Adelaide’s Most Successful And Relatable Women

Amelia Mulcahy, Ch.7 Weather Presenter

“You can have it all, but not at once. And trust me, no one actually does and enjoys it. I’ve learned (and am still learning) that I can’t do everything, and be everywhere. It’s ok to say no, and in the year ahead I want to work more on being in, and appreciating the present moment.”

Rebecca Morse, SAFM Breakfast Announcer

“2021 has been a year of new beginnings with the launch of a business The Style Hosts (helped along by a shoot at Blancspace Maison of course). This has been out of my comfort zone, but that’s where the magic happens, right? I’m learning to say yes to things that scare me, no to things that don’t feel right, to place a value on my time and be accountable for things that are within my control but not apologise for things that aren’t. Next year I’m excited to launch into a fourth year at SAFM, grow the business and FINALLY travel with my family and friends.”

Lauren Dilena, Stylist & Blancspace Maison Brand Ambassador

"2021 has been a wild ride; highs, lows and everything in-between. With Covid still looming and a wedding to plan, nothing has been smooth sailing. However, I’ve managed to find myself in a good place and I’ve achieved this by always searching for the positive in any situation - believe me, if you look, you’ll find the silver-lining. In 2022 I will not sweat the small things and I’ll be continuing to manifesting positivity in order to prosper."

Libby Rayner, Communications Director Sky City Adelaide

“I don’t think there’s one right way for people to manage in the midst of a pandemic, but for me the best way was to prepare for risk so everything didn’t feel like firefighting. Considering and planning for multiple scenarios is more work in the preparation, but helps to diffuse alarm or panic when presented with a less than ideal scenario. 2021 also taught me what a supportive community South Australia is. There’s a lot of small business people in South Australia with shared aspirations. Perhaps previously you’d assume there was natural rivalry that would involve being discouraging of the competition vying for business in trying circumstances. 2021 has been the polar opposite. We have seen people sharing information, giving credit and making key business introductions and recommendations to their counterparts in an impressively inclusive fashion.   

In approaching 2022 my motto is; focus on what you can control and then work to the conditions. Surround yourself with a diverse and strong group of friends and go-to people who can support you in case you have an emergency or are seeking honest advice (and that you can support in return).”

Suzannah Toop, CEO Toop+Toop Real Estate

“They say Perfection is the enemy of Progress, and this year I have really learned to embrace this. Running multiple businesses with a 14 month old, I have learned to say yes to new opportunities and move forward even if the finer details are still unclear. If they are important decisions, whether in family, life or business, the detail will always work itself out.

Finding ways to blend life, work and family is a challenge for so many of us. My tip is be proactive to make sure it happens. Take time at the start of the year to map out holidays, family trips or that road trip you’ve been dying to go on with friends. If you start the year with this already blocked out, the busyness that will no doubt come, won’t get in the way of finding this balance.”

Suzannah Toop (right) with her sister Genevieve Toop at Blancspace Maison.

Alice Healy, Photographer

“What a year it has been, it is so nice to pause and reflect on all that has happened. This last year has taught me to be at peace with uncertainty. I have felt such gratitude for all that I have and spent less time worrying about the things that are out of my control.

I am so excited for the New Year; to focus on being kind to myself and to others. With continued uncertainty in the community I feel it is more important than ever to be respectful of others and mindful that you don’t always know what people may be going through.”

Lucy Fennell, Style Influencer & Marketing Manager

“This year, I have learnt that things don’t always go as planned, in business and life. I have learnt to count my blessings, celebrate the wins and try my best to not be derailed when things don’t go as expected. Life is never a straight line. In 2022, I hope to set aside personal time to remain grounded, and to feel my way through creative decisions with consideration and intuition - to show up for myself fully and back my visions and ideas. Believe in myself, trust the process, and enjoy the now.”

Laura Mappas (right) at the BloomBar launch

Laura Mappas, Editor SA Style Magazine

“What have I learned in 2021? I think the most pivotal lesson I have learned this year is to try and slow down a little, which is often easier said than done with three kids, magazine deadlines, family commitments and everything else that comes with being a busy working mum. Thankfully, I have a fabulous team at work and at home who all help to keep the wheels turning, I also have a lot of flexibility when it comes to my working hours and a husband who often picks up the pieces when I’m madly trying to get South Australian Style to print! This year, perhaps more than ever before, I have willingly accepted all of their help. I don’t have to do everything on my own - there’s nothing wrong with delegating!”