City Life Spring 2016

C ITY L IFE SPRING 2016

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Delicious!

WE INTERVIEW NICK COLLINS OF THE PICKLED RADISH, LLANDAFF BOUTIQUES, SALONS, INTERIORS, CARS, SPORTS & MORE

Restaurant Reviews What’s On, Business, Shopping

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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.co.uk 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.”

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Important you read this We have made every effort to ensure that all information contained in City Life or on www.citylifecardiff.co.uk (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.

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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.co.uk Like on Facebook! www.facebook.com/CityLifeCardiff Follow on Twitter! @CityLifeCardiff #CityLifeCardiff

WELCOME

Springtime in Cardiff is a pretty special time. On my travels around our great city I love seeing the daffodils popping up and the warmer weather seems to put a smile on our faces - spring fills us with optimism.

In this issue of City Life, I think there’s much to make us smile; our beautiful cover shot by Sian Owen is a dish

by Nick Collins who has recently opened The Pickled Radish restaurant in Llandaff.

Nick already has a successful catering business (Grate Catering) and this is the baby sister restaurant to The Pickled Radish in Laleston in The Vale more on pages 18 and 19.

Just before going to press we enjoyed a fabulous day out test driving the beautiful Maserati Quattroporte and Ghibli after a special presentation at the newly refurbished Motorline Maserati showroom. We drove up through the valleys and Brecon Beacons and were treated to a superb lunch at the renowned Walnut Tree Inn near Abergavenny great fun and a truly special day.

As usual, City Life is packed with great little independent businesses and, I have to say, I love meeting them. I know I bang on about it, but it’s our small independents that give such great character to our capital so please buy from them when you can.

Beyond The Border returns to south Wales this summer; a wonderful and vibrant three-day festival of stories and music from Wales, and across the world, that will take place from 1-3 July.

Choose Life

It’s an amazing family day (see feature on page 30 and 31).

There’ll be much to see and do this spring so please check in with us on twitter (@CityLifeCardiff) and Facebook. We also have our newly designed website online at www.citylifecardiff.co.uk thanks to Cog Creative (www.cogcreative. co.uk). Please add it to your favourites as we’ll be updating often over the coming months.

Our spine quote this issue is from The Tragedy of Coriolanus by William Shakespeare: “What is the city but the people?

True, the people are the city.”

I couldn’t agree more.

Hope you have a spring in your step this season, see you again in the summer.

Lewis Evans Client Relationship Director 07787 907926 lewis@goodlifepublishing.co.uk

C ITY L IFE AU T U M N 2 01 5

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Choose City Life

If you’d like to promote your business in City Life, please call Lewis Evans on 07787 907926.

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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.CITYLIFECARDIFF.CO.UK

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As we go to print, we are slowly getting over the disappointment of our beloved team’s performance against England in the Six Nations we’re sure they’ll bounce back, they always do. Our support of the Welsh team is legendary and it would be fantastic if we could get behind the Cardiff Blues in the same way.

They’re a great club and deserve our support - let’s get behind them.

AROUND THE CITY P O R T U G U E S E & I TA L I A N

Mia Porto Due This homely, family run restaurant fuses authentic Portuguese and Italian cuisine.

With a colourful array of dishes. Family restaurant, great value all day menu, sit in or out. Porto Due brings the best food and traditional quality to the table.

Unit 4, Brewery Quarter Cardiff CF10 1FG 029 2022 7147 www.portodue.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter

“ Porto Due brings the best food and traditional quality to the table.”

EXCLUSIVE FASHION

Calon Rhiwbeina By carefully selecting its lines, this stylish boutique offers a unique and exclusive range that you shouldn’t find elsewhere on the high street.

Calon Rhiwbeina aims to meet the needs of today’s modern woman by sourcing brands that design stylish, flattering and affordable clothes. We have Braintree thoughtful clothing, Mistral, Lily & me, Saskia and Ochre knitwear. New lines for Spring Summer 2016 will be: la Naturelle - beautiful linen separates from France. Pour Moi - gorgeous jersey wear designed and produced in Italy.

9-11 Lon Fach, Rhiwbina CF14 6DY 029 2061 0722 www.calonrhiwbeina.com Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter 6

SOUTH WALES

Motorline Cardiff Maserati Dealership Originally founded in 1972, Motorline has grown into one of the largest motor companies in the UK with dealerships that can be found in Cardiff and as far away as Kent.

The last three years have been good for Motorline Cardiff, with Toyota and Lexus branches opening up in 2013, but it was in 2015 that saw Motorline’s Maserati Dealership come to the city.

In addition to selling the spectacular range of one of the world’s iconic brands, Motorline Maserati offer an exceptional level of customer service that is truly second to none.

Even after you have left as an extremely happy customer Motorline fulfil a complete aftersales service; including servicing, MOT, repairs and more, and all performed by highly skilled technicians using nothing but manufacturer approved parts.

Motorline Maserati guarantee quality and value whilst continuing to give their customers the very best service that proud Maserati owners deserve.

291 Penarth Road, Cardiff CF11 8TT 029 2066 6472 www.motorline.co.uk/maserati Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter

“Motorline Maserati guarantee quality, value and the very best service.”

THE HEAD SAYS YES. THE HEART SAYS DEFINITELY, YES.

MASERATI GHIBLI. STARTING FROM £49,160 THE MASERATI GHIBLI IS POWERED BY A RANGE OF ADVANCED 3.0 LITRE V6 ENGINES WITH 8-SPEED ZF AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION INCLUDING, FOR THE FIRST TIME, A V6 TURBODIESEL ENGINE. Official fuel consumption figures for Maserati Ghibli range in mpg (l/100km): Urban 20.5 (13.8) – 37.2 (7.6), Extra Urban 39.8 (7.1) – 56.5 (5.0), Combined 29.4 (9.6) – 47.9 (5.9). CO2 emissions 223 – 158 g/km. Fuel consumption and CO2 figures are based on standard EU tests for comparative purposes and may not reflect real driving results.

Model shown is a Maserati Ghibli S at £70,383 On The Road including optional pearlescent paint at £1,776, 21” Titano design alloy wheels at £3,675 and Red brake callipers at £432. www.maserati.co.uk

MOTORLINE MASERATI CARDIFF 291 PENARTH ROAD, CARDIFF, GLAMORGAN, CF11 8TT Phone: 02920 666472 / Web: www.motorline.co.uk/maserati

9021 Motorline Cardiff Ghibli ad 190x134.5.indd 1

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F I V E S TA R H A I R CA R E

Precision Hair Design Since being awarded the prestigious 5 star award from the Good Salon Guide in their first year, Precision Hair Design continue to go from strength to strength.

Owner and Artistic Director, Lawrence Taylor, leads a dynamic team of talented professionals to provide a first class service. This well trained team are experts in hair care techniques from an extensive range of services. “Consultation is vital to the success of every appointment” explains Lawrence. “It’s really important to understand the person in your chair, from bone structure to lifestyle, everyone is unique and that’s why this industry is so exciting.”

S A L E S , S E RV I C E , I N S TA L L AT I O N

Deco Heat Deco Heat have been supplying and installing wood burners and fireplaces for over 20 years.

With the addition of our third showroom within The Pumping Station on Penarth Road, we are now able to offer an increased range of period fireplaces and surrounds to compliment our vast range.

Each and every system that Deco Heat supply and install are of the very highest quality, with HETAS qualified staff ready to guide you through the whole process, from choosing what is right for you and your property, right through to the final installation.

Within the group of companies we also supply and fit renewable heating systems including biomass, heat pumps and solar.

Ask us about Green Heat Wales and the Renewable Heat Incentive. We are MCS accredited to install all renewable technologies.

The Fire & Stove Shop Merthyr Road Tongwynlais CF15 7LF 029 2081 1478 Also at The Pumping Station Penarth Road Cardiff CF11 8TT 029 2023 0400 www.decoheat.co.uk Like on Facebook

298 North Road, Cardiff CF14 3BN 029 2132 1161

www.precisioncardiff.co.uk Like on Facebook, Follow on Twitter

RUGBY LIFE WALES

Welsh rugby fans!

This is the life...

If you live in Wales, love Wales and, more importantly, love Welsh rugby, these pages and website are for you.

With over 11,000 likes already, the Rugby Life Wales pages aim to promote Welsh rugby at kids, grass roots, club and international level.

If you’d like to contribute to the pages with photographs or reviews, please get in touch with the admin on Facebook.

“ Great game, great page, a must for all welsh rugby fans.

We need pages like this to promote our national game.

Well done - 5 stars!” Alan Reese

Here are the links: www.facebook.com/RugbyLifeWales www.twitter.com/RugbyLifeWales www.RugbyLifeWales.co.uk

EXTENSIONS & AFRO HAIR

ebony Hair and Beauty Edwina Amadife has been hairdressing for over twenty years.

In 2007 she opened her first salon, ebony Hair and Beauty, in Canton.

Following the salon’s rising success Edwina (Eddie) has now moved the salon to larger premises, with an elegant boudoir style facelift, to Rumney Hill in Cardiff. Hair extensions and afro hair are Eddie’s specialities, although her experience is considerable and list of qualifications include hair extensions, barbering, afro hair, and colour technician amongst others.

ebony Hair and Beauty 804 Newport Road, Cardiff CF3 4FH 029 2036 3235 www.ebonyhairandbeauty.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter

“ Hair extensions and afro hair Eddie’s specialities.”

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VA N I C U R E T O T H E R E S C U E

Nail Divas Last year Sian Llewellyn of Nail Divas began a new project that is set to revolutionise the nail industry.

Vanicures is a Ford Transit van that has been transformed into a mobile, state of the art nail bar complete with solar power, running water and lots of pink spots! Specialising in fabulous 15 minute gel manicures, Vanicures can be found nipping around the country visiting festivals, fayres, corporate and private events, parties and shows.

But did you know that Nail Divas in Whitchurch is much more than just a Nail Bar? Established as a social enterprise, working within the community, Nail Divas has provided training and work experience to many

disadvantaged young people and adults across South Wales. Its registered charity Fourteen-A Limited continues to run projects to help individuals develop their employability skills.

The Vanicures Project is run by Nail Divas and its registered charity, Fourteen-A Ltd. It allows newly qualified technicians the opportunity to experience a true working environment.

So come on people please support us.

3 Bishops Road, Whitchurch CF14 1LT 029 2060 6458 or 03000 30 30 14 www.naildivas.co.uk www.vanicures.co.uk Like on Facebook, Follow on Twitter

MADE TO MEASURE

PRICES FROM ÂŁ675 - T WO PIECE

37-39 Morgan Arcade, Cardiff CF10 1BS 029 2037 3780 www.hawkesessentials.com

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LEAD TIME 6 WEEKS

INDEPENDENT QUALIT Y

Hair Candy Providing professional yet friendly hair care and treatments that will show you why you should stay away from large chain hairdressers.

Hair Candy is an independent hair salon whose atmosphere can be likened to one you would find in the home of a good friend. Owners Jess and Suzanne implement a straightforward pricing structure with no hidden costs or stylist rankings to make sure that each of their services are affordable, and all handled with the same care and quality.

68 City Road, Cardiff CF24 3DD 029 2132 0021 www.haircandycardiff.weebly.com Find on Facebook, Twitter & Pinterest T R U LY I N D E P E N D E N T B A K E R Y

Pettigrew Bakeries Cardiff’s newest, completely independent artisan and traditional bakery is Now Open!

“ Pettigrew Bakers is now open and focused on baking superior quality bread and bakery products.”

Answering the demand for artisan baked goods, Pettigrew Bakers is now open and focused on baking superior quality bread and bakery products.

This proudly independent family run business, sister business of the highly successful Pettigrew tearooms, sources only the very best quality ingredients from local Welsh providers in order to provide incredible baking to everyone.

595 Cowbridge Road East, Victoria Park Cardiff CF5 1BE 029 213 2127 www.pettigrew-bakeries.co.uk Find on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram RELEASE YOUR INNER QUEEN

Missy Beautique New Year, New You! And what better way to celebrate 2016 than by visiting Missy Beautique on Newport Road to reveal your inner glamour queen.

Run by friends Jackie and Rebecca, whose combined experience is more than fifteen years, Missy Beautique prides itself on maintaining an incredibly high, professional standard whilst also creating an ambience that is a joy to spend time in. Offering acrylic and gelish nails, pedicures, manicures, 3D and HD brows, threading and more.

750a Newport Road Cardiff CF3 4FF 029 2079 4446 www.missbeautique.weebly.com Like on Facebook, Follow on Twitter 11

COMPETITION

Win a pair of tickets to the Royal Welsh Spring Festival, 21st/22nd May 2016 Enjoy a great family day in Mid Wales at the 2016 Royal Welsh Spring Festival 21/22 May. Tickets cost £15 for adults and children aged 16 and under go free.

Held at the Showground in Llanelwedd, Builth Wells, the festival is a celebration of smallholding and rural life with an action packed programme of entertainment, have-a-go educational activities, displays and main ring performances, and offers the perfect family day out.

To enter, simply answer the following question: How much is a child’s ticket (16 years and under) to the Spring Festival?

And either post your answer by closing date 10th May, along with your name, address and telephone number, to: Good Life Publishing, The Business Centre, Cardiff House, Cardiff Road, Barry CF63 2AW. Or email hello@goodlifepublishing.co.uk

KIDS GO FREE

“ An action packed programme of entertainment, have-a-go educational activities, displays and main ring performances, offers the perfect family day out.”

01982 553683 requests@rwas.co.uk rwas.wales

e4559 Petersens RWAS Spring Fair Ad 125x91.indd 1

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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

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Cardiff is an up and coming city, which means that, in order to keep up with the times, it has to evolve along with them. Change is inevitable, but when a coffee shop has managed to remain an active and much loved part of the city throughout this change for twenty years, you know that there is something special about it.

LE R ENDEZ-VOUS

Cardiff is an up and coming city, which means that, in order to keep up with the times, it has to evolve along with them. Change is inevitable, but when a coffee shop has managed to remain an active and much loved part of the city throughout this change for twenty years, you know that there is something special about it.

Le Rendez-Vous is as synonymous with Cardiff as the castle and the market.

Ask any inhabitant of the city where it is and they will easily be able to direct you. Starting out as a small kiosk below the escalators in Queens Arcade, the popularity of this great little coffee shop grew so much over the years that owners, Paul and Jo Bainton, had to expand to a larger premises just to satisfy demand. In 2013 they gave the premises a major refit, upgrading the decor as well as the food options available.

Offering a larger, fresher, and more flexible selection of food than many other coffee shops in the city, Le Rendez-Vous freshly prepares their sandwiches and baguettes throughout the day and so, when served, you can be sure they are as fresh as possible.

Paul and Jo say, “All our food is made to order, so the customer can always have what they like, no matter their dietary requirements.”

And what would a coffee shop be without a great cup of coffee?

Throughout their time in Le RendezVous, Paul and Jo have exclusively served Ferrari’s Coffee and are even lucky enough to exhibit Ferrari’s original coffee bean roaster that had been transported all the way from Italy.

So when you’re in the mood for great food and high quality coffee, there is only one place to Rendez-Vous.

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Le Rendez-Vous Coffee 48 Queen’s Arcade, City Centre Cardiff CF10 2BY 029 2023 5599

A new and exciting ladies fashion boutique in the prime location of Wellfield Road Cardiff - A warm welcome and first rate customer service!

Stockists of: Marble, Capri, Pomodoro, Postcard, Tia, Latte, Junge, Mascara Evening Wear Apange, Tivoil, Robell & Ficelle Trousers, Lyman by Frank Lyman, Gaby’s Jewellery Eliza Gracious Jewellery and Peach Handbags

Find us 53 Wellfield Road, Cardiff, CF24 3PA Phone 029 2049 7988 Email boutique53@outlook.com Facebook boutique53 14

Since joining the James and Jenkins family way back in 1991, Charter Vehicle Hire, in addition to being one of the longest running established vehicle hire companies in South Wales, is one of the most reliable operators with 250 rental vehicles available across its three sites.

A HIRE POWER

And if that isn’t enough to convince you, here is why you could consider Charter the next time you need car or van hire.

With bases in Cardiff, Bridgend, and Pontypridd, Charter Vehicle Hire is perfectly located throughout South Wales and offer a comprehensive choice of vehicle hire with cars, vans, and minibuses all available in every shape and size; perfect for everything from single person business trips to large club or association get togethers.

What’s more their rentals can last a day, a week, a month or even a year! And with continental hire also a possibility, this means that, no matter your requirement (even if it’s at home or abroad), Charter will have an option that can be perfectly tailored to your individual needs.

When you are moving home or even office space they also have a range of box vans available with hyrdolic taillifts, perfect for safely moving household goods, appliences, and office equipment.”

With a fleet mainly comprised of Fords and Vauxhalls, although other manufacturers are also available based on certain requirements, you are guaranteed a high quality, reliable vehicle that will be perfectly suited to your needs.

For those who are unable to visit simply give the team a call, or place an order online, and Charter will deliver a van or car directly to you!

So the next time you need vehicle hire, there’s only one place that you should really consider…

“You are guaranteed a high quality, reliable vehicle that will be perfectly suited to your needs.”

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Charter Vehicle Hire Station road, Llandaff North Cardiff CF14 2FF 0800 975 2945 www.chartervehiclehire.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter

Sports Academy USA assist young Athletes, boys and girls aged 16-22, in their search to study through a Sports Scholarship in America. Known for delivering high quality players to colleges all over the US, Sports Academy USA have recently launched their successful business model in Wales. We talked to their Regional Sports Recruitment Consultant James Smith to find out more…

SPORTS ACADEMY USA

James can you tell us what led to Sports Academy USA being set up?

Our Company Director, Lance Stimpson, was studying in America on a football scholarship which is where he saw the demand for student athletes as well as the opportunities for the students. Contacting colleges and coaches, as well as trying to work through the maze of rules imposed by the NCAA is not easy but Lance had already forged numerous connections with university coaches.

Students were already going to America on scholarships, but they weren’t being offered a complete service - so Lance launched Sports Academy USA in 2010, and the business continues to thrive today with both male and female students actively placed on sports scholarships in the USA in a variety of different sports such as football, hockey and athletics.

What led to you launching in Cardiff?

The company is expanding. I’m based in Cardiff which is great as it means that we can offer a more personal service here in Wales. We assess candidates to determine if they have a realistic chance of a Sports scholarship and if they’re suitable to join the Sports Academy USA program. We’re confident that there are scholarship opportunities for any young and talented athlete, male and female.

Clients Ashley Young,Blaine Webber, Sports Academy USA Consultant James Smith and Client Chelsea Wilson - all clients are set to start University in August 2016

You’ve told us about Tyler Blackwood, can you talk us through a more local prodigy?

Yes, striker Ashley Young is local to Cardiff and has played for a number of football clubs, both weekend teams and school teams. Ashley wanted to further his education but was also passionate about continuing with his football. He contacted Sports Academy USA in December 2015 and since then he has had a number of community colleges interested in him.

Ashley has now accepted an offer to study and play for Johnson County Community College in Kansas, where his tuition is being paid for by the college.

Why should a potential sports pro choose Sports Academy USA? Our success rate in placing players/ students in America speaks for itself.

We offer extensive knowledge of the scholarship system, we have a network 16

of over 2000 universities that we are linked with, and actively recruit for, and our students wellbeing is paramount; we ensure they’re placed in a college/ university where they will thrive, and enjoy their 4 years there to the maximum.

Following successful graduation, we maintain regular contact with our students and can offer guidance and support with career choices. For example, former student Tyler Blackwood has signed a contract with QPR after impressing the club during a trial.

What are the benefits? n Placement at a American University n Earn a degree of your choice n Be a part of the collegiate soccer team, representing your University n Offers a platform to become a pro athlete n Cheaper tuition than in the UK n Finish university - Debt Free!

Florida

New York

Texas

Kansas

Sports Academy USA are running a competition to identify up and coming students who wish to develop their career through a Sports Scholarship in America.

The competition is - where 1 talented male, and 1 talented female football players will be given the opportunity to attend NJCAA junior college in one of the following locations; New York, Kansas, Florida, Texas all fully funded.

Applicants must: n Be aged 17-20 (parental consent is required for under 18’s) n Demonstrate strong sporting ability n Have completed their GCSE’s n Have a strong desire to study towards a degree, and continue playing football n Be willing to move to America in August 2017 Assessment days will be held all over Wales in the coming months. For this and for more details please contact us for more information. You can also apply online on our website.

Call: 0115 8373617 Email: info@sportsacademyusa.com Website: www.sportsacademyusa.com

“I’m based in Cardiff which means we can offer a more personal service.”

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James Smith, Sports Academy USA, Consultant

Sports Academy USA 0791 917 6886 www.sportsacademyusa.com j.smith@sportsacademyusa.com Twitter @sausajames

Following on from the huge success of The Pickled Radish in Laleston, Vale Of Glamorgan, owner Nick Collins has opened his second restaurant in Llandaff…

THE PICKLED R ADISH Where did it all begin for you Nick?

I started out in the kitchens of Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons for Raymond Blanc at a young age. This gave me a real insight in to what it takes to achieve perfection. My experience encompasses working in restaurants, gaining 2 AA rosettes in a country house in the Vale, catering for celebrities in a five storey luxury chalet in Courchevel 1850 and cooking on a super yacht in the Antibes. Following all of this I became a development chef for a national contract caterer, however driving around the UK all week took its toll, so I decided to base myself in my home country of Wales and, seeing a gap in the market for high end fine dining, Grate Catering was born.

Looking for a kitchen to base myself in, I found the Laleston Inn and launched The Pickled Radish. Business grew quickly and we realised we needed another kitchen to keep up with demand, so we took on a unit in Caerphilly and built a state-of-the-art production kitchen there. I’m delighted that this has just been awarded five stars from the council, as has our restaurant in Laleston.

Llandaff has always appealed to me because of its quality independent shops and I thought that our style of cuisine would appeal to its residents.

What can we expect from your menu?

The menu changes with the seasons.

Breakfast is busy for both bacon lovers and bacon haters. Our lunch menu (2 courses for £15 and three courses for £18) currently includes lobster pie, Brecon roasted pheasant, pork and prawn plank to name but a few, a selection of steaks, a sharing box of chicken (for two people) and our soup kitchen box, which is a trio of chef ’s home-made soups. 60p from every box sold is given to Huggard helping the homeless charity. Our home-made desserts have to be tried to be believed.

We have steak nights on Wednesdays, and fish nights on Thursdays (alongside our regular menu). Each night diners can choose a steak or fish with two sides, one sauce and a large glass of wine for £20 each.

We also offer a Chef ’s Taster Menu (£60 per person for eight taster courses). Our rustic Sunday lunch costs £18 for two courses and £21 for three courses.

Our afternoon tea is proving hugely popular. This is available from Tuesday to Saturday from 12-5pm. All homemade and scrumptious.

Where do you source your ingredients?

I have instilled the ethos in my team that our food must not only be local, but it has to be excellent and local. There’s no point having poor quality meat just because the butcher is in your village. We are blessed in having amazing suppliers; our butcher, The Farmers Pantry, are one of the best butchers I have ever come across - the meat is always perfect and local to their farm in Llantwit Major.

We aim to use everything Welsh in our business; from our flour which comes from Talygarth Mill to our oil - we only use Welsh pressed rapeseed oil, from Blodyn Aur, which has some amazing health benefits.

“Our food must not only be local, but it has to be excellent and local.”

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Do you have the same philosophy when it comes to your wines and beers?

Absolutely. As well as wines from South Africa, France, Italy, Spain and Chile, we are proud to offer wines from Monmouth and Domaine Du Seuil Blance whose owners came originally from Barry!

We also offer Brecon Gin, Penderyn Whisky, a number of Welsh ales and Ciders, and our very own Radishtails (cocktails) including The Roald Dahl (who was born in Llandaff). We also sell a range of Welsh products including honeycomb and bee pollen.

The Pickled Radish 48 High Street, Llandaff 029 2056 4646 thepickledradish@gratecatering.co.uk www.thepickledradish.com Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter Opening Times Monday to Saturday: Breakfast 8.30am-11am Lunch 11.30am-4.30pm Dinner 6pm-10pm Sunday: Breakfast 8.30am-11am Sunday lunch noon-4pm

How is The Pickled Radish, Llandaff being received?

The feedback so far has been incredible. Our diners love the additional touches such as us teaming up with an award-winning local florist who can supply beautiful bouquets for loved ones which we can take care of and deliver to your table as a surprise. What we offer here is Michelin standard food, Jamie Oliver standard of service in a relaxing and welcoming environment.

Also at Wind Street, Laleston, Bridgend 01656 652946 19

Nina Chivers, of Nina’s Estate Agents, Barry is setting the estate agency world alight. City Life surveys the situation to find out why it is one of the leading agencies of choice.

NINA ESTATE AGENTS

Nina, please remind us when Nina’s Estate Agents was established?

We set up Nina’s Estate Agents back in 2005.

How has business been for you?

Incredible! We celebrated eleven years this January and it’s been a bit of a whirlwind. We have survived a massive recession where, unfortunately, other businesses have fallen by the wayside and emerged stronger than ever.

Tell us about your team I am the Director of the company and a qualified valuer. I have a team of six on the sales side including Rob, Pauline, Diane, Kirsty, Jac and Rhian. On the lettings side there’s Rob (Parker), Katherine, Jacqui and Adam our inhouse financial adviser.

Stop a moment, did you say lettings?

Yes, we opened a lettings side of the business back in 2007. This is in a separate building just a few doors up.

This is a fully managed/tenant find service for landlords, offering free valuations, marketing of their property on our website and all major portals, accompanied viewings, vetting of tenants, preparation of tenancy agreement and property management. We are up-to-date with all of the latest legislations and are an Accredited Agency and Members of the TDS Bond Dispute Scheme.

What makes Nina’s Estate Agency special?

Undoubtedly it’s my 26 years’ experience and our highly trained staff who are bursting with energy and enthusiasm. Our clients tell us that our friendly, family-oriented approach keeps them coming back time after time. As we’ve worked together for so long, we have helped each other through life’s ups and downs.

We appreciate that buying a house can be very daunting. We have clients who have never moved, are moving because of divorce or other personal circumstances and some who’ve moved six times! Ours is a very personal one-toone service. We take our clients through every step of the process. We are also sought out by investors looking to buy properties in the Vale of Glamorgan area.

Knowing that we’re offering great service to our customers is what keeps us developing the business and continually improving what we do.

How do you see the next five years?

We have been asked to reach out into different areas from people living in, or wanting to live in Penarth, Dinas Powys and Sully. We would love to do this and would welcome any interest from sellers, buyers and landlords.

“Our clients tell us that our friendly, family-oriented approach keeps them coming back time after time.”

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On a personal level, do you live locally?

Yes, we do. We also like to support local businesses and eat out and shop locally too.

Do you support any local charities?

We get involved with local charities and fundraising and are proud to be a sponsor of World Featherweight Champion, Lee Selby, and have done so from his unknown fights to his rise to the top. We also sponsor Ysgol St Curig girls football team.

Nina Estate Agents 1 Broad Street, Barry CF62 7AA 01446 736888 enquiries@ninaestateagents.co.uk www.ninaestateagents.co.uk Like on Facebook 21

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For any business selling food, attaining and maintaining a 5 food rating is essential but often frought with difficulty. Help is at hand in the form of food, and health & safety, trading law specialists, Trading Safely have over fifteen years experience in the industry. We find out more from an industry expert, account manager, Mark Lee.

HIGHER STANDARDS

Trading Safely has primarily been working with national household names, assisting with legal requirements. However, due to a recognised demand, and the way Health & Safety affects all types of businesses, Trading Safely are moving with the trends and introducing a simple, yet effective subscription product to benefit small to medium sized businesses.

The forward thinking company is introducing an online client support package to offer guidance to businesses in regards to Health & Safety. The material is easy to follow, use and implement, and allows business owners to be in control of their Health & Safety documents with Trading Safely working behind the scenes to provide support and the most up to date information required.

Trading Safely Consultant Mark Lee is by trade an Environmental Health Officer (EHO) and previously worked for Cardiff Council as a Senior EHO.

Mark is in a position to build excellent relationships with his clients, and provides an exceptional insight into enforcement and compliance requirements; providing advice and support to businesses in Food Safety & Health & Safety.

Trading Safely offer subscriptions to clients, and payment schemes are available for most of their services to allow flexibility. To celebrate the launch of their innovative online platform for clients, Trading Safely are offering a FREE 6 month subscription to our readers (businesses) To take advantage of this generous offer please visit Trading Safely’s website: www.tradingsafelyltd.co.uk and input the code CITYLIFE, following the instructions on the home page.

Want to achieve a 5 star rating in your food business?

The Food Hygiene Rating Scheme (FHRS) helps you choose where to eat out, or shop for food, by telling you how seriously the business takes their food hygiene standards. There are six ratings from 0-5, the top rating of ‘5’ means that the business was found to have ‘very good’ hygiene standards

a 5 hygiene rating is “ Mark provides an exceptional Achieving paramount for food businesses. Not insight into enforcement only does it provide the consumer with confidence, but it will provide the and compliance requirebusiness with peace of mind that all ments; providing advice and safe procedures are being implemented to prevent selling unsafe food. support.”

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Trading Safely can carry out mock inspector visits and predict hygiene ratings from the inspection, provide technical advice & training, and develop bespoke food safety paperwork.

In order to achieve a 5 rating food related businesses must be fully committed to implementing food safety controls, with owners, managers and staff all focussed on food safety. All food handlers require suitable and sufficient training, and planning must be put in place for cross contamination controls throughout the business.

Effective means of cleaning and adequate disinfection are paramount as is cooking food thoroughly, cooling food quickly, and where appropriate document these checks. Storage temperatures and incoming goods must be documented and a documented Food Safety Management System must be in place. Without the correct paperwork, the restaurant/café etc. is heading for a 1 rating, with all the angst that ensues.

TESTIMONIALS

What customers’ say about Trading Safely 5 RATING Jonathan Sanders, Director 29 Park Place “Trading Safely are a must for any business who takes food service seriously. Their guidance and expertise coupled with the personalised service is unlike any other consultancy firm I’ve worked with before. I would highly recommend Mark and his team.”

5 RATING ACROSS 3 PREMISES Owen Morgan, Director at Bar 44 “We take food safety and health & safety incredibly seriously within the Bar 44 group. Time is of the essence for all growing companies, so it is invaluable to be able to work with a third party to guide us and be a sounding board as we evolve and grow as a business.

Mark and Trading Safely are always supportive and professional.”

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Trading Safely Contact Mark Lee 07872 071466 mark.lee@tradingsafelyltd.co.uk www.tradingsafelyltd.co.uk Follow on Twitter @TradingSafely Find Mark Lee on LinkedIn

The St. David’s Hotel and Marine Spa is the only five star hotel in Cardiff and commands a stunning waterfront location overlooking Cardiff Bay. The Marine Spa within the hotel is brimming with accolades having recently been awarded Platinum standard by Thalgo and regularly placed as one of the top five spas in the UK by Conde Nast Traveller - an honour which recognises the spa’s international status.

M ARINE SPA The spa now offers internationally renowned skin-care and aromatherapy experts, DECLÉOR. With its forty years of experience, combined with the immeasurable spa knowledge of the highly trained 24 therapists, the Marine Spa claims to provide guests with a five star aromatic spa experience like no other.

The treatments focus on deep relaxation, which improves the effectiveness of their pioneering products using essential oils; naturalness, sensoriality and effectiveness. DECLÉOR’s products have revolutionised the cosmetics and beauty industry by demonstrating the effectiveness of applying aromatherapy products to the skin. The spa has devised a treatment menu which includes a full range of facials,

body massages using both oils and hot stones and slimming wraps (perfect for getting the body ready for summer holidays).

The spa also offers a range of spa day packages with names like Divine, Sin & Tonic, Me Me Me and Double Decadence. They also have a spa day specifically tailored for men entitled Take It Easy and one for mums-to-be called Mamma Mia - so they’re really not leaving anyone out.

Whether you have an hour to de-stress, or maybe a whole day to completely unwind and relax, the Marine Spa provides the perfect environment where you can immerse yourself in relaxing surroundings and indulge in a little spa therapy right on the edge of Cardiff ’s trendy waterfront.

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The Spa offers an indoor swimming pool, sauna, water corridor leading to swan neck fountains, hydro therapy spa pools, plus a fully equipped gym. And for pampering, the luxury treatment rooms deliver a range of treatments, as well as those everyday must-haves such as manicures, pedicures and tanning.

For home pampering there is a range of indulgent spa and beauty products for sale, plus a wide range of beauty products from high-end beauty companies. If you’re looking for a gift for someone you love, then why not buy a Spa Voucher? The hotel also offers 142 guest bedrooms and dining in the chic Tempus restaurant.

“ The perfect environment where you can immerse yourself in relaxing surroundings.”

TESTIMONIAL

Caroline Hodges of Cardiff shares her experience Until I was invited to review the brand new, tailor-made DECLÉOR Aromatherapy Escape Face Back and Scalp Treatment at The St David’s Hotel & Spa, my experience of spas was fairly limited to saunas and steam rooms. At age 23, I’d never had a ‘proper’ spa treatment so, of course, I jumped at the opportunity to experience one of the new treatments.

It wasn’t just the chance to have a facial at a five star hotel that attracted me.

Although a spa treatment novice, as a skin care fanatic I’d heard fantastic things about DECLÉOR and their unique, pioneering aromatherapy treatments.

As soon as I arrived I was greeted by my therapist, who asked me some questions about my skin to determine which of the balms and treatments my skin type needed.

The treatment began with a shoulder to foot massage, with a concentration on my back to help relieve stress. Of the three available balms, Slim, Sculpt and Relax, I chose the Relax balm, which had a sweet vanilla scent.

My therapist began the facial by cleansing my face of make-up and impurities. She then worked through the facial routine, which has been designed exclusively for The St David’s Hotel, which included exfoliation, Neroli aromessence balm and aroma pressures massage to help push the products into the dermis.

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She then applied a hydrating mask to help replenish my skin while she continued the treatment with a relaxing scalp massage. To finish the treatment, she applied a moisturiser and eye cream. After the treatment, my therapist talked me through the various products she had used and why, and recommended other products that she felt my skin needed.

All in all, top marks for relaxation, I will definitely be working DECLÉOR into my skincare routine.

St. David’s Hotel & Spa Havannah Street Cardiff Wales, CF10 5SD 029 2045 4045 www.thestdavidshotel.com

A unique venue with eye catching art, CF24 Project is a place to eat, drink, party, and get arty. Who could ask for anything more? City Life soaks up the creative ambience with owner Clive Drinkwater.

CF24 PROJECT “ We wanted to build a bar/ restaurant upcycling what we could, wherever possible.”

Clive, can you tell us about your concept for CF24 Project, and what led to its launch?

The model for CF24 was born from travels within the festival and bar scenes around the UK. Years of work running bars or working as build crew at festivals led to an understanding of what can be achieved with what some people consider junk or rubbish. We wanted to build a bar/restaurant upcycling what we could, wherever possible. That’s why it’s called CF24 Project; from concept it was always a project, and we want to continually change bits and pieces within the venue as we grow to meet our changing market.

What events do you run here, and do you hire out your venue for private events?

We’re booked up a year ahead with some very exciting events; anything from small pop up DJ slots to fringe theatre performances in our basement. We will book out the venue as a whole package or, for smaller events, the basement can be booked on its own.

The basement is very versatile we have a projector screen for big sporting events like the six nations, and a full sound system and PA set up for live performances.

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Tell us about the artwork that you showcase, and are these the work of local artists?

Being a Cardiff resident for over fifteen years now I’ve always tried to support local producers of all things cool and exciting. With this in mind, we’ve left two walls in the venue as blank canvases for art or displays. We aim to showcase something new every month, sometimes with a theme but always something exciting.

We understand you now have your alcohol licence - what type of drinks can we enjoy here?

To go with our quirky venue experience and ethos we have tried to develop a drinks menu that fits within the venue.

We offer everything that people come to expect in a bar; soft drinks, beer, ale, wine and cocktails. We’ve added to this with a few rather special beverages for our expanding following of sustainable conscious customers - we have a Welsh brewed IPA by Big Hug that saves a square of rainforest every time you buy a pint, and Elephant Gin that puts a percentage of its profit towards saving endangered elephants.

In fact, for every type of spirit, we have a conscious brand; even our soft drinks

by Karma Cola give proceeds back to the farmers who grow the all-natural ingredients.

It sounds refereshing - can you tell us about the food you serve?

We’ve worked hard to ensure our food is sourced locally where it can be; our fresh meat is purchased from Pring which is just 5 minutes from our venue. This proves very popular in the restaurant, with our Burgers and Pulled Pork being our most popular dishes.

To make sure we cater for all, we aim to offer a vegetarian/vegan alternative to the majority of our dishes, currently our sweet potato and tofu burgers are going down very well.

Any plans for the future?

Yes, we’re looking to extend our license out to our secret garden, ready for the summer where we’ll be looking to offer guest food pop-ups that complement our feel. We also have some exciting events coming up, including the new Cardiff Fringe festival and a craft beer tour around Cardiff starting at CF24 Project with a ‘meet the brewer’. For all upcoming events and plans keep an eye on our Facebook and Twitter updates.

CF24 Project 8-12 Crwys Road, Cardiff CF24 4NJ 029 2115 9063 www.cf24project.com Open Tuesday to Sunday 11am - 11pm Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter 29

Beyond The Border, one of the Worlds leading storytelling festivals returns to St. Donats Castle, near Llantwit Major, from 1-3 July this year, offering not only storytelling but poetry, music singing, theatre, circus, puppets, a kidzone, films and much more.

A BOVE & BEYOND

Beyond the Border is a wonderful and vibrant three-day festival of stories and music from Wales, and across the world, that will take place this year from 1-3 July.

What better place to share tales of myths and legends from across the world than the magical, fairy tale setting of St Donats Castle, overlooking the beautiful Vale of Glamorgan Heritage Coast.

This setting is inspiring with vast, picturesque grounds and stunning sea views. This summer Beyond The Border will deliver a feast of stories and entertainment to audiences from across the globe in and around brightly coloured tents in the grounds of this glorious medieval castle.

Beyond The Border, the leading international festival of storytelling in the UK, was founded at St Donats Arts Centre in 1993.

Over the years the company has successfully focused on creating, encouraging and promoting traditional storytelling for contemporary audiences. In 2016, its 22nd year, Beyond The Border explores a variety of themes; audiences can discover epic storytelling from India, blacksmith stories from around the world, Celtic myth from Wales and Ireland, tales of transformation for adults, fairy tales for children and tales of wonder for all.

Storytelling and music takes place from dawn until dusk across nine different stages with over a hundred performances. This year also offers a rich programme of activities for young people and their families and a flexible timetable allowing audiences the opportunity to see the shows they want. This year, Beyond The Border will offer more stories, more experiences and more fun than ever before - maintaining its famously chilled and joyous atmosphere.

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As well as performances in venues, audiences will be entertained around the festival site with street theatre, story walks and Blacksmith demonstrations.

There are plenty of opportunities for audiences to take part in a variety of workshops for all ages and perform on our open mic stage.

New for 2016 is Kidzone - a dedicated area for performances and activities for young people and their families. The bustling marketplace of arts and crafts stalls, world food stalls and real ale bar are also an essential and much-loved part of the festival experience.

A visit to Beyond the Border 2016 is a fantastic way to take in the glorious coastline of the Vale whilst enjoying new, rich cultural experiences by performers from around the globe.

“ Three days immersed in tales, so many of which offered a real education.”

The Times

“All the gardens of spring and summer were blooming in the tall tales beyond the border.”

Dylan Thomas

TA K E PA R T

Weekend tickets are on sale now!

Day tickets on sale 1st April; with special discounts for residents of CF61 and taster tickets, permitting entry to the main festival site, markets and open air venues.

SAY AND SAVE! Quote CITY LIFE at online box office for 10% discount on adult day tickets.

TO FIND OUT MORE VISIT www.beyondtheborder.com/festival 0800 411 8881 VOLUNTEER Enjoy the atmosphere, make friends and experience Beyond The Border for free by volunteering! Find out more at www.beyondtheborder.com/get-involved SUPPORT US Find out how you can help us develop and celebrate storytelling at www.beyondtheborder.com/supportus

“Beyond the Border aims to bring the world to Wales, and take Wales to the world.”

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Beyond the Border St Donat’s Castle St Donat’s, Near Llantwit Major Vale of Glamorgan CF61 1WF www.beyondtheborder.com/festival 0800 411 8881

Victoria Park based Hoskins Morgan covers the whole of the Cardiff residential property market in both sales and rental property, and business is booming. It’s no wonder - as Brad Hoskins, owner of the independent Estate Agency, has over thirty years’ experience in the property world.

HOT PROPERTY Brad, what makes Hoskins Morgan different from other estate agents?

My, and my whole team’s, experience within the industry allows us to understand our clients’ needs; and that includes buyers, sellers, landlords and tenants.

Scheme’ and are licensed to rent and manage properties. Being independent, as well as offering a complete professional estate agency service, we can also offer a very competitive fee structure whether you’re buying or selling.

We like to get to know our clients in a friendly but professional way understanding their requirements - and we’ll always go the extra mile for them.

We offer a clear cut service from start to finish, keeping clients updated along the way by regular contact.

What are your top recommendations for our readers who want to buy, sell or let properties?

Have clear expectations of what you require from your chosen agent and discuss the agents’ sales or rental achievements in the geographical area of the property in question. Ask about valuation, accompanied viewings and feedback, advertising, legislation, fees to be incurred and, most importantly, make sure that there are no hidden costs.

We’ve recently installed a state of the art IT cloud based estate agency software system that has much improved the marketing of our properties and we have built up great relationships with solicitors, builders and surveyors who we are happy to recommend to our clients. The company are members of the ‘Property Ombudsman’ together with the ‘National Approved Lettings

What’s the housing climate like at the moment?

The residential property market in Cardiff appears to be going from 32

strength to strength concerning both the selling and letting of property.

Interest rates are still low and it would appear that this will carry on for the foreseeable future. Also the major lenders are offering funds to a lot more buyers. There is definitely a feel-good factor in the residential property market that does not appear to be changing.

What do you love about Cardiff?

I’m a born and bred Cardiffian, and proud of it. Cardiff is a vibrant, cosmopolitan place to live in; easy for commuting, shopping, relaxing with all the facilities of the city centre, Cardiff Bay and its surrounding countryside.

There are few cities in the UK that can offer an international airport on its door step, national railway coverage, two superb sports stadia, together with an abundance of shops, eating places, universities and recreation facilities. I believe we are rather spoilt, but I do enjoy making the most of it.

“ We like to get to know our clients in a friendly but professional way - understanding their requirements - and we’ll always go the extra mile for them. We offer a clear cut service from start to finish.”

Do you have any plans for the future of the business?

Hoskins Morgan is going from strength to strength, so we envisage opening another two branches, within Cardiff, certainly within the next twelve months.

So as they say, watch this space.

Hoskins Morgan 498 Cowbridge Road East Victoria Park, Cardiff CF5 1DL 029 2055 3056 www.hoskinsmorgan.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter 33

Family owned, and run, S & M Decorating & Building Supplies on Cowbridge Road East has been supplying quality DIY and home improvement products to the public and trade for twenty one years in Cardiff. City Life popped in to wish founder Selwyn Jones a very happy anniversary - and stopped to chat about how this great independent business came about.

BUILDING BUSINESS

Happy 21st anniversary Selwyn. What led you to set up S & M Builders?

Thank you. Well, initially, I was working as a milkman, and I started doing some decorating work for customers on my round. The idea for the business grew from there really, I spotted a fantastic prime location on the Cowbridge Road and started off selling paint and wallpaper.

The business grew from strength to strength and within a few years with the help and support of my two sons, Spencer and Mitchell, we were able to expand the business selling building materials and plumbing supplies.

Customers refer to us as ‘the one stop shop’.

We understand it’s very much a family run business?

Yes, in fact the business was named after my two sons; Spencer who is our Assistant Manager, and Mitch, who’s our Warehouse Manager. Also, my sister Valmai is our Logistics Manager and my sister-in-law Stephanie is our Credit Controller.

What products do you sell here?

Everything from painting and decorating materials to all timbers, bathroom suites, boilers, radiators, tools, decking, fencing, workwear, specialist paints and much, much more - the list goes on and on.

In fact, if you need it to improve your home and garden, then we probably sell it and, if we don’t, then we should be able to get it for you next day.

What type of customers do you have?

We have a wide range, from general builders and decorators to self-build and DIY enthusiasts.

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We also offer credit account facilities to the trade and businesses.

We’re always interested to find out how members of family run businesses manage a work/life balance?

Actually it helps that this is a family run business - I’m lucky enough to have lots of help from my family so I can take time out to do the things I enjoy, like travelling, live music and shows. Also, I’m looking to do a little less, workwise, as I get older, so the plan is to hand down the business to my sons to carry on the S & M name.

How would you sum up S & M Decorating & Building Supplies?

With the full range of materials required to build or renovate your home and garden, you’ll find everything you need right here.

“ Customers refer to us as ‘the one stop shop.”

S & M Decorating & Building Supplies 456 Cowbridge Road East Cardiff CF5 1BJ 029 2057 7950 www.smbuildingsupplies.co.uk www.smdecoratingsupplies.co.uk Facebook: S M Building Supplies 35

Want to look younger - without surgery? At some point it’s hard to ignore the vivid signs of ageing. With non-surgical aesthetic treatments growing in popularity we popped along to see Chantalle Coombes, Independent Nurse Prescriber, of multi award-winning Sugar Box Clinic in Newport to discuss all things bright and beautiful…

SUGAR BOX CLINIC

Chantalle, when was Sugar Box Clinic set up - and what’s the ethos behind it?

Sugar Box Clinic was set up in September 2010. I started out as a mobile nurse before moving in to our current premises two and a half years ago. Originally I worked for a national chain as their Aesthetic Nurse, followed by a position as Regional Sales Manager for a filler distributor, where I was training other medical professionals.

The idea of Sugar Box Clinic is to offer our clients a warm and friendly environment with the very best minimally invasive treatments possible.

Can you tell us a bit about your training centre, Honey Fizz?

Honey Fizz is located at the same premises as Sugar Box Clinic and was set up to improve quality of standards in the cosmetic industry.

Working as a Sales Manager for a filler distributor I was often called upon to provide assistance for practitioners who were certified to deliver treatments, yet hadn’t had any practical experience.

What should our readers consider when thinking of getting non-surgical facial rejuvenation treatments?

We advise choosing a clinic that has medical professionals that are registered with their professional regulatory bodies. For example, I’m registered with The Nursing and Midwifery Council and the British Association of Cosmetic Nurses, and our Doctors are registered with the General Medical Council and the British Association of Cosmetic Doctors.

“We have guarantees in place for peace of mind.”

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However, you should always investigate that one step further, and ensure that your practitioner knows how to manage complications should they arise.

For our prospective clients we would book them in for a free, no obligation consultation so we can assess their suitability and explain the treatments available.

And how will they know if they’ve chosen a trustworthy clinic?

Check out our reviews, our clients will tell you themselves. With Facebook you can even contact the people who’ve written the reviews to find out for yourself what they really think.

As well as being associated with the regulatory bodies we’ve discussed, our doctors, nurses and beauty therapists are highly qualified professionals.

And we’re proud of our awards; The Welsh Hair & Beauty Cosmetic Clinic of the Year Award 2014, Mumpreneur Gold Website Award 2015 and What Clinic Customer Service Award 2015.

What treatments do you offer at the Sugar Box Clinic?

We’re a very ethical company and pride ourselves on offering a warm and friendly welcome. We guarantee peace of mind and to give our clients a price plan to consider before embarking on any treatment. Hence we guarantee to be on time, as your time is precious and we respect that.

We offer dermal fillers, anti-wrinkle injections, chemical peels, semipermanent make-up, micro-needling, prescription skincare (we’re stockists for Neostrata). In the past year we’ve introduced the 3D Lipo for fat freezing

and inch reduction as well as the Silhouette Soft, which is the only product on the beauty market enabling two joint actions: a lift effect as soon as Silhouette Soft is applied, for an immediate and discreet result - and a regenerative effect, for progressive and natural results. Our clients are thrilled with it.

What plans do you have for the future?

We’re very excited to be opening our second clinic in Risca on July 16th. And to mark this occasion we’re currently running a ‘Refer a Friend’ opportunity for one of our clients to win a weekend trip for two to New York. Our new clinic will specialise in laser hair removal, tattoo removal, colonic irrigation and the weight loss system Hypnotic Hypnoband.

“ Ensure your practitioner knows how to manage complications.”

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Sugar Box Clinic 61a Caerleon Road Newport NP19 7BW 01633 462083 www.sugarboxclinic.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter Opening hours Tuesday & Wednesday: 10am - 5pm Thursday: 10am - 7pm Saturday: by special appointment

With a wealth of kitchen design experience and surveying, José and Jason, and their dedicated team of kitchen designers at Jam Kitchens, believe they are bringing a new level of customer service to the kitchen industry across the UK.

JAM ON IT

What do you think makes Jam different from other kitchen companies?

The answer is simple and can be summed up in three words: Service, experience and affordability. Customers often come to us after going to large chains that employ part-time staff as kitchen designers. The difference at Jam is kitchens are our life, they are our passion, and we concentrate on what the customer wants from their new kitchen until they are completely happy.

As an independent business we can also source exactly what you want, we are not tied into one supplier – so, if a customer wants something specific, we can source it.

What is on-trend in the kitchen world right now?

Large open spaces, entertaining, tall built-in units, central islands, handless units, we can go on and on. The main changes we have noticed in recent years is not so much the type of kitchens that customers are buying, it’s more about the function of the kitchen within the home.

Years ago, you had a couple of units and a cooker in a very small room, and that was your kitchen. Now it’s about preparing food in an area where the family can communicate, see each other and catch up on the day’s events whilst getting ready to entertain family and friends.

“ Kitchens are our life, they are our passion.”

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The difficult times we have all been through with the recession have made us re-think how we live and prioritise things differently, so entertaining within our own home is becoming more important. We are finding that customers are extending their properties and having larger kitchens within a functional living space, often bringing the garden into the kitchen with stunning bi-fold doors.

What advice would you give readers who may be planning on updating their kitchen?

Think about how you want to use the space - what you want to gain from it, and look around for ideas in magazines and on the internet.

Also setting a realistic budget is important too.

I would say the most important thing would be to put your trust in a kitchen company who has a proven track record, don’t be afraid to ask to see examples of their work. At Jam Kitchens we take the time to focus our efforts on achieving exactly what you want, and use our experience to bring your dream kitchen to life.

And last but not least, do you have any plans for the future of the business?

Yes, within the next two years we aim to open a second, larger showroom in Cardiff and, as Jam continues to become a household name, we will be looking to develop a further two showrooms across the South West, allowing us spread the name of Jam Kitchens.

This will allow us to further develop our brand and also we’d like to expand into supplying bedrooms and bathroom furniture.

We will continue to provide a superb service to our customers and, in time, hopefully when your friends and family ask where you bought your kitchen, you’ll all be saying Jam. CUSTOMER TESTIMONIAL “Nothing was a problem - fantastic customer service throughout the whole process, Jam Kitchens went the extra mile throughout and I highly recommend them.”

“ We bring your dream kitchen to life.”

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Jam Kitchens 397 Cowbridge Road East Cardiff CF5 1JG 029 2151 0021 www.jamkitchens.co.uk Follow on Facebook and Twitter

Put your mind at rest with expert breast screening.

Women of all ages can be affected by breast disease, but not all breast disease can be cancer. We would advise every woman to check her breasts regularly so that any changes, however small, can be detected and acted upon immediately.

If you feel any abnormality in your breasts, it will be reassuring to know that our ‘Rapid Access Breast Care Clinic’ is available to you as a private patient at Nuffield Health Cardiff & Vale Hospitals.

With specialist state-of-the-art imaging equipment situated at our Cardiff Bay Hospital, you will receive a clinical examination, a mammogram and ultrasound from our experienced oncoplastic surgeon and radiologist, followed by a detailed explanation of your results made available to you on the same day. Our ‘Rapid Access Breast Clinic’ service is open twice weekly, and a private consultation costs £400.

For real peace of mind call us to make an appointment today.

02920 836 714

nuffieldcardiffandvale.com

@nuffieldvale

Nuffield Health Cardiff & Vale Hospitals

CARDIFF & VALE HOSPITALS Hospitals + Health Checks + Physio + Gyms

Madame Wax is Cardiff ’s only award-winning specialist waxing salon.

We chatted with the salon’s founder and Welsh Therapist of the Year, Adele Sweet, to find out why she thinks you could be missing out.

WAXOLOGISTS IN THE CITY ADELE The original Madame Wax and reigning Welsh Therapist of the Year LINDSEY Our deputy waxologist is well known for her fab, bubbly banter ROBYN A highly skilled waxer who was a treasure to find SHELDON A calming influence in the salon with a precision to detail

Why do you think women should wax?

The thing with a wax is once you’ve experienced the results; you’ll hate shaving! A top-notch, on-trend wax leaves you feeling sumptuously smooth.

With hair removed from the root, there’s no annoying stubble. Best of all you can remain hair free for up to three weeks.

What’s your most popular treatment?

Most definitely intimate waxes - we offer “the best Brazilians in Cardiff ”. Clients can choose between seven variations, but the Dita – our signature Hollywood wax (which takes everything off) - is by far the most requested.

Doesn’t waxing hurt?

I’d be lying if I said a wax was entirely painless. After all, this treatment removes hair from the root, so you’re going to feel something. But that’s where your waxologist can make all the difference. If you’re relaxed you’ll feel less discomfort. It’s why we’re so focused on making sure clients feel comfortable on the treatment couch.

Technique and skill also matter. We do nothing but wax so there’s no inexperienced fumbling, which can lead to pain. Instead we promise all the “ooh” without the “ouch!”

“ We offer “the best Brazilians in Cardiff.”

Do clients ever feel embarrassed when they come for treatment?

I know there are lots of people who secretly want a wax, but never book a treatment. And I’m sure embarrassment is one of the reasons.

We do have plenty of first-timers at the salon and as with any new experience, it’s only natural to feel a little unsure.

For example, I know some clients feel a little embarrassed about removing items of clothing, but we soon put these fears to rest with our Madame Wax banter.

Unless clients prefer silence, we’ll chat with them on the treatment couch - it’s a good distraction!

How can readers book their first wax?

It’s easy. Simply call the salon and we’ll get you booked in. And if you’re not quite ready to book a treatment just give us a call. Have a chat with one of the team about your concerns (I promise we’ve heard it all and seen it all before). You can even pop into the salon if you prefer and have a quick peek at the treatment rooms.

See if you like the vibe and then make your decision. There will be no pressure from us. Remember, you don’t have to dive in at the deep end and book a Hollywood, straight up. A classic bikini wax, for example, is a good choice for a first treatment.

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Whether you decide to call or visit in person, please don’t leave it! If you’re not waxing, I promise that you are missing out. So take that first step to getting the silky soft skin you secretly want and give us a call today on 029 2190 0232. You won’t regret it!

Here’s a special offer for our City Life readers… If you’ve not enjoyed a Madame Wax before, simply visit www.bestwaxincardiff.co.uk You can get more information and request a 20% discount voucher off your first wax. (Offer expires 31st May 2016).

What our clients say...

Rhian

“I've been with Madame Wax 3 years now, I work locally in town and the lunchtime slots are a god send. All the staff are friendly, make you feel comfortable and it's lovely and clean.”

Nadine

“Such incredible service and their attention to detail is amazing.”

Madame Wax 26/27 St Mary Street, Cardiff CF10 1AB 029 2190 0232 www.madamewax.com Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter

Leisure Club Manager Laurence Gibson invited us to take a tour of the newly refurbished facilities at the Marriott Leisure Club. We didn’t need to be asked twice…

FIT FOR L IFE

Laurence, the gym looks terrific. Can you tell us what your refurbishment consists of?

Thank you. We have brand new, topof-the-range, Life Fitness equipment loaded with amazing technology that allows you to browse the internet, check social media and watch TV (all on 19 inch screens) while you work out.

Another brilliant function is you can walk, run or ride through various courses. For example, you can make your workout more interesting by running across the Golden Gate bridge in San Francisco. If you download the LFconnect app, and enable your Bluetooth, the machines will recognise you and store your workouts, enabling you to track your workout results to meet your fitness goals.

Which of your new machines are proving to be most popular?

The new power mill is very much on trend; it’s a fantastic fat burner, allowing for a great way to burn calories quickly. The new spin bikes are visually stunning, and they’re also a huge hit with our members.

We understand that you introduced new classes for your members recently…

Yes, our new classes showcase our instructors’ fitness knowledge and have been very well received. We’re offering kettlebell, boxercise and spin classes initially. A real benefit of our classes is the class size; we’re restricting classes to five members maximum, meaning that we can offer a very personalised fitness experience.

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The classes are taking place at various times during the day, and are tailored for all ages and abilities.

Do you offer personal training services?

We have five personal trainers on site who all have unique specialist areas of expertise; these include strength, muscle gain, weight loss, and stamina training. Prices vary based on the number of sessions booked, and personal requirements.

Do you have parking facilities here?

Yes we offer four hours free parking to all members using our leisure facilities for a minimum of thirty minutes. Ideal for meeting a friend for a drink or bite to eat after a workout, or maybe to pick up some shopping while in town.

When is an ideal time to train, and what advice do you have on sticking to a fitness plan?

Early morning training is a fantastic way to start your metabolism burning calories for the whole day. And training with a partner is a great way to keep each other on track.

What tips do you have for our readers who would like to see fast results?

Set smart goals, and break targets into small manageable chunks. Best results are achieved when diet is considered with equal importance to the actual training.

“Keep fit, stay active, meet friends or simply relax.”

The Marriott Leisure Centre strives to be one of the top fitness providers in Cardiff, and with their great range of facilities and their fully qualified staff we’d say they’ve got it pretty spot on.

Why not take a look for yourself; along with the facilities we’ve discussed with Laurence you can also enjoy their heated indoor swimming pool, steam room, sauna and jacuzzi.

SPECIAL CITY LIFE OFFER Marriott Leisure Club has a great offer for CityLife readers. Show a copy of this article (hard copy or a photo taken with your phone) when joining and you will receive half price off the first month’s membership, and you will pay no joining fee at all.

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Marriott Leisure Club Marriott Hotel, 1 Mill Lane Cardiff CF10 1EZ www.marriottleisure.co.uk Twitter: @CardifLCC Facebook: Cardiff Marriott Leisure Club Instagram: MarriottLCC

There are many reasons why someone may want to lose weight; such as a wedding, a beach holiday or, with summer fast approaching, getting into that bikini.

WEIGHT LOSS THAT WORKS!

At The Weight Care Centre, Cardiff, Dr. Essam ElFayoumy has had many successes 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.

What made you want to go The Weight Care Centre?

I had been very overweight for a number of years and had done the usual weightwatchers and slimming world 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 that 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 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 on a weekly basis either a yoga or Pilates session.

How did you find Dr. Essam ElFayoumy?

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. He asked about my general health and lifestyle, only then did he suggest the diet, especially after confessing 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.

Have you seen much improvement?

The biggest improvement is the chance in my health status, when I started in the 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 have the changes made a change to you and your lifestyle?

My food shopping on the whole has improved. 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.

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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. I have much more self-confidence now and I know that it is related to my body image.

Would you be happy to recommend the centre to friends, family and colleagues?

I would and have recommended the centre to friends and colleagues, one of which has joined recently and is currently doing very well and enjoying the experience. The cost of the program is probably less than I have paid over the years in various sliming clubs and at least this time I have a positive outcome already in comparison to the last 10 years or so.

Weight Care Centre 189 Cathedral Road, Cardiff CF11 9PN 0292 0255 258 info@weightcarecentre.com www.weightcarecentre.com

We all know celebrities have more than a few tricks up their sleeves for looking party-ready and picture-perfect. But aside from the little plastic surgery tweaks, fillers and Botox, one of the biggest celebrity beauty secrets is the oxygen facial. At the Inspire Health Centre (part of Weight Care Management Centre), owner Dr. Essam El Fayoumy is proud to offer this innovative treatment to his cilents.

OXYGEN CELLAVIE Celebrities love these treatments because they make skin look more plumped-up and glowing before a performance or red carpet appearance. So with party season coming up, you could follow suit with an oxygen facial to get that same effect.

What causes our skin to age?

Skin ageing is caused by intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Intrinsic factors due to passage of time (chronological aging) as a result of formation of toxic molecules generated during normal cellular metabolism. Clinical manifestations of aged skin causes dryness, laxity, slackness, wrinkles, skin sagging and dark circles and pigmentation.

Why is Oxygen important to the skin?

Healthy skin is part of our wellbeing strategy and goes hand in hand with diet, nutrition and exercise. Oxygen is a key ingredient for human life. It is a vital ingredient for human metabolism.

Oxygen is an essential material for human survival.

What is Oxygen Cellavie therapy?

Our treatment enables oxygen together with active nutrients to pass through the natural gaps between the skin cells, improving the cells performance and external circulations. This stimulates the process of cell regeneration which ultimately makes skin look and feel younger.

So does the oxygen facial actually work?

Well Madonna, Kim Kardashian, Justin Timberlake, Victoria Beckham and Jessica Biel swear by them. Why not book a consultation with the Inspire Health Centre and try it for yourself?

What areas can the treatment cover?

It can be used on all parts of the body but mainly face and neck.

Is it safe?

Absolutely. The ingredients we use are botanically based, pure, effective and safe.

Who will be administering the treatment?

We are delighted to introduce our newest addition to our team, Aukse.

She is a Level 3 beauty therapist and proficient in the use of the equipment.

“Oxygen is a key ingredient for human life. It is a vital ingredient for human metabolism.�

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Inspire Health Centre 189 Cathedral Road, Cardiff CF11 9PN 0292 0255 258 info@weightcarecentre.com www.weightcarecentre.com

One of the most serious problems affecting office workers these days, is the damage that sitting in the same position for extended periods can do to the body. Merely sitting in an ill-suited chair can cause major problems to your neck, back, and shoulders that could stay with you for the rest of your life.

Thankfully Workzone Therapies have a solution.

BACK TO BASICS

Run by Megan Bearpark, Workzone Therapies aims to alleviate the problems that an office environment can have on an individual. They do this by providing expert massage treatments that can reduce the painful symptoms and put you on the correct path to physical and psychological wellbeing.

More importantly (and conveniently), Workzone Therapies can bring their treatments to you, right into the office space. This means that employers and employees alike that benefit from the incredible work Megan provides without having to sacrifice valuable work hours. Workzone Therapies have a range of treatment packages available, all of which can be tailored to the needs of the individual business and can be performed in a dedicated space or simply at your desk when you have a few minutes free time.

So far, companies such as Legal & General, British Gas, and the BBC have all benefitted from Megan’s services.

Thanks to her it is possible to see improved focus and concentration, increased energy levels, and improved immune systems (that leads to less sick days) amongst all of the staff who receive the expert massages. If you would like a bit more privacy then Workzone Therapies also offer private mobile treatments, so you can take full advantage of their services from the comfort of your home.

In addition to providing massages that help combat muscle fatigue, Workzone Therapies also provide vocal massage treatments. By focusing on the area of muscles associated with respiration these massages are the perfect treatment for professionals such as athletes and singers, as well as a great form of holistic treatment for people who present with anxiety and other breathing related problems.

“ Workzone Therapies will come to your office to perform their treatments.�

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Having recently started an accelerated business program as well as working alongside Simply Do Ideas - a platform that aids businesses by allowing them the opportunities needed to make their ideas happen - Megan and Workzone Therapies are working incredibly hard to ensure that their business is doing everything it can to provide its clients with the very best treatments and care.

Workzone Therapies 07951 235 357 www.workzonetherapies.co.uk Facebook Work Zone Therapies / Total Equilibrium Twitter Workzonethers

Found on Whitchurch Road in Cardiff, LaserWise is a high end skin and beauty clinic that uses stateof-the-art cutting edge lasers, and is registered with the Healthcare Inspectorate Wales (HIW) to ensure that you receive the very best treatments and care.

Before

After

Before

After

GET L ASERWISE As specialists in aesthetic laser treatments, advanced skin care, semi-permanent make up and general beauty, LaserWise really do keep their promise when it comes to providing top quality treatments that provide optimum results.

The most popular treatments are hair and tattoo removal; both of which the talented staff excel at. With tattoos becoming more popular and accepted in everyday life, the need for laser treatment has increased dramatically.

People can now remove old unwanted tattoos or have them faded, redesigned and covered up. To aid with this, owner Suzanne works alongside some of Cardiff ’s most skilled tattoo studios to help clients recreate their new and improved tattoos.

Laser hair removal has always been popular with women and now, even more so with men. “Whether simply for aesthetic reasons, or for something more personal such as transgender transitioning, here at LaserWise we achieve remarkable results and, thanks to our up-to-date technology, can seriously help to remove unwanted facial and body hair,� says Suzanne.

LaserWise can also help when skin and muscle tone begins to sag and droop. Using their brand new CACI Non-Surgical Facial & Body toning treatment, they can reverse the signs of ageing. This equipment offers the most up-to-date technology and, by using a Tsunami micro-current, can help to tone, lift and re-educate the facial and body muscles back to their original position. Best of all, we are assured, the treatments are pain-free with results that can be noticed instantly.

So if you are considering Laser, Skin or Beauty treatments now, or in the future, remember to make the wise choice LaserWise.

LaserWise tell us that many celebrities such as Jennifer Lopez, Jennifer Aniston, Barbara Windsor and many more have used and loved this treatment.

LaserWise now also offer: n Microdermabrasion This gives your skin a deep exfoliation with little or no downtime n The Wrinkle Comb Produces Sodium Potassium under the skin plumping out any fine lines or wrinkles n Red & Blue LED Light therapy This stimulates collagen and elastin and soothes and calms the skin also clearing up any congestion.

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LaserWise 202 Whitchurch Road Cardiff CF14 3NB 029 2132 2424 www.laserwiseclinic.co.uk Like on Facebook, Follow on Twitter

Set up in 1994, Franco’s original barber shop started with one chair and a cracked mirror.

Fast forward to today and the Whitchurch Road based Capello Barbers is barely recognisable.

Franco’s son, London School of Barbering trained Alessandro, has put his mark on the gentleman’s barbers since joining a year ago and business is booming.

A CUT A BOVE

Following a complete re-branding to Capello Barbers, the shop has also undergone an impressive refurbishment and now has an ‘old school - modern feel’ with a twist. The family’s love of boxing is evident throughout the shop, as are their Sicilian/Italian roots (including rather good Italian coffee.)

Further embracing the growth in the modern barbers’ culture, Capello’s has created a slogan of ‘bespoke cuts and shaves’. This involves tailoring every haircut to each individual client - there’s nothing standard going on here. Also their ‘do it yourself at home’ approach is very much emphasised.

Who doesn’t know the feeling of getting a great cut, coming out feeling amazing and then going back home unable to recreate what their barber has done?

For this, the creative team at Capello’s offer a brief styling tutorial following each cut, to show their client how easy it is to style their hair the way the professionals have. They also sell the exemplary brushes and products that they use in the salon.

As a fundamental part of the male grooming tradition, Capello’s offers the ultimate barbershop service: the traditional wet shave. Their professional judgement comes into play as they assess skin type, beard direction and more. Long considered the way to achieve the finest shave, their wet shave service consists of a skin cleanse to clean the face and a hot towel to open the pores, followed by their top notch wet shave, and completed by a process to close the pores and a cold towel.

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We can testify to this being a shave like never before, and a truly relaxing experience. Considering the average man will shave upwards of ten thousand times during the course of his life, an expert shave should be on your list of must haves in order to look, and feel, your neat and tidy best.

For the more hirsute among us, Capello’s offer beard shape-up and trims - they proudly encourage you look after them as much as they do a head of hair.

Let’s face it, beards are back - so if you’re going to wear it, wear it with style.

“Capello’s is the only place I would consider going to get my haircut. A quick and friendly service leaving me with a perfect cut.

Never been disappointed.”

To complete the changes, Capello’s Barbers has new opening hours, with a very welcome two late nights a week (Thursday and Friday until 7pm).

20% student discount with valid student card (except for wet shaves).

So if you’re looking for a great, competitively priced, haircut; a warm friendly atmosphere, a pretty darn good Italian coffee, and of course the obligatory banter, go and don’t forget to tell them that City Life gave you the heads up!

CAPELLO BARBERS What’s on offer at Capello’s n Cut £12.50 n Clipper Cut £10 n Young Gent (under 12) £8 n Young Gent (under 16) £10 n Senior Gent (over 65) £10 n Capello Wet Shave £15 n Re-style (from very long to short, with a complimentary wash) £18 n Beard ‘Trim’ £2.50 n Beard ‘Restyle’ £5

Capello Barbers 4 Whitchurch Road, Cardiff CF14 3LW 029 2034 4601 www.capellobarbers.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter 49

When considering tattoo removal, make sure that you visit medical professionals such as the talented team at Wales Laser Clinic.

WALES L ASER CLINIC

With the growing popularity and acceptance of tattoos as an art form in modern society, an increasing number of ‘specialist’ clinics have opened claiming to be able to help with tattoo removal. However, many of these clinics are often run by people with no medical qualifications and can, ultimately, cause lasting damage rather than the desired effect of removal.

Wales Laser Clinic is keen to stress it is not one of these places; WLC offers the very latest techniques performed by qualified medical personnel. Every single one of their treatments which, in addition to tattoo removal, includes botox treatments, dermal fillers, and facial rejuvenation are carried out by experienced doctors only.

Having opened in the second half of 2015, Wales Laser Clinic has already seen a surge in popularity thanks to the transformational treatments that they provide, already becoming fully booked for tattoo removal for the next several weeks.

At the helm of this new venture is Alun Davies, a GP with over eight years’ worth of experience in cosmetic medicine.

For a quote simply email a picture of the tattoo that you would like removed to reception@waleslaserclinic.com and they will quickly get back to you with a price.

Alun says, “As well as the doctor led experience within our centre, I believe Wales Laser Clinic currently houses the very best technology available for tattoo removal. Something that, in addition to introducing new clients to laser treatment, has also brought in people who have visited other laser clinics and have been unhappy with the results there. This welcome surge of new clients and referrals from other clinics has, I believe, made Wales Laser Clinic the ‘go to’ place for tattoo removal.”

In the several months that they have been open Wales Laser Clinic has already become a prime example of how tattoo removal (and other complementary services) should be performed. Already the clinic is thinking of expanding its personnel in order to be satisfy the demand from its constantly growing list of clients.

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Wales Laser Clinic 23 Charles Street, Newport NP20 1JT 01633 214674 reception@waleslaserclinic.com www.waleslaserclinic.com Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter

One of Cardiff ’s long-standing indie favourites, Servini’s, has had a makeover and it’s looking amazingly good. We stopped by to chat with new owner Matt Barker.

SERVINI’S “Top rate in every aspect, food, service and quality.”

Matt, you took over Servini’s last summer; can you tell us a bit about what led to this?

My background is in hospitality, I have eighteen years’ experience working for brands such as Malmaison, Hotel du Vin and Mitchell and Butler’s working in high end boutique hotels, luxury five star independent hotels and gastro pubs, and high end steak houses.

My wife and I have just had our first child and I was looking for something that could give me a better work life balance and the opportunity to do my own thing. The previous owner, Mel, was looking to retire, and I saw a great opportunity to take over a wellestablished business with lots of potential.

You’ve made some major changes since taking over the business, can you tell us about those?

I felt it was in need of updating in terms of style and décor, and so this was my chance to put my mark on it. Major is the word; we’ve put in a new floor, new celling, new walls, we have a brand new kitchen, a new guest toilet, and we’ve reworked the available space to provide more comfortable seating for guests both inside and out.

Can you tell us about your menu?

We offer great value, home-cooked food seven days a week. Our most popular items are our all day breakfasts, and the latest addition to the menu - our traditional Sunday roasts which are proving very popular. We offer gluten free and vegetarian dishes so there’s something 52

for everyone. We make our own cakes, including our famous Welsh cakes which are baked daily. Also, we’re fully licensed; we offer a good selection of bottled beers, cider, wines and cocktails, as well as some home-made soft drinks, teas and coffees. Our full menu can be found on our website www.serviniscardiff.co.uk We’ve heard about Servini’s legendary Welsh Cakes - is it correct that you bake different flavours?

Yes, since taking over we’ve added some more flavours to our original cherry Welsh cakes, we now bake them with currants, and jam - they all sell very well, and very quickly! The smell of the Welsh cakes baking is fantastic and, with our open kitchen, customers love to look and see if they can figure out our secret recipe.

“Love this place. Went there today and found that it was under new ownership and it turns out it’s even better.”

Please tell us about your popular call and collect service...

Absolutely, this has always been a key part of the business and we want to keep it as simple as possible for our customers; so give us a call, place your order and let us know when you want to pick your order up and we’ll do the rest. Our menu has some very competitively priced take away offers a bacon or sausage roll for £3; and for lunch, any Ciabatta, packet of crisps and a can of drink for £5. Of course any orders can be customised to suit.

We must confess our love of coffee, what brand do you use?

As coffee lovers ourselves we wanted a high quality coffee, without the high import price tag. We were very fortunate to find Verde coffee, a family run local business offering their own roasted beans.

Do you have any plans for the future?

We would like to increase our hours by opening later in the evenings, but this is something for a little further down the line. At the moment Sundays are our big focus but watch this space as they say.

So, go and check out the refurbishment (and the Sunday roasts and Welsh cakes) and remember to tell Matt and his team that we sent you.

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And, if you’re looking for something to do with the children during the Easter holidays, a little bird tells us there’ll be plenty of treats in store at Servini’s, including decorating your own gingerbread man, home-baked hot cross buns and, of course, lots of chocolate.

Servini’s Cafe 6-10 Wyndham Arcade, Cardiff CF10 1FJ www.serviniscardiff.co.uk Facebook Servini’s cafe Twitter @servinis_CF10 Opening Hours Monday to Friday 8am - 4pm Saturday 8am - 6pm Sunday 9am - 5pm

Treasured Beauty Bangle £30 Beautifully intricate feather scroll bangle Available online at www.glitzysecrets.com

Ferrari Man in Red 50ml EDT/£39.00, 100ml EDT/£52.00 Available exclusively at House of Fraser and Online

Favourite T HINGS...

MY

New i - groom Limited Edition RRP £19.50 New CID’s signature and best-selling product.

Loved Up Folk Woven Short Sleeve Geo Print Pyjamas £43.50 The softest fabrics ensuring a great night’s sleep.

Available online at www.cyberjammies.co.uk

Ted Baker Sugar Sweet Collection Body spray £7, 150ml, Hand cream £8, 125ml, Lip balm £4, 8g.

Available exclusively at Boots and www.boots.com

New i – pout RRP £17.00 Long-lasting pout perfectors. 12 new shades Available online at www.newcidcosmetics.com

New i – smoulder RRP £18.50 Expert eyes has never been easier.

Orla Kiely Sunset Flora Print Travel Wash Bag Collection Perfect for an overnight or weekend stay. Cosmetics Bag £20 Medium Wash Bag £28 Large Hanging Wash Bag £34.

Available at John Lewis.

Jo Malone London The Herb Garden 5 x 9ml £70 A captivating and delectable collection.

Available in department stores on online at www.jomalone.co.uk

Tom Ford Neroli Portofino Acqua Think cool breezes, sparkling waters and lush foliage of Portofino. EDT 50ML - £95 RRP Available from Department Stores.

Coffee is one of those things that, I’m sure you’ll agree, makes the world go around. An almost vital ingredient in our modern day lives. As I write this, I am currently on my second cup of the day and the hour hasn’t even reached double digits yet…

UNCOMMON GROUND

It’s almost impossible to comprehend why many of us choose such mass produced, lacklustre examples of such an essential element, especially when incredibly good coffee houses exist in our capital. Places like Uncommon Ground in the beautiful Royal Arcade.

Created by brothers Ian and Paul, who wanted to offer Cardiff something different to the branded coffee shops that currently crowd the city. How they have achieved this is superbly simple; by creating a speciality coffee that is unique to them, so you’re not going to find it diluted and pumped out of every corner of the high street.

Their unique blend was developed after a lot of research and taste-testing and, after much deliberation and help from their green coffee supplier, the brothers settled on a blend of Brazilian, Colombian and Indonesian Sumatran that, once separately roasted, create a flavour more favorable to the palate than bitter examples found elsewhere.

But it’s not just incredible coffee that can be found within Uncommon Ground. With a wide range of loose leaf teas and soft drinks available, plus a food menu that has been specifically designed to complement what the brothers do best, including: home baked goods, freshly prepared brunch items (porridge, toast, pastries) breakfast burritos, paninis, wraps, and satisfying soups.

So with all this incredible ‘stuff ’ going on right now you would think the Ian and Paul would stop there, but no, they have big plans on the horizon. Opening up their very own roastery is their next step, something that will allow them to cope with the already high demand they have for their coffee, as well as offer them further flexibility when it comes to special guest coffees that can be showcased.

Coffee subscriptions have also been discussed, where you can have freshly ground roasted coffee delivered to your door - they’re also thinking about offering training courses for coffee 56

roasting, cupping/ tasting, and also barista training.

With all of these incredible plans it looks like the brothers are going to have to drink a steady supply of their own creation - it is lucky then that they believe their coffee is second to none.

Uncommon Ground 10 - 12 Royal Arcade, Cardiff CF10 1AE www.uncommon-ground.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter Open seven days a week Monday - Saturday 7.30am - 6.30pm Sunday 10am - 5.30pm

@ TRAWLER FISH BAR

WE ARE NOW OFFERING A GLUTEN FREE MENU SIX EVENING A WEEK! KEEP IN TOUCH FOR UPDATES AND INFO. We are proud to serve the finest, freshest gourmet fish and chips to our local community, with locally sourced produce and ethically sourced fish wherever possible.

Whether your preference is the ‘classic’ cod and chips with mushy peas or one of our gourmet fish boxes that includes our signature ‘cracked black pepper calamari’ or maybe a beautifully prepared piece of Seabass, we are here to cater for your every fishy desire. As well as our extensive everyday menu we also have our weekly specials board to

Mon:

11:30am - 2.00pm, 4:30 - 10.00pm

Tue:

11:30am - 2.00pm, 4:30 - 10.00pm

Weds: 11:30am - 2.00pm, 4:30 - 10.00pm Thurs: 11:30am - 2.00pm, 4:30 - 10.00pm Fri:

11:30am - 2.00pm, 4:30 - 10.00pm

Sat:

11:30am - 2.00pm, 4:30 - 10.00pm

Sun:

Closed

4:30 - 10.00pm

Llantrisant Road Retail Park, Llantrisant Rd, Cardiff, CF5 2BF

include the very popular king prawn box, which you can choose to either take away or eat in at one of our seated booths at no extra cost.

All our food is cooked fresh to order by our friendly, efficient staff while you wait or if you’d prefer to jump the queue call in advance to have your hot, fresh food ready when you arrive.

For the latest fishy updates and news like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter and Instagram.

Like us on Facebook @trawlerfishbar @trawlerfishbar T: 029 2056 8333 www.poshfishandchip.co.uk

After leaving University Kelly Thomas enjoyed a career in retail but, after having her two boys, Kelly felt she needed to find something new and exciting to get her teeth into - then along came...

COOK! Why Cook?

Having shopped in Cook on Wellfield Road, Cardiff, for several years I fell in love with the food. So when I heard the shop was for sale it felt like an ideal opportunity to get involved with something I truly believed in.

What does Cook offer?

Quite simply we offer quality meals which look and taste delicious, but which transfer from your freezer straight into the microwave or oven.

What do you bring to Cook?

Our team are proud to offer a service which aims to be above and beyond what you might expect. We like to get to know our customers and can offer help with deliveries, recommend new dishes and often offer samples of some of the food we sell.

Who are Cook’s customers?

Cook offer meals suitable for everyone, vegetarians, gluten free, children’s meals and baby food. We provide meals in one, two and four portions so you can mix and match if you happen to be feeding more than four people. Some of our best sellers in Cardiff are Moroccan Lamb Tagine, Fisherman’s Pie, Indonesian Vegetable Curry, Chicken Dijon and many more.

We can cater for special nights in with Confit of Duck with a Juniper Berry Sauce, Beef Wellingtons and Sea Bass with Asparagus Tips with Linguine in a Lobster and Saffron Bisque. We also provide food suitable for parties and barbeques. We also have a wonderful array of desserts such as Chocolate and Truffle Torte, White Chocolate and Raspberry Cheesecake, Passion Fruit Tart. We also have a range of cakes and puddings such as Carrot Cake, Victoria Sponge, Chocolate Cake and a variety of tray bakes bread butter pudding.

What do you think sets you apart?

We find as soon as customers taste the food they want to try more as they realise how good the meals taste.

I have a wonderful team, who make customers feel valued and there is always a happy atmosphere in the shop. We try to go out of our way to help our customers so, for example, we are happy to defrost puddings before collection, if requested.

Do you deliver?

Yes, you can either go on-line at www.cookfood.net or phone the shop.

Spend over £30 and your delivery will be free if you live in Roath, Penylan, LLanedeyrn and Cyncoed. We also deliver outside these areas, but orders then have to be over £50 in value for delivery to be free.

“ Our team are proud to offer a service which aims to be above and beyond what you might expect.”

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COOK Cardiff 18 Wellfield Road, Cardiff CF24 3PB 029 2049 4166 Opening Hours Mon, Weds Fri, Sat: 9.30am - 6pm Thurs: 9.30 - 7pm Sun: 11am - 4pm

Actor and writer Boyd Clack is a big fan of Cook. “I live locally and having Cook nearby is convenient and the choice is excellent,” says Boyd.

When choosing the right flooring for your home, how do you know which company to choose? We’ve made your life easier by introducing you to a carpet and flooring company which has been covering the floors of many a Cardiff home since 1979. We met with Victoria Stedman of Leeway Carpets and Flooring Co to find out more.

LEEWAY CARPETS

A ND FLOORING

Who are the owners of the business Victoria?

The directors of the company are John G W Davies, Lynne Davies and Luke Stoneman. Leeway Carpets was formed in 1979 and incorporated in 1999.

What does Leeway offer?

We offer a comprehensive service of all aspects of flooring in the commercial and home owner sector.

This includes carpets, luxury vinyl tiles, commercial vinyl flooring and wood floors. We also specialise in bespoke products which are unusual in colour and design; to make a special floor for someone who is looking for something unique and individual.

What type of customers does Leeway attract?

We see customers who are mostly looking for great personal service, and peace of mind that the work will be carried out on time and with the least disruption. We also offer a service for rental home owners and landlord clients who are working to a budget.

Please describe your product range…

On the domestic side, we carry s amples from patterned traditional Axminsters and Wiltons through to twist pile, loop pile, stripes and variations of tufted carpets.

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From solid wood floors to engineered wood floors, luxury vinyl tiles (LVT) in wood effect and ceramic tile effect.

Bespoke rugs and anti-skid rug underlay. There’s almost nothing we can’t source or supply.

What trends to you see emerging?

We’re getting lots of requests for luxury vinyl tiles and, by way of carpets, we’re seeing lots of stripes, plains and plaids.

The retro trend is strong too, so we’re seeing some 60s and 70s designs making a comeback.

“ There’s almost nothing we can’t source or supply.”

“We offer a comprehen- sive service of all aspects of flooring in the commercial and home owner sector.”

How do you keep on track with styles and trends?

The carpet and tile industry is a lot like the fashion industry. We’re always looking to offer something that little bit different from the rest and keep abreast of industry fashion and trend news.

What kind of contract work to you do?

There is a strong market for contract work and we’re lucky to be working with Asda Superstores, Brains Pubs, Punch Taverns, catering for all aspects of their demands.

Leeway Carpets and Flooring Co Ltd. 550-555 Llantrisant Road Penycoedcae, Pontypridd CF37 1PL 01443 400683 www.leewayflooring.co.uk Like on Facebook 61

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Spring in the garden is all about reconnecting with the earth - the garden is waking up and sometimes it happens too early, as it did this year with the mild weather in December. As our favourite season begins, it’s our time to re-engage with what is around us. Use the change of weather to inspire yourself and get out into your garden. Vale Life’s resident award-winning gardening guru, Rob Hodge, tells us more.

NEW SEASON - NEW START

Spring is also the busiest time in the garden, so try to get a head start before the weeds start growing. At this time of year the list of jobs are endless, most of our pruning can be done now especially with roses, the borders need to be weeded and mulched with compost or manure and we can lift and divide herbaceous perennials.

“ The earlier we start planning, the better the finished product will be.”

From mid spring, if the weather is kind enough to us, we can start mowing the lawn regularly and apply lawn weed and feed. It is also a good time for replanting new roses, trees, shrubs and perennials with most of the good garden centres giving you lots of choice with new ideas. The earlier we start thinking and planning, the better the finished product will be.

“ Use the change of weather to inspire yourself to get out into that garden.”

Work out your priorities and decide where you want to be with your garden in three months’ time. Gardening is proven to be therapeutic and its benefits are second to none; fresh air, exercise and both physical and mental stimulation. With the longer days you will have more opportunities to enjoy the outdoor life and when the weather interferes with your spare time you can use it wisely to inform and educate yourself on plants and techniques that you can use in your garden.

Also make the time to visit other gardens for inspiration so that you can make the most of your outdoor space.

Even if the weather isn’t perfect, a BBQ in the garden, providing you dress accordingly, is better than eating a meal sat in front of the TV! 63

Rob Hodge Horticulture 01633 744075 www.RobHodgeHorticulture.co.uk Like on Facebook

One of the joys of working on City Life is meeting new and interesting people with a story to tell.

Mr. and Mrs. Henry Johnson of Penarth welcome us into their beautiful home in Penarth.

OPEN HOUSE

We were shown around their home but the stand-out room for us was the gorgeous kitchen, incorporating a beautiful super-wide set of aluminium bi/fold doors by Alexander James Bi-fold.

How did you hear about Alexander James Bi-folds?

I heard about AAI through a fitter that my brother and I were using on another project we are currently working on.

Having gone to great lengths to source two sets of bi-folds for that particular project, I was fairly confident that I was already getting the best deal and service around. However, one telephone conversation followed by an emailed quotation from Andrew proved me wrong.

“We are absolutely delighted with the completed extension, the design is flawless. �

AAI were then contracted by me to supply a five metre set of aluminium bi-folding doors in charcoal grey which would ultimately become the predominant feature of a full-width single-storey extension to the rear of my own property in Penarth.

What made you want to work with AAI? As partners who have rather fallen into building and property development, my brother and I pride ourselves on the high standard of the tradesmen, subcontractors and suppliers that we have built up over the last ten or so years. Quality, and reliability are essential, that and a very tightly controlled budget.

How did the project go?

This being my own property, and what with a young family in residence throughout the build, scheduling was also of paramount importance, [especially given the fact that the project spanned the winter months!].

For this reason, and in conjunction with AAI, we elected to install the doors prior to knocking the original back wall of the house down. The compromise was that great care had to be taken to protect them throughout the job. This was easily offset by the benefit of the natural light it afforded, the insulation and also the facility to fold away the opening in order to disperse vast quantities of dust!

Generally speaking any project which includes a set of bi-folds implies a finish of a highly considered nature. The design is absolutely key. For this we are extremely fortunate to have the expert services of my sister-in-law Abigail Grummitt, whose website speaks for itself.

Were you pleased with the overall effect?

We are absolutely delighted with the completed extension, the design is flawless. It is a dream open-plan space which also includes a separate utility room in which to shut away

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boots, shoes, coats and all the other paraphernalia of modern day life, as well as providing an all-important second back door.

What difference have the doors made to the way you live?

Having exposed the chimney breast and installed a multi-fuel stove, this winter has been the cosiest on record; you cannot beat a real fire!

Come the summer we are looking forward to entertaining on the patio our new doors neatly folded away.

Furthermore, my wife has developed considerable flair when it comes to interior design, even though she will hate me for writing it!

Would you be happy to recommend them to friends and colleagues?

Moving forward Andrew and his team at AAI have become a much appreciated asset to our extensive team and future collaborations both on our own work and that of private clients is certain.

Alexander James Unit 3A Ashmount Business Park, Upper Forest Way, Swansea SA6 8QR 01792 794 549 www.alexanderjamesbifold.co.uk 65

Emma Cull, lives in North Cornelly near the beautiful Kenfig Hill Nature Reserve and, in our opinion, has a real talent for interior design, so when she wanted some new furniture, only bespoke would do, and that meant a call to Jack & Rose.

INDIVIDUALLY DESIGNED A ND LOVINGLY CREATED

How did you hear about Jack and Rose?

I was introduced to Dave from Jack & Rose through Julie Hughes of Interiors, Bridgend who has supplied our handmade curtains.

Jack and Rose made me exactly what I required, and to the size I required, to fit into my home. The wide choice of fabrics was also a massive positive; the only hard bit was to actually choose as there is so much choice.

What made you want to work with them?

What I loved about the service Jack and Rose provided was to have the bespoke touch of the furniture, which I just couldn’t get in any of the other furniture shops. Dave from Jack and Rose gave us such a high standard of service. If I was unsure of something, Dave would bring the piece of furniture to our home allowing us to see how it would look before he went to the next stage of upholstering, which always gave us great reassurance.

What work did Jack and Rose carry out for you?

My first purchase from Jack & Rose was a two seater settee to fit in our kitchen living area. From seeing the high quality of that piece of furniture, we ordered two Chesterfield style settees as part of a scheme that I was working on with Julie from interiors, who works closely with Dave. Then I bought a French bed for my little girl’s bedroom which needed some work so Jack and rose stripped, painted and re upholstered it it’s beautiful.

66

They also supplied the wallpaper to match the bed for our little girl’s bedroom. We then extended our kitchen so needed a bigger settee, so asked Dave to come and advise us on what we could have. From there we purchased two armchairs and another settee, which is very comfortable, with great child proof fabric and also looks good. We have also purchased a super king size bed, dining chairs, and had more furniture re-upholstered.

Did you have your own ideas or did you work with an interior designer?

Yes, I did have my own ideas of what I wanted and how I wanted the furniture to look like, but I did also get some ideas from the internet and Jack and Rose’s show room was a big help.

“Dave from Jack and Rose gave us such a high standard of service.”

Owner, David Waters talks a little about the history of Jack and Rose...

How long has Jack and Rose been established?

Jack and Rose was started by the Rowe company in 1995, supplying House of Fraser, the Rowe company had been manufacturing carpets since 1934. Jack and Rose was set up to complement this side of the business.

Who are the owners of the business?

We have been making the Jack and Rose furniture for the Rowe Company since 2011 and, in 2014, I acquired the brand and specialised in bespoke furniture, supplying interior designers and private clients. I am third generation in the upholstery business.

Where you happy with the end product?

Definitely! We’ve been very happy with every purchase from Jack & Rose; the furniture standards are set very high and have been everything I imagined and more.

furniture from Jack and Rose after seeing and sitting on the furniture they have made for us. Dave is friendly, professional and very helpful - Jack and Rose have met all our expectations.

How long did the process take?

I do take a long time to make my mind up, but as soon as I decided on what I wanted, the furniture making was around six to eight weeks.

What services do you offer?

We offer a fully tailored service for both individual private clients and interior designers; any size, any shape, any material; if it involves upholstery, we can create it. For sofas, chairs and beds, we can take a drawing or a photo and create almost anything.

Who would you like to work for?

We would love to expand our commercial profile. We enjoy collaborating with designers when they are creating a hotel scheme or working with individual boutique hotels in creating a one-off statement piece to set a style.

Jack & Rose Banthorpe House, Crosby Yard Bridgend CF31 1JZ 01656 768844

Would you be happy to recommend Jack and Rose to friends and colleagues?

Yes we’d highly recommend Jack and Rose to friends, and anyone else looking for that something special. My sister and brother have since purchased

info@jackandrose.co.uk www.jackandrose.co.uk Like on Facebook, Follow on Twitter 67

MAC Plumbing & Heating

Design, supply and install

Christmas has come early for those in need of property maintenance thanks to MAC. This family run business is friendly, knowledgable, and fully qualified in all aspects of plumbing and heating with all tradesmen NVQ City and Guilds Qualified.

MAC have also taken on projects for landlords to help with maintenance across multiple properties and are also affiliated with the 24 hour Cardiff Emergency Plumber service.

For all your plumbing & heating needs! l BATHROOM AND BOILER SPECIALISTS l GAS SAFE REGISTERED l ALL INSURANCE WORK UNDERTAKEN l DOMESTIC AND COMMERCIAL

Call Matthew Cleary 0794 860 7978 Email: macplumbingandheating@gmail.com

We love promoting great businesses in City Life, especially independents.

If you love a local business and think it should appear in Cardiff’s premier lifestyle magazine, we’d love to hear from you. A cool cafe, a beautiful boutique or even the perfect plumber!

As long as you love them, that’s what matters most. Please get in touch.

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After creating Superman inspired jewellery and an unbreakable wedding ring for Laurence Fishburne, Cardiff jewellery designer Neil Rayment really is flying high.

STAR STRUCK What better way to commemorate the cinematic release of Man Of Steel than with a stunning jewellery creation inspired by Superman himself? As a fan of the superhero and friend of the film’s star Laurence Fishburne, award-winning goldsmith Neil Rayment wanted to create an out of the ordinary tribute in the shape of Kal-El’s Crystal - an homage to Superman’s birthplace, a timeless classic, expertly crafted in platinum and diamonds.

“I was looking for something spectacular, I’m a huge fan of Superman and the franchise featured heavily in my childhood,” says Neil, owner and artistic director at Advanced Jewel Craft. “What better place to seek inspiration than the birth place of Superman?”

Advanced Jewel Craft attracts clientele as sparkling as its bespoke pieces. The iconic brand has slowly blossomed since its inception in 2004 and is now a firm favourite amongst A-listers from LA to Abu Dhabi. Oscar-nominated actor Laurence Fishburne is one of Neil’s most prestigious clients. The pair met when Neil briefly switched jewellerymaking for acting and appeared alongside him in The Matrix sequels.

Neil was honoured to be tasked with designing and creating Laurence and his wife Gina Torres’ wedding rings.

VA L E L I F E I N TE RV I E W

One of Hollywood’s real diamonds Laurence kindly took time out of his busy schedule to explain more about his experience of working with Neil.

How did your friendship with Neil come about?

We worked on The Matrix sequels together. We became friends on set and then I found out that Neil’s passion was for jewellery design.

Have you kept in touch? Have you been over to Wales to visit him?

Yes we’ve kept up with each other but still have not made it to Wales I’m sorry to say. I’ve heard that it’s a very beautiful country.

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Neil designed and made your wedding rings. That’s a high pressure assignment - how was he to work with?

He was terrific. The basic design was worked out between Neil and my wife.

We’re delighted with the result.

Can you tell us a little about the inspiration behind the design?

Gina wanted something that would be unbreakable for me. I’m a would-be drummer, so I’m always beating things to hell. The platinum band and three diamonds are all a reflection of my personality and style.

How involved were you in the design process?

I’m very creative but I really felt it was best to trust both Neil and Gina on this one. It was our first custom jewellery experience.

Neil often takes inspiration from films. If you could challenge Neil to design jewellery based on one of your previous films, which would it be?

Probably King Of New York. I think that would be an interesting challenge for Neil but one I’m confident he could rise to.

Created in his Cardiff Bay studio, Advanced Jewel Craft’s pieces are beautiful and exclusive. Neil adopts a personal approach, forging firm relationships with his customers. And while he works with A-list clients, his feet are firmly on the ground. “Jewellery is something that needs personal attention,” Neil says. “You can get entangled in the glamour, the parties, the shows, but the most rewarding thing is to see someone wearing one of my pieces and the pleasure it brings.”

Advanced Jewel Craft 103 Bute Street, Cardiff CF10 5AD 029 2132 8114 www.advancedjc.com

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Vale Life reaches my target audience.

I rarely advertise in any other publication these days.

Russell Scott-Lawson Owner, Hawkes

Welcome to City Life Magazine’s Social Life section, a veritable who’s who in and around the capital.

SOCIAL L IFE VA L E

Wine tasting at Hensol Castle

Guests enjoyed a fine wines tasting by Chateau de Seuil, a Welsh family-owned Bordeaux estate, French inspired canapes, social and rugby chat and business networking at the beautiful Hensol Castle.

The event was part of a series of ongoing tastings and social events

by Fine Wines Direct at Hensol Castle. Nigel O’Sullivan, Managing Director, said, “I am particularly proud to be part of this evening’s event because of the very special connection between Chateau de Seuil and Hensol Castle.” www.hensolcastle.com www.finewinesdirectuk.com

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CARDIFF

Valentine’s Extravaganza What a fabulous event Sian Gunney organised at BT Sport Cardiff Arms Park, Cardiff on 14th February in aid of George Thomas Hospice Care.

Miss Elizabeth Barker, Mrs Victoria Piper, Miss Alison Steele Ms Caroline Hellard, Mrs Jo White

A flock of doves by Lovely Dovey UK were released earlier on in the day. Guests enjoyed a three course dinner and spectacular entertainment

by Glenda Clwyd, harpist, Annelies Kruidenier from BBC1’s The Voice 2015, The Sing and Inspire Choir, Sarah Brown, Lee Gilbert and Stuart Watkins magician delighted guests with close hand magic. magicians.

covered strawberries and a 3 course dinner from Spiro’s fine dining. celebrity and high-end prizes were then auctioned together with a raffle and extra treats and gifts to raise much needed funds for the hospice. The event ended with lots of dancing. Visit George Thomas Hopice Care Facebook page to view the event video.

The event was hosted by TV presenter Mariclare Carey-Jones and supported

by Nicky Piper MBE. Guests enjoyed a champagne reception and chocolate

Sian Gunney Sian Gunney Consulting (SGC Digital) 0845 163 0780 or 07496 031 556 hello@siangunneyconsulting.com

Lovey Dovey UK Dove Releasing

Nicky Piper MBE, Chris & Jo Macnamarra

Lee Gilbert

Catrin Southall & Phil Hoddinott

Amelia Wilkinson, Bianca Robson, Alisha Badillo, Gemma Clarke, Nina Al Temimi, Kelly Stanton, Hayley Feehan, Kirstie Farrell, Lisa Feehan and Abbie Feehan

Annelies Kruidenier

Emma Clothier, Josh & Heidi Dupres, Mia Kowsor, Louise Shanahan Paul Armstrong, Mariclare 71 Carey-Jones, Paula Burns & Cath James

Jess Palmer, Lorna & Jonathan Gilmore

CARDIFF

hope

Lewis Ballard host charity dinner Pentwyn based accountants Lewis Ballard held their annual charity dinner event at Holland House Hotel.

The event, traditionally, has a different theme each year and this year was the 1920’s (Great Gatsby). There was a raffle and auction which were chock-ablock with superb prizes and the event raised a total of £17763.53 for Velindre Cancer Centre.

Janet and Neil, owners of Lewis Ballard, said, “We are so grateful to our clients and friends for their generosity. We are nearer our goal of raising £100,000 for this well-deserved charity, which currently stands at £96024.05, and we

Elaine O’Toole and guest

Alice Thomas and Johanna Evans of Lewis Ballard

hope that our bike ride across the Rockies in September will help us reach, if not surpass, that target.”

029 2073 5502 info@lewisballard.co.uk www.lewisballard.co.uk

Lloyd & Katie Williams Jones

Hugh & Karyn Williams-Jones

Huw & Menna Lewis

David Emanuel with Janet & Neil Ballard

Nia Williams-Jones & Ashley Davies

Shaun McClure & Zoe Clarke

Guests of Restore Dental

Guests of David Pitt - Auctioneer for the night Andrew Morgan and wife Helen with Julian and Emma James

Diane Piggott, Janet and Kelly Young and Sam Barry

Luke Egan, international Rugby player Ceri Sweeney and Nick Kelly guest of Pure commercial finance 72

Rachel & Scott Barry, Sam Barry, Diane Piggot, Janet & Kelly Young

Raid Ali, Zoe Clarke, Euros Jones and guests of Restore Dental

David Hill of Begbies Traynor and Guests

Ben Lloyd, Nick Kelly, Luke Egan, Cerie Sweeney and Guests of Pure Commercial Finance

Stephanie and Jonny Howard, Lewis Ballard

Janet & Neil Ballard with the evenings host ‘Stella’ Star Julian Lewis-Jones, wife Kim and Sharon Werrett

John Hadley of Specialist Service Training Solutions and guests

Sharon Werrett & Craig Robinson, Olivia Robinson and Zoe Waldock from Lewis Ballard

Peter Walker and Euros Jones of Restore Dental

James and Sarah Sullivan from Lewis Ballard

Chris Allen, Carl Gibbs and SOE guests

Charlotte Cotton and Vicky Hall 73

Solicitor Rebecca Mansfield-Fellowes and guests

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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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