Suitcase Series: Ruth Robalino, Founder of Aede Wellness

This week we caught up with Ruth Robalino, the woman behind Aede Wellness, to find out what she never travels without, her packing tips, and what her most memorable trip has been so far…

Since her early childhood, Ruth Robalino was frequenting salons twice a week with her mother who loved to treat herself to a blowdry (we’re all for it). For as long as she can remember, Ruth was always styling friends’ and family members’ hair and by age 15, she’d landed herself a job working in-salon after school and on weekends.

By the time her school chapter came to a close, Ruth’s days consisted of working full time as a hair specialist. She’d probably politely decline the title, but it was clear there was a ‘hair hustler’ on the rise, with any spare time she had being used to study the field, and getting senior stylists to teach her all they could after hours. At just 24 years of age, she took the next huge leap in her career and opened her very own salon space.

This passion and drive for hair styling, hair health and education has been with Ruth since the very beginning and led to a journey of constantly finding new ways to look at and discuss all things hair-related. It was only a matter of time before she would launch her own brand, offering a fresh perspective on what it really takes to achieve dream hair.

Hair has quite simply always been my passion. I obviously love the art and creativity but the ability to transform a client’s hair and therefore transform the way they feel about themselves, well…there is just no feeling like it – Ruth Robalino

Ruth had seen some of her clients suffer from hair loss, thinning and shedding over the years and she wanted to be able to offer a solution to these issues. Her clients were coming to her for answers and there was nothing on the market that as a professional, she felt comfortable recommending.

She realised she needed a new solution that addressed hair health from the inside to deliver incredible results. This led to her creating a bespoke formulation that did not compromise on quality. Aéde supplements are designed to be a best-in-class supplement that hair specialists themselves would recommend

In this week’s Suitcase Series, equipped with Aede Hair Activist ($66) we take a sneak peek into Gabrielle’s travel psyche…

What’s been your most memorable trip, and why?

In 2011 my husband and I travelled to Cuba and Ecuador. Cuba was like nothing I have seen before, it was like stepping back into a different time. The culture and history were incredible, from the colour to the music and the ear-to-ear smiles of its people. My husband is Ecuadorian so for me, having the opportunity to travel to his home and meet his extended family was something I will never forget. I can’t wait to take my kids there someday soon.

Ruth Robalino — Luxury Hotel Photographer, Mexico, Caribbean – Hotel Esencia, Riviera Maya, Tulum – Los Angeles, USA-based

What’s your favourite ever hotel?

Hotel Esencia in Tulum, Mexico. It was originally the private home of an Italian duchess and has been transformed into the most gorgeous boutique hotel. It also has an incredible spa that overlooks the estate’s cenote. Excuse me while I transport myself there now.

Where or what is your escape?

My morning meditation. It’s usually dark and the rest of the house is still asleep. It is my time for me, where I can clear my head and set my intentions for the day ahead.

If you could go anywhere tomorrow, it would be…

Bali, I have been to multiple times and would travel there over and over again. It is one of those special places where I always feel at peace and manage to relax and reset.

What’s your idea of a luxury wellness holiday?

Somewhere picturesque and peaceful with healthy food, meditation and a fabulous spa.

My top bucket-list destination is…

Egypt, my father was born in Alexandria and left with his entire family at the age of 5. It is a dream of mine to travel there and explore that part of my heritage.

If you could sit next to anyone – dead or alive – on a long-haul flight, who would it be?

My Grandmother, she was my rock.

What is your jet-lag recovery tip?

Hydration, hydration and more hydration. Before, during and after your flight.

What is your suitcase stalwart?

I’m a little embarrassed to say this but I have had the same black Samsonite luggage for over 15 years now. They have served me well, have seen me through multiple travel adventures and still look brand new.

Aede Hair Activist

A daily super supplement designed to support natural, healthy hair growth, boost collagen production and reduce free radical damage. Made with a blend of potent vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants including riboflavin, biotin, silicon and zinc to aid longer, stronger, shinier strands.

RRP:$66.00/ one month supply

What is your number one packing tip?

If you like to fit in way more than you actually need like I do, roll, don’t fold. Packing cells are a must, I like to be organised and save myself the hassle of wondering where I put things when I reach my destination.