Linda Stinson is the founder of Bellamianta and Iconic Bronze tan. Here she shares her favourite spots in her home village in Pomeroy, Co. Tyrone.
Tell us a little bit about yourself and your business.
From a very young age, I had always known I wanted to have my own business. I had a bad experience on my wedding day with a spray tan; it had clumped on my back where I had patches of eczema and my dress had a plunging backline. That’s when I decided I was going to develop a top quality false tan. I now own two brands, Bellamianta and Iconic Bronze. Both are experiencing rapid growth and are very successful. I can never rest on my laurels however, as the beauty industry is highly competitive.
What is your first memory of Pomeroy?
Pomeroy is where most of my family still live. It holds memories of my wonderful childhood playing with friends in open fields and forest. My earliest memory is of my younger sister’s christening. I was wearing my favourite blue and white nightdress; the fire was blazing, and I was lying in the baby’s pram. Random, I know!
Best place for a coffee and a cake?
My mother’s kitchen table. As one of seven siblings, our family home is always our favourite gathering place. This is always home to us, and you are guaranteed to leave with your cup – and tummy – full. Here you will find anything from an apple turnover to your favourite chocolate bar.
Best place to connect with nature?
Pomeroy forest which now has many trails including the Renardine trail. It is a gorgeous 4km trail that I love to do with my husband and our three daughters. We usually dander around and stop to look at the gorgeous trees, greenery and any wildlife that comes across us such as birds, squirrels, or if we’re lucky a wild rabbit. It’s good for the soul.
Best place to feel like a local?
Has to be Gilly’s Bar. It is the best place to go for a drink of choice – whatever your poison is. I usually go for a lovely Malbec or Vodka and Diet Coke. Like any typical small village bar, there is plenty of craic to be had and you are guaranteed to run into plenty of familiar faces.
Best place for a special meal?
The Rusty Keg is a great spot for good food when you’re hungry but for something special, The Brewers House in Donaghmore is definitely my favourite.
Can you share an interesting fact about Pomeroy?
Pomeroy is the highest village in Northern Ireland. It is also the centre of Ulster.
Where do you go when you need to feel inspired?
Into the garden to watch the sunset, lose my mind and find my soul. We get the best 360 views of gorgeous fields from our back garden, and a full show from sunrise to sunset. It is especially beautiful in the summer time when the nights are long and bright.
