L IGHTS C AMERA ACTION

from 2022.23 Vale Life Winter

T HE L AB R EPORT

Guests experienced all this and more at “the event of the year” at Venetia Steele Boutique in Bridgend, in the run up to the Christmas festivities.

On arrival, Nicola’s very good friend, Erica Montgomery, greeted guests with a table full of tasty goodies and a glass (or two) of bubbly. That certainly got the evening started and everyone in a great mood.

Speaking of good mood, who could not have had their spirits raised after having their photo taken with Thomas Ninnis Jnr, who welcomed everyone with a ho, ho, ho, and the opportunity of a selfie or “elfie” as they were called on the night. Thomas braved the cold and wore only a pair of bottoms and a hat (plus some bronzing, courtesy of Nic!) and this didn’t go unnoticed or appreciated!

Whilst the ladies were enjoying browsing the rails and trying on some of the latest stock, there was plenty more to see and do. Make up transformations were courtesy of Jules Colley, Tom Ford make-up artist. Janet Shambler had a stall promoting her lovely knitwear brand ‘Nitty Noo Noo’ and also promoted her late father’s paintings. We featured Bryan’s work in an earlier edition of Vale Life, and Tom A C Godsall showcased his fabulous hand-made make-up bags (check out his Insta page @bespoke_by_tom).

The event was in aid of Hope Rescue (www.hoperescue.org.uk), a registered charity dear to Nicola’s heart, that saves stray and abandoned dogs in South Wales. Nicola is a dog owner and Hope Rescue is her chosen charity. The boutique managed to raise an impressive £677.50 on the night from the raffle alone.

With Nicola’s seventeen years with Monet Jewellery in a past life, she is delighted to announce that she is having a mini refit for a new department within the boutique which will showcase a stunning range of jewellery, leather bags and scarves.

“I feel with my experience in the industry, I’m going back to my roots and bringing out the glamour in quality accessories that help make an outfit really stand out,” says Nicola. “So far, the response from my customers has been amazing. They love the bags and jewellery that I was able to showcase on the night.”

“Like sleigh bells, the till was ringing all evening which was great, but what pleased me more was how much my clients loved my new bag and jewellery ranges. They really do add the finishing touches to any outfit. I’m not keen on the phrase “one-stop-shop” but I have to admit it fits the bill perfectly. My customers can now come in and, together, we can choose an outfit for daytime through to evening and add those all-important accessories.”

“I’m already working on my next event and plan to have a range of different events throughout the year, so please, everyone, keep an eye on my Facebook page for more information and book those tickets! They really do go like hot cakes, and I wouldn’t want anyone to miss out,” Nicola added.

Nicola wants to send a special thank you to: Thomas Ninnis Jnr for being a fabulous Santa sport. Jules Colley. Tom Ford make-up artist, Erica Montgomery. Rachel Lewis (Hope Rescue). Beverly Rosser-Smith. Dave Edwards of Lanelay Hall for his kind donation of 2 Spa Day Tickets for the raffle. Andy Kykohszyn (music man), and Zara Evans. With their kindness the event raised an impressive £677.00 for the Hope Rescue charity.

Sue Gerrard, Bridgend

Nicola always has something to suit my taste and figure. She’s a great hostess. She knows my preferences with colours and style. She always suggests something fabulous which takes the stress out of shopping. I also love the fact that she supports local charities.