Out of Office

Neill Strain shares his Out of Office essentials

In our Out of Office interview series, we speak to Walpole member and partner executives at the top of their game about how they live their lives away from their desks – the habits that help them decompress, the activities that re-centre their minds, and the little luxuries that they can't live without. This week, we talk 'How to Be a Great Boss', hydrengeas and honey kadaif cheesecake with Founder & Creative Director of floral design studio, Neill Strain
6th Dec 2024
Out of Office Neill Strain shares his Out of Office essentials

Walpole: In a world where we’re always available, how do you separate your personal time from your work time?

Neill Strain: Constant connectivity blurs the lines between personal and professional life, so finding a true separation can be challenging. For me, the passion that gave birth to Neill Strain Floral Couture has woven my work into the fabric of my daily existence. My business is not just a career, it’s an extension of my identity, a manifestation of my creative soul. I am perpetually engaged with it, always envisioning new ways to transform my artistic vision into tangible beauty. However, I have discovered that travel is my sanctuary – a vital source of inspiration that replenishes my creativity and offers the perspective needed to maintain a delicate equilibrium. While the demands of my business are ever-present, travelling allows me to momentarily step back, recharge, and find harmony between my work and personal life.

What’s one thing you do after the workday to help you unwind?

After a demanding day at work, I have a few cherished rituals that help me restore my balance. A couple of evenings each week, I escape to the gym, where I train under the guidance of a personal trainer. This hour of intense exercise serves as a mental sanctuary, allowing me to fully surrender to the rhythm of the workout without the burden of decision-making. The physical exertion offers a refreshing reprieve from the mental intensity of the day, leaving me both energised and calm.

One of the most heartwarming moments comes when I return home to my snow Bengal cat, who never fails to greet me at the door. Her playful energy and mischievous antics are a delightful distraction, pulling me into the present moment and away from the stresses of work. The simple joy of watching her explore the world with such curiosity and grace brings a deep sense of contentment.

Together, these routines are more than just ways to relax – they are essential to my well-being, helping me to decompress and find peace after a busy day.

What activity do you do in your time away from the office that helps you relax and recentre after a stressful week?

In addition to my regular gym sessions, I also engage in reformer Pilates twice a week with a certified instructor. This practice not only enhances my physical wellbeing, but also contributes to my mental health. The precise movements and concentration demanded by Pilates serve as a grounding force, allowing me to unwind and find inner peace. I particularly enjoy the early morning routine and the brief stroll to the nearby studio, which allows me to appreciate the serenity of the neighbourhood before the hustle and bustle of the day begins. Pilates has also significantly improved my posture, which had been suffering from years of standing for long hours and heavy lifting at work.

What’s something you’ve read, listened to, or seen in your spare time that’s helped you at work?

I have never been much of a reader, but I have always enjoyed listening to audio books. One particular book that caught my attention a few years ago was How to Be a Great Boss by Gino Wickman and René Boer. This book serves as a practical guide for leaders who aspire to enhance their effectiveness and inspire those around them.

Over the course of my 16 years as the owner and leader of Neill Strain Floral Couture, overseeing a team of over 30 members, I have come to understand the critical importance of fostering a healthy and positive work culture within my business. I have learned that the success we have achieved would not have been possible without the unwavering support of my incredible team. The authors of How to Be a Great Boss stress that effective leadership is not solely about managing tasks, but about guiding and inspiring people. They present a framework centred on two key elements: managing and leading.

Managing involves setting clear expectations, offering feedback, and holding individuals accountable, while leading focuses on creating a vision, nurturing relationships, and motivating the team. This book is brimming with practical tips, real-world examples, and actionable advice, making it a valuable resource for novice and seasoned leaders alike.

After home and the office, where’s your favourite ‘third space’?

I’m fortunate to live near the exquisite Victoria and Albert Museum, which has become my cherished ‘third space’ – a sanctuary of creativity and inspiration. On weekends, I often find myself drawn to its timeless halls, where I lose myself in the rich tapestry of history and artistry that the museum so beautifully curates. Each visit feels like a journey through different eras and cultures, sparking new ideas and fuelling my creative spirit.

Equally, the Royal Albert Hall holds a special place in my heart. There’s something magical about booking a last-minute ticket and slipping into my favourite seat, where I can see the orchestra in full flow. The experience is nothing short of exhilarating, as the music reverberates through the grand space, igniting my passion and leaving me profoundly moved. These moments, steeped in culture and artistic brilliance, are essential to my well-being, providing a perfect balance to the demands of my business.

On Sunday night, how do you prepare yourself for the week ahead?

Every Sunday night, I take the time to review my schedule for the upcoming week. This allows me to mentally prepare and set my intentions for the days ahead. I make note of any specific goals or tasks I want to accomplish during the week.

One of the key components of my weekly routine is holding team meetings with each of my departments on Mondays. These meetings serve as a valuable opportunity to kick off the week by ensuring that my teams have all the necessary information and resources to excel in their roles. Additionally, it provides me with insight into the challenges and priorities of the week, allowing me to offer support and guidance where needed to help my team succeed.

Best reason you've had to turn your out of office on recently?

I was thrilled to switch on my out-of-office reply recently when I embarked on an adventure to New York. There, I immersed myself in the city’s electrifying energy while reconnecting with old friends. We then rented a car and drove up the coast to Newport, Rhode Island, where we were completely captivated by the opulence of the Gilded Age mansions. As someone whose work is deeply intertwined with architecture and interior design, I found endless inspiration in the intricate details and grandiosity of these historic estates.

Our journey then took us onward to the quaint Martha’s Vineyard, where I was mesmerised by the island’s lush landscapes. The stunning hydrangeas, in shades of pink, blue, and lilac, seemed to paint the scenery with their delicate beauty, offering a refreshing contrast to the bustling island life.

We ended our adventure in Provincetown, a town that quickly stole our hearts. Its vibrant atmosphere, rich cultural scene, and quaint shops and cafes provided the perfect ending to a journey filled with inspiration, relaxation, and a rekindling of my creative spirit.

The OUT OF OFFICE hotlist

Your go-to out of office outfit: A pair of crisp white Paige jeans paired with a chic beige T-shirt from Massimo Dutti. I layer it with a stylish floral print 'shacket' from Karo, which adds just the right touch of flair. To complete the look, I slip on my favourite loafers from Harrys London – a hidden gem on Motcomb Street – and a sleek leather belt from Aurélien.

Your happy place anywhere in the world: Sitting on the beach in the Maldives – I can't help but feel completely disconnected from the world and marvel at the pure white sand and crystal-clear water. It is my ultimate happy place.

Your favourite bar or restaurant: The Bar at Baccarat Hotel in New York is a place that radiates mystery and sophistication. Unlike the adjacent Grand Salon, The Bar has its own distinct charm, drawing inspiration from the grand American long bars of the past, the opulent ballrooms of French hôtels particuliers, and even the stables of Versailles. The space is defined by its striking barrel-vaulted ceiling and rich natural wood walls, creating a setting that feels both intimate and grand.

The lighting and mirrors are used to brilliant effect, adding a touch of drama to the already captivating atmosphere. When I’m there, I always order a very dry gin martini with a twist. It’s expertly crafted and served in one of their stunning Baccarat glasses – a drink that’s as elegant as the surroundings.

Something cultural or sporting you booked recently that you'd recommend: I received a voucher for the Leiths Cookery School from my team last Christmas. I recently attended a Saturday class focused on Middle Eastern cuisine, and it was truly an unforgettable experience. During the class, we prepared spiced lamb rump with moutabal and chickpea flatbreads with feta, and finished with a delectable honey kadaif cheesecake. I was thoroughly impressed by the dishes we created and delighted by the new culinary skills I acquired. I highly recommend taking a professional cookery class to anyone looking to expand their cooking knowledge and skills. As the saying goes, you can never stop learning!

Something you've listened to or read recently that you'd recommend and why: The Four Obsessions of an Extraordinary Executive by Patrick Lencioni. This is a business fable that explores the fundamental principles of effective leadership. 

A hobby you'd like to cultivate: Cooking!

A luxury that’s actually a necessity: Fragranced candles. I have a deep passion for scents, so much so that I have developed my own line of luxury fragranced candles. I constantly burn candles in my home as I believe they have the power to enhance my mood and create a more inviting atmosphere. With a collection of seven unique fragrances, I select one to burn based on my current mood. I enjoy experimenting with blending by burning different scents together to create entirely new and captivating olfactory experiences.

Best luxury under £25: I am currently enamoured with the Elemis Superfood skincare range, particularly the Multi Mist. This 4-in-1 facial mist is formulated to hydrate, nourish, and prime the skin with antioxidant-rich superfoods. I enjoy the invigorating burst of freshness it provides each morning during my skincare routine, and the scent is incredibly refreshing.  

> Visit Neill Strain Floral Couture's member profile

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