What does luxury mean to you?

Is it being able to afford designer items, five-star trips, or hotels or is it simply being able to cover your bills or even just to spend time with friends and family? The word gets used a lot in the companion world, with many, including myself, using it to describe our kind of company- something rare, refined, and deeply personal.

Photo by Lust for Life

As September rolled in, I noticed a shift that often comes with changing seasons. Enquiries dropped, serious ones disappeared, and timewasters seemed to multiply. The economic and social climate has changed, and the wealth divide feels bigger than ever. I’ve always measured luxury by what I can afford, what I can spend my money on, but lately that doesn’t align with what brings me happiness anymore. Yes, I still love thoughtful gifts.

This past month has given me time to sit with my feelings and focus on my body and health. I joined a new gym with a range of classes like yoga, sound baths, ballet barre that have helped me reconnect with myself. Having time to focus on my body and health has also opened space for creativity. 

When work is quiet, I sometimes panic and question what I’m doing wrong. But I’m starting to see it differently. Maybe it’s the universe pushing me toward my creative passions and my art. I’ve been able to throw myself into my burlesque and striptease research for my funding application, finish costumes for new acts, start writing, finish off the final parts of producing my show in November and prioritise what fuels me. 

When I think back to my teenage self the girl who dreamed aloud about what her adult life might look like it’s amazing how close I’ve come. I choose when I work. I travel more than I ever imagined I could. I go to yoga and the gym a few times a week. I share beautiful meals, cocktails, and laughter with friends. I’ve built a life that gives me freedom and that, to me, is true luxury.

This time has reminded me that time itself is the best luxury of all, the ability to choose how we spend it, who we share it with, and what we give our energy to.

Please note that I realise my privilege in this industry and this is my own opinion/lived experience that I am currently sharing.