East Kent Lifestyle Issue 12 by Barley House

issue twelve

january/ february twenty-fourteen

Bradley Cooper The Sexiest Man on the Silver Screen?

east kent weddings

winter warmers

thirty pages of ideas for your big day

seasonal styles from designers at fenwicks

the wonders of whistler exploring the resort behind the snow

[title ]

Tetrad Classic Harris Tweed Collection – Luxurious use of Harris Tweed fabrics that can be complemented in naturally finished leathers. Bowmore grand sofa WAS £1,915 NOW £1,445

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Brittany Characterised by it’s soft elliptical lines, the Brittany range consists of dining, occasional and cabinet in a choice of sizes. Stylish bases finished with toughened scratch resistant frosted glass. Available in white or black Dining table WAS £1,835 NOW £1,469 Dining chair fabric back WAS £375 NOW £305

RRP £1,149 Save £350

Rome

Leather 3 seater standard sofa in cat 15. Available in other sizes with power or manual recliner actions. WAS £1,965

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NOW £1,475 Shetland Hand made to the highest standards. Vi-Spring beds exude quality. 150cm divan set WAS £10,000 NOW £7,500

Aesthetically beautiful flooring designed for busy lives. High performance yet comfortable surface underfoot. Prices from £35.50m2 2

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FURNITURE | BED | CURTAINS | FLOORING | ACCESSORIES3

[welcome ]

january/february twenty-fourteen

ISSUE twelve

ello, and welcome to the first edition of East Kent Lifestyle for 2014. Hopefully everyone had a prosperous Christmas and a great New Year.

The holiday season tends to be a prime time for young (or not so young) lovers to pop the big question, and with that in mind we have put together our annual “East Kent Weddings” special, from pages 72-100, where we look at the best venues, tips, attire, make-up and more, to tempt any blushing bride (or grooms) to be. Those looking to keep to their New Year’s resolution to get more active, why not try out our East Kent Walk through Chilham on pages 18-19, or our East Kent Cycle trail along the Royal Military Canal in Hythe, on pages 14-15. For those of you who are not so concerned with the consequence of calories, take a look at our review of Café Bee on page 42, a splendid new Tapas offering from the people behind the wonderful “The Minnis”. We review the charming renovation at The White Lion “Pub with Rooms” in beautiful Tenterden, and enjoy a luxurious night’s stay at one of London’s finest and most stylish hotels, the stunning Andaz Liverpool Street. With our usual news, events, health and beauty, shopping, and fashion pages, find some inspiration for the year ahead with you regular dose of East Kent Lifestyle. Here’s to a good 2014! Pete Nichols, Publishing Director

east kent lifestyle magazine

available at

[contents ]

54 andaz

hot honeymoon hotels

whAtâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s iNside...

food and drink 41 42 45 46

The Kitchen CafĂŠ Bee Richard Phillips Recipe Healthy Eating with Renee

home & garden 24 Hereson Place 26 Jackson Fencing 28 Papillon Interiors

health & beauty 56 83 92 98

Fella Male Grooming Tips Wedding Hair Have Fun Losing Weight Wedding Make-up

fashion

57 Fenwicks Fashion 76 Create a ring as unique as the love you share 78 Dresses To Die For 6

bradley cooper

[contents ]

fenwicks

regulars & features 10 12 14 18 31 35 37 70 75 84 84 85 89 91 95 96

East Kent News Fabulous Finds East Kent Cycle Trail East Kent Walks Bradley Cooper East Kent Business â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Riccarda Kane The Imagine Sessions What's Occurring Port Lympne Mansion & Gardens Abbots Barton Hotel The Burlington Hotel Canterbury Cathedral Lodge Weddings at Eastwell Manor St Edmunds Canterbury Wedding Photography Hot Honeymoon Hotels

the white lion

have fun losing weight

days out 16 30 39 54

Dungeness Details Quex Gardens The White Lion Andaz, Liverpool Street

education

69 St Lawrence College

travel

50 A weekend in Whistler without skiing 75 Starry Starry Nights 78 Headland Hotel

dresses to die for 7

Made to measure kitchen door replacement Transform your kitchen in one day

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Door style: Newport Colour: Vanilla

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Great choice . Excellent service . Competitively priced.

[publication information ]

psapublishing East Kent Lifestyle magazine published by PSA Publishing Barley House, Sopers Road, Cuffley, Herts EN6 4RY tel: 01707 878026 email: sales@psapublishing.co.uk www.psapublishing.co.uk

Publishing Director

Creative Director

Pete Nichols pete@psapublishing.co.uk

Stuart Bennett stuart@bainesdesign.co.uk

Sales Executive

Managing Director

Jo Costello sales@psapublishing.co.uk

Andrew Bennett andrew@bainesdesign.co.uk

Travel Editor

Distribution

Jaillan Yehia hello@savoirthere.com

www.fellahair.com

MEN HAVE 3 TYPES OF HAIRSTYLES:

PARTED, UN-PARTED & DEPARTED!

Sam Holliday Mary Jones

Contributors Jaillan Yehia, Amy McManus, Brad McManus, Pete Nichols, Rebecca Douglas, Jennifer Baker, Keeley Harrison, Lisa Hemingway, Gemma Dale, Bobby Gordon, Renee Maguire, Richard Phillips, Nerissa Blower, Nick Evans, Tony King, Louise Tomlin.

Contributing Photographers Jaillan Yehia, Gemma Dale, Jo Doran, Pete Nichols. For all advertising enquiries please contact sales on 01707 878 026

The publisher does not accept any responsibility for the content of advertisements or contributed editorial in this magazine. Opinions expressed editorially are not necessarily those of the editor or publisher and no responsibility is accepted for loss, damage or injury incurred as a result of opinions, advice or comment.

HOOK US UP / 01227 780382 19 The Borough Canterbury Kent CT1 2DR

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[news ]

east kent NEWS east kent NEWS east kent NEWS east kent NEWS east kent NEWS east ken

The Manor Restaurant at Eastwell Manor included in “The Times – 20 Most Romantic Restaurants in Britain” Mr Turrloo Parrett is delighted that The Manor Restaurant at Eastwell Manor has been voted 5th in “The Times – 20 Most Romantic Restaurants in Britain” published on 4th November 2013.

For reservations call the Reservations Department on 01233 213020 or email reservations@eastwellmanor.co.uk or visit www.eastwellmanor.co.uk.

The only Kentish restaurant to be included, The Manor Restaurant is in excellent company, beating other well-known establishments such as Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons (11th) and The Ritz (15th). Mr Parrett said “This is a great credit to the dedication and hard-work of the restaurant team.” Eastwell Manor not only houses The Manor Restaurant, but also acts as a first rate hotel and spa, boasts a state of the art 3,000 square feet gymnasium, 20 metre heated outdoor swimming pool, golf course, and numerous other bars and restaurants within the sprawling 3,000 acre estate, situated in Boughton Lees, just outside Ashford.

Stagecoach Founder

Buys Manston Airport For £1 Scottish entrepreneur Ann Gloag, founder of The Stagecoach Group, completed a buyout of Manston Airport from Infratil Ltd on November 29th for £1 through her company, Lothian Shelf Ltd "As the new owner of Manston Airport, I am ready to work on investigating opportunities for growth at Manston." said Gloag. “I have over 30 years experience in the transport industry and will use that expertise as best as I can to optimise both freight and passenger growth at Manston. “To help me in that challenge, I am delighted to have on board Alastair Welch. He will lead our work at the airport, working alongside Charles Buchanan and the wider Manston team as we scope the future strategy of the business. “Whilst this is a loss making airport, I hope that with the co-operation of our neighbours and the wider community 10

of Kent, the airport partners and staff, we can capitalise on the opportunities available to give Kent the best chance possible of having a successful and vibrant airport." Turnaround specialist, Alastair Welch, is leading Ann Gloag’s team at Manston Airport. He said: “Our focus will be on doing what we need to do to build a successful business and we are looking at all options to give us the best chance of achieving that. “For the airport to thrive and fulfil its potential, it is vital that we create an environment where new partners are attracted to do business at Manston. “We are already working hard exploring a number of opportunities and we greatly appreciate the positive support we have received from key stakeholders and staff so far. "In the meantime, the twice daily KLM flights connecting the people of Kent to worldwide destinations via Amsterdam continue to be very popular and the Manston team looks forward to welcoming even more passengers in the future."

nt NEWS east kent NEWS east kent NEWS east kent NEWS east kent NEWS east kent NEWS

£90,000

awarded for Sainsbury’s School Games Festival in Kent 2014’s Sainsbury’s School Games Festival in Kent is set to build on the huge success of previous years, thanks to £90,000 of National Lottery funding. The local organising committee for Kent - has been awarded the funding from Sport England to deliver the School Games festival next year. With the Kent School Games led and organised by KCC’s Sport and Physical Activity Service, the additional funding from Sport England will greatly enhance and bolster the hugely popular and successful School Games in Kent. The Kent School Games will be the culmination of year-round competitions within schools and between schools, with the most talented athletes progressing to compete across more than 30 sports including athletics, wheelchair basketball, hockey, volleyball and badminton. The 2014 County Sports Festivals will be bigger than ever before with an expected 150 festivals across the country, 175,000 students – including 17,000 students with a disability - and 25,000 volunteers. There are 46 Local Organising Committees (LOCs) across England which is responsible for organising and delivering the festivals. They are made up of representatives from local schools, County Sports Partnerships, young people, and national and local sports providers. They are supported by the Youth Sport Trust which has been commissioned by Sport England to develop and deliver elements of the School Games until 2015. John Steele, Chief Executive Officer at the Youth Sport Trust, said: “The Sainsbury’s School Games Festivals offer young people a fantastic opportunity to take part and compete across a range of sports against their peers. The funding for these festivals will help make the events an exciting and inspiring occasion for those taking part.”

[news ]

KENT MULTIPLE

SCLEROSIS THERAPY CENTRE HITS TARGET

Last month, a film was launched to give the Butterfly Appeal a final push to raise £150,000 before the end of 2013. The charity is celebrating reaching its target in record-time. Money from the public has been donated following the appeal. They have also had news that three trust funds have also agreed to support the building. Retired businessman, Frank Brake, has matched, pound for pound, all funds raised since February 2012. The charity has met its overall target of £1.3 millio pounds. Building work is now underway. The new Centre is in Canterbury and is the nearest service of its kind for people living across South and East Kent, including, in Ashford, Margate and Dover. Mary Daly, who has run 2 marathons for the charity, following her diagnosis with MS, said, ‘We've worked for so long and now we have the money we need for the building. It's really hard to get my head around it.' Therapies such as massage and hyperbaric oxygen therapy can help alleviate some of the symptoms associated with Multiple Sclerosis. Tony Meire, Chair of the charity, said, ‘We are bowled over by the response. Our heartfelt thanks go to everyone who has donated. Centre Members and Members of the public have been so generous, people have put on events and run marathons and Frank's generosity has made all the difference. The Kent MS Therapy Centre is an independent selfsupporting registered charity which was established in 1984 to support people with MS in a happy, caring, positive and supportive environment. The charity launched its ‘Butterfly Appeal' in 2012 so-called because the new building has four wings.

The School Games Level 3 festival in Kent will take place on Wednesday 25 June 2014. For further information visit www.KentSchoolGames.com 11

[fabulous finds ]

Finds



The Key to Your Heart

Give your loved one a 'key to your heart' this Valentine’s Day. This Retro Key Necklace from the Imperial War Museum Shop is reminiscent of those found in a wartime home during the Second World War. A romantic gesture from a bygone era! The nickel free Key is 6cm long with a chain length of 70cm.

es sp in

lent va

Price: £10 Available at IWMshop.org.uk

ia l ec



The Morpher Helmet I’ll bet a fair few of you or your children got a new bike for Christmas? Then the “Morpher” helmet (designed and developed by Jeff Woolf OBE, twice ‘British Inventor of the year’) has been created to help encourage helmet use by making it simpler and easier to always have one at hand. The lightweight bicycle helmet folds in half, and has already been the recipient of three international innovation and design awards. On sale from Spring 2014 Price TBC



Pebble Smartsticks Make sure you never miss an important call again with this stylish new innovation from Veho, the PEBBLE™ Smartstick. This emergency portable battery pack charger has adapters for all mobile devices without the need for mains power. Small and light enough to carry around in your bag, the PEBBLE™ Smartstick portable emergency charger will provide your mobile device with up to one additional charge. Price: £20 Available at www.sciencemuseumshop.co.uk

[fabulous finds ]



The Outback Battery Heated Socks Thermals just not cutting it this January? These winter warmers will keep your feet all cosy, that’s 39 degrees. With enough power to last for up to five hours these socks are perfect for outdoor activities, indoor or the cold office during the miserable months.



Montblanc Princesse Grace de Monaco Pétales de Rose Bracelet

Price: £19.95 Available at www.prezzybox.com

For those of you with a little cash to splash on your valentine, why not capture the heart of your princess with the Montblanc Princesse Grace de Monaco Pétales de Rose Bracelet? A modern classic, the Pétales de Rose motif, interpreted in white gold and diamonds, encapsulates the subtle, soignée sophistication that will forever be associated with Princess Grace. Price: £1,875 Available at www.montblanc.com



The Margarita R-Evolution Dry January? Pah! Lightweights! Start as you mean to go on in 2014, and add a little sophistication to your drinks cabinet. The Margarita R-Evolution is a kit that contains basically everything you need to make three different molecular margarita recipes. Create a large bubble full of flavour to serve on a spoon, make aromatic foam to place atop your cocktail, or create caviar pearly balls that burst with flavour. Move over Heston Blumenthal! Price: £30 Available at www.sciencemuseumshop.co.uk

[cycle trail ]

east kent cycle trail

RoYal MilitaRy Canal the

[cycle trail ]

" 

A20

M20

" 

Westhanger

Sandling

Lympne West Hythe

Saltwood

A261

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Hythe

Hy th ea nd D

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

Cycle Trail - On-road Cycle Trail - Traffic-free surfaced National Cycle Route Train Station

You’ll find a slice of history and rural life as you pedal along the banks of the Royal Military Canal. The 13 mile ride offers a peaceful view of a defensive monument and the range of wildlife, towns and castles which lie along it. At the start of your ride you have a difficult choice between the tranquil banks of the Royal Military Canal and terrific views from the sea wall. The small market town of Hythe rests on the coast and holds a rich history as a Cinque Port, one of five former military and trade ports which stretch from Sandwich in Kent to Hastings in Sussex. The seaside town is speckled with Georgian and Medieval buildings. This canal was built as a defence against invasion during the Napoleonic wars of 1793- 1815, but by the time the canal was ready as a line of defence, the threat of invasion had long since gone. It was never put to use as a line of defence but its value as a habitat for important wildlife means the 22 months’ of labour which built the canal were not in vain. Plants upheld as national rarities share the banks with patrolling dragonflies and the infamously noisy marsh frog. Take your time pedalling along this striking monument and you’ll discover

features along the banks which are almost as unique as the canal itself. St Leonard’s ossuary is a must see for lovers of the macabre; the bone house lies within Hythe’s Norman church and secretes a neatly stacked pile of human bones. If you favour a slightly less dramatic detour, the Romney Hythe and Dymchurch Railway provides a wonderful distraction from your ride. The one third size steam trains run along thirteen miles of track which spans from Hythe to Dungeness. If you fancy a tour across a striking landscape, you can even take your bike on the train. Between the deeply wooded hills of the old Saxon Shore cliff line and the open expanse of Romney Marsh, this route offers a peaceful tour of a dramatic landscape. Romney Marsh was historically favoured for its remoteness by the smugglers which once roamed this landscape. Your route now traces a path towards Lympne and one of the castles which once closely guarded this landscape.

Location: Hythe, CT21 4NT Distance: 13 miles (20.9 km) 4.9 miles (6.4km) without extension Time: 1 hour 30 minutes OS Explorer Map: 138 Terrain: Flat paths, with hard, fine surfaces Refreshments & facilities: there is a wide choice of pubs, cafés and restaurants in Hythe Parking: At the foot of Lympne Hill, West Hythe, or any of the car parks in Hythe town centre

Once again you have a difficult decision to make; divert from your canal side path at West Hythe and you’ll find quiet country lanes and dramatic views towards the medieval Lympne castle, but keeping to the banks of the canal will take you on a shorter off-road route back to Hythe. To find out about other cycle routes in Kent or for information on walking, riding and country parks in Kent, visit www.kent.gov.uk/explorekent. Follow @explorekent on Twitter.

[days out ]

Dungeness Details Inhospitable, desolate, wild, windswept: these words come up time and time again when describing Dungeness, and for those seeking a sense of the surreal, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no place quite like Kentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s southernmost tip, writes Jaillan Yehia.

[days out ] The clue to the place rests in the name: Dungeness derives from the Old Norse word nes meaning headland; and this isolated area offers the closest thing the British Isles has to the Wild West, while being the UK’s only recognised desert to boot. The pull of this place can be explained by its other-worldliness; a unique part of the country offering an escape from the rigid norms of British society and town-planning, Dungeness offers eerie and strange combinations: a huge nuclear power station in an area famous for its bird reserve; a vast shingle beach complete with two lighthouses being served by a pocket-sized coal-powered model railway; and an artistic community selling work from their studios in architecturally diverse man-made structures. This land of extremes sees one of the largest expanses of shingle on earth juxtaposed with the world’s smallest gauge public railway, the circa 1927 Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway, which carries you from the Romney Marsh to end-of-the-line Dungeness Lighthouse on lovingly preserved steam and diesel trains. And yet Dungeness is in many ways a quintessentially British place to while away a Sunday, an unforgiving location, a windy climate to blow the cobwebs away, and a selection of quirky and interesting nooks and crannies to keep you entertained on your day out.

"The town itself is simply a collection of buildings, sheds, and other outposts of life including an airstream and a rubber-clad house, all of which pepper this stark natural landscape." While one of the lighthouses, one of which is open to visitors, the most famous attraction here is undoubtedly Prospect Cottage, the home owned by the late artist and film maker Derek Jarman. The cottage is a striking timber building, painted black and yellow, with a John Donne poem The Sunne Rising displayed on one side; visitors can freely access the unwalled garden, which reflects and draws inspiration from the surrounding landscape; a simple shingle, driftwood, and metallic space.

Visitor Info: RSPB Dungeness www.rspb.org.uk/reserves/guide/d/dungeness The reserve is open daily except Christmas Day and Boxing Day from 9 am-9 pm (or sunset if earlier). The visitor centre is open from 10 am-5 pm (4 pm November - February). RSPB and Wildlife Explorer members get free entry and non-members pay £3, (concessions £2, under 16s £1, families of up to two adults and four children, £6.

Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch Railway www.rhdr.org.uk The stations at New Romney, Dungeness and Hythe are all on or near the A259 trunk road which gives direct access from the Kent & Sussex coast.

Nature trails A circular nature trail 3.2 km (2 miles) in length starts at the visitor centre. The track surface is largely hard-packed shingle with two stretches of short grass. The trail is generally suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs although there are occasional patches of more loose shingle. At the Hanson ARC site there are two tracks (both 380 m in length), one leading to a hide, one to a viewing screen. Both tracks are suitable for both wheelchairs and pushchairs. All hides and the viewing screen are wheelchair accessible.

Dungeness also holds some secrets from history - as the site of the first radio transmissions by Marconi who sent his maiden radio messages across the English Channel after conducting research in sheds which can still be seen on the Shingle. A similar revelation in the duties of Dungeness comes in the shape of its World War II role as the source of a pipeline under the Channel, supplying allied forces in France with fuel. The pipe was nicknamed PLUTO (PipeLine Under The Ocean) and pumped a million gallons a day at its peak. The secrets of present-day Dungeness are just as revealing; 90,000 cubic metres of shingle is moved by engineers each year in a bid to preserve the nuclear power stations from encroachment by the sea. But for most the nuclear power station itself provides just a backdrop to a leisurely mooch around the area in search of the art for which it is justly famous, and a visit to an artist’s studio is an inspiring aspect of any trip to Dungeness.

[days out ] Location: Chilham (TN25 5AW) Distance: 4.5 miles (7.4 km) Lakeside Loop – 1.1 miles (1.8km) Time: Allow 3 hours OS Explorer Map: 150 Terrain: Field paths and tracks Refreshments & facilities: Public houses and restaurants in Chilham Parking: Taylor’s Hill car park Public Transport For local bus and train services in Kent, contact Traveline tel: 0870 6082608, www.traveline.org.uk

Stride across the North Downs Way through the orchards, traditional villages and ancient woodland of the Stour Valley. Take in striking views across the landscape and the shrouded mystery of the Julieberrie Downs on this 4.5-mile circular trail. 18

Your walk begins at Chilham’s village square. Enclosed by 15th century timber-clad buildings, an ancient church and the magnificent Chilham Castle, the square is a glorious start to your walk. The imposing castle has overlooked the village since before the Domesday Book of 1086 and while it was once a symbol of Fulbert the Norman’s dominance over Chilham’s residents, today it is a striking sight over the village. Wander across the Square and turn left down Church Hill and you will soon be striding along the North Downs Way. Continue along the trail and before

long you will be at the top of the hill, encircled by views over the traditional farming landscape. Continue following the North Downs Way signs down Lower Lees Road and into Bowerland Lane.Your path will edge around orchards and fields and will soon lead you to Bowerland Farm. Reaching the main road, cross carefully and turn right before taking the footpath to the left, crossing through a garden and taking care as you go over the level crossing towards the great Chilham Lake. In the 1950s the lake was a gravel pit; later purchased by Mid Kent

[days out ]

ChilHAm east kent walks

Water, it was transformed into a lake stocked with a variety of fish, ranging from catfish and carp to trout and bream. From here you can choose to circle the lake or continue along Pickleden Lane and across the River Stour. Uphill climbs are soon rewarded with glorious views over the Stour Valley as you make your way along a section of the Stour Valley Way. Broadham Down is a habitat reclaimed by the Kent Wildlife Trust; its chalk grassland supports a range of valuable plants, moths, adders and badgers.

Continue along the byway and follow the footpath as it traces the edges of the fields towards the legendary Julliberrie’s Grave. This land is steeped in history and there are a number of thoughts regarding the derivation of the name. One of the most wellknown legends is that it was here that the Roman general Quintus Liberius Durus was killed in battle during Julius Caesar’s first attempt at invasion in 55 BC, forging the names Julius and Liberius. Retrace your steps to the crossroads and turn left to walk downhill with the River Stour below. The Chilham

Mill is another reminder of the area’s heritage and is regarded as one of the best preserved water mills in the South East of England. From the mill, you will soon be brought back over the level crossing and into Bagham Lane. Head back towards the beautiful village square and enjoy a warming drink in one of the local pubs or tea rooms. To find out about other cycle routes in Kent or for information on walking, horse riding and country parks in Kent, visit www.kent.gov.uk/explorekent. Follow @explorekent on Twitter. 19

[home and garden ]

[days out ]

ROMA

KITCHENS Som erse t Rd

St Ln

Ma ce Ln

Hig h St

El w ic k

FIRE STATION he yt H

Station Rd

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He nw oo d

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Unit 15, Heron Business Centre, Henwood, Ashford, Kent TN24 8DH Telephone 01233 645530 Kitchen showroom open 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday and 10am to 4pm Saturday

Visit our new and improved website now!

www.roma-interior

Drop by to see these displays and much more in our He 22

[home and garden ]

ROMA KITCHENS ASHFORD

rs.co.uk

endwood showroom

[home and garden ]

Hereson Place Coming soon to the picture postcard seaside town of Broadstairs is the first phase of a brand new development called Hereson Place. The show home is expected to launch in February, which will be open to buyers to view and discuss the range of properties available. To date we have received good levels of interest in the scheme with reservations already being taken off plan! The first release will see 25 detached homes come onto the market which will include 3, 4 and 5 bedrooms. Plans and brochures are available to view from the selling agents’ office: RPC New Homes (01622 691911). Hereson Place is within walking distance of the town centre with its array of amenities, is on a bus route and close to the station. The train station offers services to selected London terminals i.e London Victoria, Cannon Street, St. Pancras (high speed) as well as 24

providing local services. For those who drive the M2 provides the gateway to the remainder of Kent to include ports at Dover, Channel Tunnel at Ashford and ultimately the city. If schools are an area of importance to you and your family then there are a number to choose from. The closest schools to Hereson Place include White Cliffs Montessori Pre-School, Pierremont Pre-School, St. Mildred’s Primary Infants, St. Ethelbert’s Catholic Primary, Upton Junior School, Hilderstone College (16+) and Dane Court Grammar. In fact Hereson Place itself was the site of a former school.

Broadstairs is a cosmopolitan seaside town with its sandy blue flag beaches, promenade, cafes, and restaurants. Its lively social calendar includes food festival, folk week and Dickens festival. Parks, a museum, local independent cinema, leisure centres etc can also be enjoyed. The first phase at Hereson Place will be accessed via Merrivale Heights, which is off the popular Dumpton Park Drive and will comprise of solely private houses. Currently available is a selection of 3, 4 and 5 bedroom houses with prices starting from £249,995. Register your interest now, request a brochure, arrange viewing appointment (Plans/Show home) with RPC New Homes – 01622 691911 – www.rpcnewhomes.co.uk

eXciting neW HOMeS in BROADStAiRS - pHASe 1 nOW ReLeASeD

e n m O ho SO ow g Sh nin pe O

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hereson place, ramsgate road, Broadstairs, Kent ct10 1pJ

A stunning collection of new 3, 4 & 5 bedroom homes set within minutes of the centre of Broadstairs, a town offering great historic charm and beautiful beaches Prices from £249,995* (plot 6, The 3 bedroom Abbottsley with en-suite, and garage). House to sell? no problem... our ‘Assisted Move Scheme’ will help sell your existing property at absolutely nO cOSt to you. Ask for details. Register your interest now by contacting

01622 691911 www.rpcnewhomes.co.uk *Price correct at time of going to press.

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[home and garden ]

Jacksons Fencing

news, topical treats and more... Jacksons Venetian panels are semi-solid, so offer less wind resistance and have an attractive modern look

Regular readers of my monthly pages will no doubt have realised that I often mention the weather, so I’m sorry to be harking on about it again, but it has been exceptional. Even before the Christmas break there were disruptions caused by floods and gales, and throughout January the country has continued to be battered and soaked. My heart goes out to those of you who suffered flooding and damage to your properties, especially those who after mopping up and trying to get back to some semblance of normality were hit by another onslaught of evil weather, causing even more damage. Some of you may well have woken up to find that your fencing had blown down, which isn’t all that surprising when you consider some of the gales were estimated as being upwards of 80 mph. It was a scene of garden devastation in the area of Kent where I live. We helped a few neighbours out by moving panels that had not stood up

Not much of this fence is left standing after the gales 26

to the battering of the wind, and in some instances fencing that ended up as just fragments of brittle wood. Well if this has happened to you, you may well ask why has my fence blown down and someone else’s in the next garden remains intact? Here are a few points to bear in mind when thinking of a replacement fence: Rotten posts - A common reason for a fence falling is due to rotten posts. Untreated timber will rot very quickly when it is in contact with the ground and will therefore no longer be able to stabilise the line of fencing. All Jacksons fencing posts undergo the unique Jakcure timber treatment process, which offers a 25-year guarantee against rotting and wood boring pests. Jakcure pressure treatment drives preservative deep into the carefully selected timber (not all species of tree represent a timber conducive to effective treatment), which results in solid and strong posts that last for many years. Proper foundations – No matter how good your posts are, they won’t stay up unless you have them dug in to the correct depth, and with plenty of concrete to secure them in the holes.Always ensure that the post holes have straight sides. For a 1.8m fence (6ft) fence each

Why has my fence blown down?

Win a Jacksons garden gate set... Enter the free prize draw and be in with a chance to win one of our garden gate sets.We have 15 different styles and various sizes - the gate sets come complete with posts and everything you need to hang the gate.They make having a new gate beautifully simple and straightforward, and they are all guaranteed for 25 years too! Simply log on to your local page, address below and follow the easy instructions on how to enter. The draw closes 28.2.14.

www.jacksons-fencing.co.uk/ashfordlocal post requires 60kg of concrete to provide a secure base. Posts should be set in the ground at a minimum of 600 mm (2ft) – and deeper for higher fences. Fit for purpose design – Look for solidity in the fence panel, does it look strong and feel heavy? If it feels flimsy and lightweight, then that’s what it is! In areas that suffer excessive winds, like coastal situations, it may be best to consider a semi-solid panel that offers less wind resistance, allowing air to pass through it, rather than hit it full on. Fixings that last - These are as important as all the other points mentioned here.There is no point in buying a wellbuilt panel and following the rules on post strength and correct installation if you skimp on cheap fixings, go for

non-rusting, heavily galvanized fixings to hold everything firmly in place. Avoid the cowboys! – A final point to remember, a fence is only as good as its installation. Please check your installer is reputable and if they are, they will be able to supply references of good work they’ve carried out previously, or ask friends to recommend decent installers. These points are all covered in more detail if you go to your local page, as is our special offer to help out people who need to replace their fence, Jacksons are offering free delivery on all garden fencing and gates throughout February – full details at: www.jacksons-fencing.co.uk/ ashfordlocal louise@jacksons-fencing.co.uk

[feature ]

Jacksons guarantees all its products for 25 years. So when you see this badge, you are guaranteed a seamless installation by our team of specialists, top quality, great British design, and most of all, peace of mind. We call it our badge of quality... 0800 41 43 43

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Jacksons Fencing Head Office 586 Stowting Common Ashford Kent TN25 6BN

Tel 01233 750 393 27

[home and garden ]

Kent's Exclusive Vitra Dealer. · Inspirational furniture pieces. · Design led kitchenware. · Educational and creative childrens toys. · Contemporary homeware. Visit us opposite The Turner Contemporary Art Gallery 40 Fort Hill, Margate Old Town, Kent. CT9 1HD T · 01843 220088 www.papilloninteriors.co.uk

[home and garden ]

StoRiNg OR By Tony King – Papillon Interiors, Margate

BoRiNg?

Big Home, Little Home, Garage or Attic.

Our choice of home is often driven by such boring subjects as storage room or facilities.The human condition is one of wanting to keep and retain items (often long after we need them) and we therefore look for neat little places to hide our worldly possessions.This often means the items are put into plastic boxes and stored away in a dark hole somewhere. Clearly, some items are designed not to be on show, whereas others positively crave attention. So why not either put these items on show, or a least give them a more interesting resting place?

Fixed Storage. The Scandinavians know a thing or two about design, and some of their open plan systems such as the Quadrant and Simplex can be custom made to fit your space. Such systems not only give you fantastic looking furniture, but also allow you to display some of your more interesting artifacts. The fact that you can take such systems to ceiling ensures maximum use of precious floor space. Such systems are perfect for studies, living rooms or indeed room dividers. The String System (another Scandi classic) is also making a massive comeback into more design led homes due to its ability to adapt to your needs.

Freestanding Storage The beauty of freestanding storage (apart from ease to move to new locations) is that it gives you a chance to introduce more design or colour into your home. Rather than have your storage be a shy, retiring wall flower - you can make it stand out. One of our favourite pieces (and now resident in our shop) is the Vitra Eames Bookcase/Storage Unit. Its mix of colour and materials begs attention and its contemporary style is still bang on trend, despite being conceived in the 1950’s – 60’s. Of course there are many other interesting more statement lead pieces such as the Robot from Casamania, or no.216 from Abstracta.

Wall mounted Storage need not be big, and sometimes the smallest items can have a big impact. Wall storage tends to be smaller due to the weight of suspending from plasterboard walls, so we advocate small design pieces such as the Eames Hang It All or the New Vitra Corniche as both interesting but practical ways of using wall space. Adding storage into a modern home should be an opportunity to enhance your interior rather than just ‘cover up’ some space or finding a dark corner for your old CD/Tape collections. Embracing the change and being daring with your design can be fun ! 29

[days out ]

Capturing the essence of yesteryear at

QueX Gardens Quex Park is delighted to announce the appointment of our new Head Gardener, Sue Harris who has joined us from Walmer Castle Gardens in Deal. Sue will be working together with an assistant gardener and an invaluable group of volunteers to bring the gardens back up to the standard they were at the turn of the Century. “Having joined the team this October I have been trying to understand development of the gardens surrounding the Mansion and with the help of Hazel our archivist I am forming a timeline of projects and events which have influenced its development over the past 200 years. We know from an article written in 1902 what plant species were growing in the glasshouses and that the garden was considered ‘old’ then for its trees & earlier features. Part of my job at Quex is to secure funding for a large conservation project to secure the future of the walled garden with its large run of vine and orchid houses, as well as stove houses, cold frames and a cucumber pit. With the walled garden I really want to tell its full story. Two of the four walls show up on early plans predating the current Mansion. From 1806 we have expenses being paid for a Gardener and in 1815 materials for the building of an early glasshouse. 30

The Gardens peak came in the in the Edwardian era but declined in the 1920s after Head Gardener James Cornford retired. It was then let out to a market garden producing tomatoes & cut flowers for Covent Garden market into the early 1960s. Some of the equipment on site is from this later period and I believe it too has historical importance worthy of preservation. The walled garden in many ways reflects the social & economic powers which influenced the decline & re-use of many such historic walled gardens across the country. Quex has the advantage of many structures & ephemera from its past intact. It is impossible to restore the garden to the full splendour which it was at the start if the 20th century but I feel we can retain the essence of grandeur the Mansion once had in its pleasure grounds as well as the walled garden. We have made a start on enhancing the woodland planting and have relocated many plants from other areas as we clear ground to make way for a more formal touch. I am especially interested in the sunken fountain garden (pic) as it has changed so much and we don’t know who designed it or when it was first built.

We aim to restore the paths and rework the beds so that the planting can be more in keeping to the style they would have been. A wider search for funding may bring us a restored pond with a section of the earlier Italianate feature re-created. Watch this space…”. Sue will be launching the season with Springtime walk in Quex Gardens on Friday 4 April 2014 from1pm-3pm, to include coffee and cake in Mama Feelgoods Boutique café. £15 (garden admission only) TO BOOK a place please call the Museum 01843 842168. Spaces are limited. Payment is required at the time of booking. The Powell-Cotton Museum and Quex Gardens are open from 14 January 2014 reduced admission price of £5pp Admission Prices (Museum, House and Gardens) from 1 April 2014 Adults £8.00 Concessions/Children £6.00 Families £24 (2 Adults & 3 Children) Gardens only £3.50, Concessions £2.50 01843 842168 | www.quexmuseum.org Quex Park, Birchington, CT7 0BH

[cover story ]

Actor Bradley Cooper attends the "American Hustle" premiere at the Ziegfeld Theatre on December 8, 2013

BrAdLey Cooper FROM fraternity jerk to Hollywood A-Lister, Bradley Cooper has proven to the film industry he is more than a pretty face. Cooper, 39 who once dreamed of becoming a basketball player, propelled himself into the acting stratosphere through sheer determination, a whopping loan, and menial jobs including carrying suitcases of celebrities in a New York Hotel.

Born in Philadelphia, USA, Cooper the son of Italian-American Gloria Campano and Irish-American Charles Cooper grew up in nearby suburbs with parents and his sister Holly. With a Catholic background and a father who worked in the stock market,

Cooper took a strong work ethic with him throughout his childhood and left his hometown to attend Georgetown University. A studious young man, Cooper left university fluent in French and a BA with Honours in English.

[cover story ]

Bradley Cooper and Heather Graham arriving for 'The Hangover Part III' European Premiere, London Cooper got his first ever film role After university, Cooper took a brave step into the unknown and moved in David Wain’s Wet Hot American to New York with dreams to make it Summer released in 2001. The satirical big as a movie star. A risky decision story about a Jewish for some, the aspiring summer camp in 1980s Despite being a actor took a $70,000 America was a financial loan out to fund his now high-profile flop but gained a cult studies at Actors Drama following for its wacky, actor, there is a School Studio MFA tongue in cheek style. lot about Bradley programme at New In the same year Cooper York's Pace University. Cooper the got a supporting role public does not To keep himself afloat in JJ Abram’s successful in the city, Cooper TV series, Alias. Playing know about... took the modest role alongside Jennifer Garner, of a doorman at the elite Morgan’s Cooper took on the character of Will Hotel. An often gruelling job, Cooper Tippin, close friend and journalist who assisted some of the richest and most aids Garner’s character to help clamp powerful clientele in the city. He even down a criminal organization. remembers carrying Leonardo Di The highly successful series seemed Caprio's luggage up to his room with like the big break the actor had hoped the superstar in tow. for, but as the series progressed, Cooper One of aspiring actor’s first television appeared less and less. Eventually appearances was as a carefree New Cooper asked the Cloverfield Yorker and romantic interest to Sarah director to write his character out Jessica Parker in an episode of Sex and of the show completely. the City, but it took him a few years to Cooper landed a few guest appearances familiarise himself in the acting world and gain a more substantial role. on hit US series Nip/Tuck but suffered 32

a few poor choices – a role in a quickly cancelled sitcom, the lead in little known gore-fest Midnight Meat Train and love interest of Sandra Bullock in romantic sitcom All About Steve, in which the pair received a Gold Raspberry as worst screen couple. Shortly after quitting Alias the actor tore his Achilles muscle after a game of basketball. He took almost a year out of acting and considered leaving the notoriously fickle acting world for good, but in 2005 landed one of the most pivotal roles of his career - Sack Lodge in Wedding Crashers. Unlike the incisive journalist Will Tippin in Alias, Cooper had the chance to play a 'villain' role, opposing the dumb yet loveable protagonists played by Owen Wilson and Vince Vaughn. Aggressive, preppy, arrogant and dangerously brutish, Cooper’s character Sack is a force to be reckoned with and will stop at nothing to get what he wants. Although Sack’s fierce determination led to failure in the film, for Cooper it was the beginning of movie stardom.

[cover story ] In 2009 Cooper progressed this ‘jock’ typecast role as a more amiable character as Phil Wenneck in The Hangover and became an inspiration to party-loving young men who have fun no matter the cost. This ‘dude’ comedy which tells the tale of three friends on a disaster-filled stag do in Las Vegas, won a Golden Globe for Best Motion Picture and was the tenth highestgrossing movie in the world in 2009.

Bradley Cooper at the Palm Springs Film Festival Gala at Palm Springs Convention Center on January 4, 2014

Cooper was on a winning streak and appeared in The Hangover Part II and III, returning to play the haphazard and eternal “jock” in the popular movie series. Now a movie A-Lister, the actor could cherry pick film roles and in 2010 starred as the suave, sweet-talking Lt. Templeton "Face" Peck in the reboot of the A-Team. Proving his worth as a leading man, Cooper had yet another hit on his hands in the sci-fi thriller, Limitless which was released in 2011. Unlike many of his previous comedic efforts, the actor had a challenge on his hands to portray a darker, drug fuelled character who increasingly loses control with the more super-human power he gains. The actor who gained fame and fortune for playing arrogant, frat boy characters suddenly threw aside this created persona after his work in Limitless and began to land more serious and complex roles. In 2012 the star gained an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor in The Silver Linings Playbook for the portrayal of Patrick "Pat" Solitano, Jr., a man with bipolar disorder who is released from a psychiatric hospital who returns to his hometown to live with his parents and reconnect with his estranged wife. The actor has sought further success with the release of sexy stylish film, American Hustle which was released in December last year. Set in the late 1970s, Cooper plays an FBI agent who forces con artists Amy Adams and Christian Bale to create a trap for corrupt politicians. A huge success within its first month, American Hustle hit the top spot at the UK Box Office, recorded £3.5m in box office takings and was nominated for seven Golden

Globes. Not missing out on the instant blockbuster, Cooper has received critical acclaim for his portrayal of the bold and brash detective. Cooper, who has previously romanced celebrities of the silver screen including Zoe Saldana (Star Trek), Olivia Wilde (House, Tron: Legacy) and Renee Zellweger (Bridget Jones’ Diary) was married to Crash actress Jennifer Esposito in 2006 but their marriage was short lived with the couple filing for divorce in 2007. Last February Cooper began dating model Suki Waterhouse, 18 years his junior and the pair made their first official media outing at the premiere of American Hustle. Despite now being a high-profile actor, there is a lot about Bradley Cooper

the public does not know about his personal life, which he keeps tightly under wraps. He admitted he was once a heavy drink and drug user but refuses to give the specifics except to indicate it was a low point of his career. The actor is now completely tee total and has seen an improvement in movie roles as the years of sobriety progressed. Thanks to the recent number of films which showcase his true talent and charisma on screen, Cooper has certainly got a busy year ahead of him. He will appear in three more movies, Serena, Guardians of the Galaxy and an untitled Cameron Crowe project. Oscar nominated and with a handful of promising films under his belt, 2014 is set to be the year the new golden boy of Tinseltown can do no wrong. 33

[feature ]

[east kent business ]

Riccarda KaNe Birchington Orthodontic Practice Riccarda Kane graduated from University College Hospital Dental School London in 1989, obtaining her postgraduate qualification at Guy’s and the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh in 1997. Riccarda is on the General Dental Council specialist list for orthodontics and is a member of the British Orthodontic Society and British Lingual Orthodontic Society. I met with Riccarda at the home she shares with her musician/producer husband and two children in Goodnestone. Riccarda, how long have you been at Birchington Orthodontic Practice? We opened BOP in 1999, so I’m now in my 15th year here, although I have been practising in Thanet since I qualified as a special orthodontist in 1997. You first graduated from Dental school in 1989, what were you doing between then and qualifying as a special orthodontist in 1997? I've worked at UCH, Great Ormond Street Hospital, and Kent and Canterbury Hospital for many years. I also spent time in General Dental Practice. It was during my time at Canterbury that I decided to make East Kent my home.Working in the hospitals was exciting and a bit scary as the first on call for the MaxilloFacial Department. I would often get called to the A&E department during the day and night to assess fractured facial bones, suture large facial cuts, and admit patients with severe dental infections. In the daytime there were clinics dealing with diseases, injuries and defects in the head, neck, face, jaws and the hard and soft tissues of the mouth. I also took out lots of wisdom teeth! Dealing with mouth cancer patients, the aftermath of traffic accidents and injuries every day was tough and challenging but very rewarding work.

At Guy's Hospital, I then studied full-time for three years to qualify as a Specialist Orthodontist with a Membership in Orthodontics, and gained a Masters Degree in Science. It sounds like a lot of work to get where you are - was being a Specialist Orthodontist always your ambition? Absolutely, I wanted to become an Orthodontist since I was 12 years old! It started when I got braces of my own and became absolutely fascinated with them! I got in trouble for constantly taking them apart and wanting to rebuild them. It sounds funny but I just knew it’s what I wanted to be. And you’re still in love with the profession? 100%. There are so many rewards in my job. It has the advantage of being both creative and scientific, as well as affecting people on a deeply personal level. There is nothing more fulfilling than helping a client to gain confidence in their smile. To witness a teenager with increasing self-esteem through work I’ve done is the best reward you can ever get. In my day, braces had something of a stigma, so you feel that has lessened of late? Definitely, through a combination of factors. Firstly, the advances in design,

technology and aesthetics mean that more people are willing to wear them. Secondly, one can’t underestimate the effect that people like Tom Cruise publicly wearing braces had on the industry. When a Hollywood icon endorses wearing braces, the stigma is quick to go! I guess the “mouthful of metal” isn’t quite how things are these days? Not at all. Although of course there are still metal braces, by and large they are much less intrusive and can be brightened up with coloured elastics. There are also many less visible options. For fixed braces the aesthetic, ceramic brackets and tooth-coloured wires are fantastic.You can opt for 'lingual' braces, which sit behind the teeth, so they are completely out of view. I also offer Invisalign© treatment with almost unnoticeable, clear plastic aligners. With all of these options for less visible braces, some clients say their friends don't even know they have been having treatment! Please telephone 01843 844600 or email birchingtonorthodontics1@btconnect.com if you have any questions or would like to self-refer for a private consultation.

Margate Theatres Spring 2014 Box Office: 01843 292795

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Treasure Island

Little Howard

& the Magic Pencil of Life & Death

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Mark Thomas

100 Acts of Minor Dissent

Wed 12th Feb T

The Mythological Laboratory of Love

GEEK 2014

The Table

Ed Byrne

D L O S

Sat 15th Feb

Fri 14th Feb

The Police Panto

Sat 8th Feb

Tues 28th Jan

T U O

Sat 15th Feb

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20th-22nd Feb Chris Ramsey

21st-23rd Feb W

Tues 25th Feb

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Thurs 27th Feb

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[feature ]

The

ImagiNe Sessions By Bradley McManus

Every week it seems that a new music event pops up and promises something special. After several events, The Imagine Sessions in Deal is getting a decent reputation for itself. Seemingly being organised by people who just want to have fun rather than pull a profit, who knew? The ‘session’ is run once a month in Costa Coffee of all places. Although this seems a little bizarre at first it makes sense because it’s a relaxed environment for people to catch up, build a community and enjoy local musicians. The name comes from the organisers who are a community of young adults called "Imagine" who love music, creativity, and believe true life is found in religion. When I spoke to Tom he was keen to stress that people who attend do not have to share their beliefs, you are more than welcome if you just like guitars and coffee! The session was built about a common interest, Tom goes on: “A year and a half ago Imagine sat down and thought about what most of us loved. Music & creativity seemed to come up frequently. With this, we planned and came up with a

low-key music night where we could build friendships with other people, whilst listening to local musicians”

Somehow Tom & the team manage to put the whole event on with no charge at all. He said that they always wanted to have the event free of charge as the whole basis is about getting together. There are a great number of people playing not limited to an open mic style night. Up and coming metal band Crashgate’s front man, Craig Sheridan continues to support his local community and has performed at the evening, there have been flashbacks to bands such as City Lightz getting together in part and playing some stuff together. One time they even decided the weather was far too nice to be wasted indoors so they moved the time a little and had a BBQ gig outside. It is all very natural and works with what people want.

If you want to get involved then Tom welcomes you to get in touch with the page mentioned below, send a message or write on the page and you’ll get a reply from one of the organisers. Huge thanks must go to everyone: Tom Keenan (Session Overview & past house band organiser), Jack Bowden (Current house band organiser & musicians), Esther Thorpe (Creative team co-ordinator), Anna Davidson, Ben Thorpe, Bruce Watson, Sam Healy, and Joel Dickinson. At Imagine everyone helps out with different things and there are countless names of people involved with making the Imagine Sessions happen. The evening includes musicians, comedians, poets and anything you may associate with them. Each month is different and you will always be able to find the information you need on their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/imaginesessions 37

[days out ]

The WHiteTenterden Lion By Peter Nichols

Situated in the heart of Tenterden, a charming and picturesque little town, known as “The Jewel of the Weald” is The White Lion Pub & Rooms. Always a firm favourite for locals to relax with a drink, to meet friends, and to grab a bite to eat, The White Lion has also offered rooms for those visiting the area for many a year. From that perspective, nothing has changed, as all of these functions are still performed admirably by The White Lion. However, a recent overhaul has seen some splendid renovations to this historic building which has seen everything from the food and drinks to the fourteen bedrooms undergo something of a transformation. Having heard news of the re-opening of the White Lion, I took my partner for a night’s stay for her birthday, incorporating an evening meal and breakfast. We took a generously proportioned family room with huge comfy bed, luxurious en-suite bathroom with complimentary White Company toiletries. The room also included a large sofa bed, a large ornate coffee table, the obligatory large screen TV, and on the

desk/dressing table a complimentary goodie basket, replete with freshly baked cookies and an assortment of hot and cold beverages. We looked around some of the other rooms, and each one is individually styled, with unique features, vibrant colours, beautiful fabrics and contemporary interiors, although the odd uneven floorboard, or exposed beam gives the room give a subtle yet welcome nod to the character inherent within this 16th century former coaching inn. The pub downstairs is equally well presented, and the renovation has managed to update the interior without removing the charm of a quintessential English village pub. Trade certainly hasn’t been hampered either, as the bar was busy from midday to midnight, with a real mixture of customers. Lads out a night out, middle aged couple sharing bottle of red, a family of diners enjoying a pre-meal aperitif, and singletons

perusing a newspaper over a cappuccino. The restaurant, also on the ground floor is a wonderful addition, with a huge wood fired oven on display, serving up amazing home cooked pizzas, sizzling steaks, and fresh fish. After dinner we settled into the pub for the evening, joining forces with a group of local lads on their friends stag night – why bother with a long weekend paintballing in Estonia when there’s merriment, good company and good beer available in Tenterden? A little worse for wear we retired to bed, almost missing breakfast as a result of our over indulgence in the local hospitality. A fantastic fry-up with wonderful local ingredients, a strong coffee, and a couple of pints of OJ and lemonade were more than enough to reboot our hard drives, and we headed home with fond memories of a great night in a splendid Kentish hostelry. 39

[days out ]

Make it Memorable. Make it The Minnis.

Overlooking one of the finest beaches on the North Kent Coast, The Minnis Bar and Restaurant is a relaxed, stylish restaurant that offers a truly outstanding a la carte dining experience. With spectacular sunsets and panoramic views across Minnis Bay, diners can expect fine, innovative, English cuisine in a comfortable and welcoming environment.

The Minnis Bar & Restaurant Minnis Bay, Birchington

01843 841844

www.theminnis.co.uk

[food and drink ]

The KitcheN town of Margate, has been gradually evolving and taking shape. After many trials and lots of fun the programme for 2014 with all its wonderful helpers is coming soon.

2014 is set to be an exciting and busy year at The Kitchen in Margate’s Old Town. Since opening at the end of the summer last year The Kitchen, a new addition to The Cupcake Cafe’s business, tucked away in the old

A varied menu of interesting, fun and informative sessions will start at the end January to tempt and inspire you. For beginners to the experienced, the Spring season will kick off working with enthusiastic friends from local small businesses. The Kitchen will delight you whatever your age and ability, inspiring you to explore your creative side and make you want to come back again. A friendly atmosphere sets the scene for an enjoyable, morning or afternoon out for anyone. Making and

tasting, getting tops tips and secrets from our passionate chefs/bakers/ butchers and more..... Baking Bread, Cupcakes, designing your own special birthday cake, decorating skills and Fondant Modelling, Chocolate Truffle session, Indian Cookery, Sausage Making with the Jolly Butcher, cocktails and canapés, Parent & Child Baking, Private bookings and parties, it’s all available. To discuss or find out more visit us at The Kitchen (next door to the Cupcake cafe) Margate old town or visit their Facebook page and website – www.thecupcake.biz Call 01843 231300 Email enquiries@thecupcake.biz 41

CAfé Bee [food and drink ]

By Peter Nichols

The latest culinary venture from Jason Freedman, Chef Patron of The Minnis Restaurant in Minnis Bay comes in the form of “Café Bee”, a small, intimate café just half a mile up the road from his sprawling beachfront enterprise. functions are as different as, well….day The Café itself has been in existence a and night, with the one constant being number of years, catering to locals in need of a decent cappuccino, a hearty the highly attentive, enthusiastic, and knowledgeable staff. breakfast, or a lunchtime Traditional dishes lasagne. Since Freedman Shortly before took ownership of the on the menu Freedman took over venue this past summer, Café Bee, they had include Spanish however, Café Bee has omelette, whitebait, started opening on a taken on a dual identity. Friday and Saturday evening as an “ale By day, the Café performs Patatas Bravas, its Café duties - serving garlic prawns, and house”, serving a few choice beers for breakfasts, afternoon teas, meatballs among regular customers. filling lunches, Sunday roasts, French pastries and others. When the new owners decided to put on four tapas dishes to freshly ground coffees. But on Friday accompany the drinks, the demand and Saturday nights (and by the time started to grow. With the growth in you read this, due to popular demand, demand there was a growth in the Thursday evenings will have been added to the roster), Café Bee becomes menu. Now, half a year or so on, the “ale house” has become a thriving Tapas a delightful Tapas restaurant, serving restaurant, where it is advisable to book regular Spanish favourites alongside a selection of ever changing specials. in advance to guarantee a table. The contrast between the day and night 42

I descended on Café Bee early on a

Friday evening in late December. I chose as early a sitting as I could (6pm) as I came replete with my partner and our two children (aged 3 and 8), fearing a food fight, or the high pitched moans of a bored child may well disturb other diners (previous family outings to restaurants have not necessarily been as successful as I may have hoped). The first thing I have to say, however, is that this is the first time I have ever (and I mean ever) heard 8 year old Jack so enthusiastic about eating out,“This is definitely the best place we’ve ever been to, I really like this”. High praise indeed… As much as anything, I think the fact that he could pick and choose what went on his plate was a major factor here. I guess that is part of the charm of Tapas in general, the sharing, comparing, experimenting, and building your own meal on your own terms. I’ve enjoyed Tapas plenty of times before, but never

[food and drink ] pepper relish and olives.

as a family – and it was by far the most fun we’ve all had eating together, a proper family experience. The menu has been devised by Minnis Chef Kevin Faux alongside Café Bee Chef, Danny Megson, formerly of The Goods Shed in Canterbury. Traditional dishes on the menu include Spanish omelette, whitebait, Patatas Bravas, garlic prawns, and meatballs among others. Main menu dishes were very reasonably priced at £10 for three dishes, meaning that a whole table full of food could be purchased for considerably less per head than you’d pay for a main course at most any restaurant in the area. The specials board almost doubled the fayre on offer, each dish priced individually, and included lamb cutlet with rosemary butter and ratatouille, garlic and herb risotto with smoked applewood cheddar, and home cured venison salami with pickled cucumber and tomato and

We chose a selection from both menus, with the chilli chicken with garlic and cream going down a storm with Jack, my partner loved the lamb cutlet special, and my personal favourite were the extra garlicky, garlic prawns. I have to confess that we weren’t quite sure our three year old daughter’s taste buds would have been overly appreciative of the delicate herbs and spices involved in many of the dishes, so we were happily provided with sausage and chips with kiddie cutlery for her! Mind you, she surprised us all by munching on a couple of crispy whitebait and a little of the patatas bravas. I have to say a few words about our serving staff, manager Claire Newton, ably assisted by her sister Hannah. Nothing was too much trouble, and their friendly, knowledgeable and industrious efforts were very much appreciated.You could tell they had a natural rapport with their customers. Combine that can-do attitude with some great food and a lovely venue, then you know you’re on to a winner.

[food and drink ]

Richard Phillips With an early restaurant career starting off at London's famous Savoy Hotel, going on to work alongside the likes of the Roux Brothers at Le Gavroche and then becoming Head Chef for Marco Pierre White at The Criterion, Mirabelle and Les Saveurs, it's no wonder Richard Phillips had his own Michelin starred restaurant by the age of 29. Now a highly successful restaurateur in his own right, Richard had excellent grounding to prepare him for creating his own restaurant, having come from two years with the Schrager Hotel Group, putting together and directing teams in both the Sanderson Hotel and St Martin's Lane, the first hotels owned by this group outside United States.

RubeNs AppLe Tart Tatin With

Spiced Winter Fruit & Kentish Cobnut Ice Cream By Richard Phillips Ingredients For the pastry (Serves 4)  320g plain flour  225g cold butter  110g icing sugar  3 egg yolks For the filling  6 Rubens apples, peeled, cored and cut into halves (turn the edges down)  100g caster sugar  100g butter  80g mince pie mincemeat  2 x star anise  1 x vanilla pod To serve Kentish Cobnut Ice Cream

Method 1. First, make the pastry. In a food processor, mix the flour, butter and icing sugar just until they resemble breadcrumbs. Add the egg yolks. Using the pulse button, mix until it comes together to form a dough.

6. R oll the pastry approx. 1cm thick and cut out a circle the same diameter as the pan, use a plate as a guide.

2. Remove the dough from the mixing bowl and divide into two pieces.Wrap in cling film and put in the fridge to chill for at least an hour, preferably overnight

8. P eirce a few small holes in the top to let the steam escape while cooking

3. Slice the butter 2mm thick and line the bottom of a thick bottom pan (6-8” in diameter), sprinkle the sugar evenly over the top. 4. Add the star anise, split vanilla pod (seeds only) and then the mincemeat.

7. P ut the pastry lid on the top of the tart, and tuck in the sides

9. H eat the tart until the sugar and butter start to caramelise and turns a golden brown.Then bake in the oven for 1015mins at 200c until the puff pastry is golden brown 10. When ready turn out tart tatin onto a serving dish and finish with a spoon of cobnut ice cream

5. Lay the halved apples around the pan core side facing up, 45

[food and drink ]

ChiA Health Eating With Renee

Seeds

the new superfood! By Renee Maguire

Renee Maguire is a chef, raw nutrition coach, food writer and motivational healthy eating speaker. Through discovering the benefit of her own health improvements she has dedicated her work to helping others find a balance between the foods they love to eat and the foods their body needs. Renee writes for a variety of newspapers, magazines and blogs, and tours the country delivering inspirational motivational talks and food workshops to find out more visit www.rawchifood.com or email renee@rawchifood.com photography by jo doran

It’s hard to keep up, each month there seems to be a new superfood on the block, goji berries and spirulina are so last year! This month we are all about my new favourite, Chia Seeds. Chia seeds are part of the mint family, grown in South America and totally easy to add to your diet.These tiny little seeds can be popped in to drinks, sprinkled over salads, made into puddings and the health benefits are endless. They are a fabulous aid to anyone looking for weight loss, the seeds expand in your stomach and allow you to feel fuller for longer, they are also know to block calories from other foods absorbing in the body, which can

curb cravings for the foods that cause the weight gain in the first place. They are the richest plant based source of Omega 3 fatty acid (more than salmon); they help reduce inflammation in the body, symptoms commonly associated with heart disease and arthritis. In my work I am often meeting people with type 2 diabetes and I encourage foods such as chia seeds to help control blood sugar levels, the chia seeds, slow down the process of turning

carbohydrates to sugar thus assisting with regulating blood sugar levels. Chia seeds keep our bodies hydrated and offer a slow releasing energy, which for me, means I can get on with a busy day, without worrying about that mid-day dip, where I used to find myself staring into the fridge, wondering what to eat. My favourite start to my day is my new recipe the chia seed chocolate pudding.

Chia Seed Puddings This is such a fabulous breakfast, the chia are so versatile you can have hot or cold, so depending on the time of year, I enjoy either way.

Mix the ground chia seeds, cacao, agave syrup and nut milk in a bowl and pop in the fridge for a few hours to make a gel.

Serves 1

Whisk the mixture once or twice during the standing time to prevent the seeds clumping together.

 1 to 2 tablespoons of chia seeds  I cup of milk, (I use almond milk)  2 tbsp. cacao powder H imalayan sea salt to taste  ¼ cup of agave syrup  1 small banana 46

Either serve cold with chopped banana and cacao nibs on top or during winter months, heat gently in a pan, not to boiling and serve. Use either ground chia seeds or whole seeds. I even sometimes make it the night before and pop in a container in the fridge

[cover story ]

[travel ]

A Weekend In

WhistLer Without Skiing…

More than just one of the world's most famous ski resorts, Whistler offers year-round holiday action, with summer seeing visitors descend for biking and golfing, hunting and fishing, and a permanent range of activities from mountain-top zip lining and outdoor spas to indoor ice bars. But the real surprise is just how much they can pack into this Olympic resort even for not-so-sporty types. Here’s how to enjoy the highlights of Whistler without even setting foot on a pair of skis… This mountainous part of British Columbia a couple of hours’ drive from

the city of Vancouver was given the moniker Whistler as a nod to the shrill noise made by the very vocal marmots found in the area. But Whistler’s ties with the UK go back to the 1860’s when it was surveyed by British Naval officers who

originally named it London Mountain. These days the Brits who are most vocal about Whistler are committed skiers, yet even if you’re not a snow sport aficionado Whistler makes a great holiday destination. Here’s our mini guide to weekending in Whistler… 51

[travel ]

Where To Eat - Bearfoot Bistro There's a montage scene in the movie What Happens In Vegas showing Cameron Diaz and Ashton Kutcher having a completely wild and crazy night out – most aptly demonstrated at the moment Diaz dramatically sabers a champagne bottle with a giant blade. She looks pretty sexy doing it, but then she is Cameron Diaz. I may not have reached Cameron’s level of cool when I was taken to the incredibly well-stocked wine cellar of The Bearfoot Bistro,Whistler' most exclusive restaurant, but I was presented with a knife and a fine bottle of bubbly selected from the 20,000-strong selection. Here, under the expert tuition of the restaurant manager I was led through the relatively easy steps which lead to slamming the end off a champers bottle and looking like you know what on earth you're doing.

I learned that the history of sabering champagne bottles began in Napoleonic times when superstition stated that if the bottle broke off cleanly it was a good omen – and when to my surprise my own attempt at slicing the neck off the bottle comes good, it certainly bodes well for the rest of the evening. Because as well as fine wine and champagne The Bearfoot Bistro boasts more alcoholic indulgence in the form of the Belvedere Ice Room, a walk-in bar which sees you donning protective parkas to keep you cosy while you throw back shots of $100 vodka in temperatures of minus 30, making it the coldest ice room in the world. And still on the ice theme there’s liquid nitrogen ice cream for dessert in the main restaurant, made tableside to the accompanying oohs and aahs of your fellow diners.

Visit: www.bearfootbistro.com

Or try Sushi Village For serious sushi connoisseurs an evening at Sushi Village is an absolute must when visiting Whistler.This large, atmospheric traditional-style Japanese restaurant with sunken-seating has a reputation for the best sushi in the area, and the hardest part of your evening – other than getting a reservation - is choosing from the extensive sushi menu. The spicy adgedashi tofu is such a highlight that we order another portion as soon as we taste the first and the house special rolls are almost impossible to choose between, though I plump for the Rainbow Roll; prawn tempura rolled with a soya bean sheet then wrapped with the chef’s choice of seven types of sliced ﬁsh.Take my advice and wash it all down with Sushi Village’s signature sake and fruit margaritas. Visit: www.sushivillage.com

Where To Get Your Caffeine Fix – Café Fix Café Fix is gem of an independent café and deli serving quality Parallel 49 coffee and first-rate baked goods and snacks including home-made butter tarts, a sort of Canadian answer to pecan pie that I can only imagine will have you hooked for life. Everything edible on the appealing menu is freshly made on site, from soups and salads to sandwiches, pastries and ice creams – and the team even grow their own herbs. Plus there are plenty of gluten-free options, and they sell home-made dog treats. Café Fix also offers a free shuttle service to collect you from nearby Whistler village - then return you once you’ve had your fill of goodies. Visit: www.nitalakelodge.com 52

[travel ]

Where To Chill Out - Scandinave Spa Forget all the preconceptions you have about spas, because Scandinave, an alfresco Nordic-inspired hydrotherapy haven nestled in the spruce and cedar-clad mountains just outside Whistler village, really is in a category of its own. Yes a soak in these thermal pools is perfect after skiing, hiking and other outdoor activities as a way to release lactic acid but you don’t need to have exerted yourself in advance to enjoy the benefits of hot and cold relaxation in the fresh mountain air. Whether you prefer the eucalyptus steam room, Finnish dry sauna or the hot baths of this three acre oasis of calm, you should

always finish with a dip in the cold pool to refresh and energise yourself before a final bout of relaxation in the hammocks or solarium. Just one word of warning – the entire spa site operates on a policy of silence to keep the air of relaxation untainted by chattering. I had to shush myself at least three times before I became accustomed to the rule, but realised it creates a deeper level of relaxation for you, and your partner will probably be thanking them too. Visit: www.scandinavewhistler.com

Superfly Ziplines There’s more than one way to get down these mountains - once you’ve surveyed the scenery via the gondola, it may be time to tackle a slightly more adventurous mode of downhill transportation.

How To Get Up The Mountain - Peak 2 Peak Gondola Get to the peaks of Whistler and Blackcomb - and back again - with minimum effort by taking Whistler’s Peak 2 Peak Gondola.This is a real engineering masterpiece, boasting the world records for both the longest free span between ropeway towers - 1.88 miles - and the highest point above the ground - 436 metres or 1,430 feet. The 360 degree views from the standard red gondolas are breath-taking at any time of year and if you’re lucky you can jump on the single glass-bottomed gondola and check out the views beneath your feet as you ascend.

Like most girls I spend a lot of time worrying about what I’m going to wear and this was especially true on the morning I headed to Cougar Mountain for a day’s zip lining on the highest and longest lines in Canada. It turned out I had nothing to worry about because SuperFly ziplines provide all-weather gear and while there’s no way you can look chic in these outfits, it doesn’t matter a jot and neither does the weather because flying through the air at up to 100km an hour over distances of a kilometre at a time while enjoying the endless landscapes is about as much fun as you can have with your clothes on. Visit: www.superflyziplines.com

Where To Stay – For Traditional Elegance - The Fairmont Chateau This is Whistler's landmark luxury hotel, a cosy, plush and inviting home from home right at the base of Blackcomb Mountain. As you’d expect from a Fairmont property all your needs are catered for with a selection of eateries serving everything from buffet breakfasts to afternoon tea via steak and fondue. There’s plenty of activities here to keep you busy from a full service health club with indoor and outdoor pools and the in-house Vida Spa to an 18-hole golf course – and the concierge is on hand to help you with any other local activities you may fancy while you’re in the resort. Visit: www.fairmont.com/whistler

Visit: www.whistler.com/gondola

For Contemporary Cool - Nita Lake Lodge This upscale property has a beautiful lakeside setting and chic and minimalist design, each equipped with their own mini kitchen, which are all about stripped wood and natural materials reflecting the lake and forest views from every one of the 77 rooms. The lodge offers free bikes, kayaks, canoes and paddle boards for guests and there’s also an on-site tennis court, yoga studio and outdoor pool.The concept is one of an art hotel there’s art everywhere from the rooms to the restaurant and lounges and the hotel hosts exhibitions by local B.C. artists. Visit: www. nitalakelodge.com

[days out ]

ANdaz LIVERPOOL STREET

I recently received an invitation for an overnight stay for the family to review one of London’s hippest five star boutique hotels, Andaz Liverpool Street. Five star boutique hotel you say? One of the hippest in London did I hear? In my rush to get there I almost forgot the family… The first things you notice upon arrival at the Andaz is its proximity to Liverpool Street station (it couldn’t be any closer) so as well as being just ten minutes by tube to the heart of the West End, it’s also within walking distance of the achingly fashionable enclaves of Shoreditch, Hoxton, Brick Land, and Old Street. The second thing you notice is the sheer size of the building. Formerly the home of the Great Eastern Hotel, the Victorian façade fades away as you are greeted warmly by a host of waiting, well, hosts, to check you in on their iPads in the stylishly modern 54

atrium, with its designer sofas, displays of modern art and tasteful neon lighting. There was one other, quite unusual yet rather charming greeting waiting for us upon our arrival. As our stay was immediately prior to Christmas, we got to enjoy the fantastic installation “Andaz Goes Ape”, which is a festive collaboration with iconic Old Spitalfields Market, Ravensbourne College and local artist, Bobby Patmore. The installation paid homage to the magic that London’s famous Christmas windows bring to the capital each year…with an East London twist!

The hotel’s front window had been lit up by a giant golden ‘Santa’ gorilla. Upon entering the hotel, we marvelled at the rotating gold ‘Barrel of Monkeys’ which cascaded down the lobby’s rotunda with mistletoe in their grasp. The piece was designed by Bobby Patmore and Ravensbourne College using 3D printing technology. The theme actually extended to the menus as special themed treats including mini banana bread loaves, banana chips, monkey nuts and mulled wine were available, as well as two new monkey themed cocktails, “Monkey Business”,

[days out ] a blend of Cruzan Rum, Crème de Banane, cranberry juice, apple juice and elderflower cordial & “Maker’s Monkey”, a mixture of Maker’s Mark, Drambuie, Banana liqueur and dark chocolate liqueur. As we were slightly early, we were sat at a nearby table, offered complimentary drinks and snacks, and given a temporary room to relax in while our suite was being prepared. The service at the Andaz really is second to none. The Andaz is a huge, sprawling, ‘ultramodern-meets-traditional’ affair, with 267 spacious (an extreme rarity for a hotel so slap bang in the heart of the city) and comfortable rooms, splendid restaurants, a superb basement health centre, a champagne bar, a pub, and some truly astounding rooms and features. None are more astounding than the ‘Grecian Temple’, a Masonic Lodge built in a neo classical style in 1912, which had been walled off, and remained untouched and, in fact, complete forgotten about until a refurbishment in the 1990’s revealed a wood-panelled

antechamber and, on the other side of a studded double door, the vast temple. Described as “a pure jewel of luxury, and probably one of the most grandiose Masonic temples in London” the opulent room includes an organ, hand-carved mahogany chairs, bronze candelabras on claw feet, and no less than 12 different types of marble used in the floor, columns, and walls, the ceiling a magnificent blue and gold dome. The room is not generally open to the public but can be reserved for functions. Another nice touch was the “Upper Gallery Deck” – a tranquil mezzanine floor with large sofas and chairs, low tables, mood lighting, and bonsai trees. An oasis of calm in one of the world’s busiest cities. The rooms are all stylish and comfortable, in shades of black and grey with the occasional splash of colour. There are huge beds, designer furniture (Eames chairs, Jacobsen lamps), lovely deep baths and powerful showers. A particularly nice touch is the well-stocked mini-bar, from which all non-alcoholic drinks and snacks are

complimentary, as are local calls and Wi-Fi. A small detail perhaps, but one which makes the guest feel that bit more appreciated and welcome. Our suite also had a wonderful Nespresso machine, two large LCD TV’s (one for the living area, one in the huge bedroom), dining table, sofa and a stylish workstation/ dressing table. After a great night’s sleep, we took breakfast in the “1901” restaurant, set in what was once the Great Eastern Hotel’s original ballroom. Breakfast was a buffet affair with wonderful organic produce and with every conceivable cereal, fruit, pastry, cured meat, cheese, yoghurt, fresh juice, and cooked breakfast ingredient you could possibly imagine. One night truly isn’t enough to do justice to the Andaz, as we could only sample a fraction of what this wonderful hotel has to offer so I’d advise any curious travellers to check it out for themselves – trust me, it won’t disappoint. So, well rested, and fit to burst, we made our way to the West End for some last minute Christmas shopping before heading home.

Restaurant hours Sunday – Tuesday: 8am – 9.30pm last orders Wednesday – Saturday: 8am – 10pm last orders

Bar hours EVERYDAY: 8.00am – till late

Tel 01843 585008 website www.milesbarramsgate.com contact sally@milesbarramsgate.com mailto:mick@milesbarramsgate.com

[health and beauty ]

male

GRoomiNg Tips By Bobby Gordon of Fella

Fella's ultimate streamlined grooming routine. We at Fella recommend that every man should have an ultimate streamlined grooming routine consisting of 4/5 products as part of a daily routine. Here are our recommendations. Face wash

Styling product

The key role of face wash is to remove sweat, dirt, grime and other daily pollutants without causing dryness or irritation. Fella recommends Men-U healthy facial wash contains tea tree oil, witch hazel & aloe Vera.

Your hairstyle is one of the most significant things about you & it goes a long way to defining your look. Along with a great cut a professional styling product is what will hold your style together. Fella recommends American Crew Fibre. Ideal for short to medium length hair with a textured matte finish. Shave cream

If you wet shave then a professional shave cream will make the difference between an average & an awesome shave. Fella recommends Men-U shave cream. Includes tea tree oil that helps protect from spots & shaving rash. Moisturiser

This should be the focal point of your skincare routine. Moisturiser helps protect, energise, smooth & refine your skin. Fella recommends Men-U facial moisturiser lift a fantastic aftershave balm and moisturiser combined.

Electric Razor

For those who prefer not to wet shave, your choice of electric razors will also play an important role in your grooming routine. Fella recommends the Wahl super taper professional mains operated hair clipper.

Fella is the destination for sharp haircuts. Founded in 2009 by Bobby Gordon, a 15 year veteran of some of Sohoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hottest hair joints. Fella is located in the heart of Canterbury, and brings a unique boutique feel to the barber shop experience like no other in the area. With no appointment necessary & late night openings you can kick back & listen to some cool beats whilst one of the expert stylists take care of you. Fella has a highly trained & skilled team who pride themselves on grooming for the modern man 56

[fashion ]

WinteR

Warmers

All taken from a selection of designers at Fenwicks, Canterbury

BARBOUR Draycott Quilted Jacket ÂŁ149 57

[fashion ]

BARBOUR Ariel Polar Quilt £149

BARBOUR Girl's Dressage Quilted Jacket £79.95 58

[fashion ]

BARBOUR Boy's Alderley Quilted Jacket £79.95 59

[fashion ] BARBOUR Boy's Ariel Polarquilt Jacket £99.95

[food and drink ] BARBOUR Girl's Printed Summer Liddesdale Quilted Jacket - £79.95

BARBOUR Girl's Vintage Quilted Jacket £99.95

[fashion ]

BARBOUR Grayson Quilted Jacket £199

[fashion ] BARBOUR Matlock Waxed Jacket £269

BARBOUR Tourer International Polarquilt Jacket £179

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[food and drink ]

Kent Kent College College

[ food and drink ]

Canterbury Canterbury

An Anoutstanding outstandingschool schoolfor forboys boysand andgirls girlsaged aged3 3- -1818

We Wecan canhelp helpwith withthe thewhole wholejourney journey from from33to to18! 18! Come Comeand andsee seeus, us,every everyday dayisisopen openday day Senior SeniorSchool School01227 01227763231 763231 Junior JuniorSchool School01227 01227762436 762436 65 www.kentcollege.com www.kentcollege.com

Download Downloadthe theKent KentCollege CollegeApp App 65 Available Availablefrom fromthe theApp AppStore Store

[education ]

We have more courses, more venues, more choices.

Have you heard? The secretâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s out...

From Jewellery Making to Genealogy thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a new experience waiting for you. Enrol today and start your adventure.

For more information visit www.kentadulteducation.co.uk one of our local Kent Adult Education Centres or call 0845 606 5606

kent adult education

Kent Adult Education is part of Community Learning and Skills

Bringing learning to life

[food and drink ]

An exceptional school experience with small class sizes and inspiring teachers

Come and visit us Saturday 8th February

Thursday 6th March

Step into the World of Roald Dahl activity morning for ages 5 - 10

Pre-Prep & Junior School Open Morning for ages 3 - 13

Individual visits can be arranged by appointment 67 An independent, co-educational day and boarding school | www.stedmunds.org.uk | 01227 475601

Co-educational, day & boarding school for ages 3-18 years in South-East England

Saturday 1 February: 7+ Academic Scholarship Morning for pupils currently in Y2, Y3, Y4 or Y5

Friday 7 February:

Nursery & Junior School Open Day

Small classes offering close individual attention Challenging learning skills & enrichment programmes Extensive range of sports and extra-curricular activities Exceptional facilities set in spacious grounds Extended day and flexi-boarding available

For further information please contact: Mrs Lindsey Harris Junior School Registrar T: 01843 572912 E: lah@slcuk.com www.slcuk.com

College Road Ramsgate Kent CT11 7AE

[food and drink ]

10 things you may not know about St Lawrence College! 1. The school’s recently built 500-seat Theatre was opened by former pupil and actor, Alexander Siddig. Siddig (known as ‘Sid’) is best known for his role as Dr Julian Bashir in the series ‘Star Trek: Deep Space Nine’. 2. In 1968 a dozen girls from St Stephen’s College were admitted to the Sixth Form, but the Junior School only opened its doors to girls in 1983. They now make up over 43% of the school population and the new senior girls’ boarding house, which opened in September 2012 for Years 9-13, is completely full.

courts, fitness room, dance studio and large sports hall. 5. A Victorian tunnel runs under College Road connecting the two parts of the Junior School, with the Nursery up to Year 2 on one side and Year 3 to 6 on the other. That’s why you never see Junior School children crossing the busy College Road!

3. The grounds cover 45 acres and the school has been described as a ‘calm oasis’ in the middle of an urban area. The imposing tower of the main school building provides wonderful views over Ramsgate – you can even see the sea!

6. Every Saturday three pupils currently attend the Guildhall School of Music & Drama, one pupil attends the Royal Academy of Music, and one the Royal College of Music. The school enjoyed national success in Art and Design Technology with 2nd place in the 2013 Turner Page Art competition and the Bloor Homes competition. The current Head of School won Kent Young Enterprise Speaker 2013. All amazing achievements for a small school!

4. The purpose-built sports centre was opened in 2009 by ex-England Rugby Captain and Team Manager, Martin Johnson CBE. The first-class facility includes a climbing wall, two squash

7. St Lawrence College Junior School was the only school in East Kent to be included amongst the UK’s top 100 independent prep schools according to the most recent Sunday Times list.

8. The school prides itself on expert sports coaching at all levels and has pupils competing at County level for Rugby, Cricket, Hockey and Swimming. It has four current or ex-international sportsmen on its coaching staff. 9. The Jennings author, Antony Buckeridge, lived and taught at St Lawrence College Junior School for five years after the Second World War. The school provided a rich source of inspiration for his novels. 10. The school has just celebrated its 50 years of running the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme. For half a century the College has taken, on average, 25 pupils each year on Gold and Silver expeditions to Perthshire. Why not discover what else St Lawrence College has to offer? Contact Alison Hall, Registrar, on 01843 572931 or email ah@slcuk.com. www.slcuk.com

[what's occuring ]

January & February

occurring Saturday 25th January Handel’s Messiah @ Canterbury Cathedral An inspiring concert by the Canterbury Choral Society in Canterbury Cathedral with London Handel Orchestra. Handel’s Messiah has a fair claim to be regarded as the best-known and loved piece of choral music in the English speaking world. Since 1742 this setting of texts from the King James Bible has attracted huge audiences – enjoy it in one of the UK’s most historic and venerable settings. Tickets from £12 Call: 01227 762862 or visit the website www.canterburycathedral.org

Tuesday 28th January Trevor Noah, The Racist @ Theatre Royal, Margate Fresh from a record-breaking season of shows at London’s Soho Theatre and a critically acclaimed total sell-out season at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, South African comedian, Trevor Noah is proud to present his critically acclaimed show, The Racist, on a ground-breaking tour of the UK. His sharp wit, intelligent commentary, unmistakable charm and clinical delivery have established him as an extremely popular performer with undoubted world-class potential. Show Time: 7.30pm Tickets: £15, call 01843 292795 or visit www.eticketing. co.uk/margatewintergardens

Friday 31st January & Friday 7th March Cooking Demonstrations with Mark Sargeant @Rocksaly, Folkestone Food lovers are invited to join celebrity chef Mark Sargeant for cooking demonstrations at Rocksalt Folkestone on 31st January and 7th March.

Tuesday 21st January

Jason Manford, First World Problems @ Leas Cliff Hall, Folkestone Everybody’s favourite northern comedian, Jason Manford, has announced a brand new tour for 2013. The show promises to feature a wealth of comedy anecdotes, comic misunderstandings and audience banter delivered with Jason’s likeable charm and teasingly intelligent wit. Show Starts at 8pm Tickets from £27.40 from www.atgtickets.com or call the box office on 01303 228600 Starting at 9.30am with tea, coffee and pastries in the scenic upstairs bar, this day is sure to delight foodies as Mark reveals some tricks of the trade, whilst creating sumptuous dishes. Mark will demonstrate how to cook three dishes in these relaxed and informal sessions, which guests can later enjoy over a leisurely lunch in the award winning restaurant. Price £100 per person: Includes morning pastries, pre-lunch champagne and canapes as well as a three course meal To book your place call the restaurant on 01303 212070.w

Wednesday 5th February Brendan Cole, License to Thrill @ Leas Cliff Hall, Folkestone Following on from his debut theatre tour Live and Unjudged, Strictly Come Dancing’s Brendan Cole is once again set to dazzle audiences across the UK with his current show, Licence to Thrill. Join him and his cast of 20 musicians and dancers as they take you on a journey of music and dance in this spectacular night of theatre entertainment. Show Time: 7.30pm Tickets £28.90 - £36.40 www.atgtickets.com or call 01303 228600

Friday 21st – Sunday 23rd February GEEK 2014 @ Winter Gardens, Margate GEEK is a festival of Play and Games. GEEK launched in February 2012 and is held annually in the Winter Gardens, Margate, Kent. GEEK is a family event. There will be two halls of games to play as well as workshops, talks, presentations and demonstrations. There will be

[what's occuring ] hundreds of video games to play on original consoles; they trace the development of video games from the 1980’s right up to new releases. Special areas will include the Indie Zone, Tournament Zone and Game Lounges. Activities include a Cosplay Masquerade, Tournament Play, Card games, Board games as well as Art and Craft activities 10am – 6pm Friday & Sunday 10am – 6pm & 7pm – 11pm Saturday Price varies on age/number of days attending. For more details and tickets call 01843 292795

Sunday 23rd Feburary Wedding Fair @ Eastwell Manor, Ashford Kent's most prestigious Wedding Fayre at Eastwell Manor on Sunday, 23th February 2014 from 10.00am until 4.00pm. You’ll find everything you need for the perfect wedding, including fashion shows during the day along with professional and expert advice on all aspects of wedding arrangements. Drinks and refreshments served throughout the day & all brides that register on the day will be entered into a raffle to win prizes from a range of exhibitors. Free Admission – 10am – 4pm

Tuesday 25th February The Reduced Shakespeare Company -The Bible The Complete Word of God (abridged) @ The Gulbenkian, Canterbury It’s apocalypse now as the three cultural guerrillas set their reductive sights on the good book. Yes, it’s an affectionate, irreverent roller coaster ride from fig leaves to final judgment as the bad boys of abridgement tackle the great theological questions: Did Adam and Eve have navels? Did Moses really look like Charlton Heston? And why isn’t the word “phonetic” spelt the way it sounds? Whether you are Catholic or Protestant, Muslim or Jew, Atheist or Jedi, you will be tickled by the RSC’s romp through old time religion. Show Time: 7.30pm Tickets: £15, call 01227 769075 or visit www.thegulbenkian.co.uk

Tuesday 25th February Ed Byrne – Roaring Forties@ Winter Gardens, Margate A self-confessed “miserable old git” since the age of 23, Ed Byrne is now in his Forties. While for others this might result in a crisis that prompts the purchase of a sportscar, Ed embraces middle age with open arms. Come join him, as he truly comes of age and gives out his clarion cry: “I am in my Forties. HEAR ME ROAR!” Show Time: 8pm Tickets: £22.50, call 01843 292795

House Of Legends: Courtney Pine @ St.Mary’s Church, Ashford No musician more embodies the dramatic transformation in the British jazz scene over the past twenty years than Courtney Pine C.B.E. The groundbreaking multiinstrumentalist has led a generation of exciting and innovative players who have broadened their styles to take jazz out to a wider audience. Debuting material from his 15th studio album to date, House of Legends, which sees Courtney return to the saxophone and features his soprano sax exclusively for the first time. Doors Open 7pm for 7.45pm Start Tickets from £17.43 (under 16’s) & £21.92 otherwise from www.ticketweb.co.uk St Mary's Ashford Churchyard, Kent TN23 1QG Ashford

Saturday 1st March Lee Hurst - Things That Make You Go Aaarggh!!! @ Quarterhouse, Folkestone

March

Eastwell Manor, Eastwell Park, Boughton Lees Ashford TN25 4HR Contact: 01233 213000

Thursday 27th February

In his new tour, stand-up comic Lee Hurst is travelling throughout Britain to find out what really winds you up. Mostly people get on with living their lives, but everyone has at least one thing that pushes their button and sends them over the edge. What's yours? Come along for a night of laughter and letting off some steam. Show Time: 8pm Box office 01303 858500 Tickets: £16, £14 concessions.

Friday 7th March Sally Morgan @ Winter Gardens, Margate Britain’s best-loved so-called “psychic” and international star, Sally Morgan returns with her outstanding 2014 nationwide tour. Sally is most well known for being the star of Sky LIVING’s Psychic Sally On The Road! Sally has built up an extensive client lists reading for celebrities and royalty alike including Katie Price, the late Princess Diana and George Michael, which is what has led her to be referred to as the ‘Psychic To The Stars’. Show Time: 7.30pm Tickets: £22 call 01843 292795

[food and drink ]

EAst KeNt

Weddings

Includes:

Design your own Wedding Ring page 76 Dresses to Die For page 78 Wedding Hair Tips page 83 Wedding Make-up page 98 Stunning Venues & plenty more insideâ&#x20AC;Ś 73

[food and drink ]

[weddings ]

PoRt Lympne

Mansion & Gardens

– An Exciting Wedding Venue with a wild twist

The Port Lympne Mansion is a lavishly decorated and distinctive venue situated on the Kent coast making it a unique and popular wedding venue. The elegant 1920’s Mansion is steeped in history and enjoys glorious panoramic views across extensive terraced lawns and landscaped gardens to the English Channel. To make it even more distinctive this exceptional Mansion is nestled in the heart of the world renowned Port Lympne Wild Animal Park. Just an hour from London on the High Speed train, the Mansion is fully licensed to conduct civil wedding ceremonies from 10 to 100. Additionally, there is space for up to 180 guests at your sit down meal as cooked by expert chefs. On your special day the gardens and ground floor of the Mansion are exclusively yours and the use of the rooms are flexible depending on numbers and allows you to create your perfect wedding celebrations that reflect your distinct style and personality. The Mansion and Gardens provides a stunning daytime and evening venue,

whilst the Aspinall Suite provides an impressive evening reception venue. During the summer, weather permitting, there is the option of an outdoor wedding on the Iceberg Terrace. With the Mansion & Gardens at the centre of the South East’s most popular wild animal park, having your wedding at Port Lympne offers a completely unique experience. From elephants to giraffes, gorillas to lions and meerkats to rhinos, your wedding can embrace Africa’s finest. Port Lympne also offers unforgettable hen and stag parties. Celebrate in style and choose from a selection of packages, including VIP safaris, luxurious retreats and indulgent meals. For an exciting night away, you can book the multiaward-winning Livingstone Lodge just for your party. Situated in the 100 acre wilds of The African Experience where animals are free to roam as if on the plains of Africa, Livingstone Lodge

provides an experience like no other! Enjoy champagne on arrival, before embarking on a private safari across our Kentish Savannah and a five course meal. Or perhaps enjoy an indulgent night away with your party at our luxurious Livingstone Cottage. Experience a VIP safari with a private ranger, followed by a mouth-watering dinner cooked by your own private chef and a full English breakfast the next morning, followed by a second VIP safari. New for 2014, six rooms of the Mansion are being renovated and converted into guest rooms all with en suite on the first floor of the Mansion, so enabling your wedding party the convenience of getting married, partying and staying all under one roof. Phone: 01303 234111 Email: info@aspinallfoundtion.org http://www.aspinallfoundation.org/ weddings-events

[weddings ]

unique Create a ring as

as the love you share Ever dream of designing your own wedding ring? With the innovative new bespoke design system at Anthony W Pearce Jewellers in Canterbury, now you can. Working with our jewellery professionals at Anthony W Pearce you get to turn jewellery you like into jewellery you love.

Anthony W Pearce is a family business established in 1976 offering fine jewellery and we pride ourselves on the quality and craftsmanship involved in our manufactured pieces. Buying your wedding rings is an important step.Your wedding rings are not only a symbol of your eternal love but also the one item that you are likely to wear for the rest of your life. Wedding rings through different stages in history have been worn on different fingers, on both the left and right hands. According to a tradition believed to have been derived from the Romans, the wedding ring is worn on the left hand ring finger because there was thought to be a vein in the finger, referred to as the ‘Vena Amoris’ or the ‘Vein of Love’ said to be directly connected to the heart. However, scientists have shown this is actually false. Despite this, this myth still remains regarded by many (hopeless romantics) as the number one reason rings are worn on the fourth finger. Depending on your chosen design, wedding rings can be expensive, but remember – a wedding ring is for life. Many people assume that bespoke jewellery is far more expensive than something that is ‘off the shelf, but with newer modern techniques in design and manufacturing the cost isn’t much different. When designing your own ring you firstly select a starting point design from 76

thousands of options then using our cutting-edge 3D design software, you have creative control to customize every detail of the ring from stone sizes, shape and colour or you can extensive design changes. We can help to guide you on your choices of metals, settings if you’re opting for diamonds and fittings to match an engagement ring. Once you’re satisfied with your masterpiece, we will manufacture the bespoke ring just for you.You will then receive a totally unique one-of-a-kind piece that you helped create. Just remember that it’s your special day and whatever style of ring you choose to go for, whether it’s a bespoke ring or ‘off the shelf ’, make sure it fits in with your unique style and personality. Come in for a free, no-obligation demonstration at 56 St Peters Street, Canterbury, or phone to make an appointment on 01227 463307.

By Andrew Clinch of AW Pearce, Canterbury

[weddings ]

Something Old, Something New... Eco Wedding Tips from The Pines Calyx

Every issue we will be sharing some tips and ideas to save you money, make you healthier, happier and become a little bit greener. As spring has officially sprung, our thoughts naturally turn to weddings as the Pines Garden and the Pines Calyx, Europe’s most sustainable venue, come into their own. If you want to make your wedding as natural and low carbon as possible, here are some suggestions:

support the bees, butterflies and insects which are so vital to pollination and our eco systems. Alternatively, make your own invitations from paper embedded with wild flower seeds, these can then be planted and grown by your guests. See www.wildflower-favours.co.uk for supplies.

Something old -

Something borrowed –

costume jewellery can be recycled and combined with crocheted or knitted flowers, lace and ribbons to make favours, table decorations or even a bridal bouquet – they don’t wilt and make unique keepsakes. Something new –

sow wild flower seeds or plant small bulbs in terracotta flowerpots, or pretty china cups to decorate your reception with fresh, living flowers. These will cost a fraction of traditional floristry displays. Bee friendly wild flower seed mixes are readily available to buy or you can create your own. The pots can be taken home by your guests to

any old china? Bring interest and individuality to your wedding breakfast by using a variety of vintage china tea cups, saucers and crockery. Floral designs look particularly pretty and are easily picked up in charity shops if your granny can’t supply any family heirlooms! Something blue –

cornflowers, hydrangeas and lavender petals, as well as roses of course, make fantastic fresh or dried confetti. Beautiful, biodegradeable and slow falling - brilliant for photographs.

Do something to make a difference –

having your wedding or reception at the Pines Calyx shows your commitment to creating a sustainable future for yourselves and your children. The building itself is beautifully constructed from local materials, has a wildflower meadow and bee hive on its roof and is set in a six acre organically managed garden, with dramatic views of the White Cliffs of Dover. For more inspiration see Alistair Sawday’s The Natural Wedding Book by Louise Moon. Brought to you by The Bay Trust team who manage the Pines Calyx, Europe’s first energy positive, carbon negative wedding and events venue and Rippledown environmental education centre - committed to providing a wide range of opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds to learn about practical sustainable living within a low carbon world. 77

[weddings ]

DResses to Die For

A collection from Bridal Way, Ramsgate Established back in 1989, Bridal Way are proud to celebrate their 25th anniversary this year. Situated in the coastal town of Ramsgate they are the little shop with the big reputation known as one of the finest bridal shops in Kent. Showcasing a stunning collection of bridal gowns bought to you by the worlds most sought after designers, you can be sure to find something you love. Providing excellent customer care and attention to detail, ensuring that you have the perfect experience when buying your wedding dress. To find out more about this fabulous bridal boutique or to make an appointment go to www. bridalway.co.uk 01843 850620

[weddings ]

Kentish Weddings by the sea

Wedding Venues For Your Special Day...

Enjoy your special day and have your wedding ceremony by the sea. Thorley Hotels Group have dedicated and experienced people in place to guide you through all of the necessary arrangements ensuring your Wedding Day is tailored to your dreams. Call your venue of choice for more details The Pavilion, Harbour Street, Broadstairs 01843 600999 www.pavilion-broadstairs.co.uk The Pegwell Bay Hotel, Pegwell Road, Ramsgate 01843 599590 www.pegwellbayhotel.co.uk The Oak Hotel, Harbour Parade, Ramsgate 01843 583686 www.oakhotel.co.uk

www.thanetweddingvenues.co.uk

[weddings ]

Jennifer Baker Timeless hair that you will love forever For all your bridal party needs

16 York Street Ramsgate CT11 9DS T: 01843 852 662 Obsessionssalon.co.uk 82

[weddings ]

Wedding HAir By Jennifer Baker of Obsessions Salon, Ramsgate

Passionate and classic in her approach, Jennifer Baker has been a true power player in the local hairdressing industry since 1995. She started specializing in the wedding sector after completing a course with Royston and Blythe, the duo responsible for many celebrity wedding looks.

Picking the right hair stylist for your special day is hard work. Jennifer Baker a wedding hair specialist for over ten years shares with us her tips on how to successfully find “the one”. Set your Budget

they are trained professionals and it may just be the look you fall in love with.

Think about how much your happy to spend wedding hair can range from £60 - £200 You can start by asking your normal hairdresser then find the names of hairdressers who specialize in wedding hair out of your local wedding magazines. If you still can’t find a stylist then ask your bridal shop whose work they can recommend. They hear lots of good industry professional’s names every day so will know first-hand which stylists are great. TIP: If a hairdresser does lots of wedding hair they will be able to provide you with a wedding specific price list, it’s not uncommon to use a different hairdresser for your wedding day so contact a few and get a feel for things. Work out the stylist

When you have narrowed it down to three stylists call each salon and ask for a 10min appointment to see the stylist’s portfolio.You can get a lot from this meeting, you’re looking for a stylist who’s confident in hair up, has done lots of weddings and had great feedback from past brides.

Don’t leave it too late

You will regret it! Even if you are DIYing you should be trialing at least 4 months before. TIP: Book your trial run for hair and make up the morning of a dress fitting. This will enable you to pull the whole look together ahead of the wedding; most brides only get to do this on the actual day. TIP: If every other bride has a cutting edge messy look and your style is contemporary and timeless this is not your stylist. Book your trial run

The stylist should be asking you about the key details in your wedding, the dress, neckline and fabric, the bridesmaid’s style and your theme. They should then have a range of styles in mind for you to consider all meeting the brief you have provided them with and taking into account your face and head shape and your hair colour and texture. TIP: If your stylist asks to just try something outside your brief go with it,

Remember, arranging a wedding is supposed to fun. Being organized and getting together a list of suppliers early allows you to pick your way through the list and find some real gems I made up a mood board which I only showed suppliers (my wedding was top secret). It enabled everyone to get exactly what I wanted from flowers and bespoke table cupcakes to hair and make-up and I got the wedding I dreamed of. For a list of our local hidden gems and our bridal price list go to www.obsessionssalon.co.uk or call on 01843 852662 Happy picking! 83

[weddings ]

Abbots Barton Hotel

Canterbury

Cathedral Suite which seats up to 120 people for a wedding breakfast and 180 for an evening reception. The Cathedral suite has views and direct access to the gardens which provides an idyllic setting for marquees holding up to 250 guests.

The Abbots Barton was built in 1830 as a private house and became a hotel in 1927 expanding to its present size. The hotel has 53 beautifully furnished en suite bedrooms, the Fountain Restaurant which seats up to 70 diners, 4 private function rooms suitable for smaller and more intimate weddings and the

Wedding couples can choose from a selection of seasonal and modern British menu options which have been thoughtfully created using ethically sourced ingredients from local farms and suppliers where possible complimented by some comprehensive drink packages. Alternatively, our chef and his brigade can offer and quote for bespoke, tailor made menus to suit. Unlike other venues such as private halls and barns, the Abbots Barton can cater

for the majority of your requirements without having to outsource these to the likes of external food caterers and accommodation providers at a premium cost to you and your guests. Being a 'one stop shop' for your event also means that our experienced wedding coordinator can guide you where necessary and will liaise directly with each department relieving you of the stress that comes from having to organise everything yourself with several different suppliers. Furthermore, if your pre-ordered food and drinks package reaches just ÂŁ4,500, the venue hire will be thrown in free of charge which could result in further savings in comparison to other venues without compromising on quality.

The Burlington Hotel

Folkestone

The Burlington Hotel is a nineteenth century Victorian-Edwardian 3 star hotel that has been tastefully modernised whilst retaining its old world charm and elegance, set in tranquil surroundings overlooking the famous Leas Promenade and the English Channel. The Premier Suite can accommodate up to 140 guests for a wedding breakfast and 200 for an evening reception whilst smaller rooms are also available for more intimate events. The hotel also holds a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Marriages and Civil Partnership Licenceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; so that you can host your entire event with us. The beautifully decorated Radnor Suite can accommodate up to 120 guests for your ceremony. There are many advantages to choosing a hotel over a private hall or a barn for your special day. The hotel can act as a 'one stop shop' for most of your needs and can also save you money. Most other venues don't have on-site accommodation for you

and your guests, have expensive venue hire charges and also outsource their catering requirements at premium rates so that you have to deal with several suppliers for your event. The Burlington Hotel offers free accommodation for the bride and groom, discounted accommodation rates for your guests so that they can relax and enjoy the night without worrying about the costs of getting home and also free venue hire*.

Whilst organising a wedding can be a daunting task, the Burlington's experienced wedding coordinator will be on hand to assist you with every aspect of planning your big day. Whether you choose a traditional celebration or something more contemporary, they will be there to advise and guide where necessary and to ensure that your day is truly special.

[weddings ]

Canterbury Cathedral Lodge Looking for a unique wedding venue in Canterbury? Set within the beautiful grounds of Canterbury Cathedral, the Cathedral Lodge offers brides a very special and truly unique venue to hold their wedding reception and in line with the true ethos of the Cathedral, wedding couples and guests will be assured a very warm welcome. The Cathedral Lodge can cater for anything from a small intimate wedding breakfast in the modern Restaurant, to a sit down meal for up to 120 guests in the magnificent Clagett Auditorium. Couples may choose to enjoy a drinks reception in the Kentish Barn, which enjoys wonderful views of the Cathedral from its large bay windows or alternatively the private Campanile Garden is available for Summer drinks

receptions and of course those very important photos. Brides-to-be have the chance to experience this unique venue at a wedding open day on Sunday 23rd February 2014, from 11am to 3pm. Visitors can view the wonderful facilities, meet the fantastic team and enjoy some sparkling wine and canapĂŠs in an unforgettable location! All visitors to the wedding fair will be entered in to a prize draw to win a night's stay for two, including full English Breakfast and entrance to Canterbury Cathedral . To make an appointment to attend the wedding open day, please call 01227 865350. For further information visit www.canterburycathedrallodge.org

a hidden wedding gem Situated within a wonderful and unique location in the grounds of Canterbury Cathedral, sits a modern and contemporary wedding reception venue accommodating up to 120 guests for a sit down wedding breakfast. Imagine enjoying a champagne drinks reception in the beautiful Campanile garden, with the Cathedral as a stunning backdrop. Wedding guests can enjoy well appointed overnight guest accommodation with Cathedral views from all rooms. Canterbury Cathedral Lodge The Precincts, Canterbury, Kent, CT1 2EH Tel: 01227 865350 Fax: 01227 865388 Email: meet@canterburycathedrallodge.org

www.canterburycathedrallodge.org

Looking for a wedding venue in Dover or Margate? Come & discover our four fabulous venues...

Our venues, Theatre Royal (Margate) and Maison Dieu (Dover) are fully licensed to hold civil ceremonies and include features such as a unique Victorian theatre stage and a 800 year old medieval hall with stunning stained glass and historic dĂŠcor & paintings. These are supported by fabulous reception venues at Northdown House (Margate) an elegant English manor house in a parkland setting with a grand open staircase. The Winter Gardens (Margate) which is ideal for larger parties with a popular seaside and Turner sunset setting. The Maison Dieu (Dover) also benefits from having a variety of suites available for receptions right alongside your ceremony. Having the advantage of our very own in-house catering teams and facilities, we can tailor your needs and preferences to your requirements. A dedicated wedding co-ordinator will provide you with the support you need to ensure that your day with us is one to remember. Call today to arrange a visit 01843 296111.

Northdown House, Margate Ideal For Wedding Receptions A hidden gem in the heart of Thanet, this elegant English manor house is set in the picturesque grounds of Northdown Park, Palm Bay. The tree lined sweeping drive entrance unveils this beautiful building that provides a great intimate venue for wedding receptions. Ideal for a private setting for up to 130 people, and the backdrop of the park offers further flexibility to erect a marquee for larger parties. A private garden is available for those memorable wedding photographs.

Theatre Royal Margate Bringing a little Theatre to the proceedings A truly unique and dramatic setting for weddings and civil marriage - the Theatre Royal is licensed for Marriage Ceremonies. You will have full use of England's oldest stage From 20 to 360 ceremony guests and use of the bar or if you wish onto one of our other venues for the reception.

Winter Gardens, Margate Ideal For Larger Wedding Parties The largest banqueting venue in Kent is steeped with history, the building is a real testimony to Edwardian architecture and has retained many of its original features. Main Hall: The premier dining suite in Kent â&#x20AC;&#x201C; dining and dancing for up to 800 . The Main Stage provides an impressive backdrop for any occasion. Queens Hall: Adjacent to the Main Hall, is the second largest hall in the Winter Gardens complex. The flexibility of the Queens Hall makes it a popular function suite in the area, catering comfortably for numbers of 100-350 guests.

Maison Dieu, Dover Town Hall Perfect Traditional Wedding Ceremonies The historic Maison Dieu has been a place of hospitality and celebration for almost 800 years. Today the building boasts a magnificent suite of four beautiful rooms, complemented by historic paintings and splendid Victorian stained glass windows. Having been approved for civil marriage, the Maison Dieu can accommodate various sized parties for ceremonies with the Stone Hall (seating 280) and Council Chambers (seating 70). The flexibility of the venue also allows for additional guests of up to 300 for a sit down reception and 400 for an evening celebration. Telephone 01843 296111 www.yourleisure.uk.com events@yourleisure.uk.com

[weddings ]

Weddings at Eastwell Manor

Eastwell Manor is a family-owned, four Red Star Country House Hotel and Spa where you can enjoy your bespoke Wedding Ceremony and Reception at one stunning location which is impossible to beat and impossible to forget. There are four special areas licensed for weddings and civil ceremonies: three beautiful oak-panelled rooms in the historic Manor House which are licensed for ceremonies of up to 135 guests and an Italian Walled Maids Garden, filled with an abundance of historic charm, stunning seasonal flower displays and a bridge over the lily pond leading to the elegant gazebo which is licensed for ceremonies of up to 150 guests. The manicured lawns with views of the surrounding countryside and Manor House are perfect for larger, marquee weddings. The historic Manor House sits at the end of a long tree-lined drive and comprises 23 individually designed, en-suite bedrooms and suites offering space, elegance and sumptuous comfort, some with four poster beds and glorious views. Groups of friends or families can also enjoy the 1, 2 or 3 en-suite bedroom cottages built in the sympathetically converted original Victorian stables which include a shared

living room with kitchen and dining facilities. Whether in the Manor House or the cottages every room has all the modern day facilities that you would expect from a first class country house hotel. Residents of Eastwell Manor can also experience the extensive spa and leisure facilities free of charge including the 20-metre, heated, indoor swimming pool, the outdoor, heated swimming pool (Summer months), steam room, sauna, Jacuzzi, hydrotherapy pool, TechnoGym, Tennis Court and Petanque pitches. The Manor Restaurant was recently awarded 5th place in The Times â&#x20AC;&#x153;20 Most Romantic Restaurants in Britainâ&#x20AC;? and was the only Kentish restaurant to be included. Head Chef, Gareth Attwell, is passionate about food and how it is sourced. His menus change according to the seasons and as much as possible is obtained from local producers. The Ă la carte menu is available for luncheon

from Monday to Saturday and seven days a week for dinner. Traditional Sunday lunch is served on Sundays. Dreams beauty salon and spa has recently been awarded Guinot Crown Salon 2014 which is recognition of excellence in the field of professional skincare. Treatments include residential, day and evening packages as well as regular individual treatments. Eastwell Manor is gorgeous: with its period charm, award winning cuisine, regal surroundings, warming log fires, some of the finest spa and leisure facilities in England and with a quality of service that is hard to equal it is the venue of choice. Whether you are seeking an individual, personally customized wedding or an all-inclusive wedding package the dedicated wedding planners and coordinators will guide you from start to finish and take the stress out of you wedding, leaving you and your guests to relax and enjoy your special day. 89

[weddings ]

The

Pegwell Bay

Hotel

The Pegwell Bay Hotel is idyllically located on the waters edge of Pegwell Bay, overlooking the Channel and picturesque cliffs; an area steeped in history and beauty. Licensed for civil ceremonies, and with the recent renovation of all 42 hotel rooms; including the bridal suites, all with superb sea views and luxurious leather sleigh beds, The Pegwell Bay Hotel able to offer every thing you need for your special day, all in one beautiful location. For hosting your ceremony & reception The Pegwell Bay Hotel is proud to offer the choice of either The Clifton Suite; a picture of Victorian elegance, or for a more contemporary setting, The Ravenscliff Suite with its seaside decking area. The jewel in the Pegwell’s crown has to be the stunning outside gazebo, where their lucky couples exchange their vows feet from the waters edge; truly beautiful. At night time the decking area and gazebo really come into their own, 90

with the sun setting over picturesque cliffs. The beautiful lighting set around the gazebo, you can hardly imagine a more perfect setting for your photos. The Pegwell Bay Hotel pride themselves on their levels of service, and aim to exceed the bride and groom’s expectations. Dedicated wedding co-ordinators are on hand to help you every step of the way with the planning of your big day, to offer friendly advice, and a wealth of experience. The Pegwell Bay hotel offers a selection of packages, including a fully inclusive package starting from just £3,995 which incorporates not only your reception but also all key suppliers. Aiming to cater for all of your wedding requirements, whilst giving you the flexibility to tailor a package to

suit your individual needs they strive to “create the wedding of your dreams.” A team of dedicated chefs use only the finest ingredients, locally sourced and prepared with flair and attention to detail, ensuring a wedding breakfast to remember. To be able to fully appreciate the beautifully unique setting of this venue, we would definitely recommend you arrange an appointment with one of their wedding co-ordinators, who will be more than happy to show you around and take some time to sit down and discuss your requirements in full. The Pegwell Bay Hotel, Pegwell Road, Ramsgate 01843 599590 www.pegwellbayhotel.co.uk

[weddings ]

St Edmunds Canterbury The beautiful, historic setting of St Edmund’s overlooks the city and cathedral of Canterbury, giving you and your guests a stunning panoramic view from St Thomas Hill.

Rental and catering packages available to suit all budgets – Please contact our lettings department at: Tel: 012274756289 Email: gcd@stedmunds.org.uk

Founded in 1858 by Dr Samuel Warnford, its’ magnificent 19th century historic buildings are set amongst acres of tranquil mature gardens and parkland, and offer an ideal location for your wedding day. Approved for civil marriages, civil partnerships and renewal of vows for up to 120 guests, St Edmund’s is the quintessential English venue that promises to make your occasion truly memorable. Step inside and you’ll discover the Drawing room and Terrace with its’ scenic views, creating an intimate atmosphere for your ceremony, and the traditional oak-panelled Dining Hall, a perfect space for your wedding reception. Outside, the elegant limestone-arched colonnade provides a wonderful location for an outdoor ceremony, followed by a marquee reception on our lawns. Whatever your needs, whether small and intimate affairs, or larger receptions, let the magnificent venue of St Edmund’s be the starting point for your special day

A unique and sustainable venue, set in six acres of beautiful gardens and a stone’s throw from the beach at St. Margaret’s Bay

pinescalyx.co.uk 01304 851 737 The Pines Garden, Beach Road, St. Margaret’s Bay, Kent CT15 6DZ PCx Wedding Ad 190x133.indd 1

06/03/2013 09:44

[health and beauty ]

losing o Have fun

weight for your big day (yeah really!) By Amy McManus

Amy McManus talks wedding weightloss and shows how local Zumba Instructor and Herbalife distributor Stacey Etherington helped her drop the pounds New Year, New You? Now there’s a phrase that gets used a lot nowadays, especially in January. Personally, I’d rather stay the same ‘me’ but just lose a few pounds, tone up and most importantly, not starve to death while I’m doing it. For all of you Spring and Summer brides, your keep-fit and weight-loss plans may already be in full swing, hopefully with fantastic results to follow. I am happy to say that my weight loss plan for my wedding was...fun...yes I actually said it. I wanted to lose 7lb and gave myself a long time to do it; 2 months to lose it before my dress fittings. After all, if there is one thing worse that not fitting into your wedding dress, it’s swimming in it on your big day. So...do you want to know how I did it without starving myself or spending my life at the gym? For this article let’s scratch the ‘New You’ bit and go with New Year, Healthier You, and Smaller Dress Size. This is not just about losing a few pounds for your wedding day, but becoming healthier as a person and changing any unhealthy lifestyle habits for good! 92

[health and beauty ]

STAGE ONE: ZUMBA! Yes, I know I may be writing about this one a little late as it is already a global sensation! For those of you who haven’t tried it already, Zumba is a dance fitness program created by Colombian dancer and choreographer Alberto "Beto" Perez during the 1990s. Zumba involves dance and aerobic elements and choreography from hip-hop, soca, samba, salsa, merengue, mambo and some martial arts. As testament to its popularity, approximately 14 million people take weekly Zumba classes in over 140,000 locations across more than 150 countries.

individually as they all have different techniques and levels. My first Zumba class was with local instructor Stacey Etherington. Stacey’s style suited me perfectly. From the personal greeting at the door to my favourite songs during the class; I don’t think I have ever had so much fun working out. Stacey’s Zumba classes are like one big family of all sizes and ages; 7 to 80, with everyone giving their all. Stacey says “I like my Zumba clients to feel as though they are part of one big group of friends who are all having a great time, the atmosphere is addictive.”

comfortable shaking my bum and ‘letting it all hang out.’You spend an hour dancing, meet a great group of people and completely forget that you are working out. What could be better?

Firstly, it’s really important to find a Zumba instructor that suits you

There is certainly no other class or gym workout where I would feel

www.staceyetherington.zumba.com www.facebook.com/zumbawithstaceyuk

to choose from); Lunch - Regular Healthy Meal; Dinner - Regular Healthy Meal; Snacks - Tomato Soup or Soya Beans or Chocolate protein bar (Yep that’s right, I said chocolate.) If you want to lose a lot of weight you can also replace your lunch or dinner with a shake.

With both Herbalife and Zumba combined Stacey not only helped me to lose my 7lb, but I have not put it on since. I put this down to the invaluable support she offers all of her clients as real people rather than numbers on a sales sheet. My wedding weight-loss was healthy, controlled and left me feeling amazing on the big day. I guess it was a New Me. A healthier, happier me; the weight-loss was just a bonus.

Now for the numbers. Depending on your weight and the intensity of your Zumba class, you can burn between 500 and 1000 calories in 60 minutes. That is insane! So, fancy giving it a go? Stacey will be offering new clients their first Zumba class for £3. Check-out her website and Facebook page for more details.

STAGE TWO: HERBALIFE! I am a healthy person with a wealth of nutritional knowledge, so I hate being told what to eat and instantly presume that it will never fill me up or will taste awful. I’m not going to lie; I thought the exact same thing when my Zumba instructor (Stacey) told me about Herbalife. I had heard many things about Herbalife and not all of them good, so was on a negative grounding from the start. I expected it to be like Slim-Fast, which not only can taste terrible, but also gives you constipation through its lack of fibre. However, I was finally convinced and in hindsight wished I had gone for it sooner. I can safely say that Herbalife is definitely not like Slim-Fast. Not only do the shakes taste good, but they are substantial an actually leave you feeling full (no word of a lie!) My Herbalife diary looked something like this: Breakfast - Shake (many flavours

However, what I loved the most was not the food. It was Stacey’s constant support throughout the entire process. As she is a qualified personal trainer and instructor, you don’t just get a health product, you get the wealth of knowledge that comes with it and the tools you need to reach your goals. All of the products contain vitamins, minerals, fibre and protein to make sure that your body is supported and receives all of the nutrition it required. There are also additional vitamin and fibre tablets which can be taken alongside your plan.

Should you wish to start a Herbalife 3-day trial or learn more about the products, get in contact to order a product list. Stacey will be offering new clients 10% off their first order. Check-out her Facebook page for more details. www.facebook.com/ herbalifewithstaceyuk

[weddings ]

What do you want from your wedding photography? By Rebecca Douglas

I always ask couples how they want to feel on their wedding day and how they see photography complimenting their plans. You could ask yourself: • What’s your style? Do you like traditional, documentary, modern and edgy or retro and vintage? • How do you want your photography experience to feel on your day? Do you want lots of posed images or someone who slots in and documents your day as it happens. • Do you want an album or DVD only with all of the images, or both? • What is your budget? Photography is the only lasting reminder of your day so think carefully about what have you budgeted. Is it realistic? Hit the internet for some research

Start by searching for photographers via wedding blogs and magazines and follow them on social media so you can keep up to date with their recent work. Be sure to contact them as soon as you find them to see if they are free on your wedding date. It’s also a good chance to see what their speed of response is like. Are they efficient and good at getting back to you as the customer? The magic combination: Their personality plus their images

The Essentials

Lastly you need to do a bit of admin! Make sure your photographer has public liability and public indemnity insurance as well as professional (full-frame cameras) and back up gear. Read their terms and condition carefully. Also check they have back up on and off site for images and how long they keep them for so they are not lost forever! It’s also helpful at this point to see what images you will get (how many and what resolution) and your rights to print and upload. It’s worth asking how they will use them and will they edit images, plus you need to find out how quickly you will get the images and/or albums after the wedding. It’s a great idea to have an engagement shoot to get used to being in front of the camera and work with your photographer prior to your day.You’ll have a whole other set of images that you can look back on and love just as much. Be adventurous, bring your hobbies into your shoot, go somewhere that means a lot to you as a couple and most of all, have fun! Rebecca Douglas is a Kent based wedding photographer specialising in creating romanitic, elegant, quirky images full of love and emotion. www.rebeccadouglas.co.uk hello@rebeccadouglas.co.uk

When you meet with your photographer it important that you strike up an instant rapport and you’re happy that they are focused on you and your ideas for your day. Ask to see a whole wedding rather than the photographer’s selection of the best bits on their website. When looking at photos listen to your intuition, what is your gut reaction to their images? You should LOVE, LOVE, LOVE them! Can you see yourself in the images? Are the key moments captured? Are the images sharp? Do the images look well lit? Do the people look comfortable and relaxed? Are the images taken from flattering angles? 95

[feature ]

Hot

HoNeymoon Hotels

We round up a collection of unique and unforgettable bolt-holes around the world that make perfect places to spend your first days and nights of wedded bliss. For beach brides and grooms The Crimson Resort, Cebu, The Philippines

If you’re looking for the perfect luxury beach resort to celebrate your honeymoon in one of the world’s friendliest countries, the stunning Asian-inspired Crimson Resort on Cebu’s Mactan Island is the ideal retreat. This is the classic dream combination of sand, sea, swimming, spa and sunbathing, where you’ll enjoy your own huge luxury villa complete with not only a private plunge pool, fourposter bed but also a charming handwashing ceremony on arrival – and the legendary Cebu mango, prized all over the world for its delicate flavour is included in your complementary fruit basket. It may be hard to leave the tranquillity of the resort behind when you’re on honeymoon but it’s worth the effort to walk the old walls of Fort San Pedro and visit Magellan’s Cross, the most historically significant spot in The Philippines. Back at the hotel you can make use of the onsite spa; housed in a large separate building it is a refined and serene outpost with its own luxury pool, jacuzzi, sauna and steam room, as well as highly-trained therapists who specialise in hot stone massages. Visit www.crimsonhotel.com/mactan

[feature ] For island lovers Pangkor Laut, Malaysia

The concept here is ‘One Island, One Resort’ meaning the entire 300-acre island is your honeymoon paradise complete with nature trails, pools, spa pavilions, restaurants and bars to explore - but only a small fraction of it is developed, so you have the perfect combination of pristine wilderness and impeccable service.

Dinner On The Rocks is the romantic highlight - a fine dining experience perched off the rocks overlooking the straits while stringed instruments are strummed alongside your table. At the end of the meal you’re presented with a photograph to remember the occasion complete with hand-made wooden frame. Staff have seem to know what you want before you even know it yourself, your breakfast buffet is shared with

roaming peacocks, and the ritual massage experience will soothe away any lingering wedding-planning worries. Luxuriate in a your outdoor power showers under tropical palms, try water-skiing on calm waters and have some decadent cocktails by the infinity pool – this is how honeymoons are meant to be. Visit www.pangkorlautresort.com

For serenity seekers

For the nature-seeking couple

Heritage Suites, Siem Reap, Cambodia

The Wickaninnish Inn, Tofino, Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada

Heritage Suites is pure colonial luxury, tucked away in a leafy residential area behind Wat Polanka near the Siem Reap River - but you won't need to know this before arrival because the hotel will collect you in one of their two super-cool vintage Mercedes, which are the perfect way to arrive at your honeymoon hotel in style. After picking your way through romantic shaded pathways to your private villa, each named after a different tropical flower, you'll be delighted to discover your main problem for the next few days is deciding where to wash - choosing between luxurious basins, an indoor free standing stone tub, and even an outdoor shower in a leafy secluded garden. Or head back inside to your own private steam room, just big enough for two. Climbing up the wooden platform onto the inviting bed after a session exploring the wonders of Angkor Wat is a joy, and the soothing, sophisticated decor makes a perfect cocoon from the heat and dust of the day. As you would expect from a Relais & Chateux property you're every need is catered for from mossie spray on hand at breakfast to cocktails on the legendary Thursday jazz nights, until the moment you climb back into your classic car to be chauffeur driven onto your next destination. Visit www.heritagesuiteshotel.com

It’s hard not to feel the romance once you’re enveloped in the elegant, rustic and secluded setting of what’s known here on Vancouver Island as simply The Wick, a hotel that’s as truly connected to the natural environment as it is possible to be - while being delightfully disconnected from the rest of the world. The intimate atmosphere makes it fitting then that the hotel specialises in elopements - as well as honeymoons and anniversaries - and a range of packages are on offer; All You Need Is Love is perfect for honeymooners as it includes a special romantic turndown service: the bigenough-for-two bath is filled with orchid petals and romantic music fills the air, champagne and truffles are included and the lucky couple can enjoy a tasting menu dinner at the hotel’s fine dining restaurant The Pointe. Voted number 1 resort in Canada by Condé Nast Traveler Magazine in their readers’ choice survey you can spend your honeymoon here walking on the endless beach, spotting local wildlife, from starfish and sand dollars to bald eagles and whales, and come winter storm watching is firmly on the agenda – this part of the Canadian coastline is famed for its spectacular storms, in stark contrast to the serenity and relaxation once you’re back inside enjoying the comforts of this cosy hotel. Visit www.wickinn.com 97

[weddings ]

WeddiNg MaKe-Up

Tutorial By Amy McManus

Professional make-up artist Gemma Dale gives a glorious make-over to our very own Amy McManus and shows us how to achieve the blushing-bride look. Most brides have the same wish when it comes to their wedding day looks; flawless make-up which makes the most of their features. Bridal make-up is generally quite natural and understated, but every bride is different and it is important for them to get exactly what they want on their special day. Gemma Dale, of Bliss Beauty Therapy in Eastry, helps dozens of women every year achieve their perfect blushing bride looks. Let’s look a little deeper into how this look is achieved. Prepare the skin for make-up.

Gemma starts by firstly cleansing the skin and applying a good moisturiser. “If your skin is generally quite oily use a lighter lotion. Then apply your primer to any open pores and fine lines. This will smooth out the areas and give a smooth complexion so your make-up doesn’t ‘sink in’ and highlight them.” Achieving the perfect base.

Gemma applies a concealer on reddened /darkened areas and under the eyes with the tip of a finger or a brush, to even the skin tone. She then uses a highlighter around the eye contours, the brow line and in the cleft of the chin. “I like to apply with a concealer brush and blend with a sponge to achieve a really flawless finish.” Next it’s time for the foundation. She uses a mineral based powder foundation as it is light on the face and is brilliant for skin prone to breakouts. “Apply with a kabuki brush in circular movements.” Some beautiful blusher on the cheeks and the flawless base is complete. 98

Perfect bridal eyes.

Gemma applies three eyeshadows from the same colour group; light, medium and dark. The light shade is applied from the lash to brow line, the medium in the crease (or just above) of the eye and the darker on the outside corner of the eye. The darker shade can also be used to enhance the Kohl eyeliner which is applied to the corner of the top and bottom eyelid for a more natural look. The eyebrows are carefully shaded in with pencil or powder to give more definition. Finally to finish, she uses a light application of mascara. Working from the base to the tips and applying two coats. “In some cases it also works really well to enhance the lashes using a pair of falsies, but this is down to individual preference.” Puckering up those lips!

Gemma always uses a lip sealant to keep the lips soft and lightly applies a lip liner to stop the colour from bleeding. “Try not to choose a bright lip colour as this will draw the attention away from your eyes. A coating of gloss on top gives the lips a youthful appearance and you’re done!” For a no-obligation consultation with Gemma or quote please call (01304) 619212 All East-Kent Lifestyle readers receive 15% off when quoting the magazine

[weddings ]

CanterburyWedding Your

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When Max proposed, I was so excited planning my dress and the flowers - all except the photographs.

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I always hated having my photo taken and tried to smile covering my teeth.

My friend told me to go to Riccarda, and together we planned my orthodontic treatment into my wedding budget. On the day I just couldn't stop smiling!

your smile by

Riccarda Kane

The Birchington Orthodontic Practice www.birchingtonortho.co.uk GDC Registration Number: 64202

7 Surrey Gardens, Birchington, Kent, CT7 9SA Telephone 01843 844600