I love connecting with inspiring, go-getters and Jess Arrows is nothing short of this. With a flowing CV filled with experience in major fashion advisories such as Vogue, Elle Magazine and her most recent love (and where all my disposable income goes) Stylerunner & Triple White; is just the start of her grand achievements and life experience. I loved reading every word of Jess' responses to my questions and like the great editor she is, I was left wanting so much more!! #Jessstartyourownblog I hope you enjoy this interview as much as I did!
Could you tell me a little summary of who you are, what you do and what you’re truly passionate about?
Hi! My name is Jess, I’m originally from NZ but grew up across South East Asia in South Korea, Indonesia and Singapore from when I was 6-years-old. I graduated from high school in Singapore and went to university in Boston, before moving to New York, London and now Sydney! I’m currently Editor of Triple White magazine, as well as Stylerunner’s Marketing and PR specialist, which keeps me busy during the workweek. Outside of that, I’m a total fitness fanatic and absolutely LOVE working out, being active and trying new health trends – literally, you name it and I’m there. I’ve also just completed my fitness cert so that I can become a trainer and have some exciting news coming soon on this front!
Tell us a little bit about your health and wellness journey. Where did your love for it begin?
Health, fitness and overall wellness has been a part of my life since as far as I can remember. It’s a running joke that I get it from my parents but it’s honestly also entirely true, haha. My parents have run multiple marathons across the world (including North Korea!), my dad used to compete in Body Building and my parents actually opened the first Gold’s Gym in Australasia back in the day. So, safe to say I get it from them – and so does my brother! I’ve always been very fit and active – I competed in international competitions across Asia for sprinting, as well played competitive touch rugby – so it was a very natural direction for me. I’ve always loved challenging my skillsets and my mental ability to push through physical challenges, trying new things and learning and growing with the rising industry!
Since graduating in 2014 with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology you have gone on to do some incredible things… outside of this field. You have an extremely impressive CV with experience in some of the world’s leading Fashion advisories such as Vogue, Harpers Bazaar, Elle Magazine and currently Triple White & Stylerunner. Take us through your career path and why fashion?
I went to University in Boston where I got a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a minor in Writing. I also studied Business after being accepted into Harvard’s summer school program. While my studies interested me, I was always drawn to high-end fashion editorial and jumped on any and every opportunity I could – including applying to a full-time work experience opportunity at Vogue in New York for 6 months. It was at the same time I was about to spend a semester abroad in London that I got an interview and quickly went down to New York from Boston to interview at Vogue and was offered the role on the spot. From there, the world of editorial and fashion opened up and I was offered roles at other big-name fashion publications when I moved to London. While I did start in the fashion space, I went on to gain experience in other pillars, including beauty, wellness and home décor (interiors).
I have since broadened my career to include marketing, PR and editorial, and honed in on the health, fitness and wellness space. I love being a part of the health and fitness space and it’s definitely where I’ll be staying.
What does a typical day in your working week look like?
Most mornings I go to the gym before heading into the office. I wake up at 6:00 am to make it to a 7:00 am Undercard boxing class or 98 Gym Conditioning class. I LOVE starting my day with a sweat session – it sets me up for the day, places me in a positive mindset and really motivates me for the day ahead. I find it really helps boot any anxiety or stress to the curb and refocus and recollect my thoughts. After work, I’ll sometimes do a different type of physical activity if I feel like it (2 times a week roughly) or head home for a walk with my partner from Bondi to Bronte before dinner to reset and let go of the day before going home. Then, Sam and I will make dinner together or we’ll catch up with some friends for an early dinner. I love reading before going to sleep – even if it’s just for 5 minutes. I find it really puts me in a calm and relaxed state, while forcing me to take time away from any electronics before going to sleep. I usually get to bed between 9:30 pm – 10:00 pm, ensuring I get a full 8 hours of sleep.
If you could pin point one time in your working career where you were made to feel empowered for the work you were doing – what would it be?
That’s a tricky one! I have a few examples but the one that really resonates with me wasn’t actually too long ago! A girl from our office was diagnosed with MS last year and her whole world changed in a matter of days. Luckily, she’s recovering really well but it hasn’t been without a huge battle and so much strength and I truly look up to her for how positive and selfless she is and has remained. I asked if she would mind if I could share her story and she was really excited to help share the messaging around MS and her personal experience. It was a really humbling moment and one that made me realise the impact a platform can really have and the influencer I can have as an editor.
What are some daily rituals/thoughts you perform to promote happiness and wellness within your life?
I always make time for a workout. Working out is my ‘happy’ daily ritual and I really live for not only the sweat session but also the social aspect and endorphins afterward! I try to workout in the mornings to really set my day up with a positive mind frame from the get-go. I also love having a healthy dinner and debrief of the day with my partner Sam – also sometimes a little walk down on the beach (we’re very lucky to live so close to the ocean!). It’s the best way to reset.
Where can we find you #socials?
@jessarrows on insta!