My Weekend: ‘With a busy house, early morns are the norm’

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your work?

As vice-chair of The Marketing Institute Ireland, Cork (MII Cork), I am currently in full annual ball prep mode.

This year’s theme for the MII Cork ball is ‘Come Fly With Me’. Taking place on Saturday, March 1, at Vienna Woods Hotel, this glamorous event is a highlight for the local business and marketing community.

When I’m not working voluntarily on the MII Cork committee, my full-time role is leading the Department of Marketing and International Business at MTU, where I’m inspired daily by my talented colleagues and students.

Their enthusiasm for marketing, digital innovation, and business fuels my own passion.

My journey to academia has been unconventional.

I initially trained as a solicitor and spent fulfilling years in family law.

After taking time to raise my three children, I moved into education, lecturing first at UCC and later at MTU, where I’ve been leading my department for three years.

I’m a proud Cork woman and have lived in Midleton most of my life. East Cork’s beauty — from its stunning beaches to its lively community — continuously inspires me.

What is your ideal way to spend a Friday night?

I love catching up with friends over dinner and plenty of laughs. Midleton has so many fantastic restaurants, so there’s always somewhere great to go. I’m also a big fan of live music.

Lie ins or up with the lark.. which is it for you?

With a busy household, early mornings are the norm. I like to be up with the lark to make the most of the day.

Those peaceful moments before the house wakes up set the tone for a productive day. Early starts mean I can squeeze in some “me time” before family and work commitments kick in.

Does work creep into your weekend at all?

Occasionally! When you’re passionate about what you do, it’s hard to completely switch off.

Planning the MII Cork Ball 2025 means weekends often involve coordinating exciting elements, like finalising goody bags, menu tastings for the four-course meal, and organising the entertainment such as this year’s band ‘The Boogie Band’, the DJs, MCs and so on. There’s always something to review or arrange!

That said, I make a conscious effort to balance work with downtime. Weekends are also about family, hobbies, and recharging. I’ve learned that stepping away helps me approach work with fresh energy on Mondays.

If money was no object, where would you head to on a weekend city break? And who would you bring with you?

Tokyo! The mix of modern energy and deep-rooted tradition fascinates me.

I’d love to explore its vibrant streets, enjoy the unique culture, and savour the incredible food. I’d bring my husband and our three children for the adventure — I’d love for them to experience something so different from home.

Closer to home, is there someplace you like to head to recharge the batteries?

Garryvoe beach is my go-to spot. A walk by the sea with my dog clears the mind and refreshes the spirit.

There’s something so calming about the sound of waves and the crisp sea air. For variety, I also love the peaceful trails of Castlemartyr Woods.

Do you like to catch up with family/friends at the weekend?

Absolutely! Whether it’s a casual coffee, a dinner out, or a chat at home, these moments are so important.

With such busy schedules during the week, weekends are perfect for reconnecting.

I’m also looking forward to catching up with so many wonderful people at the MII Cork Ball 2025 on Saturday, March 1.

Do you get to indulge any hobbies? Even as a spectator?

I love getting lost in a good book. Agatha Christie is one of my all-time favourite authors — I can’t resist the twists and turns of a classic mystery. Reading helps me unwind and recharge.

I’m also a fan of live music and have tickets lined up for some exciting concerts this year.

Whether it’s diving into a gripping novel or soaking up the energy of a live performance, these moments inspire and energise me.

Entertain or be entertained? If it’s the latter do you have a signature dish?

Both. I enjoy hosting from time to time — my hearty lasagna is a reliable crowd-pleaser — but I definitely lean toward being entertained. There’s something special about sitting down to a beautifully prepared meal where someone else does the cooking.

That said, I’m especially looking forward to entertaining Cork’s business and marketing community at the MII Cork Ball 2025.

We have so many places to eat out in Cork - where are your go to spots for coffee/ lunch/ special meal?

Cork has so many amazing spots.

For coffee, Rostellan Farm is a favourite — their coffee is fantastic, and the peaceful setting is a bonus. For dinner, I love Ferrit and Lee in Midleton; the food is exceptional, and the atmosphere is perfect for a night out.

For dessert, Bernie’s in Midleton is my go-to — their sweet treats never disappoint.

Sunday night comes around too fast.. how do you normally spend it?

Sunday nights are about winding down.

I usually spend the evening catching up on a good book or watching a family movie. It’s my way of recharging before the busy week ahead.

What time does your alarm clock go off on Monday morning?

My alarm goes off at 6.30am, but with three children, the house quickly comes to life.

Starting early helps me stay organised and ready to tackle the day ahead.

Anything else you are up to right now...

The MII Cork “Come Fly with Me” Ball 2025 is my biggest focus.

It promises to be an evening of glamour and giving. Starting with a drinks reception at 7pm, this black-tie event features a four-course dinner, live music, and exciting surprises.

We’ll also celebrate rising talent with the Marketing Student of the Year Awards for MTU and UCC.

Plus, we’re raising funds for Good Shepherd Cork, which supports women, children, and families at risk of homelessness.

Tickets are €150 per person and are available at MII.ie. Last year, we raised €6,500, and we’re aiming even higher this year.

Beyond the ball, I’m focused on supporting students and staff at MTU as we embrace exciting opportunities in marketing and business. It’s a busy but rewarding time, and I can’t wait to see these initiatives come to fruition.