Amanda Thomson is the founder of Thomson & Scott, a Champagne and prosecco brand that you might remember from our Valentine’s Day Self-Love Giveaway. Her inspiration for the brand, a line of sparkling wines that center around their no-sugar-added, vegan, and organic qualities, comes from the realisation that she was the first person thinking, “what’s going into my bottle?” From this simple question, she grew her brand. We caught up with her to discuss all things bubbly and balance.

Q: As an entrepreneur and a mother, you deal with a lot of people every day. How do you take time for yourself?

A: This is a real work in progress but for me it can be in the small things like taking a moment to breathe and enjoy a moment but honestly there’s nothing better than a power yoga or HIIT class to clear my head. I’m also, importantly, a real fan of harnessing the mind and recognising relativity so however tough my day may be, no one dies. It’s Champagne! I hold that thought.

Q: What is your best tip for staying balanced?

A: Remember the credit/debit rule and that there is no light without darkness. Oh and if in doubt, a glass of Champagne. Always.

Q: Apart from your own success in the industry, who else do you admire?

A: I certainly wouldn’t say I admire myself, I’m British - we are terribly self-deprecating. I admire each and every entrepreneur now I have started my own business from a blank sheet of paper. Succeeded, failed, rich, poor - every entrepreneur can look into each other’s eyes and find as easy commonality and indeed, empathy. It’s not easy. If it were, everyone would do it.

Q: Of course we have to ask: what should we look for in a fantastic wine?

A: Purity, elegance and simplicity, with a touch of lively expression. Like in the best people, no?

Q: When you’re visiting a new place, what is at the top of your to-do list?

A: A glass of local wine. Of course.

Q: Where’s your favourite place to travel to (for the best glass of wine, or otherwise!)

A: Tough one, so many. Can I have three for starters? A house on the beach in Cap Ferret near Bordeaux -- Simple chic heaven. Locanda Al Colle, Tuscany, one of the most beautiful places in the world, owned by a dear Italian friend and the first stockist of our Champagne. And I have to say Champagne. Of course. I had a truly memorable stay at Jacques Selosse’s place with my husband. I’ve only scratched the European surface there, don’t get me started on the rest of the world…