In our latest installment of ‘In The Biz’, our series of interviews helping you get to know the movers & shakers of Ireland’s fashion industry, we talk with Joanne Byrne who’s clients include Dundrum Town Centre, Karen Millen and Louis Walsh!

What’s your current role?
Co-owner of Presence PR

How did you get there?
By taking a punt and learning the PR ropes in a childrens charity followed by working in a PR agency before biting the bullet and setting up shop with Sinead Ryan.

What did you want to be growing up?
A vet (Francis was chosen for my confirmation name because he is the patron saint of animals…need I say more!)

What does a typical day look like for you?
The great thing about my chosen profession is that no day is the same. Every day will involve me writing (releases, speeches, pitches) being on the phone (canvassing, encouraging, giving out!) and at some stage being involved in fashion – whether issuing look books, organizing fashion shoots, shows or photocalls. Many people think that I spend the day working with celebrities and this is so far from the truth.

Today I’m wearing…?
A very white shirt from Cos with a lovely black grosgrain ribbon, black skinny jeans from River Island (they do shorter length jeans which I LOVE) and black wedge boots from Oasis with a M&S Limited edition white coat with black belt which I could have sold ten times over, people don’t believe its M&S!!

Two adjectives to describe your style?
Classic with a twist

Style icon?
Jackie O

Favourite trend this season?
Love camel and black lace

Favourite beauty product?
Liz Earle Cleanse and Polish, Aqua di Parma Assoluta

Can’t live without…?
Ruby red lip gloss from Clinique

Style or Trends?
Style with a hint of trend!

Favourite hangout?
As Robbie (Fox) is back where he belongs, it has to be The Pink. But I love The Exchequer for its Sunday Roast, Odessa for Saturday brunch, Expresso for Sunday brunch.

Friday night treat?
Cheese N Onion Pringles and more than 4 segments of Terrys Chocolate Orange
whilst catching up on what I had recorded during the week

Your perfect weekend is…?
In Ireland – A sunny weekend in Fenit Co Kerry
Abroad – heading off to somewhere new with a Lonely Planet Guidebook in my
hand!

Last time you laughed out loud?
Sinead describing how her niece had come to finalising her Christmas list.

What’s on your iPod?
I am referred to as Amish woman in this office so no iPod.

What advice would you give anyone trying to break into the business?
Have some understanding of the business and what area you want to go into. Do your homework and be prepared. Be aware its not a 9 – 5pm business and with all things your integrity is vital. Your word is your bond. With all jobs. No matter how small. That’s how you get a good rep.

If you could write your ideal job description, what would it be?
Looking for someone to travel first class, be prepared to sit in the front rows of all couture shows globally, be able to converse with all celebrities whilst at the same time retain their own humour and integrity. This job comes with a AAA badge to every big gig in the world across all fashion and entertainment events. Too much?????

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