City Life Spring 2017

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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.” Caveat emptor Advertisers supply their own copy or artwork, and therefore City Life cannot accept any responsibility for disputes between advertisers and their customers. Caveat emptor - let the buyer beware. Important you read this We have made every effort to ensure that all information contained in City Life or on www.citylifecardiff.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. Intellectual property © Copyright City Life 2016. All rights reserved. Nothing in this magazine (including adverts) may be reproduced in any shape or form (in whole or part) without the express written permission of the publishers. We take breach of copyright and theft of intellectual property extremely seriously and will sue at the drop of a croissant. You have been warned (nicely); ignorance is no excuse. Subscriptions To guarantee your copy, please send a cheque for £20 (four issues) made payable to City Life. Visit www.citylifecardiff.co.uk for special subscriber discounts and special offers.

WELCOME We love spring at City Life. There’s a sense of newness to our capital and that means that all the city’s parks will start to bloom - it’s one of the things that people tell me they really love about Cardiff. Our cover stars this issue are the S.W.Y.D team. Established three years ago by Matthew Pritchard (of MTV’s Dirty Sanchez fame), the tattoo, piercing, and barber studio is a big hit - and with his new venture, a barbers with a bar in Swansea, Matthew is certainly keeping busy (check out the feature on page pages 8 and 9). There’s plenty of hair and beauty in this issue and you’ll find Jennifer’s ‘favourite things’ feature on page 36. We’ve been out and about as usual. Radyr, Canton and Llandaff caught my eye again this issue. There’s a distinct motoring feel to the magazine too, with a few great local garages featured and icon brand Maserati popped in to say hello. For foodies, there are some great suggestions on where to dine out and, for gin lovers, there’s a great feature about Eccentric Gins. We talk to owner Rob Higgins about his hopes and dreams for Wales’ newest gin distillery.

We hope you like the latest issue as much as we’ve enjoyed putting it together. Keep in touch on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram - we love to hear what you love about our great capital. See you in the summer! Lewis Evans Client Relationship Director 07787 907926 lewis@goodlifepublishing.co.uk

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TAKE THE MASERATI WAY

Levante. The Maserati of SUVs. Starting at £54,335 OTR The road you choose to travel might not be a road at all. A quick trip might turn into the adventure of a lifetime, because there’s no reason to stay on the beaten track when you can create a path of your own. The Maserati Levante was designed with world-class engineering prowess and features Q4 intelligent all-wheel-drive and sophisticated air-suspension systems, which allow you to enjoy a fully capable SUV with outstanding Maserati driving dynamics. Please call us to arrange your test drive.

MOTORLINE MASERATI CARDIFF 291 Penarth Road, Cardiff, Glamorgan, CF11 8TT Phone: 02920 666 472 | www.motorline.co.uk/maserati

Official fuel consumption figures for the All New Maserati Levante Diesel in mpg (l/100km): Urban 34.4 (8.2), Extra Urban 42.8 (6.6), Combined 39.2 (7.2). CO2 emissions 189g/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 Levante Diesel MY17 at £66,640 On The Road including optional Luxury Pack at £5,950, 21 inch Anteo alloy wheels at £2,695, Driver Assistance Pack at £1,450, panoramic sunroof at £1,200, Rear laminated privacy glass at £350 and bi-xenon front headlamps at £660.


AROUND THE CITY SLEEP WHEN YOU’RE DEAD

S.W.Y.D With three years of his iconic Cardiff tattoo studio under his belt Welsh legend Matthew Pritchard is finally expanding his business. Three years have gone by in a flash and Matthew Pritchard’s (of MTV’s Dirty Sanchez fame) tattoo, piercing, and barber studio has become a hit within the capitol city. As of 2016 his new venture, a barbers with a bar, opened in Swansea which keeps Matthew busy when he’s not competing in yet another charity events. For more on SWYD, read our feature on pages 8 and 9. 22 High Street Arcade, Cardiff CF10 1BB 029 2037 6226 www.swydtattoo.com Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter THE FRONT LINE OF FASHION

Boutique 53 Owner Jayne Davies knows a thing or two when it comes to the latest in women’s fashion. Boutique 53 of Wellfield Road is the place to be when in search of unique fashions for every occasion. Jayne’s keen eye for what’s on trend means Boutique 53 has quickly become a must visit location. Featuring collections from; Marble, Pomodoro, Robell, Capri, Smashed Lemon, Latte, Michaela Louisa, Lebek, and many more. Also pop in to see their stunning Prom 2017 range. 53 Wellfield Road, Cardiff CF24 3PA 029 2049 7988 www.boutique53.com Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter 6


DESIGN, EXCLUSIVITY, PERFORMANCE

The Maserati Levante is turning heads For Maserati, the Levante is certainly a turning point in the marque’s history. The brand new model, which made its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show, is based on the evolution of the saloon platform.

The Levante’s design is distinctive and attractive, embracing the aesthetic elements of Italian style. The design brings a new concept to the SUV world, combining spaciousness and Designed exclusively by Maserati, the chassis coupé lines while achieving the best aerodynamic efficiency in its segment has been specifically developed to offer with a Cx coefficient of just 0.31. With unique on-road drivability and competitive Maserati’s more than 100-year tradition off-road capability, with day-to-day comfort of craftsmanship and cutting-edge and practicality. The premium Italian SUV technology, the eye-catching Levante was conceived around three main pillars: showcases the company’s obsession with Design, Exclusivity and Performance. And quality right down to the tiniest of details. Maserati claim it represents the optimum blend of these three elements in the SUV world. Starting from £56,250 FA S H I O N AT I T S B E S T

Boutique 53 Pontcanna Much like its sister location on Wellfield Road, Boutique 53 Pontcanna offers the best designs from the most up-to-date fashions. If you would like to find out what fashion trends are in for the Spring ‘17 season then go no further than Boutique 53 Pontcanna, inside you will find the latest designs from the most fashionable labels. Owner Jayne Davies is also offering 20% off the entire Frank Lyman Collection until the end of April. Simply present this feature or take the magazine into store to receive your discount. 75 Pontcanna Street, Cardiff CF11 9HS 029 2034 2568 Like on Facebook 7


Welsh wildcard Matthew Pritchard, of MTV’s Dirty Sanchez fame, recently celebrated the third anniversary of his iconic Cardiff Tattoo, Piercing, and Barber Studio: SWYD. Plus he’s opened a second studio in Swansea. City Life catches up with Matthew’s news (and is in total awe of his fitness challenges)…

S.W.Y.D.

Congratulations on your third anniversary and your new studio. Thank you; I can’t quite believe we’ve been in business for over three years now - how time flies. We’re about to introduce another full time barber, Cory Rogers, to our team - giving us four full time barbers working Tuesday to Saturday. Also Oscar has joined us on a part time basis and will hopefully be looking at going full time by the end of the year. We’ve had another year of celebrity guests visiting the shop including Calum Best, Phil Campell of Motorhead and numerous sports stars. Miles O’Keefe won Welsh Barber of the Year which has helped the shop immensely; Miles has also been visiting colleges teaching barbering to students and Aaron Rogers is now our Head Barber. Our Greek barber Evangelos (Vagg) has been with the team for over a year and is fluent in Greek and French which is great for our visiting European customers.

“ We’ve introduced a new booking system ‘Resurva’.”

My good friend Adrian Rooke, who I’ve known for over 20 years and who was my Tour Manager in the Dirty Sanchez days, has been managing the shop for over a year now and I know when I’m away it’s in good hands.

We’ve introduced a new booking system ‘Resurva’ to both shops making it easier for our customers to book their appointments, 24hrs a day, 365 days a year. Links to this are in the bios of our social media channels. And we’ve also invested in personalising and upgrading our barbers chairs giving our customers a more comfortable chair while they visit. Upstairs, tattooist Aaron Usher has joined the team and tattooist Baz Hammond is back with us after a year’s break in Australia. John Smith, who has been with us since day one, has been filming for MTV for the next big tattoo show to hit our screens with presenters Charlotte Crosby (Geordie Shore) and Bear (Winner of Celebrity Big Brother 2016); the show is due to hit the screens early April so keep an eye out for that. 8

Can you tell us about your Swansea studio? We launched the Swansea salon in 2016, it’s made up of a bar and barbers, and we have three stations. It’sa great place to come and get away from it all, have a beer and chill out. Our late nights are very popular – we’re open until 8pm on Wednesdays and 10pm on Thursdays. Barbers Anthony Hancock and Nathan Morgan have been working hard to build a great customer base and we have Sean Smith, former member of rock band ‘The Blackout’ managing everything at the salon/ bar. I’m in partnership with Mathew Benjamin at the Swansea shop. Keep an eye on our social media channels for news about Swansea, we’ve got a lot planned for this year. Also, we’re currently in search for barbers to join our team there so if any of your readers knows anyone out there who thinks they’ve got it please get in touch.


And you’ve also started your own range of merchandise. Yes, we have everything from t-shirts, snoods, beanies, snapbacks and hoodies to hair products – these are all available at www.swydtattoo.com

“ We’ve raised £30,000 so far and are hoping to reach the goal of £100,000.” We eagerly follow your challenges what’s in store for 2017? I started my Pritchardswyd £100,000 challenge in March last year by completing 30 Half Iron Distance Triathlons in 30 days (1.5 mile swim, 56 mile bike ride, 13.2 mile run) which was a world record beating the previous one which stood at 22 triathlons. In May I completed a continuous Triple Ironman which consisted of a 7.5 mile swim, then a 336 mile bike ride followed by a 79 mile run, which I completed in 54 hours with only two hours sleep. I also did the Dublin Half Ironman, Dublin Marathon and Cardiff Triathlon.

I’m currently on my way for three weeks of winter training in Mallorca ready for my 2017 challenges, one of which will be a world first. We’ve raised £30,000 so far and are hoping to reach the goal of £100,000 by the end of this year. Donations and info via www.pritchards100kchallenge.com Wow. What charities will benefit from all these challenges? I’m currently supporting bigmoose, Tŷ Hafan, Guide Dogs for the Blind, Shelter Cymru and Greenhill School. What plans do you have for the future? I’ll be launching something new in the summer which I’m looking forward to announcing but I can’t say much yet (we’re looking forward to hearing about this) I’m also working with a production company to release my own Vlog, and generally concentrating on looking after my businesses and my challenges, and keeping fit. 9

SWYD CARDIFF 22 High Street Arcade Cardiff CF10 1BB 029 2037 6226 www.swydtattoo.com Twitter @swydtatto Instagram @swydtattoo Facebook @swydtattoo SWYD SWANSEA Basement, No.6 Princess Way Swansea SA1 3LW 01792 209 966 www.swydswansea.com Twitter @swydswansea Instagram @swydswansea Facebook @swydswansea


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T R A D I T I O N A L LY D E L I C I O U S

Mia Porto Due It’s time to treat your senses with the plethora of traditional Portuguese / Italian fusion dishes available in Mia Porto Due. Sitting comfortably in Cardiff’s Brewery Quarter, Mia Porto Due serves classic family Portuguese and Italian fusion recipes. With 75 indoor seats as well as an addition 40 outside in their covered seating area, you can enjoy their scrumptious pastas and pizzas, their famous grilled Espetada or anything from their half price daytime menu, no matter the weather. Unit 4, Brewery Quarter, Cardiff CF10 1FG 029 2022 7147 www.portodue.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter WA L E S - W I D E

Be part of Wales’ Biggest Tea Party! It’s a Piece of Cake! Brew up this spring for Welsh Hearts the Heart Charity of Wales Biggest Tea Party and help us fund lifesaving AED’s/Defibrillators and heart screening throughout Wales. Why not get together with friends, family or work colleagues or in your School to hold a tea party or coffee morning for Welsh Hearts - the heart charity for Wales and help us to save lives in Wales?

funds for Welsh Hearts, your local heart charity? Your event can be held anytime during the spring.

Why not have a cake sale at school or in the Office or a coffee morning or Afternoon Tea Party involving friends and family and raise much needed

To register for your Wales’ Biggest Tea Party and to receive your fundraising pack which contains everything you need from invitations,

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ideas and posters to stickers and balloons please get in touch. 02922 402670 Download a fundraising pack at www.welshhearts.org/teaparty or email fundraising@welshhearts.org


MEET THE NEW STYLISTS

YUME With the loyal guests enjoying a unique experience every time they visit, it’s no wonder customers keep returning to Yume. With such a rapidly growing and loyal clientele constantly streaming through the salon’s doors, it’s no surprise the highly skilled team found within needs to keep growing too. To find out more about Yume’s fabulous new stylists, as well as what they can offer you within the relaxing surroundings of the professional and friendly Yume salons, visit the website or pop in to see for yourself.

Yume Rhydypenau 9 Fidlas Road, Rhydpenau, Cardiff CF14 0LW 02920 766 610 hello@yumecardiff.co.uk Yume City Centre Park Grove, Cathays Park, Cardiff CF10 3BH 02920 233 270 info@yumecardiff.co.uk www.yumecardiff.co.uk Find on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram

RayJay

Georgia

R E J U V E N AT E YO U R S E L F

Hotpod Yoga Suitable for every body and every mind, get ready for complete immersion yoga! Enter the pod and lay down, let the warmth surreptitiously melt your shoulders away from your ears, and onto your mat... and breathe. Move into shapes you’d never considered before. Relax, rest, finally emerging into the real world feeling looser, calmer, rejuvenated, and supercharged. You’ve been immersed and now you’re ready for whatever comes next. Intro Offer for new customers: one week, unlimited classes; experience the immersion.

Use code WXWFABXN at checkout when selecting 1 week unlimited Intro Offer. Cardiff Central Sports & Community Centre, Beignon Close, Cardiff CF24 5PB 07908 659992 www.hotpodyoga.com Find on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram

T H E C R E AT I V E H A I R S T Y L I S T S

Maine Hair Studio This Crwys Road hair studio is the result of expert stylist Mathew Farnham’s 14 years experience joined with a talented team of creative hair stylists. The trained team of expert stylists found at Maine Hair Studio have a passion for colour and for creative style, and are all under the tutelage of Mathew who, in addition to excelling in all aspects of the industry, has also had the honour of having his work seen in a great number of fashion shows throughout the country. 126 Crwys Road, Cardiff CF24 4NR www.mainehairstudio.co.uk 029 2039 0999 Like on Facebook 12

“ A unique experience every time.”


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W W W. B R A S S K N U C K S A P PA R E L .CO. U K B R A S S K N U C K S A P PA R E L

A WELSH BRAND

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Apprenticeships at Yume Salons - Working in Collaboration with ISA Training, Wales’ Leading Hair and Beauty Training Company.

YUME H AIR & BEAUTY

Sian Charlton - Graduate Stylist at Yume

Yume’s stylists Georgia and Sian with the rest of the lucky learners that went to Cyprus

City Life chats with Sian Charlton, a Graduate Stylist at Yume Hair and Beauty Salons… Sian can you tell us about your job? Each day is different; I’m learning something new all the time. I began my hairdressing career straight from school and I have learned all aspects of hairdressing including reception and customer service. I have completed level 1 and I am just finishing level 2 and I’m soon to start level 3! I’ve progressed from an assistant to a Graduate Stylist with my own clientele. What makes Yume such a great place to work? The training that I’m receiving; I love learning in such a fun but professional way. I improve my skills everyday by getting involved as much as I can with all of our clients. I’m part of a fantastic team; I enjoy being able to have a laugh with my colleagues/friends while I work. And of course I get to meet some lovely people every day.

What does your training involve? We have educational days at least once a week at the salon for practical and theory and my ISA Training Consultant visits regularly to support me. We train on cutting, styling, colouring, fashion work etc. In April 2016 I went to Cyprus to experience what it’s like to work in a salon in a different country; that was amazing. I’ve also been to London recently for some training. It was exciting and I learnt so much.

I will then source clothing and a makeup artist to complete the look/image. Then our professional photographer will capture the image which will be entered into the competition. Wish me luck!

What has been your favourite part of your job so far? That would be having my own clients; them actually asking for me, and watching my clientele grow. Oh and progressing to the title ‘Graduate Stylist’! What’s next for you? This year I will be competing in Wella’s competition, Trend Vision. I will attend the Trend Vision insight show in Bristol and then I will work on my mood-board to put together all my inspirations. 14

Sharing the Yume experience - Salon Owner Giovanna, Niamh and Niamh’s Mum! ‘The Yume/Parent partnership’


We ask Giovanna, Yume’s Managing Director/Assessor, why do you use ISA Training? As a qualified Assessor and Teacher of Further Education, I strongly believe that hairdressing training is at its best in the salon. I have worked for other training providers and also for ISA. When I worked for ISA I experienced quality and professionalism with 100% focus on apprentices working and gaining qualifications whilst in a salon. Now that I have my own apprentices, it is great that we have such an outstanding working relationship. It is by far the best quality of education for my leaners. So can Yume Apprentices actually gain qualifications without going to college? Yes, together we deliver NVQ up to level 3, and we don’t stop there. ISA have provided my apprentices with other qualifications after Level 3 such as Team Leader, Management, Barbering and Assessing qualifications too. Yume apprentices have benefited from ISA’s flexibility with individual learners working at their own pace. So what else can a Yume/ISA apprentice expect from their apprenticeship? Certainly not just shampooing and assisting, we offer an exciting challenging career. We invest in our apprentices to ensure that they become outstanding stylists. They can compete in Salon Cymru – ISA’s annual hairdressing competition held in Cardiff. We get them involved in photoshoots, catwalk shows and exciting events. Learning also takes place externally at our affiliated Wella Academies in London and Manchester. Also thanks to ISA’s Oyster Project our apprentices have had 2 weeks away learning at salons in Spain and Cyprus with the aim of broadening their horizons and bringing new skills back to the salon.

CA R E E R S AT Y U M E

Are you creative? Are you passionate about fashion, hair and beauty? Are you looking to start a career in hairdressing? Here at Yume we demand commitment to quality. In return we do not offer a job; we offer an exciting and successful clear career path. We have been training and building our teams for over 10 years. We are looking for additional creative, talented stylists and apprentices to be part of our successful, professional team. We are offering… n Competitive salary plus commissions n Retail and treatment incentives, 30% Commissions on Hair services n Private Healthcare n Further training/qualifications provided by in-house and external educators n Training courses at our affiliated Wella Academies in London and Manchester n 28 days holidays n Discounts on products and equipment at trade prices n Free haircuts, colours and styling n Family discounts n Opportunities to grow within the company If you’ve got what we’re looking for please send your C.V. and covering letter to: hello@yumecardiff.co.uk 15

APPRENTICESHIPS AT YUME n Start straight from Year 11 n NVQ qualifications level 1-3 n In-house teachers and assessors n Fun, friendly working environment n Earn while you Learn! For more information on apprenticeships at Yume please call: Giovanna at Yume 02920 766 610. For more information about apprenticeships in Hairdressing, Barbering & Beauty please call: Dawn at ISA 01656 869 987 Yume City Centre Park Grove, Cathays Park Cardiff CF10 3BH 02920 233 270 info@yumecardiff.co.uk www.yumecardiff.co.uk Yume Rhydypenau 9 Fidlas Road, Rhydypenau Cardiff CF14 0LW 02920 766 610 hello@yumecardiff.co.uk www.yumecardiff.co.uk ISA Training Ground Floor, 31 Oldfield Road Bocam Park, Pencoed, Bridgend CF35 5LJ www.isatraining.co.uk


S T YLISH FASHION

Calon Rhiwbeina With its affordable range of labels Calon Rhiwbeina is the boutique that meets the needs of the busy woman. The new collections for Spring/Summer 2017 include new brands Toupy, ICHI, Part Two and Zilch alongside popular brands Mistral, thought (formerly Braintree), Lily & Me and Brakeburn in sizes XS to XXL. Join us for Friday Fizz, browsing with a glass of fizz until 7pm, on March 3rd and April 7th Our next Fashion Show will be on Friday May 5th in Canolfan Beulah, Rhiwbina. 9 - 11 Lon Fach, Rhiwbina CF14 6DY 029 2061 0722 www.calonrhiwbeina.com Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter 16


2016 was a great year for James & Jenkins as they became the first Subaru dealer to be found within Cardiff for more than five years - a massive achievement on top of everything else they already provide. With 2017 in full swing it looks like there is no slowing down for this excellent dealership.

JAMES & JENKINS

When James & Jenkins claim they are one of the best car showrooms in Wales, they make it proudly based on the excellent customer feedback. For more than thirty five years James and Jenkins have been selling new and used cars as well as providing servicing and MOTs all under the single roof of their showroom on Station Road near Llandaff. Mainly dealing with Subaru and Vauxhalls, in addition to a range of Renault, Ford, and Fiat cars, the helpful staff offer their best attention,

guaranteeing the best possible deal they can provide and ensuring that each and every car that leaves their forecourt has been thoroughly checked and is ready to be driven away after purchase. They also provide FCA authorised finance options to help spread the cost of your new purchase. If all of that was not enough you can also find Charter Vehicle Hire on site. As one of the oldest established vehicle hire companies in South Wales, Charter offers competitive renting of anything from a small town car to a full tail-lift Transit or Luton van. 17

James & Jenkins 14 Station Road, Cardiff CF14 2FF 029 2030 4020 www.jamesandjenkins.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter


One of the real pleasures of publishing is meeting new people. A chance encounter in the Vale introduced us to Rob Higgins who owns a modest smallholding in Peterston, and is a Director of a brand new(ish) gin distillery hidden in the depths of the valleys. We had to visit, we just had to.

ECCENTRIC CRAFT GINS ECCENTRIC CRAFT GINS

The fabulous four… Eccentric Gin currently produces four quite distinct gins (we have to admit, after tasting them, we’re fans). Here’s how Eccentric describes its range… MADAM GENEVA London dry: 42% abv. A London dry as it should be. Simple, dry and juniper forward with citrus and a hint of liquorice and some subtle floral and sweet characters added by the sacred duo ‘meadowsweet and wild sunflower’. LIMBECK A new Western style gin: 45% abv. A gorgeously heady mix of blue ginger and citrus with tarragon, Seville orange and Orris. Rested in recycled burgundy French oak casks to develop a smooth texture. The oak casks leave a subtle peach colour, which will vary subtly with each batch (that’s craft!). Hidden in a secret location, Eccentric Gin, is a craft gin distillery producing a superb range of very unique and innovative gins. Now most new gin distilleries would give themselves a pat on the back for launching one good gin in their first year. Eccentric produced four. And not only that, these particular four gins have been going down a storm with connoisseurs and gin lovers right across the UK. Using a combination of traditional methods fused with established innovative botanicals (even barrel ageing some gins - very clever stuff), the result is a range of smooth gins with flavours that appeal to all ages and palates. Eccentric originally operated in Llantrisant in 2015 but recently moved to larger premises. Eccentric’s innovative gins are distilled by a mix of brewers, mixologists and even a freeman of Llantrisant. Indeed it was William Price, a true eccentric, with radical, innovative ideas that served as the inspiration for the Eccentric brand.

Described as one of the most unique men in Victorian Britain, William Price (1800 - 1893) was a physician and freeman of Llantrisant. “He was quite the eccentric!” says Rob, “He was a believer in free love, democracy, and the emancipation of women, druidism and legalised cremation. He really sums up the Eccentric ethos!”

YOUNG TOM Fresh juniper malt gin: 46% abv. Fermented from ipa wash and refined to a clean aromatic distillate. Naturally sweetened and vapour infused then rested. A sweet and floral style of gin with fennel, wild sunflower root and star anise seeds. Rested for 6 weeks to develop its flavours…

London Dry Gin, Dublin Dry Gin, Edinburgh Dry Gin, and even Plymouth have had a Gin named after them for many years. Eccentric Gin produce an innovative craft gin called Cardiff Dry finally putting Cardiff the capital of Wales on the gin map at long last.

CARDIFF DRY A unique dry gin: 37.5%abv. A new style of gin chosen by the people of south wales. Rich herbal notes of rosemary, fennel, sorrel and liquorice, together with citrus notes from the lemongrass and verbena. Perhaps the new aperitif gin of the world?

I ask Rob what are Eccentric’s plans for the future? “More gins! But we’re also planning on growing and harvesting Juniper in the Vale of Glamorgan to produce our own gins making it a truly local and Welsh product. We have also been helping clubs and societies with their fundraising by conducting gin tasting sessions and ‘master classes’ time. Which are obviously great fun.” We’ll drink to that. 18

If you’re a retailer, hotel, bar, pub or restaurant that would like an Eccentric behind your bar, please get in touch. You can buy single bottles online at www.eccentricgin.com or on Saturdays from our outlet in Petertston super Ely or at Caerphilly. Call 029 20 397554. www.eccentricgin.com rob@eccentricgin.com



CANTON 6 8 Y E A R S O F G R E AT S E RV I C E

Radiocraft

With an incredible reputation, Radiocraft is one of South Wales’ leading independent electrical retailers. Continuing to offer quality service and affordable prices ever since it first opened in 1949, Radiocraft are pleased to announce their brand new website is currently in development, launching in April! By featuring an increased product portfolio you will soon be able to get more electrical items with Radiocraft’s affordable prices and superior service, also not forgetting that all TV’s will come with a six year warranty from April. 253 Cowbridge Road East, Cardiff CF11 9TQ 029 2023 1166 www.radiocraft.uk.com Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter K I T C H E N S : O U R L I F E & PA S S I O N

Jam Kitchens In the Spring many people start larger home refurbishment projects, these often being new kitchens. We are here to help you, from an initial FREE kitchen survey, through to full project management and installation. Our team of experienced designers use all aspects of kitchen design, and work closely with you to make your dream kitchen become a reality. With an excellent selection of products, at realistic and affordable prices, plus the very best service available, we can provide you with everything that you will ever need for your new kitchen. 397 Cowbridge Road East, Cardiff CF5 1UG 029 2151 0020 www.jamkitchens.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter 20


Recycling and upcycling has grown popular over recent years and the tendency to invest in quality rather than quantity is certainly on the increase. Shoes are a classic example. Readers tell us they’re more inclined to repair a good pair of shoes these days than throw away and buy new.

CANTON COBBLERS

First of all, can you repair these? (Laughs) Let’s have a look. Yes, we can repair these - while you wait if you want. We can repair all types of shoes, we replace worn soles and heels, stiletto heels, toe pieces, and lock stitched and Goodyear welted leather soles. We can even lower stiletto and block heels. This has recently become a very popular request. Speaking of popular, we have become the ‘go to’ place with ladies who have Christian Louboutin shoes, as we are able to add the red rubber protector soles to the shoes to keep them looking new. I didn’t pay a lot for these shoes, are they worth repairing? Well you were wearing them when you came in, so if they are worth wearing they are worth repairing. You might not have been happy with how the original heels or soles have worn but that’s no reason to condemn them to the bin. If the actual upper of the shoe is still in good condition we will have them looking like new.

We only use the best repair materials from Svig and Vibram so we are actually improving the shoes not just repairing them. Our repairs should last longer than the original heels and soles on your shoes so you can get more wear out of them - from worn to reborn. While I’m waiting for my repairs I can see you cut keys, replace watch batteries and watch straps, and repair leather goods. Yes there is no reason why quality and convenience can’t be under the same roof. I can’t count how many times a customer has come in for a shoe repair and then had some keys cut or a new watch battery or watch strap fitted, bought a new belt or just picked up some polish. It saves our customers’ time and keeps them coming back. The real eye catcher is your display of Barker shoes. Why did you go into selling handmade shoes? Actually I like to think the eye catcher is being able to see your shoes being worked on in our workshop. All our repairs are done in house but you are 21

probably right about the Barker shoes, they do steal the show. We became very popular with people who buy handmade shoes because of the quality of our repairs so we decided to start selling handmade shoes and it has proven to be very successful. Our repair and retail strategy works. People come in to have shoes repaired and often buy their next pair from our collection. We also found that some customers would be unhappy with the shoes they have bought from the big chain stores and are looking for a quality pair. Who better to advise you on your next pair of shoes than people who can actually make and repair shoes.

“We are actually improving the shoes not just repairing them.” Canton Cobblers 236 Cowbridge Road East CF5 1GY 029 2039 4392 www.cantoncobbler.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter


Cardiff is a vibrant place to live with many purchasers and new tenants wanting to reside in our superb capital. We took some time out to chat with Brad Hoskins, owner of Hoskins Morgan, following the opening of their newest showroom.

HOSKINS MORGAN

How’s business? I’m delighted to say that business for both sales and rental properties is excellent, with 2016 being our busiest year to date. Business was so good that we needed to expand and have recently opened another showroom at 265 Cowbridge Road East, in the heart of Canton, in order to cope with demand for our services. That’s great news. What would you say sets you apart from other agents? We’re a family run business with our emphasis very much on ‘customer service’ offered to clients at a fair price. Our staff are trained to act in a professional, yet friendly, manner towards our clients who are referred to as Mr & Mrs at all times, rather than being reference numbers. We offer a seven day valuation service with viewing appointments six days a week, including late evening and Saturdays. Colour sales details are always to hand, together with a user friendly web site.

We pride ourselves on both repeated business and client referrals. Besides selling and renting out property, hoskinsmorgan offer a full property management service and can also introduce our clients to a choice of property professionals such as solicitors, surveyors and builders. We are members of the ‘Property Ombudsman’ and the ‘National Approved Lettings Scheme’. We are also ‘Rent Smart Wales’ licensed to rent and manage property across Wales. Can you tell us more about Rent Smart Wales? Absolutely, we’re licenced by Rent Smart Wales to both let and manage residential property in Wales. It’s very surprising that there are many landlords who still don’t realise that they’re committing an offence by breaking a law that came into effect in November 2016; this requires any landlord who owns a residential property in Wales to be registered with Rent Smart Wales and, if they manage their own properties, they now have to be licensed to do so. 22

Our staff at hoskinsmorgan have all been trained and are compliant with Rent Smart Wales guidelines and have passed exams in order to gain their licences. We are proud to be managing over 140 residential properties and keen to offer landlords our services in order for them to be compliant with this new law. We offer both a Let Only service and Fully Managed Service at a very competitive price. What advice would you give City Life readers who may be looking to buy, sell or let? If you’re looking to purchase or rent a property get good professional financial advice on the amount you have to spend on a property, whilst remembering that as well as mortgage or rent repayments there are many more bills that need to be included in your budget; rates, electric, gas, water, tv licence and general repairs etc. Do not over stretch yourself. Always do your homework on the particular area that you are going to reside, taking into consideration, transport, schools, shops and crime etc.


If you’re planning to sell or let out your property give your local agent a ring for free advice concerning the value of the property, see what the agent has to offer by way of service and what their charges are if instructed to market. Make a note of agent’s boards in your area to see who are selling and renting. Also, go online and check Agents websites and ‘Reviews’ for feedback received from previous clients who have engaged those agents. And how is the housing climate at the moment? I think it’s fair to say that the Brexit effect slowed the market down for around six weeks last year. However, after a settling period the market bounced back with many sales of residential property being recorded in 2016 and this has carried on into the early part of this year.

We have many prospective buyers and tenants (all qualified) to proceed to purchase or rent property in Cardiff and the surrounding areas. Interest rates remain at record low levels and purchasing a property is still a very good investment. As we all know Cardiff is growing and the property market continues to show no signs of letting up. Any plans for the future? It is our aim to have a third showroom in Cardiff by late summer in order to offer our clients a first class residential property service. We are always looking for ways to improve our level of service and are planning to invest in more professional training for our already switched on team in order to pass on even higher levels of service to our clients.

“We’re a family run business with our emphasis very much on ‘customer service’.” 23

Hoskins Morgan 498 Cowbridge Road East, Cardiff 029 2055 3056 265 Cowbridge Road East, Cardiff 029 2240 1999 www.hoskinsmorgan.co.uk Like and follow on Facebook


The Italian Way was established over 30 years ago in the heart of Cardiff ’s Cowbridge Road by Giuseppe Ranalli who has over 50 years in the catering business.

THE ITALIAN WAY Alfonso, Giuseppe & Lena Ranalli

Bringing out the finest elements of one of the best gastronomic regions of the world The Italian Way’s menu emphasises the use of simple fresh ingredients, skilfully combined to bring out the best of a wide range of traditional dishes from rustic pasta to perfect pizzas.

Mains start from £7.95 and include Linguini alla Vongole which is pasta strips with clams cooked with olive oil, garlic, chilli, white wine and a touch of Napoletana sauce, their positively perfect pizzas, and the oh-so-tasty Spigola which is pan fried fresh seabass in garlic, lemon and white wine.

The authentic, and extensive, menu changes to reflect the seasons - at the time of writing the selection of starters (from just £4.95) includes a sharing platter of antipasto; mussels in a garlic, white wine and tomato sauce served with warm ciabatta, and our favourite Pallotte Menina which is a traditional dish from the Abruzzo Region, made with eggs, mozzarella, parmesan and fresh basil, rolled then fried and served with Napoletana sauce. It’s to die for.

Desserts (because who can resist these beauties) are all priced at £4.95 and include Panettone with Italian vanilla ice cream, chocolate bread pudding served with Morello cherries in Kirsch syrup, and a divine orange citrus cheesecake served with Cointreau syrup.

“ The authentic, and extensive, menu changes to reflect the seasons” 24

Check out the full range of menus on the restaurant’s website – and note their special menus for events such as Christmas, Valentine’s etc and the rugby (too late for this year’s Six Nations but make a note in your diary for the Autumn Internationals.) The Italian Way is fully licensed and stocks a great selection of fine Italian wines, and Champagne; you can bring your own bottle(s) of wine if preferred, for a minimal corkage fee. As a family; Giuseppe, Alfonso, and Lena, strive to maintain the quality of food and service that they’re so well known for, as well as building on the overall Italian experience for their customers (existing and new) and it shows.


Opening Hours You can experience Italian food at its finest from Monday to Saturday 12pm–2pm and 6pm–10pm The Italian Way 157 Cowbridge Road Cardiff CF11 9AH 029 2039 6980 www.theitalianway.co.uk Follow on Facebook and Twitter 25


When the medical profession can’t help, who do you turn to for help? City Life chats to Geraldine about her healing journey with Penarth healer, Anne Rodgers.

Geraldine

HEALING H ANDS

Anne Rodgers

Talking with my daughter, she told I was diagnosed with emphysema me that Anne works with clients with five years ago. It was just after losing 2013_41_Layoutand 1 02/08/2013 08:43 Pagewhy 50 emphysema said “Mum don’t my lovely daughter Janice from Vale Life Summer you go?” So, we made an appointment. endometriosis. I started going to Anne twice a week for one hour each time. I could feel I do believe the shock of losing her everything as she was working on me. caused me such a trauma of losing my daughter which I believe took my The heat was unbelievable as was the breath away. The doctors clinically cold which would change quite quickly diagnosis of emphysema meant I had as Anne worked around my chest. When to go on medication of inhalers and I was having a treatment, we could even tables to help blow up my lungs as see a hand mark on my ankle. Anne my chest was very tight and breathing took a photo to show me. It was a white was difficult. I was also sent to a sports hand print and was quite visible on my centre to try and exercise to help skin. I could see lots of colours; black but I couldn’t keep that up for long, into red with amber. So far, I’ve seen a although I did manage Zumba for a fifty per cent improvement. little while. I have another daughter Cerys, who also suffered from endometriosis. She has been going to Anne for healing as as her husband for various complaints. I was also about to have a new kitchen installed at my home and the kitchen designer mentioned that he had been going to Anne as well.

The stairs in my apartment used to kill me but I’m managing them much better now. I’ve lived in my second-floor apartment for seventeen years. I’ve always had my inhaler to hand. My legs were always fat; especially around my ankles. I looked in the mirror at them recently and they have slimmed down an awful lot. 26

I’ve also noticed that I’m filled with energy - which I wasn’t before. I’ve now dropped down from seeing Anne to one hour a week to see how my body responds to that. I read Anne’s first book and was amazed at the healing stories in it. Anne is a fantastic, lovely person and I think she’s very brave doing what she does.

A N N E RO D G E R S HE A L E R

Based in the beautiful seaside town of Penarth in the Vale Of Glamorgan, I mostly work with local people in the Vale, Cardiff and across South Wales. My clients come from all walksAnne of life. IRodgers work with men, women and children although I never work with children without a parent being For an appointment, please present. For more information, please visit phone www.annerodgershealer.co.uk 029 2035 0118 If you’d like to book a consultation, please call me on 029 2035 0118 or 07846 781183. www.annerodgershealer.co.uk My first book, The God Conclusion, is available to buy at £10 including Please see page postage and packing. It tells my 40 on where to story and has many testimonials frompurchase people I haveAnne’s worked with.

book. If youfirst would like a copy, please send a cheque for £10 made out to Anne Rodgers to: Good Life Publishing Cardiff House Cardiff Road, Barry Vale Of Glamorgan CF63 2AW


Getting peckish at work is a daily struggle, especially when the vending machines are so close or that lovely woman from accounting has brought in double chocolate cookies for the third day in a row. Snacks are fast, easy, and almost always bad for you in some way. Eunice Chipachini shows us that not all our snacking decisions can be bad for us.

NIBBLE NATURE Busy schedules mean that there is less time to prepare a healthy snack, especially when the unhealthy ones are only a few vending machine buttons away so, in order to combat this, Nibble Nature has arrived on the scene to deliver convenient, healthy curated snacks directly to the desks of busy working professionals.

Established in July of 2016, Nibble Nature went on to receive a highly encouraging public response with many of its customers being attracted by the idea that they can continue to snack, but in a much healthier fashion. Nibble Nature is a healthy snack subscription box service that delivers healthy and nutrient-rich snacks directly to your desk at work for no additional charge.

With a choice of weekly, fortnightly, or monthly deliveries, each containing five snacks (one for each day of the working week), snacks arrive in a portable, ecofriendly, portion controlled pack. Currently there are three boxes to choose from: Office Nibble Box, Gluten-Free Box, and Vegan Box. All produce is sourced from the best independent artisanal snack providers from across the globe, ensuring the very best quality and the most delicious flavours.

When curating the snacks, Nibble Nature choose options that contain proteins, natural fats, and carbohydrates to create a winning snack combination. These macronutrients work together to stimulate your metabolism and energy, maintaining bloody sugar and keeping stomachs full until the next meal. 27

So the next time you are feeling a bit peckish at your desk, give Nibble Nature a try and let them show you just how easy snacking the right way can be.

“ Healthy and nutrient- rich snacks directly to your desk at work for no additional charge.� Nibble Nature 078 329 34052 hello@nibblenature.co.uk www.nibblenature.co.uk Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @nibblenature


’ S E L WA

T S E G G I B RTY

A P A TE

Brew up this Spring ALL MONEY RAISED WILL BE SPENT IN WALES

This Spring, get together with friends, family or work colleagues to hold a tea party for Welsh Hearts. Have a cake sale at school or in the office, or a coffee morning with friends and family to raise much needed funds for Welsh Hearts.

register your tea party It’s quick and easy to register. Visit our website to tell us about your party and to download your free fundraising pack which contains everything you’ll need for your party.

visit us online to register and download your free fundraising pack

welshhearts.org/teaparty

fundraising@welshhearts.org • 029 2240 2670


There is a lot more on offer at Nails In The City than its name suggests. Yes, it’s the go to salon for stunning nails but did you know, it has built an enviable reputation for advanced beauty treatments. City Life chats to owner Anja Gosha about why the salon is so popular.

NAILS IN THE CITY

How is the business going in its new premises in the heart of Cardiff Bay? So far so good! We grew out of our last premises as word-of-mouth got around and our customer base expanded. Even though we moved we still have our regular customers but our new location also offers a lot of new people calling in to find out what we offer. All new customers are amazed with our online booking system and how any person can book a treatment at any time of the day and night online as well as pre-pay for their appointments there and then. What beauty treatments do you offer? Well, nails obviously. They are our passion, something that you can easily see on our social media pages. It is worth mentioning that we don’t use tips for our extensions, we sculpt straight from the template, and with brands such as Shellac, Opi, Essie, and Gelish, you know your nails are in for a treat. But that is not all we do.

In addition to our acrylic and gel nail extensions, plus the basic manicures and pedicures we also offer waxing and threading, eyelash extensions and eye treatments, body massage, facials, semipermanent and cosmetic make-up, hair extensions, and spray tanning.

They don’t need to make several separate appointments all over town. They come here to completely relax and be pampered. Do you have any plans for future? You will just have to wait until the next issue of City Life to find out.

What treatments are proving popular? The biggest hit of the last few weeks has to be our Electrolysis treatments. With Summer quickly approaching everyone wants to be hair free ready for there beach bods. Electrolysis is a progressive treatment that removes unwanted hair within 6 months (and up to 2 years) and completely stops it from growing back. It is the only treatment in UK law that offers permanent hair removal instead of temporary reductions. What do you think makes Nails In The City special? Our clients say that they love the laid back atmosphere and the fact that we are a one-stop-shop for all things beauty related. 29

Nails In The City 54A Bute Street, Cardiff CF10 5AF 07841 433508 www.nailsinthecitycardiff.co.uk Like us on Facebook Instagram - Nails in the city Cardiff


L LANDAFF E S TA B L I S H E D I N 1 97 9

Halls of Llandaff

First appearing along Llandaff’s High Street back in 1979, Halls of Llandaff has continues to remain relevant even after almost forty years in business - quite an achievement. Originally opened as a bookshop by Keith and Jenny Hall, Halls of Llandaff has enjoyed continued success over the last four decades by re-inventing itself with the times and the needs of the local people. Now that 2017 has well and truly begun Pete and Jenny are proud to offer a rustic and unique environment within which you can find an eclectic range of equally rustic and unique items. On display is a wide range of designled greetings cards, a selection of unusual and quirky gifts (perfect for any occasion), stylish scarves, fabulous fashion jewellery, and a whole lot more. So please feel free to visit, a friendly welcome is guaranteed to all that call into Halls of Llandaff. 44 High Street, Cardiff CF5 2DZ 029 2055 2856 Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter

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A new residential nursing home which includes a spa, gym and home cinema claims to be the most luxurious in Cardiff.

LUXURY CARE The multi-million pound development at Tŷ Llandaff is situated in the quiet, leafy suburb of Pontcanna close to Llandaff village and will create more than 80 jobs in the local area.

Tŷ Llandaff in Conway Road has been built to a high standard across three floors with 72 luxurious ensuite bedrooms and offers five-star accommodation and superb facilities on an ‘all inclusive’ basis. Facilities include a home cinema, piano bar, hair salon, luxury spa and therapy rooms, gym, on-site chef and fine dining, accessible beautiful landscaped gardens, and a celebrations room which can be used for private family occasions. Tŷ Llandaff has its own dedicated activities co-ordinator who provides a varied programme of entertainment and activities on a daily basis. There is even a concierge and chauffeur service with a Mercedes-Benz ready to take residents into town which all is covered by the weekly fees. The home is ideally situated for visitors with buses running every 10 minutes to Cardiff city centre with the bus stop just 100 yards away.

The M4 is a four-mile drive, Cardiff central station is three, while Ninian Park train station is one mile away.

Registered Manager Janice Evans, who has more than 30 years of experience managing care homes and is a registered nurse, said: “Our approach is to provide high quality care to all residents, understanding their needs and respecting their choices, while working closely with relatives to be open and transparent at all times. “When you’re choosing a home for yourself or a loved one, it’s important to know all of the facts before you make such an important decision for the longterm. We want our residents to be able to enjoy all that Tŷ Llandaff has to offer, which is why we provide all-inclusive living. It allows our residents to live life to the full and take advantage of all our facilities and activities without having to worry about additional costs. So, whether you’d like a new hairstyle for a family get-together, afternoon tea in the garden or a trip to our cinema, you can enjoy them knowing it’s all included. We have a cinema, spa, salon, gym, chauffeur-driven Mercedes and more! 31

Janice Evans, Registered Manager

We certainly can’t see there being any other care home of this type in the whole of Cardiff which is as luxurious as Tŷ Llandaff.” Ms Evans said she would also be delighted to speak to any suitable candidates who were looking for positions at Tŷ Llandaff. She added: “In total, we expect to create over 80 jobs in the local area - with the recruitment process well underway. If you are interested in a career at Tŷ Llandaff please don’t hesitate to contact me - I’d be delighted to chat more with you.” Tŷ Llandaff has ability to accommodate people for nursing or residential care from the age of 18.

Tŷ Llandaff For more information call Jan on 02920 600 100 info@tyllandaffcare.com www.tyllandaffcare.com


Annie Cartwright, Director, Skin and Face Clinics, was one of the first medical aesthetics practitioners in Cardiff to offer patients a brand new injectable product called Volite to help improve skin quality. City Life finds out more‌

SKIN & FACE CLINICS HAND-PICKED TO CONDUCT AN EVALUATION OF VOLITE

Annie Cartwright

As one of a small, hand-picked group of experienced practitioners invited to conduct a pre-launch evaluation of Volite, Annie has gained firsthand experience of injecting the new product ahead of training other injectors later this year. During the Volite product evaluation, all the patients were invited back to the clinic two weeks after treatment so Annie could evaluate the results and ask their opinions about the treatment experience. This also gave Annie first hand experience of administering Volite before it was officially launched.

Before (Copyright Skin and Face Clinics)

After returning from Prague where she joined expert injectors from 45 nations to share best practice, Annie told us more about the new Volite treatment and why the product is so different from others on the market.

After (Copyright Skin and Face Clinics)

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Prague

What is Volite used for? Volite is a new injectable treatment from the JuvedermŽ family of products. It has been developed for administration just under the skin’s surface to improve the texture and elasticity of the skin and resolve issues such as roughness, dryness, fine lines and scarring. I have found it to be ideal in treating tricky lines around the lips often, but not always, associated with smoking. Why is Volite so different from other products? Even if you are not used to having an injectable treatment, this product is definitely worth a second look. Volite has the capability of hydrating the skin from deep within, achieving results that are simply not possible with moisturisers applied to the surface.

In common with other Juvederm products like Voluma, Volite utilizes the long-lasting Vycross technology. It is the only product of its kind currently available that requires just one treatment, with the results lasting up to six months afterwards, making it an efficient and cost-effective treatment option for my patients. In a recent Volite treatment study, 87% of patients said they would recommend the treatment to a friend, while over 80% of patients said they were more satisfied with their skin six months after treatment. Why do you think skin care is so important? There are interesting cultural differences in the importance we place on skin quality but, generally speaking, the quality and texture of our skin can 33

say a lot about - not just our age - but also our state of health and well-being, and these things in-turn impact the way we feel, the way we see ourselves, and our self-confidence. Why should patients come to your clinic for treatment? We are providing patients with an introductory 18% discount on Volite treatments up to 31st May and I would encourage anyone with issues relating to skin texture considering this brand new treatment to get in touch with us as soon as possible. Skin & Face Clinics Rear 23 High Street, Llandaff Cardiff CF5 2DY 029 2056 7096 www.skinandfaceclinics.com


FITNESS I M P R O V E E V E R Y D AY H E A LT H

Get a GRIP!

Ditch the bad fitness habits of last year with the help of GRIP and their personal training studio. Fitness and everything associated with it is a very individual thing - what may work for one person might not work for someone else. GRIP understands the needs of the individual and helps you achieve your goal through individually created plans that target your specific fitness needs. With five alternate fitness classes that run throughout the day, online aids for those with a hectic schedule, and an on-site sports massage facility with dedicated therapist, GRIP can help with your fitness, no matter what your goal. THE INDUSTRY’S FINEST

Marvyn Bailey Personal Training With a background in rugby, as well as full qualifications in personal training and nutrition, Marvyn Bailey knows exactly how to meet your fitness goals. With not one but two training facilities each packed with world class training equipment, Marvyn Bailey, along with his teams of experts, represent the best in the personal training industry.

“ GRIP understands the needs of the individual.” 58a Clive Road, Canton, Cardiff CF5 1HG Personal Training 07595 463280 Sports Massage 07525 478051 www.gripfitpt.co.uk Find on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram One To One Gym Unit TP4 - TP5, Main Avenue, Treforest Industrial Estate, Pontypridd CF37 5UR Omnium Lifestyle Village 2 Eastern Business Park, Bennett Street, Bridgend CF31 3SH 07882 924541 www.marvynbaileypersonaltraining.co.uk info@marvynbaileypersonaltraining.co.uk Find on Facebook, Twitter & Youtube

Focusing on tried and tested methods founded on the latest industry thinking, Marvyn and his team work alongside each individual client to find the fitness solution that is right for them to ensure it is both enjoyable, and effective. 34


Since qualifying as a personal trainer in 2014, Riccardo Floris has worked with countless people to help them achieve their fitness goals. From rehabilitation and strengthening weak areas to extreme weight loss and/or muscle building and physique development. We spoke to Riccardo to find out just what it takes to get that killer physique.

R ICCARDO FLORIS

“To start with, I pride myself on not just being your average personal trainer. The average personal trainer may give you a general cookiecutter training program with a list of exercises to complete and ‘motivate’ you through the workout. Yet again, in some cases they may not even do that.

Everyone is different. I also teach all of my clients about nutrition and diet flexibility. Being on a ‘diet’ doesn’t mean that you have to eat chicken and broccoli or salads for the rest of your life. We can still eat the foods we enjoy whilst still achieving our fitness goals and getting in shape. The methods I use are not rocket science - it’s just eating and training smart.

“I ensure that all of my clients follow a personalised training program with exercises and workouts tailored to their own personal lifestyle and goals. Everyone is different, meaning people work different hours, eat at different times, train at different times, train on different days, have different social situations, are single, in a relationship or have kids. In order to attain your fitness goals everyone should have a routine designed specifically to them and not be following a generic program that every other person is following.

“ I have helped many people achieve fantastic results.”

“I have helped many people achieve fantastic results from training twice a week compared to other people who train six times a week.

“With Floris Fitness my intention is to reach out to as many people in the world. To show everyone how getting in shape doesn’t have to be a chore and how achievable it really can be. Which is why, as of last year, I have also started online coaching. A new method of personal training; virtually coaching a client through a four, eight or twelve week program where they can train in their own time without having to meet or rely on anyone at the gym. This method allows me to reach out and help people across the world, not just in Cardiff.” 35

The images of Riccardo’s results certainly speak for themselves but, if that wasn’t enough, in September 2016 he won his first Junior Men’s Physique competition for the Welsh Championships UKBFF. This lead him to qualify for the British Finals in Nottingham where he then made top six and placed fifth in Britain for the category. So it is safe to say that if you are willing to put in the work, with the help of Riccardo you will be able to achieve your fitness goals, no matter what they are. Lifestyle Fitness Rover Way Cardiff CF24 2UD www.riccardofloriscoaching.com rpfloris@googlemail.com Instagram: @riccardoflorispt Twitter: @rflorisPT YouTube: Riccardo Floris


Panache Britt Stripe Bandeau bikini - £36 Britt Stripe High waisted pant - £23 From Selfridges and nationwide stockists or from www.panache-lingerie.com

Clarins Pore Perfecting Matifying Kit £33 From good department stores and www.clarins.com

Tutti Rouge Lilliana Bra in Teal (D cup +) - £29.50 Liliana Short in Teal - £15.50 Liliana Brazilian in Teal - £14.50 www.TuttiRouge.com

Cyberjammies Bow Woven Short Sleeve Check Pyjamas £43.50 www.Cyberjammies.co.uk

Favourite T HINGS... MY

Bray Wedge - £75 www.Vandalshoes.com New store opening in the Royal Arcade, Cardiff in May.

Clarins Pore Perfecting Foundation £28

Origins, Flower Fusion Sheet Masks £5.00 www.origins.co.uk

Ferrari Man In Red RRP £52 (100ml) Available from House of Fraser and online at www.houseoffraser.co.uk

Jo Malone London - The Bloomsbury Set, An unconventional life celebrated in scent - Each 30ml Cologne RRP £46 Collection includes: Blue Hyacinth 30ml Cologne, Garden Lilies 30ml Cologne, Leather & Artemisia 30ml Cologne, Tobacco & Mandarin 30ml Cologne, Whisky & Cedarwood 30ml Cologne. Available from all good department stores.

Darphin, Hydraskin All Day Eye Refresh Gel Cream Hydrate, depuff and diminish dark circles £30.00 www.darphin.co.uk 36



Are you a Starter or a Finisher? Do you know? Here’s another question. I’m a High Blue. What colour are you? Confused? Janet Ballard of Cardiff based Chartered Accountants, Lewis Ballard tells us more…

L EWIS BALLARD

Firstly though, a more obvious question. How can you drastically improve business results and keep customers and team happy? The answer is always ‘with better communication.’ “This question troubled us,” explains Jan of Lewis Ballard “Our team are extremely bright, friendly and dedicated and we only work with clients we respect and who respect us. Yet occasionally misunderstandings happened. Despite our best intentions things still went wrong.” “It was very frustrating. Then we met James and things started to make sense…” Connecting people through stronger communication is a life-long ambition of James Knight, Master Practitioner and Creator of iMA. Trained at the world-famous Dale Carnegie Institute, he’s spent decades developing this powerful, yet incredibly simple tool.

iMA doesn’t delve into deep seated personality traits, instead it focusses simply on connecting people and eliminating miscommunication. Used by Coca-Cola, and other top businesses iMA helps us Identify different communication styles, modify our style and pace to match them, and Adapt to their focus. James identified the characteristics of four different communication styles, High Red, High Green, High Blue and High Yellow. Although we are all unique, our style, speed and focus form a natural comfort zone in one of these colours. “Success and happiness come when we appreciate differences and communicate well with everyone, not just the 25% who think and speak like us.” Says James, “We just need to understand other perspectives.” 38

Dislike someone at first? Are you simply communicating on different wave lengths? Clicked straightaway with someone new? You probably share the same iMA colour! This system is particularly powerful in our industry… As natural Finishers, Accountants are often High Greens. Self-contained, methodical and focused on facts and accuracy, with attention to detail. Yet the majority of our clients are High Yellows and High Reds. They’re Starters who think and speak at a faster pace, and focus on the bigger picture. Quick to act, but occasionally lacking follow through. High Reds are self-contained, and results focussed, while creative, fun loving High Yellows are open, and love admiration.


This obvious mismatch of styles between our team and clients led to frustrations on both sides. Yet by Identifying, Modifying and Adapting our team now delivers information as individual clients like it. Quickly getting to the point for High Reds, while praising the success and ideas of High Yellows. Just as High Greens suit accountancy, different industries attract other colours… Two of our clients; an estate agent and a training company, although happy work places, were both getting disappointing results. When the teams completed the iMA questionnaire, we immediately saw why!

But with only open, people focused colours, no-one was monitoring facts or results. Both businesses recruited results focused High Reds and things immediately improved.Not only is iMA transforming our business, it’s transforming our clients’ businesses too. And as trained iMA practitioners we are committed to spreading the word… in whatever style and pace you like! So, what colour are you, your friends and family? Go to www.ima-lewisballard.co.uk and find out now. Lewis Ballard Celtic House, Caxton Place, Pentwyn Cardiff CF23 8HA 029 2073 5502

Both teams were High Yellow, with just one High Blue each.

info@lewisballard.co.uk www.lewisballard.co.uk Follow on Twitter and Google+

Also, Finishers, open, relaxed High Blues are supportive, inclusive and team orientated. 39


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Anne, who is based has seaside town of Penarth in the Vale BasedininPenarth, the beautiful helped hundreds people from all over Of of Glamorgan, I mostly work with local people in the Vale, the country (and fromand abroad) get Wales. My clients come from all Cardiff acrosstoSouth walks of life.emotionally I work with men, well both physically and and women and children although I never work with children without a parent being often helps people in business. present. For more information, please visit www.annerodgershealer.co.uk

Anne works with people from all walks of life. She helps men, like women anda consultation, please call me on If you’d to book children. When029 working children, 2035with 0118. Anne always insists on a parent being My first book, The God Conclusion, present. is available to buy at £10 including postage packing. If you want to find out and more about It tells my and has stories, many testimonials Anne’s gift and story her healing then from people I have worked with.

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her first book, The God Conclusion, will explain how her gift would was first to please If you likegiven a copy, her and includes many testimonials send a cheque for £10from made out people that shetohas worked with. Anne Rodgers to: The Life Publishing God ConclusionGood is available to buy now.

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It can be hard to find a restaurant that is as Truly Italian as I Giardini di Sorrento outside of the country itself. With a delicious array of authentic home-made dishes and wines available, stepping inside transports you to the very heart of beautiful Sorrento.

I GIARDINI DI SORRENTO

Having been born in Sorrento and worked for many years in the family delicatessen on Corso Italia, Massimo Fraioli collaborated with his friends, Gaetano Monteriso (a talented chef from Naples with a passion for authentic flavours), and award winning Head Chef Gianni (previously worked in five star hotels in Sorrento, Rome and Switzerland), to create a restaurant that brings the authentic flavours of the Sorrentine Peninsula to the very heart of the Cardiff. I Giardini di Sorrento when translated means “The Garden of Sorrento”, with its’ Piazza Tasso on the ground floor, and its’ ‘Giardini’ on the first floor with a total 70 covers welcomes any celebration big or small, and can even cater for external events if booked in advance.

One of their signature dishes is the filled ravioli with choices such as salmon, sea bass & hake, chicken, lobster, or even duck & pear. However, when you visit don’t forget to seek out their ‘Specials Board’, that highlights seasonal dishes available, such as Lobster, T-Bone Welsh Steak, Homemade Green Basil Pasta, Sea Bass, Black Squid ink Spaghetti and Wild Boar or Venison Ragu. Just when you think it can’t get better you are given an array of home-made desserts that may include a traditional mascarpone tiramisu, cheesecake made with three cheeses, rum baba, delizia al limone and if you’re lucky even a cannoli with ricotta and pear. I Giardini di Sorrento’s dream of bringing Italy to South Wales certainly has been achieved. 44

April 2017 will see the first anniversary of I Giardini di Sorrento, and to celebrate, Massimo, Gaetano and Gianni are busy creating new dishes for the Spring and Summer 2017 menu. To celebrate they are running a birthday promotion, ‘Born to Sparkle’, that offers any birthday person with three or more friends, a complementary bottle of fine Prosecco to take home, to continue their celebrations in true Italian style, visit www.i-giardini.com for details.

“ A truly authentic Italian menu.” I Giardini di Sorrento 12 City Road, Cardiff CF24 3DL 029 2048 6580 or 07703 429185 www.i-giardini.com ciao@i-giardini.com


We live in a time where due to better healthcare and advances in science we are able to enjoy life for longer than previous generations. We never know what is around the corner but we know that many people experience difficulties with their mental health and need to be prepared for that. It’s good to be prepared.

CJCH SOLICITORS

Here at CJCH we meet lots of people, of all ages, who come to us for advice who are concerned about safeguarding their future affairs.

This causes a great deal of stress for everyone involved because a person’s finances cannot be accessed or their property cannot be managed or sold.

Where possible we try to assist them by arranging a Lasting Power of Attorney in respect of their property and financial affairs. A Lasting Power of Attorney is a legal document that a person can have drafted which allows them to appoint someone of their choosing to act as their attorney if they are no longer able to manage things themselves in the future. An attorney would be able to have access to a person’s property and financial affairs to help pay bills, manage investments and pay care home fees. An attorney is always under a duty to act in the person’s best interest at all times.

In order to resolve this our team of experienced lawyers represent families in making applications to the Court of Protection so that family members can be appointed as Deputies to manage a person’s property and financial affairs. CJCH Solicitors can also be appointed as professional deputies if no family members are able to act. Once the Court has approved an application the family members who have applied will be able to access a person’s finances and manage the sale of a property under a Court Order. The Majority of applications to the Court are straight forward and dealt with on paper and do not require any attendance at Court. If you would like to speak with us for a free consultation you can contact our Mr John Moore (solicitor) who specialises in this area at Williams House, 11-15 Columbus Walk, Cardiff, CF10 5BY. Tel 02920 483181 or e mail j.moore@cjch.co.uk

Sadly, however, many people that we meet have loved ones who have not set up a Lasting Power of Attorney and no longer have the mental capacity, whether by illness or accident, to be able to do so. We often find that family members hit a brick wall when dealing with banks and buildings societies who will of course only deal with the account holder themselves. As there is no one legally able to act for the person it means that there are often situations where bills and care fees cannot be paid.

“ An attorney is always under a duty to act in the person’s best interest at all times.” 45

John Moore

Cardiff Office 11-15 Columbus Walk Cardiff CF10 5BY 02920 483181 j.moore@cjch.co.uk Vale Office 17 Thompson Street, Barry Vale of Glamorgan CF63 4JL 01446 420043 j.moore@cjch.co.uk Bridgend Office 18 Dunraven Place, Bridgend CF31 1JD 01656 457466 www.cjchsolicitors.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and Linkedin


After qualifying in 2010 and with seven years’ experience in clinic and salon environments, Suzanne Lazim opened her own - LaserWise Skin and Beauty Clinic. Specialising in cutting edge laser treatments using state-of-the-art technology, as well as offering the latest beauty treatments, LaserWise opened in June 2015 and Suzanne has already been awarded two prestigious awards.

THE WISE CHOICE

City Life spoke to Suzanne at her clinic on Whitchurch Road. Suzanne, congratulations on your awards. Thank you very much. We’re thrilled to have won The Regional Awards, Beauty Industry Award 2016 and also Local Link magazine’s Business of the Year 2016. It’s a testament to the fantastic team I have working here that we’ve achieved this. It proves having a great team with exceptional customer service skills really does pay off. Apart from winning awards, what else has been happening at LaserWise since we last spoke? We’re delighted to have welcomed two new members of staff, Lauren and Stacey, who have both recently started at the clinic and have fitted in extremely well. They are both fully trained in beauty and are now in the process of being trained in laser.

Treatment wise, we’ve invested in a skin scope analysis machine which looks at the skin in UV light to reveal what’s happening under the skin such as dehydration, sun damage and much more. This helps us to give a client a more detailed analysis, enabling us to provide a more in-depth treatment and skin care plan. What treatments can City Life readers take advantage of here? We specialise in lasers treatments which include hair removal, tattoo removal, pigmentation, skin rejuvenation, vein removal, acne treatment, and elimination of nail fungus. Our superb skin treatments include our signature steam facials, skin peels, microdermabrasion, CACI nonsurgical face lifts, and electrolysis.

“ We’re delighted to have welcomed two new members of staff.” 46

On the beauty side, we offer semi-permanent make up, Gelish nails, waxing, tinting, ear piercing, and the ever popular eye lash lift/perm. What are the most popular treatments at your Clinic? They would be laser hair removal, tattoo removal and CACI non-surgical face lifts at the moment. As tattoos have become more fashionable and accepted over the years, we’ve noticed a major increase in tattoo removal. People are either removing very old tattoos permanently or fading them enough to have them covered up and redesigned. We find that this treatment helps tattoo artists with their job of covering up, as there is a lot less ink to cover, giving a better finish on the new tattoo.


Laser Hair Removal has always been popular with women and now, increasingly, with men. Men are more aware of their appearance and more likely to take action into making themselves look and feel better these days. We also treat transgender, who are transforming from male to female and want to remove their facial and body hair. Laser hair removal overall is becoming more affordable, and with the use of these great machines they are giving amazing results.

Do you have any plans for the future? Over the last eighteen months we’ve seen the business increase, so expansion is on our minds at the moment; whether it’s extending the clinic or opening more hours. We now have more staff in place so watch this space.

“ Laser Hair Removal has always been popular with women and now, increasingly, with men”

Laserwise Skin & Beauty Clinic 202 Whitchurch Road Cardiff CF14 3NB 029 2132 2424

CACI are renowned as one of the best non-surgical facial treatments available; our clients are thrilled with the results which are remarkable, and great confidence boosters.

www.laserwiseclinic.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter 47


Giovanni’s parents, Domenico and Antonia Malacrino, came to Wales more than fifty years ago and, like many Italians, forged a new life and helped create the great Welsh/Italian culture that we are all so fond of.

GIOVANNI’S Giovanni started his career working in bars collecting glasses before he became a chef. His job gave him the opportunity to travel the world, meet famous people, socialise with different cultures and, most importantly, get paid for having such a great time. It was here he decided to dedicate his life to the hospitality business. “After travelling the world working on cruise liners, I was lucky to become an instrumental part in opening a restaurant in the US called the Fox and Hounds in Colts Neck New Jersey alongside friends Ron and Linda Bird, Ron has been my mentor for many years and it is because of him that I discovered my love of helping others, by paying it forward the way Ron Bird showed me. ‘When i left New Jersey I returned home, not to Italy, but to the wonderful city of Cardiff. It was here that I opened Giovanni’s Restaurant on the Hayes which has since become a mainstay of the city centre, so much so that is is now one of the longest running Italian restaurants in the entire of Wales, having recently won ‘Best Italian Restaurant of the Year’ for the second time.” Never one to stand still, Giovanni continues to expand his future empire on a daily basis.

Opposite Cardiff ’s New Theatre is where you will find Giovanni’s Park Place restaurant. Here, on a very regular basis, you will find many of the celebrities that are performing in the New Theatre as they pop over during their breaks to enjoy some of his delicious food. In the past, Giovanni’s has enjoyed looking after the likes of Sir Tom Jones, Enrique Iglesias, Luci-ano Pavarotti, Dame Shirley Bassey, Danny O’Donoghue from The Script, and world famous Barry Manilow Joe Calzaghe, and of course Robbie Savage as well as hundreds more. Even with all of these famous faces looking for a table in his restaurant, it is actually his customers that Giovanni believes to be the real celebrities, which means that he takes extra special pride in serving each and every person that comes through his door, providing them with authentic produce that has been imported straight from Italy as well as sourcing the very best from local suppliers. Giovanni’s managers, head chefs, and every member of his restaurant team treat every customer like a part of the family. Perhaps most easily seen when you are greeted by Francesca, Giovanni’s sister and backbone of Giovanni’s group. 48

Talking with Giovanni, City Life learned what was the next plan for his empire and also how he sur-vived when things got tough when the building of the St Davids Shopping centre development made that part of the city centre practically a no-go area. “Going forward, we are planning a private dining restaurant and Nightclub on Mill Lane in Cardiff. Here we will be able to tailor make a completely private special business or pleasure event for you. ‘Our Mill Lane location is also where you can enjoy an authentic Italian cookery experience that will see you learn how to prepare a range of dishes included a beautiful plate of Fettuccini Matribolo-gna, a catch of the day seafood special, or a classic Neapolitan pizza of your choice, as well as discovering the correct way to cook a succulent steak. But that is not all! The location is also avail-able to hire for filming, training and development, and product launches. Giovanni adds: “After owning nightclubs for many years in Cardiff, including the infamous Number 10 Club, I finally decided to sell them and find a proper hobby. This led to the creation of my very own Italian sauce label that is soon to be launched, as well as co-writing my first book with mind Coach Steven Truelove.


I have also set up Gio’s charity funding program and my very own private petting zoo with thanks to Amanda. This was created so that children with learning difficulties can come along with their parents, teachers, or minders and enjoy time with the animals. Such interac-tion has been proven to be beneficial to the children by reducing stress and anxiety, and also teaching them about responsibility and care.” Gio is also now looking foe a small farm to expand the petting zoo to be open to the public. Giovanni is also a recognised life coach having been taught by world famous people such as An-thony Robbins, Paul McKenna, Richard Bandler, and many more including the aforementioned, local mind coach Steven Truelove. Continuing forwards in his bid for world domination, Giovanni expressed his passion for presenting on television. Having appeared on many TV programmes and shows, Giovanni is comfortable in front of the cameras, so much so that he hosts his own Facebook Live programme called ‘Come Dine with G from Italy’ every Wednesday at 8pm from his studios, cookery school or wherever he is. To watch simply search ‘Giovanni Malacrino’ Link on Facebook and make sure you are availa-ble Wednesday from 8pm.

When discussing his favourite project Giovanni could not help but gush over Mill Lane The street Street where people eat that pioneered the birth of Cardiff ’s Cafe Quarter the first in the UK ( “I’m still waiting for the council to build the statue in my honour” he laughed as he told us about the cafe quarter.) along with the help and support of Chris Quinn, Michael Eddershaw, Nick Hamilton, as well as the police licensing, the fire department, and the local council. “Enjoying an al fresco dining experience in Cardiff, the way the locals do in Italy, is very important and has led to the cafe’s quarters continued success for over twenty years with tourists still able to enjoy a similar experience to one they have abroad. So if you’d like my advice, listen to these words. If you want to make a difference to your street, town or city then do so throw that pebble in to the pond and watch the ripples grow.” “I am passionate about creating magic moments for everyone possibly can. I sponsor at Cardiff City FC, Miss Wales, Miss Universe Great Britain, and anything else that brings attention to my adopted city of Cardiff. But there is nothing better than seeing an overjoyed face in any of my busi-nesses after we have strived to provided an amazing time.” 49

Giovanni is extremely vocal in his appreciation of those he counts on for support. “None of this would have been possible without the continued help and support of my closest fami-ly and friends. My thanks will forever extend to Colin Murfit, Martyn Ward, Neil Bollard, David, Mar-tin Pursell, and especially to the Hurley family who were our first customers and continue to visit to this day. A special thank you to Marisa who blessed me with two children, my daughter Ileana who has just graduated from university and of whom I am very proud, and my son Gianluca who’s an actor in LA and has played a main role in Criminal Minds, Greys Anatomy, and Distant Vision, a film by Francis Ford Coppola, the director of The Godfather.” We asked Giovanni what he believes to be the key ingredient to making dreams come true. His answer was simply ‘gratitude’. Giovanni’s on The Hayes (No.38) Cardiff CF10 1AJ 029 2022 0077 Giovanni’s in Park Place (No.8) Cardiff CF10 3DP 029 2022 6299 www.giovanniscardiff.com Giovannis Cookery School 10-11 Mill Lane,Cardiff, CF10 1FL 07715 207128 or 02920 678707 Like and find on Facebook, Twitter, TripAdvisor, Google+ and Pinterest


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R ADYR FOUNDED IN 2006

Andrew Cox Barbering

Helping clients look their best for more than a decade by staying up-todate with the latest trends and styles. Andrew Cox has built a talented team consisting of the very best precision barbers he could find. Each has been impeccably trained, guaranteeing that you’ll be in good hands with any member of his talented team. With a brand new refurbishment Andrew Cox Barbering continually strive to give clients the best possible experience, the team have cultivated their skills to help keep you ahead of the game. 1 Station Road, Radyr CF15 8AA 029 2084 4821 www.andrewcoxbarbering.com Like on Facebook and Instagram

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Ask most people in Radyr and they’ll tell you it feels like a healthy place to live. Contributing to the residents’ good eye health is Radyr Eyecare - offering all the services that you would expect from a local optician… and then some.

R ADYR EYE CARE

Established by the current owner, Mrs Sara Ward, just over ten years ago, the practice has gone from strength to strength, and now draws a satisfied clientele from all over South Wales and beyond - as well, of course, as tending to the needs of local Radyr residents. “Radyr has been an ideal location,” says Sara, who is herself a Welshspeaking native of Cardiff (and can therefore examine eyes in Welsh if her patients wish - up to 20% do). “We offer a wide range of services; from eye examinations for very young children, to Low Vision Aids for older patients who have significant visual impairment. People from Radyr are very friendly and open, and very receptive to new services and technology. They appreciate our wide range of fashionable, designer frames, and also appreciate the in-depth advice we offer when choosing new spectacles or contact lenses.” Typical of the type of new, specialist services that Sara has introduced is ‘Ortho K’.

These are contact lenses that are worn overnight, and correct your vision while you sleep, so they can be taken out in the morning but leave you with corrected vision. “They are highly suitable for short-sighted teenagers as there is some evidence to indicate they help reduce the progression of myopia. They are also particularly useful for outdoor activities such as sailing, or for contact sports such as rugby - so where better to offer them than Cardiff!” Sara has also invested in high tech instrumentation, including a 3D scanner called an OCT. This takes a completely painless and non-invasive 3D scan of the back of the eye, similar to the way that an MRI scans other parts of the body. These scans reveal the multiple layers of the retina in a way that is not otherwise possible. “The advantage of this instrument is that it can reveal early stages of many conditions, such as macular degeneration and macular hole. We can also see possible changes of the optic disc due to glaucoma, changes that could not be seen otherwise and that will respond well to early treatment,” says Sara. 52

All this, and the guaranteed warm, friendly and relaxed atmosphere in the practice, are excellent reasons to visit Radyr for your eyecare and eye health needs.

Radyr Eye Care 14 Station Road, Radyr CF15 8AA 029 2084 2255 www.radyr-eyecare.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter


After taking over the garage near Radyr Train Station in December 2012, owners Andrew Jones and James Greenman fulfilled a dream they shared since first meeting several years earlier the dream of owning their own garage.

R ADYR GARAGE

That dream now benefits the people of Radyr who are in the capable hands of these two passionate and handy entrepreneurs. But how did it all start?

Over the years Andrew and James have built a wonderful team around them, with friendly staff that will do everything they can to help customers and provide exemplary service.

Andrew started his apprenticeship in 1980 before going to work on the vehicles of the South Wales Police. After more than thirteen years in the role he decided to strike out on his own, becoming self employed and setting up Llanishen Garage, his first MOT and vehicle repair workshop. James came along shortly after and proved to be a very promising young apprentice, however the pair were soon separated as James took an opportunity to travel the world, not returning until 2007 when Andrew snapped him up as quickly as he could.

The garage is conveniently located in the car park of Radyr Train station, with private parking at the entrance of the garage as well as in the yard at the back, allowing customers easy access to nearby shops or places of business whilst their cars are being worked on.

The opportunity to buy Radyr Garage arose a few years later and the pair jumped at the chance to become equal partners, starting the business that is still around today, serving the people of Radyr with their combined fifty years of experience as light vehicle technicians.

Unlike car insurance or vehicle tax, the DVLA does not send out reminders for when an MOT is due and this often leads to missed appointments, something that can affect insurance claims. However, once a vehicle has been MOT’d at Radyr Garage, they will

send you a reminder the following year to avoid customers forgetting this important safety check and legal requirement. Now if that isn’t great service we don’t know what is!

What’s on offer? MOTs, services, vehicle repairs, tyres and brakes, engine diagnostics and great customer service. If customers have difficulty getting the car to the garage then a local pick-up and drop-off service can be arranged.

Radyr Garage Station Road, Radyr CF15 8AA 029 2084 4437 www.radyrgarage.co.uk


You may already know Cicchetti in Radyr as a restaurant but this fabulous eatery is rapidly gaining a reputation as a high quality deli customer demand for its products has grown immeasurably since being opened by the Florimonte family.

C ICCHETTI DELI EATERY & PAVEMENT CAFE

Fantastic restaurant notwithstanding, it’s the deli that’s the secret worth sharing. The produce is second to none, including many which are flown in over dry ice from Italy and you certainly won’t find many of these items on the supermarket shelves. The artisan bread is made by a sixth generation baker, Fabrice Ponteville. The product range typifies the simple, healthy quality of Mediterranean cuisine which brings a real authenticity to the table - the aromas, the tastes and the vibrant colours is reminiscent of the local market. For example, their extra virgin olive oil comes from the family’s olive farm in the Cilento region of Southern Italy, where the sun shines for almost nine months of the year. Customers can bring their own bottles to fill up too how easy is that?”

Imported weekly, Cicchetti’s Pisciottano olives, fruits and vegetables, salami, cheeses and Parma ham are simply gorgeous. The decor has a modern, stylish, contemporary feel but the wood brings a warmth to the table and the rustic wood flooring creates a friendly, authentic ambience it’s very welcoming and uplifting for the soul. There’s a bar where you can sit and enjoy your favourite tipple (Italian of course) and a number of wooden tables for when you want to stay a little longer over breakfast, lunch, dinner or Sunday lunch. With such a quality offering, it’s not surprising that the restaurant is busy and the deli getting busier. City Life called in on a Thursday lunchtime and it was buzzing, with a mix of locals and Italians. 54

We hear the Italians only eat and shop here for its true, authentic produce and atmosphere. What’s also enchanting is that the staff are all Italian, so you know that this really is an authentic family business. Cicchetti is fully licensed and the extensive beer and wine list, included Super Tuscan Sassicaia, Tignanello, and many more from small independent producers. If you haven’t visited Cicchetti before, then we urge you to go and stock up. We promise you, you’ll thank us for letting you in on this real Radyr gem.


Cicchetti 8 Station Road, Radyr, Cardiff CF15 8AA 029 2084 8773 Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter 55


Beauty and skincare go hand in hand, and we can’t stress highly enough the importance of a good skincare regime, and the use of a good sunscreen throughout the whole year. In addition, we all want to look good for our age; fresh, natural looking, and well-rested - quite simply, the best version of ourselves we can possibly be.

DAWN A ESTHETIC CLINIC

Dawn Richardson of The Dawn Clinic, Penarth is a former nurse with many years’ experience in skin care and non-invasive procedures. She shares her thoughts with us.

Our anti wrinkle injections and botulinum toxin treatments target frown lines and crow’s feet – we inject the muscles which temporarily reduces muscle activity in the areas injected.

Without wishing to turn to facial surgery we’re increasingly turning to tailored facial rejuvenation treatments to deliver a super effective way to refresh our appearance with no down time.

Following the injections you will notice a visible smoothing of your crow’s feet lines and the frown lines between your brows.

Full sensuous lips have long been associated with beauty and youth. We’re increasingly seeing young clients for lip augmentation which alters the appearance of the lips by increasing their fullness through injectable fillers, achieving natural looking fuller lips and a more defined smile.

Healthy young skin contains collagen that gives it volume, elasticity and strength. As part of the natural ageing process, collagen breaks down – it’s this gradual loss of collagen and elastin in the lower layer of the skin which contributes to wrinkles, facial lines and slacker skin. Marionette lines and smile lines are made increasingly obvious as facial volume begins to deplete. 56

This will result in the face looking tired, and sometimes even angry or sad when we’re not, and reduces the youthful appearance of your face considerably. Replenishing lost volume and providing lift are two keys to diminishing the appearance of facial wrinkles, lines and folds. A non-invasive and longlasting treatment for these typical signs of ageing can be performed with an injectable dermal filler such as Radiesse+®, which provide natural looking, immediately and long lasting results.

“Healthy young skin contains collagen that gives it volume, elasticity and strength.”


One of our most popular treatments has to be the new PDO lift which tightens sagging tissues and is a great alternative to the surgical face lift. This lift redefines facial contours and induces collagen production – the effects of which can last for up to 2-3 years.

between the sexes when it comes to facial treatments. So, for a fresh new look and a newly restored dose of confidence isn’t it time to take the first step on your journey to a more refreshed you today.

We’re increasingly seeing male clients who would like a more chiselled profile; a sharp masculine jawline, a more structured look to their cheekbones. After all, looking rugged is one thing – having wrinkles and frown lines is quite another – which is what coined the term ‘brotox’.

What clients’ say...

We have extensive training and knowledge on facial aesthetics for both men and women of all ages, and of course in the differences

TESTIMONIALS

“Dawn can always be relied upon to provide a very attentive, professional service. After having anti wrinkle treatments and a PDO thread lift on my lower face and neck I am thrilled with the natural looking results. I look younger and rested and no longer avoid the mirror.” “I have been seeing Dawn for approximately five years now, she is amazing and I would recommend her to anyone.” 57

Dawn Aesthetic Clinic 110 Westborne Road, Penarth CF64 3HH 07830 520275 www.dawnclinic.com Like and follow on Facebook


When was the last time you had a professional review your finances? As one of the country’s longest established and largest independent financial advisers, people regularly seek our advice on their investments, insurance, pensions and many other vital financial matters. In fact, more than 15,000 clients trust us with the ongoing management of their financial affairs. We believe that’s because our advice is completely independent, and tailored to them. We do not offer one-size-fits-all solutions. We are proud of what we do, and we work hard to be the best at it. Our peers and the media recognise this, and we are delighted to have won numerous awards for our services: – Unbiased Media Awards, Tax Planning Adviser of the Year 2016 – Unbiased Media Awards, Financial Adviser of the Year 2016, Runner-up – Scotland on Sunday IFA of the Year, Runner-up – thewealthnet Top 25 Financial Planning Companies 2015

If it’s been more than a year or perhaps never, take advantage of a complimentary examination of your financial health – and how to enhance it. Call Sean Hollyman on 02920 436161 or email sean.hollyman@chasedevere.co.uk to arrange your free initial consultation. It will be fully confidential and without any obligation. 2 Caspian Point | Pierhead Street | Cardiff Waterside | Cardiff | CF10 4DQ


Known for its fantastic range of nail and beauty services, as well as the now infamous Vanicure mobile beauty van, Nail Divas offers everything you could ever need when it comes to beauty and nails, including accredited nail training academy courses!

NAIL DIVAS

Not satisfied with being one of the best at nail and beauty care, owner Sian Llewellyn set up a registered charity called Fourteen A LTD in order to meet the needs of those who simply could not afford to go back to college full-time but wanted a new career within the beauty industry. The charity’s training department, known as the Nail Divas Training Academy, is where the magic happens. Designed to fit around any schedule, the academy offers short and intensive training that can be taken in full-time, part-time, evening, and weekend courses that are accessible throughout the year to allow students to being their courses at times that best suit them. There are also discounts available to those who are currently out of work, making it financially easier to start the career of your dreams. The choice of courses available now numbers more than fifty, with everything from nail and beauty, to holistic and massage courses on offer. Nail technology (acrylic or gel) Covering all aspects of nail technology with comprehensive course notes covering safety and hygiene, nail disorders, nail preparation, tipping and blending techniques, sculpting, resins and adhesives, and much more.

GEL POLISH Covering the latest techniques in Gel Polishes including the 3 week manicure/ pedicure. WARM WAXING Covering all areas of face and body waxing. TANNING (COSMETIC) The convenience of gaining a tan without the associated health risks. This course guides you through the process of applying both spray and cream tan products. DIVA BROW Produce the perfect brow using exclusive sculpting techniques. Covering anatomy and physiology, health and safety, client consultation and brow shape assessment plus a demonstration of the revolutionary Diva Brow techniques. DIVA LASH BOOST Augment and amplify natural lashes with an all-in-one process. MANICURE Covering the manicure procedure, anatomy, physiology, hygiene, nail preparation, and spa manicure techniques.

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PEDICURE Covering the entire pedicure procedure, anatomy, physiology, hygiene, nail preparation, and spa manicure techniques. FACIALS Covers how to provide expert facials and diagnose and treat different skin types and conditions, plus lessons in face and neck massage. NATIONAL ACCREDITATION Fourteen A LTD is nationally accredited and is a registered learning provider for the Welsh Government, Careers Wales, and WCVA with highly qualified practitioners on hand to tutor in a friendly and supportive atmosphere to help ensure that learners will have a successful outcome, no matter the skill level when first applying. For more information visit Nail Divas website or call in for a chat.

Nail Divas 3 Bishops Road Whitchurch CF14 2AT 029 2060 6458 www.naildivas.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter


We all need to escape the hustle and bustle every once in a while, and recharge our batteries. Sudbury House is based on the edge of the Cotswolds and has everything you need for that relaxing, luxurious break.

SUDBURY HOUSE

Location, location… Nestling on the edge of the Cotswolds between Oxford and Swindon, Sudbury House is in a good location within easy access of the M4 and M40. Having been completely refurbished and renovated in 2015, the hotel offers four-star accommodation and facilities with 49 en-suite bedrooms, all with complimentary Wi-Fi and car parking. The hotel is home to two restaurants and a lounge bar and is located on the edge of the Cotswolds in the picturesque market town of Faringdon. Steeped in history... Located in a Grade II listed building now adjoined to Sudbury House Hotel is Restaurant 56. The building, originally a distinguished Georgian house previously owned by Sir William Glock (BBC Controller of Music) is boasts a fine dining 28 cover restaurant, Restaurant 56 and bar.

The hotel offers a relaxed informal environment and the Magnolia Brasserie is open daily serving a selection of traditional British and European dishes. What about the décor? The style of the hotel is classic with a hint of contemporary. The new luxury suite in the Grade II listed part of Sudbury House has been recently redesigned using the skills of one of the front of house team, Melissa Hartell, who studied Art & Design at Abingdon College. The suite, comprising bedroom with bathroom leading off and spacious lounge has been decorated using shades of coffee and taupe and offers everything that guests would want in terms of luxury, from an amazingly comfortable super king-size bed, crisp Egyptian cotton bed linen, luxurious gowns to slip on and a large freestanding bath. To see Melissa’s stunning work and enjoy a night of pure indulgence, to stay 60

in the Suit 57, accommodation starts at £350 per night with special dining packages available. What about the food? Sudbury House has two restaurants; the Magnolia Brasserie and the fine dining restaurant which is located in the Grade II listed building and has been transformed through sensitive refurbishment and redecoration. It has antique furniture, sculptures and stunning artwork. At the helm is award winning chef, Andrew Scott. Choose from a la carte or the Chef ’s Tasting Menu. The food, presentation and service here is impeccable. Don’t just take our word for it, check out the reviews on TripAdvisor for more.

“ The style of the hotel is classic with a hint of contemporary.”


What about awards? The AA awarded the restaurant 3AA Rosettes and The Oxfordshire Restaurant Awards presented the restaurant the coveted “Gastronomic Restaurant” of the Year at the 2015 ceremony. The Sudbury House Hotel was also presented with the new AA Four Star Silver Award for the whole “guest and diner” experience offered by the hotel and the Magnolia Brasserie. And when you’re not eating and drinking… A short walk from the hotel is Folly Hill featuring the Faringdon Folly. Lord Berners was a larger-thanlife gentleman and built the tower to tease his neighbours. At the time, he insisted it would be entirely useless but today the views from the tower are remarkable and well worth the 104 steps. Throughout Folly Hill, and indeed the town of Faringdon, visitors

may spot brightly coloured doves, these follow the eccentric behaviour of Lord Berners who himself dyed his flock of doves in colours of the rainbow. What is there to see and do around Faringdon? As well as the Folly Tower, you could visit the Old Town Hall, All Saint’s Church, Great Coxwell Barn, White Horse Hill and Badbury Clump to name but a few. If you’re a shopper (like me!) then a visit to the Designer Outlet Shopping Village in Bicester is a must! Sudbury House 56 London Street, Faringdon Oxfordshire SN7 7AA 01367 241272 stay@sudburyhouse.co.uk www.sudburyhouse.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter 61


Cardiff ’s new all-day dining hotspot has arrived. Sleek, sexy and stylish with a menu bursting with Welsh regional produce and a drinks list that brings elegant martinis and classic G&T’s to the fore - welcome to Grey. This brand-new restaurant with its floor to ceiling windows overlooking Cardiff Castle is causing quite a stir in Wales’ capital city.

GREY WILL SEE YOU NOW

Head Chef Mark Freeman (previously of Laguna Kitchen & Bar) has created a menu that covers breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner and everything in-between. Contemporary interiors and stunning cocktails complete the Grey picture. First things first… How do you like your eggs in the morning? Grey’s Hatch Menu offers eight different ways to enjoy this breakfast staple: from Instagramfavourite crushed avocado and chilli on rye toast finished with a poached freerange hen’s egg, to a three-egg omelette with smoked haddock and Caerphilly cheese and the corned beef hash with HP sauce, watercress and a poached hen’s egg or fried duck egg.

Homemade granola, wholesome porridge, and warm pastries fresh from the kitchen will keep you fuelled until lunch. Lunch and dinner Whether popping in for a business lunch or catching up with friends over dinner, there’s a dish to suit every taste. Keep things casual with the Grey Croque Monsieur wrapped in Carmarthen ham and oozing with Welsh rarebit; or choose the decadent ultimate lobster club sandwich. Other signature must-tries include the sesame seared tuna loin with oriental salad with wasabi and the Cefn Mawr steaks, all cooked and served on a Himalayan pink salt stone. 62

A special treat for tea There’s an array of indulgent afternoon teas at Grey. Dainty finger sandwiches are filled with all the classics including Severn & Wye smoked salmon; Caerphilly cheese; and ham with grain mustard. Move onto iconic Welsh cakes and warm buttermilk scones topped with sticky strawberry jam and Cornish clotted cream, before diving into a selection of miniature cakes, pastries and desserts. Make it a real celebration with a glass of Heidseck Monopole Rośe Champagne or a cocktail. Something to sip Indulge your inner Bond with a bespoke martini or classic G&T crafted by Grey’s expert mixologists.


Using locally-sourced Eccentric Gin, based in the cellars of a building which has stood in Llantrisant for over 200 years, the gin is distilled with natural spring water that runs beneath the floors of the basement giving it a distinctive flavour. Choose from the Geneva with Madame Geneva Rouge, citrus and liquorice; the Cardiff Tea Party with Cardiff Dry Gin, rosemary and lemongrass; and the Oakccentric with Limbeck Gin. Grey’s extensive wine list features a beautiful selection of European, South American and New World sips alongside a selection of local craft beers.

Modern Welsh cuisine matched with elegant cocktails in the heart of Cardiff may seem like a tall order, but let Grey lead the way. We know the perfect place.

Grey’s Restaurant Hilton Cardiff, Kingsway Cardiff, CF10 3HH 029 2064 6400 www.greyrestaurant.co.uk Instagram & Twitter: @GREYrestaurant Facebook /greycardiff

“An array of indulgent afternoon teas.” 63


Voted best in the West Midlands in the 2016 Wedding Industry Awards, family run Good Intents provide marquee hire and event organisation services throughout the UK. Wye Life chats with owners Bruce and Lucy Schofield at their Ledbury base.

GOOD INTENTS

Why Good Intents? And how did you get involved? We first met at agricultural college. Years later we both left agriculture to work for Lucy’s family marquee businesses, manufacturing and hiring marquees. These businesses were subsequently taken over and, in 2003, we decided to do our own thing. We knew of Good Intents, it had been going since 1985 but the owners were ready to retire. We bought the business and moved it from Droitwich to Ledbury, and grew from there.

days, graduations and open days, equestrian and rugby hospitality (not on the same site, I hasten to add), and any other excuse for a jolly good party, or any requirement for a large white tent! Wow! And what makes your business stand out from other marquee companies? We are innovative, bespoke and certainly not the norm; we embrace peoples’ ideas and vision, and bring

their dreams to reality. We offer the personal touch; Lucy is mainly in the office pulling the strings, while I carry out site visits. We employ five full-time staff, and several more casual seasonal workers, although the season seems to be lengthening every year! We usually only run one site at a time, so that I can supervise, and I, or a senior manager, will usually be present on site during the event to ensure that everything runs smoothly. We have a variety of shapes and sizes of marquee, seating up to around 800 guests under one roof. Do you provide other services as well as marquee hire? Absolutely. We can be a one-stopshop, providing flooring, lighting and electrics, interior décor, furniture, dance floors, posh loos, catering facilities, bars, chillout furniture, and even mirrorballs! We also provide very effective heating solutions for our marquees, particularly in the winter months! We can source pretty much

What are your marquees used for? We’ve been involved with pretty much any kind of marquee hire that you can imagine. Weddings will doubtless always be our core business, but we also provide marquees for birthday parties (all ages), anniversaries, charity balls, festivals, home and garden shows, corporate hospitality, product launches, Christmas parties, opera festivals, (bear with), school and university speech 64


anything, and deliver it all with our own fleet of transport. We can recommend caterers, florists, bands and other suppliers who we have worked with. What areas do you cover, and how can our readers book your services? We can install our marquees anywhere in the UK (and beyond!), but most of our work is within sixty miles of Ledbury. We have recently supplied Llangoed Hall, Flanesford Priory, Eastnor Castle and Glewstone Court. In fact we’re supplying the marquee for the Wedding Showcase at Glewstone on Saturday

October 8th and we’ll be attending, so hopefully lots of people will pop along and say hello, we’re very friendly! Potential clients can request a quotation by phone or email. We produce 2d and 3d visuals of your marquee so that you can see exactly what you are getting. What are your plans for the future? We’ve already taken lots of bookings for 2017 and 2018. We aim to grow organically, always improving and staying ahead of the pack, keeping our (award winning!) reputation for excellent customer service. 65

Good Intents Unit 1, Hazel Park Industrial Estate Dymock Road Ledbury Herefordshire HR8 2JQ 0800 9556 505 or 01531 636505 sales@goodintents.co.uk www.goodintents.co.uk Follow on Twitter


CARDIFF

Lewis Ballard Accountants Fabulous Fifties Night Cardiff based Chartered Accountants, Lewis Ballard held their annual Charity Dinner in aid of Velindre Cancer Care Hospital at Mercure Holland House in Cardiff.

Andrew Rowley and Ryan Downey

Bernard and Shriley Ballard_n

The theme was Fabulous Fifties and the outfits and hairstyles were absolutely spectacular. Award-winning comedian Lea Roberts was completely hilarious and a great night of laughter, and dancing was had by all. The support and generosity before and during the night was amazing and an unbelievable £10,480 was raised, which takes the total raised for Velindre since March 2010 to £111,275.65. “We are so lucky to have such wonderful clients, team and friends to support our efforts and are glad that together we can make a real difference”. said Janet and Neil Ballard. www.lewisballard.co.uk

Guest of Penylan Heating Ltd

Chloe, Julia, Christina, Ruth and Sinaed Walsh_n

Guests of Triah Michael

Guests of Colin Mccubbin 66


Comedian Lea Roberts

Julia and Stephen Walsh

Julie Smalley and guest

Laura Gibbs,Nat Vernon,Hellen Coles, Rachel Barry, Beth Lia

James and Sarah

Laura Gibbs, Nat Vernon,Hellen Coles, Rachel Barry, and Beth Lia

Hugh Williams Jones and comedian Lea Roberts

Paul Lubas and Jane

Hellen Colles and Andrew Rowley


MERCURE CARDIFF HOLLAND HOUSE HOTEL

AVC 40th Anniversary Charity Gala Dinner

L-R: Suzy Bettles, Karl Bettles, Laura Brugnoli-Sidoli, Daniel Sidoli, Geraint Huxtable, Louise Huxtable, Alexander Carpanini, Delucia Sidoli, Philip Bowen, Lisbeth Nash

Amici Val Ceno Galles (AVC) – the Welsh Italian Society - hosted their 40th Anniversary Gala Dinner at Mercure Cardiff Holland House Hotel in aid of Pancreatic Cancer UK, Ty Hafan and Assistenza Pubblica Bardi. The AVC have been organising social and cultural events over the past 40 years, raising money for notable causes whilst ensuring their heritage is maintained for future generations. www.amicivalcenogalles.com

Top L-R: Rob Basini, Mark Tambini, Franco Tambini, Angelo Tedaldi, Paolo Balestrazzi, Dino Carpanini, Anthony Valario, Sandra Cooksey, Gianluigi Fecci, Giacomo Sidoli, Alessandro Carpanini Bottom L-R: Delucia Sidoli, Remo Fecci, Mary Strinati, Romeo Basini (AVC President), Paul Pelopida, Angela Gatti

L-R: Giovanni Malacrino, Miss Wales (Ffion Moyle), plus guest

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Nick Servini


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THANK YOU Thanks for taking the time to read this edition of City Life magazine. City Life is the City Of Cardiff ’s premier lifestyle magazine. We print 10,000 copies of each edition and cut no corners on design, production and the quality of our print. Talking about printing, we source pretty much everything locally, and over 95% of City Life’s turnover is reinvested back into the community of South Wales. If you have a business and are interested in promoting your goods or services to an aspirational audience in Cardiff then City Life is almost certainly right for you. Jennifer Hobbs-Roberts Editor jennifer@goodlifepublishing.co.uk


“Follow your heart, not your head.” Kevin Green, Wealth Coach www.kevingreen.com


P ROMOTING YOUR BUSINESS We value our advertisers. We appreciate the trust they place in us by promoting their businesses in our magazines. With our local partners, we currently publish a range of high quality quarterly titles across Wales. You can advertise your business from as little as £35 per season in this magazine. Pick-up-ability! Our magazines aren’t like other magazines. They have real pick-up appeal - in fact, they really do go like hot cakes. Quality comes first... along with the environment. We’re passionate about quality. The magazines are beautifully written and designed, and printed locally in South Wales on high quality paper (and no nasty varnishes or lamination we’re as green as green can be). Quality distribution to an affluent, aspirational audience... We distribute our magazines to over 1,000 carefully selected outlets across South Wales. We’d love to have your business on board. If you’d like to promote your business or service in our magazines, please get in touch, we’d love the opportunity to work with you.


OUR TITLES We proudly publish four Life-style magazines and one business to business title. Vale Life (our first magazine). This covers the beautiful Vale of Glamorgan - the most southerly county in Wales and deemed to be the most affluent. Vale Life was the first magazine we published. City Life The premier lifestyle magazine for Cardiff, Wales’ capital city. The magazine is delivered to all areas of Cardiff. Valleys Life At the heart of the South Wales Valleys. From the Neath Valley in the West to Blaenau Gwent and Pontypool in the East. West Life Covering Carmarthenshire, Pembrokeshire and coastal Ceredigion, West Life is in touch with the relaxed lifestyle of this very special part of Wales. In Business Wales’ premier magazine for people in business. This is the kind of publication people in business want to read; interesting, inspirational and aspirational.



WHAT A DVERTISERS SAY “The best advertising we’ve ever done!” Andy Bradshaw, Partner, Hamptons, Penarth. “Honestly, the best response I’ve ever had.” Matt Mullooly, Owner, Northern Star, Penarth. “At last, advertising that really delivers.” Ann Bryl, Owner, Bryl’s Boutique, Barry. “A truly astonishing response.” Russell Scott-Lawson, Owner, Hawkes, Cardiff. “The experience I have had with this magazine has restored my faith in advertising. Gauci Organic Candles is a small business with an equally small advertising budget. We have to make every pound count and that’s what we get with Vale Life, City Life and Valleys Life. It’s refreshing to find a magazine that really understands my business. They are never short of ideas. I recommend them whenever I can.” Spiro Gauci, Owner, Gauci Organic Candles, Cardiff www.gaucicandles.co.uk “These are beautiful publications. We love working with people who are passionate about what they do.” Spiro Borg, Spiros Caterers, www.spiros.co.uk We’d love the opportunity to show you what a truly effective campaign in our publications can achieve.



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St P Peters eters H Hall, all, St Peters Peters Street, Street, Cardiff Cardifff CF24 3BA T el: 029 2049 4425 • www.spiros.co.uk www w..spiros.co.uk • info@spiros.co.uk inffo o@sp os.co.uk o@spir Tel: Find us o on nF Facebook acebook @SPIROSCATERERS @SP IROSCA AT TE TERERS


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