Family Go Live by Family Go Live

Welcome to... The Essential Directory for Organised Parents It’s that time of year when the days get colder, the nights become darker and the high street is jammed packed with shoppers. It could only mean one thing - Christmas is just around the corner! To get you in the festive spirit, we’ve compiled an issue that is brimming with exciting things to do for all of the family, including after school activities, pantomimes and plays, a section of grottos and special yuletide evenings around the city. In our Bumps & Babies section, the team explore early baby stimulation and also the top tips for becoming a new mum, while in Education, we look at the benefits of home tutors and see whether your child really needs one. To keep the mums and dads of the family even more active over Christmas, we’ve found the latest clubs and classes for adults and show you how you can keep up with the kids when it comes to taking part in sports and regular activities. Local Services includes some of the best Christmas gifts around this year, Health and Beauty speaks to some of the

Contents: Contents Bumps & Babies

Education

Clubs & Classes

Out & About

Local Services

Health & Beauty

Parties & Playtime

city’s top stylists for festive hints and tips and in Parties and Playtime, we go horseing around for this edition’s Party Fact File! And because it’s Christmas, we’ve gone competition crazy with the help of Tiddley Pom and their gorgeous hampers, Little Birdie Told Me who have given us one of their fabulous rocking horses, everyone’s favourite hardware store Rapid who are offering one lucky reader £250’s worth of Christmas decorations and also the wonderful Chill Out Spa, who will be pampering two lucky ladies with the ultimate spa day. The Family Go Live team would like to give a special thank you to all of our readers and advertisers for all of their support over the past year and we’ll see you in 2012.

A very Merry Christmas from Family Go Live Magazine and have a fantastic New Year!

EDITORIAL: Nicola Rowlands / Holly Kirby ADVERTISING SALES: Julie Vincent / Clare Vaughan / Anne-Louise Bouffard-Roupe DIRECTOR: Denise Harris ADDRESS: SK Events, The Old Bank 382 Aigburth Road Liverpool L19 3QD TELEPHONE: 0151 432 5651 EMAIL: info@familygolive.com

Disclaimer: The information contained within Family Go Live we believe to be correct at the time of printing, no responsibility can be accepted for errors or omissions.

Directory

Water Babies Tel: 01925 243 643 www.waterbabies.co.uk Centre, Childwall and Woolton Children’s , L16 4PQ Road ton Ruds ol, Scho t Infan ton Ruds

Tel: 0151 233 5733 entre.co.uk www.childwallandwooltonchildrensc Hunts Cross Children’s Centre ool, L25 0PJ Kingsthorne Road, Hunts Cross, Liverp Tel: 0151 233 3733 Centre Church and Mossley Hill Children’s Rd, L18 1JX. Dovedale Infant School, Herondale Tel: 0151 233 5399 mossleyhillchildrenscentre.com Elaine Cunningham Interiors Tel: 0151 494 1555 www.elainecunninghaminteriors.com Puddle Ducks Tel: 01829 739 073 www.puddleducks.com ent Classes Baby Sensory – Baby Developm 9253 639 Tel: 0151 www.babysensory.com Before The Stork Tel: 0151 280 0543 www.beforethestork.info ABC Woolton Day Nursery Tel: 0151 428 4225 Holyrood Nursery Tel: 0151 227 4345 .co.uk www.holyrood-nursery-princesdock Mamas & Papas Tel: 0845 606 7772 www.mamasandpapas.co.uk Baby Ballet Tel: 0151 722 1987 www.babyballet.co.uk Tumble Tots Tel: 07738 755090 www.tumbletots.com The Baby Store Tel: 01925 241 467 www.thebabystoreltd.co.uk Yoga Bumps & Babies Tel: 07879 282 479 www.yogabumpsandbabies.co.uk Musical Minis Merseyside Tel: 0151 486 4735 www.musicalminis.co.uk NCT Liverpool Tel: 0844 243 6191 www.nct.org.uk/branches/liverpool

The Essential Directory for Organised Parents

BUMPS & BABIES

Bump s & Babies

Does early stimulation really help your baby? During their first year, babies will learn more than at any other time of life. Connections made between the brain cells will double the weight of the baby’s brain by their first birthday and these connections rapidly form in the child’s first three months, which is why sensory stimulation from birth is so important. Melanie Batchelor, Master Franchisee of Baby SensoryLiverpool, said: “Many of us spend the majority of our lives thriving to improve our communication skills for professional and personal reasons. As our children grow older, we will spend many hours helping them to develop good communication skills and supporting them in situations where they have misunderstood others or been misunderstood themselves. “During the vital first year, when the brain is developing more than at any time, there is so much we can do to help our babies develop vital early communication skills.”

Melanie and the team at Baby Sensory provide many activities that incorporate every possible sensory experience including singing, sign language, fibre optic lights, rainbows, bubbles, bells, holistic massage, puppets, brain games and much more. “The babies are totally attentive”, added Melanie, “so they are absolutely fascinated by everything that they can see, hear, touch, taste and smell.”

For more information contact Baby Sensory on 0151 639 9253 or 0771 954 5607.

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BUMPS & BABIES

Top tips on becoming a new mum Becoming a mum is an extremely special and rewarding experience, especially if it is your first time. You may find the process much harder than you could have ever imagined, but don’t worry as you are not alone and the happy days often outweigh the tough ones. The average age of a first-time mum is currently 25 with 72% of mums continuing to work once they have had their child. So what’s the key to doing it right?

Beating the tiredness Most new mums will tell you how tiring it is – because it is! However, the whole process can be made a lot easier if you try and get some shut eye whenever you can. When your baby is asleep in the day, don’t attempt to become a domestic goddess – take forty winks instead. The housework can wait!

with a nice cuppa. You will also need to make time for your partner as well – the pair of you will require understanding, support and most importantly, lots of love.

Visitors While you want to show everyone your new addition, visitors can often leave you feeling pretty exhausted. Rather than trying to please everyone, don’t overload yourself with visitors as there will be plenty of time for friends, family and neighbours to meet your baby.

Give yourself a chance It’s inevitable that there are going to be times when things really get to you. Stressful days and nights with your new baby are always going to occur, but you can’t let these feelings take over. The key is to try and remain in control and find your own way of dealing with difficult and problematic situations.

Time for you and your partner Just because you’ve had a baby doesn’t mean your old life has to disappear forever. It is essential that you make time for yourself – whether it is to paint your nails, have a bath, phone a friend or read a magazine

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BUMPS & BABIES

WIN Jasper

Rocking Horse worth £200! Create real nursery envy this festival season with the super-stylish Jasper Rocking Horse. We’ve teamed up with national brand Little Bird Told Me to offer one lucky reader the chance to win this irresistible Jasper, which is the ultimate gift for older

and sophistication as much as little ones will love him for his play value. Jasper stands at around 55cm and is suitable for infants aged 18months plus. :

babies this Christmas.

For your chance to win, answer the following question

He features a classic woven check fabric in shades of chocolate and has a stylised leatherette saddle with stirrups to support little ones. His soft and scrunchy mane and tail are made from strokeable faux suede and he stands proudly on a sturdy wooden bow rocking base. There really is no other rocking horse like

How tall is Jasper? A, 20cm B, 55cm C, 100cm

Jasper available on the market. Priced at around £200 he will become the talking point of any nursery and be adored by adults for his charm

Send your answer along with your name, age, address and daytime telephone number to info@ familygoilive.com before December 29.

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BUMPS & BABIES

With Christmas just around the corner, it’s essential to make our little ones look fabulous when it comes to fashion... The team at Family Go Live were given a sneak peek at the new Powell Craft children’s clothes collection at Elaine Cunningham Interiors in Aigburth to find out what your children should be wearing this festive season…

gham Elaine Cunnin rmation visit gburth, Ai , For more info ad Ro th 0 -392 Aigbur Interiors at 39 51 494 1555 3QD or call 01 9 L1 l, oo Liverp

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EDUCATION

BUMPS & BABIES

Education Directory

Holly Lodge Girls’ College Tel: 0151 228 3772 www.hollylodge.liverpool.sch.uk St Margaret’s CoE High School Tel: 0151 427 1825 www.stmargaretshigh.com St. Julie’s Catholic High School

WIN 1 of 5

Tiddley Pom Natural Baby Spa Box Sets worth £32.99 This delightful box set contains four exclusive natural baby products: Natural Baby Wash, Organic Baby Massage Oil, Soothing Baby Lotion and Natural Nappy Balm. Designed by experts, this gift box contains a CD of Baby Spa Music by world renowned composer Fridrik Karlsson and a DVD with instructions for getting the most from baby’s first spa experience, including baby massage tips! All of Tiddley Pom’s products are free from harmful chemicals, parabens and SLS and are available from http://tiddley-pom.com/ or by calling 0845 094 2816. For your chance to win simply answer this question:

Which world renowned composer composed the music for the Baby Spa CD? Send your answer along with your name, age, address and daytime telephone number to info@ familygoilive.com before December 29.

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Tel: 0151 428 6421 www.stjulies.org.uk St John Bosco Arts College Tel: 0151 546 6360 www.stjohnboscoartscollege.com Childwall Sports College Tel: 0151 722 1561 www.childwallsc.co.uk Bellerive FCJ Catholic College Tel: 0151 727 2064 www2.bellerivefcj.org St Hilda’s CE High School Tel: 0151 733 2709 www.st-hildas.com Notre Dame Catholic College Tel: 0151 263 3104 www.notredameliverpool.com Active TT Tel: 0151 7334353 www.activett.co.uk The De La Salle Academy Tel: 0151 546 3134 www.de-la-salle.co.uk Alsop High School Tel: 0151 235 1200 www.alsophigh.org.uk Calderstones School Tel: 0151724 2087 www.calderstones.co.uk Fazakerley High School Tel: 0151 524 4530 www.fazakerleyhigh.org Gateacre School Tel: 0151 235 1400 www.gateacre.liverpool.sch.uk West Derby School Tel: 0151 235 1333 www.westderbyschool.co.uk St Edwards College Tel: 0151 281 1999 www.st-edwards.co.uk

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EDUCATION

Home tutors – the benefits and whether your child needs one

The number of children getting private home tuition is on the increase with nearly a quarter of all secondary school pupils in the UK currently receiving it. If you have ever considered it for your child, you must firstly consider the reasons why. Is your aim to improve their aptitude and knowledge base in a particular field? Or is it a case that they need their own teacher who is dedicated to assisting them with their learning process? In a classroom, one teacher may be faced with around thirty pupils, each with different abilities, different rates of learning, and individual strengths and weaknesses. Yet despite this, for the majority of the lesson, the teacher will be forced to treat their class as if it contained just one student. Dene Carter from The Academy of Science said: “A personalised program tailored to your child’s individual needs is the easiest and quickest way to improve your child’s subject knowledge. The undivided attention a personal tutor will offer accelerates your child learning and understanding leading to exam success.” When it comes to finding the right home tutor for your child, you can begin your search by asking your child’s school if they recommend individual tutors or commercial tutoring centres. In addition, ask other parents if they have experience in hiring tutors. Sian Kilty-Sumner from Let’s Learn added: “Tuition is a tremendous way to re-visit and re-learn challenging and complex concepts. At Let’s Learn we endeavour to create a no pressure atmosphere in which pupils can succeed and feel totally at ease. Having a personalised programme for learning ensures that all pupils cover the concepts that they truly need to progress, be successful and raise their confidence.”

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EDUCATION

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let their fingers do the talking

with Richard and Judy.

Pupils from St Hilda’s CE High School have been learning their ABCs in order to raise much needed funds for The National Deaf Children’s Society. Each term, the school’s parliament votes for a specific charity to support throughout the year, alongside their selected charities. Their efforts to learn the British Sign Language alphabet are being tested through a ‘finger spellathon’ in which pupils are sponsored for each word they are able to spell. The best spellers from each year group will be entered into a grand final that will then be tested by Ian Cockburn and Stephen Mckenna, who are both tutors from Merseyside Society for Deaf People. MSDP work

EDUCATION

Christmas Book Club

St Hilda’s

With Christmas just around the corner, why not choose a good book for your child to read this festive season with the help of Richard and Judy

each year with small groups of the school’s pupils in order to train them for Level 1 of British Sign Language. The school’s aim is that by the end of this term, every pupil should be able to communicate with any member of the deaf society. For more information visit www.st-hildas.com

The television duo’s Christmas Book Club, which works alongside independent charity Booktrust, is made up of twelve titles for mixed age groups aimed at both boys and girls.

Happy Christmas Boris!, Sam Lloyd

Richard Madeley said: “This new selection is ideal for people who simply don’t know what book to choose for a child this Christmas, or even for parents looking for those all important stocking fillers.”

Monstersaurus, Claire Freedman and Ben Cort

Our favourites include the appropriately titled Happy Christmas Boris by Sam Lloyd (£8.99) which is a fun and unusual tale that sees Boris going on an adventure with Santa, producing guaranteed laughter for all of the family. Another good read is Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Pop-Up Book, which will give children a chance to rediscover a classic with this special edition of a muchloved story. Charlie’s visit to the chocolate factory magically presented in pop-up form is priced £14.99.

For more details, visit www.whsmith.co.uk

Children’s Christmas Book Club titles include: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Pop-Up Book, Roald Dahl and Quentin Blake

The Jolly Postman or Other People’s Letters, Janet Ahlberg and Allan Ahlberg.

Snuggle Bunny, Emma Goldhawk and Jon Lambert Paddington’s Cookery Book, Michael Bond and R.W. Alley Pippi Longstocking Gift Edition, Astrid Lindgren and Lauren Child Puss in Boots, Stella Gurney See Inside: Noisy Castles, Katie Daynes and David Hancock

Dear Zoo Noisy Book, Rod Campbell Egyptology, Emily Sands, Dugald Steer, Nick Harris and Helen Ward Farmyard Tales Wind-up Tractor Book, Stephen Cartwright

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It’s not just your kids who can benefit from classes – don’t forget about yourself! Liverpool has a wealth of activities for adults to take part in from salsa dancing with friends to learning guitar or a new language. We’ve got together some of our best picks for some inspiration…

The Black-E

www.theblack-e.co.uk 0151 709 5109 1 Great George Street, Liverpool, L1 5EW Classes are £4.50, every Sunday 11:30-13:00 T’ai Chi Classes

Martin’s Dance Centre

Neighbourhood Cafe Book Club

www.neighbourhoodcafe.co.uk 0151 737 2266 261 Woolton Road,Liverpool, L16 8NA Tickets are £5.00 (includes nibbles) Once a month, see website for dates Meet like-minded people and be introduced to books

Liverpool Guitar Tuition

www.liverpoolguitartuition.co.uk 07929 852 410 Igloo Studio 25-31 Parliament Street, Liverpool, L8 5RN Lessons cost £15.00 per hour Make the process of learning to play the guitar an enjoyable and rewarding experience

The Northern College of Beauty and Holistic Therapies

www.martinsdancecentre.co.uk 0151 228 4586 25 - 27 Derby Lane, Old Swan, Liverpool, L13 6QA Salsa, Rock and Roll, Cha Cha, Waltz and more

www.beautycourses.co.uk 0151 260 6767 See website for course content, course dates and cost. Provides quality training in the beauty, nail extension and holistic therapy industry

Dance Passion

Rory Lewis Photography Tuition

www.dance-passion.co.uk 07751 240 230 Various locations throughout Liverpool See website for details of weekly classes Classes start from £4.00 per class Offers a variety of Zumba classes for all ages

B&Q You Can Do It Classes

www.diy.com 0845 609 6688 Redclyffe Road, Trafford Park, M41 7LG Classes start from £10.00 DIY classes in plumbing, decorating and insulation

LILA

www.lilalovetolearn.com 0151 707 0909 New Barratt House 47 North John Street, Liverpool, L2 6SG English Courses, Foreign Courses, Teacher Training & Translation Courses

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www.rorylewis.co.uk 07539 064 487 See website for course content, course dates and cost Learn the skills and techniques which will enable you to use your camera to produce stunning photographs to wow your friends, or to generate an income

Liverpool Fencing Club

www.liverpool-fencing-clubs. co.uk 07917273550 The gym of Liverpool College North Mossley, Hill Road, Liverpool, L18 8BG See website for details The club offers regular beginners courses for those who are new to the sport

Blackburne House Education

www.blackburnehouse.co.uk Blackburne Place. Liverpool. L8 7PE Part-time & evening courses for all levels in everything from Interior design, maintenance & digital photography.

CLUBS & CLASSES

Activities for Adults

Keeping up with the kids - alterative

activities for parents to enjoy in their spare time Most parents will know what it’s like to spend hours in the car, acting as their child’s chauffeur, to drive them to an after school club or an activity early on a Saturday morning. But have you ever considered finding your own activities to enjoy in your spare time? There are a whole host of clubs and classes in around Liverpool, including salsa dancing, Zumba, language classes or even Yoga. It could be a chance for you to do something exciting and an opportunity to meet new people. Salsa dancing in particular has grown enormously in popularity over the last few years. Classes are held locally in The Casa on Hope Street, every Thursday night starting at 8pm for beginners. If dancing is definitely your thing, you could also join a Zumba class, which combines Latin dance and music with an aerobic workout. These classes take place on Mondays and Wednesdays in the Black – E in Great George Street and are seen by many as an ‘epic’ workout. Did you know that the average person burns off 600 calories in a 1 hour session? Classes are only £4 per session and definitely a great way to keep fit. However, if dancing isn’t for you and you need a more calming and relaxing outlet, why not learn a new language? You might find it very useful on your next holiday. Calderstones ALC on Harthill Road offer Spanish and French classes for beginners at £10 a class.

Or maybe you need to completely zone out from work life and family life! Yoga classes are a proven method to help you relax and de-stress. Childwall ALC on Queens Drive have beginner classes at £10 per session.

These are just a small sample of what is going on in Liverpool and what you can get involved in. Have a look at our great ‘Classes and Clubs’ directory for adults for more inspiration!

Tell us what activities you do! Visit our website - www.familygolive.com

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When it comes to sports that can be enjoyed during the winter months, horse riding has become increasingly popular over recent years. It’s an activity that the whole family can enjoy and it can provide endless hours of fun as well as numerous health benefits. As well being a great source of exercise, it gives kids (and adults) good balance and co-ordination skills, improved social skills, confidence, responsibility and a sense of release and freedom. There are many horse riding schools in the Merseyside area, such as Croxteth Park Riding Centre, where lessons for children range from between £10-16 and £17 for adults. They also provide trail rides through Croxteth Country Park at just £12 for 45 minutes.

Another popular place to go riding is Beechley Riding Stables in South Liverpool. Here, lessons are priced at £17.50 for adult and junior classes. The arena can also be rented out at £17.50 per hour. In terms of what to wear when riding, purpose designed jodhpurs and riding boots are best and hats are usually available on loan.

Our top tip - don’t forget to wrap up warm!

CLUBS & CLASSES

Giddy Up! Why horse riding could be the right activity for you

Pa rent Review

Jumping Jacks We started coming to Jumping Jacks over 18 months ago now and have been nearly every week since.

The kids, Niamh who is 3 years old and Ciaran who is 20 months, both look forward to coming and really enjoy the sessions. Niamh usually asks if we’re going to see Lucie today at least a couple of days before the session we attend!

The combination of music and actions has struck a chord with both of them to the point where we often have the Jumping Jacks’ CD on at home. It helps them stay focused on something while letting off some steam at the same time. Niamh is now showing Ciaran the actions and he recognises the different songs and actively takes part.

Jumping Jack s le resource I think Jumping Jacks is a really valuab It’s great nsely. imme enjoy kids the and f mysel which developing and elves thems ng enjoyi for me to see them Edwards, father over the weeks and months. By Dave of two. , visit www.

To find out more about Jumping Jacks jumpingjacks.co.uk

The sessions have definitely increased both the children’s confidence around other children in a large group scenario and they could never be described as shy now. The sessions include many ‘hidden’ lessons for the kids too so they are learning new skills without even realising (counting, balancing, catching etc). The children’s favourite parts of the sessions are usually the most active the Hokey Cokey etc. but Niamh in particular took the challenge of balancing bean bags on her head and back very seriously! It’s difficult to pick out a particular part they enjoy as they seem so happy with the whole thing.

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December 2011

Diary Planner - November MON

SUN

THUR

WEDS

TUES

5 e tur ven Ad in Wonderla nd Wa lker Art Ga llery

Christmas Fair Rufford Vil lage Ha ll Southport

30 Christmas Charity Concert – The Brind ley Theatre Runcorn

22nd – 7th Ja n White Christma s Liverpool Empire

21st – 26th Ca lenda r Girls Liverpool Empire

Cinderel la Pla yhouse Liverpool

Aladdin – Theatre Roya l St Helens

Nutcracker Theatre Roya l St Helens

20th – 27th Christmas Craft Fa ir Croxteth Ha ll

Wa lton Winter Wonderla nd Wa lton Ha ll Ga rdens Wa rrington

SAT

FRI

THUR

WEDS

TUES

MON

SUN

SAT

FRI

Out & About Directory 1st – 5th November

English National Ballet: Strictly Gershwin The dancers of English National Ballet will be joined by special guests and a live jazz orchestra for this fabulous dance spectacular. Liverpool Empire Tel: 0844 871 3017

6th November

20th & 27th November / 4th&11th December

27th November

The Nutcracker

Croxteth Hall Christmas Craft Fair

Vienna Festival Ballet presents ‘The Nutcracker’. The enchanting tale of The Nutcracker centres on Clara and her nutcracker doll, which magically transforms into a princely soldier Theatre Royal, St Helens Tel: 01744 756 000

Join in the Christmas festivities at the at the Christmas Fair Croxteth Hall, Liverpool Tel: 0151 233 2165

Christmas Fair for Woodlands Animal Sanctuary

Christmas Fair

Stuff and Nonsense: Curious Adventure in Wonderland Come along in costume and make hand-held looking glass. See favourite characters and do a walkabout with them. Tate Liverpool, Albert Dock Tel: 0151 702 7400 5th & 6th November

RNLI Reindeer Run & Santa Saunter

Grease

12th November

5th November

27th November

8th – 19th November

The number one greatest musical is back with Liverpool’s very own Ray Quinn! Liverpool Empire Tel: 0844 871 3017

A Christmas Fair with stalls selling a wide variety of goods suitable for purchase as Christmas presents Old Christ Church, Waterloo Tel: 0151 924 5738

Father Christmas will be there along with all kinds of crafts and gift stalls Rufford Village Hall, Southport Tel: 01704 823293

21st – 26th November

Calendar Girls Following an award-winning West End run and a sell-out, record-breaking week in Liverpool, Calendar Girls is coming back one last time! Liverpool Empire Tel: 0844 871 3017

Free Reindeer Run t-shirt and antlers +free mince pies and hot drinks at finish. Meet the elephants and giraffes at the start and visit the petting zoo at the finish for free! Knowsley Safari Park Tel: 0151 430 9009 27th November – 24th December

The Santa Train Join Santa onboard Llangollen Railway’s Santa Special. Don’t forget to wrap up warm Llangollen, North Wales Tel: 01978 860 979

14th November – 18th November

30th November – 21st January

Children in Need Funtacular Week

The Voyages of Sinbad the Sailor

Meet Pudsey on Tuesday 15th November, visit from Warrington Fire Fighter and Fireman Sam on Friday 18th The Jungle, Warrington Tel: 01925 659995

Fantastic Fireworks Create your own dark night sky illuminated with dazzling and colourful fireworks Walker Art Gallery, Liverpool Tel: 0151 478 4199

25th November

Perfect for ages 5+ and featuring puppetry, song, dance and traditional storytelling let your imagination run wild this Christmas. Unity Theatre, Liverpool Tel: 0844 873 2888

Liverpool Christmas Market

30th November & 1st December

Liverpool is set to stage one of the biggest Christmas markets in the country this year Lord St, Paradise St, Whitechapel, Church St, Richmond St, Houghton St, Elliot St and Parker St.

5th & 6th November

26th November

Christmas Gift Fair

20th November

It’s an early chance to look for those special Christmas gifts for all the family. You will be delighted by ideas for presents not usually found in High Street shops! Tatton Park, Chesire Tel: 01530 834056

Family Fun Days Special food offers for adults and kids along with free sushi rolling demonstrations, face painting and balloon modelling. Book early to avoid disappointment! Sapporo Teppanyaki, Duke Street Tel: 0151 7053005

Christmas at the Children’s Zoo Meet and greet some of the zoo’s resident animals on this festive tour of the Children’s Zoo Walton Hall Gardens, Warrington Tel: 01925 601617

Christmas Charity Concert Join in the festive season of music with songs and carols old and new The Brindley Theatre, Runcorn Tel: 0151 907 8360

Out & About Directory December 1

Curious Garden, Williamson Square

Christmas in the heart of Liverpool City Centre will take on a new dimension this year with the Curious Garden in Williamson Square. From December 1 families will be invited to step inside a world of wonder and delight where things are not quite what they seem…! Williamson Square, Liverpool City Centre

5th – 10th December

10th December

16th December

Scrooge the Musical

Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer

Christmas Party

Get ready to embark on a magical theatrical experience unlike any other in the international smash-hit musical sensation Scrooge Liverpool Empire Tel: 0844 871 3017

Winter Celebration

Aladdin

Get your three wishes ready, dig out your magic carpet and prepare for some fabulous festive fun! Theatre Royal, St. Helens Tel: 01744 756 000 2nd December – 23rd December

Father Christmas’s Grotto Come along and meet Father Christmas Farmer Ted’s, Merseyside Tel: 0151 233 0002

Join Southport Theatre for the enchanting tale of Snow White. Everyone’s favourite fairy story will be a magical journey for all the family. Southport Theatre Tel: 0844 871 3021 9th – 24th December

Santa’s Grotto – Ice Castle

Meet Santa Claus himself in his very own ice castle! Liverpool One Tel: 0871 330 8077 9th December - 8th January

11th December

Santa Visits the Palm House

Meet Santa and his elves and don’t forget to come in fancy dress! Palm House, Sefton Park Tel: 0151 726 2415

18th December

Bolshoi: The Nutcracker

The perennial Christmas favourite, the tale of toys that come to life at night, with enchanting music by Tchaikovsky FACT, Liverpool Tel: 0151 707 4464

Cinderella – The Rock ‘n’ Roll Panto

13th December

Baby’s First Christmas Party

Port Sunlight Christmas Food Fayre

Christmas Weekend

Eat, drink and be merry at the Port Sunlight Christmas Food Fayre Hulme Hall, Port Sunlight Tel: 0151 644 6466

A Christmas Market on Chapel Street, Christmas Grotto in Wayfarers Arcade, free entertainment including two pantomimes and lots of other seasonal cheer. Southport Tel: 01704 533 333

Don’t miss out on a great, fun-filled pantomime that the kids will love SureStart Children’s Centre, Dovedale Infant School, Liverpool Tel: 0151 233 5399

Lots of stalls, inside & out: crafts, books, cakes, refreshments + BBQ, raffle & tombola. 12 Class Fun Dog Show for your dog to participate in – all dogs welcome Lydiate Parish Hall, Southport Tel: 0151 549 0959

3rd December

10th & 11th December / 17th & 18th December

Family Pantomime

Christmas Fair and Fun Dog Show

You shall go to the ball... The Brindley Theatre, Runcorn Tel: 0151 907 8360

3rd & 4th December

17th December

11th December

Cinderella

Writers Sarah A Nixon and Mark Chatterton sprinkle their magic all over the Playhouse this Christmas with the family favourite rock and roll panto and a right royal ball as Cinders throws away her mop for something much more fun. Playhouse, Liverpool Tel: 0151 709

16th December

As a special treat for all the boys and girls who have been good throughout the year Santa is paying a special night time visit to Walton Gardens Winter Wonderland Walton Hall Gardens Tel: 01925 601617

This annual event will be a lovely seasonal mix of craft stalls, entertainment, environmental workshops and a visit from Father Christmas National Wildflower Centre Tel: 0151 738 1913

Snow White

Come along to their Christmas party and join in the festivities. SureStart, S.A.R.A Hall, Liverpool Tel: 0151 233 5399

Walton Winter Wonderland Opening Evening

4th December

8th December

2nd December – 8th January

Special festive treat, at just 30 minutes long, ‘Rudolph’ is just the right length for the age group and packed with audience participation and Christmas fun Palm House, Sefton Park Tel: 0151 726 2415

Bring your baby to their very first Christmas party SureStart Children’s Centre, Dovedale Infant School, Liverpool. Tel: 0151 233 5399 15th December

Christmas Party

Come along to their Christmas party and join in the festivities. SureStart Children’s Centre, Dovedale Infant School, Liverpool. Tel: 0151 233 5399

22nd December – 7th January

White Christmas

Irving Berlin’s ‘White Christmas the Musical’ promises to be a merry and bright theatrical experience for the whole family Liverpool Empire Tel: 0844 871 3017

OUT & ABOUT

WIN a Christmas tree and set of decorations worth £250

Christmas is set to come early for one lucky prizewinner - with a tree and set of decorations to the value of £250, courtesy of Rapid. The city centre hardware store , celebrating it’s 40th birthday this year, has just sold it’s 100,000th Christmas Tree so if you’re think ing of Christmas – think Rapid! It will have an answ er to all your festive prayers with its entire 3rd floor dedicated to Christmas and specialist staff on hand to provide expert advice. Upstairs on the 4th floor Liverpool ’s No1 Santa’s Grotto, formerly of Lewis’s, will be taking up residence and families can even eat brea kfast with Santa in Signature Café on the 2nd floor every Sunday morning. Christmas in the heart of Liver pool city centre will take on a new dimension this year with the Curious Garden

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in nearby Williamson Square. From December 1 families will be invited to step insid e a world of wonder and delight where things are not quite what they seem! For more info about Christmas events in the city centre go to www.citycentralbid.com For your chance to win all you have to do is answer this question:

Q: When was Rapid established? To win, send us your answer along with your name, address and daytime telephone number to info@familygolive.com by Dec ember 9.

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OUT & ABOUT

Restaura nt Revie w

Neighbourhood Each year when the winter months arrive, I always find that I have a habit of eating out more.

There’s something very enticing about enjoyin ga good meal in a warm and inviting restaura nt when the countdown to Christmas has officially started and the weather has taken a chilling turn for the worse. Earlier this week, rather than heading into the city centre for a bite to eat, I decided to go somewhere closer to home, and made my way to family run restaura nt and café Neighbourhood, which is set in the heart of Childwall. Having looked at the website before my visit, the team behind Neighbourhood describe eating there as a ‘cross between having a meal in a Parisian bistro and going out for dinner at the house of an old friend’, which may explain why it’s become a regular refuelling stop for yummy mummies and local celebrit ies. So, on a cold and very wet Tuesday evening , my partner and I made our way to Woolton Road with high hopes and empty stomachs. The restaurant has an extremely cosy feel and is extremely inviting from the moment you walk in. While we deliberated over the menu, which took a good ten minutes or so thanks to the long list of perfect autumn/winter dishes, we enjoyed a glass of Rioja and embraced a welcoming and friendly atmosphere. For starters, I went for the Crispy Bury black pudding served with a caramalised apple salad, calvado s dressing and crispy pancetta while my partner couldn’ t resist the specials board, which tonight listed Spilt Pea and Ham Soup – both of which ticked all of the boxes and lined us up for our big hearty mains. My Grilled Aberdeen Angus Sirloin Steak served with homemade chips, roasted cherry tomatoes, caramelised

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Neighbourhood onions and roasted chillies (£18.95) was deliciou s and was cooked exactly how I wanted it. My partner ’s Slow Roasted Lamb Shank with Caponata and Salsa Verdi (£14.95) was so tender that the meat fell off the bone and although it was particular manly in size, the chef had manage d to keep it very refined both in taste and presentation. By the end of our mains, I was completely and utterly full but after having watched some of the deserts on the blackboard sell out during our time in Neighbourhood, I couldn’t resist ordering a slice of chocolate cake to share, to see what all of the fuss was about. The dish did exactly what it said on the tin and finished a great evening. By the time we had finished our meal, the restaurant was completely full, which for a Tuesday night, was surprising yet pleasing to see. I think this is down to the restaurant’s attentive staff, the especially enjoyable atmosphere and the well thought out, put together menu.

And even though Neighbourhood is locate d in the middle of South Liverpool – for those two hours on a wet, cold and wintery night, I felt like I was in somewhere very European but with a definite Liverpool twist.

www.neighbourhoodcafe.co.uk

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OUT & ABOUT

WIN a meal for four

this Christmas courtesy of YO! SUSHI

Liverpool Food And Drink Festival Awards 2011 Celebrate City’s Culinary Talent

Family Go Live magazine has teamed up with Live rpool ONE eatery YO! Sushi to offer one lucky reader a fam ily meal for 4.

YO! Sushi’s dishes are fres hly prepared in the restaurant daily by their nifty kitchen ninjas, whether to dine in, for takeaway or deliv ery. Although sushi is at the heart of their concep t and brand, you can cho ose from over 80 Japanese insp ired items, including delicious soups, rice or noo dle-based dishes, salads,

Guests in their hundreds headed to the industrial chic setting of Camp and Furnace to celebrate the city’s culinary talent at The Liverpool Food and Drink Festival Awards. The Liverpool Food and Drink Festival Awards were the culmination of a 10-day foodie extravaganza and saw more than 4,000 people cast their votes as restaurants, bars and producers battled it out to be titled the city’s best.

Yo Sushi was named the city’s Most Family Friendly Restaurant at the prestigious ceremony, which was hosted by The Great British Bake-Off judge Paul Hollywood. The Winners Are: Favourite Independent Cafe / Coffee Shop: Bold Street Coffee Favourite Sunday Lunch: Marco Pierre White’s The Swan Inn Most Family Friendly Restaurant: Yo Sushi Outstanding Customer Service: Bem Brazil Favourite Neighbourhood Restaurant: Almond, West Derby Favourite International Restaurant: Sapporo Teppanyaki Favourite European Restaurant: Lunya Favourite Bar or Pub: Hub Alehouse and Kitchen Favourite Producer: Liverpool Cheese Company Liverpool’s Favourite Restaurant: Puschka Restaurant of Excellence: 60 Hope Street

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tempura and even hot clas sics like Chicken Katsu Curry, Salmon Teriyaki or Yakisoba noodles (some of their best sellers).

The restaurant, which was voted Most Family Friendly Restaurant at the Liverpoo l Food and Drink Festival Awards last month, offers a completely unique experience, with the food going around in multicoloured dishes on a con veyor, making dinner fun and exciting for everybody!

To be in with a chance of winning this fabulou s family meal for 4, simply answer the following question:

From which country does YO! Sushi’s food originate? Send your answer alon g with your name, address and daytime tele phone number to info@ familygolive.com by Dec ember 29.

WIN a famCilyhristticmkeast ises to be a merry and This dazzling musical prom for the whole family nce erie exp bright theatrical Liverpool Empire, the and – with Family Go Live ning night to start your you could be there on ope ensemble of over thirty Christmas in style! With an as orchestra, White Christm and a dynamic 17 piece e dancing, laughter and som The Musical is full of tap written! ever gs son test grea the of g Berlin hits like Blue Brimming with classic Irvin an, Happy Holiday, Oce the is p Dee Skies, How rgettable title song unfo the rse cou of Sisters and y of two buddies stor the tells it as, White Christm ont inn, and Verm ical mag a in w putting on a sho ess. proc the in es mat ect finding their perf ical stars Aled Jones, White Christmas The Mus right and Ken Farrington Adam Cooper, Louise Plow

to see White The Musical at The Liverpool Empire on opening night! ember – and is on between 22 Dec . Liverpool Empire Theatre

7 January at The

ts.com/liverpool For more info visit atgticke mpire or facebook.com/liverpoole family of 4 to attend on Prize will be a ticket for a For your chance of winning; Thursday 22 December.

the stars Tell us the name of one of of White Christmas?

ress and g with your name, add Send your answer, alon golive.co.uk mily @fa info to ber daytime telephone num by December 10.

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Directory

Ask the expert

Naked Flooring Tel: Brian – 07851139802 nakedflooring@yahoo.co.uk Simply Housework Tel: 0151 724 2222 info@simplyhousework.net Booker Flowers & Gifts Tel: Gemma- 0151 724 4850 gemma@bookerflowers.co.uk Paul Crowley & Co Solicitors Tel: 0151 264 7363 www.paulcrowley.co.uk PK Joinery Tel: 07527 576 870 Trutex School Wear Tel: 08456 121 031 info@graphics-uk.com Liverpool City Centre NHS Walk-in Centre 52 Great Charlotte Street, L1 1HU Tel: 0151 285 3535 South Liverpool NHS Treatment Centre (Walk-in Centre) Church Road, Garston, L19 2LW Tel: 0151 295 9010 Andrew John Photography Tel: 0151 527 2065 www.andrewjohnphotography.co.uk Jackson & Canter Solicitors Tel: 0151 282 1700 www.jacksoncanter.co.uk Morecrofts Solicitors Tel: 0151 236 8871 www.morecroft.co.uk John Williams Plastering Tel: 07577 767 625 www.johnwilliams-liverpool.co.uk City Plumbers Tel: 0151 220 0545 Job Centre Plus Tel: 0845 7060 234 www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk Cottage Kennels & Cattery Tel: 0151 428 1899

LOCAL SERVICES

Christmas gifts

Local Services

With Joanne Ritson Family Law Solicitor at Paul Crowley & Co Solicitors

Q: We have only been married a short time when can I start a divorce? A:

You say that you have only been married for a short time. If by this you mean less than a year, you cannot file a divorce petition as the law in England and Wales prohibits divorce proceedings commencing before the first anniversary of the marriage. There is no getting around this. Once you have been married for more than one year, to be divorced, you must prove to the Court that your marriage has irretrievably broken down. You can only prove this if you can rely on one of the following facts: • Your spouse has committed adultery and he or she is prepared to confess to this or a baby has been born as a result of the adultery; • Your spouse has behaved in such a way that you can no longer reasonably be expected to live with them. i.e. Unreasonable Behaviour. This can cover a broad spectrum of behaviour and you should seek legal advice to confirm whether or not your individual circumstances would be sufficient; • Your spouse has deserted you and you have had no contact with them whatsoever for over 2 years and you have absolutely no idea where they are; • You have been separated for 2 years or more and your spouse will consent to a divorce proceeding on this basis; • You have been separated for 5 years or more. If you have been married for only a short time, the last two facts are not likely to apply to your circumstances. However if none of the other facts apply, you will have to wait until you have been separated for 2 years to commence proceedings. It is worth bearing in mind that even after separation, if your spouse commences a relationship with somebody else that would constitute adultery.

that you can buy your family this festive season With Christmas just around the corner (where did the last 12 months go?!), it’s time to brave the cold and get seasonal shopping to find those closest to you that extra something special. This year, we’ve come up with alternative gift ideas to try and make your Christmas shopping that little bit easier.

Mum: What should you buy the woman who does everything for you? Mums always deserve something special for everything they do and we think this gorgeous Christmas bouquet from Booker Flowers, in Allerton, will definitely make her smile. Dad: He may not be good with technology but this little gadget will definitely teach him a thing or two. The MP4/Radio Player by Philips Go Gear Ariaz (£59.95) has a 1.8” full colour screen, 4GB memory and 5hr video playback. Just make sure you teach him how to use it first! Girls: One of this year’s top presents for girls is the new Fijit (£54.00). These squishy robots come in a range of pastel colours and are able to dance, tell jokes and respond to basic human commands.

Boys: The new Kidzoom Twist Camera (£37.49) is a great way to get your young boys interested in photography. These fun cameras take pictures, make video, play five different games and edit and enhance your photos with stamps, effects and borders. The camera also has a full colour screen and stores up to 500 pictures. Get snapping! Grandmother: Beat the cold this winter and buy your granny some Aroma Home Microwavable Feet Warmers (£16 – £20) in a variety of different colours, patterns and textures. When microwaved, these Hot Sox release an aroma of pure essential oils – the perfect way to soothe tired feet and keep them lovely and warm in the winter. Grandad: Digital photo frames are a great way for your Grandad to always have plenty of photographs of the grandchildren around. The AgfaPhoto Digital Photo Frame 8” (£47 online) is attractive in style with a unique and innovative look. Photos are displayed perfectly thanks to Crystal Image technology, it has easy menu navigation and is fun to use. It also has a number of environmentally friendly functions.

For further information or help with any Family or Children Law issue call Joanne Ritson on 0151 264 7363 or email joanne.ritson@paulcrowley.co.uk

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Health & Beauty Directory

for Christmas Preparing your home for Christmas can be one of the best ways to get into the festive spirit. If you’re having family or friends over this Christmas, you may want to get your house into shape all ready for the big day. Here at Family Go Live, we looked at the top tips on how to get the most out of your home this December.

Declutter Most people crave that extra bit of floor space at Christmas time – and you are probably going to need it for accommodating guests and hiding presents. Having a general clear-out will instantly make your home look tidier, so it’s best to do this the week before Christmas. There may be larger jobs to do like emptying the spare room to make an extra bedroom for your guests to sleep in.

Defrost With Christmas comes the biggest roast dinner of the year so make sure you take a look at your freezer towards the end of November.

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Outside The first thing your guests will see when they arrive at your home is your front door. Make a good first impression by dressing the outside of your home, whether it is a fresh lick of paint or a festive wreath. Christmas decorations are normally all about the tree that is inside, but that doesn’t mean you can’t decorate a tree outside too.

Dressing your home Nothing says Christmas more than wreaths, candles and garlands. Not only will these please the children of the family but it will also make your home as enticing as the food you serve over the Christmas period!

Permanently Pretty Tel: Jan- 07966535569 janjedwards@aol.com Matt Cox Hairdressing Tel: 0151 722 6686 cox.matt@blueyonder.co.uk Sue Sprung Tel: 0151 281 4648 k www.herbsforhealing.co.u Evergreen Clinic Tel: 0151 728 2536 .uk www.woodlandsbeauty.co www.antiageskinclinic.co.uk Voodou Tel: 0844 445 7889 www.voodou.co.uk Resurrection Tel: 0151 709 2676 m www.resurrection-online.co Emma Carder Nutrition Tel: 0151 221 1643 .co.uk www.emmacardernutrition Greens Health & Fitness Tel: 0151 707 6000 www.greensonline.co.uk The Portland Hall Spa Tel: 01704 537 733 www.portlandhallspa.com tre The Physiotherapy Cen Tel: 0151 724 2060 re.co.uk www.thephysiotherapycent e Aigburth Dental Practic Tel: 0151 727 3012 e.co.uk www.aigburthdentalpractic Diverse Fitness Tel: 0786 616 0659 ss.com info@diversehealthandfitne Zumba Tel: 0774 0360 808 lynn233@btinternet.com Allerton Back Clinic Tel: 0151 733 5715 .uk www.liverpoolbackclinic.co ic Epilight New Skins Clin Tel: 0151 709 0099 www.epilightnewskin.co.uk

HEALTH & BEAUTY

LOCAL SERVICES

How to prepare your home

WIN

a luxury day at the Chill Out Spa

We all look forward to the festive season and the fun it brings – but whether it’s the seventh Christmas party, days out with the family or cooking for a small army – Christmas duties can take their toll. That’s why the team at exclusive Merseyside day spa, Chill Out Spa, have come up with a fantastic Christmas giveaway to recharge your batteries. One lucky reader and a friend will enjoy a luxury day at the award-winning Chill Out Spa – relaxing in the sumptuous surroundings, kicking-back in the private hot tub and experiencing a blissful treatment or two. The prize value is £250! Chill Out Spa, which is based in the gated grounds of the magnificent Knowsley Hall, was recently awarded ‘Spa of the Year 2011’ at the Thalgo UK national awards.

To win this fantastic prize, please answer the following question:

Which reindeer has a red nose? Prancer Rudolph Blitzen Please send your answer to info@familygolive.com along with your name, address and day time phone number by December 29.

Please visit www.chilloutspa.co.uk for more information about the spa, or call a member of the team on 0844 9670 599.

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Autumn / Wintcetiorn Colle

Perfect Hair and Make Up looks for winter With winter comes Christmas and with Christmas comes parties, so what look should you go for this festive season? Family Go Live magazine has quizzed some of the city’s top experts to find out exactly what styles you should be creating when it comes to hair and beauty.

Make Up There are two distinct trends to be aware of this season; the first is a natural nude face, while the second is a bold dramatic look. The fun thing about these two contrasting styles is that you can take elements from each and highlight your best features.

on Voodou Leading Liverpool ha ir sal ier in Wolstenholme descended on the Kazim autumn/winter ha ir Square to present their tit led ‘My ha ir collection. The event, en by individuality, looks fierce’ wa s inspired m the bra nds’ six with members of sta ff fro salons taking part. Managing Director Rob Webb said: “The event provided the perfect showcase for our talented stylists and a great night was had by all. For us, it’s about combining originality with the newest innovations in ha irdressing.”

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

Voodou

Natural versus Bold Beauty Over-done is out this winter and you should be aiming to look natural and wavy. Big romantic plaits are the way forward. Try sweeping one across your hair line like a headband, it’s a great way to keep hair off your face on blustery days. Hairdresser Matt Cox says: “The blonde beach-chique look of the summer is being replaced for richer, autumnal shades such as rich coppers and warmer browns and not forgetting those glossy, mahogany tones for clients that have cooler complexions. “On trend at the moment is Fearne Cotton with her movie star styled curly bob, giving her a glamorous Christmas look.”

The nude face is centered around nude lips and a fresh, flawless face. The key to this is to find the right concealer for your skin and use it to create the illusion that you aren’t wearing any make up. The nude look was seen at the Chanel runway, teamed with smokey eyes. Focus on defining your eyebrows to accentuate the natural look. Eyebrows should be boyish and strong so use a black pencil to define them which will help to frame your face. For an up to date take on smokey eyes, try using a metallic shade of eye shadow, and concentrate on the corners of your eyes. Go all or nothing with lips, either have them nude or go dramatic with plum and violet tones.

Hair In keeping with the effortless, natural look, low slung buns look great, while also being a bit dishevelled and windswept.

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Fun Time Tel: 0151 548 7125 www.funtime-liverpool.co.uk Go Kids! Play Centre Tel: 0151 486 9374 www.gokidsplaycentres.com Yellow Sub Tel: 08444 120 850 www.yellowsub.co.uk Under Water Street Tel: 0151 227 2550 www.underwaterstreet.com Just The Cupcakes Co. Tel: 07765 228009 www.justcupcakesuk.co.uk

Chester Zoo Tel: 01244 380280 www.chesterzoo.org

Aloe Angels Pamper Parties Tel: 07852 303 433 www.aloeangels.co.uk

Knowsley Safari Experience Tel: 0151 430 9009 www.knowsleysafariexperience.co.uk

Bluey and Baloo Tel: 07724 600211 www.blueyandbaloo.co.uk

Fun Town Liverpool Tel: 08445 679 677 www.funtownliverpool.co.uk

Creepy Crawley Show Tel: 0151 327 5888 www.thecreepycrawlyshow.co.uk

Cakes by Lana Tel: 07769 313 920 www.cakesbylana.co.uk

Tate Liverpool Tel: 0151 702 7400 www.tate.org.uk/liverpool

Musical Minis Tel: 0151 486 4735 www.musicalminis.co.uk

Blue Planet Aquarium Tel: 0151 357 8804 www.blueplanetaquarium.com

Big Red Bus Tel: 07824 872 159 www.redpartybus.co.uk

PARTIES & PLAYTIME

e Pa rties & Playytim Director

Top tips to creating the perfect

Christmas party Christmas is a season for spending time with the family, overeating, sleeping in the afternoons and enjoying happy times with friends. More and more people are now having Christmas parties in their homes and they can either be a major undertaking or a low-key gathering of friends. Whatever you do, be sure to plan ahead and pay attention to detail from the start. We’ve put together some top tips to help you create the perfect Christmas party:

It’s all in the planning Write a check list of the things you need to organise from the food, the drink, decorations and maybe even a DJ. Whatever you’ve decision, always keep in mind what budget you have. If you are looking for someone to provide the food for you, visit www.waitrose.com or www. marksandspencer.co.uk who both do a extensive range of party food and canapé platters to suit most occasions.

The Guestlist The number of people you are inviting will affect the food you make and the way the evening will go. If you are only having a few people coming to our home, a sit down meal may work best to create that intimate atmosphere. If you want to invite a larger number of guests, why not consider doing a buffet, where you can even get people to bring a item with them in the form of a special dish/their recipe.

It’s all in the décor By having your party at Christmas, it already means that your home will be well decorated but make sure you add a few additional extras to show people that you have made the effort for your party. Personalise name badges show a personal touch and also help guests who may not know each other to interact.

Make it a date Christmas can be a busy occasion for many so give people plenty of notice that you are having a do. To save on invites, you can alert them to your party within their Christmas card.

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Groovy Hooves What is Groovy Hooves?

PARTIES & PLAYTIME

Pa rty Fact File –

We are a family-oriented team , based in Whittle-le-Woods in Chorley. We have years of experience and a passion for horses, which means we can make a Groo vy Hooves party as enjoyable and memorab le as possible. We bring our friendly and well-beha ved Falabella (miniature) ponies to your hom e, or to another venue, to provide your child ren with great entertainment.

Who are your parties suita

ble for?

The parties are suitable for children aged from 2 years old and upwards (in line with our insurance) but we have provided ponies for 40th birthday parties too. The parties are brilliant for either a boy or girl and we can do themed parties such as Cowboys and Indians, Knights and Princesse s, Jockeys etc. We also have a fantastic pony and carriage that is great for child ren with mobility problems who are unable to ride a pony, but can get a different and equa lly memorable type of experience. Do you provide food at your parties?

Whatever the party option there will be lots of fun, games, prizes and rosettes. Childr en can pamper the ponies using our child-sized groom ing kits. We bring pretty pink, purple and blue groom ing kits which are perfect for tiny hands. The pampering is completed with glittery hoof oil, sparkly mane and tail spray and plenty of ribbons for plaiting. What areas do you travel to? We usually work across the North West region. We cover Lancashire, Merseyside, Cumb ria and Yorkshire.

We do not provide food, but can provide a bespoke Groovy Hooves cake or pony themed cake. Parties usua lly last for 1 hour 30 minutes so we suggest that the host either has the food before or after the activities, this works best as it ensures good hand hygiene. How do I know if my gard en is big enough? The Falabellas are approxim ately 32 inches high. We can visit your hom e beforehand to assess your space and ensu re that it is a safe area to host a party. Do you provide party bag

Party bags can be provided on request and these can be filled with a mix of Groovy Hooves merchandise and typic al party-bag items. How much are the parties? Our parties start from £220 for a unique party experience where your child ren can choose to transform the ponies with a pamper party or include pony rides.

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20% off all food when two people are dining with this voucher Please see website for opening times. This voucher entitles 20% off your total food bill (limited to two people). Valid from November 1st until December 31st. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. Yo! Sushi, Liverpool ONE, 14 Paradise Street, Liverpool L1 8JF 0151 515 2241 http://www.yosushi.com/

abc Woolton Day Nursery 2 weeks free childcare if you book a place this year. Expiry date 31/12/2011 abc Woolton Day Nursery - 31 Woolton Street Woolton - 0151 428 4225

FACT Get two FREE medium popcorns when you buy a Family Cinema Ticket (admits 4, £25 peak / £20 off peak) at Picturehouse at FACT. This voucher cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer and photocopies are not accepted. Only one voucher per family. Expiry: 1 February 2011. Visit www.fact.co.uk for other family films and events over this period.

Woodlands Spa & Beauty Clinic You are invited to experience a Woodlands welcoming facial & your friend goes FREE. A wonderful cleansing and hydrating treatment with hot stone massage to neck and shoulders. Terms of offer: Only to be used in the months of November, January & February. First 50 people only. Telephone: 0151 728 7652 359 Aigburth Road, Liverpool L17 0BP. 106 Quarry Street, Woolton, L25 6HG. www.woodlandsbeauty.co.uk for more offers

HOLLYWOOD BOWL Take this voucher to Hollywood bowl and pay only £5.00 for 2 games of bowling for a family of 4. Simply call for terms & conditions. Expiry 31st January 2012 Telephone: 0844 862 1464. Website: www.hollywoodbowl.co.uk Address: Edge Lane Retail Park, Edge Lane, Liverpool, L13 1EW

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VOUCHER VOUCHER

YO! SUSHI

VOUCHER

Telephone 0151 737 2266 www.neighbourhoodcafe.co.uk

VOUCHER

Book a table for the family on either a Friday or Saturday until the 30th of Dec & the kids eat for free.

VOUCHER

Kids eat for FREE

VOUCHER

PARTIES & PLAYTIME

Neighbourhood Bistro & Cafe