Cocktails With

Tammy Graham

Marketing Executive

Style Observer (SO): What’s your astrological sign?

Tammy Graham (TG): Sagittarius

SO: How would you describe Tammy Graham in a few sentences?

TG: I’m very family-oriented, I love quality time with friends, and I’m committed to my workouts and overall well-being. At Active Home Centre, I get to channel my creativity and help turn people’s ideas into beautiful spaces, which I genuinely enjoy. Staying ahead of design trends keeps me inspired, and I love being part of a team where vision and innovation matter.

SO: Hurricane Melissa has devastated much of our beloved country. What steps have you/your company personally undertaken to assist?

TG: Hurricane Melissa has deeply affected our country, and we knew we had to support our communities in a meaningful and heartfelt way. Montego Bay is where our other branch is, so it truly feels like a second home — and we wanted to support our Active family there as much as possible. We organised and handed out over 500 care packages directly at our Active Montego Bay branch for families in the area, where our team and customers were hit hardest. We also partnered with Chef Shea Stewart to provide hot meals, bringing a sense of comfort and home during a very difficult time — because nothing feels quite as comforting to Jamaicans as a classic lunch, especially on a Sunday.

SO: As we focus on the rebuilding exercise do, please, share five important hacks to be considered.

TG: 1. Start With What You Can Repair, Not Replace: Before buying new items, check what can be cleaned, sanded, repainted, patched. Small fixes to furniture, doors and cabinetry can go a long way without major spending.

2. Prioritise One Room at a Time: Instead of feeling overwhelmed, focus on restoring the kitchen, a bedroom or a central living area.

3. Use LED and Solar Lights: They last longer, use less energy and are great for power cuts in the future.

4. Choose Durable Finishes: If you’re replacing flooring, go for porcelain tiles. They are harder, denser and less porous. They absorb less water which prevents cracking, stains or lifting after floods. They also look great!

5. Use Multipurpose Pieces: For small homes recovering from damage, multipurpose furniture saves money and space.

• Ottomans with storage

• sofa beds

• dining benches

• nesting tables

• consoles that double as desk

SO: A customer comes in having lost an entire house, what advice would you offer as he/she sits in your design studio to start over?

TG: The first thing I’d do is acknowledge what they’ve been through. Losing a home is emotional and overwhelming, so before we talk about products or plans, I’d let them know they’re supported and not alone. This is a safe space to start again, one step at a time. From there, I’d help them simplify the process. At Active, we have everything in one place — tiles, furniture, lighting, fans, bath fixtures, kitchen essentials, even décor — so we can rebuild room by room without adding stress. I’d start by asking about the essentials they need right away: a comfortable bed, a functional bathroom, or a basic living space. Once we understand their priorities, we can create a phased plan that fits their budget and timeline. We can explore durable tile options, strong windows, quality exterior doors, affordable yet stylish furniture and lighting that brings warmth back into their space. At Active, we’ll guide you gently through every step, helping you create a space that feels like you again.

SO: Share with us a few of your own home comforts.

TG: My home comforts definitely revolve around creating a beautiful, calming space — soft textures, warm lighting, and a layout that feels open and intentional. I have a lot of windows because I love natural light and fresh air, especially in the mornings. My favourite way to start the day is in a cosy corner with a cup of coffee as the sunlight pours in. I’m also drawn to coastal blues and greens, so those accents run throughout my home to keep everything feeling serene.

SO: Driving from Active Home Centre Kingston to Active Home Centre MoBay l what are you listening to?

TG: On the drive from Active Kingston to our MoBay branch, I’m usually listening to podcasts — mostly health and fitness ones because I love learning new things. And if I’m not in a podcast mood, it’s definitely some Drake… because who doesn’t love Drake on a long drive?

SO: What’s your must-have travel essential?

TG: My must-have travel essential is definitely a protein bar — I don’t go anywhere without one. And of course, my AirPods, because I need a good show to keep me company on flights.

SO: Condo or town home?

TG: Town home, for sure. I love the extra space and the feeling of being able to step right outside.

SO: Were you able to furnish any building in the world, which would it be and why?

TG: I’d love to furnish a luxury boutique hotel somewhere on the coast — think: Capri, Santorini, or even right here in Jamaica. I’m drawn to spaces that blend elegance with comfort, and I love the idea of creating rooms that make people feel instantly relaxed and inspired.

SO: How would you describe your personal style?

TG: My personal style is casual, comfortable, and easy-going. At home, I’m usually in cosy sweats and an oversized T-shirt, and for dinners or outings, I love a relaxed dress or a cute set. Comfort is always my priority, but I still like looking put-together.

SO: A night in or out?

TG: Nowadays, definitely in!

SO: Mascara or lip gloss?

TG: Mascara.

SO: Which do you prefer? A formal evening out or popcorn and Netflix?

TG: Popcorn and Netflix!

SO: What are you drinking?

TG: Golden Mojito made with Appleton Estate Signature Rum & Fresh Lime.

SO: Which countries are on your 2026 travel itinerary?

TG: This is an easy one! I love to travel — it really teaches you so much. On my 2026 travel itinerary is Greece.

SO: Finally, what’s your personal philosophy?

TG: My philosophy is simple: Stay true to yourself, stay kind, and appreciate the little things. I believe in working with purpose, appreciating good friends, and creating a life that feels meaningful and fulfilling.

Marketing Executive Tammy Graham distributes care packages.

As part of its Hurricane Melissa relief efforts, Active Home Centre Montego Bay and Kingston team joined hands with Romeich Entertainment and Zimi Entertainment to support over 500 persons in the Montego Bay community. Active Home Centre Marketing Executive Tammy Graham is flanked by Active Home Centre Montego Bay Branch Manager Stephan Chin (left) and Romeich Entertainment CEO Romeich Major at the joint venture.