12/06/2026
✨ INTRODUCING A FRESH NEW LOOK FOR FACES OF EXETER PHOENIX ✨
We're excited to share the first story in our redesigned Faces of Exeter Phoenix series, celebrating the people who make our community what it is.
FACES OF EXETER PHOENIX - ERYN
From working in the Cafe Bar to starting a career in barbering, Eryn's story is all about going after what you want.
We loved catching up with Eryn and hearing about her journey.
Read her story by swiping through ➡️
Or read below ⬇️
FACES OF EXETER PHOENIX - ERYN
WHAT BRINGS YOU TO EXETER PHOENIX?
I’ve come in to say hello to some old workmates. I used to work behind the bar here.
HOW DID YOU COME TO WORK BEHIND THE BAR?
I left college because I realised it wasn’t the right fit for me. The focus on written work, even in creative subjects, didn’t suit how I learn. I prefer practical, hands-on learning where I can build skills through experience.
I told my mum, and she said I’d need to start paying rent, so I got a job in a hotel for a couple of years. I didn’t really enjoy it.
I was playing drums in a band when I came to Exeter Phoenix for a Battle of the Bands. I remember thinking the place had such a good energy, really creative and open.
After the gig, I went up to the bar and asked Stacey if there were any jobs going.
She said, “Maybe.”
So I said, “I can do coffee, cocktails, pints, food, kitchen, pot wash. I just want full-time hours.”
Basically, I said I’d do anything.
Stacey took my email, and not long after I got my first shift.
I was so nervous at first. I didn’t really know where to stand behind the bar or what I was doing, but it quickly clicked. I ended up working here for about two years and really loved it from day one.
WHAT ARE YOU DOING NOW?
It took me a while to find my direction. I knew I didn’t want to go back to college or go to university. I wanted something practical, creative, and hands-on.
I thought about carpentry, welding, and plastering.
Then I started cutting my friends’ hair at home and realised I really enjoyed it. I did a few more, and it just felt right.
I started looking for barber apprenticeships, but none were available.
Then a friend of my brother told me about a barbers on the Quay looking for someone.
The issue was I thought I didn’t have the qualifications they wanted.
So I decided to go down anyway and try my luck.
I walked in and asked for an interview. The owner said they were fully booked, but I pushed a bit more and he asked me to come back the next day.
So I did.
I stayed focused, didn’t go on my phone, and brought a folder of photos of haircuts I’d done.
Eventually I got the interview. I told him I was passionate about short, p***y cuts, fashion, and photography.
At the end of the interview he said, “I like the look of you. You sound good. You’ve got the job.”
A week later I started my apprenticeship and it’s been going really well. I’m really enjoying it.
WHAT HAS EXETER PHOENIX MEANT TO YOU?
Working at Exeter Phoenix gave me the confidence to go after something I really wanted.
THANK YOU, ERYN, FOR SHARING YOUR STORY WITH US.
IT WAS GREAT TO CATCH UP AND WE REALLY ADMIRE YOUR GO GETTER ATTITUDE!
