISLAND STORY | CO-FOUNDER EVELYN JOYCE
Co-founder Evelyn Joyce shares the story of how she left the city and moved to the island. Now she couldn’t imagine living anywhere else. The island is very much home. Read about her favourite spots and her vision for the future.
Why the Isle of Wight
I’ve now lived on the Isle of Wight (the ‘island’ as we affectionally refer to it) for just over 5 years now. And I can honestly say that it was the best decision I have ever made. From the outset it felt like home and that I was meant to be here.
But how did I come to living here? - short answer, I met a sailor! At the time I was living in Birmingham, I had been to University there and settled into corporate life. I didn’t see myself staying in Birmingham, but I hadn’t been given a reason to leave. My dad is Cornish so I spent a lot of time by the sea growing up and loved an excuse for an adventure and being outside. After 3 months of dating, my boyfriend (now husband) asked if I was considered moving to the island - with no hesitation I said yes. To be honest, the opportunities for a sailor in Birmingham (despite the canals :-P) were somewhat limited! 3 months down the line we moved into our first home…
Best thing (s) about living on an island
Number 1 is definitely the sense of community. I felt very welcome from the moment I arrived. As the community is so tight knit, it’s obvious when a new person arrives. Everyone is keen to get you involved in island life and introduce you to people with similar interests.
The environment, from sandy beaches, to hidden coves, to the downs, forests, lagoons and rivers. Its unique mix of plants and animals has been recognised by UNESCO and as such it has been designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, helping to preserve it for future generations. There are plenty of opportunities to explore and nothing is too far out of reach (generally speaking you never have to travel more than 30 minutes by car).
Your favourite place (s) on the Isle of Wight
So my two of my favourite spots combine beautiful scenery with a food stop…
A walk up Tennyson Down followed by lunch at The Piano Cafe.
A walk around the Hamstead Estate (taking in sea views, farmland and forest) before popping to Yarmouth for a tea and cake to-go from PO41.
A run along the sea front in the Cowes - I love turning off the high street (by the RNLI) and down on to the parade, the view will never get old.
What’s your vision for the future here
To build the wellness offering on the island that showcases and serves to protect the natural landscape.
To work with other businesses and instructors on the island to deliver unique wellness experiences.
To enable more people to experience a little slice of island life, whether that be joining us on the island (for fitness on the beach, SUP yoga or a retreat), or through our online studio - bringing the island directly to you!
And ultimately grow our family home here.
