Renya Xydis of Valonz on all things Paddington

Tell us a little bit about your background – where did you grow up?

I grew up in Maroubra with my mum, dad and older sister. Being first generation Australian, it was great to live in an area that had so many other Greeks and Europeans in it. It always had a really close, community feel and everyone knew everyone, which I loved. 

What do you love most about where you work?

I love being in Paddington, the location is really central and the people that live there and that work in neighboring businesses are great! Over the years we’ve built up a really great clientele base, adding to the great atmosphere in our salon. 

What’s one place everyone should go to when they come to Paddington?

Alimentari! There’s a really cool vibe there and being so popular, it’s a great place to network. I love indulging in their butterfly sponge cake, which is served with fresh cream and strawberries. Their schnitzel salad is also delicious and always a good option for lunch!

How would you describe your personal style?

I think hair is everyone’s best accessory and can complete any outfit. With pink hair, I tend to keep my wardrobe quite easy, interchanging key pieces to create new outfits. There’s definitely a lot of black in my wardrobe but I also love finding unique, on trend pieces from Australian designers and playing with block colours and prints that I can work into an outfit. 

Where can I find the best breakfast in Paddington?

Jackie’s Café is definitely one of the best. It’s iconically Paddington and a great spot for a Saturday breakfast. 

It’s late, you’ve only just finished up at Valonz and want to grab dinner in the area. Where do you go?

If I were picking something up on my way home, I’d usually stop by Thomas Dux. There’s some great healthy options that are ready-made and if I need to, I can do a little grocery shop whilst I’m there as well.  

How would you spend a typical Sunday in Sydney?

For me, Sunday is a relaxing family day. My mum usually comes over and her and I will cook Greek dishes that we’ve all grown up eating. With both my sons now living out of home, they usually come over on a Sunday to hang out and spend time with the family.

What do you love doing when you’re not busy?

When I’m not busy, I love spending time in my at-home workshop in my garage. I have a lot of dolly heads with different wigs on that I like to play around with, experimenting with different and new techniques and styles. I actually come up with a lot of my ideas here and can often be found perfecting a look here in the lead up to a big fashion show or editorial shoot. 

Are there any date nightspots throughout Sydney that you like to visit with your husband?  

We love going to the movies together; The Verona in Paddington is our favourite!

Best coffee in Sydney? 

The best coffee would be Alimentari in Paddington.

Do you think you will stay in Paddington or look to move in the future?  

No, Paddington has always been a great location for us so why rock something that’s working? 

Best kept secret in Sydney? (regarding any topic)

My favourite place in the world is Glenmore Road, Paddington. It has some really beautiful designer boutiques, which you can find me in on most weekends. I love looking at the latest collections in Ellery and trying all the new products in Mecca and more often than not, will end up buying something! 

Do you have a favourite local café or restaurant that you regularly visit in Paddington?

I love going to the Bonython Café, it’s right around the corner from Valonz and is a great little spot for ‘café meetings’. It’s a quiet little nook that not too many people know about. South Dowling Sandwiches is my other favourite local. Their chicken salad is the best but you have to get there right on lunchtime if not a bit before as the queue sometimes goes around the block! 

As the Sydney weather becomes cooler, how will you be spending your weekends?

We love swimming and entertaining by our pool at home during summer but as it becomes cooler, my favourite thing to do is to go out and indulge in a traditional hot chocolate. When I’m working in Paddington, I’ll sometimes get a hot chocolate to go from Jackie’s, otherwise we love meeting up with friends for one in Brighton or Cronulla.