Eleanor Douglas-Meyers | 041lifestyle
She’s the epitome of elegance — commanding courtrooms, curating couture, and running beauty empires — but behind Sonja Tifloen’s polished businesswoman exterior is a quirky, girls’ girl who’s not afraid to laugh at herself. As Managing Director of BLC Attorneys, owner of a luxe salon and an innovative spa, and the creative force behind her own designer label, she’s also mom to a bustling household of boys. For this Mother’s Day, we peel back the layers and discover how she balances power and polish, spreadsheets and spa menus — all while staying true to her feminine flair.
“ I remind myself that my worth isn’t measured by how busy I am, but by how present I am“
Let’s start with you in your own words. How would you describe yourself, beyond the titles and businesses?
At my core, I’m a woman of deep purpose and passion. I’m someone who values grace under pressure, believes in the power of reinvention, and loves fiercely — whether it’s my family, my team, or my dreams. Titles come and go, but character, creativity, and kindness remain constant. I lead with heart, and I live with intention.
You manage a legal firm, a salon, a spa, and a fashion label. How do you juggle your different ventures without losing steam or clarity?
Structure and intuition. I’ve built strong systems and teams around me, but I also lean heavily into instinct. I know when to push and when to pause. Each business speaks to a different part of me — law to my logic, beauty to my creativity, and family to my soul. It’s not about doing it all perfectly, but being present and purposeful in each space.
What inspired you to branch out beyond law into beauty and design? And how do these creative outlets balance the more corporate side of your life?
Law sharpened my mind, but beauty and fashion feed my spirit. I’ve always believed women can be both powerful and polished — that intellect and elegance aren’t mutually exclusive. The beauty industry allows me to celebrate femininity, and my label is an extension of that expression. They ground me in joy and remind me of the importance of creating beauty, not just managing business.
You have a very distinct, feminine aesthetic. How do you bring that into boardrooms — and does it ever surprise people?
Absolutely — and unapologetically. I’ve learned that dressing in a way that reflects how I feel isn’t a weakness; it’s a form of self-respect. I walk into every room owning who I am, and I think it makes an impression. People sometimes expect seriousness to look a certain way — but elegance doesn’t dilute authority; it enhances it.
Your home life is filled with boys! What’s it like being the only woman in a house of testosterone? Any fun mom moments you cherish (or survive)?
It’s a vibrant, tech-fuelled world — full of gaming consoles, gadgets, memes, and laughter. I may not always understand the thrill of a new update or who’s trending on YouTube, but I love how their minds work and how they connect through tech. We have loud debates, deep chats, and lots of inside jokes. I also have four dogs who are very much part of the chaos — and comfort. It’s not always calm, but it’s full of life and love. And through it all, they know: Mom may love fashion and high heels, but she’s building a legacy — and they’re part of it.
Behind all the structure and success, do you get moments to simply pause? What does ‘smelling the roses’ look like for you?
Absolutely. I believe success without stillness is empty. For me, it’s a slow coffee in the morning, a walk through my garden with my dogs, or quiet time in my dressing room where I can simply exhale. I also find peace in unwinding with my boys, laughing over something silly, or sketching a design. Those small, intentional pauses — that’s where I find clarity and joy.
Self-care has become a buzzword, but what does true self-care mean in your life?
For me, self-care is about alignment. It’s asking myself daily: “Is this feeding me or depleting me?” It’s not always candles and spa days (though I do love those too). It’s setting boundaries, saying no with grace, choosing nourishing relationships, and giving myself permission to rest. It’s honouring my energy and protecting my peace.
People see the powerhouse, but what might they be surprised to find out about you?
That I love reality TV — the cheesier, the better! And that I’m not above laughing at myself, ever. I’m a girl’s girl through and through, with a soft heart and a silly streak. People are often surprised that behind the polished exterior is someone who genuinely finds joy in simple, silly, beautiful moments.
What keeps you grounded through the chaos? Is there a mantra or habit that helps you stay centred?
“Grace over grind.” I remind myself that my worth isn’t measured by how busy I am, but by how present I am. I journal, I pray, and I breathe deeply. I try to let go of perfection and embrace progress. My family, my faith, my four dogs, and a quiet inner knowing that I’m walking in purpose — those are my anchors.
What’s next for you? Are there any exciting projects, ideas, or dreams on the horizon?
Always! I’m exploring a lifestyle concept that merges fashion, beauty, and empowerment — a space for women to feel seen, celebrated, and supported. I’m also mentoring more intentionally, creating space for the next generation of women leaders. Growth doesn’t always mean more — sometimes it means deeper. I’m leaning into both.
And finally, what message would you love to share with other women, especially moms, this Mother’s Day?
You are more than the roles you carry. You are a whole woman — not just a mom, a partner, a professional. Honour all parts of you. You don’t have to shrink to fit anyone’s expectations. This Mother’s Day, I hope you remember that your softness is strength, your love is leadership, and your presence is powerful. Celebrate yourself — fully and unapologetically
In a world that often demands women choose between strength and softness, Sonja Tifloen reminds us that we can be both — and beautifully so. This Mother’s Day, she stands as a powerful reflection of what it means to lead with heart, live with purpose, and laugh often. Whether she’s in a boardroom, behind a salon chair, sketching a new design, or sharing a silly moment with her sons, she’s redefining success on her own terms — and inspiring other women to do the same.
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