Meet the Business Owner: Patricia Lyons from Heart & Soul Albury
Nestled in the heart of Albury, Heart & Soul is a unique space for local artisans and makers, giving them a platform to showcase their passion and creativity. It is a space that reflects not just products, but the heart and spirit of local craftsmanship.
AlburyCBD: Patricia, tell us a little about yourself. What’s something people might not know?
Patricia: I’ve been an administrative professional since the late 1980s, which has given me a strong foundation for running my own business. I’m married to a talented woodturner, and together we have two wonderful kids, plus one heavenly child from a previous relationship.
AlburyCBD: Tell us about Heart & Soul Albury. What’s your why, and what do you love about running your business?
Patricia: I started Heart & Soul to provide my husband and a select group of local makers with a venue to showcase their passion and creativity. They truly put their heart and soul into what they do, and I wanted them to have an outlet right in the centre of Albury. I also love being my own boss. I find that this offers me a much better work-life balance.
AlburyCBD: What’s a challenge you’ve had to overcome in business?
Patricia: The biggest challenge for me has been adjusting to the unpredictability of income.
I was accustomed to a steady paycheck and a set budget, but now, each week can be a surprise as I never know what my earnings will be. It has definitely been a learning curve.
AlburyCBD: What would you be doing if you weren’t running Heart & Soul Albury?
Patricia: If I weren’t running Heart & Soul, I would still be working part-time at Jindera Pharmacy on Fridays and managing some work from home on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.
I maintain my role at Gateway Health in Wodonga on Mondays and Tuesdays, so I would likely continue juggling those commitments.
AlburyCBD: What do you love about being in the AlburyCBD?
Patricia: I love being in the CBD because of the wonderful people I get to meet and chat with daily. It’s also great for exposing the makers to a diverse audience who might not typically see their work. The connection with the community here is invaluable.
You can visit Heart & Soul Albury in CityWalk Arcade, Shop 12/519 Dean St. Be sure to support local artisans by popping in for a visit or following them on Instagram and Facebook.
Some answers have been lightly edited for flow and clarity.
Images supplied by Heart & Soul, Albury.