Ruth Monahan

The co-founder and creative director of Apassionata Flowers tells Elle Gordon all about her favourite people, places and things

The person

Ultan — my husband, business partner and best friend; the man who has shared my life’s roller-coaster moments and makes me laugh each day.

The memory

As my kids get older, I often think about the first time I saw both their faces and held them close.

The moment of the day

Dawn. I love being up at the beginning of each day and enjoying the morning start — which is a good thing, as our flower world and kids both love a 6am beginning!

The song

Currently, I have Bloodflow by Grandbrothers on repeat.

The movie

I love Song of the Sea by Cartoon Saloon

— it’s a beautiful animation for both adults and kids. I was so inspired by the documentary Pina by Wim Wenders too.

The hero

People who strive to make the world a better place — from the teams at Medecins Sans Frontieres, to Father Peter McVerry and Sister Stan, to Bill and Melissa Gates. In business, it would be Louise Phelan, vice-president of PayPal and my business mentor. Also, my Going for Growth gang, who inspire me with all they create in their own companies.

The book

Stoner by John Williams — a vintage classic and a very sad story, but so beautifully written.

The outfit

I love mixing up colours and textures, so I play with outfits daily.

The accessory

I love my Lulu Frost vintage chain-mail neckpiece from Loulerie, and wear it nearly daily.

The gadget

My iPhone is nearly part of me, but I also think that a pineapple corer is an ingenious thing.

The pet hate

I hate meanness — there is no need for it.

The friend

I am lucky to have wonderful friends from all life stages, and can count on them no matter what.

The beauty product

I love the Niod range of products for my skin, and I don’t feel dressed unless I have put on my LeLabo Rose31 perfume.

The holiday

The Greek Islands have given me the best holidays over the last few years. The turquoise seas and stunning skies keep me going during the dark winter nights.

The piece of advice

Always remember that you have no idea what is going on in other people’s heads or lives, so communication is key — rather than telepathically projecting what you think is going on.

The drink

Currently a Don Daisy [Bacardi rum, elderflower liqueur, vermouth, lemon juice, sugar syrup, egg white]. Ultan fixes a mean cocktail when we get home late after a frantic Friday.

The hotel

The Westbury is like a home from home, both in work and life.

The bar

I love the terrace in The Sidecar Bar at The Westbury, and Hargadons Pub at home in Sligo is pretty special.

The hobby

My main hobby is gardening.

The part of my body

I have a very heightened sense of smell, which is wonderful when our freshly cut Irish eucalyptus arrives from Waterford, or when I dive into David Austin roses.

The celebrity

Meryl Streep in film and life; Miranda Brooks and her garden-design aesthetic; Hillary Clinton for being so brave in her election loss and turning it into a positive.

The virtue

I think its important to congratulate and be happy for people on their successes, and to share information if you can help in any area of life.

The vice

I like too many nice things.

The smell

My kids’ hair after a bath; and a blast of the Atlantic on a stormy day at home in Sligo.

The taste

I love marmalade.