Like magazine, June July 2015 by Carolyn Moore

June/July 2015

M A G A Z I N E

Wanderlust:

Hit the road with summerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hottest fashion and beauty

Being Beckham:

The charmed life of a perfect couple

Fertile ground:

Expert advice on prepping for pregnancy

Cork's FREE lifestyle monthly

Style / Beauty / Celebrity / Health / Food / Home

SUMMER IS HERE Get your fashion ﬁx at DOUGLAS COURT DUNNES, NEW LOOK, VERO MODA, SHOE BOX, KILKENNY, GERARD, ICON, CARRAIG DONN, VERSO, CUMMINS SPORTS, PAR SAVERS GOLF, NEXT

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c o n t en t s Bronzed beauty. How to avoid the dreaded orange streaks in your quest for a golden glow.

Billion dollar brand. The Beckhams are selling perfection, and we’re all buying.

07...................... Like it? Love it! 10 �� Gifts 13 ��Style 24 �� Beauty 40 ��Health 45 ��Homes 54 �� Food 62 �� Careers 65 ��Culture 66 ��Books 69 ��Travel 74 �� Social

Sowing the seed. Fertility expert Zita West on planning for pregnancy.

40 Town house, country house. The charming Georgian home of Michael and Eileen Flemming.

At the top of her game. The Cork-born athelete with the world at her feet.

EDITOR’S LETTER EDITOR: Carolyn Moore

Summer of Love F or the last few days, as we’ve sat in the office preparing this issue to go to print, the rain has been beating against our windows and the temperatures outside would be considered mild… for October. With the mood of the nation buoyed by our emphatic YES vote last month (we rock!), and our hearts swelled by those who came #hometovote (they rocked!) it seemed like Ireland was about to ride a wave of euphoria into the best summer ever (Ireland rocks!), and nothing could dampen our mood. Cut to the most miserable June bank holiday ever, and a week where the sandals went back in their boxes, the winter coats were dug out of storage, and umbrellas replaced sunglasses as the last thing we grabbed running out the door. It’s enough to make you want to emigrate. And yet, thinking of our “new Ireland” and the promise it holds; looking at the drenched but determined runners crossing the finishing line at the Cork City Marathon, their supporters cheering them on, despite the wind and the rain; working with an amazing community of Cork creatives and boutique owners on our gorgeous summer fashion shoot; and most of all taking in the breathtaking beauty of our west coast for the travel pages – all of these things remind me that, whatever the weather, there’s no place I’d rather be. My sister gets married this month, and I become an auntie for the first time in July, but even without all that excitement, home has always been where my heart is. So wherever this June/July of Like issue finds you (or you find it), we hope it brings a little sunshine into your day – and if it does, let us know! This is the sixth issue of Like, and it’s hard to believe that half a year has passed since we first came up with the crazy idea to produce an amazing free magazine just for the women of Cork! We have big plans in store so we’d love to hear from you, the women we do this for, about what you Like. And we know that most of all you’d probably like a really great summer, so here’s hoping that the sun shines, the sky stays blue, and these postreferendum good vibes carry us into Ireland’s summer of love.

SAY HELLO f www.facebook.com/likemagazinecork Model: Lisa Madden, Lockdown Models www.lockdown.ie

Creative contributors: Miki Barlok – Photographer Laurence Keating – Makeup artist Nicole O’Gorman – Hair stylist

Styled by Carolyn Moore Photographed by Miki Barlok www.barlokphoto.com Makeup by Laurence Keating Ph: 085 272 6514 www.facebook.com/ laurencekeatingmakeup Hair by Nicole O’Gorman using Matrix Professional Hair Care Ph: 087 912 7123 www.nicoleogormanhair.ie www.matrix.com Lisa wears top, €29, Verso boutique, Douglas Court, and necklace, €8, Penneys Special thanks to David McCarthy. To rent David’s vintage VW camper van email info@daviemacphoto.com www.daviemacphoto.com

T @likemagazine_ie

Editorial contributors: Aisling Ozdemir Bryan McCarthy

Circulation/Distibution: Media Distribution Solutions Like Magazine is published by Like Magazines Ltd., 4 Carey’s Lane, Cork, Tel: 021 4252256 www.likemagazine.ie. Company Registration number 550302.

Deputy Editor: Maria Tracey maria@likemagazine.ie

Graphic Design: Bob O’Connor

Like Magazine circulates 20,000* copies. *Publisher’s Statement.

Like Magazine Team: Editor: Carolyn Moore editor@likemagazine.ie

Advertising Account Manager Niamh Keane niamh@likemagazine.ie Ph 087-6839589 Advertising Account Manager: Anne O’Sullivan anne@likemagazine.ie Ph 087-1787993

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Like it? Love it! 1) Just browsing: We’re breaking up with our tweezers this summer! Threading promises less up keep and a better shape, and with The Body Shop now offering the service in Cork, it’s super handy too. Watch out Cara... 2) Doing time: We’re ready for the new season of Orange is the New Black, as the show returns to Netflix on June 12th. With Alex Vause returning to Litchfield, we have no doubt more Piper drama will ensue! 3) Glo With It: No one does sun-kissed like Californians, and our bargain beauty buy of the summer is LA make up brand Wet n Wild’s Mega Glo Illuminating Powder, a must-have at just €4.49 from selected Dunnes and Penneys.. 4) Vocal Goddess: Florence and the Machine are back with a new album, How Big, How Blue, How Beautiful. About

learning “how to love in the world rather than trying to escape from it” we can’t wait to escape in that heavenly voice. 5) SCIENCE of SMELL: Cult fragrance Escentric Molecules is now at Brown Thomas, with the iconic Molecule 01 priced €89 for 100ml. With just one ingredient, Iso E Super, the unisex fragrance’s effect is almost pheromonic. 6) SPRING has SPRUNG: Australian chef Skye Gyngell was best known as Vogue’s food editor, so it’s no surprise her new book, Spring, is mouthwatering and inventive in both its recipes and its design. €37.50, Easons. 7) STUNNING STATEMENT: The ‘neck’s’ big thing has to be this statement boho choker from Penneys. Dropping at the end of June it’s our go-to festival fabulous showstopper, and it’s a steal at just €5.

8) IN THE ZONE: We love a good multitasker, and Urban Decay’s new Ultimate Ozone is a handy multi-purpose pencil primer that fills, holds and corrects with one stroke. What did we ever do without it? €19, Debenhams. 9) Fashion-stocks: While already bang on trend this season, Birkenstock’s diffusion collection, Papillio, aims to go one further, combining cute prints and edgier styling with Birkenstock’s classic cork sole. €57, Walk Shoes, Paul St. 10) Pretty Perfect: If we summed up our skin care needs in two words they would be: Mission Perfection, so we’re excited to try the new Mission Perfection serum from Clarins. With a major scientific advancement and extract of cherry, it promises to correct, brighten and refine skin tone. Launches July 6th, exclusively at Brown Thomas.

uestions with… Suzanne Jackson

5) If you could have a drink with anyone, who would it be? Denzel Washington - love him! 6) If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go? The Maldives. 7) Who or what always makes you laugh? Either Dylan (especially when I’m in a bad mood) or my two doggies. They literally make me smile everyday.

1) What do you do? I am the creator of SoSueMe.ie and SOSU by Suzanne Jackson, so I’m a fashion, beauty and lifestyle blogger with a rocking product line! 2) Why do you do it? Blogging and beauty are my passion with over 1.3 million followers and a nail polish collection that sold out in four days after it launched, my career is exciting - no two days are ever the same. 3) Where do you call home? I’ve lived with my boyfriend Dylan for the last two years, but I will always call my mam and dad’s house in Skerries ‘home’. 4) Where are you right now? Sitting in my office, at my desk, surrounded by a mess of beauty products. And sipping a cup of Barrys tea, of course.

8) What’s your happiest memory? Christmas morning 1993 when I was greeted with a white hampster. I wanted one for YEARS. 9) What’s been your proudest moment? My first book becoming a Christmas best seller. I still can’t believe it. 10) Who’s the last person you texted? My agent, Mary. 11) What would you save if your house was on fire? My dogs! 12) Did you cry on your first day of school? Nope... headed on in, sat down with the rest of the kids and waved my mum off, haha! 13) Did you cry on your last day of school? YES - I made the best friends ever!

14) What was the last thing that made you cry? I never really cry, but recently I had to deal with a stressful situation and I had tears of frustration. 15) What’s your favourite thing about Cork? The shopping!!! 16) Dinner or dessert? Dinner. 17) Cupcakes or macaroons? Macaroons, 100%. 18) Twitter or Facebook? INSTAGRAM! 19) Ryan Gosling or Ryan Reynolds? Gosling! 20) Can I ask you one more question? Yes… 21) What’s the best thing ever? My boyfriend, family and friends. I wouldn’t be where I am today without them.

Suzanne Jackson is a blogger, author and entrepreneur. Her newly launched SOSU range of nail polishes, priced €7.99, are available from pharmacies and Penneys stores nationwide. www.sosueme.ie Follow: T @sosueme_ie

Best in show A focal point of summer in Cork for over 200 years now, the Cork Summer Show is Ireland’s longest running agricultural show. Taking place this year on Saturday June 20th & Sunday June 21st, a highlight of the weekend for dog lovers and revellers alike is without a doubt the Pet Dog Show. Along with a show of some of the country’s finest pedigree dogs, the Irish Kennel Club will be on hand to officiate their own competition – open to all breeds – and the Pet Dog Show allows amateurs and their pets to enter alongside their purebred counterparts. With categories including awards for best puppy — over six months and

under 12 months — best hound, best working dog, best gundog, best terrier, best Jack Russell and best veteran dog, the competition will be fierce, though hopefully the dogs won’t. More than 400 dogs (and their proud owners) are expected to compete for one of the nine titles up for grabs. Entries, costing €2, will be taken on the day from 12 noon, with showings beginning at 2pm and all proceeds going to Marymount Hospital & Hospice. The Cork Summer Show is on at the Showgrounds in Curraheen on June 20th and 21st, 9-6 each day. Admission is €15 for adults, €13 for students and OAPs, children under 12 are free. See corksummershow.com

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G I F TS

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Super moisture balm Gift Set, with face wash, shower gel and toiletry bag, €37, Clarins

Etched cufflinks by Newbridge, €39, Kilkenny

Mer & Mistral Eau de Toilette, €62, L’Occitane en Provence, Oliver Plunkett Street

Vaurnet sunglasses, prices from €150, Egans Opticians on Lavitt’s Quay

Gucci’s Dylan driver shoe, €350, Brown Thomas

Windsor slim nylon briefcase by Michael Kors, €229, Brown Thomas

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G I F TS

Police watch, prices from €69, Chic -The World of Jewellery, Oliver Plunkett Street

Maroo Woodland tablet sleeve, €39.99, Harvey Norman

Fastnet folding portable speaker by Ted Baker, €250, littlewoodsireland.ie

Leather wallet by The Bridge, €125, Hamish Hawkins, Kinsale

Saint Fin Barre’s Cathedral print by Cork–based Hurrah Hurrah, €30, Liam Russells

Golf tuition, from €50 per lesson, including lessons with a PGA Pro, at Fota Island Golf Academy. See fotaisland.ie

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Noel Deasy Cars, New Mallow Road, Blackpool, Cork. T. 021 4395024. W. www.noeldeasy.com Terms and conditions apply. Typical finance example: Rapid Limo Active 1.2TSI 90BHP OTRP €18,795. Deposit / Part Exchange €5,576.64. 36 monthly payments of €179 (Including service plan of €13.99 per month). Optional Final Payment €7,278. Total cost of credit €0. Total hire purchase price €18,795. Minimum deposit is 10%. Subject to lending criteria. This offer is made under a hire purchase agreement. ŠKODA Finance is a trading style of Volkswagen Bank GmbH Branch Ireland, authorised by the Federal Financial Supervisory Authority in Germany and regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland for conduct of business rules. Images used for illustrative purposes only. *0% APR Finance is available with selected models only on vehicles ordered between 9th May and 30th June inclusive and registered before 30th August 2015. Every effort is made to ensure accuracy, however errors may occur and specifications may change without prior notice.

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ST Y L E

Caped Crusaders What started with Gwyneth Paltrow in Tom Ford at the Oscars gained momentum with Lupita at the Golden Globes and peaked with Solange’s wedding dress, but now it’s official – capes are truly having a moment. But if you think this is a look best left to superheroes and the fashion forward, think again.

Arm Candy The exotic influence of her Chilean upbringing and time in the Philippines shine through in the colours and materials used by designer Ale Walsh. After moving to Ireland with her now husband, the pair relocated to Manila, where Ale’s fashion journey began. Since returning to Ireland, her collection has stayed true to an ethos that combines traditional craft techniques with a creative use of materials, and the result is a delectable range of sorbet coloured clutches that are utterly red carpet-worthy. Handwoven buntal straw clutch with 24ct gold plated turquoise closure, €165, and water lily clutch, €145, alewalsh.com

Phoenix Rising Like a rainbow of colour on Maylor Street, the newly opened Phoenix V store promises to become a one-stop-shop for all your occasionwear needs. With a vast collection of styles in luxurious fabrics - simple, strong and form fitting or flirty, feminine and encrusted with embellishment, there is truly something for everyone, and each style can be ordered in a range of colours and the size of your choice. Candy dress, €425. See phoenixv.ie for more.

From the high street to high fashion, capes are being incorporated into wardrobe essentials like blazers and shirts, making everyday staples into extraordinary style statements. Few are doing it better than UK brand Lavish Alice, whose crisply cut blazers and faux-wrap front trousers are the smartest separates to invest in this summer.

Main image: Monochrome stripe caped blazer by Lavish Alice, €85, Vanilla boutique, Fermoy. Yellow layered dress, €59.95, Zara.

Design First For goldsmith Tuula Harrington, forging a relationship with her customers is as important as forging her award winning jewellery pieces, and her innovative approach to design is reflected in the unique concept behind Designworks – her jewellery store, gallery and workshop space on Cornmarket Street. One of Designworks’ in-house designers, Tuula works closely with clients to create bespoke pieces or chose from the store’s collections for the ultimate personal shopping experience. Perfect for summer, the Birthstone stack ring collection is priced from €130-€230, with bespoke cuts available. Visit Designworks or see designworksstudio.ie for more.

Get Shirty When summer weather doesn’t quite live up to our expectations, it can be a challenge to rock some summer style and keep the chills at bay. This is where light cotton shirts come into their own. Dressed down with boyfriend jeans and trainers or smartened up for work with some skinnies, flats and a blazer, the humble button down has become a year round wardrobe staple. Cotton shirt by Yerse, €60, Paper Dolls, Drawbridge Street.

ST Y L E

Blue cotton mix Trilby, €27, Marks & Spencer

Paisley silk pocket square by Peckham Rye, €45, Salingers, Winthrop Arcade

Check short sleeve shirt by Fynch Hatton, €59, Fitzgerald’s, Patrick St.

Navy and gold watch by Armani, €359, Keanes Jewellers, Oliver Plunkett St.

Woven belt from Farrell by Robbie Williams, €8, Penneys

Classic navy stripe polo shirt by XVKings by Tommy Bowe, €39.99, Saville, Oliver Plunkett St.

Trousers by RJR. John Rocha, €75, Debenhams

Check summer blazer by Magee, €400, Salingers, Winthrop Arcade

Gold multi-strap sandal, €49, Office

Nonu canvas shoe by Lloyd & Pryce, €39.99, Saville, Oliver Plunkett St

Maine New England candy striped shirt, €37.50, Maine chino shorts, €34.50, and Hammond & Co. brown leather boat shoes, €97.50, all from Debenhams.

Ray-Ban Icon classic aviator shades, €202, Brown Thomas

Capri rose gingham trim shirt by A2 by André, €79.95, Gentleman’s Quarters, Patrick St.

Blue suede loafers by Collezione, €90, Marks & Spencer

Boys of Summer

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ST Y L E

The separates: Fringed kimono top with beaded neckline by Blank, €149, woven cuff, €29, and beaded bracelet, €29, all from Fran and Jane, Oliver Plunkett St. Orange highwaisted shorts by Hedonia, €44.99, Verso boutique, Douglas Court. Sandals €8, Penneys.

COME AWAY WITH ME Hit the road with summer’s holiday essentials – easy-to-wear pieces that give grown up glamour a laid back, boho vibe.

The cropped jacket: Striped jacket by Isabel Marant Étoile, €295, Brown Thomas. Chambray denim shorts by Yerse, €90, Paper Dolls, Drawbridge St. Gold wrap bracelet from Endless by Jennifer Lopez, €55, and stacked bangles by Chrysalis, from €29, Chic The World of Jewellery, Oliver Plunkett St.

The beach dress: Retro print drawstring tunic by Traffic People, â&#x201A;Ź79, Blush boutique, Douglas Village. Stone and bead pendant necklace, â&#x201A;Ź45, Fran and Jane, Oliver Plunkett St.

ST Y L E

The handy little number: Dress-it-up or dress-it-down, khaki silk tunic with beaded detail by IKKS, â&#x201A;Ź215, Paper Dolls, Drawbridge St.

ST Y L E

The maxi dress: Printed maxi by Little Mistress, €105, Verso boutique, Douglas Court. Metallic leather wrap sandals by Inuovo, €75, Vanilla boutique, Fermoy.

The day dress: Scalloped lace dress by Danity, €65, Vanilla boutique, Fermoy. Necklace by Fiorelli, €30, gold wrap bracelet from Endless by Jennifer Lopez, €55, and stacked bangles by Chrysalis, from €29, all from Chic The World of Jewellery, Oliver Plunkett St.

The party dress: Fitted dress with beaded embellishment by Needle and Thread, €230, Brown Thomas. Gold wrap bracelet from Endless by Jennifer Lopez, €55, and stacked bangles by Chrysalis, from €29, Chic The World of Jewellery, Oliver Plunkett St.

Photographer: Miki Barlok barlokphoto.com Stylist: Carolyn Moore Model: Lisa Madden at Lockdown lockdown.ie Hair: Nicole O’Gorman for Revas Spa, Woodland’s House, Adare using Matrix products. Phone Revas: 061 605120 Phone Nicole: 087 912 7123 revasspa.ie nicoleogormanhair.ie Makeup: Laurence Keating Phone: 085 272 6514 facebook.com/ laurencekeatingmakeup Photographed at Coolmain beach, with special thanks to David McCarthy. David’s lovingly restored classic VW campervan is available to rent for weddings and special occasions. Email info@daviemacphoto.com See daviemacphoto.com for more.

BEAUTY

Beauty Brief From beachy waves to a bronzy glow, your holiday beauty look should be just like you - easy, breezy and ready to travel.

Matrix Style Link Volume Fixer Hairspray, €10.99

Matrix Style Link Heat Buffer Spray, €10.99

MAKEUP “This season is about getting ‘lit from within’ skin,” says makeup artist Laurence Keating. “Layering products, particularly skincare, helps give that dewy look.” He advises keeping holiday looks “light and minimal” with BB and CC Creams, saying bronzers are essential and eyes can be layered with sparkle shadows to give a sophisticated, almost wet look. “Think pool side glamour!” Over Bobbi Brown’s Extra Repair Moisture Cream, a nourishing cream that perfectly primes skin for makeup, Laurence used Intensive Skin Serum Foundation SPF40 to achieve that stunning ‘lit from within’ effect. He defined Lisa’s eyes with a Gel Liner in Sepia Ink, and swept the iconic Shimmerbrick in Bronze over her cheekbones to highlight. “To keep the glow from the foundation and add some warmth I used Brightening Finishing Powder in Bronze Glow all over Lisa’s skin. It’s a real hero product!” he says. Bobbi Brown is available exclusively from Brown Thomas.

HAIR Hairstylist Nicole O’Gorman believes “styling should start in the shower”, so she treated Lisa’s hair with the Fiberstrong range from Matrix, before using her musthave holiday product - Matrix Oil Wonders Flash Blow Dry Oil - to enhance softness and half blow drying time. To recreate Lisa’s fabulous beachy wave, curl one inch thick sections on a one inch barrel wand, first spraying the hair with protective Heat Buffer spray, which also has a light hold element. Nicole says the key to beach waves is to wand every second section in opposite directions, leaving the last inch straight for an authentic beachy feel. “I volumised the roots with Style Link Height Riser, but I worked some through the ends too, for even more texture. I then finished with Style Link Volume Fixer spray, an amazing reworkable, volumising hairspray.” The Matrix Range is available at select salons throughout Cork.

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F E AT U R E

Natural Beauty From strawberries removing teeth stains to marigold petals plumping up the skin, Maria Tracey discovers the beautifying treats hidden in our gardens and how they could help improve our wellbeing.

e’re all familiar with the clean eating buzz that’s having a moment right now, but even those of us striving to eat whole and unprocessed foods— as close to their natural form as possible – might not be watching what we put on to our bodies as closely as we’re watching what we put in them. Clean eating could be considered more of a lifestyle choice than a diet, so if we’re going to great lengths to ensure that we’re maximising our body’s health through the food that we eat, shouldn’t we take a similar stance when it comes to our beauty products and check what kind of ingredients are being absorbed into our skin?

Beauty treatments, lotions and potions are there from the moment we fall out of our cosy beds in the morning. Toothpaste? Check. Shampoo? Check. Conditioner? Check. Cleanser? Check. Toner? Check. Moisturiser? Check. Deodorant? Check. Make–up? Check. Perfume? Check. All of that, and we’ve not yet left the house. But the problem is that many of the beauty essentials that promise perfect skin, bright white teeth and glossy hair can contain less–than–admirable ingredients that can be “ingested” into our bodies through dermal absorption. More worrying still is that in the long–term, some chemicals contained in our favourite beauty buys can start to affect our overall heath.

With ingredients like sodium lauryl sulphates, parabens and phthalates commonly listed on many of the products we slather on every day, a good rule of thumb when attempting to go “au natural” is to avoid anything you can’t pronounce. As horticulturist Fiann Ó Nualláin, known as The Holistic Gardener, outlines, skin can absorb and deliver to the bloodstream around 60% of any product it comes into contact with. The key, he says, is to ensure that what is absorbed is natural, rather than chemical. “It’s about a return to this natural beauty, a way of being less chemically dependent,” he says. “You can’t get away from some things, but you can lessen the amount of chemicals you

F E AT U R E

Photo courtesy of Tile Films Ltd.

are around.” Fiann, who has just released The Holistic Gardener: Beauty Treatments from the Garden, states that the “potential” for harvesting healing and cosmetically beneficial ingredients from the garden is “immense”. He outlines, for example, that a plant like calendula — or pot marigold — often found in people’s gardens, has always been hailed for its skin care benefits. The plant contains lutein, a carotenoid which is turned into a usable form of Vitamin A called retinol in the body after ingestion. “When you see Jane Fonda or Jennifer Anniston on television talking about their facial treatments, they have Retin-A, which builds collagen and elastin,” explains Fiann. “You can do this naturally with the calendula petals, which are edible and you can have them in a salad or put them in a smoothie. “What I also do is get the petals and put them into some olive oil and leave them in a sunny window–sill for two weeks. All the lutein and retinol secretes from the petals into the oil, which can be used as a garnish for a salad or on mushrooms, fish, and bell peppers. “That salad dressing can also be used as a nighttime serum for your skin, as it’s packed full of vitamins.” Fiann adds that olive oil, which is rich

in monounsaturated fats, most notably oleic acid, is also a great conditioning treatment for the hair and scalp. “It might sound a bit wacky, using the olive oil for your salad and then on your body but the antibacterial benefits heal the scalp along with moisturising the follicles and the hair shaft,” he says. Along with beauty alternatives for the hair and face, Fiann recommends a surprising natural substitute for toothpaste, which can often contain sorbitol and glycerin — types of sugar alcohol. That alternative is the humble strawberry, with acid that whitens the teeth, naturally lifting stubborn stains like red wine, tea, coffee and nicotine without damaging the enamel. “And strawberries are packed full of Vitamin C, so you are actually getting a health kick while cleaning your teeth in a much more natural way,” he says. For nails, rather than using nail varnishes that can contain a known carcinogen, formaldehyde, Fiann advises a cuticle treatment of olive oil and lemon juice, which will whiten and strengthen nails. Other little power plants include thyme, which makes an excellent facial wash; rosewater made from rose petals to revitalise the skin; and willow, which contains salicylic acid (the beauty industry’s latest miracle ingredient) to

cleanse and purify. “These are all products I use myself, made by plants growing all over Ireland — we are not talking about having to raid the Amazon forest, they are right there,” smiles Fiann. “I make my own herbal teas, the vast majority of my own food, and cosmetics… but there’s only so much a man can utilise. “Now, I’m not a hipster, but had to grow a hipster beard just so I could trial some of the styling wax for the moustache. I did get rid of it… by popular request.” However, Fiann states the tag that natural remedies are just for “hippies and hipsters” needs to be removed, as it all comes down to one thing… health. “People can give you whatever labels they want, but you are the one reclaiming your health. “Natural treatments often work better than their commercial counterparts and can be a fraction of the price. But it’s more than that. It’s about being natural, being true to yourself and the environment we live in,” states Fiann, before adding after a pause. “It’s about self empowerment.” The Holistic Gardener: Beauty Treatments from the Garden is priced €12.99, and available in bookstores nationwide. To win a copy, email info@likemagazine.ie and tell us why you’d love to go au natural!

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BEAUTY FEELING BLUE Strike a chord with Ombre Essentielle in Swing from Chanel (€28.50), a smouldering, starry blue that changes depending on the light. Part of the Blue Rhythm collection composed by the Chanel Makeup Creation Studio, there’s a definite electric note to the line, with shimmering eye quartets, vibrant nail colours, magnetic blue mascara, and plumping volume lip gloss.

YELLOW FEVER Let your nails take inspiration from the sun’s rays this summer with the fabulous My Yellow Fellow (€2.99) from Catrice’s Ultimate Nail Lacquer collection. Team with Ultra Stay & Gel Shine Base Coat (€3.99) and Ultra Stay & Gel Shine Top Coat (€3.99), which multiply nail lacquer performance and act as a colour magnet. Summer nails are as easy as 1, 2, 3! Available in pharmacies and Penneys stores.

BOOST THE BASE We all yearn for a radiant complexion, and that big dream could come in this small tube… Clarins Instant Light Radiance Boosting Complexion Base. It corrects skin tone, while hydrating and soothing with moisture-rich Katafray bark extract. Four shades cast a veil of corrective light on the skin: Rose brightens, Champagne corrects redness, while the limited edition Apricot and Golden Bronze warm the complexion. €30.50, O’Sullivans Pharmacies at Wilton Shopping Centre and SuperValu, Grange.

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A DIFFERENT ASPECT If there’s one country that should know about extreme skincare, it’s sun-baked Australia. Now the Aussie’s number one selling, physician–exclusive skincare line, Aspect Dr, is available in Cork. As seen on Xposé, Aspect Dr products are manufactured without harmful preservatives, dyes or perfumes and excel in the visible management of prematurely aged skin, discolourations, and imperfections. The starter kit (€140) contains Deep Clean Facial Cleanser, Aspect Dr A Serum, Aspect Dr C Serum and Resveratrol Cream. Email info@aspectskin.ie for details.

GET STEAMY It’s full steam ahead for the new MAC Wash & Dry Laundromat collection, including the limited edition Steam Heat lipstick, which really is — pardon the pun — good, clean fun. There’s no excuse for washed–out lips with this super sleek shade - a vivid yellow–red, it’s the kind of fresh hue that’s perfect for the summer chic cycle. €21.50, Brown Thomas.

HAIR CLEANSE Everyone knows about facial cleansers, but what about cleansing the hair? The new L’Oréal Vitamino Colour A:OX Soft Cleanser (€13.99) is a beauty buy you’ll wonder how you ever lived without. Sulphate free, the highly concentrated formula is creamy in texture and transforms into a generous mousse to softly release impurities from the hair fibre. Ideal for sensitive colours such as intense red and copper, it requires half the usual dose, needing just a little water to foam. That’s a few cent knocked off the water bills!

BEAUTY

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Summer is here, and with it comes the quest to achieve a bronzed goddess glow. For the savvy, it’s all about faking your way to the perfect sun–kissed look — think Cameron Diaz fresh from the surf — and banishing the dreaded orange streaks with the right preparation and tanning products. We’ve devised a foolproof plan so you too can rock a gorgeous Diaz glow. EXFOLIATE Exfoliation is key to the perfect tan. It removes dead skin cells, leaving smoother skin, which means no blotches or splotches once the tan is applied! Like loves Origins’ Modern Friction for the Body, with resurfacing rice starch, brightening scutellaria flower and softening Amazonian Cupuacu Butter to polish away dull, dead skin and reveal a silky smooth new you. €40.50, Debenhams.

MORE MOISTURE Follow the moisture mantra and be sure to make time to slather your body in moisturiser, paying particular attention to wrists, elbows, ankles, knees and feet. However, no body lotions, deodorants or perfumes should be used on the day of tanning. Indulge with Jo Malone London Wild Bluebell Body Crème. €65, Brown Thomas.

FACE TIME If you’re a bit nervous about using fake tan on your face, don’t fear as Clarins is here! The cosmetics company’s Instant Smooth Self Tanning is a clever beauty shortcut, instantly tinting the skin for a look that’s weekend-fresh and progressively develops into a gorgeous, semi–permanent sun–kissed glow. €26, O’Sullivans Pharmacies at Wilton Shopping Centre and SuperValu, Grange. GET LEGGY Banish the tights, bare legs are back. Lancôme Flash Bronzer Iridescent Self–Tanning Gel for the legs means that in a flash your pins look bronzed, smooth and iridescent. It’s also enriched with Vitamin E, for wonderfully soft skin. €30, Brown Thomas.

LIGHTEN UP Pale skin is an Irish trademark, but sometimes even Celtic cailíns yearn for a light golden hue. Enter Cocoa Brown by Marissa Carter One Hour Tan, which has gained cult beauty status since its launch in 2012. The self-tan mousse develops into a natural-looking tan in just 60 minutes and is both streak and scent free. €7.99, Penneys, and select pharmacies.

BRONZE BEAUTY If you can take a dark look, then consider Fake Bake Flawless Darker. It has three new tan boosting ingredients to making the tan even deeper... and is easy to apply and dries fast! We’re sold. €29.50 Debenhams.

SENSITIVE SKIN If you have sensitive skin, then you’ll adore St Tropez Self Tan Sensitive Bronzing Mousse. It provides the same natural-looking streak free tan you would expect from the iconic brand and is specially formulated to be gentle on skin with naturally derived tanning ingredients. €36.99, Boots.

OIL RIGHT When showering off the base layer of the tan, lather up with NUXE Prodigieux Shower Oil With Golden Shimmer. It cleans, gives a satin finish and a delicate fragrance! €12, from selected pharmacies.

Azure Jewellery has been awarded Best Wedding Jewellery and Accessory Designer of the year at the inaugural Mrs2Be Brides Choice awards for 2015, for the second year in a row. Irish wedding website Mrs2Be.ie announced the winners of their Brides’ choice awards at an exciting virtual awards ceremony and Azure Jewellery was the only business from Cork to feature amongst the prize winners. Azure Jewellery was established by Audrey in 2004 and quickly became known as a leader in jewellery design in Cork and the Munster region. Azure Jewellery also supplies jewellery to 60 stockists throughout Ireland, the UK, Canada and the US. Commenting on her award Audrey said: “We are very excited and proud to have won this award for the second year in a row, as we celebrate 11 years in business. It’s a fantastic achievement for the team at Azure. Our approach has always been to excell in customer service and it’s a great achievement for us to be recognized for this. We want to thank everyone who voted for us.

These awards are based on detailed feedback from the ‘real’ brides and grooms who visited our shop or website and purchased jewellery for their special day and we really appreciate them taking the time to vote for us.” As well as offering a full array of jewellery they also provide a specialized custom-made service. This allows their customers to design their own bespoke accessories to suit their individual requirements, not only for the beautiful Bride, but also for bridesmaids, flower girls and mother of the bride. Each piece of jewellery hand crafted at azure is designed to inspire and evoke emotion. They understand that every minute detail matters for your wedding day and create unique pieces to reflect your own identity. After 11 years in business and now two Mrs2be awards under her belt Audrey and the team at Azure Jewellery are a testament to having a customer service focused business.

5 CAREY ’ S L ANE, CORK CITY • TELEPHONE: 021-4905941 • www.azurejewellery.ie

F E AT U R E

THE DREAM TEAM As David Beckham turns 40 and Victoria turns fashion mogul, Carolyn Moore looks at the rise of the Insta-stars and the unstoppable force that is Brand Beckham. world a window into a mental breakdown nstagram is many things to many from which her career may never recover. people. From fishing for compliments Get it right, however, and social media with ‘no makeup selfies’, to the food snaps that let everyone know you eat out can show the world a side to you that they never knew existed. It’s no surprise that at least three times a week, Instagram with its endless stream of selfies and has allowed people to curate their lives for anodyne commentary about how she looks, the consumption of friends and strangers alike, and present the best side of themselves who did her hair, or what she’s wearing, Kim Kardashian’s Instagram is just a two to the world. dimensional reflection of the dull narcissism While head-in-the-toilet-bowl morning we’ve come to expect from her (though that after selfies are few and far between, Instahasn’t stopped her amassing in excess of 35 addicts will never miss an opportunity to million followers). snap a glass of Prosecco, a designer shopping But for the actress January Jones, who many bag, a boarding card, or a VIP wrist band. “My assumed was as cold, humourless and aloof life is exciting, stylish and glamorous!” is as her Mad Men character Betty Draper, what you want your Instagram to scream, and her witty and hilariously self-deprecating since most people’s lives generally aren’t, Instagram has won her countless new fans it’s no wonder that celebrities are stepping and arguably made her less likely to be up to fill that Insta-void by using the typecast as an icy blonde. She could even photo sharing app to give us mere mortals have Instagram to thank a glimpse into their genuinely fabulous lives. @victoriabeckham Instagram for her latest role in the US comedy The Last Man For celebrities, on Earth. social media can be a And as of May 2nd, tricky terrain. Some there’s a new celebrity acknowledge that Instagrammer in town. they have to have a Having amassed almost presence, and many seven million followers TV personalities are in the few weeks since contractually obliged he posted his first to maintain Twitter #wokeuplikethis selfie accounts to promote on the day of his 40th their shows, while birthday (aren’t you others swear they supposed to GET gifts will never succumb on your birthday, rather to the temptation. than give them?), David George Clooney, the Beckham has been working his Instagram archetypal movie star, has sworn off social like a pro. Using his feed to reach into the media, knowing that, at his level, it’s better hearts, minds and ovaries of his adoring to maintain some Old Hollywood-style public, we’ve been treated to suave selfies, mystique. Some celebrities hire people to witty one-liners, and most adorably of all, manage their social media presence, a move snapshots of a doting dad. that can read as cold and cynical to fans, His 50 million Facebook fans might argue while others just leap in and hope for the that he’s an established social media star, but best. there’s no doubt that he’s now joining the Get it wrong and you risk slipping several ranks of those savvy celebrities who know rungs back down the celebrity ladder. One how to mix business with pleasure. While little ill-considered Twitter tantrum can see a Facebook page is great for maintaining a a celebrity lose their fans, their credibility, professional presence, Instagram brings the their attractiveness or their work prospects personal touch, and no one has brought the in the time it takes to hammer out 140 two together more effectively than his wife of characters, and in the sad case of one time almost 16 years, Victoria. teen star Amanda Bynes, Twitter gave the

F E AT U R E @victoriabeckham Instagram

@brooklynbeckham Instagram Shiny, happy people. At a Jay Z concert with Brooklyn.

It was her growing fashion empire that brought her to social media five years ago, but only a fraction of her five million Instagram or eight million Twitter followers will ever buy anything from her über-high end luxury label. The rest stick around for the laughs – and there are plenty – and the glimpse they get into her impossibly perfect life. Like January Jones, Victoria has harnessed the power of social media and used it show people that far from being, in her words, the “miserable cow” that people expect her to be because she never smiles, she actually possesses a sharp wit and a gift for one liners that few could have imagined. But crucially, she’s also using social media to show us her level of involvement in the day to day running of her business. From her early Victoria Beckham collections, where she resisted the urge the splash the cash on big budget fashion shows, preferring instead to host intimate “presentations” where she personally talked the world’s most influential fashion insiders through every stitch and seam, Victoria has been intent on proving that she is more than just the face of her brand. As her Instagram posts illustrate, she’s the heart, soul and a substantial portion of the brains behind the operation too. Harking back to those early presentations, she still opts to connect with buyers and customers on a personal level. She makes, and of course documents on Instagram, regular appearances at luxury department stores all over the world, particularly in the rapidly growing Asian market. She has always been

@victoriabeckham instagram Even Anna loves Harper. Front row at mummy’s fashion show.

open about the fact that she and her former Spice Girls manager Simon Fuller invested a finite amount of money in the fledgling label, and that it had to grow and survive without being buoyed by her personal fortune. And it has, and while her significant name recognition has no doubt helped it along the way, for the luxury market in which she was trying to

You sacrifice a lot, I mean you cannot leave. You’re there, you’re doing eight shows a week, and you’ve only one day off.

carve a niche, the Beckham brand could have been more of a hindrance than a help. Back in 2008, when she first announced she would design a collection of dresses and show them at New York Fashion Week, fashion editors had their sharpened pencils and tongues at the ready. But to everyone’s surprise, most were forced to admit that her first collection was “beautiful, desirable and classy” – words not necessarily associated with Victoria’s fashion sense prior to that. When pressed to talk about the business she is as fluent and knowledgeable about figures and growth strategy as she is about tailoring techniques, and the steady growth of the brand recently won her the title of UK Entrepreneur of the Year from the respected business magazine, Management Today. Its editor wrote

of her “What Mrs. Beckham has created is a company that is both real and wildly successful. Her numbers are impressive, and I, for one, rather warmed to her admission that ‘first time around I felt famous, but now I feel successful’.” It’s an endearing sentiment, and that her evolution from Posh to powerhouse has played out on social media for fans to follow has made her transition from flashy WAG to fashion royalty all the more compelling. Equally endearing is the part David has played in supporting his wife’s ambitions. Effectively retired, but for endorsements and the odd multi-million pound underwear campaign, through social media David gives a snapshot of a life of luxury and leisure, but one in which being a hands-on dad is his most important job. We’ve seen him undergoing several makeovers at the hands of little Harper – “Someone is trying to make daddy feel pretty today” – as well as teaching her to ride a bike – “Look at my big girl. No stabilisers!” – and hanging out with eldest son Brooklyn, who he recently admitted he accompanied on his first date because Victoria said “That’s the only way I’m going to let him go”. Having both grown up in close-knit families, the pair have always been hands-on parents, with David never shy of being openly affectionate with his three boys. They rely heavily on their extended families for support with the hectic schedules that have made them their estimated €500 million fortune, and the sense of “one big, happy family” is ever present on their social media output. Whether it’s a video of David

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fea t ure teasing Brooklyn that he has more Facebook followers, or the whole family turning out in Team Romeo t-shirts to cheer their middle boy on in the London mini-marathon, you get a genuine sense that, of all their numerous achievements, it’s their kids the Beckhams are most proud of. From the time they got engaged, David and Victoria have always been stronger together, and for all the times the tabloids have declared them “in crisis”, no one believes they will ever split. When Brand Beckham was born, two really did become one, and sixteen years and four children later, the appetite for anything Beckham shows no sign of abating. Now, their kids are bringing the appeal of their brand to a generation too young to remember the Spice Girls or care about Man United’s Class of ‘92. For Brooklyn, with his 3 million Instagram followers, Romeo, who already has a modeling contract with Burberry, Cruz and little Harper, one thing is certain. There’s never been a better time to be a Beckham.

@victoriabeckham Instagram Fashionable family. Cruz and Romeo at Burberry.

@davidbeckham Instagram

Carolyn blogs about fashion and celebrity at thedressdown.com.

Still fit at 40. David models his Bodywear line for H&M.

Making daddy feel pretty. Harper and David.

More great news for Cork City

All Q-Park parking charges remain reduced in Cork! Q-Park introduced fairer pricing for customers in late 2014 and the good news is that prices remain unchanged in 2015. There is still an option to save even more money if you park on the roof.

Q-Park Grand Parade | €3 per hour | €2.40 per hour on the roof

Q-Park Carroll’s Quay | €3 per hour | €2 per hour on the roof

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Q-Park St. Finbarrs | €3 per hour | €2 per hour on the roof

For more information on the current prices visit www.q-park.ie/cork

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H E A LT H

Ready, set, conceive Thinking about getting pregnant? Maria Tracey talks to the experts about getting in baby–making shape.

or the most part, we women spend the majority of our adult lives trying not to get pregnant. This could be down to a multiple of reasons — work commitments, not finding the right partner, financial restraints… or simply not being ready. In fact, according to a recent HSE Perinatal report, the average age of an Irish woman giving birth is now 32.1 years, up from 30.8 years in 2004. So for those who have spent years trying to prevent something from happening, it’s odd to think about preparing to allow it, but as experts agree, achieving optimal health and optimal fertility levels often go hand in hand. So with our day to day lives being all about preparation, from the big events like wedding planning down to the mundane tasks like the weekly shopping list, it’s no surprise that once the monumental decision

is made to take the plunge into parenthood, getting pregnancy ready should be on your to-do list before any serious baby–making gets underway. Fertility expert Zita West, whose high

Smoking by both partners has an effect on ovulation and sperm count and viability profile clients included Kate Winslet, Cate Blanchett and Stella McCartney, highlights the importance of planning, albeit without diminishing spontaneity. With many women unaware of the intricacies of their menstrual cycle, as many have been on the Pill for years, she states that getting to know your body is one of the

first things to focus on. “Many women focus too much on ovulation and the egg — which can last just 24 hours — but sperm can last three to five days after sex,” she says. “If you’re having sex three times a week there’s a constant flow of sperm for when you do ovulate. That’s important. “I think a mistake women make is they also wait too long to get the Pill out of their system, and they shouldn’t. Very often you’re most fertile in those first few months.” West, who established London’s famed holistic fertility clinic The Zita West Clinic over 20 years ago, and also runs regular consultations in Cork, adds that lifestyle factors, for both partners, must be looked at too. “If you’re drinking a lot of alcohol and smoking, that’s going to impact fertility, as can weight,” she says. Indeed across the board, Cork experts are in agreement that potential

H E A LT H

It’s important to get your body pregnancy ready before baby making begins.

parents planning to conceive need to focus on their own health as a priority. Consultant gynaecologist in reproductive medicine at Cork Fertility Centre, Dr Moya McMenamin states that one of the key things pre–pregnancy is being in the healthy weight range. “Male and female fertility can decrease if someone is over or underweight,” she says. “Ideally BMI is maintained between 19 and 25, and those overweight can improve fertility and their chances of getting pregnant naturally by losing weight. Regular exercise and a balanced nutritional diet really is key.” Consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist at the Cork Women’s Clinic, Dr Barry O’Reilly reiterates that eating well and exercising are essential before pregnancy, as the nine months can place serious demands on the body. “Ligaments and muscles soften with pregnancy hormones. If you’re physically fit beforehand, you’ll have an easier time during pregnancy and afterwards,” he says. Both Dr McMenamin and Dr O’Reilly reaffirm that smoking and alcohol also impact the ability to conceive. “Smoking by both partners has an effect on ovulation and sperm count and viability,” says Dr O’Reilly. “Alcohol intake is important too and should be reduced by both parties…

surprising as alcohol is probably associated with an increased risk of pregnancy when younger!” Dr McMenamin explains that very high levels of caffeine intake have also been shown to impair fertility. “The general advice is to limit intake to less than two cups a day,” she says. She adds that women should also ensure their smears are in–date before trying to conceive, and Dr O’Reilly stresses that women on long–term medication should check with their doctor before trying for a baby, while women not vaccinated against rubella (German measles) should also be

Many women know about diet but know nothing about nutrition screened for immunity. Along with staying fit and healthy, good nutrition — again for both partners — is also key to ensuring better chances of conception and having a healthy pregnancy. In essence, the right nutrients set up the right building blocks. “Many women know about diet but know nothing

Celebrity fertility expert Zita West.

about nutrition,” says Zita. “Nutrition can make a difference in the health of the egg and sperm and once conception happens, the baby relies on reserves you’ve built up for developing.” Folic acid is, without question, an important nutrient when planning pregnancy, and dietitian at Cork Nutrition Consultancy, Michelle Lane explains women should start taking about 400µg daily when trying to conceive, and up to the 12th week of pregnancy. Ms Lane adds that building up iron reserves before getting pregnant is also optimum, as it’s hard to maintain adequate levels when pregnant as the foetus draws on the mother’s resources. “There are two sources of iron — haem and non haem. Haem iron sources include meat, chicken and fish, and are easily absorbed by the body,” she says. “If you’re a vegetarian, non heam sources are dark leafy vegetables, nuts, beans and eggs, which are harder to absorb. If you’re eating them, you need to take Vitamin C as well, like an orange, to aid absorption. “Something to include in your diet for fertility is Omega 3 fatty acids, which is also really good for the baby’s brain and eye development. Go for fresh sources — salmon, herring, and sardines.”

H E A LT H Ms Lane adds that taking Vitamin A supplementation during pregnancy is not recommended, as it can be dangerous for the foetus, however, when the vitamin is absorbed through fruit and vegetables, it’s safe. Mark Whitney of Pillar Healthcare, which produces the supplement Pre-Conceive — a unisex product with 31 key nutrients to enhance fertility — outlines nutrients such as zinc are needed for women to ensure correct egg formation, while for men it improves the form and quality of sperm. He adds N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC) is a powerful antioxidant that has a protective effect on egg quality as women age, while L-Arginine can benefit women by enhancing libido and promoting a healthy environment for implantation, and for men L-Arginine can increase sperm health and count. “These are the building blocks,” he says. “It’s so important to get people to start realistically planning for pregnancy.” The emphasis on the man and woman being in peak health when trying for a baby is something founder of the Cork Natural Fertility Clinic, Deirdre Mackesy firmly believes, as she outlines the ancient Chinese belief that the health of both parties at the

moment of conception denotes the constitutional health of the offspring. “That’s why it’s important to get to your optimal health,” she says. Deirdre adds holistic well–being is key to fertility, with acupuncture restoring balance; cranial osteopath removing

Something to include in your diet for fertility is Omega 3 fatty acids, which is also really good for the baby’s brain and eye development restrictions in body tissues; and preconception massage supporting the body’s natural reproductive rhythms. “Women nowadays are under an awful lot of pressure and life/work can get out of balance,” says Deirdre. “The holistic option is all about balancing, and bringing the body into a state of good health.”

Fertility Awareness Infertility is a growing concern in Ireland, with one in six couples having difficulty conceiving. One-third of fertility problems relate to the male, one-third to the female, and the rest are due to factors involving both partners or unexplained causes. “The effect of age needs to be recognised and female fertility does start to decline around the age of 35,” says consultant gynaecologist in reproductive medicine at Cork Fertility Centre, Dr Moya McMenamin. “Once you’ve decided to plan for a family, you should take onboard all lifestyle measures and do not let it run for years and years before seeking assistance. “If you’re under 35, certainly try for 12 months before seeking any help, but over 35, or any couple with any likelihood there could be something wrong, we’d recommend to seek advice from their GP or fertility specialist after six months of trying.”

‘pre-Conceive combined with nutritional advice improves the levels of key fertility and nutritional parameters.’ (Conclusion of the independent researchers who conducted the study)

Visit us to see the full results from this landmark study www.pillarhealthcare.ie

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PHONE: 021 - 4893251 Link, Cork ssllsliiM 0031Mills 103 Patricks lM liMnneenllSt. eloololooW oWsskkscckiircrttiaarWoollen tPPSouth aP..ttSS .tS33City W 101 www.style25interiors.com Tel: 021-4310000 • Fax: 021-4310003 ..kkr.rkooDouglas, ,,ssa,asllgagulugoouCork. DDoD rCCoC 44

Email: eeii.e.kkiStyle25@outlook.ie o.okoinfo@obcork.ie 225ee2llyeyttlSyS•tSwww.obcork.ie o5 @ oolltotuultoou@ @ 5Woollen 103 St. Patricks Mills Douglas, Cork. Style25@outlook.ie

Unit 6, Mayfield Business Park Youghal Old Road, Mayfield, Cork T: 021 450 97 74 E: sales@slideco.ie W: www.slidedeco.ie

HOMES Tile style How many times have you wandered around a little village in Spain or Portugal and wondered if you could smuggle a box of tiles home in your Ryanair hand luggage? Well wonder no more, because the Vives World Parks collection at Tubs & Tiles brings that eclectic Mediterranean flavour right into your home, minus the excess baggage charges. With a selection of mixed patterns in different colourways, the designs are named for the international parks they were inspired by, with the warm terracottas and porcelain blues evoking those sunny holiday towns, while the monochrome collections have a 19th century charm. Tubs & Tiles, Curragh Road.

Food to go If you can’t bear to leave your barbeque behind when you plan for a picnic, and soggy egg sandwiches leave you longing for a juicy burger, this is the answer to your summer prayers. The Calor Mini BBQ is a handy and gorgeous little contraption that will look the part alongside your retro picnic basket. Simply hook it up to a gas canister (stored in the base), take off the top (which doubles as a chopping board) and throw another shrimp on the barbie. €169.99, Woodies.

Pod people Call it the cape of homewares, but the knitted pouffe is having a moment, and it’s little wonder when these unassuming little pods are such hard working home accessories. Adding both a pop of colour and some interesting, organic texture to your living space, they also do double duty as a footrest or some extra seating, and firmer pod designs can even serve as a side table or laptop rest. Aqua pod, €96, Next; yellow pod, €68, Meadows and Byrne; cream pod, €85, littlewoodsireland.ie.

Chill out We’re all for bringing the outdoors in, but when we want fresh air streaming in through wide open windows, we’re not huge fans of the insects that come with that lovely, cooling breeze. Invest in a powerful Dyson fan and you won’t have to risk life and limb swatting them away, and these remarkably quiet coolers won’t keep you awake at night either. We love a strong, silent type. Circular fan cooler in black and nickel, €349.99, and tower fan in silver and blue, €399.99, from Soundstore, Wilton, Blackpool and Oliver Plunkett St.

Tapped out There simply isn’t an easier way to smarten up a tired looking bathroom than by investing in some shiny new taps, and they don’t come more stylish than the Noken range from Porcelanosa, now available at OB Cork. From Noken’s sanitaryware right through to their innovate showers, the entire collection showcases the brand’s singular dedication to impeccable design. If a full bathroom refurb isn’t on the cards right now, whet your appetite with the gorgeous Chelsea faceted taps, in silver, pewter, gold, copper and trendy rose gold. €359, OB Cork, South Link Rd.

HOMES

A Georgian Gem Tucked away in leafy Tivoli, is the impressive Georgian home of Michael and Eileen Fleming. Maria Tracey explores the historic gem that’s a testament to the couple’s ambitious vision. Photographs by Miki Barlok

Michael and Eileen Flemming relax in their spacious and airy kitchen.

hen Michael and Eileen Fleming stumbled across what is now their home, they knew instantly they had found “the one”. “I thought I landed in heaven when I landed in a house like this,” gushes Eileen. Their home is certainly worthy of such high praise, an historic Georgian house, built around 1790 by a prominent Cork merchant. For Eileen, the beauty of the house lies in the architecture, and the building speaks for itself. “I love really good structure,” she says, “even very modern buildings. Everything looks well if the actual structure is correct, with the right ceiling height, and right proportions. “Of course the Georgians were very

good at that, that’s their forte. Their windows are the right proportion for the size of their rooms.” The beauty of the building was evident to Eileen and Michael the moment they discovered it in 1989. Eileen and Michael, both from West Cork originally, were living in London at the time — Michael was chef at the Ritz Hotel — and were back in Cork for a family holiday. “We were driving to Rosslare for the ferry, and we saw the For Sale sign,” explains Eileen. “We were thinking about going out on our own, and actually had our eye somewhere in Turnham Green. However, my mother was getting elderly, so when we were back home again two months later and it was still

for sale we thought, ‘sure we’ll go and have a look’.” Having fallen in love with the house, the couple set about painstakingly restoring it to its original glory, creating a dual purpose dwelling — a family home for them and their two daughters, Hannah and Sarah, and what is now Flemings Restaurant and Guesthouse. Some treasures were already on show, such as the beautiful, delicate cornicing, while others were hidden, like the Georgian floor tiles in the entrance hall. “The floor was covered in carpet, and we had no idea it existed,” says Eileen. “We must have been on our hands and knees for 11 days trying to get the carpet up.”

HOMES

A beautifully proportioned Georgian window floods the landing with light.

Simple and classic, Michael and Eileen source interesting pieces they love.

The original Georgian floor tiles were painstakingly uncovered in the hallway.

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HOMES Equally the five–acre garden was rambling, and near unworkable. “It was terrible, absolutely overgrown,” say Michael. “We had a young guy up looking for a summer job, and I took him to the corner of the garden, which was all brambles and briars, and asked him to work away — cut, cut and it’ll die behind you.” They unearthed a picturesque outdoor space, with each area having a purpose, from the terrace, where Eileen enjoys reading, to the large vegetable patch where Michael grows food for the restaurant. Dotted around the gardens are splashes of colour from pink peonies and striking foxglove,

which Eileen uses in arrangements throughout the house to create a light and fresh feel. Back inside the impressive building, the couple were intent on clean lines and minimum fuss, an approach that’s reflected in their decorative choices. A large number of pieces were bought at the renowned Lots Road Auctions, which appeared in Channel 4’s The Auction House. “We used to go before it became trendy,” laughs Eileen, “and would come home with a lovely job lot.” Michael recalls that he once accidentally purchased bow windows from an old pharmacy at one of the

auctions (he sold them a few weeks later and made a profit), and on another occasion he cleaned up when a gas explosion on King’s Road kept everyone in their homes. “About 10 people were at this auction, not even a buyer there,” explains Michael. “They couldn’t make the reserve price, and the auctioneer came up to me afterwards and said ‘look, you were the under bidder for this, could you give me 10 quid more?’ and I was very lucky to get some great pieces.” And walking through their home, the spoils of these auctions are on display, with some of their favourite finds being the mirrors and candelabras

Eileen enjoys a book on the terrace.

Making a grand entrance into the home’s elegant and classically furnished hallway.

Once rambling and unworkable, the garden is now a picturesque haven.

Unit 10, Block D, Euro Business Park, Little Island, Cork t: 021 4297500 m: 087 9124771 e: info@dlkitchens.ie

OPENING HOURS: MON - FRI: 9AM - 5.30PM SAT: 10AM - 2PM

www.davidlanekitchens.ie

HOMES

Their clean and uncluttered interior style is evident throughout the house.

In their neutral but cosy living room a fire is always burning.

Auction finds are showcased in a classically styled guest room.

in the restaurant. The French 19th century Louis XVI mirrors were bought in Francis Street in Dublin, and are towering additions to the room, while the delicate, leaf embellished candelabras are Italian, and date around 1870. “Wherever I’m going, they’ll be going too,” says Eileen with a smile. A pièce de résistance are the 1877 beautiful watercolours, framed in satin and depicting a garden design. “We think they are Italian and I just love everything about them,” she says. “Even if you had a very modern,

minimalist house, you could find a place for those.” And this philosophy is key to the overall interior style of the house, as Eileen and Michael work with pieces they love, keeping it simple and classic at all times. “I’m not a clutter person,” reveals Eileen. “I like Biedermeier furniture, which is very simple.” The clean lines are perhaps most evident in the family’s private quarters, with a neutral but cosy sitting room, and a spacious kitchen. The fire, burning bright in the elegant fireplace even during the summer, tells of life

in an old house, which are notoriously hard to heat. “Living in a house like this means wearing the correct clothing, as anyone who has been brought up in an old house will tell you!” laughs Eileen. This positivity is at the core of the Fleming’s outlook, and the blood, sweat and tears it took to achieve their ambitious vision for the house has resulted in something very precious — a Georgian gem. For bookings and enquiries see flemingsrestaurant.ie

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HOMES Even the most compact garden can have a cosy seating area. Loveseat, €179, Hanleys of Cork.

Keep cushions and accessories dry with rattan weave cushion boxes by Kettler, now stocked at Ballyseedy Home & Garden.

Brighten up walls and fencing with Green Pockets hanging planters, €24.99, Ballyseedy Home & Garden.

Invest in furniture that’s made to withstand the elements without sacrificing style, like the Newport bench, €179, and outdoor dining table, €359, from Meadows and Byrne.

Garden State With summer here, don’t let the state of your garden stop you enjoying balmy evenings outdoors or having friends around for some al fresco food. With some stylish furniture and clever use of pots and accessories, even the unruliest of gardens can be made to bloom. Smart storage and weatherproof finishes are key to transforming any garden into an inviting living space at the first sign of sunshine, and easy-to-grow potted plants bring low maintenance colour and greenery to your patio in an instant.

The weather resistant Lakena lounge set from Kettler comes with cushions and a glass topped table for instant relaxation. €1450, Ballyseedy Home and Garden.

Create an instant focal point and seating area with Cathedral circular patio, €269, Co-Op Superstores.

Keep pests at bay by lighting Citronella candles. Citronella Slate candle, €5.75, Home Focus at Hickeys.

Weatherproof rattan weave is not just a popular choice for garden furniture, as the Rochelle Vase Set, €119 from Caseys, shows.

HOMES Enjoy the lazy days of summer in this striped hammock, €15, Tiger.

A practical splash of garden colour – freestanding banana parasol, €99.99, rattancube.ie

Garden makeovers don’t have to cost the earth, with cute accessories like these hanging plant pots, €4, Harvey Norman. Leave the garden outside. Halfmooon doormat, €77, Pavillion Garden Centre.

Go potty – for an insta-garden, use colourful planters for shrubs and flowers. Stockholm planter, €19.99, Co-Op Superstores.

Reduce the chill factor with a stylish outdoor fireplace. Albacete fireplace, now €199.99, rattancube.ie

From garden to plate – easy to grow potted herbs and leaves like rocket, chives and mint will brighten a windowsill or patio and add freshness to your salads.

F OO D

From Farm to Fork

Glass act

We’re all aware of the benefits of using local suppliers — traceability, freshness, and reduced ‘food miles’. So here are our picks of some of the best dining destinations sourcing raw ingredients locally.

Step away from the sauvignon blanc and pass on the pinot noir, it’s time for something different! Maria Tracey looks at three Cork eateries setting themselves apart with their alternative alcohol choices. PROSECCO at BASTION It’s summer, and time to sparkle, so enjoy a glass of fizz with the innovative concept of prosecco–on–tap at Bastion in Kinsale. Their delectable Conegliano Valdobbiadene is light and sweet, and can be enjoyed au naturel for €6.75, or with house–made ingredients like blueberry sherbet and white peach for a delicious cocktail or aperatif. 021 470 9696 for bookings.

CORNSTORE Sometimes with restaurants, style and substance are mutually exclusive, but the Cornstore has conquered both, with a great setting and great food. With their own garden in Limerick, they also use local Cork suppliers, and their must–try dish is the crisp duck leg confit. To book call 021 4274777.

NASH 19 Pass Nash 19 at 6.30am and you’ll smell fresh scones — made with organic butter milk from McCarthy’s in Macroom — baking, while Denis from K O’Connell’s might be delivering fresh fish. For a local lunch, try the English Market tasting plate of meat, fish and cheese, with a homemade lemonade. To book call 021 4270880.

RESTAURANT 14A From Douglas to French Church St… 8 kilometers is how far the herbs and vegetables used at Restaurant 14A travel. The eatery’s Moneygurney allotment is part of its ethos to supply fresh and local. Try the oven baked cod from K O’Connell with delicious stir-fried vegetables. To book call 021 4276457.

CAFE PARADISO At Cork’s vegetarian gem, Cafe Paradiso, the dishes sing with quality raw ingredients sourced from GortNa-Nain Farm near Nohoval. The jewel in their summer menu is the squash flowers with ricotta–pea stuffing, smoked peperonata and polenta cakes, with flowers grown especially for Cafe Paradiso. To book call 021 4277939.

CIDER at LONGUEVILLE HOUSE At just €3.99, this 100% natural, medium dry artisan cider from the hotel’s own orchards in the Blackwater Valley will be the apple of your eye. Hand made, it contains no artificial sweeteners, sulphates, additives, colourings or preservatives. It’s 5% ABV, is ideal with fish and meat, and is best drunk well-chilled with no ice. 022 47156 for bookings.

LAGER at ELBOW LANE A restaurant, a smokehouse, and a nano-brewery, this Oliver Plunkett St eatery is perfect for the wine weary. Its Elbow Lager is refreshingly summer appropriate, owing its flavour to barley malt and a generous hop bitterness. At 4.4%, it costs €4.90, and suits the lighter dishes on the menu. A tasting tray of three house beers and olives is €9.50. 021 239 0479 for bookings.

F OO D

Loving local

Ingredients

Love local ingredients? Create this exceptional starter at home with Cork’s finest, Ardsallagh Goats’ Cheese, and the expertise of Bryan McCarthy, head chef of the stunning Greenes restaurant. Ardsallagh Goats’ Cheese with Salt Roast Beetroot

• 400g Ardsallagh Soft Goats’ Cheese • 100g panko breadcrumbs • 1 egg • 100ml milk *For the • 1 tbsp plain flour pickling liquid • Salt and pepper  300ml cider • 2 medium golden beetroots  vinegar, 200ml • 2 medium candy stripe beetroots water , 100g • 2 medium red beetroots sugar,  10g salt, 1 • 200g course sea salt bay leaf,  1 juniper • Oil for deep frying berry, 3 fennel • Pickling liquid * seeds,  4 black • 30g walnuts, toasted  pepper corns

Beetroots Peel one each of the golden, candy stripe and red beetroots and then thinly slice using a mandolin. Lay the slices on  a roasting tin and place in a preheated oven at 60°c for  12 hours to dehydrate. When ready to serve, deep fry the beetroot slices in hot oil at 125°c for two minutes until crisp. Put a layer of sea salt in a roasting tray and place the remaining beetroots on top, then roast them in a preheated oven at 160° for 1 hour. When cool enough to handle, rub the skins off and cut them into cubes, reserving the trimmings. Pour over the hot pickling liquid and allow to cool. Blend the trimmings in a food processor with a little of the pickling liquid to make a smooth purée.

Goats’ cheese Prepare to fry half the goats’ cheese by rolling 200g of it into four balls. Place the egg with the milk in a small bowl and beat well. Dredge the cheese balls in the flour, then dip into the egg and roll in the panko to fully coat. Deep fry in hot oil at 180°c until golden. Drain on kitchen paper, season well and keep warm. Form the remaining 200g of goats’ cheese into quenelles  by dipping a large spoon into very hot water and dragging the spoon across the cheese towards you so it curls with the shape of the spoon. Serve as illustrated.

We are excited to invite you to Bastion Kinsale’s newest restaurant. Paul & Helen welcome you to experience all Bastion has to offer..... Exceptional food in the heart of Kinsale, relaxed atmosphere, drinks and all parties catered for. Kinsale’s only restaurant with Prosecco on tap. Classic flavour pairings executed with modern techniques by our head chef and proprietor Paul McDonald. Absolutely everything prepared fresh in house.

Paul has honed his skills working in some of Ireland & the UK's best restaurants such as Michelin starred Tom Aikens and Aiden Byrne's, to the fast paced environments of the 5* Adare Manor hotel Co. Limerick to the 5* Westbury hotel in Dublin.

Corner of Market St & Main St, Kinsale, Co Cork. • 021

4709696 • Email: helenbastion@hotmail.com

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Wed - Sat 5pm- late Sunday 12pm-9pm

family

Seize the summer School may be out for the summer but for modern day kids, the long days can often be spent in front of a computer screen. With concern about an obesity epidemic, we looked at how the coming weeks could be used to shape a healthier future for our children.

family

ife today is quite different to how it was a few decades ago. Back then the summer holidays offered limitless possibilities and adventures, with days spent outside until the last drop of sunlight disappeared. However, times have changed. Nowadays, children can experience a decrease in activity levels during the school holidays as routines lapse, ice–cream trucks circle estates, and overworked parents are too busy and too scared to let their children out of the house. The draw of the iPad can become all too alluring. But there’s a stark warning in place for the children of the 2010s to shape up, as a now well–publicised study by the World Health Organisation suggests that within the next 15 years, 89% of Irish men and 85% of Irish women will be overweight. Almost half of men and 57% of women are predicted to be obese by 2030. Coming into the summer holidays, these frightening statistics drive home the importance of young people getting active and eating well. According to Dr Muireann Cullen of the Nutrition and Health Foundation (NHF), children need 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous intensity physical activity every day. “Light physical activity is being able to sing whilst doing it,” she explains. “Moderate is being able to talk and vigorous is huffing and puffing. Something like a simple game of chasing, where the kids are running hard after each other, will get the heart pumping and muscles working.” The key, says Dr Cullen, to ensure children get in the recommended one hour of exercise daily is to make it fun. “You can tell kids ‘this is great for your health’ and they’ll say ‘is it fun or not?’,” she laughs. “Their perspective is all about having fun. It’s about finding out what activities they’re interested in, and getting them to come up with ideas.” A way of doing this is to allow choice, getting the young person to pick out an activity that they would enjoy, along with the rest of the family. “You can set ground rules, such as ‘it has to be free’ or ‘has to be outdoors’,” says Dr Cullen. “By encouraging them to make the decision, they are more in control, more responsible, and are more eager to do it.” She adds that teenage girls, who might often avoid exercise, could be encouraged to take up yoga or Pilates. “Although ideally it’s best to get the heart rate up, physical activity doesn’t have to be all running around the place. What’s really important is doing something. Even dance mats or Wii Fit could be ideal… outdoors is better but our weather doesn’t always allow for that,” smiles Dr Cullen.

And summer activities also don’t have to cost a penny, with a world of resources available on our doorsteps in Cork. “All they need is a tennis racket and ball and they have a rounders game or we would use a jumper on the ground as goal posts,” she says. “Or go for a cycle, especially with the different cycling paths out there now.” Aside from the obvious perks of

Within the next 15 years, 89% of Irish men and 85% of Irish women will be overweight physical exertion, Dr Cullen points out that activities can also have more far reaching benefits. “You have the socialising aspect of it as well, and communication. With online games, young people can communicate with each other while playing, but they are not necessarily getting to know the other person — you just know them as Warrior X. Getting outside and communicating is key, and that’s how friendships develop,” she says. “With most games, they are also learning hand–eye coordination and how to work as part of a team, so leadership skills can start to be developed.” Physical activity also allows for routine. While sticking to the school year schedule may be a touch optimistic and unrealistic, a consistent routine is still essential during the summer. “Children feel better, sleep better, and concentrate better after physical activity,” says Dr Cullen. A need for structure is also important when it comes to nutrition, as the school holidays can lead to irregular eating patterns. “Having and sticking to a routine is important so the body knows when to expect food,” says Dr Cullen. “Teenagers can sleep through the morning and then wake–up at lunchtime, essentially skipping a meal. Occasionally this is fine, but if it’s happening on a regular basis then they are going to be down on nutrition and calories consumption, things needed to function. So it’s important to have that routine.” Dr Cullen suggests that getting children involved in cooking at a young age puts the ground work in place for future healthy eating. “Even when a baby is weaning, you can talk them through what you’re doing. For example, they see an apple, and are given apple purée, and they begin to make the association between the two — that this isn’t a ‘new food’, it’s

something they have seen before,” she explains. “Also, if you get kids to cook meals, they’re more likely to eat them. Get them involved and think about food from a nutritional point of view, and link it to the activities they’re interested in, like rugby for example. It highlights the importance of nutrition and a balanced diet through practical means, and gives an understanding as to what are carbs, and what is protein. “A great time to start this is the summer, as kids have more time and often the parents may have too. Time is precious during the school term, getting home from work, trying to get everyone fed, bringing the children to football or swimming, and getting the homework done means there’s pressure there the whole time. But in the summer, it’s a bit more relaxed to start the process and over time, you can hand over the cooking of the dinner once or twice a week to a teenager. “If the parents are working during the summer there is no reason the kids can’t take over some of the roles. Older kids are always looking for responsibility, and this is giving it to them in a measured amount. Also it means for them that in the long term, when they are away at college, they know how to boil an egg, or what to do with a piece of meat.” So with the alarming WHO report indicating that today’s youth are heading down an unhealthy path, this summer is the perfect opportunity to make a difference and ignite a passion for fitness and healthy eating that could last a child a lifetime.

family Top picks of active places to visit in Cork on the (hopefully) sunny days ahead. ADVENTURE TIME: Based on Glenbradagh farm in Upper Aghada, Midleton, East Cork Adventure Centre has fun activities like a Bogstacle course, kayak games and crazy golf. Adventure assured! eastcorkadventurecentre.ie GO WILD: Spot the cheetahs, admire the zebras, be amazed by the gibbons, and gaze at the giraffes. At Fota Wildlife Park, kids can roam and run around 70 acres. It’s an activity that’s both educational and fun. fotawildlife.ie BRILLIANT BEACHES: Cork’s beautiful beaches are there to be utilised. Garrylucas, Inchydoney, Owenahincha, Barleycove and Tragumna recently retained Blue flags while Garretstown and Redbarn regained theirs. Go swimming, build sandcastles, play football or toss a frisbee. PARK LIFE: Both adults and children alike will revel in the beauty of Gougane Barra National Park. Pick a family friendly walk on one of the marked trails in 350 acres of forestry, and bring a picnic as a treat. GO ‘FORT’: Camden Fort Meagher’s Bright Tunnel descends 160 feet from the top of the fort to the bottom while the Granite Spiral Stairway has 100 steps. This little slice of history in Crosshaven is a fun a way to introduce physical activity into family time. camdenfortmeagher.ie

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family

Daddy’s Girl

by Aisling Ozdemir

ith Father’s Day approaching on June 21st it’s our annual reminder that it’s not as easy to buy for the men in our lives as it is the women. The same goes for praising them, but I’d like to try to pay tribute to an unsung hero… my Dad, Damo - a gentle, kind man with a sharp brain and his light planted firmly under a bushel. My Dad is exceptional (and I’m not in the least bit biased). He has always been a solid rock of support for my sister and me. No man was ever going to live up to the precedent he set, and the men we married are reminded about that frequently (and they agree). As kids, if we heard the words “Wait till your father gets home”, we’d roll our eyes and giggle, whereas if we knew our mother was on the warpath, we’d start looking for alibis. A classic Dad, he would go out to work Monday to Friday and spend weekends wallpapering or breaking down a wall, with my Mum directing wildly from the sidelines like a crazed Anna Ryder-Richardson.

Here are some of the reasons I love him; • When I got bitten by a dog at 12, he calmly held the wound together till we got to the hospital and it subsequently didn’t need stitching. He also managed to calm my hysterical mother, who was driving, and keep me from passing out with shock all the way. • He taught me how to wire a plug and which wire was the live one (brown), although he should’ve heeded his own advice as I witnessed him getting electrocuted several times.

bucking corner-reversing. He lost his cool and I ended up crying, but he didn’t give up and mere minutes before my driving test we cracked it. He was waiting at the test centre for the good news and the best hug ever. • He thinks all problems can be fixed with a drink. I tend to agree. • He calls everyone Mickey, and if they’re lazy he’ll say “pull the finger out, Mickey”. I don’t know why.

• I learnt how to swear from him, although he replaced all the Fs with Bs, so it was “bucking this” and “buck that”.

• He’s an expert exaggerator who’ll start a story with “there were thousands there!” I’ll say “Dad?” He’ll say “Ok… maybe hundreds”. And after some goading, he’ll admit it was him and two others. I may have inherited this trait.

• He taught me to drive. It was only a few years ago, and he took over from my husband who’d washed his hands of me and my

• He’s a hypochondriac. I’m not denying his chronic back pain, his brush with prostate cancer or his hip issues, but you honestly

can’t tell him about any illness without him adopting the symptoms. When I was in early labour at my parents’ house in 2008, my Dad started to complain of stomach cramps. Thank God he’s a technophobe, because Google would mess with his head and his pension would be spent on countless invasive tests and scans. • Kids love him. He’s always been a messer, the kind of uncle who would feign putting some of my cousins in the washing machine. He would chase me and my sister to bed, turning off the lights and making scary noises as we howled in terror. He’d also dangle us over the banisters, which could explain the bad back. He is my 7-year-old’s hero, so much so that he dressed up as him for Halloween, sporting his signature white hair, moustache and leather jacket.

• He has copious amounts of patience, as my Mum will testify. In a family of hot-heads and hormones he is the voice of calm and reason, and if his voice is raised we all pipe down knowing we’ve definitely gone too far. • He is a voracious reader and reads two to three books a week. He may not remember what any of them are about, but I’ve him to thank for my love of books and my passion for Stephen King. So thanks Dad, for that and for my red hair and freckles; my openmind, my profanity, and my proficiency with plugs. You’re my son’s hero and you’re my hero, and I hope this is adequately conveyed by the socks and hankies I got you.

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Photos: Phil Darko of Darko Photography. darkophotography.co.uk

ith gyms and fitness centres all over the country suddenly adding “pole classes” to their schedules, you could be forgiven for dismissing pole sport as just the latest passing fitness fad. In fact it’s been around for almost 800 years. The phallic nature of the pole can’t be denied, and indeed it was as a fertility ritual that Indian women engaged in pole dancing as far back as the 12th century. By the 19th century, Chinese gymnasts - mostly male - were using both vertical and horizontal poles in their routines, and while the horizontal bars have gone on to become an Olympic gymnastics sport, the vertical pole took on a slightly different connotation. While many performers enjoy using the pole for a variety of fitness styles, from dancing to acrobatics to burlesque, for the world’s elite pole athletes it can be frustrating to find the pole so frequently associated with

strip clubs. “I think people really don’t realise what is involved in pole, and how much training you need to be really good,” says Terri Walsh, the Cork-born pole athlete who, with her doubles partner Lisette Krol, recently retained her World Championship title for the third year running. Anyone who has seen the pair perform will appreciate the incredible mix of strength, endurance, grace and agility it takes to compete at that level, and as the international pole community campaigns for it to be made an Olympic sport – a bid that Walsh fully supports, pointing out that “a lot of parallels can be drawn between pole tricks and gymnastics” – there’s no question that, nationally, it’s a sport that’s growing in popularity. “Calisthenics as a form of training has exploded,” explains Terri, “and pole is one of those sports that encourages people to use their own body weight as a training tool. People see how toned and fit pole athletes become, so it’s

F E AT U R E

Pole Position From Britain’s Got Talent and the Late Late Show to the World Pole Championships, Cork-born athlete Terri Walsh is a fierce ambassador for the sport she loves. Find out more to see if pole could be the sport for you.

Flying the flag for Fierce Fitness. Strong is the new sexy for pole athlete Terri Walsh.

definitely appealing from a fitness perspective.” But there’s more to its growing popularity than just fitness, she acknowledges with a smile. “Pole dance is intriguing and a little bit taboo for many women, so coming to try it out is always exciting. Then they get hooked!” she laughs, as she herself knows this only too well. “I wanted to try pole for fitness,” she says of her early experience with the sport. “At the time, I was 21 and working in a global bank in Dublin. I wanted to change up my routine! I took some classes at the International Dance Academy and a few months later they asked me to teach beginner level pole for them!” She points to her own progression in the sport as proof that anyone can do it, and says that wannabe polers should “sign up to a beginners class! Don’t hesitate or wait for your friends - I started by myself and I’m so happy I did! You gain the fitness and strength from actually doing the classes.

Terri and boyfriend Michael Donohoe, his and hers Pole Champions of Ireland.

“Teaching Pole was just the first step for me… it was a good few years before I started competing, and a few more years before I started training really hard for World Championships. It was a slow and organic progression!” And it’s a progression that typically sees polers lose weight, build muscle, develop flexibility and grow in confidence as their newfound physical strength and agility makes them look and feel amazing. It’s also, Terri says, a close knit community where friendships are made and everyone is encouraged. “The Irish community in particular is so small, so we’ve all known each other for years! It’s wonderful to be a part of such a big group of friends.” These days Terri’s reputation takes her around the world teaching masterclasses, and at her studio in Maynooth she introduces curious men and women, and children as young as five, to a fitness practice that could change their lives. One of those students is

now her boyfriend, and a year into his training Michael Donohoe won a male Irish pole sport title to match Terri’s female one. Now with multiple national and international titles under her belt, and a burgeoning fitness empire in the form of her “Fierce Fitness” dance studios - where Michael also teaches - it’s clear that pole is taking Terri – who performs as Terri Fierce – exactly where she wants to go. “I always believed I could have my own studio, and that came from my own love of the sport. It’s the best job in the world!” she gushes. As strong becomes the new sexy, this poler is leading the charge. Follow Terri on Instagram, T@terri_fierce, and find Fierce Fitness Dance Studio on Facebook. For pole classes in Cork, try Mi.Fitness, Ballincolling (mi-fitness.ie) or Foxy P.Cox, Mahon (ph. 086 065 5266).

Contact our Home Expert: Seamus on 021-4224843 | Email info@mig.ie | Go online at www.MIG.ie Call in to see us at: 2 South Mall, Cork City, Fermoy, Mitchelstown, Skibbereen, Bantry or Dunmanway Charles McCarthy Insurances Ltd t/a McCarthy Insurance Group is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

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What’s the

plan? Fancy a night out? Stuck on ideas? Here’s your guide of what’s going on...

HELLO... Is it Lionel Richie you’re looking for? If it is, then you’re in luck as the five-time Grammy winner and international superstar returns to Live At The Marquee on Saturday, June 27th. The gig is part of his All The Hits All Night Long tour, and songs will include anthems like Dancing On The Ceiling, Hello, Three Times A Lady, and All Night Long. Tickets are €70.45/ €81 at ticketmaster.ie.

EXQUISITE EVANS Love Ella Fitzgerald and Billie Holiday? Then you’ll adore Jennifer Evans, one of Ireland’s most distinctive female vocalists, who skillfully combines jazz, blues and dark folk influences into a unique style. Her long-awaited debut album, Works From The Dip and Foul, was released last year, showcasing a songwriting style that’s both lyrically rich and ambiguous. Her voice is irresistible and her live performances captivating - catch her at Sirius Arts Centre in Cobh on Saturday, June 27th. Tickets €12, siriusartscentre.ie. SPREAD YOUR WINGS What makes Wallis Bird so fascinating? It could be her style of playing the guitar, a standard right–hand guitar played left, that gives her a special sound. It could also be her attitude. That raw energy, ecstasy, and passion, she pumps into every performance, which has to be experienced. Few can enrapture an audience the same way, going from delicate whispers to explosive cries in a heartbeat. She plays Coughlans Bar on Friday, June 26th. Tickets €20, coughlans.ie. SUPER SUPPER If you fancy a spot of supper theatre, pop along to Cork Arts Theatre from Thursday, July 2nd to Saturday, July 4th, to witness Cora Fenton, star of TV3’s drama, Deception, act in a pair of darkly comic gems. In Arsehammers, a child is sure their grandfather’s disappearance reveals supernatural powers, while Bonfire Night sees a mother’s hip operation set off a chain of events. Tickets are €20, including supper at 8pm, a glass of wine and the show. BOLD AS BRASS One hundred musicians will take to the stage to create powerful sounds of brass, saxophone and percussion, in what promises to be one of the most exciting highlights of this year’s Cork Midsummer Festival. The outdoor performance of Bold as Brass on Sunday, June 21st — the longest day of the year— will be held at the historic Elizabeth Fort. Composed by UK saxophonist Jason Yarde, the show runs 4.30pm, 6pm and 8pm and free tickets are available at corkmidsummer.com.

LITERARY JOY If you didn’t get a ticket for Graham Norton’s sold-out talk at the West Cork Literary Festival in Bantry, fear not, as the event has more delights in store. David Nicholls, author of One Day, will read from his Man Booker Prize nominated novel Us at the Maritime Hotel on Monday, July 13th (8.30pm, €16) while the festival also hosts award–winning investigative journalist Nick Davies — who exposed the UK’s phone-hacking scandal — on Wednesday, July 15th (8.30pm, €18). See westcorkliteraryfestival.ie.

THE MAGIC NUMBER When three adult men pull a child’s fishing net over their heads, transforming themselves into a whole new race of ‘net people’, you know you’ve entered into something quite bizarre. However, Dublin comedy group Foil, Arms and Hog are seriously funny, and it’s little wonder that critics have dubbed the magic trio a ‘powerhouse of sketch comedy’. They hit City Limits Comedy Club on Friday, July 31st with doors at 9pm. Tickets are €18/€15.

books

beach BAG BOOKS Like strawberries and cream, Victoria and David, Chardonnay and Brie; summer holidays and poolside page– turners go hand– in–hand. Here are the favourite beach reads chosen by some of the country’s top female novelists, that are unputdownable guaranteed.

LOUISE O’NEILL picks SUMMER SISTERS BY JUDY BLUME I first read Summer Sisters by Judy Blume as a teenager, and felt as if I alone was discovering this wonderful book. It tells the story of Vix, a shy teenage girl who feels stifled by an over–bearing mother and the demands of caring for her disabled brother. An invitation from Caitlin, the most glamorous girl in her class, to spend a summer on Martha’s Vineyard is an offer she can’t refuse. Their friendship firmly cemented, Vix returns every year to spend the summer with Caitlin, experiencing her first kiss, her first love, and her first sexual encounter on the island. Blume never shies away from dealing with female sexuality, but it is her exploration of Vix and Caitlin’s tumultuous and utterly consuming friendship that makes Summer Sisters such an irresistible read. €11.50, bookdepository.com SINEAD MORIARTY picks TELL THE WOLVES I’M HOME BY CAROL RIFKA BRUNT I’ve just finished a lovely book called Tell The Wolves I’m Home by Carol Rifka Brunt. Set in America in 1987, it’s the charming tale of 14–year–old June Elbus, who believes the only person in the world that truly understands her is her uncle, the renowned painter Finn Weiss. Shy at school and distant from her older sister, June can only be herself in Finn’s company; he is her godfather, confidant, and best friend. So when he dies of AIDS her world falls apart, but in her grief she finds a most unlikely friend in Finn’s secret boyfriend, Toby. A tender friendship begins that will help them both deal with the loss of their beloved Finn. €11.99, Eason MARTINA EVANS picks THE GOLDFINCH BY DONNA TARTT Stendhal said that the essential thing about a novel must be that the reader who begins it one evening stays up all night to finish it. When I read Donna Tartt’s The Secret History in 1992, I stayed up all night to finish that riveting murder story soaked in Greek history and philosophy. When my daughter was 17, I gave her The Secret History. She stayed up all night to finish it and decided to take Classical studies for A levels. Now it’s her turn to press Tartt’s latest novel The Goldfinch into my hands — another page turner with a fairy tale orphan boy protagonist, it deals with art and terrorism, and has polarised the critics. Many don’t agree that Tartt’s managed to combine great literature with readability, but I’m impatient to find out – great literature or not, I know I will enjoy the ride. €14.20, Eason SARAH WEBB picks SIMON VS THE HOMO SAPIENS AGENDA BY BECKY ALBERTALLI This is one of the best teen coming–of–age novels I’ve read in a long time. The narrator, Simon, is sixteen and trying to figure out who he is and how he fits into the world. Written by an American clinical psychologist who has a wonderful writing voice, it’s hard to believe it’s her first novel. Funny and heart-wrenching, it chronicles the teenage experience, including coming to terms with sexual identity — Simon comes out to his parents and friends during the book — perfectly. It’s a book about bullying, blackmail, love, family, hope, Oliver (the musical), and so much more. If you want to read something different on the beach, do try it. €11.99, Eason

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The Wild West Mother nature has been crafting Ireland’s newest tourist attraction for hundreds of thousands of years, so this summer take a week to appreciate the Wild Atlantic Way. From breathtaking views to delectable food, Carolyn Moore picks the must-sees and culinary highlights on this stunning 2,500Kk route. Cork to Kerry Take in your first vista with a visit to the Old Head of Kinsale and its picture perfect 17th-century lighthouse, before kicking off your culinary adventure in the gourmet haven of Kinsale, where you can’t but eat well. The route west will take you through Clonakilty and on to Rosscarbery, where the Celtic Ross Hotel is a great base for exploring West Cork, with Mizen Head – and the heart-stopping footbridge that connects the mainland to a rocky outcrop

- and Bantry – with the adjacent Sheep’s Head peninsula - easy yet spectacular drives. On the hotel’s Wild Atlantic Way food trail in July you can sample the best of the regions food offerings too (celticrosshotel.com). Further west, don’t miss the chance to take Ireland’s only cable car across to Dursey Island, before driving into the kingdom of Kerry, home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site that is The Skelligs. These far-flung sandstone rocks are

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a sacred 1,300-year-old place of pilgrimage, with a monastery that lies 600ft above sea level. Worth a trip for the wildlife alone, no visit is complete without a visit to the Skelligs Chocolate Factory. Looping back inland, the R561 will take you toward the town of Dingle, where you can continue around the famous Slea Head or go further west to the Blasket Islands – the farthest west you can go. Once home to Peig Sayers, the visitor centre at Dunquin gives a taste of the way things once were on the islands, and back on the mainland, the highly rated Gorman’s Clifftop House and Restaurant is raved about for its views and its food alike (gormansclifftophouse.com). Clare to Galway Heading inland for Tarbert, the Kilrush Ferry takes you across the Shannon and into Clare. Take time to tour the remarkable Loop Head, with its

panoramic cliff views and a lighthouse that’s served as beacon for seamen since 1670. The seas here are home to over 150 bottlenose dolphins, a trip on a Dolphinwatch boat from Carrigaholt is a must (dolphinwatch.ie). Forge onward to the truly breathtaking Cliffs of Moher - 8km of sheer cliff face watched over by the spectacular O’Brien’s Tower - before driving into the Burren, Ireland’s most ecologically diverse landscape and home to the 6,000 year old Poulnabrone Dolmen. Treat yourself to a night in Stephen Spielberg’s favourite holiday haunt, Ballyvaughan, staying in Gregan’s Castle, from where you can explore the area with their in-house tour guide, see the Cliffs of Moher from the sea with an included boat trip, and enjoy the creative way their award winning restaurant uses the very best local ingredients (gregans.ie). Follow the road around Galway Bay and another dramatic change in

landscape greets as you enter the rugged beauty of Connemara. Stop at Rossaveal to take a ferry to the Aran islands, or carry on to the picturesque fishing village of Roundstone and stay in the luxurious and historic Ballynahinch Castle (ballynahinchcastle.com), part of the fabric of the area. Outside Roundstone, on the Ballyconeely peninsula, a visit to the Connemara Smokehouse to sample their divine smoked tuna is a must for any foodie (smokehouse.ie), and as rocky blanket bog turns to lush greenery, the landscape is a constant surprise. Stop off at the haunting graveyard for the boys of Letterfrack Industrial School, where toys and fruit left by visitors will melt the hardest of hearts. Head north to Killary harbor and see how one of Ireland’s three genuine glacial fjords has been transformed into a fish farming hub, overlooked by

the domineering Mweelrea mountains. The rugged landscape lends itself to a sense of adventure and those seeking an adrenaline rush can indulge in bungee-jumping, kayaking or wakeboarding with the Killary Adventure Centre (killaryadventure. com). Mayo to Donegal Just beyond the town of Leenaun, the road turns up through the Doolough

Pass, where you can pause for a moment at the weathered cross that memorialises the souls that perished here during the famine after officials, on a whim, forced starving people to walk 12 miles from Louisburgh to Delphi Lodge to seek aid. â&#x20AC;&#x153;How can men feel themselves honoured by the humiliation of their fellow beings?â&#x20AC;? the inscription asks, and it sets the tone for a visit to the tiny but informative famine museum in the

pretty town of Louisburgh. From there, head to Westport, start of the 42 km Great Western Greenway - the longest off-road walking and cycling trail in Ireland (greenway.ie). Utilising a now disused railway line, the trail runs to the Achill islands, where an eerie deserted village sits abandoned and 5,000-year-old megalithic tombs offer a glimpse into life and death in ancient Ireland. Heading north, enjoy a genuine

T R AV E L Wild Atlantic experience at Kilala bay, where guide Denis Quinn will take you foraging for edible seaweed, oysters, muscles and clams (wildatlanticculturaltours. com), but if bathing in seaweed is more your thing, book into the stunning Ice House Hotel, whose Wild Atlantic Way package includes a 60 minute VOYA seaweed treatment to help you relax after your exertions (icehousehotel.ie). Passing through Sligo, in the footsteps of Yeats, the headland at Mullaghmore offers incredible views of Ben Bulben mountain and unparalleled surfing conditions. With waves up to 100ft crashing off the coast, it attracts some of the world’s best surfers, but beginners can test the waters with one of the area’s numerous surfing schools. Outside Sligo town another unique experience awaits at Coopershill House, where guests can enjoy the grandeur of the estate in the

company of a hawk and an instructor who’ll show you how to ‘cast’ and recall the magnificent bird as you walk (coopershill.com). Continue to Donegal, for some of the highest accessible sea cliffs in Europe, the second most beautiful beach in the world – Ballymastocker Bay - and a chance to catch a glimpse of the famous Northern Lights at Ireland’s most northerly point, Malin Head. Beyond Killybegs, the Sliabh Liag range yields one of the finest views of the whole route, with walking trails that are a dream for hikers and hillwalkers. Book into the fabulous Lough Eske Castle hotel (solishotels. com/lougheskecastle), where they’ll pack you a hearty gourmet lunch in a rucksack with maps, rain macs and walking sticks so you can catch that last view and wrap up your Wild Atlantic adventure in style. For more on the Wild Atlantic Way see wildatlanticway.com.

Summer Family Break

3 nights bed and breakfast including dinner on one evening for two adults and two children under 12 years in a family room

APRIL & MAY OFFERS

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SEASIDE FRIDAY OFFER Complimentary Kid’s Club during the school holidays. Children dine from the Kid’s Menu. Bedsteam, & Breakfast for only Leisure Centre with indoor pool,Dinner, baby pool, sauna rooms and €49pps gym. Available 24 Apr, 8 & 29 May only. FREE Wi-Fi throughout hotel. MIDWEEK IN WEST CORK

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Wild Atlantic Way Food Heritage Trail Subject to & availability so BOOK NOW! Saturday 25 July

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SEE OUR NEW WEBSITE FOR SUMMER EVENTS AND MORE SPECIAL OFFERS www.celticrosshotel.com CELTIC ROSS HOTEL, Rosscarbery, West Cork t: +353 (0)23 88 48722 e: info@celticross.com www.celticrosshotel.com twitter & facebook @CelticRossHotel 72

SOC I A L Pictured at the Clarion Hotel’s 10th Anniversary celebrations

Renate Murphy, Danielle O’Rourke and Rhona Abbey

Deirdre Cronin and Emer O’Hea Martín

Photos: Miki Barlok

Aisling Deasy, Vivienne McCarthy, Lisa Madden and host Maura Derrane

Niamh Murphy and Claire Nash

Lisa Meldrum and Sonia Cribbin

Pictured at the The Kingsley’s Hotel wedding event:

Laura O’Flaherty, Sinead Murphy and Mary Harty

Sarah, Annette and Catriona Myers

Photos: Diane Cusack

Caroline Nolan and Katie Williamson

Pictured at the fifth annual Anam Cara ‘Lunch to Remember’ at Club Brassiere, Cork:

Calie Cohalan, Rosie Cronin and Deirdre Murphy

Sinead Cokley, Marie Dowd and Ellen Butler

Photos: Gerard McCarthy

Margaret King, Aoife Dunne and Norma Lunch

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