bloom Magazine Issue 4: March 2012
The very latest news from the community delivered to your letterbox for free every month.
Food and cookery ranging from easy peasy inspiration to recipes to local restaurant reviews.
Goodbye winter.. Hello spring!
What’s going on in your own neighbourhood, health, beauty, local legends and much more.
Sandwich Sarah Pacini Transit Olivia Rubin Charli Not Your Daughters Jeans Part two Inwear Carla Ruiz Emu Australia
50 Bloomfield Avenue Belfast, BT5 5AD Tel: 028 9045 7719 www.thewhitebicycle.co.uk Launching soon: www.toriswardrobe.com
A very warm welcome, come on in. .
Issue 4
Hello
Welcome It’s certainly a lot more reassuring at this time of year when firstly we have the added advantage of more light every day which is certainly good for the spirits and also the prospect of warmer times ahead. With the winter now pretty much behind us, we can look forward to more outdoor pursuits which can mean taking the children to the park without three vests on, letting the dog out without three vests on and sitting out in the garden for that much deserved tipple without three vests on. The trick is to not tempt fate by wheeling the barbecue and sun loungers out just yet before the sun really kicks in. But whether your pursuits are indoor or outdoor this month, we have lined up a scorcher inside anyway. Jam packed with news, events and all sorts like that to keep you busy plus with Belfast Fashion Week in our sights, we take our cue from some local boutiques in our Fashion Special. With temperatures still a tad nippy, we have laid on some cracking soup recipes in our Cookbook. We also have our Rising Star; furniture wizard Jenny Bond, Food Focus which is No 36 on the Belmont Road and the incredible story of SD Bells who with 125 years in business epitomise our Local Legend feature. Local people and all with varying skills and talents for you to explore along with our array of local advertisers... with spring ahoy, East Belfast is in Bloom. If you would like to find out how you could grow your own business by advertising with us, contact angela@bloommagazine.co.uk 07719 104862 If you have news, events, charity updates or anything else you want East Belfast to know about, contact stuart@bloommagazine.co.uk
@bloommag
Find us on
Bloom Magazine 308 Albertbridge Road Belfast BT5 4GX www.bloommagazine.co.uk Printed by GPS www.gpscolour.co.uk Any views expressed within are not necessarily endorsed by Bloom Magazine or Newborn Media. Reference to any specific product or service does not constitute or imply its endorsement or recommendation by Bloom Magazine. Links and contacts are provided for user convenience and do not constitute or imply endorsement or recommendation by Bloom Magazine. Any reproduction without permission is prohibited.
www.bloommagazine.co.uk 3
Belf ast Blooms floral art
At Belfast Blooms we have been supplying beautiful flowers since 1998. Our customers love our unique blend of blooms and exotic flowers.
“Don’t forget Mother’s Day on Sunday 18th March... Let us help you with a special bouquet for the occasion!” Gift Flowers • Wedding Flowers • Funeral Tributes • Corporate & Private Events • School Formals
87 Castlereagh Street, Belfast BT5 4FN Tel: 028 9045 0650 www.belfastblooms.co.uk
Contents
March 2012
Bloom. The local magazine for your community. 16
23
22
34
WALK THE WAY OF LOVE !*
6 Local News
23 Cookbook
15 Health & Beauty
28 Food Focus
16 Fashion Special
30 What’s On?
22 Rising Star
34 Local Legend
11 / 11
- www.agenceadhoc.com Photo Alain Monéger - Stylisme Pénélope de Kilmaine - boutique Bleu Marine Cholet. * Marcher sur le chemin de l’amour
Your latest headlines direct from the East and slightly further afield.
The experts from The Secret Day Spa detail how you can fake it in style!
East Belfast boutiques preview the season’s trends ahead.
Furniture reviver Jenny Bond on the art of giving pieces a new lease of life.
What better way to warm the soul awaiting summer temperatures than a bowl of soup.
We visit brand new restaurant No 36 as they settle onto the Belmont Road.
From toddlers groups to exhibitions and classes, it’s time to get busy.
125 years in business, the incredible story of SD Bells. www.bloommagazine.co.uk 5
News
Your local news and views stuart@bloommagazine.co.uk
Titanic Belfast has taken delivery of a ‘Titanic’ sign as a focal point for the plaza outside the visitor attraction. At 15m long and weighing 15 tonnes it’s believed to be the largest steel sign ever constructed in Northern Ireland – it just happens to be around the same weight as Titanic’s anchor and the same length as the private promenade available with Titanic’s most expensive suites. The lazer-cut sign was made from eight, 30mm thick, solid steel plates by BSK Engineering, based near Cookstown.
IrIsh FA EAstEr soccEr schools - sIgn up todAy!
The IFA Soccer Schools are running right across the province over the Easter holidays.The camps are open to boys and girls aged between 5 and 14 years old and run over three consecutive days. Plus, with discounted online rates and reductions for families, this year’s Easter Soccer Schools are fantastic value. For information of dates and venues and to book, visit www.irishfasoccerschools.com
Barnardo’s calls for more foster carers in East Belfast
Barnardo’s NI is urgently appealing for more foster carers in the East Belfast area to come forward. At present over 100 foster carers* are needed across Northern Ireland. Lynda Wilson, Director, Barnardo’s NI said, ‘Children can be in need of fostering for many reasons and it is Barnardo’s job to place the right child with the right parents. Our aim is to place children in long term foster care to give them the stability and support they so desperately need. We are also urgently in need of carers who can foster siblings. It’s hugely important to try and keep brothers and sisters together because it’s one less loss when a child is coming into care.’ Local foster carer Norman, who together with his wife has been a Barnardo’s foster carer for over five years said, ‘Fostering can be difficult but there is also a great sense of satisfaction in changing lives for the better. It is different to bringing your own children up and the challenges can be stimulating and expand you as an individual. Certainly the balance of home life changes when one or two children arrive and everyone has to give a little bit but overall it is a very positive experience.’ For further information about fostering with Barnardo’s NI T: 028 9065 2288. *Figures according to the Foster Network Northern Ireland.
6 www.bloommagazine.co.uk
Welfare reform – will it ‘pay to work’ for parents?
Top of the Pop Ups
ReFound is a group of creative individuals who REcreate a collection of reclaimed furniture. Led by Jill O’Neill, the team of artists/designers/makers salvage these unwanted, past-their-primepieces, giving them a new life. The ReFound Artist network make even the most unpromising piece of furniture look appealing and chic by giving it a more contemporary style and thus a new lease of life. Showcasing exactly what they do, they will be creating a pop-up shop in the city centre in March. This, their sixth ReFound pop-up, returns to Belfast after a run across NI and also in Glasgow. Showing the latest collection of their unique brand of restyled found pieces and ‘works of furniture’ by local artists and makers, the pop-up shop promises to be a feast for lovers of vintage and one-off brands. Set in the unique setting of an early 1900’s building, ReFound will be not only the reclaiming furniture but also the interior! 9 Wellington place, Belfast, Bt1 6gA. March 10th - 31st. open 11-6 daily; til 7pm Thurs-Fri, closed Mondays. www.refoundonline.com
Local Charity Employers For Childcare Charitable Group voiced its concern at the Coalition Government’s decision to overturn recent welfare amendments made in the House of Lords. Nora Smith, Policy and Information Director with Employers For Childcare commented: ‘Changes to date include the reductions in support with childcare costs under Working Tax Credit and reduced tapers on eligibility for Child Tax Credit. With more changes due from 6 April, many families are facing further financial support being removed.’ The timescale for the introduction of Universal Credit will commence from October 2013, with the full force of the legislation due to be implemented by 2017. Of particular concern to Employers For Childcare is the impact of the new system on childcare costs. ‘Most worryingly of all and what is not clear is what support will be available with childcare costs. With the high cost of childcare, many parents need the financial support in order to justify remaining in the labour market. If further support is removed, and the cost of childcare outweighs the financial benefits of working, it will place many families under considerable strain.’ Employers For Childcare recently launched a petition to highlight the importance of childcare affordability. Hundreds of signatures from a mixture of parents, employers and politicians have already given their support. To show your support for this petition, go to www.employersforchildcare.org If you are a parent and have concerns about the changes, contact the childcare Benefits Advisory team on 0800 028 6538 or cba@employersforchildcare.org.
MusIc tour BAcK on trAcK
The award-winning Belfast Music bus tour has returned from its winter break and now leaves from a new departure point – the lobby of the UIster Hall. Authored and organised by Oh Yeah on behalf of Belfast City Council, the tour is a two-hour journey through Belfast’s rich musical story and the characters who populate it, from Ruby Murray to Gary Moore, Them to Stiff Little Fingers, James Galway to David Holmes. Tours take place on 10 and 24 March, 7, 14 and 21 April. Booking is essential and tickets, priced £8 for adults and £6 for concessions, can be obtained from the Belfast Welcome Centre in Donegall Place. During March, every ticket holder will also get a copy of the Oh Yeah’s ‘Contenders’ showcase CD. For more information, log on to www.belfastmusic.org or call 028 9024 6609. www.bloommagazine.co.uk 7
News
Your local news and views stuart@bloommagazine.co.uk
Comber Greenway to extend to Titanic Quarter The Comber Greenway cycle route is to be extended through East Belfast to link up with the Titanic Quarter. The route will run through Ballymacarrett to the £90m Titanic visitor attraction. Four new crossings will be installed at Kings Rd, Beersbridge Road, Dee Street and Sydenham Rd, and the Bridge End railway halt also will be upgraded, with improved pedestrian and cycle access. The project has been funded by Sustrans, the Big Lottery Fund, Belfast City Council, Roads Service, Belfast Harbour and Translink. Lord Mayor Niall O’Donnaghaile said ‘This is an invaluable project which will greatly enhance access to the Titanic Quarter for the people of east Belfast, and beyond, whether they are going to work there, visit the new Titanic Belfast centre or study here at Belfast Met.’
prIncE’s trust cAn gEt you stArtEd
The Prince’s Trust runs new short courses called Get Started that can help you move forward. For unemployed 16-25 year olds you get an intensive week or 8 days of activities run by professional tutors. GS with Digital Media takes place in Belfast. Taster: 13th March. Start: 20th March. Graduation: 29th March. Have a great business idea but aren’t sure how to make it happen? The Prince’s Trust Enterprise Programme supports young people who have a business idea they want help to explore are aged 18-30 and are unemployed or working less than 16 hours a week. 12 – 15th March and 23rd – 26th April 2012 at The Prince’s Trust Belfast Office 10 – 4pm, Block 5 Jennymount Court, North Derby Street Belfast BT15 3HN. to find out more please call 028 9074 5454.
27 NOT OUT!
‘Just for You’, the longest established gift and greetings card shop on the Belmont Road will be celebrating their 27th Anniversary in July of this year! They have always been known as a card specialist, but since Ann Russell took over the business in 2002, she has expanded the gifts range to include brand names such as Pilgrim, One Button, Esprit, Shamballa, Caroline Gardner, Cath Kidston, Willowtree, Bridgewater, Lily-Flame, Bomb Cosmetics, Shaeffer and many others. A further very successful addition to their portfolio of products, Just Party, was launched during September of 2011 on the 1st Floor. They offer a comprehensive range of helium balloons together with banners and other party accessories. Lisa and Lynsey are trained in balloon design and can prepare a variety of table displays to suit your particular chosen theme for weddings, hen parties, retirement celebrations, birthdays and fittingly this month, Mothers Day. Just for you & Just party at 13 Belmont road. phone 028 9065 7228. 8 www.bloommagazine.co.uk
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Airport transfers and group travel Totally local, Totally reliable, Wi-Fi onboard to Book just call:
028 9070 5525 or 077 9102 5778
Belfast Photographic Tours also operate airport transfers for groups of up to 14 people. Please call to arrange your airport transfer now.
Tel: +44 (0)28 9070 5525 | Mob: +44 (0)77 9102 5778 Email: info@belfastphototours.co.uk Social:
www.belfastphototours.co.uk
Mother’s Day Memories: Personalised Plates from just £9.50 each Baked in Belfast 122 Orby Drive, Belfast, BT5 6BB Tel 02890 798445 www.bakedinbelfast.com
thE BElFAst chIldrEn’s FEstIVAl Is BAcK!
The 14th Belfast Children’s Festival, run by Young at Art, returns with a week long programme of events for children aged 0-14. With a new theme of ‘Escape’, the festival encompasses children’s theatre, music, dance, visual art and literature. Director of Young at Art, Ali FitzGibbon says: ‘The programme this year is bursting with great theatre and dance from Germany and France; a special all-island showcase of theatre talent; workshops for older children in digital and sonic arts; exhibitions, literature and free workshops. We’re inviting you to escape into imaginative worlds and journey with artists and performers to a world where a bicycle can be a horse, an entire story can be told with just one word, where cities are made of cardboard, a kitchen disappears in the blink of an eye and where children can be giants.’ Nick Livingston, Director of Strategic Development, from the Arts Council of Northern Ireland, commented: ‘If anyone needed further proof of the benefits of the arts to children, or the sheer pleasure they derive from engaging in the arts, all you need do is come along and sample some of the brilliant and captivating performances taking place as part of the festival.’ Friday 9 March – Friday 16 March 2012. Ticket prices are £5 or lower for most performances. Discounted tickets for schools and groups are available. to find out more about festival events visit the website www.belfastchildrensfestival.com
Art of the ordinary
Professional photographer Heather Coulter sees the launch of her exciting new solo exhibition ‘Art of the Ordinary’ which takes place in Cafe Smart on Belmont Road. The exhibition depicts the characters, work and buildings of the immediate area extending into the Titanic Quarter and is the result of a project instigated by Heather to look at the things we take for granted in our locality with fresh vitality and highlight the sometimes overlooked.This exhibition is definitely worth viewing and in effect is..... anything but ordinary. Exhibition continues until 10 March 2012 at Cafe Smart Gallery, 56 Belmont Road. For further information contact iconicdesign@ymail.com www.iconicdesignphotography.com
Mother’s Day Blooms
Mother’s Day is a special day for the whole family. If ever you needed an excuse to make a fuss of Mum, this is the day. A little creativity and thoughtfulness goes a long way and someone who knows how to help are Belfast Blooms. ‘We at Belfast Blooms believe that every mum is special and no matter what the budget, we do our utmost to take care of our clients from the largest detail, down to the smallest. We know we do this well, as we have been thanked numerous times for our attention to detail on many occasions. We listen (which is most important) and discuss how we can help to give exactly what will make your Mother’s Day extra special. We are happy to use our expertise and flair to help you to create the ‘Wow’ factor. From the quality of our flowers, to the quality of the customer service given, we have faith that you will be happy with each aspect you entrust us with.’ Should you wish to arrange a free consultation contact 028 9045 0650 or visit www.Belfastblooms.co.uk. 10 www.bloommagazine.co.uk
Belfast Blooms F L O R A L A R T
HANDCRAFTED IN BELFAST DELIVERED WITH PRIDE
Community Weight Loss Challenge Are you serious about losing weight? Join the 12 week challenge TODAY!
BIGGEST LOSER WINS £300!* 2nd Place £200*; 3rd Place £100*
• • • • • •
Private Weekly Weigh & Measure Weight Loss Coaching Fun & Friendship Nutrition Education Support & Community Weekly Prizes & Rewards
Only £39 for the full 12 weeks
New challenges starting: Wednesday 28th March at 8-9pm at 104 Loopland Drive. Tel Gulnaz 07966 769551. ALSO Thurs 29th March 6.30-7.30pm at Dee St Community Centre. Tel: Ryan 07541 185537. * Prizes based on 30 participants - class limited to 40.
Would you like to earn an extra income? We are currently recruiting and training Arriba! Leaders. Only looking for 10 individuals! Just call either of the above numbers.
CHILDRENS PORTIONS AVAILABLE ENJOY YOUR MEAL
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK SPECIAL OFFER! for MARCH ONLY: 20% OFF
FF L E S U R T COFFEE SHOP 63 BELMONT ROAD Tel: 028 9047 1405 Monday - Saturday 9am-3.45pm Sunday 9.30am-2.30pm
SIT IN OR TAKE AWAY
I Slimming World because..
Join a warm and fri MONDAY Ravenhill Road
Ulster Temple 276 Ravenhill Road at 5.30pm & 7.30pm Tel: Claire 07981 424926
Dundonald
Dundonald Methodist Church Islay Gardens (Off Rank Road) *New Consultant* at 7.30pm Tel: Eleanor 07891 609161
Mountpottinger
Mountpottinger Methodist Church 188 Albertbridge Road Belfast at 5.30pm & 7.30pm *New Morning Group* at 9.30am & 11.30am Tel: Michelle 07857 131766
Orangefield
Orangefield Primary School Cameronian Drive at 7.30pm Tel: Deborah 07708 373567
Rosetta
Knockbreda Methodist Church 60-66 Rosetta Road at 5.15pm & 7.15pm Tel: Ann 07889 256259
0844 897
www.slimming
iendly group near you today... TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
Woodstock
Four Winds
Holywood Road
Gilnahirk
Stormont
Bloomfield
Castlereagh
Ormeau Road
Albertbridge Congregational Church (Off Woodstock Link) at 7.30pm Tel: Avril 07854 168350
Inverary Community Centre Inverary Avenue at 7.30pm Tel: Lynne 07876 354190
*New Venue* The Pavillion, Stormont Estate at 5.30pm & 7.30pm *New Morning Group* Tuesday at 10am (Entrance via Stoney Road) Tel: Traci 07576 986231
BMC Castlereagh Campus 16 Montgomery Road at 5.15 & 7.15pm Tel: Clare 07833 398315
Four Winds Restaurant 111 Newton Park at 7.30pm Tel: Lana 07704 075833
Gilnahirk Primary School Gilnahirk Road at 5.30pm and 7.30pm Tel: Ashleigh 07731 420680
Bloomfield Presbyterian Church 447 Beersbridge Road Junction off Cyprus Avenue at 3.30pm. 5.30pm & 7.30pm Tel: Deborah 07708 373567
Ballynafeigh Methodist Church Florenceville Drive at 5.30pm & 7.30pm Tel: Clare Louise 07798 863090
Newtownards
CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE...
7 8000
gworld.com
St Marks Parich Centre Church Street at 5.15pm & 7.15pm Tel: Ann 07889 256259
I
Slimming World Jo in
a wa
rm an
because..
d f r ie nd
WEDNESDAY Ballygowan
Alexander Dickson Primary Comber Road at 5.30pm & 7.30pm Tel: Avril 07854 168350
Knocknagoney
Church of Ireland, Asian Centre 13A Knocknagoney Rd at 5.30pm & 7.30pm Tel: Michelle 07553 745301
THURSDAY
Dundonald Moat Park Moat Bowling Pavillion Comber Road at 5.30pm & 7.30pm Tel: Michelle 07553 745301
Comber
Comber Rifle Club Railway Street at 5.30pm & 7.30pm *Morning Group* at 9.30am & 11.30am Tel: Eleanor 07891 609161
ly group near you today...
Holywood
Holywood CFC Community Hall, 65 Church View (Alternative entrance 108 High St beside Yard Coffee Gallery) at 5.30pm & 7.30pm Tel: Sally 07738 713436
SATURDAY
Ravenhill Road
*New Morning Group* Ulster Temple 276 Ravenhill Road at 10am Tel: Clare 07981 424926
Slimming World Careers
Fantastic career opportunities are available for existing and previous Slimming World members. For further details, please contact your local Team Developer, Eleanor on 07891 609161 or email: eleanorsw@gmail.com or log onto our website at www.slimmingworld.com
0844 897 8000 www.slimmingworld.com
FAKING IT! Have you ever wondered how Cheryl Cole has fabulous long, thick hair or how Victoria Beckham has lashes to die for? They Fake It! You to can look and feel great with a little help and without breaking the bank balance...
Health & Beauty
BOTOX
Celeb’s such as Kim Kardashian, Amanda Holden, Gweneth Paltrow have admitted they use botox to achieve their flawless look. Anti wrinkle injections are commonly used to treat areas in the upper part of the face. It is non surgical and takes very little healing time. 1 area - £99, 2 areas - £169, 3 areas - £199. American Pride – Beauty Hair Produce Loving this seasons hair trends? American Pride 18” clip in extensions create the perfect glam Hollywood look. American Pride full head easy extensions are so easy to put in that you can do it yourself – contact The Secret Day Spa for a colour match.
To achieve the perfect smile: Teeth whitening kits make sure your smile never fades. Easy to use and affordable teeth whitening kits are a must have for any fashionista! *Smile White home kit £30
Health & Beauty
Welcome to The Secret Day Spa beauty page. Keeping the good people of East Belfast looking gorgeous & feeling fantastic!
Tan
No party or holiday outfit is complete without the perfect tan. Preparation is key to this look. Exfoliating and moisturising are essential beauty routines to keep your skin in tip top condition and ready for the tan to be applied.
Semi permanent make up for eyebrows, eyeliner, lip colour, perfect for ladies who want immaculate make up 24 hours a day. This is an easy procedure that only takes 1 hour including full consultations. As well as defining your features and being able to wake up & look your best 24/7 – semi permanent make-up can be used for medical tattooing after breast reconstruction or to cover burns and skin grafts. With semi - permanent make up, you can look your best, morning, noon and night.
• You can look and feel great without spending hours in front of the mirror every day. • Subtle to defined, understated to glamorous -there are lots of treatment options • Results can last years (although you will need to keep your colours topped-up) The Secret Day Spa, 30 Belmont Road, Belfast. Tel: 028 9067 1914. www.bloommagazine.co.uk 15
This Season’s Catwalk Collection
With Belfast Fashion Week around the corner, we check out what East Belfast boutiques have in store this season... Must have footwear for everyday look...
ek n We ashio ch F t s Belfa 18th Mar k.com 14wee belfa
hion stfas
Rich Rags
‘Designer labels without the designer prices’, Rich Rags opened in Bloomfield in 1986 and is now recognised as one of Belfast’s leading designer clothes agencies specialising in the buying and selling of high quality, contemporary, new and second hand women’s clothes and jewellery. The boutique stocks an eclectic mix of new and nearly new labels that will delight today’s savvy fashion forward individual! ‘We have built a loyal clientele over the years who use Rich Rags service to sell their clothes on a 1/3rd percentage whilst many take 50%. I am looking for girls to have a good look in your wardrobe and see what was not worn last season and see if we can turn it into cash for you! Too big or small or the handbag that was too heavy on your arm, we have the clients waiting ready to purchase. Many items are dropped off daily from girls that have too many clothes, from shops, wholesalers and samples – usually from past – current season... all with a much cheaper price tag!’ 88 Bloomfield Road. 028 9047 1418 16 www.bloommagazine.co.uk
‘This season it’s all about femininity, versatility & wearability. SPLASH shoe shop focuses on the two major trends for the new season: ‘Pure Ethnic’ & ‘Passion Colour’. The resulting collection is an explosion of bright colours on one hand and a mixture of woven looks and natural leathers on the other. Expect to see a new palette of colours for your summer footwear WALK THE WAY OF LOVE !* with bright fuschia, turquoise and reds on offer. The emphasis is on block heels, wedges and clogs. Soles are made of cork, wood and rafia. Think strappy sandals made from natural materials in an explosion of colours and you won’t be too far off!’ 111, Bloomfield Avenue. Phone 028 9045 7226. 11 / 11
- www.agenceadhoc.com Photo Alain Monéger - Stylisme Pénélope de Kilmaine - boutique Bleu Marine Cholet. * Marcher sur le chemin de l’amour
John Morrison on this seasons hair trends:
'This image by Christel Lundqvist, British Hairdressing Awards Colour Technician of the Year, captures this seasons must have tones and shape. Soft pastel tones over perfectly pristine blonde hair, complementing beautifully with this seasons return to a softer, feminine but slightly minimalist silhouette. The haircuts are strong and slightly more defined but not as geometric as autumn/winter and the styling is delicate, textured but definitely not messy. For longer hair it's all about movement, but not big hair as has been the case for two or three years now. The look is smoother at the root with a more defined curl through mid-lengths and ends, giving more of a high fashion/catwalk feel or the now famous (done-undone) look. A more edgy but very low maintenance look is the dip-dye or to give it it's technical name, balayage high-lights or Ombre hair. The most famous protagonists of this look being Alexa Chung and the Olsen twins. One of the main features of any of these looks is the hair is always in premium condition, by visiting the salon and having a thorough and in-depth consultation with your stylist and colour technician. Do not under any circumstances atempt home colouring!’ JL Morrison Hairdressing, 67 Belmont Road. Phone 028 9065 0505.
Funky Fashion for those little ones...
Many of you will know Funky Living for their fabulous kids furniture and bedrooms accessories, but did you know they have a great range of clothing from birth to age 5? Their spring /summer ranges feature the exquisite Emile et Rose, to the funky Lilly and Sid. ‘Both of these brands are great quality at good prices, and will have everyone admiring your little angel’s fashion sense! Hatley is another great brand which covers everything from their famous raincoats and wellies to co-ordinating play wear and PJs. Think ladybirds, flowers, whales and surfers! If you’re looking for organic cotton they have that too – and not just in neutral creams and beiges – Toby Tiger rompers and hats offer a rainbow of colour, and are not just great to look at but great for baby’s skin. Of course we have new stock across all the other departments in the store, including the new homewares and gift section on the ground floor. To celebrate our 5th birthday we are launching a new website – become a fan on our facebook page and you will be kept up to date with news on this, along with news on our birthday celebrations, new stock and special offers!’ Pictured from the Hatley range; Raincoats £30, Wellies £19.99. Unit 5, 39-53 Bloomfield Avenue. Phone 028 9045 4959.
This top above available from Silhouette is an organic cotton reversible tunic so effectively two for the price of one. £45. Also available in raspberry and blue. 75 Belmont Road. Phone 028 9065 2428.
Tori from The White Bicylcle is delighted to announce the new ecommerce website,www.toriswardrobe.com launching in early March. ‘Not only will we have stock from our main store, The White Bicycle on Bloomfield Avenue, we have also brought in some new ranges dedicated to our online customers. I have some great new brands for instore and the website arriving daily, one of them being the Olivia Rubin collection which I absolutely love! Nothing compares with the personal service instore but sometimes online is just too handy… I have a few customers in Manchester and Edinburgh who I regularly pick stock for and send at the beginning of each season. It’s usually right but it will be great for them to be able to browse everything we have instore instead of just what I think they should be wearing. And so our online customers don’t feel left out, there will also be an advice section for the current trends and the must have outfits! As the name suggests, I do look on our new website as an extension of my own wardrobe, my must have pieces for the season, the key trends and mixing the new with what we all already have from previous seasons. This is where our advice section will be there to help. Clients will be able to email our expert ‘Tori’ with questions and ‘Tori’ will reply with her help and advice... For example, how to update last seasons 70’s inspired trends with this seasons key lace or print pieces. It simply means that our expert personal service is there if people want it. As a welcome gift to all customers who sign up to our website newsletter, they will receive a discount code for 15% off all orders over £75.’ www.toriswardrobe.com www.facebook.com/ thewhitebicycle www.twitter.com/thewhitebicycle www.bloommagazine.co.uk 17
Elaine Peel on how to plan ahead...
‘The secret of stylish dressing is to learn what shapes, fabrics and colours best flatter your figure, skin tone and your life-style. The next step is to experiment with new Lesley Manor 805, Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7GX. looks which are not a major departure from your comfort T: 028 9068 7050 zone but which might give your wardrobe a slightly more modern edge. The collections I have sourced have been done with budget and price point at the Just A little Preview o forefront of my mind. Many of the designers and manufacturers have worked hard to keep prices at the same level as last season and in some instances lower despite the rising costs in raw materials. We think the following will help you decide what might be worth having this spring: Lesley Manor 805, Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7GX. T: 028 9068 7050
107 Bloomfield Avenue, Belfast, BT5 5AB T/F: 028 9045 2665 F: 028 9087 2491 E: elaine.peel@ntlworld.com
Just A little Preview of A few of this seAson’s Must hAves At Peel And MArc cAin
The Jacket: Jackets can be roughly divided onto three categories. • The over-sized boyfriend jacket (think Lauren Bacall) is still very `in` and is easy for most women to wear because it is not dependent on precise tailoring so it doesn’t matter whether or not you have a waist or indeed what height you are. Good examples of these jackets are available from MarcCain or choose a silk or linen-mix version from Stills (all well priced). • The second jacket is more fitted, shorter and often quite quirky, find it in ranges such as Jucca, Hoss, Moschino, a lovely little checked version from MarcCain and of course the ultimate in edginess from Girbaud. The good thing about all our jackets is they can be worn casually as well as in a more formal way so you don`t have to be a working woman to wear them. • Needless to say MarcCain, Creenstone, Sulu, Tomo, Annette Gortz and indeed Hoss have also provided the sportier casual throw over everything jacket, much needed in our rainy climate. Marc Cain Marc Cain
Moschino Cheap and Chic
Marc Cain
Marc Cain
Moschin
Prints and Colour Palette: Explosions of colour and print (especially python, flowers, fruits
and colour blocking). Corals, bright orange, nautical navy and whites are all very now! If you’re wary of too much colour introduce it in a belt, bag or scarf. Add a flash of red or orange with monochrome black and white to give it a fresh, modern look without spending a fortune. Stars and stripes inspired by Chanel are a must; see the MarcCain Sports collection for best examples of this look. Moschino Cheap and Chic & Citizens Jeans
Moschino Cheap and Chic & Citizens Jeans
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sAle shoP hAs re-oPened on 111 blooMfield Avenue, oPen every sAturdAy 10-5PM until further notice. www.PeelfAshionstore.coM find us on facebook
Trousers: Anything goes! There are a huge variety of shapes from skinny jeans from Citizens of Humanity including the uber trendy flowery jeans (featured in Grazia as the favourite must have summer jeans) to wide flowing palazzo styles from MarcCain and Girbaud. Sulu, Tomo and Ischiko have a truly fab collection of both cut-off and full length trousers for the larger woman who understands that larger doesn`t mean compromising on style.’ BELFAST RETAILERS CELEBRATION OF INDEPENDENCE
Belfast retailers will celebrate their very own ‘IndependentsDay’ on 5 March as part of Belfast City Council’s Independent Retail Week - when they put on a FREE fashion show and exhibition in the City Hall. The Celebrate Independent Fashion Show takes place between 12.30pm and 1.30pm in the Great Hall of the City Hall. The event will have something for everyone as a selection of independent stores from right across the city set out their stalls making the event feel more like an indoor market. Alderman Christopher Stalford, Chairman of Belfast City Council’s Development Committee said: ‘This flagship event is a fun and visual way to highlight the contribution of fashion and beauty independents available across the city. However, Belfast Independent Retail Week is about all the independent stores, hardware, home, craft and food that make Belfast such a satisfying place in which to live, work or visit. The pop-up shops are forward thinking and a really useful way of allowing even more fashion beauty and craft stores to show their wares.’ Pictured at the launch; Chair of Ballyhackamore Business Association Brenda Shankey. Tickets for this lunchtime event are free and are available from the Belfast Welcome Centre Box Office on 028 9024 6609. 18 www.bloommagazine.co.uk
Moschino Cheap and Chic & Citizens Jeans
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• Ulster Property Sales won awards in the category of Best Real
Estate Agency and Best Lettings Agency at the prestigious UK Property Awards in association with Google and Bloomberg Television. So with the market improving and more houses selling, contact the award winning Ballyhackamore branch today!
•With a range of local experience, knowledge of the area and property to appeal to all, whether you are selling, buying or renting, UPS Ballyhackamore can supply you with all the support and advice you need. For a free no obligation valuation please contact us at the address below: Ballyhackamore Branch 324 Upper Newtownards Rd Belfast BT4 3EX Phone 028 9047 1515. Cavehill 028 9072 9270 • Forestside 028 9064 1264 • Malone 028 9066 1929 • Andersonstown 028 9060 5200 • Glengormley 028 9083 3295 • Ballymena 028 2565 7700 • Bangor 028 9127 1185 • Carrickfergus 028 9336 5986 • Downpatrick 028 4461 4101 • Rentals 028 9045 3020
Bloom :Rising Star
RisingStar
‘Bringing Lost Furniture Back to Life’ J
enny Bond Interiors takes well loved furniture and transforms it into a contemporary piece of furniture art for the modern home. She has always had a passion for interior design, and loves eclectic furniture that tells a story. Working as an Interior Designer for 10 years, whilst studying furniture design and making, led her to convert her passions into a new part-time business adventure. ‘If furniture could talk, think of the stories it could tell, the things it would see, the conversations it would hear. Most of the furniture made today will be outlived by that made over 60 years ago. I’ve always had a passion for interiors and furniture, which probably stemmed from decorating my dolls house when I was seven! I began Jenny Bond Interiors over two years ago. I had been collecting old pieces of furniture for a number of years with the intention of refurbishing them for my own house. The problem was that I could have probably filled three houses with what I had so I decided to set up a business re-styling vintage and retro furniture.’ Jenny also works full time as an Interior Designer in Lyles on the Lisburn Road so the business takes up most of her free time plus she promotes her work through unique events in Belfast along with other similarly creative 22 www.bloommagazine.co.uk
minds. ‘I am a regular stall holder at the Frock Around the Clock Vintage Fairs which are held in the Holiday Inn, Ormeau Avenue. The fairs have a huge selection of vintage and up-cycled clothes, jewellery and homewares. It’s a great place to showcase my vintage and retro items and the organisers also have a Retro Rooms Show which is solely for vintage Interior products.’ So what is Jenny’s secret to keeping her collection fresh and individual? ‘I try to make each piece I do totally different to the last, so that way my customers always get something unique. I have also completed a few commission pieces for individuals and for wedding gifts. I love using unusual colour combinations and putting together things that people would never think about creating. Using specially sourced materials I re-create my individual pieces with vibrant paints and luxury fabrics. I also hate to see waste, and enjoy giving the furniture a second life, so it can continue to tell a story in years to come.’
Phone 07734 887249 www.jennybondinteriors.co.uk www.facebook.com/pages/Jenny-BondInteriors/311066254849
Loop the Loop! The Big Book of Soups by Beverly Le Blanc gives you everything you need to create simmering stockpots of delicious goodness in your own kitchen. Here you’ll find international flavours with tried and tested recipes and we’ve selected just a handful of the 365 in the book. Beverly Le Blanc was the food editor of the UK edition of the Reader’s Digest and is the author of 10 cookery books. She is a regular contributor of recipes to a whole range of magazines and newspaper supplements including Bella and the Sunday Telegraph.
Images From The Big Book of Soups by Beverly Le Blanc © Commissioned Photography by Duncan Baird Publisher 2011
Orzo Primavera
Preparation Time 15 minutes
1.4l vegetable stock 1 bouquet garni made with 1 celery stick with its leaves, 1 rosemary sprig and several parsley and thyme sprigs tied 1 young carrot, diced 1 young turnip, peeled and diced 100g/31/2oz/heaped 1/2 cup orzo 80g/23/4oz chopped green beans 80g/23/4oz/1/2 cup frozen peas 1 tsp grated lemon zest 2 tbsp chopped parsley leaves salt and freshly ground black pepper 1 Put the stock and bouquet garni in a saucepan over a high heat and season with salt and pepper. Cover and bring to the boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes. 2 Return the stock to the boil, add the carrot and turnip and boil for 2 minutes. Stir in the orzo and boil for 11 minutes, then add the green beans and peas and boil for 4–6 minutes until the orzo and vegetables are tender. Discard the bouquet garni. Stir in the lemon zest and adjust the salt and pepper, if necessary. Stir in the parsley and serve.
Roasted Squash & Tomato
Preparation Time 15 mintes
3 large tomatoes, halved 600g/1lb 5oz butternut squash 24 www.bloommagazine.co.uk
Roasted Squash &Tomato 6 large whole garlic cloves, peeled 1 red onion, quartered 1cm/1/2in piece of root ginger, peeled and thinly sliced 21/2 tbsp olive or hemp oil 1/2 tsp ground coriander 1/2 tsp ground cumin 1/2 tsp hot paprika, or to taste 750ml/26fl oz/3 cups veg stock salt and freshly ground pepper chopped parsley leaves, to serve
tray, along with the garlic, onion and ginger. Add the oil, coriander, cumin and paprika and season with salt and pepper. Toss well to coat, then roast for 20 minutes, stirring once or twice, until the squash and onion are tender and the tomato skins have burst. 2 Meanwhile, put several layers of kitchen paper on a plate and set aside. Rinse the squash seeds well and use your fingers to remove the fibres, then pat dry with kitchen paper. Heat a thin layer of the oil in a frying pan over a high heat. Add the seeds and stir for 30 seconds–1 1 Preheat the oven to minute until they start to pop 220°C/425°F/gas 7. Put the and turn golden brown. Watch tomatoes, cut-sides down in closely so they do not burn. a baking tray. Cut the squash Immediately turn them out in half, scoop out the seeds of the pan onto the prepared and set them aside. Coarsely plate and set aside. chop the squash into 5cm/2in 3 Transfer the vegetables pieces – there’s no need to peel from the baking tray to a large it – and add it to the baking heatproof bowl or blender and
add half the stock. Blend until smooth. Working in batches, strain the soup into a saucepan and work it through the sieve, rubbing back and forth with a spoon and scraping the bottom of the sieve. Stir in enough of the remaining stock to achieve the preferred consistency and reheat. (Any leftover stock can be used in other recipes) Adjust the salt and pepper, if necessary, then serve, sprinkled with the seeds and parsley.
chopped and 1 sliced 3 celery sticks 3 large leeks, 2 thickly sliced and 1 thinly sliced, all rinsed and kept separate 1 bouquet garni made with 2 bay leaves and several parsley and rosemary sprigs tied together 350g/12oz floury potatoes, peeled and chopped salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 Put the lamb and 1.25l/44fl oz/5 cups water in a saucepan. Cover and bring to the boil. Skim, then add the garlic, Preparation Time 15 minutes chopped carrots, celery, thickly sliced leeks and bouquet garni. 600g/1lb 5oz boneless Season with salt and pepper, shoulder then reduce the heat and of lamb, in one piece, simmer, covered, for 1 hour. trimmed 2 Strain the stock and discard 4 large garlic cloves, the vegetables and bouquet crushed garni. Return the lamb and 3 carrots, 2 coarsely stock to the pan, then skim
Welsh Mountain Lamb & Leek
Welsh Mountain Lamb & Leek.
the fat from the surface. Add the sliced carrots, thinly sliced leeks and potatoes. Cover and bring to the boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30–45 minutes until the meat is meltingly tender and the potatoes are falling apart. Skim again, if necessary, then remove the lamb and set aside until cool enough to handle. 3 Cut the lamb into bite-sized pieces, return it to the soup and reheat. Adjust the salt and pepper.
North Sea Haddock & Pea
Preparation Time 15 minutes
750ml/26fl oz/3 cups Fish Stock 400ml/14fl oz/scant 12⠄3 cups double cream 2 large garlic cloves, finely chopped 1 bay leaf finely grated zest of 1/2 lemon a pinch of ground cardamom 400g/14oz haddock fillet 200g/7oz/11/4 cups frozen peas salt and freshly ground black pepper smoked paprika, to serve 1 Put the stock, cream, garlic, bay leaf, lemon zest and cardamom in a saucepan and season. Cover and bring to the boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes. 2 Calculate the haddock’s cooking time at 10 minutes per 2.5cm/1in of thickness. Add the haddock and simmer, www.bloommagazine.co.uk 25
North Sea Haddock & Pea. covered, for the calculated time until it is cooked through and flakes easily. Five minutes before the end of the calculated cooking time, add the peas and simmer, uncovered. Remove the haddock and set aside until cool enough to handle. Discard the bay leaf. 3 Bring to the boil for 1–2 minutes until the peas are very soft. Use a slotted spoon to transfer half the peas to a bowl. Blend the soup until smooth, and rub it through a sieve, Return the peas to the pan. Remove the skin and any small bones from the fish and flake it into large pieces into the soup. Reheat and adjust the seasoning and sprinkle with paprika.
Cream of Chicken with Taragon & Lemon Preparation Time 15 minutes 24 www.bloommagazine.co.uk
C WrietahmToafraCghoicken n& 1l/35fl oz/4 cups chicken stock 500g/1lb 2oz skinless chicken thighs 4 tarragon sprigs, plus extra leaves, chopped, to serve 1 bay leaf 1 leek, chopped and rinsed 30g/1oz butter 1 tbsp sunflower oil 2 shallots, finely chopped 4 tbsp plain white flour 125ml/4fl oz/1/2 cup double cream finely grated zest of 1 lemon salt and ground white pepper 1 Put the stock and chicken in a saucepan and season with salt and white pepper. Cover and bring to the boil, then skim. Add the tarragon, bay leaf and leek, reduce the heat and simmer, covered, for 10– 15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the juices
Lemon
run clear when you cut a piece. Remove the chicken from the stock and set aside until cool enough to handle. Strain the stock and set aside. 2 Melt the butter with the oil in another saucepan. Add the shallots and fry, stirring occasionally, for 3–5 minutes until softened but not coloured. Sprinkle in the flour and stir for 2 minutes, then slowly add the stock, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Leave to simmer while you prepare the chicken. 3 Cut the chicken from the bones into thin pieces and return it to the soup. Stir in the cream and lemon zest and reheat. Serve sprinkled with tarragon.
Extracted from The Big Book of Soups by Beverly Le Blanc text © (2011), published by Duncan Baird Publishers, London Paperback £12.99
Offering People A Lifeline We provide a free community based service to anyone in Northern Ireland. We Offer: Counselling (Emotional support) Bereavement, Debt, Relationships, Trauma, Depression, Suicide Intervention Befriending and Mentoring (Practical support) Housing, Debt, Advice, Guidance, Isolation, Confidence building, Addictions, Depression
Where we are: Opal, 80 Bloomfield Avenue, Belfast BT5 5AE Telephone: 028 9045 6700
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bloom bloom bloom bloom Magazine Magazine Magazine Magazine Food and cookery ranging from easy peasy inspiration to recipes to local restaurant reviews.
What’s going in your own neighbourhood from mums and tots groups to entertainment.
A warm and festive welcome to East Belfast’s brand new communit y magazine!
Issue 3: February 2012
Issue 2: January 2012
Issue 1: December 2011
The very latest news from the community delivered to your letterbox for free every month.
The very latest news from the community delivered to your letterbox for free every month.
Food and cookery ranging from easy peasy inspiration to recipes to local restaurant reviews.
What’s going on in your own neighbourhood, health, beauty, local legends and much more.
East Belfast is in the depths of winter, so come on in and warm yourself...
The very latest news from the community delivered to your letterbox for free every month.
Food and cookery ranging from easy peasy inspiration to recipes to local restaurant reviews.
What’s going on in your own neighbourhood, health, beauty, local legends and much more.
Issue 4: March 2012
The very latest news from the community delivered to your letterbox for free every month.
Food and cookery ranging from easy peasy inspiration to recipes to local restaurant reviews.
Goodbye winter.. Hello spring!
What’s going on in your own neighbourhood, health, beauty, local legends and much more.
Love is in the air!
Reach the people of East Belfast directly every month. To find our how and for a copy of our media pack, contact Angela: angela@bloommagazine.co.uk Tel: 07719 104862
Food Focus
Bloom :Food Focus
Fresh, local, home cooked nosh Ian Henderson had an idea for a restaurant in East Belfast. When the ideal venue came up, it seemed No 36 was simply meant to be.
N
o.36 had been an idea I wanted to pursue for some years,’ says Ian. ‘I had a good idea of what the business would offer and how it should look. Luck was on my side when the shop premises came up on Belmont Road. I knew instantly that this was ‘it’!’ High ceilings, large windows and relaxing space confirmed that this would be Ians. He has been working in the hospitality industry since he was a child, firstly sorting bottles in his father’s pub for pocket money. Since then he has worked in successful businesses that have given him a wide understanding of the industry, customer satisfaction and the ability to learn the essential skills on how to run a business. ‘I was inspired to open No.36 as I wanted to offer what I would want to be offered; home cooked meats, preserves, baked goods, classic comfort food with a modern approach in an environment that is relaxing, friendly and with staff that are always pleased to see you. We also offer a retail section selling our home made preserves and chutneys, truffles, shortbread. No.36 is a place where I can roll out my ideas and basically live the dream. Our motto is – fresh, local, home cooked nosh. Fresh ingredients sourced locally and cooked on the premises using recipes I have developed or borrowed over the years.’ Morning favourites of the menu are the increasingly popular blueberry pancakes, French toast, fresh homebaked scones served with 28 www.bloommagazine.co.uk
homemade jam and of course the No.36 fry. At lunchtime, the chicken and ham pie always sells very quickly along with risotto and pasta bake.‘Soups and sandwiches always go down a storm,’ says Ian. My personal favourite is Thai chicken with coconut and lemongrass soup and home roast silverside with horseradish, No.36 caramelised onion chutney and rocket. The very berry almond slice and cookies and cream fudge brownie always fly out in the afternoon, great with a nice cappuccino or Kokoa hot chocolate topped with chilli sugar.’ The art work on display is for sale and is by Ian’s personal friend and local artist, Michael Hudson who has had a numerous sell out exhibitions. So with the interior, the dishes and the atmosphere fast becoming a firm favourite, Ian’s quest is continuing to grow and it’s certainly a family affair. ‘I had a huge amount of help from family members while setting up No.36, my sister and her husband helped me throughout from fitting out the shop, making sure we opened on time. With this help and ongoing support it makes the business family run which fits in nicely with the businesses ethos. I wanted a homely environment and I think we have achieved that.’ 36 Belmont Road, Belfast, BT4 2AN. Phone 028 9065 7476.
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Whats On
Plan your time with our handy guide..
TODDLER GROUPS
MONDAYS Sydenham Parent & Toddler Group Mon 10-11.30 £1 per family Tea/coffee/juice/toast. Invarery Community Centre BT4 1RN Tel: 028 9047 1456 St Finnians 10-11.30 Cregagh Park BT6 9LF 028 9079 2793. Wandsworth Mums & Chums Group 10-11.45am Wandsworth Community Centre, 26a Belmont Church Road BT4 3FF Cost £1 per family. Calvary Baptist Mums and Toddlers. 10.30-12.00am 100 Dee Street BT4 028 9073 2331 £1 per Family.
TUESDAYS Mersey Street Presbyterian Parents & Toddlers 10-11.45am term time Mersey Street Presbyterian Church BT1 1EX Tel: 028 90 657025 aburcombe@gmail.com www.merseystreet.org.uk £1 donation Strandtown Baptist Tots 10.15- 11.45am (term time) Strandtown Baptist Church, 1 Clonallon Court Belmont Road 30 www.bloommagazine.co.uk
BT4 2AB Tel: 028 9080 8380 £1 per adult
WEDNESDAYS Busy Bees 10 -11:30am Knock Methodist Church, Knock Road, BT5 6JA Tel: 07867 551366 jackie.blair@karrington.net smallTALK @ orangefield 10-11.45am Orangefield Church and Community, 464 Castlereagh Road BT5 6BH Tel: 07745076911 shajam38@yahoo.co.uk www.orangefield.org.uk Willowfield Mother and Toddler Group 10-12pm Woodstock Road BT6 8PR Tel: 028 9045 7654 office@willowfieldchurch.co.uk
THURSDAYS Cregagh Mums & Tots 10-12pm Cregagh Community Centre Mount Merrion Avenue BT6 OFL Tel: 028 9040 1444 Knock Parent & Toddler Group 10-11.45am Knock Presbyterian Church 53 Kings Road BT5 6JH Tel: Pamela 07921 067927 or Gillian 07803 117619. office@knockpresbyterian.co.uk www.knockpresbyterian.co.uk
FRIDAYS Wandsworth Mums & Chums Group 12-1.45pm Wandsworth Community Centre, 26a Belmont Church Road BT4 3FF Tel: 07903 674698 alison_smith4@talk21.com www.wandsworthcommunity. ik.com £1 per family. Includes lunch. Tots ‘R’ Us 10.30am House of Worship 127a Orby Drive BT5 6BB Tel: 07791 776307/07980 984506 info@houseofworshipireland.com www.houseofworshipireland.com
EVENTS
MONDAY Wandsworth Community Centre 26A Belmont Church Road BT4 3FF 028 9065 1668 Seniors Club 12.15-1.30pm Zumba 6-7pm Aerobics 7-8pm Yoga 8.15-9.30pm
TUESDAY Belmont Tower www.belmont-tower.co.uk Childrens dance classes 4-7pm Zumba Classes 6-7.15pm Pregnancy Yoga Classes 7.30-8.30pm Wandsworth Community Centre 26A Belmont Church Road BT4 3FF 028 9065 1668
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•Hand made soaps •Bath bombs & potions •Designer umbrellas •Laser cut hearts, flowers, pagodas etc
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415-417 Newtownards Road BT4 1AQ Tel: 028 9073 1141
Get Your
Mother’s Day Card, Gift, & Balloons from Belmont Road’s longest established Card & Gift Shop ~ now also with ~ Party Shop on the 1st Floor •Wide Selection of Mothers Day Cards •Jewellery by ‘One Button’,‘Pilgrim’,‘Espree’ etc. (also Stackers) •New Spring Range ‘One Button’ scarves from £12.99 •Spring launch of ‘Willowtree’ figurines •New ‘Shamballa’ bracelets •‘Cath Kidston’ Mugs •‘Bomb Cosmetics’ •‘Caroline Gardner’ stationery •‘Mothers Day’ mugs •‘Bridgewater’ & ‘Lily-Flame’ Candles
On our first floor ‘Just Party’
Stocked with choice of Latex & Foil Helium Balloons, Banners, & Party Accessories ~ Staffed by trained Balloon designers ~ We prepare & can deliver your dining table balloon centre-pieces.
‘Just for You’ & ‘Just Party’
13 BELMONT ROAD, BT4 ~ MON - SAT 9.30-5.30pm TEL: 9065 7228
Whats On Childrens Irish dancing 4-6.30pm, Aerobics 7.15-8.15pm Tai Chi 8.15-9.30pm
WEDNESDAY Belmont Tower www.belmont-tower.co.uk Baby massage 10am-1pm Yoga with Eleanor 5.45-7.45pm 39th Old Boys 7-9pm Wandsworth Community Centre 26A Belmont Church Road BT4 3FF 028 9065 1668 Sewing Group 10am-12noon Flower Arranging 1.30-3.30pm, Yoga 7-8.30pm Enler Community Centre 9 Craigleigh Drive BT16 2QP Tel: 028 9048 0184 14th March A Titanic Movie Night. Admission £3/£2. Incl free gift. Dundonald Arts Club Stye Brae Hall Gilnahirk Presbyterian 7th March Bob Killen - Outreach Programme 7.30pm 21st March Sarah McNeill - Landscapes with acrylics & oils.
THURSDAY Belmont Tower www.belmont-tower.co.uk Art classes 10am-1pm Baby Sensory Clsses 7-13 mths Thurs 10-11am 0-7 mths Thurs 11.30-12.30 Yoga with Sharon 6.8pm Wandsworth Community Centre 26A Belmont Church Road BT4 3FF 028 9065 1668 LA Dance (kids Hip Hop) 5-6pm Aerobics 7-8pm Core Combat 8.30-10pm Tullycarnet Library Kings Road Tel: 028 9048 5079 32 www.bloommagazine.co.uk
Bloom :Whats On
stuart@bloommagazine.co.uk Tullycarnet Yarnspinners 15th March Feargal Lynn. 8pm
FRIDAY Belmont Tower www.belmont-tower.co.uk Belcanto School of Singing 10am-1pm Wandsworth Community Centre 26A Belmont Church Road BT4 3FF 028 9065 1668 Computers for beginners 10am 12noon and 1-3pm, Childrens Ju Jitsu 7-8pm Boxing 8.30-9.30pm Shiloh Hall 76 The Mount, BT5 4ND Coffee Morning 10:30-12 noon Free tea, coffee and homemade cakes available. All welcome. Toys, books and games for babies & toddlers while you sit and chat! Tel: 07725914458 churchofgodinbelfast@gmail.com Dundonald Arts Club Stye Brae Hall Gilnahirk Presbyterian Annual Dinner Castlereagh Civic Centre 1 Bradford Court, Upper Galwally 9th March 1pm Lunchtime Concert Linley Hamilton Quartet. £3/£2.
SATURDAY Wandsworth Community Centre 26A Belmont Church Road BT4 3FF 028 9065 1668 Jump Jiggle And Jive (Baby dance) 9.30-12.30, Childrens Art Classes 10am-11am and Ignite teens dance 1.30-4.30pm Belmont Road Belmont Road Traders are hosting a Spring Fair and family fun day on Saturday 24th March 12-4pm.
Easter activities and crafts, quiz and Easter egg hunt, music for young and older people, flowers, animals and street entertainers.
SUNDAY SD Bells 516 Upper Newtownards Road 028 9047 1774. www.sdbellsteacoffee.com Sunday Lunchtime Java Jive Jazz Brunch. 11-2.30pm 4th March Ivan Black 11th March Linley Hamilton Quartet 18th March FULLY BOOKED 25th March Janet Seidel Trio The Retro Rooms Show Holiday Inn, Ormeau Avenue Sunday 4th March 11am to 4.30pm. £5 adults/£3 seniors & students. Early Bird Admission for first half hour of the event (11 – 11.30am) giving £2 off.
EXHIBITIONS TITANICa:
The Exhibition at the Transport Museum
Explore as you discover why Titanic and her sister ships were built in Belfast. Discover how local enterprise and skills were combined to produce vessels of exceptional quality and design. Find out about life on board through fascinating objects and personal stories that explore the tragic loss of Titanic in 1912. T: 028 9042 8428 E: info@nmni.com W: www.nmni.com
If you have an event you would like the people of East Belfast to know about, send the details to: stuart@bloommagazine.co.uk
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Local Legend
The Perfect Roast
Celebrating 125 years in business, SD Bells is the epitome of the local legend. We speak to Robert Bell over a cuppa.
‘
M
y great grandfather Samuel David Bell set up the business in 1887,’ says Robert. ‘He was going to a be a minister and financed his studies by working in a hardware store in Ann Street. He ended up buying the business and went down that route instead. Soon the business branched into wholesaling of staples like tea, flour and sugar and then began roasting coffee from the turn of the century. The shop position in East Belfast came about when Samuel built some houses on what is the present Upper Newtownards Road site. SD lived in Wandsworth Villa, above the new suburban shop. The present coffee shop and roasting facility is actually where his garden used to be, which housed the Bell’s dray horses, used to transport Bell’s tea and coffee around the city. The tram terminus was just outside at the time so the trams would stop there. At this stage the family were already coffee dealers and after the Great War more and more people developed a taste for coffee as well as tea and Bell’s grew into the business it is today. However the history and tradition is still very much alive. Today Robert roasts almost all the coffee himself in a roaster that was built in 1933. ‘It’s artisan roasting which I do with my ears, eyes and nose to judge when its ready. That’s a skilled process, there are no electronics, you just judge it…not many people do it this way any more. You can’t have a bad thought when you’re roasting coffee. It’s like singing a song…all your senses are involved; you’re watching, listening and looking for a change in colour of smoke and in the bean, and its popcorn-like ‘1st crack’. On a bad day I roast some coffee and everything is good again! I’ve been doing this ten years myself, six years full time but ever since I was a kid I’ve been at this roaster one way or another.’ But of course tea is an equally important part of the SD Bell’s repertoire and with that they get the same hands on
34 www.bloommagazine.co.uk
Bloom :Local Legend
treatment. ‘All tea leaves vary in structure and flavour so we blend the leaves that we receive for our natural leaf blend to ensure the taste is consistent year on year regardless of harvests. We also do exotic loose teas from all over the world, and also buy teas in Kenya, and pack tea bags which go out to hotels, restaurants and retailers. We have this tiny business and it’s all run under one roof here in East Belfast so we have a busy coffee shop, retail outlet and all the wholesale for relatively low cost, and minimal management overheads. We can be agile when making changes to what we do. It’s a small business, sufficiently diverse that each business area contributes to the overall success without the need for high gearing.’ The coffee shop has gained a tremendous reputation over the years, growing from just six seats in the window to the present 120! There are regulars that come in every day of the week, or say every Friday, every month, but they come here for the quality and the ambience. In fact when a refurbishment was planned around five years ago, people were so passionate about not altering the booth seating, it’s pretty much the same layout. So what’s the secret to being here 125 years this year? ‘Not over-stretching ourselves. Our structure is strong but we have a regular cash flow. The coffee and tea branded products are our ‘crown jewels’; they give us our identity. The coffee shop gives it its life blood. My uncle Barry still works here every day. He’s been totally loyal to the business having been here 60 years and his knowledge of tea and coffee is encyclopaedic. We also have other great members of staff, both full and part time. Keeping an old business fresh is a skill in itself though. We mustn’t stand still! We also put on live music every Sunday 11am-2.30pm - a jazz-brunch with the best musicians we can afford. Celebrating 125 years this year there’s an awful lot to say. Not many businesses reach that milestone. We were on our second generation when the Titanic sank, and we are still here… that puts it into perspective!’ News on anniversary celebrations coming soon. 516 Upper Newtownards Rd. Phone 028 9047 1774 www.sdbellsteacoffee.com
No. 36
Belmont Road Fresh, Local, Homecooked Nosh
No. 36 is a newly established coffee shop and eaterie on the Belmont Road, offering the best of home cooking, beverages prepared by experienced baristas and to complement a wide range of home baked goods. In addition, No.36 has a retail section presenting a selection of home made chutneys, jams, short-bread, truffles and tray bakes that you can take home to enjoy or pass as your own. To complement our take on the breakfast menu a selection of homemade gourmet scones and muffins are available. At lunchtime you can find fancy tarts, delicious bakes, meaty pies and other hot pots in our kitchen. Our soups are inspired from recipes from Belmont road to Bombay served alongside gourmet sandwiches, Ciabatta and wraps.
Opening hours:
Mon: 8.30 - 5 • Tues: 8.30 - 5 • Wed :8.30 - 5.30 Thur: 8.30 - 5.30 • Fri: 8.30 - 8 • Sat 9.30 - 4 • Sun: 11-4
Take away service available 36 Belmont Road, Belfast, BT4 2AN Tel: 028 9065 7476 no.36belmontroad@hotmail.co.uk
Lesley Manor 805, Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7GX. T: 028 9068 7050
107 Bloomfield Avenue, Belfast, BT5 5AB T/F: 028 9045 2665 F: 028 9087 2491 E: elaine.peel@ntlworld.com
Just A little Preview of A few of this seAson’s Must hAves At Peel And MArc cAin
Marc Cain
Moschino Cheap and Chic
Moschino Cheap and Chic & Citizens Jeans
Moschino Cheap and Chic & Citizens Jeans
Marc Cain
Marc Cain
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sAle shoP hAs re-oPened on 111 blooMfield Avenue, oPen every sAturdAy 10-5PM until further notice. www.PeelfAshionstore.coM find us on facebook