What flexibility does work freedom give you?
Whilst working for yourself doesn’t necessarily mean more free time, it does offer the freedom to work on your own terms – whether that’s setting your own hours, calling the shots or knowing that every effort you put in is for yourself.
Photographer Cameron Aird set out to capture the stories of female entrepreneurs across Jersey, photographing a diverse range of business owners – from bakers and salon owners to distillers and dance teachers. Each of them has carved out a career that reflects who they are and how they want to work.
We asked them about the moments they’ve been able to make time for because of that flexibility. For some, it’s stepping away when it matters – through family time, a morning swim, or just a quick breather. For others, it’s about having full control over their space, their team, and the way they work.
Through this series, Cameron’s portraits highlight the women behind the businesses – the ones putting in the work to create careers on their own terms, with the flexibility and freedom to shape their own time.
Melanie May
La Bouche
“I love being able to be as creative as possible – I used to draw on the windows of La Bouche in a pen that you could rub off for each different season, or I would create a display for the walls. It’s all your own vision – down to the vintage cutlery and souvenir spoons. Making that come to life is one of the most fulfilling things you can ever do. / I collect souvenir spoons for the restaurant from different places in the world, and every now and then I’ll have a magical moment where a customer happens to be from the same place as the spoon I put on their coffee saucer. It sparks an amazing conversation – being able to speak to customers about their lives, without feeling guilty about it because it’s your business, is one of my favourite things.”
Kirstie Taylor
Flour
“I think the memory that springs to mind would be the first weekend after I opened the new shop at Colomberie. After having designed the interior, taken part in the building and installed furnishings and equipment, I sat down in one of the booth seats at the back of the patisserie and just took a moment to reflect on how my vision had slowly come to life and how it was all just as I imagined but right there in front of me. It was quite a surreal feeling that sparked up such a feeling of accomplishment.”
Lucy Cooper
The Happy Hyroxer
“I got a puppy in November, and the ability to be really flexible with my hours when he arrived home was something I really appreciated. Having the first two weeks off with him was something that I was only able to do because I work for myself.”
Kirsten Emily Chapman
Island Dance
“There’s a freedom in working for yourself, but the best part for me is surrounding yourself with like-minded people, who uplift and inspire you. I’m most proud of the moments when my friends and I are able to create together. We’re able to bounce our ideas off each other, and support each other, we get excited for one another, and always big each other up. Whether it’s live performances, music videos, events, classes or whatever it is, being in control of my own time and having the freedom to work together, creates some really special moments both personally and professionally.”
Dominique Harris
Blend Artistry
“Since becoming my own boss, I’ve relished the freedom to weave work around precious moments with my family, striking a balance that feels right! One core memory is the day I surprised my children with our puppy Ginny, who is now my little salon sidekick. / On top of that, I feel incredibly fortunate to share this journey with my sisters and best friend, working side by side, making everyday more fun!”
Aurelie Verrell
JUST LOLS
“One of the most rewarding moments in my career was opening my own business and creating a space where creativity, passion, and teamwork could thrive. Having the opportunity to build a team, share my artistry, and help clients express themselves through nail design has been an incredible journey. There’s nothing more fulfilling than turning a vision into reality and watching it grow.”
Lauren Rhodes
The Creative Club Jersey
“Every Thursday I take the morning or day off to have a mother-daughter day, when I either go swimming, to the park or to the beach – just me and my daughter. It’s quiet as it’s midweek and the two of us together just get to properly connect. That’s the most precious time to me and I make sure I completely switch off work for it.”
Danielle Gallagher
Lick Studio
“Being a fairly new business, this shoot has been a favourite! Getting involved in celebrating local women and their businesses is a highlight, as is making my own clients feel good by giving them a space to express themselves through nails. I love to sit down and chat with people whilst painting nails all day!”
Claire Evans
Eden by Claire
“I bring my dogs into the shop with me every day. I get to do a job that I’ve loved for 29 years – Eden being nearly 13 years of that – whilst being surrounded by lush plants, flowers and my two frenchies Moss & Fern.”
Sarah Gaudion
Sea Level Distillery
“I have the ability to travel with the children regularly, which I couldn’t do in a more traditional job. We’ve been interrailing around Italy, and gone on trips across Norway, Sweden, Denmark and the Arctic Circle. We’re off to Switzerland in a few weeks and Marrakesh. / It’s important to add, however, that when you work for yourself you’re never actually on holiday. There’s no such thing as a day off!”
