Emma Wykes
Welcome to the Jaw-Dropping View.
10 questions. 10 answers.
Highly regarded as something of a maverick within the drinks industry, Emma Wykes tells us about radical acceptance, skiing in Japan and time-travelling to see her 60 year old self.
What does the word jaw-dropping mean to you?
Shock and awe but in a positive way with a naughty smile.
What was the last jaw-dropping thing you saw/heard/experienced?
Much Ado About Nothing with Tom Hiddleston and Hayley Atwell in. It was set as a 90’s dance party so was very nostalgic for my clubbing days.
And being on top of a Japanese mountain on Christmas Day being excitified by my first ski trip in 17 years.
What gives you goose bumps?
A beautiful view, hearing my daughter laughing and being kind, a great shot at tennis, some music, the smell of the beach in Cornwall.
Who is your hero?
My daughter, Isobel. We’ve had a tough couple of years and she is the epitome of optimism and grace.
Any words of advice (either told or read) that changed your life?
Radical acceptance, we spend so much of our lives fighting against things we can’t change, putting energy into people or situations that won’t change. I started practising radical acceptance about 18 months ago and it’s meant I can deal with the trickiest situations with compassion, peace and not hold onto to things that aren’t mine.
What do you see when you look in the mirror?
ME! I’ve worked hard to become who I am today. Being 52 is an absolute joy (other than my creaky knees) and I feel like I’m finally becoming who I’m meant to be and massively getting over my own bullshit.
What part-time jobs did you have growing up?
Oh everything, sandwich maker, babysitter, t-shirt printer in a factory, artists model (only one day), waitress, tv show extra, darner of socks. I wanted to work from such a young age, wanted to earn my own money and build things.
Who was the last person you received flowers from, or sent to, and why?
Sadly, my husband died in February this year (after a 2.5 year cancer journey) so I’ve had a lot of flowers this year. My work colleagues sent me a tree sapling which stood out. I’m about to plant it in my garden.
What would be the title of your memoir?
‘Things you should never say to your boss’ or ‘No expectations’.
You’re given a time machine, where do you go and why?
Not sure I would go backwards truth be told, I would like to jump forward to being 60 and check that I’m actually travelling and living a more nomadic life and having lots of fun. If 60 year old me is still working like I am now, I will have a serious word.
If I did go backwards, it would probably be to Isobel’s early childhood. I would take more time off to hang out with her.