Bloom Magazine (May 16)

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CONTENTS 04

06

08

From Your Local Area

What we love this month

Bloom Loves

Plenty 4 ÂŁ20

12

14

18

Belfast Mum

Beauty Advice

Tribal Fitness

22

28

30

Property Bloom

Big Picture

News

Parenting Blog

Bargain Hunting

Secret Day Spa

Cucou

Hollie Edgar

UR Hair

Movie News

Urban Roots

34

36

38

Coffee time

Local Expert Natures Way

Pringle Chiropractic

40

44

46

Cook Book

Culture Vulture

With Ali Ford

Deli Muru

Local Expert

Dekko Bird

Lyndsay Malone

Home Style Blogger

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Contact:

City East Business Centre, 68-72 Newtownards Road, Belfast, Co. Antrim BT4 1GW

Angela Campbell

angela@bloommagazine.co.uk www.bloommagazine.co.uk 07719 104 862

Credits: Designed by:

Distributed by:

Stephen Sharpe - sharpeart.com Barry McGovern - kubrixdesign.com Terry Stevenson - xinked.com Belfast Mail & Marketing belfastmm.com

Terms & Conditions: Any views expressed within are not necessarily endorsed by Bloom Magazine or WALL 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.

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MAY 2016

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ND Craft Collective May Market – Supporting Alzheimer’s Society The North Down Craft Collective is based in Holywood Old School in the County Down coastal town of Holywood.

A town with a rich and diverse heritage, it is proud to state that it’s maypole is the only surviving one in Ireland and is still used every May Day! Pop up the hill this May and visit your local crafters, designers and food producers showcasing the highest quality hand crafted products. Browse over 20 stalls of unique creations and call into Miss Maud’s Vintage Tearoom for morning coffee or lunch.

The ND Craft Collective raise funds every month for different local charities and May’s event will be supporting the North and East NI branch of Alzheimer’s Society. All of the £1 entrance fee will go to the charity.

For further information on events and crafters check out the collective on facebook – www.facebook.com/ndcraftcollective, twitter – www.twitter.com/@northdowncraft or instgram – www.instagram.com/ndcraftcollective.

To apply to join the collective as a guest crafter please email Debbie and William at ndcraftcollective@gmail.com

Double Congratulations to Eden Last month we mentioned that Eden was entering The Ultimate beauty of the World Pagaent.

We are now pleased to announce that she won this and the following week she also won Miss teen Galaxy Ireland. And is now heading to Miss World Galaxy Finals this August in Florida Follow her journey to the World finals on her facebook page Miss Teen Galaxy Ireland 2016

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Physiotherapy Led Pilates For Everyone From its brand new base, in east Belfast, a new clinic is offering Pilates that nearly anyone can do.

Belfast Pilates was established by physiotherapists Gillian Duggan and Sonia McCay in 2007. They have more than 30 years of physiotherapy experience as well as being fully certified APPI (Australian Physiotherapy and Pilates Institute) instructors.

The business has recently opened fantastic new premises on the main Holywood Road (close to Holywood Arches). Belfast Pilates are very proud that all their classes are run by Physiotherapists who are all APPI certified.

Pilates is a combination of strength, mobility and stretching exercises all performed on a mat or Reformer machine. Consultant surgeon, Paul Nolan, refers patients to Belfast Pilates. He says “I believe that physio led Pilates forms an integral part of the rehabilitation of low back pain and I have referred many of my patients to Gillian and Sonia with great results."

Belfast Pilates and Physiotherapy have recently acquired top of the range Pilates reformers. These machines add power and resistance to Pilates. This means quicker strengthening results. Gillian and Sonia firmly maintain "our Pilates classes stand apart as everyone is medically pre-screened on a one to one basis prior to any class participation. All our classes are tailored to the individual needs of each participant and we do not offer drop in classes containing a mix of abilities."

For more information, visit us at Belfast Pilates, 1a Madison Avenue East, Holywood Road, Belfast BT4 1PG

Dundela Infants School PTA Run To Raise Funds On Monday 2nd May a team from Dundela Infants School will be taking part in the 35th Deep RiverRock Belfast City Marathon Relay.

Mums Karalyn Browne, Carly Harkness, Judith McCann and Anna Rankin, along with Classroom Assistant Laura Dornan will be hoping to complete the 26.2-mile distance in a team effort to raise funds for the PTA. The team has been kindly sponsored by local Podiatry, Chiropody and Physiotherapy clinic Body and Sole NI. As well as raising money we also wanted to encourage and inspire the kids who during April are taking part in a Healthy Lifestyles Week at school. Pupils will be getting involved in activities and learning about the benefits of eating well and living a more active lifestyle from an early age.

We are really excited to be taking on the challenge of running in the marathon and are hoping for a great day.

We want to encourage the whole school community to support us in our fundraising and to embrace the message: Be Healthy, Be Active, Be Happy!

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30 ml £59 For all Arbonne Cosmetics, contact Amanda on 07889485999

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6

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As much as I like shopping for myself, I am also always looking for a bargain for my little mini me in the shape if my 9 year old daughter. I am in the process of kitting her out for our summer holiday.

I was looking for basics like sundresses, swimsuits and beach cover ups and was lucky enough to get them all in one go at the NEXT clearance site online. This is a kind of go to site for children's clothes for me now.

Strangely I am not so lucky in the store but much more so online, so always worth checking both!

The swimsuit and beach cover up pictured should have been £14 and £15 respectively bringing it to a total if £29, however, on the clearance site I managed to pick up both for £14.50! I n addition to this I managed to pick up a party dress for £3.99 in a kid's sale rail at M&S so there are 3 key pieces for the spring/summer for under £20!

So until next month - happy (bargain) hunting! X

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8

Pamper Beauty Parlour is celebrating its one year anniversary since opening in May 2015. Owner Ursula Austin has over 10 years experience in the beauty industry and qualified from the well renowned Bronwyn Conroy Beauty School.

At Pamper we know all about hectic modern life that's why we have created a sanctuary, designed specifically for the busy women of today. Pamper believes in using only the best brands and products. We use the exclusive Yon-ka Paris skincare, a highly result driven and effective range of aromatherapy based products used and loved by many celebrities. We also specialise in LVL lashes, Shellac and Spray tans from Bellamianta and LA Tan.

1st Year Anniversary Offers (May only) *Eclat Cocoon Facial £40 (usually £55)

*Book LVL Lashes receive a FREE eyelash tint, eyebrow tint & wax

* Full Body Spray Tan £15

To book phone 02895435757 www.pamperbeautyparlour.co.uk info@pamperbeautyparlour.co.uk www.facebook.com/pamperbeautyparlour

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Castlereagh Road Tesco To Raise Buckets At Charity Collection Colleagues at Castlereagh Road Tesco store in Belfast are expected to raise buckets over the weekend of 13-14 May when they take part in the nationwide 30 minute bucket collection challenge for the National Charity Partnership between Tesco.

Diabetes UK and the British Heart Foundation (BHF) launched in January 2015, the three year partnership between Tesco, Diatetes UK and the BHF aims to raise £30million. Working in teams, Tesco colleagues from Castlereagh Road will compete with each other to see which team can raise the most money during 30minute sements of bucket collection activity, This event is part of the three year National Charity Partnership between Tesco, Diabetes UK and the BHF. Customers will be asked to dig deep to support colleagues in their fundraising for the charities and the work of the partnership.

The money raised by Tesco colleagues from events like 30 minute bucket challenge will fund the vital and ongoing work of both charities. It will also fund joint projects by all three partners, such as Lets Do This- a campaign designed to inspire millions of people to set achievable lifestyle goals to boost their health and wellbeing. The aim is to help reduce millions of people's risk of developing Type2 diabetes and heart and circulatory disease. Being active and eating well are key steps people can take to reduce their risk of developing both conditions. In 2016 the National Charity Partnership will see free, fun events and programmes being delivered in nine areas across the UK, to inspire people to be active and eat well, the Partnership will also work in a further six areas to support the delivery of free food-based workshops and Beat the Street a free real-life walking and cycling game set to inspire 200,000 children (and their families) to get active this year.

There are currently 3.65 million people in the UK with Type 2 diabetes and 7 million people living with heart and circulatory disease. Physical exercise plays a key role in maintaining a healthy weight, which in turn can help reduce the risk of developing both conditions. This event is a great way of bringing the community together and reminding people of the importance of leading an active and healthy lifestyle. This is also a great opportunity for Tesco colleagues to have some fun together, while raising vital funds to help people across the UK. For more information about the National Chatity Partnership's Let's DoThis campaign, visit lets-dothis.org.uk

Stairlift Solutions Goes That Extra Mile For You As we get older, many of us start to suffer with mobility problems. Everyday things we used to take for granted, like walking up the stairs, can become an issue. If you are finding it more and more difficult to walk from your living room to your upstairs bedroom or bathroom, help is at hand in the form of a stairlift.

Stairlift Solutions have been selling, installing and servicing stairlifts for over a decade now right across Northern Ireland. As a locally owned family run business, Stairlift Solutions prides itself on a helpful and friendly service, always going that extra mile for all their customers — both new and old alike. Whether it’s straight or curved, indoor or outdoor, Stairlift Solutions can offer new, reconditioned or rental of stairlifts and can even have it installed within 24 hours if needed. They also fully maintain the stairlifts with full warranty and 24 hour after sales care, plus extended warranty is also available for total peace of mind. Stairlift Solutions is also a proud supporter of both Action Cancer and Marie Curie and continue to promote their causes across Northern Ireland.

To arrange a FREE, no obligation survey, please call 028 9188 2249 or go to www.stairliftsolutionsni.com

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10

89 HOLYWOOD RD BELFAST

OPENING 9TH MAY

A Belfast Mum Donn

a Be ll

I've had a few people tell me they really liked last month's column about how doing a simple grocery shop with the kids has the potential to turn me into a blubbering mess. Other Mums liked knowing there was someone else out there praying their children would just be good for twenty minutes so they could get the essentials in; someone else who emptied the snack cupboard just to get as far as the freezer aisle without a meltdown... Well, here's the thing - the supermarket is not the only place I feel like a bad mum. I feel like that most days, in my house, in my car, in cafes, sometimes even before breakfast, because my children do not eat healthily. At all.

I know all the rules about nutrition - complex carbohydrates, proteins, 5 portions of fruit and veg, 5 glasses of water. I know all that, but somehow we've got to a point where my girls exist on a tapas style diet of snacks. Oh they love a snack plate - small amounts of ham, crisps, raisins, apple slices, a biscuit or cracker. And to give them their dues, they do like their fruit. But vegetables are a foreign concept, and dinners

seem to be an assembly of battered chicken, fish fingers, and sausages with chips. All accompanied by litres of ketchup. Every time they refuse my hidden vegetables pasta sauce, or a lovingly prepared low-salt cottage pie, I die a little inside. And my resolve to keep trying, to keep wasting food, dies a little too. I hear of friends' children who will happily tuck into curries, salad, and vegetable-packed stir-fries, and I feel like a failure again as I pass mine another Bourbon.

We recently visited Slim's Healthy Kitchen on the Belmont Rd for a Sunday breakfast. We should have known better. The kids wouldn't try anything, despite the lovely menu. When I asked the 4 year old what she'd like, she matter-of-factly replied "Sweets".

I'm hoping they'll grow out of it, but for now I'll keep the fruit bowl well stocked, try to limit the amount of actual sweets they get (and never grant her wish of sweets for breakfast!) and keep brushing their teeth. A lot.

www.abelfastmum.com |

12

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‘DIAthlete’ heading to Northern Ireland to inspire young diabetics Teenagers and young people diagnosed with type 1 diabetes will next month be told that the condition doesn’t have to stop them from fulfilling their dreams.

‘DIAthlete’ Gavin Griffiths, an ultra endurance athlete, will be visiting Northern Ireland from May 6th to 8th with the aim of inspiring young people with type 1 diabetes at events in Ballymena, Belfast and Lisburn.

And organisers are appealing for as many children and young people with type 1 diabetes to come along and benefit from Gavin’s many years of experience.

Dubbed ‘the DIAthlete, he’ was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the age of 8, when he was informed that his dreams in sports would be affected. Now, Gavin is recognised across global diabetes communities for being ‘the DIAthlete’ – an ultra-endurance athlete taking on the extreme to show any dream is still possible whilst living with diabetes.

Gavin was an inspiration when he visited Belfast last year to run some informal speaking events and take part in training sessions with some of young people.

Next month’s programme of events is as follows:

Friday 6th May (from 7pm) Ballymena (location tbc) - Inspirational talk from Gavin Griffiths aka ‘DIAthlete’.

Gavin will tell his story, packed with adventure, good humour and travels which provide a global insight to the world of diabetes, sporting accomplishments and above all a positive message to those who need to hear it: type 1 Diabetes doesn’t have to stop you from fulfilling your dreams; nothing does.

Saturday 7th May (from 10:30am) Cavehill - Walk/hike and picnic with Gavin on hand to give advice http://www.walkni.com/walks/79/cave-hill-country-park/ Saturday 7th May (from 3pm) Knocknagoney Church of Ireland Church Hall - Family afternoon with BBQ everyone welcome! Come along for an afternoon of games suited to all ages. A great chance to meet new families and let your type 1 child and their siblings get to know others in the same situation. The afternoon will be finished with a BBQ. Numbers must be confirmed in advance to plan for food – a charge of £5 for 1 adult and family or £10 for 2 adults and family to attend will be applied. All profits from the event will go to DIAthlete.org to allow Gavin to fund further events (Diathlete.org is a registered Social Enterprise – a business where society profits).

Sunday 8th May (from 12:30pm) Wallace Park, Lisburn - DiAthlete Education Programme. These programmes represent an initiative to educate, encourage and empower diabetes communities with fun and active sessions, to explore how the body reacts in various forms of exercise and coach the best methods of keeping stable blood glucose level control, before, during and after your sporty days!

These programmes provide great opportunities for children and their families to meet, network and share their experiences. A major aim of DiAthlete is to unite and strengthen diabetes communities and these engaging sessions are a great way to do it! A ballot held throughout the weekend will be drawn at Wallace Park on Sunday.

For further details about any of the events please email diathletebelfast@btinternet.com or phone 07904 034026.

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Dazzling Beauty Now Open In East Belfast OUR NEW SALON RECENTLY OPENED INSIDE FIT SEW GOOD ON THE BEERSBRIDGE ROAD. Salon owner Emma has over 12 years experience within the beauty industry and with 5 of those 12 having her own salon.

Emma also teaches threading and acrylic nails at Bronwyn Conroy Beauty School.

waxing, tinting, threading, tanning, nails, nail art and much more. We have a warm friendly atmosphere in the salon and yet provide high standards and professionalism at all times.

Here at Dazzling Beauty we provide a full range of beauty and nail treatments including facials, massage, microdermabrasion, HD Brows, lash lifts,

We use the highest quality products whilst keeping the cost affordable so that you can all enjoy a treat now and again.

Find us on Facebook to check out our monthly offers | 345 Beersbridge Road | Tel: 07821191530

345 BEERSBRIDGE RD, BELFAST BT5 5ES

Exercise, the natural remedy for Mental Wellness.

Getting the training gear on after a long and stressful day at work is most often the last thing you feel like doing, but it’s worth the effort!

Exercise releases endorphins, which create feelings of happiness and euphoria, trust me you should hear the giggles from my bootcamp sessions. Studies have shown that exercise can even alleviate symptoms among the clinically depressed . For this reason, doctors recommend that people suffering from depression or anxiety (or those who are just feeling blue) pencil in plenty of time for some form of physical activity.

In some cases, exercise can be just as effective as antidepressant pills in treating depression. Don’t worry if you’re not the gym type or drawn to fast paced workout classes, at minimum, an energetic walk to create blood flow around the body and bring much needed oxygen to the brain can boost overall mood.

It's about finding something that works for YOU. If you spend all day surrounded by people and solitude is what you are looking for, then perhaps an activity like swimming, yoga, cycling or running is a better fit.

Space to be alone with your own thoughts, spending time being mindful of the things your busy day has not allowed you to process,can be therapeutic allowing stress and anxiety to decrease.

The secret of change is to focus all of your energy, not on fighting the old but building the new.

Perhaps it is community you are seeking, people to encourage you, a trainer who will support and guide you to find your inner athlete. Studies show that most people perform better on aerobic tests when paired up with a workout buddy or group.

Since the age of 18 I have lived with an anxiety disorder. It does not have a dominant presence in my life but rather appears in the form of what i call "an episode" sparked normally by external stressors. I have a handful of different tools I use to keep this debilitating condition at bay, but without doubt EXERCISE has always been the most successful aid in helping me find my balance and serenity.

To me, exercise takes on many different forms. A group hike up one of our glorious mountains, a run and a chat with a good friend, games in the garden with my children, a calm and challenging Reform Pilates session or one of my all time favourites, a bootcamp session with my amazing Tribal Fitness girls.

Perhaps it's inspiration or good old-fashioned competition, nobody wants to let the other person down. In fact, being part of a team is so powerful that it can actually raise an athlete's tolerance of pain, most of my clients say they will always push further when part of a team than if left to their own devices. Even fitness beginners can inspire each other to push harder during a workout session, so find a friend and get moving!

Finding you are capable of so much more than you thought is entirely liberating and begins to tackle self doubt, while releasing old negative thought patterns and allowing you to experience an improved level of HAPPINESS.

If you would like to be a part of the Tribe, you can contact Hollie at www.tribalfitnessbootcamps.co.uk

hollie@tribalfitnessbootcamps.co.uk

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Peel's Summer Denim Showcase Event Fashionistas from across Northern Ireland flocked to east Belfast store PEEL this week for their Denimtastic event.

Featuring brands such as Citizens of Humanity, AG Jeans, 360cashmere, Skull Cashmere and Essentiel Antwerp amongst many others, the mini fashion showcase highlighted the very best way to wear denim this season – a key trend for SS16.

For further details, call us on 028 9045 2665 or find us at 107 Bloomfield Avenue, BT5 5AB Belfast.

Email address: elaine.peel@ntlworld.com | Website: www.peelfashionstore.com

Don’t breed problems for later neuter now!

With the cat breeding season well underway in May, the UK’s leading feline welfare charity is urging cat owners to get their cats snipped or spayed as soon as possible; saying it is the most effective way of controlling numbers of unwanted cats and kittens.

Cats Protection’s Belfast Adoption Centre works hard to try and find loving homes for every feline that comes into its care but one of the charity’s main aims is to encourage the neutering of cats and kittens to ensure there will be fewer unwanted felines in the future.

The charity believes that population control for cats is vital, as felines are prolific breeders. As one unneutered female cat could produce up to 18 kittens a year, or 20,000 descendants over five years! Owners who do not neuter their cats may unwittingly be contributing to more cats being abandoned in the future.

Cats Protection is currently operating a Northern Ireland wide scheme that enables cats to be neutered for £5. This offer is open to owners who reside in Northern Ireland who are receiving state benefits, are on a low income or who are students or pensioners. Either phone Cats Protection’s neutering hotline on 03000 12 12 12 (lines open from Monday – Friday, 9.30am-1pm) or contact your nearest vet and ask whether they are participating in the £5 campaign.

Cats Protection recommends that cats and kittens are neutered from around four months of age. Veterinary practices that neuter cats from four months of age can be found at www.cats.org.uk/what-we-do/neutering

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THE PROPERTY BLOOM

It’s all gone a bit Cucou on the Belmont Road!

Cucou’s official relaunch party was a huge success. The venue was the Cucou Property offices on the Belmont Road shared with GMC Mortgages (all under one roof, so that’s handy).

The theme was Birds, Eggs, Nests, Balloons, Property,Estate Agents and Mortgages! And Champagne!

Many thanks to all the clients, customers, traders and agents who attended.

A special thanks to High Sheriff of Belfast, Alderman Jim Rodgers OBE who officiated at the launch.

Cucou Property Consultancy has relaunched under new ownership with a unique service to the local property market.

Cucou Property Consultants is different in that the company is an estate agent and consultancy who work with local agents, not against. Marketing Manager Jill Spence quoted “We work with local agents and all our sales listings are also placed with one of a number of “partner” agents we feel is best capable of achieving a sucessful sale with us . You get two agents for the price of one!”

Different

Cucou removes the need to wonder which agent to use, or getting 3 or 4 round to give valuations. They will provide a valuation free of charge, and fully explain all costs and benefits including service standards, contract types and marketing fees on behalf of their partner agents. Cucou also “nests” with GMC Mortgages, so everything you need is under one roof.

A bit like the bird, cucou places its egg (your property) in another agents nest, in order to ensure success! And as they work with lots of agents, there arte no geographical limits! Very different!

If you are buying, Cucou have a wide network of partner estate agents hence a larger portfolio of properties at their fingertips. The team can also help you search for exactly what you want in your desired location and then organise your mortgage through GMC. Cucou also provides a letting and management service.

If you would like to hear more about what Cucou can offer you visit their website on www.cucou.co.uk or give them a call on 02890655999

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23

Thinking of selling?

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Well Presented First Floor Apartment. Would suit a first time buyer or investor

Semi-Detached Property, deceptively spacious

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Three well-proportioned bedrooms

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A New Approach in Estate Agency Cucou is unique - we partner with other estate agents so you get agents for the price of one, providing superior marketing exposure to achieve a quicker sale.

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5 Chesterfield Park, Rosetta

3 Wheatfield, Ballygowan

10 Meadowbank Park Dundonald

Attractive Bay Fronted Red Brick Semi Detached Property

An impressive detached family home in a popular area of Ballygowan

Well presented spacious family home in Dundonald

2 generous reception rooms 3 reception rooms Three Well Proportioned Bedrooms Full Planning Approved for Double Storey Extension (Plans available in Office)

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few parts of it more aimed at older members of the audience.

a trip down memory lane As we had a birthday in ourhouse recently with my daughter turning 9 around the Easter break, we took the opportunity to see 'Zootropolis'.

For me this is the best kids film there has been for a while, although I did find a

It was very clever and very well done and we all enjoyed it very much especially the birthday girl who managed to see it twice! Well worth catching before it leaves the cinema.

At a recent event, I found myself dancing to songs from 'Footloose' (don't ask!) and it reminded me what a great film it was and his much I enjoyed watching it when I was younger.

Centre and was pleased to see that they are showing it soon as part of their classic films run.

With 'An Officer and a Gentleman' and 'Ferris Bueller's Day Off' also part of the run, to name but a few, it is sure to be a nice little trip down memory lane for those of us of a certain age as well as an opportunity for the my reach a new audience!

I then had a flyer through the door from Strand Arts

Tickets for all events at Strand Arts Centre can be booked in person at the Strand, by phoning (028) 9065 5830 or online at www.strandartscentre.com

M AY

MOV IE

L ISTING S

AT THE STRAND FOR DAILY CINEMA LISTINGS CALL:

(028) 9067 3500

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Florence Foster Jenkins (PG)

Mustang (15) with English Subtitles

From 6th May Biography / Comedy / Drama

13th – 19th May Top pick of recent film festivals.

X-Men: Apocalypse (TBC) From 19th May Action / Adventure / Fantasy

CLASSIC movies saturday minors teenage kicks EVERY THURSDAY 8PM, TICKETS ÂŁ3.50

FILM CLUB | EVERY SATURDAY AT 12NOON | FREE

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When Harry Met Sally [15] Thurs 5th & 12th May

Space Jam 7th May

Inside Out 14th May

Jaws 6th May

Silver Linings Playbook 13th May

An Officer & A Gentleman [15] Thurs 19th & 26th May

March Of The Penguins 21st May

Alice in Wonderland 28th May

Dirty Dancing 20th May

Warm Bodies [TETHER] 27th May

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URhairExpert Lighten up!

Pamela Robinson

Owner & Creative Director

The winter has finally gone, the sky’s are looking brighter and may I dare say that the temperature is on the rise. Which can only mean one thing…. summer hair, Right?!

Blonde concerns

If you’re anything like me, I love to lighten up the old winter locks and go for a more softer look in the summer months.

Brassiness: Don’t worry L’Oreal have it covered.

They have introduced a new line to the already amazing INOA called INOA RESIST INOA. This colour extends the lifetime of your cool blonde, with a new high-resistance technology. The patented formula stabilizes and preserves the cool reflects inside of the hair fibre, resulting in an anti-brassy blonde that lasts up to 8.5 washes*, leaving your blonde hair better conditioned. The end result is a cool, natural looking blonde, full of depth and different tone levels.

There are so many lightening techniques on the market now, its never been so easy to do just that, better still they let you chose the commitment that suits both your lifestyle and budget.

For all those brunettes and redheads, be it copper or deep reds, I recommend going for the a subtle and sun kissed look which can be achieved with the likes of the 'babylight' technique, which L’Oreal professional have been raving about of the last few months.

It focuses on introducing very fine pieces around the hairline, parting and the ends. If you’re blonde already ask your stylist to add ultra-fine cool tones, for the ultimate summer trend. Balayage, foilayage and full head lightening techniques are still very much in the running this summer, so why not download L’Oreal lasted app 'style my hair'.

It lets you play around with colour and cuts, so finding your perfect look is literally at your fingertips.

UrbanrootsBallyhackamore

Condition: like it or not, from the minute you colour your hair it becomes damaged and weak and even more so for blondes, so it is vital that you use a conditioner that will prevent anymore damage. I recommended Lo real’s ASOLUTE REPAIR MASQUE. The mask targets the areas where hair is damaged, leaving it feeling more resistant and easier to manage. Hair looks smoother and softer from root-to-tip, thanks to a resurfacing effect. Either replace your conditioner with this mask or use it occasionally for an extra nourishing feel. Leave it on your hair for 3-5 minutes and then rinse it our thoroughly.

UrbanrootsBelfast

@URhairBelfast

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Phone: 028 9065 8950 @URhairBelfast

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We also have a range of handmade gifts and memory bears WE HAVE MOVED!

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Last month I caught up with the lovely Allie Ford for a coffee.

Better known as ‘Dymphna’ from Give My Head Peace, Allie chats about work, motherhood and her love of East Belfast.

We are all very excited about Handbag Positive returning to the stage, give us a very quick overview of what to expect.

Handbag Positive is a story of two teenage girls growing up in Belfast amidst the mayhem that was ‘the troubles’. Not caring a thing about bomb scares the girls were more interested in boys, going out, music (most notably The Bay City Rollers) and escaping their mother’s protective grip. Thirty years on the friends reunite in A&E under sombre circumstances and after some laughs and insults they rekindle their friendship. The audience will be treated to a trip down memory lane with numerous flashbacks to their youth. With a rollercoaster of emotions, you get an insight to what went wrong and right for the two girls over the years. Oh and throw in

a few Bay City Rollers tunes for the craic!

You will be performing Handbag Positive for a 1000 strong audience in the Grand Opera House. Will you be nervous?

Oh absolutely! My stomach will be churning as I’m waiting in the wings to go on, but it’s that adrenaline that eventually gets you through. I love performing in the GOH though.

It’s an amazing venue and although it holds 1000 people it still feels very intimate. The shape of it feels like a great big hug and the acoustics are phenomenal.

Allie, you’re a busy working mummy, how do you juggle the two?

Probably like most families, it all goes wonderful at times, and then at others it all comes crashing down. I am fortunate that I have great support from my husband and my parents. Without my mum I don’t think I could do it, she’s amazing.

Lastly, although you are a blow-in to ‘The East’ we have (after almost 17 years) claimed you as one of our own, tell us what you love about living here.

I adore living in East Belfast. I love that I am a five minute walk away from school, from a butcher, baker, library, fruit shop etc. There is an amazing feeling of community and inclusion in East Belfast and I love that. I have a bus stop outside my door as well so I love that I can jump on that and be in the city centre in

20 minutes. Personal favourites would be Graze in Ballyhackamore.

Delicious food, amazing cocktails and I can walk home! I have to mention Jellybean as well. Over the years their food and service has been consistently great and they are brilliant with the kids.

You can see Allie perform in Handbag Positive from Mon 20th June until Saturday 25th June in the Grand Opera House.

COMPETITION We are giving one lucky Bloom reader the chance to win a pair of tickets to see Handbag Positive in The Grand Opera House in June.

Just answer this question: How many nights is Handbag Positive playing in the Grand Opera House this June?

Send your answer along with your name and address to info@bloommagazine.co.uk before 31st May.

For more information and to book tickets visit: www.goh.co.uk/handbag-positive

Barber Academy

NOW OPEN All Haircuts £6.50 Hot Towel Shave £7.50 All haircuts done by our students are under the watchful eye of one of our Senior barbers.

Call us on 02891 060 000 Find us at 355 Holywood Road, Belfast, BT4 2LR

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LOCAL

EXPERT Top Remedies to have in your cupboard

Jacqui Maxwell Natures Way

Herbal Medicine is as old as creation, going back to the time where there were no other forms of medicine man had to discover what nature had to offer. These days herbal remedies and supplements are widely available for most common ailments, but I get the fact it can seem like a minefield to some people and can also seem confusing.

We often end up with cupboards full of potions and lotions that we forget what we first bought them for!

In my career I have worked with some of the best Practitioners and picked up tips for them along the way. Jan De Vries would have a drop of propolis tincture on a biscuit with his tea each day to keep his throat and vocal cords in top shape as he spoke all day long in dry clinic conditions. Dr Frank Maconaghie would always use arnica for anything from sports injuries to toothache to childbirth.

In this article I will point out a few products that I often and successfully use in my own home and in the shop on a daily basis. Some healing foods, nutritional supplements, herbal medicines and homoeopathy.

Cider vinegar - Alkalizes the body to help with digestive issues such as acid reflux and heartburn, breaks down fats, It is also useful to help aid weight loss and control appetite, A spoonful in a cup of hot water each morning is a perfect way to start the day.

Coconut oil - Personally I keep a jar in the kitchen for cooking and adding to foods, and a jar in the bathroom as a hair/face/body moisturizer also useful as a Toothpaste It has too many properties to list but I think you get the idea!

Epsom salts - For people who suffer cramps this is a must to have at home, A 10 minute foot soak before bed will prevent those night cramps, Also to have a bath to relieve muscle ach all over..

Beetroot juice - Helps to lower blood pressure, cleanses the blood and help get more oxygen through the body to help with energy levels.

Aloe Vera gel - For burns and skin irritations..

Arnica cream - For all the bumps and bruises

Slippery Elm - For tummy upset, Indigestion Manuka Honey - For the sudden onset of cold like symptoms Rhodiola - (Or as I call it the wonder herb) Probably my most recommended herb for stress and anxiety, irritability, concentration and focus and very good for that feeling of “Can’t catch your tail” Propolis tincture - Great for the onset of a sore throat, or good for public speakers or singers to keep the vocal cords healthy.

Tea Tree oil - Everyone should have a little bottle of tea tree at home as an antiseptic for cuts and grazes and a disinfectant to wipe down surfaces and kill germ without the use of harsh chemicals.

D-Mannose - The best and most natural product for the sudden attack of urinary infections.

Chamomile and valerian teas - For sleep disturbance and relaxation.

Turmeric - As a general anti-inflammatory for joint pain.

I could list so many but I only have a page. If you have any questions or queries that you would like to chat to me about please don’t hesitate to pop in to the shop for further information.

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Tel: +44(0)28 9047 1333 | Web: www.houseofhomebrew.co.uk Nature’s Way, 305 Upper Newtownards Road, Belfast, Co. Antrim, BT4 3JH

Working out is easy with our complimentary day pass. Rev up your routine, beat boredom and discover fun for all the family: • Crystal clear pool • Over 80 inspirational classes • every week • Innovative gym floor • UK’s largest swim school • Club-V, our Ofsted approved • childcare

Call us today to book your visit 0289 076 5035 Mertoun Hall 106 Belfast Road Holywood Belfast BT18 9QY

LOCAL

EXPERT

Pringle Chiropractic

Pregnancy

& Chiropractic

Is Chiropractic suitable for mothers-to-be?

Absolutely! In fact, pregnant women benefit as much as any other group—benefits that can include the baby as well.

Pregnancy is a time of excitement, yet with it there are many challenges as the body adapts. There are a mixture of structural and hormonal changes affecting the spine, nerves, joints, ligaments, connective tissues, centre of gravity and stability. Chiropractors are trained to assess, treat these areas and offer specialist advice related to different stages of pregnancy.

Drugless Approach To Health

General advice is to avoid medication when pregnant; Chiropractic may offer a natural solution to common concerns.

Can Chiropractic Turn babies?

One common question is do we ‘turn babies’? Chiropractic techniques used in antenatal care are designed to correct structural imbalances that may have occurred during pregnancy. With stresses released many have observed that the baby will turn naturally.

FAQ’s

Is chiropractic safe during pregnancy?

Absolutely! Chiropractic’s gentle, drug free approach is very safe throughout pregnancy.

Can I see other health care providers while under chiropractic care?

Of course, Many women continue chiropractic care throughout their pregnancy in addition to other health professionals. In fact Chiropractic often forms part of a holistic approach to pregnancy. E.g. Pregnancy yoga, Chiropractic and acupuncture are all commonly used by women seeking a natural approach.

Do I have to have a problem in pregnancy to see a chiropractor?

Not at all. Periodic check-ups during pregnancy should be as common as periodic weigh-ins.

Many see it as preventative and get check-ups before complaints develop.

What About After Pregnancy?

Spinal care can help post-partum women by correcting structural changes that have occurred due to pregnancy and labour. Chiropractic care can begin at any stage post-partum even just a few days after labour if needed. If you have any further questions, call us on 028 9020 2003

or check out our website www.Pringle-Chiropractic.co.uk

TEL: 028 9020 2003 | WEB: www.pringle-chiropractic.co.uk

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DR PAUL PRINGLE - CLINIC DIRECTOR DR RACHEL HOWE - SPECIALIZING IN PREGNANCY & PAEDIATRICS PRINGLE CHIROPRACTIC, 26-28 HOLYWOOD ROAD, BELFAST, BT4 1NT

cookbook ABOUT DELI MURU Muru means 'a little something' in Finnish. In this case, it refers to a new East Belfast company, owned by Kay, which makes an array of conserves, chutney, sweet and savoury biscuits, foodie hampers and gifts!

1. Preheat oven 180c/ 350f/gas 4.

Grease and line a 20x20cm baking tin.

2. Melt the butter and chocolate in a bowl over a pan of hot water.

3. In a separate bowl beat the eggs, then add the sugar, vanilla and orange.

4. Fold in the sifted flour and baking powder.

Double Chocolate Orange Brownies SERVES 12

5. Pour in the butter and chocolate mixture and then add the chocolate chips and give one last stir.

6. Pour into the baking tin and bake for 35-40 minutes. It should be crisp on the top but gooey in the middle.

7. Allow to cool in the tin before topping and cutting.

For the Brownies: Toppings (optional):

For the topping

- 225g/8oz butter - 225g/8oz dark chocolate broken into pieces - 4 eggs - 300g/10oz caster sugar - 2 tsp vanilla extract - Zest of 1 orange - 2 tbsp orange juice or orange liqueur - 150g/5oz plain flour - 1 tsp baking powder - 100g/4oz chocolate chips

1. Put all the ingredients into a pan and gently heat, stir regularly.

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- 150g/5oz dark chocolate - 150ml double cream - 45g golden syrup - 175g /6oz icing sugar

2. Remove chocolate brownie from the tin and spread over the topping. Chill for 20 minutes before cutting, serve with vanilla ice cream!

Wild Garlic & Lemon Roast Chicken This is a simple one pot fragrant dish.

If you can get hold of wild garlic it gives a more delicate flavour.

SERVES 4

For the Chicken:

1. Preheat oven to 190C/ 375F/ Gas 5

- 1.6 -2kg whole organic or free range chicken

2. Mix the butter & garlic together to soften

- Fresh wild garlic chopped (or 2 garlic cloves)

3. Gently loosen the chicken skin away from the breast.

If you don't like using your hands use a dessert spoon, making sure you don't tear the skin.

- 100g Butter - 800g Potatoes - 400g Carrots chopped - 4 Onions quartered - Olive oil - Juice of 1 lemon - 300ml Hot water - Salt & freshly ground black pepper

4. Push the butter mixture under the skin, leaving a little over to pop on the top.

5. Place the chicken into a large roasting tin, add all the vegetables around the sides.

6. Add the lemon juice and hot water to the tray, sprinkle some olive oil over the chicken and vegetables, finish with salt and pepper.

7. Cook for 1hr 30mins. Leave to stand for 10 minutes before serving!

The vegetables and potatoes absorb all the different flavours and you are left with a wonderful gravy.

Enjoy!

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Culture uMraelone t l u V Lyndsay Ever think about doing something different in your free time, going somewhere you haven't been before or experiencing something new?

Well I used to think that all the time until I started doing it! After a hard day at the office sometimes I like nothing more than to switch on the telly box, glass of wine in hand and chill ... but a lot of the time I'm keen to catch up with friends, spend time with family or meet new people whilst soaking up the vibrant culture of Belfast and beyond.

Festivals and events to look out for in May...

Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival

I'll be sharing my discoveries of arts and culture at home and abroad including city events worth a try, island getaways exploring all corners of Northern Ireland and the odd cultural discovery whilst on holiday. I LOVE holidays.

Until 8th May. Centered around one of the most vibrant areas in the city CQAF brings a unique mix of music, comedy, theatre and literature.

As well as discovering hidden gems of events I love to don a volunteer tee and get involved in the various festivals running throughout the year. I'm very proud of my festival t-shirt stash which includes the NI Science Festival, Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival, Open House festival and the Belfast Film Festival. I've just finished my 4th year of volunteering with the latter. This year the Belfast Film Festival saw over 120 events being screened over 10 days in various venues all over the city. One venue is the festival's very own Beanbag Cinema. It would seem this place still remains somewhat of a hidden gem, located in Exchange Place the alley at the back of the Duke of York Bar it's understandable! The Beanbag Cinema is probably is open mainly during the festival but also hosts a few pop-up events throughout the year. The next event will be hosted by Banterflix, a team of local film-critics and filmmakers bringing you movie reviews and news on all things cinema. In line with Free Comic Book Day the Banterflix lads will be screening the 1993 Batman animation Mask of the Phantasm on Saturday 7th May. The film will be followed by a live podcast recording and a free comic book will be given those who attend. Beanbags and comic books, what a way to revert to your childhood! To keep informed of further events check out www.belfastfilmfestival.org

@lynsmalone

lyndsaymalonedotcom

Writers on Writers Festival.

9th - 13th May. The historic Linen Hall Library hosts the festival which this year will focus on the contribution Northern Irish women had made to the literary world. Events include discussions, workshops and theatre performances.

St Georges Twilight Market

www.lyndsaymalone.com

24th & 25th May. Celebrating the NI Year of Food & Drink St Georges Market will open late with local food producers, pop-up restaurants and live music. Last year was buzzing!

Home Styling & Decor News

Dekko Bird

The brighter days and longer evenings means we’re spending more time outdoors enjoying our gardens, but what if your outside space isn’t quite as welcoming as it could be right now?

With the season of outdoor entertaining almost upon us, it’s time to give that patio or decking a little tidy up, ready for you to enjoy it as both the welcoming yet functional outside living area it should be. Read on for some easy to achieve styling ideas…

In a small backyard or patio, make full use of a corner space and create a cosy nook with a couple of chairs or a bench and small table. Up the cosy factor further by scattering a few oversized cushions and wool blankets for guests to wrap around shoulders if it gets chilly. Keep an eye out in charity shops for wicker chairs that could be prettified for use outside with a lick of paint or a new cushion. Ikea is a good choice for colourful fleece blankets that can be piled up for easy reach when needed.

Ensure the ambience remains warm and inviting outside even when the sun goes down by draping twinkly lights across a paved patio area or deck. B&Q is a good place to find strings of outdoor bulbs or alternatively hunt out your Christmas fairy lights again! Alternatively, hang little lanterns from tree branches or a fence or place tealights in old glass jars, dotting them around your patio for a cosy effect.

Refresh patio pots and planters with a selection of annual flowers, herbs, even ornamental grasses for added interest and remember you can use almost any vessel as a plant pot! Metal buckets, old teapots, wooden crates and biscuit tins can all be planted up for a colourful display; just ensure you drill some drainage holes in the base. I have also spotted second hand ceramic pots on Gumtree, so it is worth a look around.

Your outdoor space should be treated as an extension of your home and so the style you choose for it will naturally reflect that seen indoors too. Creating separate functional zones in your yard or garden will make the space infinitely more useable, seem larger and make you actually want to spend more time outside enjoying it – because that’s the whole point isn’t it? Hello, Summer!

For more outdoor styling inspiration, pop over to the blog or check out my Instagram feed @dekkobird

Follow my blog at www.dekkobird.com | twitter and instagram: @dekkobird |

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