C ITY L IFE AUTUMN 201 5
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THE CITY OF CARDIFF’S PREMIER LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
C ITY L IFE Editor Jennifer Hobbs-Roberts jennifer@goodlifepublishing.co.uk Creative Director Mark Roberts mark@goodlifepublishing.co.uk Editorial Thomas Goodyear editorial@goodlifepublishing.co.uk Features Lucy Atkinson lucy@goodlifepublishing.co.uk
www.citylifecardiff.com 0845 180 2345 Cardiff House, Cardiff Road, Cardiff CF63 2AW Passionate about Cardiff We are a small independent publisher. We are not a large publishing group pretending to be home grown. City Life magazine is written, designed and printed in Cardiff for the people of Cardiff. Our philosophy We are committed to quality. This quote by William Foster pretty much sums up our thinking: “Quality is never an accident; it is always the result of high intention, sincere effort, intelligent direction and skillful execution; it represents the wise choice of many alternatives.” Caveat emptor Advertisers supply their own copy or artwork, and therefore City Life cannot accept any responsibility for disputes between advertisers and their customers. Caveat emptor - let the buyer beware. Important you read this We have made every effort to ensure that all information contained in City Life or on www.citylifecardiff.com (or our social media streams) is correct and accurate. However, we accept no responsibility for any errors or omissions and can offer no compensation should we get it wrong. Please note that the opinions, thoughts, views or ideas expressed in articles contained in City Life are strictly those of the authors. Intellectual property © Copyright City Life 2015. All rights reserved. Nothing in this magazine (including adverts) may be reproduced in any shape or form (in whole or part) without the express written permission of the publishers. We take breach of copyright and theft of intellectual property extremely seriously and will sue at the drop of a croissant. You have been warned (nicely); ignorance is no excuse. Subscriptions To guarantee your copy, please send a cheque for £20 (four issues) made payable to City Life. Visit www.citylifecardiff.com for special subscriber discounts and special offers. Missed the last issue? We hold a small number of each issue in stock so if you do need a pristine copy, please telephone us or email jennifer@citylifecardiff.co.uk. Hopefully we’ll have the issue you want (but we cannot guarantee it). Each back issue costs £5 including postage and packing.
W ELCOME I can’t begin to describe how happy I am with this latest issue of Cardiff’s City Life. It’s full to the brim of exciting businesses both new and a few you already know and love. I have thoroughly enjoyed getting to know existing customers a little better and meeting new ones. This last season has all been about growth. I see Cardiff growing as a city. New buildings are popping up everywhere and new independent businesses are starting up. This is all good for our Cardiff and the people who live and work in it. I’m delighted to say that City Life magazine has grown as well since I’ve joined the team. On a personal level, I have also grown. Perhaps not in height, but in my role. Business development isn’t my background. I was a mechanic in a previous life. I don’t know if that’s helped me, but I do love meeting people and I suppose it’s meant that I don’t come across as a pushy person. Speaking of cars (drawing on my experience as a mechanic), it was great to meet Lyn from Maserati, who are showcased on the front cover this season and who feature on page 16. Having been a mechanic, I do love cars - more driving them than working on them these days!
If you’d like to promote your business please call me on 07787 907926
I may not be able to afford a Maserati just yet but just sitting in one for a minute makes me appreciate the design, craft and technological brilliance that comes together to create such beautiful machines. Hey, we can all dream! Lewis Evans Client Relationship Director 07787 907926 lewis@goodlifepublishing.co.uk
Yes it’s free. Priceless actually! City Life is distributed free through a wide variety of outlets across Cardiff and beyond and is given away free of charge on the understanding that we are happy for it to be lent, passed on, given to friends and generally read until it falls apart. At which point, you can recycle it and we’d be delighted if you did. Green is good The pulp used in the production of the paper City Life is printed on is sourced from sustainably managed Scandinavian tree farms and utilises an elementary chlorine-free bleaching process.
We’re very sociable! We’re on the web! www.citylifecardiff.com Like on Facebook! www.facebook.com/CityLifeCardiff Follow on Twitter! @CityLifeCardiff #CityLifeCardiff
CITY LIFE WOULD LIKE TO THANK EVERYONE WHO HAS SUPPORTED US OVER RECENT MONTHS. OUR CONTRIBUTORS, OUR FAMILIES, OUR FRIENDS (INCLUDING ALL THE NEW ONES WE HAVE MADE) AND OUR ADVERTISERS - WITHOUT THEM CITY LIFE WOULD NOT HAVE BEEN POSSIBLE. WE HOPE YOU LIKE WHAT WE’VE PRODUCED AND WE’LL TRY TO MAKE EACH ISSUE EVEN BETTER THAN THE LAST AND IF YOU HAVE A STORY THAT YOU’D LIKE TO SHARE, PLEASE GET IN TOUCH. CITY LIFE IS REGISTERED AT THE BRITISH LIBRARY AS A MAGAZINE ISSN 1757-1723. FOR TERMS AND CONDITIONS PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT WWW.CITYLIFEMAG.CO.UK - COVER IMAGE COURTESY OF MASERATI.
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We love it when something special happens in Cardiff - an event that makes us proud to be Cardiffians. Waking up to The Ball In The Wall was certainly one of those special moments. It was a bold, inspired, confident statement and one that has echoed around the world putting Cardiff, Welsh rugby and the Rugby World Cup firmly on the map.
Photo by Nicola Jeakins
AROUND THE CITY PENARTH ROAD
Italian job! The Welsh/Italian connection is one that most Cardiffians are very proud of. You may recall we featured restaurateur Giovanni Malacrino on the cover of the last issue and the Italian theme continues into the autumn with the beautiful Maserati Ghibli adorning our cover. You can read more about this beautiful marque and the plans General Manager, Lyn Evans, and Motorline Maserati has for expanding the Cardiff showroom on pages 16. Motorline Maserati Cardiff 291 Penarth Road, Cardiff CF11 8TT 029 2066 6472 www.motorline.co.uk/maserati LESS GENERIC, MORE UNUSUAL
Annie & Co The satisfaction of making something with your hands has made a huge comeback - we no longer want to buy items unless they’re special. But it is becoming increasingly hard to find more unusual handmade quality items. At Annie & Co we have unique items from over a dozen different creators; from jewellery and textile artists to locally made candles and up-cycled clocks. We also provide a myriad of workshops to help you find your style and add a personal touch of your own. 11 High Street, Cardiff CF10 1AW 07760 994929 www.annieco.bigcartel.com Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter 8
CARDIFF AND GLAMORGAN
MEMORIAL PARK AND CREMATORIUM
DISTINGUISHED SERVICE IN A BEAUTIFUL SETTING Our Memorial Park is a new concept and opened in October 2011. Its facility innovation and use of local materials makes it a serene, personal and beautiful place. It is set in 20 acres of parkland and offers natural burial, traditional burial and cremation with local memorialisation. Cardiff and Glamorgan Memorial Park and Crematorium Port Road East, Vale of Glamorgan CF62 9PX T. 01446 724040 F. 01446 724042 Office hours: 9.00am to 5.00pm
CARDIFF
Parkhouse Jewellers Wins Prestigious Watch Accolade The time was right for watch specialist, Tony Watkins from Parkhouse Cardiff, who earlier this month was named one of the British watch industry’s key executives, at a National Awards event in London. Mr Watkins from Cwmbran, South Wales, was awarded the prestigious title of ‘Retail Titan’ and has made it onto the annual WatchPro Hot 100, a definitive list of the most powerful executives in the British watch industry today. He has worked at Parkhouse for over 4 years and is renowned for his deep passion and expertise in fine watches, having helped the jewellers bring together one of the largest collection of watches outside of London. The WatchPro Hot 100, now in its third year, reflects the quality and diversity of the British watch industry. It’s unique because it celebrates not only the most successful businesses in the UK, but much more it identifies the individuals and teams that have made the biggest contribution to their success.
Tony Watkins has built a fantastic client base throughout his years with Parkhouse the Jeweller using his extensive knowledge, passion for Watches and his drive to ensure each Parkhouse customer is amazed by the wonderful service, he is an example to his colleagues across the business. Parkhouse is a 6th generation family jewellers. Its first store opened some 220 years ago in Southampton, with the store in Cardiff opening in 2000. Parkhouse Cardiff is home to a good selection of watch brands, styles and price ranges. Brands include; Cartier, Chopard, IWC, Longines, Omega and TAG. 10
They also have a Pre-Owned collection, which is ideal for those looking for a classic timepiece at a keener price. Parkhouse Cardiff St David’s, 27 The Hayes, Cardiff CF10 1GA 02920 660 890 www.parkhousethejeweller.com
“Parkhouse is a 6th generation family jewellers. Its first store opened some 220 years ago in Southampton.”
In City Life summer, we got to know the man behind the successful Giovanni’s restaurant brand which currently boasts two city centre restaurants on The Hayes and Park Place, as well as a cookery school and training room. His first restaurant opened in 1983 and proudly claims to be the longest established independent Italian in the city. Over the years Giovanni has built successful businesses and has become renowned as one of the most charismatic entrepreneurs in the city.
FAMILY MAN You are known for being a proud family man, please tell us more... I’ve got two families, one in the traditional sense, and the other being my staff who I class as family. I must give credit to my parents - who came to Cardiff when I was very young, with only two suitcases, the equivalent of £10 and two young children in tow. They came under a fixed contract, worked and believed they could create a better life and I acknowledge them for being brave. My dad was the first of the Malacrino family to go into catering as he took over a run-down fish and chip shop in Grangetown not long after we moved to Wales. My mum and Nan spotlessly cleaned it and, in addition to the traditional chicken curry half and half, added their authentic Spaghetti Bolognese to the menu. The hard graft was worth it as within months it was one of the busiest fish and chip shops in Cardiff.
They took the opportunity, worked hard and brought us up to be proud Welsh Italians. I am forever grateful. How important is it to you for Giovanni’s to remain an independent, family run business? On one hand I want to remain family run for all that it encapsulates which, for Giovanni’s, stands for looking after customers, entertaining customers and valuing customers. However, this is challenging as on the other hand I want to grow the business into a multi-national so that the Malacrino legacy lives on. My ambition is to grow the Giovanni’s Restaurant Group with members of my loyal team, so they rise through the ranks understanding Giovanni’s heritage. I think if they’re part of the journey, then we can grow whilst still retaining our independent ethos and integrity. 12
Do you think your children will follow in your footsteps, please tell us more about them? The business will be there should they want to enhance, promote or grow it, but they must live their dream not mine. The restaurants are there to support my children and their future but they have their own aspirations! My son, Gianluca, came into the family business and went on to create two well-known successful brands in Cardiff; Kapu and Ladybird Nightclub. He then chose to take what I’ve always done as a bit of fun, which is TV and film, to the next level and moved to LA to achieve his dreams of becoming a respected actor. He is about to graduate from a leading film school and has just finished filming his second short movie. Gianluca is extremely driven and focused and I’ll be behind him every step of the way.
“ My ambition is to grow the Giovanni’s Restaurant Group with members of my loyal team, so they rise through the ranks understanding Giovanni’s heritage.”
My daughter, Ileana, also seems to have the creative gene and wants to go into PR and media. Ileana has her mother’s organisation skills and her father’s flair and personality, so I’m confident she is going to achieve great things in the world of public relations and, hopefully, one day run her own company. Who will you be supporting during the Rugby World Cup? Wales always, my favourite saying is “My heart is Italian, but my wallet is Welsh”, I support the country that has supported me and my family.
become an ‘Italian Welsh dragon, invest time and money in others and, most importantly, continue the good work of my charity foundation, GIO’S. My purpose in life is to learn and help teach others how to live, love, laugh and grow whilst creating an abundance of wealth that I am able to share with others, especially those less fortunate.
“ I support the country that has supported me and my family.”
You have achieved so much, what are your future goals and ambitions? I really feel that after thirty years in business I’m just starting out again. I’m more confident, I’ve been through every scene and now I know the way forward, I’ve been through it and come out the other end. My dreams are simple - grow the Giovanni’s brand and launch my own sauce label - continue to build on my life coaching skills,
Christmas bookings now being taken Giovanni’s On the Hayes (38) Cardiff CF10 1AJ 029 2022 0077 onthehayes@giovanniscardiff.co.uk www.giovanniscardiff.co.uk Giovanni’s in Park Place (8) Park Place, Cardiff CF10 3DP 029 2022 6299 inparkplace@giovanniscardiff.co.uk www.giovanniscardiff.co.uk/park-place Find us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, TripAdvisor, Google+ and Pinterest
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SOUTH WALES
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Self storage in Wales just got better! When storing your personal belongings or business effects you want reassurance that you are in safe and trusted hands. Masons, one of the longest established names in the removals and storage industry, are proud to unveil their newly refurbished, highly secure self storage facility. In addition to the Classic Self Storage solution they are delighted to announce two new, unique services: Mobile Self Storage and Trailer Pick Up Service making storage even easier.
“No need to hire a van, no need to bring the car, we can take care of it all for you and bring Self Storage direct to your door, wherever that may be in the Vale or South Wales. So whether you want to do it all yourself, or to leave the driving to us you know that you will be in safe hands.”
“ One of the longest established and most trusted names in the removals and storage industry.”
Masons Self Storage The Storage Centre Priority Enterprise Park Cardiff Road, Barry, Vale of Glamorgan CF63 2BG For a no obligation quotation call FREE on 0800 141 3680 www.masonsselfstorage.co.uk info@masonsselfstorage.co.uk
LONDON
Gabriella bakes a win! Most of us do things or take part in events to see if we are up to the challange. It could be running that half marathon you’ve always watched or scaling that mountain you see everyday in the distance. In pàtissiere Gabriella Cugno’s case it was to take part in the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts, Annual Awards of Excellence which she then promptly won. With the semi-final and final held at the University of West London, Gabriella went on to showcase her skills in sugar sculpture, Bouche Noel, chocolate work, pastry products and petit fours, and then proudly receive the Young Pastry Chef of the Year 2015 award.
For Gabriella, winning was quite a surprise. “I was in no way expecting to win,” she exclaimed after the awards dinner at Claridges Hotel. “It’s such an incredible award, one of the most renowned in the industry. I am truly honoured and extremely proud.”
P R E V E N T I O N & R E H A B I L I TAT I O N
Health & Sports Physiotherapy This unique practice is dedicated to prevention, diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of sports injuries and muscoskeletal problems. Every single client receives an in depth, personal treatment as well as rehabilitation programs that help facilitate longterm recovery. We work closely with national teams and sporting institutions, having consulted with numerous sports clubs in Cardiff and across South Wales. 50 - 52 Station Road, Llanishen CF14 5QP 029 2076 2000 www.healthandsports.co.uk Like on Facebook #GwybodMedrIachau Follow on Twitter @HealthSportsUK 14
In addition to the trophy she also received a Mac knife set, an educational trip worth £2,000 and work experience with the culinary genius Heston Blumenthal. So the next time you feel like challenging yourself, go ahead, you never know what may happen!
CARDIFF & LONDON
Introducing Danielle Danielle Fahiya is an actress, writer and commercial model based between Cardiff and London.
If you’re a fab little café or boutique or a great gift shop, butcher, baker or candlestick maker, please get in touch – we’d love to meet you in our next issue. Similarly, if you’re a reader and know a business that you feel could have, or should have been featured, then please let me know. lewis@goodlifepublishing.co.uk
THE HAND-MADE GIFT MARKET
Boutique Gift Market The Boutique Gift Market is a collection of local businesses who sell a wonderful range of hand-made and unique products. The Boutique Gift Market includes businesses such as Purple Valley Design, G E L AT O H O U S E
Green & Jenks Since opening in July, thousands of people have enjoyed the delicious home made gelatos made on site at Green & Jenks, located in a beautiful Georgian house with a secret courtyard garden in the centre of Monmouth. The idea came from the owner’s ancestors who ran the Roath Park Dairy Company, based on Albany Road Cardiff, which opened in 1888 and closed in 1958. After a conversation with her mother, the idea came to re-launch but as an ice cream business, something the family’s ancestors had planned to do back in the 1950s.
After competing in the Miss UK finals and then gaining a degree in modern history and politics, Danielle decided to return to her first love of acting and has since developed an interest in creating her own work. “I am currently writing, producing and performing in my first theatre production; ‘Besame Mucho: A Cuban Political Love story’, with Welsh playwright Carmen Medway-Stephens supported by Wales Millennium Centre,” says Danielle. To find out more please visit her website www.daniellefahiya.wordpress.com Follow on Twitter @TheWelshExotic
Mrs Jo Bangles, Mark Lewis Photography, Rhiannon Art, Garth Mountain Silver, Trysori, Leaf & Petal, Ledled y Byd and Immy’s Woodcraft.
Watch out for details of the Christmas Boutique Gift Market that is taking place in Cardiff City Centre for six weeks from mid-November.
Norwegian Church, Cardiff Bay Saturday 17th October 2015 Sunday 18th October 2015 Saturday 7th November 2015 Sunday 8th November 2015
Norwegian Church, Cardiff Bay CF10 4PA Organised by Marsh Marketing 07969 536321 www.marshmarketing.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter
Using the surnames of her family, Green & Jenks is almost identical to the original business; taking milk from local farms, pasteurising on site and making it into delicious artisan dairy products. In addition to the wide range of gelato flavours available, they also offer a range of locally-sourced cakes, teas and an excellent coffee. New additions are on offer every month, such as freshly made waffles and supper evenings with antipasta, Prosecco and a wide range of desserts and, of course, gelato! 11 Agincourt Square, Monmouth NP25 3DY 01600 711657 www.greenandjenks.com Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter 15
To fans of Maserati, the resurgence of the iconic Italian brand in recent years is, like the new models, pretty breathtaking. The increasing sales, development and planned expansion of Maserati Cardiff seem to confirm what Maserati already know - the Welsh love Maserati. City Life talks to Lyn Evans, Maserati’s General Manager in Cardiff.
How long have you worked at Maserati? Since April 1st this year, the date that Motorline took over the business. Have you always worked in the car industry? I have been in the industry for over 20 years now, mainly prestige - many years with Audi and Lexus, but nothing quite as high end as Maserati. Please tell us a little about the Maserati marque? The luxury marque was founded in 1914 in Bologna by Alfieri Maserati and two of his brothers. At first they devoted themselves to the construction of racing cars, then to sports cars and small series grantourers and, subsequently, to those of large series. Following last year’s 100th anniversary celebrations, Maserati is looking to its future, with the firm promise that the next 100 years will be ‘The Absolute Opposite of Ordinary’. Among other ambitious developments, Maserati is looking to introduce the brand-new Levante SUV in the UK in 2016 and the stunning Alfieri 2+2 coupe in 2017.
What do you think the Maserati brand stands for? What are its core values? Our recent brand mission statement sums up the company’s aspirations: ‘Build ultra-luxury performance automobiles with timeless Italian style, accommodating bespoke interiors, and effortless, signature sounding power’. Maserati is, we believe, the Grand Tourer brand. After the introduction of the A6 Pininfarina back in 1947 (affectionately known as the GranTurismo), Maserati has developed cars with the same ethos performance orientated, elegant, practical and luxurious. What type of person buys a Maserati? It’s difficult to define as our customer base is quite diverse. It is fair to say that historically, Maserati has generally attracted clients who were business owners or entrepreneurs. With the introduction of Ghibli, we have seen a new generation of clients heralding from the world of corporate business as Directors or Senior Managers. However, attitudinally, they all share similar traits they tend to be cultured, well-educated and happy to stand out from the crowd, appreciating the exclusivity and understated nature of the Maserati brand. 16
Is a Maserati affordable? What are the running costs? The introduction of the Ghibli, Maserati’s mid-size four-door luxury sports saloon, has made Maserati’s perfect combination of design, sports performance and comfort more accessible than ever, with an on-the-road price starting from £49,160 or £445 per month plus VAT. The diesel option is powered by a 3.0 litre V6 turbo-diesel and delivers an economical 47.9 MPG, helping to keep running costs down. What sets Maserati apart? Maserati has long and glorious heritage. For over 100 years, it has played a consistently important role in the history of sports car culture and its development. Maserati has also continued to lead the way in automotive fashion; with unique cars, elegant yet sporty, always with highly personal, distinctive lines. This has resulted in Maserati being one of the most evocative names in automotive history.
“ Elegant yet sporty, always with highly personal, distinctive lines.”
TOP MARQUE What do you enjoy about your role? It is a very exciting brand to be involved with - the customers are successful people who are really interesting and every day is different. When we have provided an amazing experience whilst supplying their cars it gives us a huge sense of achievement. Do you own a Maserati? Unfortunately not, but of course working for the brand I do get to drive them often and enjoy being around them almost every day.
Which is your favourite model? I have to say I love them all but, if I had to choose a favourite, I think it would be the GranTurismo. What are your plans for the future? We have a big refurbishment starting at the end of October that will be complete by the end of the year. It’ll be fantastic. It will give us the platform to keep up the level of service our customers require and help us keep marketing the brand right through Wales.
Motorline Maserati Cardiff 291 Penarth Road, Cardiff CF11 8TT 029 2066 6472 www.motorline.co.uk/maserati
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As an avid fan of Bryl’s Boutique on Barry’s High Street, I just couldn’t wait to see what the new season had to offer. I know this could be said for any boutique but I speak from the heart and my purse, when I say that I’m never disappointed when I walk through the door.
BRYL’S BOUTIQUE
Along with every customer, I am immediately greeted with a warm smile. I’m left to browse but Ann, Lousha or Natasha are always available to offer suggestions on what they think might suit me. It helps when boutique owners are familiar with your shape and immediately know what will flatter. I was keen to ask what I might find there this autumn. So what can we expect from Bryl’s? Well as you know we stock a real mix of brands, including Ted Baker, French Connection, Great Plains, Yaya, Darling, Sandwich, Masai, NYDJ and Isabella. What that means is that whether you are looking for casual every day wear, a top for a night out or something for a special occasion, we’ve got it covered. Whatever the style, the age and the budget - there really is something for everyone.
How about for this autumn/winter can we expect to see any changes? We are really lucky that with the brands we stock, the designers are always moving things forward to keep things fresh and on trend. We’ve also added a new brand, Joules, which offers really stylish casual wear and gorgeous but practical outer wear at affordable prices. Ooh and accessories - lots more accessories. More accessories - I saw your eyes light up then - tell me more? We’ve always stocked hand bags and accessories by Ted Baker, French Connection and Ugg and jewellery by Bibi Bijoux, but we’ve now got a lot more to offer. We’ve got a new range of Italian bags, which are fantastic on quality and price as they range between £49 to £59. We’ve also introduced Estella Bartlett jewellery, which is really dainty - so very on trend. With its lovely packaging - it makes gorgeous gifts. 20
As do our Ted Baker jewellery and watches, there’s lots of sparkle and rose gold, it all comes in a Ted Baker gift box and looks much more expensive than it is (earrings are around £25 and bracelets/ necklaces £35). Then there’s our new range of faux fur by Helen Moore - think scarves, collars, cuffs, head bands and gilets. It is absolutely stunning and we’ve had a fantastic reaction to it already. We’ve fallen in love with the stuff and we love the whole ethos of the brand too - everything is made in Britain which is really rare these days! So what trends are ‘en vogue’? Faux fur is massive for Autumn/Winter as are capes and ponchos. There’s also a real nod to the 70 s in lots of collections with details such as tassles and fringing.
“There really is something for everyone.”
“ It always comes down to good service. We get to know our customers, know what they like and what suits their body shape and will suggest items that we know will work for them.” I’m seeing lots of colour… Yes, there is lots of colour this season. Brands like French Connection have used vibrant pop colours in purple, pink, red and acid blonde. The dominating colour for Ted Baker this season is purple and there is also lots of berry around - that’s really on trend. Those who don’t like colour don’t need to worry though as there are still plenty of the classic winter colours - grey, black, cream and loads of navy too. How about footwear? What are Ugg Australia doing this season? We’ve got a really wide selection of Uggs again this year. We are still doing the classic styles that Ugg are famous for but we’ve also moved things on with a wide range of fashion boots. We’ve got a real mix from Chelsea boots to high heeled shoe boots. The great thing about the fashion Uggs is that they are really stylish yet they are so comfortable too.
What do you think brings your customers back to you time and time again? Our prices are competitive and we have a fantastic range of quality brands that our customers have come to rely on. We also get to know our customers, what they like and what suits their body shape and will suggest items that we know will work for them. As well as that we absolutely love what we do so hopefully that shines through.
Bryl’s Boutique 7 High Street, Barry Vale Of Glamorgan CF62 7DZ 01446 748246 brylsboutique@hotmail.co.uk Like on Facebook - brylsboutique Follow on Twitter - @brylsboutique
Founded and run by the lovely Anna, Wondrously Welsh is a newly opened independent shop based in the beautiful and historic Morgan Arcade, found within the very heart of Cardiff City Centre.
WONDROUSLY
WELSH
Brought up in rural West Wales Anna’s childhood was filled with everything important; a sense of home, large family gatherings and traditional food by the bucket load. As she grew up her life’s journey took her from the country to the big city, moving to London for work after following in her grandfather’s accountancy footsteps. A while later Wales started to pull at her coattails, wanting her to return home to the country she grew up in. At the start of 2015, after having settled in Cardiff for some time, an opportunity to start her own business presented itself allowing her to create a place that is filled with things that she is passionate about… Wales and food! It was then that Wondrously Welsh was set up and, in July of 2015, the doors opened to Cardiff ’s latest independent shop that showcases and champions products ‘Made in Wales’. Initially, Wondrously Welsh was founded on the basis of bringing the finest quality food from all four corners of Wales to the Welsh Capital.
However, after researching potential suppliers, it became obvious that in addition to the abundance of fantastic food producers in Wales, there were also talented crafts people creating, by hand, the most beautiful items for the kitchen, home and table. So the two were brought together under one roof. When you walk through the doors of Wondrously Welsh you are met with a showcase of delicious food, for day to day living, fine dining, the perfect foodie gift or a little bit of indulgence are all available. More than enough to tantalise the most ardent food lovers amongst you. Many of the suppliers are award winning, having been recognised for the dedication and passion they put into producing the very best produce, right here in Wales. In addition to the food there are beautiful items for the kitchen, table and home. Wood bowls, platters, serving and chopping boards, individually hand-forged cheese knives and herb choppers also grace the shelves. There are also hand-thrown ceramics, as uniquely individual as they are attractive and functional, and Welsh slate, something that every home should not be without. 22
By only stocking products ‘Made in Wales’, something Anna is extremely proud of, Wondrously Welsh is unique in Cardiff. She believes that both visitors and locals alike desire authentic Welsh made products at a reasonable and affordable price. With ongoing plans to establish and grow the business, as well as continuing to support the fantastic Welsh producers, Anna remains committed to bringing the very best from around Wales to the capital.
Wondrously Welsh 17 Morgan Arcade, Cardiff CF10 1AF www.wondrouslywelsh.com anna@wondrouslywelsh.com Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter Images by Photography At Twenty Six Find and Like on Facebook
CA R D I F F & VA L E
Make a dash for cash in the bay and join our sprinting Santas and elfy helpers Ho, ho, ho. Have fun this Christmas and go that extra mile for charity by joining Welsh Hearts for an all-Wales festive life-saving 5k Dash, Walk, Jog or run around Mermaid Quay and Cardiff Bay on December 6th. Get your hearts beating faster this Christmas with this great Sunday event which will bring the whole community together. Join over 1,000 Santas and elves. This family festive fun event is open to everyone - So go on “Be Elfy” this Christmas! Join the fun and be part of something truly Santa-Fantastic this Christmas season and join the Festive Dash to save lives in Wales!
All money raised will fund defibrillators and life saving equipment in communities through-out Wales, CPR sessions and support our heart screening sessions for 14 to 35 years of age which cost the charity £3,500 per session!
Suitable for all ages. £8 Registration to include a t-shirt, water, a goody bag and a certificate. Family of four £24. Sponsor forms available.
For more information how you can support Welsh Hearts this Christmas and help us to save more lives in Wales contact The Fundraising Office on 02920 786521 or email fundraising&welshhearrs.org
All children under 16 encouraged to wear fancy dress - prizes for the best dressed on the day. There plenty of opportunities for s-Elfies!
To book a place contact 029 2078 6521 fundraising@welshhearts.org www.welshhearts.org/santa
HELP US SAVE LIVES IN WALES
HELPWCH NI I ACHUB BYWYDAU YNG NGHYMRU
Registered charity 1154109
HELP US GET A
DEFIBRILLATOR
Welsh Hearts aim to get a defibrillator next to every fire extinguisher in Wales. We’d like to support your community to fundraise locally and obtain a defibrillator. We’ll also provide FREE CPR and defibrillator training to the public from qualified medical professionals who are working in Wales.
COMMUNITY
For more information, please contact
INTO YOUR
029 2078 6521 fundraising@welshhearts.org Please visit welshhearts.org
Fancy a new hobby? Or brushing up on existing skills? We headed to the home of Snowsport Wales, Cardiff ’s Ski and Snowboarding Centre in Fairwater, for a chat with Manager Richard Hughes. Hi Richard, can you tell us a bit about your ski centre? Cardiff Ski and Snowboard Centre is one of the oldest ski slopes in the UK. Built in 1969, the original slope was only 90m long, with no drag lift and no crash mats at the end if you forgot how to stop! In 1984 the slope went through significant changes as management was handed over from the local council to Snowsport Cymru Wales (the governing body of snow sports in Wales) and the slope was extended to 110m, with a counter-slope at the bottom and a further 10m of slope at the top. In 1970, Cardiff Ski Club was founded and still runs today. The Ski Club, who meet every Tuesday evening, has produced a number of national level ski competitors and continues to introduce the highly competitive sport of ski racing to young people around Cardiff. In 2012, the Snowboard Club was founded by a few of our instructors. Meeting on a Sunday night, this club has grown exponentially over the last few years, morphing into a freestyle club, where freestyle skiers and snowboarders can learn and progress under the advice and instruction of our experienced instructors. Our highly qualified instructors have travelled and lived all over the world in pursuit of snow sports and can always be relied on to get you excited about the snow and the sport you’re doing. We provide activities for all levels and ages in individual, group and recreational settings. We run over 11,000 sessions a year and provide special deals for schools, charities and businesses. We run instructor courses, junior ski and snowboard school at the weekends, school events and competitions, and will soon be introducing package deals with other sports facilities in Cardiff.
CARDIFF SKI & What type of skiers are your main clients? We get a whole range of abilities coming to learn with us. The majority of adult customers we see during the winter months are first timers or beginners wanting to have a few lessons to make the most out of their first, second or third holiday. Similarly, a lot of children who go on a skiing trip with their schools will come for a group of lessons with their school, or join our ski and snowboard schools at the weekend. We also get a number of more advanced clients who are looking at developing their techniques to push themselves from competent skiers to good, technical all-mountain skiers and snowboarders. While these are few, we often see them at least once a week over the whole winter, utilising our race club, freestyle clubs or a series of private lessons.
“Our new features cater for every ability - from first timers at freestyle to nationally and internationally competitive skiers and snowboarders.” 24
We hear an Olympic ski champion used your slopes to practice - what can you tell us about that? We do indeed have a small claim to fame here, although unfortunately due to injury Rob did not manage to compete on the main stage. Rob Taylor is from Barry, and while he grew up roller blading with his brother, he took to skiing really quickly, becoming a fantastic half-pipe skier and gained a place on the GB team. He now spends most of the winter in Morzine, but often graces us with his presence for a bit of pre-season training and postseason socials. He often comes to our first freestyle event of the year to have a play and show everyone how it’s really done.
We also have a number of very successful ski racers that began at our slope, and progressed through the Ski Club. Tell us about your plans for children’s skiing in the school holidays? During each holiday we put on a range of kids camps that offer something for everyone. However, these do change each holiday depending on our instructors, our facilities, and events and courses we may hold.
Rob Taylor
SNOWBOARD CENTRE We always try to offer a ‘learn to ski/ snowboard in day/two days’ course a super intensive 4-8 hours of skiing that is guaranteed to make each child feel confident on their equipment. With a maximum of ten skiing, and only six snowboarding, these can really kick-start kids into snow sports as a whole.
For those who are able to ski, we offer improvers camps, where we aim to make them feel super confident, having fun and trying some new things. In these camps, we try to encourage kids to be a bit more adventurous with their skiing, exploring the beginnings of freestyle or ski racing. It is at this point that we like to show children (and adults) that skiing and snowboarding isn’t just something you do when you go on holiday, but that it can be a really fun hobby and sport that you can do all year round. What plans do you have for the future? 2015 is actually a very exciting year for the ski centre. We’re modernising the whole look of the business, inside and out, with some exciting building projects, a new website and media projects to show Cardiff, and the rest of the UK, what we do here.
Late in 2014, we received a freestyle development grant from the government which has allowed us to invest a huge amount into new facilities, staff training and equipment.
Our new features cater for every ability - from first timers at freestyle, to nationally and internationally competitive skiers and snowboarders. Our staff will be attending freestyle coaching courses and adaptive skiing courses, allowing them to not only coach young freestyle athletes, but also begin to teach those with disabilities to adapt themselves to snow sports.
So if you’re looking for a snow sports facility, conveniently placed right in the middle of Cardiff, run by staff who are obviously driven by their passion and enthusiasm for the sports, this is it. We’re intrigued by some of the new features, and we’ll be back to learn more about freestyle - so watch this space.
We have also been able to invest in some new skis, snowboards and boots that are more suited to freestylers including a number of twin-tipped skis and great quality, buttery (flexible) snowboards. While we are already the leading freestyle ski slope in wales, we hope to become a more prominent slope in the UK through freestyle.
“ We run instructor courses, junior ski and snowboard school at the weekends...” 25
Cardiff Ski and Snowboard Centre 198 Fairwater Road Fairwater Cardiff CF5 3JR 029 2056 1793 www.skicardiff.co.uk Like on Facebook
Justin Maunder and Mike Pycroft of JMP Group pride themselves on a ‘pressure off ’ approach to business. Quite refreshing in a sector that is notoriously high pressure in its approach. We talk to Mike to find out more.
VALE GLAZING & VALUEFOLD
What experience do you have in the industry? We both have over fifteen years experience in the conservatory/double glazing industry and have worked for national, large independent and local companies. We have gained valuable experience along the way. We feel we can offer the very best products at a fair price and have a passion for customer service. What services and products do you offer? JMP is able to supply and fit orangeries, tiled roof sunrooms as well as conservatories and porches. We also do garage conversions, PVCu windows/doors, composite doors and replacement rainwater goods. Do you have a particular area of expertise? Replacement conservatory roofs is also a speciality of ours, where a lightweight tiled/slate roof replaces a polycarbonate or glass roof - the existing conservatory may be too hot in the summer and freezing cold in the winter. The new roof gives the clients back a room that they can use 52 weeks of the year.
“ We feel we can offer the very best products at a fair price.”
The Valuefold arm to our business specialises in aluminium products. Aluminium is rapidly becoming the product of choice for the discerning customer. Advancements in thermal performance of aluminium combined with outstanding performance and durability enables the products to not only be very aesthetically pleasing but also gives slimmer site lines in comparison to PVCu. We sell a substantial amount of bi-folding doors and, with most of our projects, the clients do choose to add the ‘Blinds-InGlass’ option for the complete solution for shading as well as privacy. We have an excellent relationship with our fabricator and can generally supply and fit aluminium products within three weeks of a confirmed order in our standard colour offerings of White, Anthracite Grey, Black or the dual colour option Anthracite Grey on White. Testament to our expertise in this field is proven by the number of developers and builders that we also supply, and we are the approved supplier to many architects in the principality. What areas do you cover? We cover all of South Wales but have also carried out contracts in the Bristol area, Gloucester and Devon. 27
What do you believe makes JMP Group special? What sets you apart? JMP Group offers exceptional quality products and workmanship with a real focus on customer service. We also work to a ‘First Price, Best Price’ policy and are very transparent in our pricing and believe strongly in a ‘Pressure Off ’ sales process. People generally do not like to be sold to, they just like to buy!
JMP Group Limited Incorporating Vale Glazing & Valuefold Mike 07971 837 804 Justin 07973 636 484 enquiries@valeglazing.co.uk enquiries@valuefold.co.uk www.valeglazing.co.uk www.valuefold.co.uk
CANTON T R U S T E D E L E C T R I CA L R E TA I L E R
Radiocraft Family owned, independent electrical retailer trading in Cardiff and serving customers in South Wales for over 60 years. Specialising in all the latest technology, Radiocraft stock all the best brands in audio visual and home appliances. Free, fast delivery across Cardiff and the Vale and free installation on freestanding washing machines, dishwashing and refrigeration carried out by expert installers. Radiocraft offer 12 months interest free on anything purchased online or in-store. 251 - 253 Cowbridge Road CF11 9TQ 029 2023 1166 www.radiocraft.uk.com Like on Facebook
“Free, fast delivery across Cardiff and the Vale and free installation. Radiocraft offer 12 months interest free credit.”
S E W I N G & A LT E R A T I O N S
Jalo & Stitch With over nine years in business, the owners are proud to offer a warm, friendly and welcoming atmosphere when you visit Jalo & Stitch - Canton’s sewing and alterations experts. The skilled staff have many years of experience and will undertake any type of sewing service including promwear alterations, bridalwear alterations, bridesmaid, soft furnishings and much, much more.
“ Make sure you visit Jalo & Stitch for all of your sewing and alteration needs.” 218a Cowbridge Road East, Cardiff CF5 1GX 029 2023 3520 28
LUXURY INDEPENDENT BOUTIQUE SHOP & TEA ROOM
The Apothecary This unique shop and tea room brings you an eclectic range of the finest teas, selected luxury award-winning organic skincare and cosmetics, gifts and homeware, as well as delicious treats that will make your mouth water and is home to their herbal medicine consultation and making facilities. Due to customer demand the tea rooms are now open, serving delicious, locally baked cakes, including vegan and gluten free options. Delicious! 18 Llandaff Road CF11 9NJ 029 2132 0020 www.theapothecarycardiff.com Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter & Pinterest BEAUTIFUL KITCHENS
Jam Kitchens Do you want a beautiful new kitchen? And a choice of styles, all available from a local Cardiff based showroom? If the answer is Yes, then visit Jam Kitchens, near Victoria Park in Canton. The kettle is always on, and the Jam team can do what they do best - make your kitchen dream become a reality. Jam’s free no obligation kitchen design service will start the ball rolling. They also offer a fitting service if required, using local experienced trade people. Jam is open Monday to Fri day 9am, 5pm and 10am - 4pm on Saturdays. 397 Cowbridge Road East, Cardiff CF5 1JG 029 2151 0021 www.jamkitchens.co.uk
“ Make your kitchen dream become a reality.” 29
Now in their 30th year of business, founder and owner of J & P Autos Phil Jenkins has decided it’s time to pass Cardiff ’s well established, family run, garage over to his son Alex.
J & P AUTOS
Alex, how do you feel about taking over the business? Having qualified 10 years ago at Land Rover Cardiff, I’ve been working within our garage since 2008; however I’ve been working alongside my dad since I was 10 years old. Dad started off with a garage on Sloper Road - he actually picked up the keys to the garage on the day that I was born. He’s built the business up, and we’ve been at our current site on Penarth Road for the last 20 years. The business is in my blood and I’m delighted to be carrying it on alongside our professionally trained team. We must have over 100 years of mechanical experience between us! What services do you provide? We carry out MOTs and diagnostic testing, routine servicing (including brakes, clutch, batteries, exhausts, cam belts, electrical system, steering, suspension, air conditioning and welding) on all types of vehicles. We’ve recently had a state of the art
MOT test bay installed which gives quick and accurate results and means that we’re able to diagnose even the most modern vehicles.
“ I’ve been working alongside my dad since I was 10 years old.”
For customers who want a ‘while you wait’ service we provide refreshments and seating on site along with free WiFi for those that want or need to stay connected. We also provide a breakdown recovery and repair service whereby comprehensive repairs and road test inspections are carried out on all makes and models by our professionally trained engineers. Do you have any plans for the future of J & P Autos Alex? We’re moving with the times, so we’re now on Facebook and will be updating our website to reflect that. Oh and we’re in the process of a modest refurb. Other than that it’s business as usual so if your readers are looking for great service from a friendly family run business they should give us a call. 30
J & P Autos 206A Penarth Road, Cardiff CF11 6NN 029 2039 6758 jandp@jandpautos.net www.jandpautos.net Like on Facebook
A unique destination, in a unique part of Wales.
The Fashion industry is constantly evolving. What may be ‘in’ one week can seem like a fashion disaster the next. When deciding upon a new season’s worth of fashion, you can either risk it, go it alone and hope for the best, or find someone who knows what to look for. The latter is what we did when we visited Jayne Davies at Boutique 53. We had a chat with her to find out about all the latest style trends coming this autumn/winter season.
BOUTIQUE 53
Boutique 53 opened quite recently, how has the response been? We have had an absolutely amazing response from our customers. Everyone who comes into the boutique loves our collections of clothes, bags and jewellery. They all say how fantastic the shop looks and how we are exactly the new addition that this area needed. We have also been lucky to receive such a warm and supportive welcome from our fellow traders on Wellfield Road, all of which have been very friendly and helpful during our first few months. What do you love about the Autumn/ Winter collections and what trends can we look forward to? The colours and fabrics chosen for this season are simply amazing. Especially items seen within our outerwear collections by Junge, Rever Jackets, and Crush fur coats. All of which are so lovely and perfect for the season ahead. The upcoming trends to keep an eye on are definitely brocades, velvets and wild prints; they all featured heavily during the catwalks, as did polka dots and polos. Although really anything goes this year as long as it’s fluffy and in your face. To ease yourself in to this season of fashion you could try a colourful faux-fur stole or gilet.
What are the key autumn/winter pieces that every woman must have in her wardrobe? Dark Jeans are great to wear both dressy or casual, and the darker denim is much more versatile. Our fabulous Marble four way stretch jeans are perfect with some great new colours introduced for autumn. Our Robell and Ficelle trousers will also play an essential part in your autumn/winter wardrobe and we have a huge selection to choose from. A really good winter coat is a must, so spend a little more on one as it’s definitely an investment piece; although you must be careful on what length you go for as a long coat will take height from you, so if you are small then a coat to the knee is perfect. We currently have a fabulous selection of winter coats and capes in stock. A good pair of leather boots are a must and a pair of black shoes with block heels are much more wearable. We will be introducing fabulous new footwear in the boutique very soon! A little box jacket in black or a neutral colour are great for throwing on over a dress or jeans and they will take you absolutely anywhere. A little leather jacket would be the same great investment. 33
The little black dress is a given but don’t be scared of colour - a little red dress will also serve you well. What accessories do you suggest would complete outfits? We stock fabulous jewellery collections and are now the stockists for Gaby’s jewellery in the area. Our bags for day and evening are superb and, for autumn, we have a brand new collection of hats and fascinators And finally has anything special arrived at Boutique 53 recently? Our stunning eveningwear for the party season has now arrived in store - perfect for the upcoming holiday season, and our amazing prom collections will arrive in December.
Boutique 53 53 Wellfield Road, Cardiff CF24 3PA 029 2049 7988 www.boutique53.com Like on Facebook
Specialising in acrylic & gelish nails, waxing treatments, tanning, eye lashes, facials, manicures, pedicures, mini makeovers and much more; Jackie Thomas and Rebecca Williams opened their fabulous beauticians, Missy Beautique, in February 2012. We popped in to the nails, tanning and beauty salon on Newport Road, Rumney, to talk all things bright and beautiful…
MISSY BEAUTIQUE
What are your backgrounds and what led you to open a salon together? Friends for over 7years; we run a friendly, relaxed, professional, salon. I (Becky) have been a beautician for 9 years, and I (Jackie) have been a beautician for 6 years. We both aspired to open our own salon, and 4 years ago we took a chance and went ahead with it. So far it’s been a great success; we both thoroughly enjoy our jobs and love meeting our clients, existing and new.
What beauty treatments do you provide – and what are the most popular? We offer all aspects of beauty and hair extensions. Our beauty treatments include: acrylic nails, gelish nails, pedicures, manicures, facials, massages, waxing, spray tanning, threading, eyelashes, lash lift, 3d brows, high definition brows and tinting. Very popular here at the salon is our Flabelos machine which provides a
“ Also very popular here is our fabulous Flabelos machine which provides a whole body workout and is so easy to use.” 34
whole body workout and is so easy to use. You can see the results immediately and drop one dress size after 12 sessions. We love your photo of Kerry Katona having her nails done with you. How did that come about? We were recommended to Kerry, to provide her with a much needed pamper day after giving birth to her 5th child. We were lucky enough to go over to her home in High Wycombe for this and we enjoyed the day as much as Kerry!
“ Our beauty treatments include acrylic nails, gelish nails, pedicures, manicures, facials, massages and much more!”
Opening Hours Monday: Closed Tuesday: 9am - 5.30pm Wednesday: 9am - 5.30pm Thursday: 9am - 7.30pm Friday: 9am - 5.30pm Saturday: 9am - 4pm Sunday: Closed Missy Beautique 750A Newport Road Cardiff CF3 4FF 029 2079 4446 www.missybeautique.weebly.com Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter 35
DAVI D EDWA R D S
Girard Perregaux £1,900.00
Diamond Piaget £9,000.00
Hublot Chronograph Strap Watch £1,950.00
Ladies Baume and Mercier Geneve £1,100.00
Ladies Omega Seamaster £950.00
Cartier Stainless Steel £1,750.00
Cartier Santos 100 £2,450.00
Cartier Gold and Steel Santos 100 Limited Edition Dial £1,950.00
Tag Heuer Aquaracer £950.00
Ferrari Strap Watch £4,350.00
Panerai Radiomir Rattrapante £7,000.00
Panerai Radiomir Black Seal £4,000.00
Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean £2,900.00
Cartier Gold and Steel Santos 100 Date £2,850.00
IWC Chronograph 18ct Rose Gold £7,500.00
Cartier Tank Americaine 18ct Gold £11,000.00
FINE JEWELLERS
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Sea Dweller £5,400.00
Ladies Rolex Oyster Perpetual £2,750.00
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date £2,950.00
Ladies Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date £2,950.00
Gent’s Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Explorer II £3,500.00
Vintage 14CT Gold Rolex Geneve £5,500.00
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Aftermarket Diamond Bezel £5,450.00
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Just Aftermarket Diamond Dial £3,250.00
Ladies Gold and Steel Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Just Aftermarket Diamond Dot Mother of Pearl Dial £4,150.00
WAT C H S A L E A F U RT H E R 1 0 % O F F ALREADY DISCOUNTED PRICES
Ladies Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Just Aftermarket Diamond dot Mother of Pearl Dial £4,750.00
Simply Perfect 2 3 - 2 5 R O YA L A R C A D E , C A R D I F F C F 1 0 1 A E
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CARDIFF
A magical Christmas awaits at New House Country Hotel If you’re looking for a quieter hotel, away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre, then join the New House Country Hotel for one of their superb celebration parties this Christmas. Choose from one of their infamous Murder Mystery events, or join them for lunch or dinner and a traditional home-cooked Christmas meal served in one of their elegant function suites. Or perhaps you would prefer a quieter day or evening in their Sequoias restaurant. The choice is yours. There’s a whole host of events to choose from including tribute bands (Ritchies Rat Pack Band and Abba Tribute Band), Disco Party Nights, Jazz Afternoon Tea, Magical Starlit Party Night, Christmas Carols and Christmas Supper and Casino Royale Bond Night. Then, on Sunday 20th December, you and your family can enjoy a Disco Sunday Lunch with a special gift from Santa. Friday 25th December is their Christmas Day Lunch, and on 31st December is their gorgeous Gala Ball. Prices range from £19.95 ( Jazz Afternoon Tea) to £145 (Gala Ball). For more details of what menus are available at each event, please take a look at the website www.newhousehotel.com
If you’re booking a table of 12 or more, then the organiser goes free (on selected dates only). Don’t fancy getting a taxi home? Carry on your evening with a night cap next to a roaring fire and then make your way to one of their luxuriously decorated bedrooms. Take a look at their website for some amazing Christmas accommodation offers.
“ Join them for lunch or dinner for a traditional home-cooked Christmas meal served in one of their elegant function suites.”
YOUR CIT Y LIFE
Where do you love? We’d love to hear about your favourite places in and around Cardiff. We’d love to see your photographs. It doesn’t matter whether you’re a professional, if we like them, we may even feature them in City Life. Please share with us, email to lewis@goodlifepublishing.co.uk 41
New House Country Hotel Thornhill, Cardiff CF14 9UA 029 2062 9040 events@newhousehotel.com www.newhousehotel.com
Sometimes it’s nice to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and tear yourselves away from the computer screen and mobile phones. Relaxation and recuperation is good for the soul. City Life took time out and paid a visit to The Vineyard, Berkshire, for one of its ‘Judgement of Paris’ dinners. As the name suggests, a stay at The Vineyard is all about the food and, more especially, the wines. Let us tell you more...
R AISE A GLASS Location, location… This luxurious five star hotel and spa is an ideal place for a relaxing spa day or break and considered one of the best luxury spa hotels in Berkshire.
The history… The Vineyard is all about the food and the wine, and The Judgement of Paris (or the Paris Wine Tasting of May 24 1976) is seen as one of the most pivotal moments in wine history. A blind wine tasting of French and Californian wines, nearly forty years ago, that forever changed the future of winemaking when unknown Californian wines were chosen over some of France’s finest by some of France’s top wine aficionados.
“Each room is named after an iconic wine from around the world.”
Organised by British wine merchant Steven Spurrier, excellent Californian Chardonnays and Cabernet Sauvignons were tasted alongside white Burgundies and Bordeaux reds. For Californian winemakers - and for winemakers around the world - the event transformed the industry.
Owner, Sir Peter Michael, was so inspired by the event that it set him on a journey to California in search of a suitable vineyard location, which he found in 1982, starting the Peter Michael Winery in Knights Valley, Sonoma. In 1998 he opened the five star Vineyard hotel in Berkshire, now established as the UK’s leading wine hotel. Here, amongst some 30,000 bins in the Vineyard’s striking glass wine cellar, over 800 Californian wines on the list include a unique collection from Peter Michael’s own vineyard. 42
The accommodation… Each room is named after an iconic wine from around the world, while their top six suites celebrate Peter Michael wines; La Carrière, Mon Plaisir, Les Pavots, Point Rouge, Belle Cote and L’Après Midi. The split-level atrium suites are luxuriously furnished with contemporary modern fabrics. All are individually designed with generously proportioned Italian marble bathrooms and each has a flat screen television and either a balcony or terrace. Their deluxe suites are boldly elegant in design, with a spacious sitting room and bathroom. Then there’s La Carrière, the first of their grand suites. Like its illustrious namesake, elegant, luxurious and smooth. An inviting four-poster bed, spacious seating area with large flat-screen TV and a writing desk are complemented with specially woven fabrics, while the individually
crafted Italian marble bathroom boasts a freestanding bath, large separate shower, slippers, soft robes and luxurious toiletries. The luxury suites are extremely spacious and furnished in traditional country house style with a king-size bed, large separate lounge and marble bathroom. Special touches included a bottle of champagne and cake on our arrival and a note to tell us about the weather the next day. What about the food? The Vineyard is devoted to gastronomy. Guests may recreate their very own blind tasting with wines matched to each of seven delicious courses prepared by French chef Daniel Galmiche. Traditionally, a French and Californian glass are served with each course and the diner decides which they prefer.
The sommeliers can also suggest alternative old and new world wines for diners to compare and ultimately judge. Each Judgement of Paris dinner also includes two blind taste tests to decide where the wine originates from; France or California.
“ The luxury suites are extremely spacious.” And when you’re not eating and drinking? The Vineyard hotel’s extensive cellar holding 30,000 bottles and a guided tour is a must. The Spa (which was rated a ‘5 Bubbles Luxury’ spa by the Good Spa Guide) is also a must do as it offers luxurious treatments which include The Shimmering Gold Face and Body Treatment, The Vineyard Hot Stone Ritual or the Balinese Journey to name but a few. 43
To sum up … The Judgement of Paris seven course menu is priced £184pp including twelve tasting wines. Accommodation and breakfast is priced from £247 based on two guests. The Vineyard is sheer heaven for foodies and wine buffs or those just wanting a relaxing weekend break.
The Vineyard Stockcross, Newbury Berkshire RG20 8JU 01635 897589 www.the-vineyard.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter
Mulberrys Restaurant has been a popular local haunt in Llandaff for over ten years. When the restaurant changed hands in July 2014, new owner Philippa Hopkins opted to re-brand and change the style of menu. Following Philippa’s first year anniversary we were eager to pop along and take a peek for ourselves…
MULBERRYS R ESTAURANT
We love the new look, tell us a bit about your re-branding? Thank you. I would describe our look as classy yet quirky. We dropped the “St” (Street) off our name, got rid of the New York based theme and went for an elegant, fresh and natural look. By using natural textures and colours it reflects the quality of the produce we use as well as making the most of the space we have. Llandaff ’s wonderful art gallery, Off the Wall, kindly lends us artwork from local and British artists to display on a regular basis. I also had help from a talented local graphics student in the design of our new logo. We now go by simply ‘Mulberrys Restaurant’. The menu at that time was tapas orientated, and we kept that going for a while until we realised that tastes and trends were changing in the area, so we decided to change the style of menu too. We are aiming for a much more informal style of dining but have kept our quality and standard high. Llandaff is a fantastic area for dining out and we wanted to reflect that in our rebrand.
What food do you serve, and what are your opening hours? Think a contemporary bistro style of menu; including steak, burgers and fish, as well as a few classic home cooked a la carte dishes and, of course, some fresh veggie dishes! Our traditional fish and chips is massively popular, and our new burger menu is proving very successful. Everything is made fresh to order and we regularly update our menu every few weeks to include produce that is currently in season. We try to source everything locally where possible and ensure the fish we serve comes from sustainable sources. We are open Tuesday to Saturday for lunch 12 till 2, and for dinner 6.30 til late. We now also open for lunch on the last Sunday of every month which, so far, is proving very popular, serving traditional roasts as well as steak and fish dishes.
“Our traditional fish and chips is massively popular.” 44
Can Mulberrys be booked for private functions? We certainly can, and for most kinds of events. We seat up to 50 which makes for an intimate setting, but allows for a good atmosphere! We currently work with local businesses, societies, charities and schools hosting lunches, functions and dinners. For example, we host regular Twilight Suppers for the popular Cardiff History & Hauntings Llandaff Ghost Walk, as well as fundraising lunches for our local Llandaff civic society. We are also able to cater for private functions, anything from birthdays to baby showers. We offer a traditional ‘sit down’ dining but can also offer buffet style if desired.
“We are aiming for a much more informal style of dining but have kept our quality and standard high.”
Any plans for the future? Yes, lots - including live music evenings, themed events and, hopefully, a move into outside catering in the very near future! It’s been tough for businesses the last few years, especially the small independents, so we believe it’s important to evolve and keep your ideas fresh. We’ve been well supported by our regular diners but we’re always trying to offer something new. So far, and with a great team in place and the support of our customers, we seem to have done that - long may it continue!
Mulberrys Restaurant, 48 High St, Llandaff Cardiff CF5 2DZ 029 2056 4646 Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter
Four mates yearned for their own quality local with a great atmosphere, excellent service and skilfully prepared food - oh and live music. That was the vision for Richard James and his business partners a couple of years ago when they took control of their ‘close to closure’ local...
HOLDING COURT The Radyr Court has managed to survive and buck the trend of pub closures which were running at 20 plus per week in 2012. Richard and his team have restored this 500 year old building into something very special. We dropped in for a chat following their very successful launch weekend.
garden under an unassuming manhole cover. History has revealed that it was called Y Pistyll Goleu, the bright water spout, and was thought to have healing powers. This water supply would have been a key reason the Manor House was built here for the Matthew family in 1469. We are having the water tested for purity to, hopefully, showcase the well.
Congratulations on the launch Richard, it’s looking great here. What changes have been made to the old style Radyr Court pub? Thank you. A complete change is the simplest way to answer. We’ve undergone a major renovation under the guidance of Tim Rice Design to bring the beautiful features of this grand old building into a very special setting. We’ve gone for an exciting mix of 500 year old stone walls with contemporary features like black velvet booth seating. We’re delighted with it and, more importantly, so are our new and existing customers.
What has been your biggest challenge with the refurb? As well as the amount of finance involved in this project, due to the size and dilapidated state of the building, the utilisation of spaces to create special atmospheres have been critical to the overall finish.
During the renovations, an ancient underground stream with a 25ft deep stone well was discovered in the
Are you family friendly? Absolutely! We want to be a hub for our community, a place where people can spend quality time in a safe, happy and vibrant setting and enjoy themselves. The Court is a large venue that can cater for all sorts of gatherings, such as parties, business meetings, society groups, or family and friends enjoying 46
the great food, service and atmosphere. We’d like to think of ourselves as ‘everybody friendly’.
What food do you serve here and in your restaurant? From breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner, our ethos is to use quality ingredients and our ‘real’ chefs to create a range of mouth-watering dishes which we will refresh regularly. Sunday brunches and traditional roast lunches are proving extremely popular. Our gourmet ‘Supreme’ Court Burger made of pure quality beef is a favourite. Sea Bass has flown off the specials menu. Fresh, line-caught by our partner Asa and his son Cyan from their fishing boat off Tenby - they are now busy sourcing beautiful fresh fish to supply our chefs, which is very exciting. Do you have any plans for the future? Yes, the final stage will be upstairs where we’ll have a fine dining restaurant in a beautiful setting.
Our capital city Cardiff doesn’t have a Michelin Star restaurant which I think is a shame. Anyway, I’m a dreamer which can be dangerous and my partners will freak when they read this (and apply the brakes on my thinking), but watch this space. Downstairs, our live music nights have gone down so well that we are forming an events team to schedule things like pub quizzes, charity fund raisers, Christmas parties, New Year Gala Ball, Salsa dancing - the list goes on, and we want people to get involved, join us and tell us what else they want and we will do what we can to make it happen.
And last but not least, what will you do with your spare time now that the pub is open? I’m here a lot anyway. The atmosphere’s great and I love meeting lots of new interesting customers as well as our fantastic regulars. I am especially looking forward to spending more time with my amazing daughter Poppy and returning to an exercise program, which has lapsed over the last year with a nasty impact upon my waistline.
“The Court is a large venue that can cater for all sorts of gatherings.”
The Radyr Court Bar and Grill Rachel Close, Danescourt Cardiff CF5 2SH radyrcourt@hotmail.co.uk 029 2056 7961 Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter
The Gutsy Goose is delighted to announce the arrival of The Gutsy Deli. Always ones for a bit of good news (especially concerning food), we popped in to chat with owner Darren about the addition to his popular independent café bar/restaurant.
T WICE AS GUTSY
Hi Darren, we love the look of your new addition. What made you decide to expand the business? Thank you. The Deli has been a lifetime ambition of mine and I’m thrilled to finally be able to realise my dream. Many of our customers were asking where they could buy local produce and I saw the natural symbiotic relationship between our café bar and a deli. There’s definitely a gap in the market for quality products, sourced from local independents that you won’t necessarily find on other stores shelves, or indeed in supermarkets.
We love the ambience of the Gutsy Goose - relaxed, informal, and evolving throughout the day. Yes, the mood and customers certainly change through the day. The café bar is so popular which we put down to our great food and service. Our menu is modern, honest, British food made with fresh ingredients, flair and style. Our all day dining experience starts with high class breakfasts including our much loved Full Welsh and Eggs Benedict - then moves on to lunches (via morning coffees and cake of course - our homemade brownies are to die for); gin and tonic battered fish and chips, pie of the day, burgers (including our much praised lamb kofta burger), all of which are homemade. We also have an excellent list of daily specials so remember to look out for those on our blackboards. 48
A new addition to our daytime menu will be afternoon teas, which we’re looking forward to as much as our customers. Our chef has a long history in top end establishments but, as we’re an independent and not a chain, he works with complete freedom on our menus and his passion shows in our food. The new deli serves food to go; delicious freshly-made sandwiches, mouth-watering cakes, gourmet coffee, homemade smoothies and milkshakes all to sit in or take away. We know you have your hands full with this new baby Darren, but any further plans for the future? This is a new chapter in my life and I love it. If all goes to plan I hope to open more café bars and delis in the future watch this space!
The Gutsy Goose 145 Crwys Road Cardiff CF24 4NH 029 2022 8523 www.thegutsygoose.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter Reservations can be taken Tuesday - Saturday: 9am - 9.30pm Sunday: 9am - 4pm
At Moksh, great pride is taken in working with the finest quality Welsh produce and freshest authentic spices. Their ingredients are fresh, seasonal and locally sourced, allowing their tasty dishes to draw on the ancient Indian Ayurvedic system. Meaning ‘life knowledge’, the 5,000 year old system of natural healing and cleansing explores how to eat for optimum balance.
MOKSH We caught up with Chef Stephen Gomes, whose signature style has gained him a place among the most respected chefs in the UK. Can you tell us a bit about your background and what has led you to where you are today? Originally born in Mumbai, I moved to Cardiff fifteen years ago. I am a fourth generation chef, following in the footsteps of my father, grandfather and great-grandfather. After training and working within a variety of five star hotels across Asia, and studying molecular gastronomy at Westminster College, I knew I always wanted to utilise my heritage, experience and travels to create unique and modern Indian fusion cuisine with elements of molecular cooking. This, subsequently, led to the opening of Moksh in 2007.
Can you explain the concept behind Moksh? The dishes that appear on the menu seem a little different from other Indian restaurants. It’s all about having fun with food. We look to create an overall dining experience that our customers will not easily forget - something a little different from anything they may have experienced before. Tastes may not change year to year, but we can enhance the dining experience by making food beautiful and theatrical, and make dining an ‘experience’. Our dishes tend to venture away from those that are usually found in traditional Indian restaurants as well from starters including Vegetable Tapas from the Lab (Delhi Chaat with coriander mint air, yoghurt blast, Bombay mix edible plastic and Dahi Bhalla ice cream with tamarind spherification) to our speciality main courses including Lava Chicken 180°C (a flavoursome chicken dish served in a saffron and home-style cooked sauce, with a sizzling 180°C lava stone at its centre!). I’m widely known in the Industry as one of the first chefs to successfully introduce natural food science into Indian cuisine. I enjoy playing with the senses - a lot of research and passion goes into the dishes at Moksh. 50
What is the most requested dish at Moksh? The most requested dishes at Moksh are two of our starters: Treasures of the Sea - soft shelled crab on puffed rice, prawn wasabi cocktail with lemon air, salmon koliwada with yoghurt chilli spherification and pan fired scallops with lemon chilli zest powder. Einstein in India - Shami kebabs stuffed with mint jelly, sous vide Lucknowi lamb chops with home-made candy floss, Hyderabadi mince cupcake with beetroot chilli foam and lamb seekh kebab with cold whisky smoke. Served on a bed of mixed caviars. I mustn’t forget about the seasonal Tasting Menu too. Five innovative courses that balance flavours and textures, while remaining authentic to Indian cuisine. We understand that you’ve won many awards for your cuisine, which of these are you the most proud of? The recent Ethnic Chef Award was particularly close to my heart. I was very honoured to have received the award, as the Craft Guild of Chefs is a prestigious association within the UK. The awards themselves are also recognised as ‘The Chef Oscars’ within the Industry as well. Of course, the AA Rosette in 2015 - I think we were all still a little stunned (in a good way!) for at least a week after.
“We are very proud to have been awarded an AA Rosette for Culinary Excellence in 2015.”
What awards has the restaurant recently received? We are very proud to have been awarded an AA Rosette for Culinary Excellence in 2015 - the first Indian restaurant in Wales to receive one. We have also recently been named Best Indian Restaurant in Wales at the inaugural Food Awards Wales in 2015. You represented Wales in The Great British Menu this year on BBC2; tell us a little about your experience? Where do I start? It certainly was an experience! With the theme this year being to create a menu to honour the standards and celebrate the Centenary of the Women’s Institute, it was always going to be an interesting brief to meet! It was a fun programme to take part in though, and I hope my creative flair and imagination came through. I was honoured to represent Wales alongside Phil and Adam, but the process was hard and, even as a chef, where long hours are the norm, we were certainly pushed to our limts.
“Our dishes tend to venture away from those that are usually found in traditional Indian . restaurants.”
We hear that you’ve recently opened a cookery school in Cardiff - please tell us about that. Yes, SG|The Food Studio opened in August. Situated five minutes from Moksh, we are offering a range of cookery classes, where people will actually be able to experience cooking inside a commercial kitchen as opposed to a restaurant kitchen. The classes will be informative but, most of all, fun and hands on. Perfect for enthusiastic cooks who have a passion for Indian cooking, and enjoy learning new skills in a modern and relaxed environment. So will the SG|The Food Studio only be offering cookery classes? No, the studio will also form a base for food demonstrations and corporate and event catering. It will also be a much needed developmental kitchen for the ever-evolving menus at Moksh. What are your plans for the future? It is all go as ever. I have a number of overseas projects that are currently ongoing, and I hope to expand and open a restaurant in London too. There is always something new and exciting going on in Moksh too, and I’ll be working on the latest tasting menus in the next few weeks, so please watch this space! 51
More information on dates and times for the cookery classes is available by contacting enquiries@sgfoodstudio.co.uk or by visiting www.moksh.co.uk Moksh Ocean Building, Bute Crescent Cardiff CF10 5AN 029 2049 8120 enquiries@moksh.co.uk www.moksh.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter
Following the launch of The Bay Lounge earlier this year, the successful lounge bar was joined by The Caribbean Way in August - and the venue has gone from strength to strength…
A TASTE OF THE CARIBBEAN
Please tell us a bit about the collaboration between The Bay Lounge and The Caribbean Way... We felt that offering Caribbean cuisine at The Bay Lounge would capture the essence of Cardiff Bay (also known as Tiger Bay) which was formerly a busy shipping port and large multi-cultural community during the turn of the century, with many Caribbean settlers (amongst other nationalities) docking in and working from the ‘Tiger Bay’ Docks. So we teamed up with The Caribbean Way, an extremely popular authentic Caribbean cuisine catering service; they were previously at The Depot in Cardiff and cater for private functions and events. We feel that Cardiff doesn’t offer many Caribbean food options so we are delighted to host this type of food at our bar. The choice is proving very popular.
“With our cosy booths and seating plan, the bar offers comfortable surroundings for diners.”
What type of food do your diners enjoy here? We serve English breakfasts, including Halal products, as well as classic Caribbean breakfasts which consist of eggs, ackee and saltfish, fried plantain, and seasoned beans - and can be altered to the diner’s specification. Our lunchtime/dinner menu options include Jamaican Jerk Chicken wraps and BBQ chicken pasta as well as traditional Caribbean dishes of brown stewed chicken, curried mutton, peppered stewed steak, ackee and saltfish - all served with ‘rice & peas’. Our sides consist of traditional Jamaican fried dumplings, coleslaw and we make fresh Jamaican fruit punches and homemade banana cakes. Our cocktail menu incorporates ‘The Bay’ theme with old, classic and new combinations including: The Shirley Bassey, Bay-By Doll, Tiger Bay Tequilla, and Bay Island Iced Tea to name just a few. If you love cocktails we think you’ll like ours. 52
All of our food options are available to eat in, or order and take away, as we find people like to order one dish to dine in and then like to take an additional choice of dish home, so we added the take out option to our services recently. We serve food until 8pm, with some diners then choosing to stay in the bar for the evening; catching up with friends and listening to our chilled music, or staying for our live singers or resident DJ who plays on weekends from 9pm. What are your opening hours? We serve food from 9am - 8pm Monday to Friday and we’re open for lunch on Sundays from 12pm - 5pm. In The Bay Lounge, drinks are available from 12 noon and we’re open until 12am on week nights, and stay open until 2am on Friday and Saturdays and close at 12am on Sundays. Our DJ plays from 9pm on Fridays and Saturdays and we have live entertainment from 7pm on specified Sundays.
Do you hire your venue for private events? How many people can it hold and what type of events are held? Yes, we offer complimentary venue hire for private functions and the party host is given a reserved booth or table area along with a complimentary bottle of Prosecco or Champagne. Our DJ plays for parties on request and we also cover this charge. The party host can opt for ‘The Caribbean Way’ to cater for the party or we allow them to use our pristine kitchen facilities if they choose to provide their own food for their event. We hear you’re planning a Beaujolais Day event... Yes, on the 19th November we’re offering a 3 course authentic Caribbean meal prepared by the Caribbean Way, with a complimentary glass of Beaujolais wine for £25 per head and we’ve booked Helen Fulthorpe; the Cardiff singer who so impressed the X Factor judges. Helen will be singing a Soulful Session of new and old songs from 5pm on that day which will include her new single Ashes to Ashes which is from her new EP out this winter.
And what are your plans for the festive season? As we speak, our Christmas Menus are currently being finalised. We’ll be offering festive specials to diners and party goers who want to book tables or hire the venue to celebrate and socialise in a modern and relaxed atmosphere. So, with our cosy booths and seating plan, the bar offers comfortable surroundings for both diners and groups of people socialising, and our downstairs basement lounge/club area has a dance floor and seating area for clients who want to stay later and party the night away!
The Bay Lounge 106, Bute Street Cardiff CF10 5AD 029 2132 1089 Like on Facebook, follow and Twitter 53
So this year has all been about the 70s look and, if the autumn/winter magazines are to be believed, then the theme is here to stay. It was back in 1971 that Crumbs, in Cardiff ’s popular Morgan Arcade, made its debut. Owner Paul claims it was the first vegetarian/vegan restaurant in Cardiff and is still ‘top of the veggie pops’ in 2015.
VEGTASTIC CRUMBS
So it’s with flared jeans and faux fur trimmed coat that I call in to try one of their now infamous breakfasts in honour of their 45th anniversary. The Crumbs breakfast is served up until 11.30am, giving customers plenty of time to enjoy a healthy and wholesome fuel stop before hitting the shops or work. But what to choose? It all looks so good. I could go for a cereal bowl of either brans or mueslis (gluten free option available) served with fresh fruit and yoghurt, but I fancy something a bit more substantial so, I could either choose the vegan porridge with mixed fruit, eggs Florentine, scrambled eggs on toast with spinach, or the homemade Americanstyle hash browns topped with fried eggs. There’s a fab selection of teas, coffees, soft drinks and a good selection of freshly squeezed carrot, apple and orange juices to choose from but it was the orange juice served in a cute jam jar that won the day.
Crumbs has always been a firm favourite for lunch due to its plentiful, super healthy salad bowls, Mediterranean falafels, sweet potato pakoras, seeds and olives, homemade quiches, lasagnes and pies. Not forgetting the gluten free and vegan soups, vegetarian curry and chilli. For those just wanting a coffee there’s a to-die-for selection of vegan, gluten free and organic cakes to tempt should your resolve weaken. After the purses have been sufficiently depleted it’s back to Crumbs for an afternoon tea of home-made scones with clotted cream and jam and a cup of tea - traditional or speciality.
The restaurant is bigger than it looks from outside too. So if it looks busy inside, take the stairs at the rear to the first floor where you’ll find even more seating space which has a slightly different vibe to downstairs. Don’t just take my word for how good Crumbs is. A quick visit to TripAdvisor will reassure you that this shrine to veggie is a must visit. So perhaps I’ll see you at Crumbs on your next shopping trip to Cardiff. Fab floppy hat optional. Vegtastic!
Why does the food taste so good at Crumbs? The produce is fresh and locally sourced, so all of the food is full of flavour and goodness. Also no meat is stored on the premises which, for vegetarians or vegans, is paramount.
“ Crumbs has always been a firm favourite for lunch... Mediterranean falafels, sweet potato pakoras, seeds and olives, homemade quiches, lasagnes and pies.” 54
TESTIMONIALS
What you like and love about Crumbs... “Amazing for vegans!” My sister and I went to Crumbs for lunch after hearing good things about it. We are both vegans and were really impressed with the range of vegan options. We had the spiced chickpea and spinach pie with salad and hummus - it was amazing! There was also a large selection of vegan cakes, brownies and shortbreads. We had one piece of chocolate cake and one piece of carrot cake - both were delicious. The staff were also very friendly and welcoming. I’ll definitely be going back!
“Great for veggies, vegans and other humans too!” Had a lovely breakfast here yesterday followed by the best vegan cake I’ve ever had - Morello cherry and vanilla! Breakfast section is small but great quality. Lunch looked lovely with vegan and gluten free falafels and a very tasty looking chickpea pie also vegan and GF - also great selection of salads. Make sure you leave room for cake though all vegan and lots of choice!
“Vegetarian hideaway” What a lovely restaurant/café, I’m not a vegetarian, but I was treated to some of the freshest and delicious vegetarian food and very reasonably priced. I had a vegetable curry, was one of the best I’ve tasted. As crumbs kitchen is tucked away down Morgan’s arcade, it can be overlooked, but please make the effort to seek it out, you won’t be disappointed.
Crumbs 33 Morgan Arcade, Cardiff CF10 1AF 029 2039 5007 www.crumbskitchencardiff.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter
Skinade, the revolutionary skin supplement drink, is fast becoming a ‘must have’ product for celebrities because of its great results on skin and hair after 30 days. We chatted to salon owner Sharon Brading who stocks the product to find out more.
A BEAUTY FAVOURITE Please tell us about yourself... My name is Sharon Brading, I’m a hairdresser. My salon is called The Room which is based at Virgin Active Health Club, Cwmbran. How did you hear about Skinade? I first stumbled across Skinade after reading a magazine article and decided to research a little more. I felt slightly dubious about this “new product” and wanted to satisfy myself that it was all it claimed to be. What made you want to stock the product? It really is an innovative product, which is different, and sets itself apart from other health and beauty products. It’s a skin supplement drink, offering something entirely unique to users and is refreshingly new to the health and beauty industry.
How many of your clients are using Skinade? Currently thirty or so. I was surprised at the high number of my clients who wished to try it but, having used it myself and enjoying very good results, I was very happy to recommend it. What changes have they noticed using the product? Clients have noticed reduced appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, energy levels way up, as well as the skin looking radiant, more hydrated and fabulous glowing skin! I’ve received great feedback from clients who have been struggling with psoriasis, saying that it has improved or disappeared and less visible.
“ I have seen impressive results in the textures of their skin, together with flawlessness and radiance.”
What changes have you noticed in your clients who are using Skinade? I have seen impressive results in the textures of their skin, together with flawlessness and radiance. I have also noticed improvement with clients’ hair including strength, restored moisture and great sheen.
Do you use it yourself and, if so, what changes have you noticed? Yes I do use Skinade myself and am loving the smooth, glowing texture of my skin. It is truly an amazing product and I’m excited to share with friends and clients. Would you recommend the product to others? Yes, definitely. Prepare to be amazed by Skinade. I was!
If you are a beauty or hair salon and would like to stock Skinade, then please contact 08451 300 205 info@skinade.com www.skinade.com Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter 56
HAIR & BEAUT Y LOUNGE
Bro Dans Listening to the clients is the number one priority of owners Louise McGee and Chelsey Farley, thats why Bro Dans are confident in their ability to provide everyone with the perfect treatment for them. With a massive range of services including; beauty therapy by Donna Willis, hair cuts, hair colouring, facials, waxing, nail extensions, polishes, manicures, an in house semipermanent make up artist and much more. So come and join the Bro Dans family today. To celebrate our 1 year anniversary we are offering 20% off all hair and beauty treatments through October. Simply quote ‘City Life’. T’s & C’s Apply.
53 The Philog, Whitchurch CF14 1DZ 029 2069 4303 Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter
“Unable to visit them? Then there is no need to worry as with the fantastic invention of the ‘Vanicure’ your favourite beauty salon can come to you.” H O M E O F T H E ‘ VA N I C U R E ’
Nail Divas The Autumn months are finally upon us and what better way to celebrate the beautiful bronzing of the surrounding nature than by making sure your nails match. Simply pop down to their base of beautification in Whitchurch and allow Sian and her team to treat your fingers like never before. Unable to visit them? Then there is no need to worry as with the fantastic invention of the ‘Vanicure’ your favourite beauty salon can come to you.
Having converted a 3.5 ton Ford Transit into a pink powerhouse of mobile nail maintenance Sian and the team have released their creation into the wilderness of South Wales to resounding cheers from those it visits. The van specialises in 15 minute gel manicures and is available for festivals, fayres, corporate and private clients, events, parties, weddings and shows. So no matter where you are you can get a top quality nail treatment. 3 Bishops Road, Whitchurch CF14 1LT 029 2061 7458 03000 30 30 14 www.naildivas.co.uk www.vanicures.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter 57
Positioned discreetly in a beautifully renovated coach house on Whitchurch Common in Cardiff, the friendly and professional team at Beauty Advance Laser Clinic offers the very latest in advanced laser treatments as well as cosmetic and aesthetic treatments.
BEAUTY A DVANCE
ADVANCED LASER & AESTHETICS TREATMENTS
Hi Daniela, it’s looking beautiful in here as always. Have you made any changes to your clinic since we last spoke? Yes, lots of changes. We’re so excited to now be working with doctors and surgeons and are now offering the New Silhouette Lift. For those not familiar with this new technology, it offers a double lifting and regenerating effect, through the action of re-absorbable sutures with bidirectional cones.
We also have the new NIR which tightens and lift the skin and a new Dye VL for pigmented lesions and blood vessels. These lasers are all new to Wales – they’re the celebrities’ treatment of choice and we’re delighted that they’re here in our Cardiff clinic. We truly believe that even though we are a relatively small, intimate, family run clinic, we are pioneers when it comes to bringing new, advanced treatments to our clients.
It is made of polylactic and glycolic acids. These components are totally reabsorbable in 18-24 months. It’s so new in fact, that City Life readers are the first to hear of it. And of course our new hair removal system is proving so popular and we’re seeing amazing results.
Are all skin types suitable for laser treatment? I’m glad you asked that question. Absolutely, yes our new Soprano Ice laser can produce different light to get amazing results whatever your skin type; including Black Caribbean/ Asian skin – all can be treated safely.
That sounds exciting, tell us more. It’s a brand new treatment called “Soprano Ice” which is a Permanent Hair Removal System that does not hurt at all; yes, it’s pain-free and reduces all hair colour on all skin colour – even tanned skins.
We’ve heard on the grapevine that you’ve also introduced the eDS dermaroller, tell us more. Yes, another coup for Beauty Advance. The eDS is a skin rejuvenation medical skin-needling device, best for lines, wrinkles and scarring. 58
It’s the next level from the multi-gold, award-winning ‘Genuine Dermaroller’, making it even more intensive – even more controllable – even more comfortable. It helps make your skin smoother, brighter, younger and healthier looking. We’re seeing amazing results when used on sun damaged and ageing skin, facial and décolletage lines and wrinkles and stretch marks. What is your most requested treatment? And why do you think this is? The most requested treatment is our New permanent laser hair removal as it’s the best on the market and the only one in Wales. The previous type of laser was painful, couldn’t treat certain types of skin, and took a long time for treatments (especially IPL which we don’t recommend for hair removal). Now we’re delighted with our brand new Soprano Ice, it’s all that the others are not. A lot of our clients were fed up of shaving, waxing and tweezing etc. so this treatment is an absolute godsend.
eDS - Best for lines, wrinkles and scarring
However, we must mention that tattoo removal is coming up a very close second. Can your clients purchase the products that you use in your salon? Yes all the products used are available to purchase here, even the needling products can be bought for home use. What beauty tips can you give our readers? The best beauty tip I can give is to use sunscreen; SPF30-50 every single day of the year. It will protect your skin in daylight, which is more ageing, and in all weathers - come sun or rain you can enjoy the great outdoors. We have a new product for sale; a moisturising / protecting/colour foundation, ideal for masking uneven areas of skin-tone and blemishes, it really does do what it promises. Also, I’m a big fan of drinking lemon water, that’ll do your skin a lot of favours.
“We have the new NIR which tightens and lift the skin.”
Beauty Advance Laser Clinic The Coach House, Whitchurch Common Cardiff CF14 1DW 02920 529 552 www.beautyadvance.com Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter
With their ‘home from home’ vibe - including comfortable waiting areas, relaxing styling chairs & a variety of refreshments, we didn’t wait to be asked twice to pop in and chat with new Hair Candy salon owners Suzanne & Jess…
I WANT CANDY
So ladies, having notched up an impressive 40 years hairdressing experience between you (sounds clichéd, but you really don’t look old enough!) – what inspired you to open up your own salon? We both worked together for a large international hair & beauty company, based at the Queens Arcade, Cardiff branch. With our skills and management experience we were sure we could be making a success of our own salon. We wanted to implement our own beliefs, while still keeping it professional, more accessible & approachable. We also wanted to get away from the stigma of working for a large chain of salons. We’ve effected a straightforward pricing structure with no hidden costs or complicated stylist ‘ranking’. Our services are affordable with the very best service & care in the warm, friendly environment we’ve created.
And what made you choose City road? It’s perfect; not too far from the city centre so our current clients could find us and there’s plenty of free short term parking plus a carpark for clients that are with us for longer services. Also we’re on a major bus route. The area is up & coming with lots of redevelopments and everyone’s friendly, the neighbours in the surrounding businesses are lovely.
What product range do you use here at your salon, and are they available to purchase? Good, professional hair products don’t have to cost the earth. We trialled the ‘IQ Intelligent’ range & we’ve discovered the products are good quality, they do exactly what they say on the label & they don’t cost a huge amount. It’s great to be able to offer affordable products - for example shampoos are £5.80 for a 300ml bottle & the most expensive item is a styling product for £7.80. The in-salon colour range we’ve opted for is NXT - next generation, it’s amazing. It gives excellent coverage & shine and the range of colours is huge. Our clients are as delighted with the results that we are. We’re also pleased to offer a colour removal service from NXT, for clients that would like a dramatic colour change on very dark coloured hair.
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It’s a new, gentle remover with excellent condition & shine - no more harsh bleach baths thank goodness. We retail IQ Intelligent products & we also sell Affinage styling range, which is excellent. We’re always on the lookout for help; do you have any haircare tips that you can share with us? Yes, we advise that regular trims are the key to healthy hair; and also if you’re going to use any sort of heat, a heat protector product is essential.
Check Hair Candy’s Facebook page for special offers that change every month – oh and also, for all you celebs out there - the salon offers a private, screened area for clients who require a spot of privacy.
“Our services are affordable with the very best service and care in the warm, friendly environment we’ve created.”
And last but not least, do you have any plans for the future? Yes, lots. We’ll be expanding our hair team in the near future & we’ll be training up young apprentices, developing them to stylist level. We’ll be branching out to offer hair extensions & keratin blowdrys and then the next stage will be expanding into beauty services.
Hair Candy 68 City Road, Cardiff CF24 3DD 029 2132 0021 www.haircandycardiff.weebly.com Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter & Pinterest 61
For whatever reason you want to look your best (wedding, birthday, holiday, Christmas, or a youthful freshen up so you look great ‘for your age’) it’s actually more achievable, and cost effective, than you’d think. We chat with Sandeep Rupra of Rupra Cosmetic Smiles & Facial Aesthetics…
SMILES BETTER Tell us a little about your background Sandeep. I graduated as a dentist in 2007 and initially practised as a Senior House Officer in Oral Surgery, Restorative Dentistry and Dental Public Health in the Dental Hospital at University Hospital Wales and Prince Charles Hospital in Merthyr. Through my time at the hospitals, and previous vocational training, I discovered my passion for facial aesthetics. I joined Hickman House in 2010 where I practice dentistry and where, earlier this year, I launched Rupra Cosmetic Smiles & Facial Aesthetics.
And what services do you provide for your patients? All aspects of facial rejuvenation including anti-wrinkle and anti-ageing treatments, dermal fillers, smile makeovers using the Quick Straight Teeth system, and dental implants using the Nobel Biocare system.
QST has been developed to work specifically on the front six or eight teeth in order to correct minor to moderate issues. Treatment prices can be more affordable than for similar types of braces, and straightening times range from 4 - 24 weeks depending on the problems to be corrected.
We like the sound of Quick Straight Teeth. Can you tell us some more about that please? More people of all ages are now benefitting from treatment to enhance the appearance of their teeth. Quick Straight Teeth (QST) is a discreet braces system made from transparent materials.
What advice can you give our readers who would like to undergo facial aesthetic treatments? I would definitely advise that they do their research and choose a qualified, regulated practitioner. In the UK facial treatments can be carried out by ‘consultants’ who have few, or no, medical qualifications.
“ I provide anti-wrinkle and anti-ageing treatments, dermal fillers, smile makeovers using the Quick Straight Teeth system, and dental implants.” 62
I’m accredited by Oris Medical in my Botox and filler training; Oris guarantees that all treatments are administered by fully qualified,
registered aesthetic doctors, and I’m also regulated by the General Dental Council and a registered provider of the Quicker Straighter Teeth system. Also, readers should visit the clinic to ensure their treatments are administered in a clean and suitable environment.
And what are your plans for the future of the practice? To carry on developing our facial aesthetic initiatives here at Hickman House and to continue with my personal professional development.
Rupra Cosmetic Smiles & Facial Aesthetics Hickman House, 25 Hickman Rd, Penarth, Vale of Glamorgan CF64 2AJ 029 2070 8317 rupra.cosmetic.smiles@gmail.com Like on Facebook
There are many reasons why someone may want to lose weight; such as a wedding, a beach holiday or, with Christmas fast approaching, getting into that little black dress. However, it is important to take a healthy approach to weight reduction and ensure you don’t put the pounds back on again.
WEIGHT LOSS THAT WORKS!
At The Weight Care Centre, Cardiff, Dr. Essam El Fayoumy has had much success with his three tier approach of non-invasive liposuction, fitness training, and diet and nutrition. We chat to one of his clients, Lorna Vale, to find out more. How did you hear about the Weight Care Centre? From a friend who had joined after seeing the sign from the bus window whilst traveling into town. What made you want to go there? I had been very overweight for a number of years and had done the usual slimming clubs in an attempt to do something about it - the friend had joined this gym and was telling me about it and, I have to confess, I was suspicious - it did sound a bit “faddy”. She was telling me of the meal replacements system that she was on, however in a very short space of
time the results were visible and she was enjoying the physical side of the program that she had been allocated. It was her results and encouragement that persuaded me to look at the Weight Care Centre. What plan did you follow? I follow the full plan which is similar to the Cambridge diet (which wasn’t as much of a replacement system as I had thought) the twice weekly gym sessions and the non-invasive liposuction. Recently I have also attended either a yoga or Pilates session on a weekly basis. I have to say I am really enjoying all aspects of the regime. How did you find Dr. Essam El Fayoumy? There is an easy way to describe him - sweet! Although on my first consultation he did stress that I had a lot of work in front of me and that it wasn’t going to be an instant fix. 64
He asked about my general health and lifestyle. Only then did he suggest the diet, especially after I confessed that I did have the habit of missing breakfast due to time. He also put together an eating plan that would fit into my normal working day which included foods that I did like, not a single lettuce leaf was suggested to me. How long is your plan? The plan is as long as it takes. I have no intention of giving up until I reach my goal weight which was determined more by BMI than a number on the scales. I have to confess recently I have been cheating on the regime, so it will take a bit longer than it should, but I enjoy going to the centre on the thrice weekly basis for the gym and yoga/ Pilates which, although hard work, is very social.
“The results were visible...”
Buying clothes has been an expensive exercise as I had nothing that fitted well enough to be worn if a smart outfit was required and I had no summer clothes that fitted. I enjoy the gym and I also walk a lot more that I have for many years and have been indoor skydiving and water hover boarding recently - loved the former couldn’t do the latter. But both of which I would not have considered doing this time last year. I have much more self-confidence now and I know that it is related to my body image. Will you continue with the plan once your work with the Weight Care Centre is over? I know that I still have more work to do before getting to my goal weight and after to maintain. In the past, once I had got to my goal weight, I did not maintain it as I stopped doing all the things that I knew I should do. I have every intention of continuing to attend the Weight Care Centre for both the medical and social benefits. Are happy to recommend the centre to friends, family and colleagues? I would and have recommended the centre to friends and colleagues, one of whom has joined recently and is currently doing very well and enjoying the experience. I do however stress that it is not cheap and does require a lot of hard work on your part, but the cost of the program has certainly, in my case, been offset by the fact that I no longer buy a lot of crisps and sweets and food that I throw away. The cost of the program is probably less than I have paid over the years in various slimming clubs and, at least this time, I have a positive outcome. Have you seen much improvement since you started? There has been a change of staff which I was apprehensive about - I was overweight and very self-conscious of my body shape. The girls I started with were very nice and did not make me feel uncomfortable however I needn’t have worried, the new trainers that I work with are just as approachable. They are pleasant but still make you work at the exercises, and I feel as comfortable now as with the original staff members. Since I started the number of services offered has expanded, massage sessions and the more recent yoga and Pilates, the pieces of gym equipment has also been increased offering a wider variety of exercises. On a personal note my fitness level and body shape has changed dramatically, I no longer feel that a flight of stairs is an exercise session on their own.
However the biggest improvement is the change in my health status. When I started in July of 2014 I was a tablet controlled diabetic, and I also had medication for blood pressure. In an interim check just before Christmas, the decision was to remove the diabetic medication and to see if the sugar levels remained steady. On the last annual diabetes check I had reduced my status from registered diabetic to normal. I am not even in the ‘at risk’ category and my blood pressure had reverted to normal. How has the regime changed you and your lifestyle? My food shopping on the whole has improved. I still occasionally have a blow out and eat all the things that I should not but it is now only very occasionally rather than on a weekly basis. I no longer buy a lot of crisps and sweets. I also use to do a lot of impulse food buying most of which I didn’t eat and would end up being thrown away. 65
Dr. Essam El Fayoumy
Weight Care Centre 189 Cathedral Road Cardiff CF11 9PN 029 2025 5258 info@weightcarecentre.com www.weightcarecentre.com Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter
After qualifying in 2010, and with six years experience in clinic and salon environments, Suzanne Lazim’s natural career progression was to open her own clinic. Suzanne did just that, and says it’s the best decision she’s made.
LASERWISE
What services does LaserWise provide Suzanne? We specialise in laser treatments which includes hair removal, tattoo removal, non-ablative skin rejuvenation, facial and leg vein removal, pigmentation removal, nail fungus treatment, acne treatment and anti-ageing treatments for fine lines and wrinkles. We also offer skin peels and resurfacers which treat acne, pigmentation, aged skin, and can also be used for a general refresh of the skin. We’re thrilled to have the brand new DermaPen; this is the latest version of micro-needling which treats scarring, open pores, stretch marks, lines and wrinkles. Our electrolysis is very popular for hair removal and can treat all hair types and colours.
There’s been a great demand for our wide range of beauty treatments such as waxing, threading, tinting, eyelash perming/lifting, gelish manicures and pedicures. To complete our menu of services, I also work alongside our therapist who’s specially trained in semipermanent make up, Reiki treatments, and natural lash extensions and a nurse that specialises in Botox and fillers.
“ We specialise in laser treatments which includes: hair removal, tattoo removal, non-ablative skin rejuvenation and more.” 66
What is the most popular treatment at your salon so far? It’s definitely a tie between laser hair removal and tattoo removal at the moment. As tattoos have become more fashionable and accepted over the years, we’ve noticed a major increase in tattoo removal. People are either removing very old tattoos permanently or fading them enough to have them covered up and re-designed. We find that this treatment helps tattoo artists with their job of covering up, as there is a lot less ink to cover, giving a better finish on the replacement tattoo. Laser Hair Removal has always been popular with women and now, increasingly, with men. These days men are more aware of their appearance and more likely to invest in making themselves look and feel better.
“Our therapist is specially trained in semi-permanent make up, Reiki treatments and natural lash extensions and a nurse that specialises in Botox and fillers.” Dalya Naser, Receptionist and Suzanne Lazim, Owner & Laser Practitioner
We also have transgender clients who are transforming from male to female and want to remove their facial and body hair. Laser hair removal overall is becoming more affordable and, with the use of these great machines, they are achieving amazing results. Do you have any plans for the future? As the business is new, I would just like it to continue to grow. Technology-wise, I already have some of the best equipment in Wales and offer a wide range of treatments so the focus is more on getting LaserWise’s name out there.
LaserWise Skin & Beauty Clinic 202 Whitchurch Road Cardiff CF14 3NB 02921 322 424
In the distant future I would love to see LaserWise Skin & Beauty Clinic open in different areas and have a chain of clinics - but, for now, having this clinic in Cardiff is perfect.
www.laserwiseclinic.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter 67
You know you are in good hands when a company has been partnered with the NHS for 25 years and The British Skin Foundation, as well as being a founding member of the Government backed ‘Treatment You Can Trust’ register.
SK:N CLINIC
sk:n are leading UK dermatologists that have recently opened their latest in a large network of medical based skin clinics at David Lloyd Leisure, Cardiff. Their partnerships have allowed sk:n to lead the way in dermatological skin care with all of their treatments using full medical protocols in a state-ofthe-art environment, with over 200 specialist skin treatments available within the clinic. Their services range across the board, from acne treatment and laser hair removal to dermatology, injectables and fillers. No matter what your dermatological requirement there is something for everyone who wants great looking skin.
In todays society skin clinics are not a new thing, often several being located within a single area, yet sk:n manages to shine above everyone else for one simple fact, their approach to clients’ safety. In each and every one of sk:n’s clinics they have their own Medical Standards Team and a Medical Director, all there to give the highest possible standards of safety and quality. As mentioned earlier, sk:n are a founding member of the Government’s ‘Treatment You Can Trust’ register and, in addition to their work with the NHS over the last 25 years, they are regulated by the Care Quality Commission. So when visiting one of their regulated clinics you will have piece of mind about the service knowing you are in safe and capable hands.
“ Over 200 specialist skin treatments available.” 68
With plans for more clinics opening over the next two years, sk:n aims to continue offering the safest and greatest possible range of treatments - more than any other chain of dermatology clinics.
Cardiff sk:n Clinic David Lloyd Leisure Ipswich Road, Cardiff CF23 9AQ 0800 028 7222 www.sknclinics.co.uk
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Heyland & Whittle Limited Edition Black Narcissi Candle www.heylandandwhittle.co.uk £30
B EST BEAUTY 4
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Make Believe Self Tan Mist with Bronzer www.makebelievebeauty.com £14.99
Yves Saint Laurent Black Opium Eau de Toilette 30ml - £39.00, 50ml - £52.00, 90ml - £77.00
Dr. Hauschka Night Serum www.drhauschka.co.u £39
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The Creative Quarter is a thriving new office development taking shape above Cardiff ’s iconic Royal and Morgan arcades. The space has been reconfigured and refurbished to create offices and studios aimed primarily at creative industries.
CREATIVE QUARTER
Care has been taken to retain the original Victorian features of the spaces and the resulting studios are bright, airy and full of character. We stopped by at the heart of Cardiff ’s flourishing creative community for a chat with Assistant Facilities Manager Marika Jones.
There’s a wonderful vibrancy about both the Morgan and Creative Quarters right now. Please tell us about the Creative Quarter and what type of businesses are here already? Our first business, IBI Group, moved here in December 2013 followed by RSAW. These businesses occupied the first space to be developed. The main development was completed in December 2014. Businesses share a social hub for relaxation and informal meetings and there are also communal meeting rooms for the use of occupiers. The Creative Quarter is already home to some exciting design businesses including IBI, The Urbanists, Amy Mair Couture and MarkJames_Works to name a few. 70
We have also recently welcomed Just Park, Locality Solutions and Smorgasbord, and are confident that the Creative Quarter is fast becoming an exceptional location for businesses looking for space that represents their creative ethos. Is there any space still available? What type of businesses are you hoping to attract? Yes we currently have five more studios to let with a new phase of development under consideration. This ehoes our philosophy of making the Morgan Quarter an icon for the promotion of independent businesses.
“ The Creative Quarter is already home to some exciting design businesses.”
“ The Creative Quarter is fast becoming an exceptional location for businesses looking for space that represents their creative ethos.”
What are the benefits to a business of being in the Creative Quarter? Businesses share communal meeting spaces and social facilities which nurture a community feel and possibilities for collaboration. The CQ is centrally located close to public transport links and has the benefit of all that the city centre has to offer. There are obviously additional cost saving benefits to sharing communal space. What are your plans for the future? We have a future phase under consideration, and we also have quite a few new retailers opening in the Morgan Quarter which is great news.
“ Businesses share a social hub for relaxation and informal meetings.” 71
Cardiff Creative Quarter Morgan Arcade, The Hayes City Centre, Cardiff CF10 1AF 029 2034 8881 www.cardiffcreativequarter.com/lettings Follow on Twitter @CQdiff
It’s official! Cardiff is now among the top six shopping destinations in the UK - and with the Rugby World Cup upon us, City Life popped in to Cardiff ’s eminent store, Castle Welsh Crafts on Castle Street, to say hello and talk all things souvenir with owner Bob Rice.
CASTLE WELSH CRAFTS
Hi. Your store seems to have been around forever - it’s a definite Welsh icon. How long have you been in business? The shop has been in existence for over 37 years and started in the Castle Arcade. When this current site became available, I twisted my bank manager’s arm and opened what you’ve rightly acknowledged as a Cardiff institution. The business has always been a family concern with family members dropping in and out. Castle Welsh is headed up by myself and my daughter Charlotte Rice-Ward along with my brother-in-law helping out part time. What are your favourite items in the shop and the most popular items with tourists? That would have to be the lovespoons. They’re hand crafted by several talented carvers from around Wales. I’m very proud of the quality and selection we have to offer - and, as an item unique to Wales, they’re the most popular souvenirs/gifts with our visitors too. They’re certainly a best seller.
We imagine the shop gets very busy on match or event days - how do you manage during these times? On match days the atmosphere in the shop is great with all hands on deck. Luckily we do have fluent Welsh speakers on the team and a couple of staff members are well versed in ‘Franglais’. There have also been times when we’ve ended up singing for customers. All the Rice family are musical and some of our team are choir members, so a quick rendition of ‘Calon Lan’ in four part harmony has been known to happen. We’ve heard that you have a new online store. Yes, with the help of a younger member of staff, I’ve recently set up an online store which reflects the unique nature of our business. I was keen for online customers to get the same service as those who come into our store. So, while it’s impossible to have all of our products online, the website does offer a great selection with particular focus on lovespoons. Our shop also has a Facebook page and Twitter account. 72
Tell us about the Dragon CrossFit challenge that you’ve embarked on? One of our team, Tess, started a journey to weight loss, health and fitness through Andy Edwards of Dragon CrossFit in Cardiff Bay. Seeing the transformation - including a weight loss of over four stone - in both general physical and mental health that the gym helped her achieve, I embarked on my own campaign and now we both enjoy exchanging tales of personal best deadlifts and bench presses. For the record Tess now deadlifts 110Kg (at the age of nearly 60) and I lift 165kg, and we both continue to train hard around four times a week.
“I want to continue to promote Wales and to provide customers with the warm welcome and unique shopping experience the business has always prided itself on.”
That’s brilliant, well done to the pair of you. Now last, but not least - what plans are there for the future? Going forward I would like to increase the focus on gifts and mementos made by the many talented small producers based in Wales. I want to continue to promote Wales and to provide customers with the warm welcome and unique shopping experience the business has always prided itself on. With Charlotte taking on more and more of the lead role, and now with the arrival of baby Abigail, the future for Castle Welsh Crafts looks very bright.
Castle Welsh Crafts Ltd 1-3 Castle Street, Cardiff CF10 1BS 029 2034 3038 www.castlewelshcrafts.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter 73
Bespoke kitchen design and installation
New showroom now open 029 2049 6166 Unit 7, Anchor Industrial Estate, Dumballs Road, Cardiff CF10 5FF info@avantgardedesign.co.uk | www.avantgardedesign.co.uk
JACK & ROSE
est 1934
ROOSEVELT
BESPOKE SOFAS & CHAIRS We offer bespoke sofas and chairs in any size and design with fabrics to suit you and your lifestyle.
RE-UPHOLSTERY SPECIALISTS Breathe life back into a treasured piece of furniture so that you can love it all over again.
Banthorpe House, Crosby Yard, Bridgend CF31 1JZ Open Monday to Saturday 9am – 5pm evoke your inner style
MADELINE-ANNE LOVINGLY CREATED BESPOKE SOFAS & CHAIRS
MADE-TO-MEASURE CURTAINS & PELMETS Whether it’s elegant, dramatic or fun, we have hundreds of quality curtain and upholstery fabrics.
evoke your inner style BEAUTIFUL HAND-MADE BEDS Let Jack & Rose design and create the stunning bespoke bed of your dreams.
01656 768844 info@jackandrose.co.uk www.jackandrose.co.uk
Willows Jewellery & Gifts is a newly opened independent bespoke jeweller in Cardiff ’s beautiful Royal Arcade. Offering its very own brand of designer bespoke jewellery and gift pieces, the company is already overwhelmed by the reception it has received. City Life visited the new shop in Cardiff ’s Morgan Quarter and spoke to Manager, Tolis, to find out more about the venture.
A NEW GEM IN TOWN
I graduated as a gemologist at the Gemological Institute of America in the London campus. As accomplished professional jewellers, we were in the wholesale side of the jewellery industry for many years. Our jewellery is handmade and designed in our own workshop, therefore we can offer very competitive prices. Most of our jewellery is crafted in 18K yellow and white gold.
Our stones are sourced from Antwerp in Belgium. We create the most unique designs and each item is exclusively bespoke. All of our jewellery is new nothing is pre-owned. Prior to our opening in Cardiff earlier this year, our market research showed that there is a gap in the market for bespoke handmade jewellery. Our next step was to offer our jewellery through retail.
Willows love being here in the Morgan Quarter and are proud to offer our unique jewellery in Cardiff. We have a small selection of our stock online, however our full collection is available to view in store. We also sell a beautiful collection of silver jewellery. Our silver gifts by Italian company Argenesi are exclusive and make the perfect present for weddings, Christmas and business gifts or just to personalise the home or workplace. We are overwhelmed by how well the shop has started off with clients coming to us from across Wales and all over the UK - for the future we are hoping to expand our business in Bath but for now - Hello Cardiff
“ All of our pieces are designed and hand made in our own workshop in Antwerp, Belgium.”
Willows Jewellery & Gifts 26 Royal Arcade Cardiff CF10 1AE 029 2037 3541 willowsjewellery@gmail.com www.willowsjewellery.com Like on Facebook
“ We love being here in the Morgan Quarter.” 79
When choosing any company to carry out work at your home, it pays to do your research. Mr. Lee Jones of Broadlands, Bridgend did just that and finally chose to work with Alexander James Bi-fold. We visited Mr. Jones at his home to find out more.
ROOM WITH A VIEW
How many companies did you research before choosing Alexander James? Firstly a friend recommended Alexander James to us, and then I did more research on another fifteen companies online and via the telephone. I like to be thorough! What made you choose Alexander James? I particularly liked the telephone manner of the salesperson. He also gave good advice and was not pushing at all to get the sale. He was genuinely friendly. I also visited the showroom to see the manufacturing process and to see what they had to offer. I was impressed so I then arranged for them to come out and take the measurements. They were also very competitively priced.
“We also went for the tinted glazing as we wanted to keep the strong sun out of the room and integral blinds which I saw on Grand Designs.”
Did you know what you wanted from the design? We had an extension on the house to turn it from a four bedroom house to a six bedroom one. We added the two bedrooms as well as an additional living room. We wanted bifold doors to take advantage of the garden, to bring in more light and to be able to see the children playing. We also went for the tinted glazing as we wanted to keep the strong sun out of the room and integral blinds which I saw on the Grand Designs programme!
Would you be happy to recommend Alexander James to friends and colleagues? Absolutely. How I measure good service is by how a company resolve faults. There were a few little niggles but that’s to be expected in any job. As soon as we mentioned these, they came around very promptly and effortlessly resolved them.
What were the workmen like? They were incredibly helpful, prompt and tidy. How long did the fit take? It took just a few hours to install. As it was a new build, it was a straightforward fit. What difference have the bifolds made to you and your home? A huge difference. We’ve brought the outside in and extended the usable space. We now have a grown-up living room which myself and my wife can spend time in while the children play in their room. 80
Alexander James Unit 3A Ashmount Business Park, Upper Forest Way, Swansea SA6 8QR 01792 794 549 www.alexanderjamesbifold.co.uk
A LEXANDER JAMES BIFOLD BIFOLD DOORS & WINDOWS
Alexander James the BiFold experts Alexander James is part of the w Group and is a Welsh design and manufacturing company with its head office in Swansea, Wales’ second city (although many in Swansea think it’s the first!). Alexander James specialises in the design, manufacture and installation of bifold doors and windows. They have been doing it for a long time so they know their stuff. “Whether it’s a set or doors for your home or perhaps you’re in business and need a set there, Alexander James has the talent, technology and professionalism to ensure your project is delivered on budget and on time,”Says Andy Farmer, Sales Director. If you have a project you’d like a quote on, please get in touch on 01792 794549. 81
Whether you’re an enthusiastic amateur or a time served gardening expert, there are always plenty of things to do to get the best from your garden. Resident gardening expert, Rob Hodge, talks about his favourite creepers.
JEEPERS CREEPERS!
Soon to be arriving on a wall or structure near you - the most colourful climbers in nature: the Virginia Creeper and the Boston Ivy.
Parthenocissus Quinquefolia (the name describing its five fingered leaves) and Parthenocissus Tricuspidata (describing its three pointed leaves) are related but climb and cling by different methods. The Virginia Creeper uses tendrils to wrap around its host and the Boston Ivy uses suction pads to cling to surfaces. They are both deciduous, losing their leaves in late autumn followed by lush dark green foliage in the spring, which changes to a bright scarlet from September onwards.
They insulate brickwork from the extremes of temperature and moisture that can often cause the cracks in the walls. If your walls are already cracked and damaged then any creeper will find its way in, the same applies to large trees where if the tree is healthy, the climber covers it and provides a wild life habitat and does no damage to the tree but if the tree is diseased or already damaged, then the climber will penetrate, add extra weight to it and could eventually cause it to fall. Think ahead before you plant. Proper planning prevents poor performance.
You may be surprised to know that not only do they provide colour and character but, contrary to popular belief, these plants positively protect walls by acting as a thermal blanket.
Rob Hodge Horticulture 01633 744 075 07779 604 710 or 07503 189 754
“ With all creepers, think ahead before you plant. Proper planning prevents poor performance.”
www.robhodgehorticulture.co.uk info@robhodgehorticulture.co.uk 82
Stunning New Care Home with Bushey House Beaumont Care Home Cardiff Now open in Castleton,
Bryn Ivor Lodge is now open! Why not pop in and take a tour of this brand new care home? We are proud to announce the opening of our new care home in Castleton. Bryn Ivor Lodge is a purpose-built care home offering bespoke care in a luxurious setting. Alongside personalised care, our care home offers an impressive choice of delicious meals prepared by our chefs, and a range of daily activities organised by our dedicated activities coordinators. We have a range of services and facilities to suit all care needs: Nursing care • Residential care • Dementia care • Respite care
If you would like a tour of our new care home or just need some friendly advice, call: 01633 730 624
Helen Randall
General Manager
Newport Road, Castleton, Newport, Cardiff, CF3 2UQ
www.barchester.com
Watching Pugh’s Garden Village in Radyr transform itself over the last few years has been intriguing. I loved the Farm Shop as soon as it opened and the new café, where the new extension and shop is now, has been a triumph. By my boundless enthusiasm, you’re probably guessing I’m a fan.
A BEAUTIFUL
“ We are passionate about customer service.” Walk through the new entrance at Pugh’s Garden Village and you’re greeted with a friendly face at the new reception and information area. The brand new two storey extension is now home to Pugh’s management team on the first floor and the ground floor space has been opened up to create a beautifully spacious gift shop with a fantastic range of products carefully selected to ensure there is something to suit all budgets whilst meeting Pugh’s exacting quality standard. Along with hundreds of new top-of-the-range gift products and well-known brands to suit all occasions and ages. Helen Pugh has spent the last year thoroughly researching the latest gift trends and has identified a truly amazing selection.
From children’s toys and gifts including well-known brands such as Jellycat and Orange Tree, to home furnishings and fragrance (Pugh’s carry a lovely range of natural wooden wick candles from Root), and beautifully designed cushions laid out on handcrafted solid oak furniture. There’s also a range of handmade products made in Wales by local brands such as The Polka Dot Duck and beauty and skincare by Miss Patisserie and De Paloma, so you really will be spoiled for choice. Nicola Pugh says, “Creating a new area specifically for gifts enables us to enhance the gardening section which is the real heart of the business. Matthew Harding Director of Pugh’s Construction has worked tirelessly 84
on the project over the past year and the finish speaks for itself.” Managing Director, Graham Pugh, says, “I’d like to thank our staff for all their hard work. We listened to our loyal customers and we have taken great pride in being able to develop and transform Pugh’s from what has always been a great garden centre into the complete shopping experience.” When describing the new shop to friends I use the caterpillar/butterfly analogy - the transformation is that impressive. As a shopping experience, whether you have green fingers and are buying for the garden or just looking for a gift, Pugh’s Garden Village really is the perfect package.
TRANSFORMATION
Pugh’s Garden Village Radyr Tynant Nurseries, Morganstown, Radyr Cardiff CF15 8LB 029 2084 2017 Also at Pugh’s Garden Village Wenvoe Port Road Wenvoe CF5 6AD 029 2059 8118 info@stylegardens.co.uk www.pughsgardencentre.co.uk 85
After celebrating their first year, we catch up with Kelly Simms from Lettings Angels to find out how the business has become one of the most popular Lettings Agencies in the Welsh Capital in such a short space of time
LETTINGS A NGELS it’s a great privilege to work with such dynamic people who are so keen to learn and progress within your company.
Congratulations on your first years success as a new business - things look pretty busy? It’s been an incredible 15 months and a rather manic summer here, with the new intake of University Students for this academic year all competing for the best students houses or room shares. We have taken on more new landlords and managed properties than I thought possible in a short space of time as well as new staff to manage the demand.
that I can spend more time with landlords building key relationships. Having built the brand from nothing, it was crucial that to give away any responsibility it had to be to the right person, and I believe that Cardiff University graduate James Thomas is that person. He has taken to the role with confidence and competence and I have high hopes for him one day running the day to day operations in the Cathays Branch.
There are currently over 114 lettings agencies in Cardiff - how do you differentiate Letting Angels? Having worked in the industry in the area for eleven years I have a number of really loyal landlords that have supported Lettings Angels from day one. We also have a huge number of referrals from landlords and word of mouth recommendations, this has allowed allowed us to take the brand from a small to major agency in the area averaging fourteen lets per week in the last quarter.
This is not the first success you have had with a university student is it? That’s right, Jessica Braden joined us last year as part of a work placement through Cardiff Metropolitan University and has, subsequently, been employed on a full time basis during the holidays and part time now she is back studying her third year in Business Management and Finance. We also employ A level student Georgia Prothero who works weekends and over the school holidays around her education commitments. I feel the younger team members bring so much energy and fun to the office;
What is it that makes your customer service standout? All of our staff really care about each individual, whether they be a landlord, tenant or applicant, and we ensure that their demands are not only met on a professional level but also a personal one. We have amazing feedback from tenants week in week out commenting on how they have never dealt with an agency like us. There seems to be some new faces around the office? Yes, for some time, I have been looking for a special person to take some key responsibilities away from myself so 86
So with young members progressing through the ranks, will you be opening a second branch soon? Given our huge internet presence and ability to target any type of demographic, and our high success rate in obtaining high quality tenants for properties ranging from cheap and cheerful room-shares in Roath to executive detached homes in the Vale of Glamorgan, I do not see the current benefit in opening a second lettings office. However, we are in the process of finalising the details of launching Sales Angels next year which will be pure residential sales. So when you’re not busy with Lettings Angels and drawing up plans for new sister company Sales Angels, what do you do for fun? When I’m not in the office I do enjoy gardening and baking. I used to enjoy showjumping but had to sell my horse due to the time commitments that comes with running a company, however I am now getting into the world of motor sport and have jointly purchased an Mazda MX5 which I hope to be able to race next year with a few more lessons! Letting Angels 129 Woodville Road, Cardiff CF24 4DZ 029 2233 1425 info@lettingsangels.co.uk www.lettingsangels.co.uk Like on Facebook
One city, three outstanding care homes
Regency House Care Home, Mill Road, Ely, Cardiff CF5 4AH regency@ hallmarkcarehomes.co.uk 02920 566000
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Welcome to City Life Magazine’s Social Life section, a veritable who’s who in and around the capital. Sally Evans, Rachel Wheeler, Louise Davies, Andrea Evans, Rhian Burke, Rebecca lloyd, Nicola Powell, Naomi Jones
SOCIAL L IFE PONTCANNA FIELDS
The sport of kings returns in style
Castell Polo recently presented Polo In The City. The sport of king’s made its return to the capital city in style with The Watches Of Wales Cup. Taking place within a specially created Polo Village on Pontcanna Fields, guests turned up in their hundreds to experience the sport, glamour and excitement of Polo. www.castellpolo.co.uk
Cheselle Brierton & Jay Page
Cliff Vanstone & Carrie Lloyd Roberts
Matthew Bennett & Giovanni Malacrino
Olivia Mason & Parris Shapley
Steve Sulley, Zoe Westerman, Jon Hollins
Castell Polo host, Matt Johnsons
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CARDIFF
Lettings Angels ride high Lettings Angels, one of Cardiff’s most thriving lettings agencies, were delighted to sponsor a team of show jumpers at The David Broome Show Jumping Centre in Chepstow in August. The team of show jumpers from Cardiff, Penarth and Cross Hands delighted spectators by dressing up as Lettings ‘Angels’. Managing Director, Kelly Simms, who has a keen interest in show jumping was delighted with the teams performance and the interest generated from potential clients in attendance on the day. Lettings Angels 129 Woodville Road, Cardiff CF24 4DZ 029 2233 1425 info@lettingsangels.co.uk www.lettingsangels.co.uk Like on Facebook HENSOL
Hensol Castle welcomes guests to VIP launch Newly opened conference and wedding venue, Hensol Castle, welcomed guests to an official corporate launch on 23 June 2015, showcasing the recently refurbished venue in the grounds of the 4 star Vale Resort. Guests of the VIP launch enjoyed an evening of musical entertainment, a ‘Wines of the World’ tasting experience, courtesy of Fine Wines Direct, and an exclusive Q and A session with Wales rugby coach, Warren Gatland, and former Welsh international footballer, Craig Bellamy. The 400 year-old Grade I listed castle has undergone a multi-million pound refurbishment and reopened as a firstclass venue in May this year. The first phase of the £10 million programme included a complete upgrade of five function rooms and the construction of a new, purpose-built Courtyard Hall. The Courtyard Hall is capable of accommodating 320 delegates theatrestyle and 200 banquet-style. This is complemented by the five smaller meeting rooms in the castle itself, which can host between 10 to 100 delegates per room theatre-style. Phase two of the refurbishment will include adding up to 30 bedrooms and a high-end restaurant serving 120 covers, and is expected to be open by late 2016. Hensol Castle www.vale-hotel.com 89
Christmas is all about indulgence - great company, good wine and, most importantly, great food. If you’re charged with booking where to go, then let us make life easier for you. E J Catering, the awardwinning catering company of choice for Cardiff and the Vale has teamed up with Portland House, Cardiff Bay and are hosting an evening of great food in stunning surroundings for one night only.
SPEND CHRISTMAS WITH
E J CATERING
Why did you choose Portland House to hold the event? As soon as we saw the Banking Hall within Portland House, we fell in love with it. Built as a bank in 1912, the space was originally used as a showpiece for Welsh wealth in the early part of the 20th Century and consequently boasts an incredible Grecian design including marble walls and pillars, a glass atrium and intricate detailed wall and ceiling art. It has ample car parking space and, being in the Bay, is easily accessible. What date will you be holding the event? It’ll be on Friday 18th of December. What can we expect from the menu? Guests can enjoy a cracker of canapes to start, free range Turkey Wellington with a wrapped chipolata and rich home-made gravy with all of the trimmings and, for dessert, Christmas pudding with brandy custard, dark chocolate fondant with Christmas berry
cream or Mince pie pinewheel with crumble topping and vanilla custard and we’ll finish off with coffee shots. Why choose E J Catering? We are not ones to bang our own drum – we let our customers do that for us! Food is our main focus and all our dishes are homemade, using quality, seasonal ingredients from some of the best suppliers in Wales. Presentation is also key and EJ Catering’s fun, quirky side is reflected in our food and service. Do not expect the usual Christmas fayre at this event, but rather great homemade food, presented with an EJ twist. Look forward to a great night out with a meal that is exquisitely presented mouth-wateringly succulent and, above all else, tasty! Who will this event appeal to? Couples, families, friends, office parties, and anyone looking to celebrate this Christmas with an evening of great food, in stunning surroundings with like-minded diners. 90
How do we book? All you need to do is contact us on info@ejcatering or call us on 029 2033 1723.
E J Catering Unit P5, Capital Business Park Capital Point, Parkway, Cardiff CF3 2PU 029 2033 1723 07974 810983 www.ejcatering.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter and Instagram
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THANK YOU Thanks for taking the time to read the autumn edition of City Life magazine. City Life is the City Of Cardiff ’s premier lifestyle magazine. We print 10,000 copies of each edition and cut no corners on design, production and the quality of our print. Talking about printing, we source pretty much everything locally, and over 95% of City Life’s turnover is reinvested back into the community of South Wales. If you have a business and are interested in promoting your goods or services to an aspirational audience in Cardiff then City Life is almost certainly right for you. Jennifer Hobbs-Roberts Editor jennifer@goodlifepublishing.co.uk
“Follow your heart, not your head.” Kevin Green, Wealth Coach www.kevingreen.com
P ROMOTING YOUR BUSINESS We value our advertisers. We appreciate the trust they place in us by promoting their businesses in our magazines. With our local partners, we currently publish a range of high quality quarterly titles across Wales. You can advertise your business from as little as £35 per season in this magazine. Pick-up-ability! Our magazines aren’t like other magazines. They have real pick-up appeal - in fact, they really do go like hot cakes. Quality comes first... along with the environment. We’re passionate about quality. The magazines are beautifully written and designed, and printed locally in South Wales on high quality paper (and no nasty varnishes or lamination we’re as green as green can be). Quality distribution to an affluent, aspirational audience... We distribute our magazines to over 1,000 carefully selected outlets across South Wales. We’d love to have your business on board. If you’d like to promote your business or service in our magazines, please get in touch, we’d love the opportunity to work with you.
OUR TITLES We proudly publish four Life-style magazines and one business to business title. Vale Life (our first magazine). This covers the beautiful Vale of Glamorgan - the most southerly county in Wales and deemed to be the most affluent. Vale Life was the first magazine we published. City Life The premier lifestyle magazine for Cardiff, Wales’ capital city. The magazine is delivered to all areas of Cardiff. Valleys Life At the heart of the South Wales Valleys. From the Neath Valley in the West to Blaenau Gwent and Pontypool in the East. West Life Covering Carmarthenshire, Pembrokeshire and coastal Ceredigion, West Life is in touch with the relaxed lifestyle of this very special part of Wales. In Business Wales’ premier magazine for people in business. This is the kind of publication people in business want to read; interesting, inspirational and aspirational.
WHAT A DVERTISERS SAY “The best advertising we’ve ever done!” Andy Bradshaw, Partner, Hamptons, Penarth. “Honestly, the best response I’ve ever had.” Matt Mullooly, Owner, Northern Star, Penarth. “At last, advertising that really delivers.” Ann Bryl, Owner, Bryl’s Boutique, Barry. “A truly astonishing response.” Russell Scott-Lawson, Owner, Hawkes, Cardiff. “The experience I have had with this magazine has restored my faith in advertising. Gauci Organic Candles is a small business with an equally small advertising budget. We have to make every pound count and that’s what we get with Vale Life, City Life and Valleys Life. It’s refreshing to find a magazine that really understands my business. They are never short of ideas. I recommend them whenever I can.” Spiro Gauci, Owner, Gauci Organic Candles, Cardiff www.gaucicandles.co.uk “These are beautiful publications. We love working with people who are passionate about what they do.” Spiro Borg, Spiros Caterers, www.spiros.co.uk We’d love the opportunity to show you what a truly effective campaign in our publications can achieve.
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