Ida Tirimacco’s Best Life
Hair salon co-owner Ida Tirimacco has penned a chapter in a new book, reflecting on the strength and resilience required to thrive in business and empower others. Beyond the salon, Ida is a proud ambassador for Catherine House and the arts.
Describe the best day of your life.
I’ve been lucky to have many best days in my life, but a few stand out for very different reasons. Opening my own business was a huge moment that took courage and completely changed the course of my life. Years later, bringing home my gorgeous dog Gigi filled my heart in a whole new way, reminding me of the simple, unconditional joy that love brings. And more recently, completing and publishing my chapter in Empowered Women Empower Women was incredibly special. The opportunity to share my story so openly was both empowering and emotional. Each of these moments represents a different kind of fulfilment, and together, they’ve shaped who I am today.
What brings you joy in life?
Being able to support others, whether it’s through my role as a Catherine House ambassador, which I’ve proudly held for five years, or in the everyday moments with my loyal clients. Catherine House supports women experiencing homelessness, and being part of their mission has given me so much purpose. I feel honoured to stand beside such an important cause through raising awareness, fundraising, or simply sharing their message. At the same time, I’ve built deep, lasting relationships with clients who’ve supported me through every stage of my career. I truly believe that if you can help, you should. Being there for others, in both big and small ways, is what fills my heart.
What’s the best advice you’ve been given?
To treat people the way you want to be treated. It’s shaped how I work, how I lead, and how I live. I’ve also learned the value of working hard, giving back, and looking after yourself because you can’t support or inspire others if you’re running on empty. That advice has stayed with me through every chapter of life and continues to guide me every day.
What is your most treasured photograph you have and why?
My most treasured photo is one with my younger sister, not just because I think we look adorable, but because it captures the closeness we’ve always had. She’s been my biggest fan, loudest cheerleader, and constant support through everything. That photo always makes me smile – it’s a reminder of how lucky I am to have her in my corner, then and now.
Describe the best meal you’ve ever eaten.
I’ve been lucky to enjoy many beautiful dining experiences, but one that stands out was celebrating a birthday at Grotta Palazzese in Polignano a Mare which is a breathtaking restaurant set inside a cave and overlooking the sea. The setting, the atmosphere, and the food were unforgettable. But if I’m honest, the best meal I’ve ever had was much simpler. Coming home after five months backpacking through Europe and sitting down to my mum’s famous eggplant parmigiana. After living out of a backpack and eating on the go, that home-cooked meal was everything. It was comforting, familiar, and made with love. Nothing compares.
What was your best purchase?
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One of my best purchases was a stunning Moschino coat I found many years ago while holidaying in Northern Italy. At the time, Franco Moschino was the head designer, known for his quirky and clever fashion statements. It was definitely a Pretty Woman moment. I walked into a boutique where I wasn’t even allowed to touch the clothes, so I left feeling uncomfortable and dismissed. Not long after, I stumbled across another store with sale items outside. The owner invited me in to view their new winter stock, and that’s when I found it, a patent black coat with bold buttons that read: “You can’t judge a girl by her clothes”. The message felt perfect. It’s a story I’ve shared with my team as a reminder to never judge too quickly, you just never know who is sitting in your chair.
What are the best qualities of your favourite person?
I don’t really have a favourite person because it feels a bit like choosing a favourite hair product. How do you pick just one? But the quality I admire most is kindness, especially when it comes with honesty and a good sense of humour. The people who can laugh with you, lift you up, and keep things real, that’s who I love having around.
What are the best five songs on your playlist?
It depends on what I’m doing and my mood. It varies because I love all different genres of music. I can’t narrow it to five, so I have my top six.
Come Undone – Duran Duran
L’Amour Toujours (small mix) – Gigi D’agostino
Infinity 2008 – Guru Josh Project, Klaas
Next to Me – RUFUS DU SOL
Sonnentanz (Sun Don’t Shine) – Klangkarussell, Will Heard
Feel So Close – Calvin Harris
