VALE L IFE AUTUMN 201 5
P R O U D
T he Vale
of
T O
B E
PRICELESS
I N D E P E N D E N T
G lamorgan ’s P remier L ifestyle M agazine
Style Stars THE CRÈME DE LA CRÈME OF THE VALE’S BOUTIQUES SALONS, INTERIORS, DINING, HEALTH & FITNESS AND MORE
Restaurant Reviews What’s On, Business, Shopping
plus Art, Music, Style There’s more online www.valelifemag.co.uk Health, Homes and much more
The Queen B Boutique
8 Washington Buildings, Stanwell Road, Penarth CF64 2AD 029 2071 1100 | Like on Facebook | follow on Twitter
There’s a style to suit everyone
Prices from £49.50 - £59.50
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THE QUEEN B The Queen B Boutique, 7- 8 Washington Buildings Penarth CF64 2AD 029 2071 1100 enquiries@thequeenb.co.uk Like on Facebook
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Your wedding all wrapped up with our 5 star bow This exclusive 5 star wedding package includes everything you need for your special day: Red carpet arrival • Dedicated wedding co-ordinator • Menu tasting for two • Complimentary ceremony, breakfast and evening room hire • Toastmaster • Chair covers and bows to complement your colour scheme • A glass of sparkling wine or bottle beer on arrival • 3 course wedding breakfast • Freshly brewed coffee and truffles • Glass of sparkling wine • Evening catering • Wooden dance floor • Personalised stationery • Silver cake knife and stand • Complimentary suite for the happy couple
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For further details contact our wedding co-ordinator on 029 2031 3118 or to request a brochure visit www.thestdavidshotel.co.uk
THE VALE OF GLAMORGAN’S PREMIER LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
VALE 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.valelifemag.co.uk 0845 180 2345 Cardiff House, Cardiff Road, Cardiff CF63 2AW Passionate about the Vale of Glamorgan We are a small independent publisher. We are not a large publishing group pretending to be home grown. Vale Life magazine is written, designed and printed in the Vale of Glamorgan for the people of the Vale of Glamorgan. 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 Vale 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 Vale Life or on www.valelifemag.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 Vale Life are strictly those of the authors. Intellectual property © Copyright Vale Life 2015. All rights reserved. Nothing in this magazine (including adverts) may be reproduced in any shape or form (in whole or part) without the express written permission of the publishers. We take breach of copyright and theft of intellectual property extremely seriously and will sue at the drop of a croissant. You have been warned (nicely); ignorance is no excuse. Subscriptions To guarantee your copy, please send a cheque for £20 (four issues) made payable to Vale Life. Visit www.valelifemag.co.uk for special subscriber discounts and special offers. Missed the last issue? We hold a small number of each issue in stock so if you do need a pristine copy, please telephone us or email jennifer@valelife.co.uk. Hopefully we’ll have the issue you want (but we cannot guarantee it). Each back issue costs £5 including postage and packing.
W ELCOME Summer is now a long distant memory and autumn is here. We love this season at Vale Life. Now is the time for the most dramatic weather changes. The nights are darker and we all get our homes ready for the cold cooking up soups and casseroles and, if you’re like me, cosying up in our onesies in front of a log burner. Christmas might be knocking on our door, but, for now, it’s all about comfy, cwtchy layers, box sets and family time. This issue is a bit of a fashion fest. Our front cover this issue is brought to you courtesy of The Closet in Porthcawl. Owned by two entrepreneurial ladies, who have brought their passion for fashion to Well Street. Vale Life also went all ‘Calendar Girl’, minus the obligatory buns, with a photoshoot for The Queen B, Penarth to showcase Jodie’s amazing new season’s boots. You might recognise our models as Penarth business owners. They’ve also got some amazing clothes at affordable prices. Still in Penarth, Ginger’s should be on your ‘go-to’ list if you’re a fashion savvy, 35 plus woman and, in Barry, Bryl’s Boutique, have some amazing pieces this season. If you haven’t stocked up on your autumn/winter wardrobe yet, make sure you visit all of the boutiques featured in this issue.
All that was needed was a photographer to capture the many looks and ‘moments’ and Sian Owen of Sian Owen Photography and Mark Roberts certainly did that. All in all, fab shoots and a thoroughly enjoyable time for us all. Who thought working could be this much fun! All this, plus where to book your Christmas lunch and office party and lots, lots more. See you in the winter. Jennifer Hobbs-Roberts Editor 07766 106 701 jennifer@goodlifepublishing.co.uk uk.linkedin.com/in/jenniferhobbsroberts
Yes it’s free. Priceless actually! Vale Life is distributed free through a wide variety of outlets across Vale of Glamorgan and beyond and is given away free of charge on the understanding that we are happy for it to be lent, passed on, given to friends and generally read until it falls apart. At which point, you can recycle it and we’d be delighted if you did. Green is good The pulp used in the production of the paper Vale Life is printed on is sourced from sustainably managed Scandinavian tree farms and utilises an elementary chlorine-free bleaching process.
We’re very sociable! We’re on the web! www.valelifemag.co.uk Like on Facebook! www.facebook.com/valelife Follow on Twitter! @ValeLife #ValeLife
Want to advertise? Alan Lloyd Client Liaison Manager 07860 930 399 alan@goodlifepublishing.co.uk
Cover Girls! What a joy it was to work with our cover girls from The Closet, Porthcawl. Check out their feature on page 24. Images by Sian Owen.
VALE LIFE WOULD LIKE TO THANK EVERYONE WHO HAS SUPPORTED US OVER RECENT MONTHS. OUR CONTRIBUTORS, OUR FAMILIES, OUR FRIENDS (INCLUDING ALL THE NEW ONES WE HAVE MADE) AND OUR ADVERTISERS - WITHOUT THEM VALE LIFE WOULD NOT HAVE BEEN POSSIBLE. WE HOPE YOU LIKE WHAT WE’VE PRODUCED AND WE’LL TRY TO MAKE EACH ISSUE EVEN BETTER THAN THE LAST AND IF YOU HAVE A STORY THAT YOU’D LIKE TO SHARE, PLEASE GET IN TOUCH. VALE LIFE IS REGISTERED AT THE BRITISH LIBRARY AS A MAGAZINE ISSN 1757-1723. FOR TERMS AND CONDITIONS PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT WWW.VALELIFEMAG.CO.UK
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We bumped into a lovely couple from Somerset the other day who regularly bring their little camper van across the bridge to explore the Heritage Coast. They were so enthusiastic about the Vale, that it made us really appreciate how much people love this area, and how far they they are prepared to travel. It just reminded us how fortunate we are.
AROUND THE VALE
TA PA S & C O C K TA I L S
La Cocina It is not everyday that we at Vale Life have the opportunity to announce the next big thing so, when we do, you know that its time to pay attention. Coming soon to Bridgend is a brand new tapas and cocktail experience that is set to bring all the authentic tastes of Spain to South Wales! For more information make sure you pick up the winter edition of Vale Life this December. Now taking bookings for Christmas parties. Open from Friday 23rd October at 6pm. La Cocina 2 Derwen Road, Bridgend CF31 1LH hello@lacocinatapas.co.uk Like on Facebook: lacocinabridgend Follow on Twitter: @lacocinatapas PENARTH
The Media Angel welcomes new member One of the Vale of Glamorgan’s finest boutique marketing agencies, The Media Angel, has recently recruited a new member to the team, and added a new set of skills to the agency’s offering. Tanya Hunter joined at the start of September, having previously worked at business networking site, Linkedin. Tanya said: “I started in media 15 years ago at Haymarket Publishing, working on titles such as What Car & Autocar. I’m looking forward to being able to pass on some of my media knowledge; particularly my social media experience to The Media Angel’s fantastic range of clients.”
Alison Debono, Director of The Media Angel said: “We are delighted to welcome Tanya to our team, where her media background and social media skills will further enhance what we have offer to both existing and new clients.” The Media Angel 029 2132 0200 info@themediaangel.co.uk www.themediaangel.co.uk 8
If you’re a fab little café or boutique or a great gift shop, butcher, baker or candlestick maker, please get in touch – we’d love to meet you in our next issue. Similarly, if you’re a reader and know a business that you feel could have, or should have been featured, then please let me know. jennifer@goodlifepublishing.co.uk
A TRUE BAR EXPERIENCE
Nolton Corner Is this the only true, classical bar experience available in Bridgend? Perfect when you’re looking for something more than your old local. The self professed love child between a raw prohibition era speakeasy and a stylish wine society, Nolton Corner offers the best in craft beers, fine wines and cocktails. Feeling peckish? Nolton Corner offers a brunch/lunch menu throughout the day and a grazing menu to complement your drinks in the evening. Want to brush up on your cocktails? Nolton Corner can host private cocktail masterclasses Tues - Thurs. Or fancy a laugh? NC hosts ‘Nolton Comedy’ showcasing local stand-up comedians every second Thursday of the month.
Opening times: Tues - Sat from 10am 4 Nolton Street, Bridgend CF31 1DU 01656 655015 www.noltoncorner.com Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter and Instagram
SOUTH WALES
Secure, flexible storage for home and business n Fully alarmed facility with 24hr CCTV n Insurance cover offered n Internal security rooms from 25sq ft to 1,000sq ft n External container storage n Regular access n Mobile Self-Storage n Trailer Pick-up service available n Packaging Supplies
Self storage in Wales just got better! When storing your personal belongings or business effects you want reassurance that you are in safe and trusted hands. Masons, one of the longest established names in the removals and storage industry, are proud to unveil their newly refurbished, highly secure self storage facility. In addition to the Classic Self Storage solution they are delighted to announce two new, unique services: Mobile Self Storage and Trailer Pick Up Service making storage even easier.
“No need to hire a van, no need to bring the car, we can take care of it all for you and bring Self Storage direct to your door, wherever that may be in the Vale or South Wales. So whether you want to do it all yourself, or to leave the driving to us you know that you will be in safe hands.”
“ One of the longest established and most trusted names in the removals and storage industry.”
Masons Self Storage The Storage Centre Priority Enterprise Park Cardiff Road, Barry, Vale of Glamorgan CF63 2BG For a no obligation quotation call FREE on 0800 141 3680 www.masonsselfstorage.co.uk info@masonsselfstorage.co.uk
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With autumn now well and truly here, it’s all about skin and hair preparation for the months ahead. Who better to turn to for advice than Hairs ‘n’ Graces, Talbot Green. Managing Director Linda Haggett shares with us some ideas on looking and feeling your best.
H AIRS ‘N’ GRACES Also, the new autumn colours have arrived for our popular Gelish Manicures and Pedicures. We’re loving their new Urban Cowgirl range with colours such as Tan My Hide, Tex’as Me Later and Holy Cow-Girl, how can you not love them! They last for up to three weeks with no chipping or fading.
What are the most popular treatments for the autumn Linda? FOR THE SKIN We’re very excited about the new Dermalogica Age Smart products. We love this brand, as do our clients, as it has a proactive approach to managing skin ageing triggers which can keep skin smoother, firmer and healthier – for longer. Start saying goodbye to wrinkles, altered pigmentation and loss of skin tone. FOR THE HAIR Again we need to concentrate on adding moisture where central heating, wind and styling appliances take their toll. We swear by Joico’s K-Pak range – with its multi-action formulas which feature mega doses of revolutionary bioadvanced Peptide TM and Quadramine complexes – the most powerful reconstructive technologies known to hair – to repair and strengthen hair precisely where it needs it, when it needs it.
Clients love our Joico colour ranges too as they are so kind to the hair. We all need a boost at this time of year so why not try a colour change? It could be the start of a new you! OLAPLEX “Olaplex is the biggest breakthrough we have seen in the hairdressing industry in the last 25 years! It is a treatment that is added to colour services to prevent the hair being compromised during the colouring process. Olaplaex is ‘Insurance For Your Hair’, it will make your hair stronger, healthier and you colour last longer with minimal fade. We at Hairs ‘ Graces have tried and tested it and would now not be without it!” What else is proving popular? Our brand new two hour tan by Xentan is amazing. It develops in just two hours as opposed to the usual eight, has a lovely smell and is long-lasting - perfect for pre-party prep. 11
With Christmas not far away, we’re guessing the salon gets busy? Absolutely. Not just with hair and beauty but we get a lot of walk-ins with customers wanting to buy present s for the loved ones, colleagues and friends – and themselves. We have gifts to suit all tastes and pockets and, if you decide on what to buy, then we have gift vouchers in all denominations. They make a fabulous Christmas present.
Hairs ‘n’ Graces 69 Talbot Road, Talbot Green Pontyclun, CF72 8AE 01443 231 000 info@hairsngraces.co.uk www.hairsngraces.co.uk
FOR ALL THINGS BEAUTIFUL
Felicity Jewellers If you are looking to impress this Autumn, then Felicity’s is one place that offers an exquisite assortment of beautiful items that are certain to dazzle and excite. Felicity Jewellers brings you a range of fashionable pieces including scarves, gloves and leather handbags as well as jewellery from such recognisable brands as Clogau Gold and Citizen Watches. If the unfortunate happens, they have an on-site workshop that deals with all jewellery and watch repairs. Felicity’s always guarentees great service with the personal touch. 34 Nolton Street, Bridgend CF31 3BN 01656 658080 www.felicitybridgend.co.uk Like on Facebook RHOOSE, NEXT STOP THE WORLD
Motorcycle Wanderlust If you’re a motorcycle rider and enjoy touring, or have fancied venturing further afield but needed a little shove, a new book by keen Rhoose based motorcyclist Chris Finch may provide the motivation you need. Retired former RAF Engineering Officer, Christopher Finch and wife Dee, embark on regular trips across Wales, the UK, Europe and North America using their own Triumph bikes or rented Harleys. In his new book, Motorcycle Wanderlust, Chris, for several years a motorcycle holiday tour leader, offers more than just a travelogue; he supplies complete details on how to follow and enjoy the same trips.
Chris says, “We selected five of our motorcycle trips (two into Europe and three in the USA and Canada, including our three-and-a-half-month, 11,000-mile trip across Canada and back across the USA) and submitted the book to Austin Macauley Publishers Ltd. They agreed to publish the book which I’m proud to say is now available through all good bookshops and, of course, Amazon.”
“ For motorbike enthusiasts or just plain tourists, this book is a valuable aid towards visiting some out standingly beautiful and, in some cases, somewhat challenging European and American locations. This book is a must read for those ready for adventure.” Motorcycle Wanderlust in Europe and North America By Chris Finch
Austin Macauley Publishers Ltd ISBN 9781784551254 A snip at £8.99
T H E O N E A N D O N LY
Marco’s Cafe What springs to mind first when you think of cafes on Barry Island? Maybe one that has been the Islands centerpiece for almost a decade? Marco’s Cafe is as synonymous with Barry Island as the very beach itself. Marco’s handles hundreds of customers on a regular basis, all of whom clammer for their range of drinks, cakes and delicious bacon baguettes. With a regular slot in ‘Gavin and Stacey’ and a visit from the Prime Minister on its list of achievements, Marco’s Cafe is the perfect place to visit ‘over the Island’, no matter the weather.
“ Marco’s handles hundreds of customers on a regular basis, all of whom clammer for their range of drinks, cakes and delicious bacon baguettes.”
The Promenade, Barry Island CF62 5TQ Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter 12
STOCKISTS OF ‘FRENCHIC’
Aspirations UK Aspirations UK may be one of the new shops in Barry but that has not stopped it from making a great first impression thanks to its beautifully painted furniture and home accessories. Aspirations UK is also an official supplier of the award-winning, all natural ‘Frenchic’ range; including chalk, thirty different styles of mineral paint and furniture wax, all perfect for adding those personal touches to your furniture. In addition they welcome commissions and will shortly be introducing painting classes. 51a Vere Street, Barry CF63 2HW 07742 325440 www.aspirationsuk.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter
PENARTH
Hamptons celebrates 10 year anniversary It was Hamptons’ official birthday on 1st August and the interiors and gift store on Ludlow Lane is celebrating ten fabulous years. Owners Andy Bradshaw and Peter Knowles opened the Penarth store ten years ago following an extensive six month refurbishment of, what was then, the ground floor of Brocks fruit and vegetable shop and first floor snooker hall. The building was originally a Victorian meeting hall upstairs - known as St Andrews Hall - and a fresh produce market on the ground floor.
Hamptons is a haven of unique, design led home interiors and gifts. From bath and body products, soft furnishings, home fragrances to ladies accessories. Peter and Andy have created the most perfect shopping experience. Their free gift wrapping service has become legendary, and customers leave the store with gifts that look simply spectacular. The store and the café have been finalists in local awards for Best Retailer and Best Café. The Blue Pelican Café on the first floor at Hamptons has earned an incredibly loyal following over the last ten years. Special events in the café such as music and dinner evenings, Breakfast with Father Christmas and private events for weddings and parties have all added to the variety of life at Hamptons. 13
Hamptons 10 Ludlow Lane, Penarth Vale of Glamorgan CF64 1EA 029 2070 5391 www.hamptonspenarth.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter
VA L E W I D E
Your special day can create precious moments for children in Wales Your wedding day will be one of the most precious moments in your life, but have you ever thought about celebrating your wedding by helping other families to create precious moments too? Ty Hafan’s wedding favours give you the opportunity to support children with short lives while celebrating your precious moment. If you would like more information about our range of personalised wedding favours, please contact us. Thank you for caring. www.tyhafan.org/in-celebration 029 2053 2255
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UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT
Hare & Hounds Now under new management the Hare & Hounds has quickly gained a growing collection of excited regulars. After having grown up in the village of Aberthin Head Chef Tom left and spent 10 years working in London within the critically acclaimed ‘Anchor & Hope’ and the Michelin Starred ‘St John’. Tom has now returned to his home with wife Sarah and together with General Manager Alex (whose previous endeavor won the ‘CAMRA Pub of the Year’) have taken over the Hare & Hounds, a pub where Tom played as a child and where he had his very first pint.
The menu within the Hare & Hounds changes often in order to make the most of seasonal and remanal produce, with all ingredients locally sourced when possible making the Hare & Hounds a place you must visit. Aberthin, Vale of Glamorgan CF71 7LG 01446 774892 Like on Facebook info@hareandhoundsaberthin.com www.hareandhoundsaberthin.com PENARTH
BARRY
English Tutor
New skincare clinic opens in Barry
Carolyn is an English tutor supporting literacy for all ages, at all levels. FO O T O F T H E M O U N TA I N
The Gwaelod Inn Well positioned on the Taff-Ely Ridgeway Path and perfect for ramblers, cyclists, locals and those looking for an award winning, family run pub to enjoy a nice pint in. Main Road, Gwaelod-y-Garth, Cardiff CF15 9HH 029 2081 0408 www.gwaelodinn.com Like on Facebook, Follow on Twitter
The Vale Skin Clinic is a brand new specialist service available in the Vale.
Whether you’re an adult with business reports to write, or a child struggling to make sense of squiggles, Carolyn can support and advance grammar, reading and writing skills. Carolyn is a specialist in dyslexia and dyspraxia. As seen on Channel 4’s Mary Portas Secret Shopper programme. Call Carolyn on 07967 949072 Cal_bartley@msn.com www.catalystcoachingtraining.co.uk A catalyst to improved communication
Dr Catherine Williams, an experienced GP and Dermatology expert, offers a discreet and professional service to both male and female clients who wish to discuss general skincare and anti-ageing treatment options. All consultations and procedures are performed in the confidential and comfortable private clinic with a strict and discreet appointment protocol ensuring anonymity. 01446 731288 info@valeskinclinic.co.uk
Vale Skin clinic
YOUR FINANCIAL FUTURE IS IN YOUR HANDS
MORTGAGES Residential Buy To Let Secured Commercial
Romilly Financial is an independent financial planning practice based in Penarth that serves corporate, high net worth and aspirational clients alike. We can help you take control of your retirement planning, investment of lump sums, life protection, health and estate and raising finance.
PENSIONS Retiring Auto Enrolment Annuities Drawdown
26 Hickman Road, Penarth CF64 2AL 02920 415100 www.romillyifa.com
INVESTMENTS ISA’s Collectives Bonds ETF’S Shares Saving PROTECTION Life Insurance Critical Illness Income Protection Serious Illness Wills & Trusts Family Income Benefit
PROBABLY WALES’ LARGEST
CHRISTMAS STORE
NOW OPEN 7 DAYS A WEE K 10AM - 5PM
THOUSANDS OF CHRISTMAS LIGHTS AND DECORATIONS AVAILABLE IN STORE
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UNIT 9/10, PARC-Y-BONT, BRYNMENYN INDUSTRIAL ESTATE, BRIDGEND CF32 9SZ
01656 723399 www.christmasdecorationsoutlet.co.uk
With an already expanding client list, Wendy Hopkins has welcomed Hannah Magee (formerly of Howells Solicitors) and Kelly Lewis (formerly of Hopkins Law) to the team, Kelly having joined Wendy from Wendy’s former firm, Hopkins Law, last year. “Hannah, who lives in St Nicholas and who went to Cowbridge School is a superb addition to the team as is Kelly, who joined us from my former firm Hopkins Law. Both women are young, ambitious and talented and I am excited to be sharing my considerable experience and knowledge with them.” says Wendy. To arrange a confidential consultation with one of the team, please contact 029 2010 0950. LO N D O N E X P E R T I S E AT PROVINCIAL PRICES
Gordon Dadds’ family grows Gordon Dadds, the well-respected London law and professional services firm, have considerable experience in advising affluent individuals. Their Cardiff practice, which opened two years ago and boasts Wendy Hopkins as one of its consulants, is expanding its team.
The firm, which has represented leading personalities from the political, media, sports, medical and entertainment sectors and is the go-to law practice for affluent Vale and Cardiff individuals, can help with all aspects of divorce and relationship breakdown. Gordon Dadds also offers assistance with wills and trusts, succession planning and much more. They have an unrivalled reputation, not only for providing professional and proactive service, but also for obtaining outstanding results for their clients.
Meet the Gordon Dadds team at the Cowbridge Fashion Show Lunch at The Bear Hotel on the 1st October 2015. Gordon Dadds 26 Windsor Place, Cardiff CF10 3BZ 029 2010 0950 info@gordondadds.com www.gordondadds.com @thewendyhopkins
“ An unrivalled reputation, for providing professional and pro-active service.”
CARDIFF AND GLAMORGAN
MEMORIAL PARK AND CREMATORIUM
DISTINGUISHED SERVICE IN A BEAUTIFUL SETTING Our Memorial Park is a new concept and opened in October 2011. Its facility innovation and use of local materials makes it a serene, personal and beautiful place. It is set in 20 acres of parkland and offers natural burial, traditional burial and cremation with local memorialisation. Cardiff and Glamorgan Memorial Park and Crematorium Port Road East, Vale of Glamorgan CF62 9PX T. 01446 724040 F. 01446 724042 Office hours: 9.00am to 5.00pm
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FOR MEN WHO WANT THE BES T
The Barbers Cowbridge The Barbers would like to thank everyone who has supported them in their first few months of being open and also welcome all new clients to the barbers. Continuing to provide a relaxed, professional environment, The Barbers offer a range of treatments from haircuts and facials to hot towel shaves. All carried out by experienced barbers using traditional techniques. They stock a range of products by Label M and Taylor of Bond Street for all your hair care requirements from cleansing to styling and finishing products. During November they will be supporting ‘The Movember Foundation’, so join them for all your moustache and shaving requirements. They offer free consultations and will make a donation for every shaving and moustache services that are carried out throughout the month. 16 High Street, Cowbridge CF72 7AG 01446 775300 www.thebarberscowbridge.co.uk Like on Facebook BRIDGEND
Solicitors you can trust It is without a doubt that autumn will bring an influx of new clients for family law solicitors. Relationship breakdown and children disputes are sometimes the unfortunate aftermath of the summer holidays for numerous families and many therefore embrace the new academic year as the decisive moment in which to seek legal advice. Perhaps the intensity of the holidays has exposed some unbearable issues within your relationship or the inevitable breakdown of your relationship has been put on hold for the sake of the children throughout the summer. Contact arrangements may have caused difficulties for those already separated and need resolving. Melanie says, “Whatever your position, separation can generate an endless array of disputes and whether you and your partner’s positions are polarised, or whether you have agreed to deal with matters amicably, our leading family and divorce lawyers at Melanie Lazarus & Co will ensure a constructive resolution of your case, whilst promoting the best interests of any children involved at all times.”
“Our highly acclaimed solicitors are able to provide specialist advice in the following areas of family law, with a devotion to achieving the best possible outcome in each case:Divorce, Separation, Children, Finances, Cohabitation, Civil Partnerships, Pre-nuptial Agreements, Domestic Violence and Wills. Please do not hesitate to contact our offices if we can be of any assistance.” At a highly competitive rate, Melanie Lazarus & Co offer initial appointments for all new clients at a fixed fee of £150 including VAT. Melanie Lazarus & Co 38 - 40, Nolton Street, Bridgend CF31 3BN 01656 750888 www.mlsolicitors.com 18
BARRY BOUTIQUE
The Gallery Boutique Good news fashion fans. Barry High Street has a new look fashion boutique! Much like its sister shop, The Beach Hut, on Barry Island, The Gallery Boutique has a wonderful selection of items that gives that ‘something different’ feel to your Autumn wardrobe. As well as an eye-catching range of clothes they have an excellent selection of accessories: necklaces, shoes, hand-bags, and scarves that are available in store all year round. 3 - 4 High Street, Barry CF62 7OZ 01446 732517 www.thebeachhutbarryisland.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter SPORTSWEAR & EMBROIDERY
TARW Do you need quality embroidery? Somewhere that both supplies and embroiders a wide range of clothing? At TARW we do just that. We supply a wide range of indoor and outdoor clothing; everything from T-shirts, shirts and sweaters to overalls and stag and hen T-shirts. We also stock most school uniforms for the Bridgend county. If all of that was not enough, we also give you the option of embroidering your own garments, just bring them along when you pay us a visit.
“ We also stock most school uniforms for the Bridgend county.”
Unit 34, Aneurin Bevan Avenue Brynmenyn Industrial Estate Brynmenyn, Bridgend CF32 9SZ 01656 725925 Like on Facebook PERFECT ALL YEAR ROUND
Coffee Cove The Autumn is well and truly here, the kids are back in school and the days are becoming shorter but that doesn’t mean you can’t visit the places you loved during the summer. With the autumnal glow in the sky making the view of Whitmore Bay even more picturesque, Coffee Cove offers a lot more than just its glorious views. Boasting high quality food and drink with the finest Piazza D’Oro coffee available, and delicious homemade food which now includes a fine selection of pizzas.
With outdoor seating to enjoy the bright days and sunset-filled evenings, Coffee Cove is the perfect place to enjoy a coffee or even a glass of wine no matter what time of year it is.
The venue also hosts an assortment of events including a monthly comedy night and mini craft fairs.
Unit 1, Esplanade Buildings, Barry CF62 5TJ 01446 677071 Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter 19
COWBRIDGE
Give your loo just a one and two and help us stop the block Do your children ever get in trouble for flushing things down the toilet? My friend’s three year old flushed a toy car down the loo and most recently flushed my glasses. Yes, my glasses! “I didn’t mean to do it,” She lied. Of course, she did it on purpose. To my friend’s daughter and to our customers, the toilet is a magical trash can. Simply throw, flush, and your rubbish is marvellously whooshed away to some watery subterranean netherworld, never to be seen again or so people like to think…
wastewater treatment plant, wherever that may be. It’s not until a problem arises (like a clogged toilet or issues in a local wastewater system), that many customers even consider the fact that they may be flushing the wrong materials down the loo.
Though the dustbin is readily available for use, people still find it necessary to flush everyday items such as wet wipes and cotton buds down the toilet.
Oh okay, we do get the odd ‘accident’, but blockages are a big problem for a community like Cowbridge. They are costly to clear up and can cause a lot of disruption locally. When a sewer or drain blocks and backs-up, it can cause sewer flooding in your own home or a neighbour’s property. There are few things more unpleasant than this and it can take months to put things right.
Once something is flushed down the toilet, most of us have an “out of sight, out of mind” mentality. Whatever was flushed has cleared the toilet bowl and is on its journey to through Welsh Water’s sewerage system to our
Help us prevent sewer blockages, flooding and pollution by not flushing wet wipes or cotton buds, or pouring fat oil and grease away. Find out more at LetsStopTheBlock.com Helpwch ni i atal blociadau, llifogydd a llygredd drwy beidio â fflysio eitemau fel weips glanhau neu ffyn cotwm, nac arllwys braster, olew a saim i ffwrdd. Am ragor o wybodaeth: StopCynCreuBloc.com
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“ Let’s Stop The Block is dropping in to Cowbridge.” Blockages can also lead to environmental pollution, damaging streams, rivers and beaches. So, starting midOctober, Let’s Stop The Block is dropping in to Cowbridge to spread the word. Our education team will be visiting your schools with interactive lessons. We’ll also be visiting your local businesses to tell you useful ways on how you can stop the block. To discover more, and for your chance to win an iPad, visit www.Let’sStopTheBlock.com
PENARTH
The naked truth It was with great anticipation that we undertook the photoshoot for The Queen B, Penarth. Owner Jodie Tanner wanted to show off her new season’s boots but also wanted her ad to have a bit of an impact. I think we can safely say we achieved that! It wasn’t an easy shoot to pull off. Let’s face it how many of us ladies are comfortable in posing in just a pair of boots (lovely as they are)? But these brave ladies did an amazing job. Even though they were a bit apprehensive, we all managed to enjoy it. Being all Penarth business owners, they were all in it together. That’s real camaraderie!
A big thanks... Huge thanks must go to Sian Owen, our amazing photographer, who captured the look we were going for perfectly (www.sian-owen. co.uk), Alexis Williams from Blu Hair Design for creating the hair (www. bluhairdesign.com) and Jessica Carmell from Amorio Cosmetics for the makeup (www.amoriocosmetics.co.uk). The models... Last but not least, a massive thank you and well done to our models: Hayley Perkins ( Jewels Canley), Alexis Williams (Blu Hair Design), Jessica Carmell (Amorio Cosmetics), Lowri Jones (Holm House), Stephanie Davy (Lana Beautique), Jodie Tanner (The Queen B Boutique).
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The Queen B 8 Washington Buildings, Stanwell Road, Penarth CF64 2AD 029 2071 1100 Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter
A
Magical Christmas to Remember
From Absolute Party Nights, West End Rocks, Big Mac’s Wholly Soul Night and a 90’s Party Night, to Magical Mini-Breaks and a Glamorous New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner, getting you into the Christmas spirit at the Vale Resort is never a problem.
Absolute Party Nights
70’s & 80’s Party Night
West End Rocks
Hensol Castle Casino Royale
Stereophonics Tribute Night
Family Sunday Lunch Party
And much more! Visit www.vale-hotel.com/christmas for more details.
PRICES FROM
£39
PP
01443 665803 | www.vale-hotel.com Vale Resort, Hensol Park, Hensol, Vale of Glamorgan, CF72 8JY
CA R D I F F & VA L E
Make a dash for cash in the bay and join our sprinting Santas and elfy helpers Ho, ho, ho. Have fun this Christmas and go that extra mile for charity by joining Welsh Hearts for an all-Wales festive life-saving 5k Dash, Walk, Jog or run around Mermaid Quay and Cardiff Bay on December 6th. Get your hearts beating faster this Christmas with this great Sunday event which will bring the whole community together. Join over 1,000 Santas and elves. This family festive fun event is open to everyone - So go on “Be Elfy” this Christmas! Join the fun and be part of something truly Santa-Fantastic this Christmas season and join the Festive Dash to save lives in Wales!
All money raised will fund defibrillators and life saving equipment in communities through-out Wales, CPR sessions and support our heart screening sessions for 14 to 35 years of age which cost the charity £3,500 per session!
Suitable for all ages. £8 Registration to include a t-shirt, water, a goody bag and a certificate. Family of four £24. Sponsor forms available.
For more information how you can support Welsh Hearts this Christmas and help us to save more lives in Wales contact The Fundraising Office on 02920 786521 or email fundraising&welshhearrs.org
All children under 16 encouraged to wear fancy dress - prizes for the best dressed on the day. There plenty of opportunities for s-Elfies!
To book a place contact 029 2078 6521 fundraising@welshhearts.org www.welshhearts.org/santa
ROALD DAHL PLASS, CARDIFF BAY
6 DECEMBER 2014
from 12pm
THE GREAT CARDIFF BAY
SANTA AND ELF DASH Join hundreds of other Santas and elves for the Welsh Hearts 5k walk, jog or dash around Cardiff Bay. Get your hearts beating faster with this great event which will bring the whole community together to help save Welsh lives!
nline at o r e t s i Reg rg/santa .o s t r a e welshh mily of 4
E TH ! OR SED F ES RES IZ PR ST D BE
• £24 fa £8 single
Registered charity 1154109
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Fabulous clothes store The Closet celebrates its first anniversary in November so we went along for a chat with the owners, sisters Joanna and Gemma…
WE ARE
FAMILY Happy Anniversary ladies. What led you to opening a boutique? Thank you. We opened on the 1st of November last year in a different location, and the business was so successful that we relocated to this larger second shop on the 14th February. We’ve dreamed of doing this since we were little girls. We’ve grown up and lived in Porthcawl all our lives and felt it was time to bring fashion to our lovely home town. Fashion is such an important thing in every girls life. Whether it’s clothes, shoes or accessories, we aim to bring a bit of everything. It’s been years since there’s been a fashion shop here so it’s about time!
What brands do you stock and why? DARLING LONDON - it’s very fun and offers a beautiful range that suits lots of ages. Everyone loves Darling. GREAT PLAINS - we love their bold pieces. It’s a solid brand and never fails to please. RUBY SHOO - a quirky and very unique brand of shoes. Very fun to sell! PIA ROSSINI - we’re in love with all the luxurious accessories they offer. SUGARHILL BOUTIQUE - a new brand for us and a very successful one, it’s going down a storm. Again this is a quirky boutique brand with amazing prints. 24
ICHI - our best seller to date and has a fantastic price point which is important to us as well as our clients. From the basics to special pieces, this brand offers great style. Ichi was one of our first brands so we have a soft spot for it. RAVEL - again this is a new brand for us. The popular Ravel has always been well known for gorgeous shoes. We’re very excited about stocking Ravel.
Do you have a typical customer? Not at all. We cater for everything from your everyday casual look of skinny jeans to gorgeous dresses, ideal for parties and events. What is important to us is to offer fantastic clothes at affordable prices. Our customer base has a very broad range of ages and styles; we help dress any female looking for beautiful clothing and accessories. And last but not least, do you have any plans for the immediate future? Yes. We’re very excited about our new website which has an online shop, so you can enjoy blissful retail therapy from the comfort of your own home!
With Christmas looming - if you’re looking for a gift, or treating yourself to a new outfit, pop in to see Joanna and Gemma or check out their brand new online shop. To keep up to date with their latest stock arrivals and all their offers you can sign up to their newsletter via www.thecloset.boutique
“ Fashion is such an important thing in every girls life, whether it’s clothes or shoes or accessories - we aim to bring a bit of everything.” 25
The Closet 3 Well Street, Porthcawl CF36 3BE 01656 789381 shop@thecloset.boutique www.thecloset.boutique Like on Facebook, follow on Instagram
When Ben Wells married his girlfriend of eight years Natasha in July this year, he, his two best men, his father, brother and brother-in-law needed suits. As an avid shopper at Hawkes, Morgan Arcade in Cardiff, Ben knew exactly where they should all go. We chat to Ben to find out more and hear about their fabulous wedding day and honeymoon.
Russell Scott-Lawson, Owner, Hawkes
SUITED & BOOTED Where did you get married? We got married at a gorgeous rustic barn called Rosedew Barn located just up from the beach in Llantwit Major.
How was the day? It was fantastic. We awoke to a lovely sunny morning without a cloud in the sky. After the barn had been decorated by Dear Florence and the flowers arranged by Willow and Walnut, it was transformed and looked incredible.
The ceremony was pretty emotional and it was amazing seeing my wife in her dress for the first time. She looked so beautiful walking down the aisle. The rest of the day went off without a hitch. The food at the wedding breakfast supplied by Five Star Chef was really good and everyone seemed to enjoy it. The speeches were hilarious, although I seemed to be the brunt of all the jokes all part of being the groom I suppose.
How did you and your best men look in your Hawkes suits? My two best men, father, brother and brother-in-law all had Remus suits from Hawkes and they all looked fantastic. Russell had individually tailored each suit so they all fitted perfectly. I was especially happy with my dad’s suit. He doesn’t usually wear such fitted modern looking suits but I actually think he liked it, although he would never admit it!
We also like to have a good party, so we had booked a great band called iPop who get everyone up on the dance floor following our first dance. We then had a guest appearance from a band called Duke who were on X-Factor in 2012. They are three guys, one who plays guitar and the other two sing and beat box! They were something a little different but all our friends loved them. We finished off by dancing on until the very early hours to a DJ.
Were you pleased you chose to work with Russell at Hawkes? I have absolutely zero regrets about working with Russell. I am a pretty demanding customer and he constantly stepped up to get me exactly what I wanted. Even the fact that I had a best man in Delhi, one in Dubai and a brother in London caused no issues for Russell. He handled everything in his stride and I couldn’t be happier with the way everyone looked.
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“Russell handled everything in his stride and I couldn’t be happier with the way everyone looked.” Where did you go on honeymoon? We went to Dubai for a week, which is a favourite holiday destination of ours. We stayed at the fabulous Atlantis hotel on the Palm. Because one of my best men has lived in Dubai for nearly ten years, he made all our reservations for us, which worked out really well as he had also asked them to take special care of us, which all the restaurants did. I don’t think we had a single meal where our table wasn’t covered in flowers. We then went to the Maldives for ten days, staying at the Conrad Hilton on Rengali Island in a stunning water villa. The place was absolutely breathtaking. The water is so blue, just before the sun sets it appears to glow. We had an unforgettable time relaxing, snorkelling, doing water sports and eating some amazing food!
It goes without saying then that you’d be happy to recommend Russell and Hawkes? Absolutely! I knew we would all be well looked after and the end result was just as I expected - superb. Images courtesy of Sacha Miller Wedding Photographer 27
Hawkes 37-39 Morgan Arcade Cardiff CF10 1BS 029 2037 3780 www.hawkesessentials.com Like on Facebook
As an avid fan of Bryl’s Boutique on Barry’s High Street, I just couldn’t wait to see what the new season had to offer. I know this could be said for any boutique but I speak from the heart and my purse, when I say that I’m never disappointed when I walk through the door.
BRYL’S BOUTIQUE
Along with every customer, I am immediately greeted with a warm smile. I’m left to browse but Ann, Lousha or Natasha are always available to offer suggestions on what they think might suit me. It helps when boutique owners are familiar with your shape and immediately know what will flatter. I was keen to ask what I might find there this autumn. So what can we expect from Bryl’s? Well as you know we stock a real mix of brands, including Ted Baker, French Connection, Great Plains, Yaya, Darling, Sandwich, Masai, NYDJ and Isabella. What that means is that whether you are looking for casual every day wear, a top for a night out or something for a special occasion, we’ve got it covered. Whatever the style, the age and the budget - there really is something for everyone.
How about for this autumn/winter can we expect to see any changes? We are really lucky that with the brands we stock, the designers are always moving things forward to keep things fresh and on trend. We’ve also added a new brand, Joules, which offers really stylish casual wear and gorgeous but practical outer wear at affordable prices. Ooh and accessories - lots more accessories. More accessories - I saw your eyes light up then - tell me more? We’ve always stocked hand bags and accessories by Ted Baker, French Connection and Ugg and jewellery by Bibi Bijoux, but we’ve now got a lot more to offer. We’ve got a new range of Italian bags, which are fantastic on quality and price as they range between £49 to £59. We’ve also introduced Estella Bartlett jewellery, which is really dainty - so very on trend. With its lovely packaging - it makes gorgeous gifts. 30
As do our Ted Baker jewellery and watches, there’s lots of sparkle and rose gold, it all comes in a Ted Baker gift box and looks much more expensive than it is (earrings are around £25 and bracelets/ necklaces £35). Then there’s our new range of faux fur by Helen Moore - think scarves, collars, cuffs, head bands and gilets. It is absolutely stunning and we’ve had a fantastic reaction to it already. We’ve fallen in love with the stuff and we love the whole ethos of the brand too - everything is made in Britain which is really rare these days! So what trends are ‘en vogue’? Faux fur is massive for Autumn/Winter as are capes and ponchos. There’s also a real nod to the 70 s in lots of collections with details such as tassles and fringing.
“There really is something for everyone.”
“ It always comes down to good service. We get to know our customers, know what they like and what suits their body shape and will suggest items that we know will work for them.” I’m seeing lots of colour… Yes, there is lots of colour this season. Brands like French Connection have used vibrant pop colours in purple, pink, red and acid blonde. The dominating colour for Ted Baker this season is purple and there is also lots of berry around - that’s really on trend. Those who don’t like colour don’t need to worry though as there are still plenty of the classic winter colours - grey, black, cream and loads of navy too.
What do you think brings your customers back to you time and time again? Our prices are competitive and we have a fantastic range of quality brands that our customers have come to rely on. We also get to know our customers, what they like and what suits their body shape and will suggest items that we know will work for them. As well as that we absolutely love what we do so hopefully that shines through.
How about footwear? What are Ugg Australia doing this season? We’ve got a really wide selection of Uggs again this year. We are still doing the classic styles that Ugg are famous for but we’ve also moved things on with a wide range of fashion boots. We’ve got a real mix from Chelsea boots to high heeled shoe boots. The great thing about the fashion Uggs is that they are really stylish yet they are so comfortable too.
Bryl’s Boutique 7 High Street, Barry Vale Of Glamorgan CF62 7DZ 01446 748246 brylsboutique@hotmail.co.uk Like on Facebook - brylsboutique Follow on Twitter - @brylsboutique 31
DAVI D EDWA R D S
Girard Perregaux £1,900.00
Diamond Piaget £9,000.00
Hublot Chronograph Strap Watch £1,950.00
Ladies Baume and Mercier Geneve £1,100.00
Ladies Omega Seamaster £950.00
Cartier Stainless Steel £1,750.00
Cartier Santos 100 £2,450.00
Cartier Gold and Steel Santos 100 Limited Edition Dial £1,950.00
Tag Heuer Aquaracer £950.00
Ferrari Strap Watch £4,350.00
Panerai Radiomir Rattrapante £7,000.00
Panerai Radiomir Black Seal £4,000.00
Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean £2,900.00
Cartier Gold and Steel Santos 100 Date £2,850.00
IWC Chronograph 18ct Rose Gold £7,500.00
Cartier Tank Americaine 18ct Gold £11,000.00
FINE JEWELLERS
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Sea Dweller £5,400.00
Ladies Rolex Oyster Perpetual £2,750.00
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date £2,950.00
Ladies Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date £2,950.00
Gent’s Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Explorer II £3,500.00
Vintage 14CT Gold Rolex Geneve £5,500.00
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Aftermarket Diamond Bezel £5,450.00
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Just Aftermarket Diamond Dial £3,250.00
Ladies Gold and Steel Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Just Aftermarket Diamond Dot Mother of Pearl Dial £4,150.00
WAT C H S A L E A F U RT H E R 1 0 % O F F ALREADY DISCOUNTED PRICES
Ladies Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Just Aftermarket Diamond dot Mother of Pearl Dial £4,750.00
Simply Perfect 2 3 - 2 5 R O YA L A R C A D E , C A R D I F F C F 1 0 1 A E
029 2064 1939
W W W. D AV I D E D WA R D S J E W E L L E R S . C O . U K
As every high street looks increasingly similar, it’s no surprise that our local independent boutiques are becoming more popular. That’s definitely true of Gingers, Penarth. Here you will get personal service, a warm welcome and experience from an owner who has honed her skills in choosing the perfect clothes and accessories for her loyal customers.
GINGER’S
Arriving at the hotel
Pre dinner cocktail
Vale Life and Cathy set off to the beautiful Holm House in Penarth the perfect backdrop to showcase Ginger’s autumn and winter offering. What excites you about this season Cathy? Definitely the colours. Sometimes when we reach a certain age, we can be afraid of colour and of trying something new. Customers trust us - when we suggest they step out of their comfort zone and experiment with colour, they love the results. Some will try just a shot of colour with an accessory - and that’s fine too. It’s good to dip your toe.
“ I have clients who are looking for something a bit special and, if it’s not on the shop floor, then I can usually find it in stock.”
How would you describe Ginger’s? Ginger’s isn’t quite the boutique you would expect. I like to think it’s more of a mini floor of a department store because it has a bit of everything. From daywear to evening wear and then special event wear, bags and hats - we have it all. Our full wall of jewellery from Dante and Gaby, and Fraas scarves means that we can dress you from head to toe. Our customers tend to be 35 and over and come from near and far. Customers seem to love your brands. Ginger’s has been here for seven years and, in that time, I’ve learned to know what my customers want. They want quality first and foremost. They want classic and quirky and affordability. They like layering different pieces together in an unstructured look and that’s why Sahara, Zele, Capri, Adini, Flax, Ana Nonza, Pomodoro and Intown are my go-to brands. 34
Business meeting
I have clients who are looking for something a bit special and, if it’s not on the shop floor, then I can do my best to get it from our suppliers. I also have clients who don’t have time to browse so they’ll leave it to me to choose pieces for them. It’s all part of the Ginger’s service. What do you think sets you apart?. Going the extra mile is what’s keeps Ginger’s on the high street. Even with loyal customers, I never rest on my laurels. I want my customers to enjoy shopping here and, without sounding cliché, giving my all and seeing them happy is what brings me immense pleasure and satisfaction.
Felt like something zippy
Afternoon tea
“ I hope this feature illustrates the diversity of the shop. Ginger’s, along with other independents, is an important part of the community which is most important to me.” Ginger’s 9-10 Washington Buildings Stanwell Road, Penarth CF64 2AD 029 2070 9773 www.gingersofpenarth.co.uk Like on Facebook Meeting up with friends
Having a break
Off to the races
Ginger’s 9-10 Washington Buildings Stanwell Road, Penarth CF64 2AD 029 2070 9773 www.gingersofpenarth.co.uk Like on Facebook Shot at Holm House Hotel, Penarth Thanks to Hayley at Blu Hair Design Waiting for my date
HENSOL
Hensol Castle proves to be the perfect match The Vale Resort in Hensol, south Wales, is celebrating its most successful month for weddings ever, having hosted more than thirty marriages at the resort, and the recently re-opened 17th century Hensol Castle, in August 2015. In total, 31 couples will have celebrated their special day at the venues this month - seventeen at The Vale Resort and fourteen at Hensol Castle; almost 100 per cent increase on August last year, when just sixteen weddings were hosted. While this averages a wedding per day, the majority of the weddings are taking place on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, with the busiest day being 31st August, when staff at the Vale Resort and Hensol Castle looked after 440 wedding guests. The upsurge in wedding business means that the Vale Resort is expecting to hit almost £1 million of revenue from weddings in 2015 and 2016; an increase of 50 per cent from 2013 and 2014.
Image courtesy of Adrian Thomas Photography
The increase in wedding revenue has been boosted by the opening of the 400 year old Grade I listed Hensol Castle, which was officially opened in May following a multi-million pound refurbishment programme to restore it to its former glory.
The Vale Resort has a total of thirteen function rooms, the largest being the Castle Suite that can host 400 guests. If all function rooms at the hotel and Hensol Castle are booked at the same time, the resort can welcome a total of 800 wedding guests.
Located within the grounds of the Vale Resort, the castle has a new purposebuilt Courtyard Hall, which is capable of hosting 180 wedding guests. It also has five smaller reception rooms that can host between 10-100 guests per room. The newly refurbished venue can be hired exclusively and has a wedding license for civil ceremonies.
Phase two of the £10m investment in Hensol Castle will add up to thirty bedrooms and a high-end restaurant. It is expected to be open by late 2016. Until then, guests can stay at the resort, which recently saw a £1 million upgrade to its 143-bedrooms, including installing new bathrooms together with updating soft furnishings and free wi-fi. For more information visit the Vale Resort website at www.vale-hotel.com
“The Vale Resort has a total of thirteen function rooms.”
les at sty e r g ! More online & e instor
Pedro Anton Slingback Wedge
£55
Steptronic Fusion 2
£110
A Foot Above The Rest
Marian Court
£80
MUCH LIKE FOOD, CLOTHES, AND A VERY STRONG COFFEE FIRST THING ON A MONDAY MORNING, SHOES ARE A NECESSITY IN MODERN LIFE.
Lotus Madisyn Ankle Boot
£68
Capollini Ronda Loafer
£90
No matter if you sit at a desk, climb mountains or dance every night away we need shoes to help us get through the day in comfort and in style. With My ShoeBox’s new Autumn/Winter Collection you will be able to do just that and more with the vast ranges of shoes of all types on offer.
Steptronic Maserati
£100
Specialising in brands such as Ara, Hogl, Capollini, Pedro Anton, Pikolinos, Vionic and Van Dal, Steptronic, Waldlaufer, and Legero.
Pedro Anton Wedge
£55
So no matter how you spend your day, make sure you visit My ShoeBox in order to get the perfectly fitted shoe for your way of life.
5b Stanwell Road, Penarth CF64 2AB | 029 2070 7413 | www.myshoebox.co.uk
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BESPOKE BRIDAL SERVICE
Fascinators by Anastasia Whether you are off to the races, going to a wedding or simply in the mood to dress up Fascinators and hats are the crowning glory of every outfit, no matter the occasion. Offering a bespoke bridal service, Fascinators by Anastasia creates individual hair accessories in any colour scheme to match any outfit and help make your wardrobe unique to you. Anastasia also sell hats, jewellery, shoes, corsages and bags, perfect to complete any look.
“ Fascinators and hats are the crowning glory for any occasion.”
73 High Street, Barry CF62 7DW 01446 7000071 Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter THE EXCLUSIVE BOUTIQUE
Visage Located in the picturesque market town of Cowbridge, Visage is the exclusive ladies fashion boutique with a fabulous range of brands. The wonderful staff at Visage have a philosophy; to provide women with exclusive collections that give them the freedom to express their individuality. All available brands within the boutique are chosen from international designers which means that their collection is unique to them, so you will not find this range anywhere on the high street. Shopping should be an enjoyable experience which is what Visage offers. A relaxed, welcoming environment that allows you to browse at your own pace. So if you are looking for stylish, beautiful clothes and accessories then Visage is the boutique for you.
“ Exclusive collections that express freedom and individuality.”
Now stocking Coster Copenhagen, a lifestyle brand with styles to make you look and feel exclusive. We also have stunning jewelley from Envy and beautiful hats, scarves and gloves from Alice Hannah, perfect for Christmas gifts. Visage showcases the following brands: n Yest n Mado et les autres n Viccio Barcelona n Vetono n Eden Rock n Latte n Naya n Capri n Peruzzi n Coster Copenhagen n Divas n Envy jewellery n Alice Hannah n Luella 13 High Street, Cowbridge CF71 7AD 01446 772345 Like on Facebook 38
“The autumn/winter stock has arrived at Boutique Box, Talbot Green and it’s amazing!” says owner Sally Evans. “It’s full of bold colours and beautiful fabrics. I love the velvety textures and the opulence of this season’s stock.”
BOUTIQUE BOX
What keeps customers coming back to Boutique Box time after time? Our customers say that we offer a friendly, honest service to everyone. It’s a vibrant, friendly shop where all customers are made to feel welcome and at ease with no stress or pressure. What sets Boutique Box apart? I believe what makes this boutique stand out is that we are constantly looking for more European styles and we strive to be different. Boutique Box’s newest find is Eastern European with a very couture look and feel - but still at a reasonable price. Do you cater for all sizes? Boutique Box attracts customers of all ages, from teenagers to the more mature lady. Also, all sizes are catered for from 8 to 24.
What do customers love about Boutique Box? Our mantra is to help keep customers look and feel both youthful and beautiful - and these two recent comments agree! “Just want to say a huge thank you to all the ladies at Boutique Box for helping me select the most amazing outfit for my daughter’s wedding. I felt amazing and had so many compliments on the day. Thank you once again.” Jackie Griffiths
“Thank you for my amazing outfit. I absolutely loved it! Kitted out from fascinator and earrings to the shoes!” Sophie Farnham
“ Our newest find is Eastern European with couture look.” 39
Boutique Box 22 Stuart Terrace Talbot Green Pontyclun CF72 8AA
Willows Jewellery & Gifts is a newly opened independent bespoke jeweller in Cardiff ’s beautiful Royal Arcade. Offering its very own brand of designer bespoke jewellery and gift pieces, the company is already overwhelmed by the reception it has received. Vale Life visited the new shop in Cardiff ’s Morgan Quarter and spoke to Manager, Tolis, to find out more about the venture.
A NEW GEM IN TOWN
I graduated as a gemologist at the Gemological Institute of America in the London campus. As accomplished professional jewellers, we were in the wholesale side of the jewellery industry for many years. Our jewellery is handmade and designed in our own workshop, therefore we can offer very competitive prices. Most of our jewellery is crafted in 18K yellow and white gold.
Our stones are sourced from Antwerp in Belgium. We create the most unique designs and each item is exclusively bespoke. All of our jewellery is new nothing is pre-owned. Prior to our opening in Cardiff earlier this year, our market research showed that there is a gap in the market for bespoke handmade jewellery. Our next step was to offer our jewellery through retail.
Willows love being here in the Morgan Quarter and are proud to offer our unique jewellery in Cardiff. We have a small selection of our stock online, however our full collection is available to view in store. We also sell a beautiful collection of silver jewellery. Our silver gifts by Italian company Argenesi are exclusive and make the perfect present for weddings, Christmas and business gifts or just to personalise the home or workplace. We are overwhelmed by how well the shop has started off with clients coming to us from across Wales and all over the UK - for the future we are hoping to expand our business in Bath but for now - Hello Cardiff
“ All of our pieces are designed and hand made in our own workshop in Antwerp, Belgium.”
Willows Jewellery & Gifts 26 Royal Arcade Cardiff CF10 1AE 029 2037 3541 willowsjewellery@gmail.com www.willowsjewellery.com Like on Facebook
“ We love being here in the Morgan Quarter.” 41
To fans of Maserati, the resurgence of the iconic Italian brand in recent years is, like the new models, pretty breathtaking. The increasing sales, development and planned expansion of Maserati Cardiff seem to confirm what Maserati already know - the Welsh love Maserati. Vale Life talks to Lyn Evans, Maserati’s General Manager in Cardiff.
How long have you worked at Maserati? Since April 1st this year, the date that Motorline took over the business. Have you always worked in the car industry? I have been in the industry for over 20 years now, mainly prestige - many years with Audi and Lexus, but nothing quite as high end as Maserati. Please tell us a little about the Maserati marque? The luxury marque was founded in 1914 in Bologna by Alfieri Maserati and two of his brothers. At first they devoted themselves to the construction of racing cars, then to sports cars and small series grantourers and, subsequently, to those of large series. Following last year’s 100th anniversary celebrations, Maserati is looking to its future, with the firm promise that the next 100 years will be ‘The Absolute Opposite of Ordinary’. Among other ambitious developments, Maserati is looking to introduce the brand-new Levante SUV in the UK in 2016 and the stunning Alfieri 2+2 coupe in 2017.
What do you think the Maserati brand stands for? What are its core values? Our recent brand mission statement sums up the company’s aspirations: ‘Build ultra-luxury performance automobiles with timeless Italian style, accommodating bespoke interiors, and effortless, signature sounding power’. Maserati is, we believe, the Grand Tourer brand. After the introduction of the A6 Pininfarina back in 1947 (affectionately known as the GranTurismo), Maserati has developed cars with the same ethos performance orientated, elegant, practical and luxurious. What type of person buys a Maserati? It’s difficult to define as our customer base is quite diverse. It is fair to say that historically, Maserati has generally attracted clients who were business owners or entrepreneurs. With the introduction of Ghibli, we have seen a new generation of clients heralding from the world of corporate business as Directors or Senior Managers. However, attitudinally, they all share similar traits they tend to be cultured, well-educated and happy to stand out from the crowd, appreciating the exclusivity and understated nature of the Maserati brand. 42
Is a Maserati affordable? What are the running costs? The introduction of the Ghibli, Maserati’s mid-size four-door luxury sports saloon, has made Maserati’s perfect combination of design, sports performance and comfort more accessible than ever, with an on-the-road price starting from £49,160 or £445 per month plus VAT. The diesel option is powered by a 3.0 litre V6 turbo-diesel and delivers an economical 47.9 MPG, helping to keep running costs down. What sets Maserati apart? Maserati has long and glorious heritage. For over 100 years, it has played a consistently important role in the history of sports car culture and its development. Maserati has also continued to lead the way in automotive fashion; with unique cars, elegant yet sporty, always with highly personal, distinctive lines. This has resulted in Maserati being one of the most evocative names in automotive history.
“ Elegant yet sporty, always with highly personal, distinctive lines.”
TOP MARQUE What do you enjoy about your role? It is a very exciting brand to be involved with - the customers are successful people who are really interesting and every day is different. When we have provided an amazing experience whilst supplying their cars it gives us a huge sense of achievement. Do you own a Maserati? Unfortunately not, but of course working for the brand I do get to drive them often and enjoy being around them almost every day.
Which is your favourite model? I have to say I love them all but, if I had to choose a favourite, I think it would be the GranTurismo. What are your plans for the future? We have a big refurbishment starting at the end of October that will be complete by the end of the year. It’ll be fantastic. It will give us the platform to keep up the level of service our customers require and help us keep marketing the brand right through Wales.
Motorline Maserati Cardiff 291 Penarth Road, Cardiff CF11 8TT 029 2066 6472 www.motorline.co.uk/maserati
LADIES FASHION
Samantha B You have to look hard these days to find truly independent shops on the high street and Samantha B is one of those little gems that is well worth seeking out. Samantha B has a reputation for great customer satisfaction, with customers returning time and time again to see their range of ladies clothes that constantly change to suit all tastes and looks. Their current lines include quality garments from brands such as Poppy, Bianca, Olsen, Emreco and many more. 4 Wick Road, Ewenny CF35 5BL 01656 658388 www.samanthabclothing.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter
Court Colm an M anor
Much-anticipated Garden Room refurbishment and new, luxurious Honeymoon Suite unveiling at Wedding Fayre on 29/11/15 11am-4pm. Free entry, complimentary goody bag for each bride plus a chance to win a stay in new Honeymoon Suite. n Exclusive use venue n Six acres of landscaped gardens n Dedicated Wedding Planner n Packages available throughout the year n Georgian Manor in country setting
Pen-y-Fai, Bridgend, Mid Glamorgan CF31 4NG | 01656 720212 www.court-colman-manor.com
LOOK DIVINE, FEEL DIVINE
Divine The next time you’re having a wander around the shops in Porthcawl’s centre, make sure that you pop into Divine, you will not be disappointed when you do. This independent retailer is filled with an overwhelming assortment of colours and scents that greet you from the moment you step inside. With bath bombs, candles, branded jewellery and clothes, including scarves, hats, gloves and Italian fashion items, walking into Divine truly is an individual and unique experience.
“This independent retailer is filled with an overwhelming assortment of colours and scents that greet you from the moment you step inside.”
39 John Street, Porthcawl CF36 3BA 01656 773300 Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter C O SY & C O M FO R TA B L E
The Brentwood Hotel With Autumn on its way, it’s time to snuggle up, get cosy and relax in a room made with your comfort in mind. The Brentwood Hotel is located minutes from Porthcawl’s beautiful coastline and is just a short walk from Porthcawl’s town centre. With 23 ensuite rooms and a bar that has karaoke, disco and live music nights, in addition to a beer garden, home-cooked food and reasonably priced branded ales and lagers, The Brentwood Hotel should be on your list when you need to let your hair down or get away from it all. 37 - 41 Mary Street, Porthcawl CF36 3YN 01656 782725 www.brentwoodhotel.net Like on Facebook THIS SEASONS ‘IN’ FASHIONS
Boutique 53 The fashion industry is constantly evolving. Don’t get caught in a fashion disaster, visit Boutique 53 and stay on top of the latest trends. In the few months that Boutique 53 has been open it has received an incredible response from customers who flock to the boutique to get all the latest fashions. Stocking great pieces featured on the 2015 catwalks including incredible collections by Junge, Rever Jackets and Crush Fur Coats. 53 Wellfield Road, Cardiff CF24 3PA 029 2049 7988 www.boutique53.com Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter 45
Why head to Europe when there are so many amazing places to enjoy in the British Isles? Vale Life paid a visit to York, staying at Middlethorpe Hall, a National Trust Hotel to explore England’s ‘Eternal City’and all that it and one of Britain’s most historic cities.
MIDDLETHORPE HALL
Location, location … Middlethorpe Hall is a striking redbrick William and Mary country house hotel. Middlethorpe Hall, part of Historic House Hotels, stands in 20 aces of manicured gardens and parkland just outside of the historic city of York. The history … Once the home of the famous feminist and diarist Lady Mary Wortley-Montagu, Middlethorpe has been restored with carefully chosen antiques and artwork and open fireplaces. Its 29 bedrooms are all individually furnished and man offer stunning views of the grounds surrounding the hotel.
“The hotel has been awarded two AA Rosettes and Restaurant of the Year in 2013.”
We stayed in …. A gorgeous suite which included a lounge, bedroom, dressing room and bathroom. An added touch was fresh flowers and chocolates. What’s nearby … York is one of Britain’s most historic cities, and is till surrounded by its medieval city walls. York’s city walls contain some of the most splendid urban architecture in the British Isles, including York Minster, the Minster Treasurers House, Fairfax House, the medieval street of The Shambles, the Castle and its outstanding museum, and a profusion of other fascinating buildings and museums. In addition, many come to York to see the National Railway Museum, which contains the world’s fastest steam locomotive and a splendid collection of royal railway carriages. 46
What about the food? Dinner is served is the classically panelled dining room overlooking the magnificent gardens. The cuisine is British with both traditional and contemporary touches for which the hotel has been awarded two AA Rosettes and Restaurant of the Year in 2013. You could try the tasting menu, as we did, which is specially designed by head chef Nicholas Evans, who started out aged 19 as Commis Chef at Middlethorpe, before honing his skills at wellrespected hotel restaurants including Llangoed Hall and The Celtic Manor before returning to Middlethorpe. The Tasting Menu is £69 pp or £99 pp if paired with wines. This seven course extravaganza includes chilled tomato consume, confit of chicken with smoked leek and mushroom terrine, pan-fried fillet of Whitby landed turbot,
Yorkshire Dales lamb, frozen basil parfait and toasted vanilla marshmallow. Or you could try the more traditional three course a la carte dinner menu at £43 pp. No less impressive, dishes include roast diver-caught scallops with brawn ballottine, butter-roasted Eastcoast lobster with sea vegetables and confit filet of wild sea trout with Whitby crab. Puddings are something to save room for, with such delights as new season Yorkshire rhubarb and hot blood orange shuffle. Please note, the menus change with each season.
We indulged in a full facial which lasted 55 minutes and was pure bliss but you could choose one of their wide range of beauty treatments using Decléor, Neom Organics, Shellac and Jessica products. To sum up … Having thoroughly enjoyed our weekend stay in such beautiful surroundings, we could easily understand how Middlethorpe Hall is so popular as a wedding venue. Thankfully we’ve got that box already ticked!
How do they keep you entertained? An essential part of a visit to Middlethorpe Hall is the Spa. We worked out in the gym, swam in the warm clear water of pool, relaxed in the steam room, sauna and the bubbling waters of the whirlpool bath.
Middlethorpe Hall Hotel Restaurant and Spa, Bishopthorpe Road York YO23 2GB 01904 641241 info@middlethorpe.com www.middlethorpe.com Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter and YouTube
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Watching Pugh’s Garden Village in Radyr transform itself over the last few years has been intriguing. I loved the Farm Shop as soon as it opened and the new café, where the new extension and shop is now, has been a triumph. By my boundless enthusiasm, you’re probably guessing I’m a fan.
A BEAUTIFUL
“ We are passionate about customer service.” Walk through the new entrance at Pugh’s Garden Village and you’re greeted with a friendly face at the new reception and information area. The brand new two storey extension is now home to Pugh’s management team on the first floor and the ground floor space has been opened up to create a beautifully spacious gift shop with a fantastic range of products carefully selected to ensure there is something to suit all budgets whilst meeting Pugh’s exacting quality standard. Along with hundreds of new top-of-the-range gift products and well-known brands to suit all occasions and ages. Helen Pugh has spent the last year thoroughly researching the latest gift trends and has identified a truly amazing selection.
From children’s toys and gifts including well-known brands such as Jellycat and Orange Tree, to home furnishings and fragrance (Pugh’s carry a lovely range of natural wooden wick candles from Root), and beautifully designed cushions laid out on handcrafted solid oak furniture. There’s also a range of handmade products made in Wales by local brands such as The Polka Dot Duck and beauty and skincare by Miss Patisserie and De Paloma, so you really will be spoiled for choice. Nicola Pugh says, “Creating a new area specifically for gifts enables us to enhance the gardening section which is the real heart of the business. Matthew Harding Director of Pugh’s Construction has worked tirelessly 48
on the project over the past year and the finish speaks for itself.” Managing Director, Graham Pugh, says, “I’d like to thank our staff for all their hard work. We listened to our loyal customers and we have taken great pride in being able to develop and transform Pugh’s from what has always been a great garden centre into the complete shopping experience.” When describing the new shop to friends I use the caterpillar/butterfly analogy - the transformation is that impressive. As a shopping experience, whether you have green fingers and are buying for the garden or just looking for a gift, Pugh’s Garden Village really is the perfect package.
TRANSFORMATION
Pugh’s Garden Village Radyr Tynant Nurseries, Morganstown, Radyr Cardiff CF15 8LB 029 2084 2017 Also at Pugh’s Garden Village Wenvoe Port Road Wenvoe CF5 6AD 029 2059 8118 info@stylegardens.co.uk www.pughsgardencentre.co.uk
We like Porthcawl, it has it all: a cute little harbour, an elegant promenade, stunning beaches, rugged coastline, a fab funfair and cool independent shops. What’s not to love?
NOTTAGE & PORTHCAWL
Porthcawl’s bustling high street
HERE FOR YOUR CONVENIENCE
Nottage Stores It is not often that a convenience store actually lives up to its name. Luckily for locals Nottage Stores manages to exceed all expectations. Open from 7am until 9pm every single day of the year, including Bank Holidays, Christmas and New Year, Nottage Stores carries everything you need from fresh groceries, frozen goods, wines, beers and spirits to daily newspapers, magazines and national lottery tickets. If you look up ‘Convenience’ in the dictionary you may even find a picture of Nottage Stores. Heol Y Capel, Nottage, Porthcawl CF36 3ST 01656 784339 Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter
T H E F A M I LY B A R B E R S
BIKES FOR ALL!
FO R T H E VA P E R S
Station Hill Barbers
Onit Sports
E-Cig Lifestyle
There are no appointments needed at Station Hill Barbers, the family run salon that is open 6 days a week and can provide professional haircuts for every member of the family. With free parking and reasonable prices, think Station Hill when you next need a trim.
When looking for entry or elite level bikes, then Onit Sports should be on your destination list. Stocking the very best in road, triathlon, mountain and hybrid bikes, Onit also stocks Castelli cycling clothing and accessories.
Whether you are new to vaping or an experienced user, E-Cig is the place to go when looking for starter kits, batteries, liquid tanks and accessories. Come and try as Vaping is here to stay.
17a Station Hill, Porthcawl CF36 5DL 07906 218353 Like on Facebook
4 Eastern Promenade, Porthcawl CF36 5TS 01656 857202 www.onitsports.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter 50
Heol Y Capel, Nottage, Porthcawl CF36 3ST 0845 073 7144 www.electroniclifestyle.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter
G E T O N YA B I K E S A N D R I D E T O
The Broomwagon Cafe Porthcawl’s newest home of delicious food is barely a few months old, yet already receiving rave reviews from the locals. Run by a husband and wife tag team, The Broomwagon Cafe should be on your list of places to visit when in the mood for delicious coffee, light meals and mouth-watering cakes. Located at the bottom of New Road nearest the beach, the lovely staff do everything they can to make you feel welcome. After one visit, Broomwagon might become your favourite cafe. 11 New Road, Porthcawl CF36 5DL 07583 209372 Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter BOUTIQUE FEMME
Bahia Pop into Bahia for for something a little bit different this Autumn/ Winter season. Bahia is a ladies emporium with a difference. It’s overall quirky nature is the perfect home for a great range of items that have all been hand picked for you to stand out from the crowd. With a beautiful range of unique clothing, jewellery, handbags, scarves and shoes that you will not find on the high street. Station Hill, Porthcawl CF36 5DN 01656 856474 Like on Facebook
“An Aladdin’s cave.”
E S TA B L I S H E D 1 9 8 0
Porthcawl Marine Porthcawl Marine is the expert surf shop that has been offering everything a surfer could possibly need for over 35 years. They have recently launched their brand new website that is jam packed with surfboards, body boards, wet suits, footwear and clothing, and with 20% off your first order it’s well worth a look. In store they also give you the option to secure any item of stock for a small deposit and offer interest free monthly payments to help spread the cost making your favourite brands more affordable.
“ Offering everything a surfer could possibly need.”
Opening Times Monday to Friday 10:30am - 5:30pm Saturday 10am - 5:30pm Sunday 11am - 4pm 20 New Road, Porthcawl CF36 5DN 01656 784785 www.porthcawlmarine.co.uk Like on Facebook 51
In a recent study it was revealed that children educated at private schools earn almost £200,000 more by their early forties than pupils who go through the state system.
ST CLARE’S SCHOOL Vale Life met with the Head of St Clare’s School, Simon Antis, to find out what, in his opinion, makes this school the first choice for parents.
When was the school’s last inspection? The most recent Estyn inspection report graded the nursery at St Clare’s as “Excellent” in June 2014. This is the highest grading that Estyn awards and reflects the high standard of teaching in the nursery, and the professional care that is given to all boys and girls. The whole school underwent an inspection in April 2015. Staff and pupils at St Clare’s School celebrated the Estyn inspection which graded the school as ‘Good’ in all areas. Inspectors cited the well-structured curriculum, the quality of teaching, a whole school tracking system to monitor pupil progress and an environment of care and support for pupils as key factors in school performance. Does the school offer continuous progression from 5 to 11 or 13? St Clare’s is a day school for boys and girls aged from 2½ in our nursery all the way up to to 18 in our sixth form. Headmaster, Simon Antis, is passionate about the value of ‘all through’ education. Few children in Britain could boast a 16 year education in one setting without the disruption and upheaval of the usual transition points which can so often impact on academic and social progress. There are also considerable pastoral benefits in terms of mentoring, shadowing and buddying that can have such an impact on behaviour and most importantly happiness. A happy child is invariably a motivated child and, invariably, an over-performing child.
What is the average class size? The average class size is twelve in the nursery with fifteen in the Prep and Senior schools. I am mindful of the importance of ensuring we remain small enough for everyone in the community to be well known and cared for, but large enough to provide the full range of opportunities and chances for the young people in our care. Does the school offer scholarships or bursaries? There are a range of grants, discounts, scholarships and bursaries available to parents. Bridgend County Borough Council offer Early Years Grants for children who attend the nursery for at least 10 hours over three days a week. We also accept childcare vouchers. We offer a limited number of academic and sport scholarships to pupils going in to Year 7 and Year 12 and these are available to both internal and external candidates. Academic excellence at St Clare’s is defined as a pupil who consistently over performs compared with national averages. Typically, but not always, this would be around Level 5a at the end of Year 6. Limited sixth form scholarships for entry to Year 12 will also be made available and these will be awarded on the basis of GCSE results but are only likely to be awarded to students attaining at least an A grade average. 52
Our sports scholars will be expected to set the very best example to others through their high levels of motivation and commitment, and support the school by assisting and representing St Clare’s in a range of sports and activities. Whilst we are interested to receive applications from all talented young sportsmen and women, we look favourably on applicants with potential in our school’s focus sports of rugby, football, cricket, netball and athletics or cross country. We also offer sibling discounts and means tested bursaries are also available which are subject to annual review and the parents are required to complete a financial means questionnaire. What is the academic pace and focus of the school? Do you focus largely on academic achievement or is the approach more holistic? Enthusiastic though we are about our school, its achievements and impressive facilities, we never lose sight of the fact that our core purpose is to ensure our children’s holistic development and wellbeing. St Clare’s educates the whole child in preparation for life, higher education and the world of work. We value your child’s happiness. St Clare’s pupils become confident, balanced, critical thinkers who are well prepared for life beyond school, wherever that may be.
During their time with us, they feel valued as individuals in a community where their talents flourish. Are the pupils grouped by ability? All students are academically assessed on entry to the school which allows the school to create an individual programme of learning for each student in all subjects, setting appropriate targets for progression which create the right amount of challenge. How does the school cater for age differences of younger children in a year group, according to month of birth within the academic year? This is especially relevant if your child has a summer birthday, so will be one of the youngest in the year group. We place great value on our pupils’ value added performance. As well as achieving consistently excellent academic results that outperform all other schools in the area, our pupils overperform significantly with children of similar abilities in the average UK school. What systems are in place to monitor academic performance, what is the assessment policy and how does the school keep parents informed? St Clare’s is data rich. This means we are using and sharing recognised and respected innovative pupil tracking systems used by the most successful and progressive UK schools.
This means we can empower teachers to have a meaningful and accurate dialogue with pupils and parents and plan for the future. Our commitment to regular student assessment, tracking and benchmarking gives staff an oversight of each student’s academic progress which enables us to plan academic support to the individual for those who have the potential to progress more quickly in specific subjects, or to provide academic mentoring to encourage achievement by students needing more support. During the course of the school year, we create many opportunities for parents to both understand and support their child’s progress including regular academic reports, face-to-face discussions and access to their child’s individualised learning plan and ongoing assessment data. How does the school stretch especially gifted children? Our level of understanding about each student is second to none. By targeting subjects in which they have made rapid progress or those in which they have the potential to succeed, we ensure that they achieve the best outcomes in public examinations.
“We are delighted to report the best A Level results in ten years.” 53
How well did the children perform in this year’s A level results? We are delighted to report the best A Level results in ten years, with our Sixth Form students achieving 43% A*/A grades. This is 2% higher than last year’s outstanding grades. The number of St Clare’s students achieving an A grade has steadily increased over the last five years to an impressive 37%. This compares to 23% of students across the whole of Wales who achieved grades in the same bracket.
St Clare’s School Newton, Porthcawl CF36 5NR 01656 782509 01656 789966 (Admissions) info@stclares-school.co.uk www.stclares-school.co.uk
Skinade, the revolutionary skin supplement drink, is fast becoming a ‘must have’ product for celebrities because of its great results on skin and hair after 30 days. We chatted to salon owner Sharon Brading who stocks the product to find out more.
A BEAUTY FAVOURITE Please tell us about yourself... My name is Sharon Brading, I’m a hairdresser. My salon is called The Room which is based at Virgin Active Health Club, Cwmbran. How did you hear about Skinade? I first stumbled across Skinade after reading a magazine article and decided to research a little more. I felt slightly dubious about this “new product” and wanted to satisfy myself that it was all it claimed to be. What made you want to stock the product? It really is an innovative product, which is different, and sets itself apart from other health and beauty products. It’s a skin supplement drink, offering something entirely unique to users and is refreshingly new to the health and beauty industry.
How many of your clients are using Skinade? Currently thirty or so. I was surprised at the high number of my clients who wished to try it but, having used it myself and enjoying very good results, I was very happy to recommend it. What changes have they noticed using the product? Clients have noticed reduced appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, energy levels way up, as well as the skin looking radiant, more hydrated and fabulous glowing skin! I’ve received great feedback from clients who have been struggling with psoriasis, saying that it has improved or disappeared and less visible.
“ I have seen impressive results in the textures of their skin, together with flawlessness and radiance.”
What changes have you noticed in your clients who are using Skinade? I have seen impressive results in the textures of their skin, together with flawlessness and radiance. I have also noticed improvement with clients’ hair including strength, restored moisture and great sheen.
Do you use it yourself and, if so, what changes have you noticed? Yes I do use Skinade myself and am loving the smooth, glowing texture of my skin. It is truly an amazing product and I’m excited to share with friends and clients. Would you recommend the product to others? Yes, definitely. Prepare to be amazed by Skinade. I was!
If you are a beauty or hair salon and would like to stock Skinade, then please contact 08451 300 205 info@skinade.com www.skinade.com Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter 54
Caprice Verdena £79.99 Rieker Wilde £69.99
Fly Solv £150
Vitti 3508 £140 Rieker Chance £62
Caprice Verdenafur £64.99
Fly Meli £105
Rieker NewYork £67
Vitti 3539 £150
OUR TOP BOOTS & BAGS Step out in style this Autumn with Walters Shoes
Visit us online or on the high street
Bolla Burlington £60
Heavenly Feet Fontana £45
Fly Sato £135
Heavenly Feet Annie £49
nica Catherine £65
Lunar Dixie £55
Vitti 2176 Bag £150
Vitti 3498 £130
Walters Shoes, 38 John Street, Porthcawl Call: 01656 783609 Website: www.waltersshoes.co.uk Facebook: waltersshoes Twitter: @waltersshoes Instagram: @waltersshoes
Cyfoes Healthcare in Talbot Green is going from strength to strength. Now in its third year, the clinic has made some big changes and with The Well Being Centre now onboard this has enabled clients to access both skin specialist treatments and clinical body work treatments.
HEALTH &WELLBEING
T HE HOLISTIC A PPROACH “ Whilst it’s essentially a clinical and medical service that we provide, we would like Cyfoes to have a more holistic approach to health.” Andrea says, “Cyfoes is evolving. With The Well Being Centre now permanently based here, it enables both men and women to access treatments for the whole body under one roof.” How have things been since we last spoke? Very good. We’ve built up such a loyal client base from clients all over the Vale and beyond through our exposure in Vale Life and continuing word of mouth. In addition, we now have The Well Being Centre on board, so we are able to offer our clients a range of reflexology, massage and aromatherapy treatments tailored to their individual physical and emotional needs. This is, of course, on top of the range of specialist skin care services we offer. What skin treatments does Cyfoes offer? We can help with a wide range of problems such as aging skin, acne, moles and excessive hair, all of which can have a massive effect on people’s self-esteem. We also offer enhanced aesthetic treatments including dermal fillers, facials, injectable muscle relaxants, FRX CO2 Laser rejuvenation and more.
What skincare ranges do you offer? A lot of skin issues can be helped by a regular skincare regime. We have come to trust the Murad brand and product over the last three years. This is a range developed by a US dermatologist. I have seen his products work and my clients are not only happy with the results, but also the value for money. How do the two businesses work complement each other? I was lucky enough to meet Louise and Rachel last year. Being females in business, we had lots in common and we discussed how we could combine our services under one roof. Apart from being really skilled at what they do, they are also amazing people and I’m delighted that we are now able to offer all their services at our clinic. We have had tremendous success in the introduction of sports massage, subfertility and maternity reflexology. The girls have successfully treated long term pain sufferers, helped ladies with fertility issues. We regularly run taster sessions so people can come along and see how our treatments can make such positive changes to their health and wellbeing. 56
What else is coming on board in the future? We are very excited to be offering an osteopath and podiatrist at the clinic.
Cyfoes Healthcare 35-37 Upper Floor, Talbot Road Talbot Green CF72 8AD 01443 223352 info@cyfoeshealthcare.com www.cyfoeshealthcare.com Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter
When former Miss Wales winner and Miss World contestant Lucy Whitehouse lived in Barry, she needed a hair salon that could work around her busy schedule and who could keep her hair looking in tip top condition for her beauty assignments. She chose to work with Blu Hair Design, Penarth and this relationship has continued including her recent wedding to Irish rugby star Tommy Bowe.
BLU H AIR DESIGN
Vale Life chatted to Lucy to find out more. How long have you been going to Blu Hair Design? I’ve been going to Blu for the last eight years. It has a great vibe - I love Penarth. What service do you have? I always go to Blu for my colour. Who do you work with at Blu? I’ve worked with Alexis. She’s amazing! How has Blu helped you in your career? Blu were great to me when I was Miss Wales in 2009. They were always there to fix my hair on last minute occasions and kept my hair in great condition.
What do you like about going to Blu? I like the relaxed and friendly atmosphere at Blu. Congratulations on your recent marriage, how was the day? We had a super weekend. All our good friends and family were there for the big day so it was definitely a day we will never forget. Did Blu help you on the day? Yes Blu did my bridesmaids, my mums and my hair. Alexis and Molly arrived early on the day and kept us all on schedule. They did a great job and kept me very relaxed.
“ I like the relaxed and friendly atmosphere in Blu.” 57
What do you think makes Blu special? They have been very good to me over the years. I have been living in Ireland for two years now so every time I fly back, I book in straight away to get my hair done. Would you recommend the salon to others? Most definitely.
Blu Hair Design Unit 1/1a Washington Buildings Penarth CF64 2AF 029 2070 4040 07709 324 248 info@bluhairdesign.com www.bluhairdesign.com
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Dr. Hauschka Dual Eye and Brow Palette www.drhauschka.co.uk £32.95
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Clarins Eyebrow Pencil www.clarins.com £17
Heyland & Whittle Limited Edition Black Narcissi Candle www.heylandandwhittle.co.uk £30
B EST BEAUTY 4
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BUYS 5
Clarins Ombre Matte Eye Shadow www.clarins.com £19
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Jo Malone The Mimosa & Cardamom Collection www.jomalone.co.uk Prices from £26
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Clarins Rouge Eclat - 21 Tawny Rose / 22 Red Paprika www.clarins.com £19
Make Believe Self Tan Mist with Bronzer www.makebelievebeauty.com £14.99
Yves Saint Laurent Black Opium Eau de Toilette 30ml - £39.00, 50ml - £52.00, 90ml - £77.00
Dr. Hauschka Night Serum www.drhauschka.co.u £39
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Bare Minerals Blemish Remedy Foundation www.bareminerals.co.uk £26
Justin Maunder and Mike Pycroft of JMP Group pride themselves on a ‘pressure off ’ approach to business. Quite refreshing in a sector that is notoriously high pressure in its approach. We talk to Mike to find out more.
VALE GLAZING & VALUEFOLD
What experience do you have in the industry? We both have over fifteen years experience in the conservatory/double glazing industry and have worked for national, large independent and local companies. We have gained valuable experience along the way. We feel we can offer the very best products at a fair price and have a passion for customer service. What services and products do you offer? JMP is able to supply and fit orangeries, tiled roof sunrooms as well as conservatories and porches. We also do garage conversions, PVCu windows/doors, composite doors and replacement rainwater goods. Do you have a particular area of expertise? Replacement conservatory roofs is also a speciality of ours, where a lightweight tiled/slate roof replaces a polycarbonate or glass roof - the existing conservatory may be too hot in the summer and freezing cold in the winter. The new roof gives the clients back a room that they can use 52 weeks of the year.
“ We feel we can offer the very best products at a fair price.”
The Valuefold arm to our business specialises in aluminium products. Aluminium is rapidly becoming the product of choice for the discerning customer. Advancements in thermal performance of aluminium combined with outstanding performance and durability enables the products to not only be very aesthetically pleasing but also gives slimmer site lines in comparison to PVCu. We sell a substantial amount of bi-folding doors and, with most of our projects, the clients do choose to add the ‘Blinds-InGlass’ option for the complete solution for shading as well as privacy. We have an excellent relationship with our fabricator and can generally supply and fit aluminium products within three weeks of a confirmed order in our standard colour offerings of White, Anthracite Grey, Black or the dual colour option Anthracite Grey on White. Testament to our expertise in this field is proven by the number of developers and builders that we also supply, and we are the approved supplier to many architects in the principality. What areas do you cover? We cover all of South Wales but have also carried out contracts in the Bristol area, Gloucester and Devon. 59
What do you believe makes JMP Group special? What sets you apart? JMP Group offers exceptional quality products and workmanship with a real focus on customer service. We also work to a ‘First Price, Best Price’ policy and are very transparent in our pricing and believe strongly in a ‘Pressure Off ’ sales process. People generally do not like to be sold to, they just like to buy!
JMP Group Limited Incorporating Vale Glazing & Valuefold Mike 07971 837 804 Justin 07973 636 484 enquiries@valeglazing.co.uk enquiries@valuefold.co.uk www.valeglazing.co.uk www.valuefold.co.uk
If you have issues with thin eyebrows, smudged eyeliner and faded lipstick, semi-permanent make- up could be perfect for you. On New Road, Porthcawl, there’s a new gorgeous and glamorous boutique clinic which is owned and run by a truly experienced professional in her field - Roslyn Paull. This is what Ros told us.
FACE FACTOR Why do clients choose to have semi-permanent make-up? There are many reasons. Some clients want to save the hassle of applying make-up every day, while others want to change or enhance their looks. We also see clients who can’t wear make-up due to skin conditions and allergies. The techniques I use can subtly change a client’s features; lip contours can be improved, eye contours enhanced and brow shape changed.
What experience do you have in this field? I have been in the industry for seven years. I have had extensive training in the latest techniques and am a Nouveau Contour trained technician. I use the latest, hi-tech equipment to ensure that I deliver a superior treatment. I was trained by the best in the profession and was the first in the UK to achieve the Nouveau Contour Gold Elite Recognition Award. I also qualified in Advanced Semi-Permanent Cosmetic Techniques at the city of Rostov-on-Don in Russia, which is a world centre of excellence for semi-permanent makeup. Why do clients come to you? The old adage is true - you wouldn’t let just anyone cut your hair so why trust anybody but a highly qualified professional with your most important asset, your face? I see a lot of badly executed work which I have to correct. I never pass judgement, all I would say is that when clients are considering this type of work, they should first always check professional credentials, find out whether the practitioner is insured, seek out testimonials by happy clients, and of course know the price. If it’s cheap, then it’s cheap for a reason. I am a true perfectionist. Even though I consider myself to be at the top of my game, I don’t rest on my laurels and constantly attend training courses to keep abreast of new techniques and equipment.
I only want to offer the best to my clients. I occasionally work with cancer patients who have lost hair due to chemotherapy or radiation. This work gives me great satisfaction knowing that I can help these clients look their best. Where do your clients come from? All over. Locally and from as far afield as Cardiff, West Wales and Monmouth. I still provide my services at high end salons in these areas but I find that clients are willing to travel to see me. Do you offer other beauty treatments? We also offer a Botox and fillers clinic on a regular basis with a medical professional who is fully licensed, insured and experienced. You’re now offering massage and beauty treatments. Tell us more? Yes. We’re delighted that Geraldine Spensley (Gez) has joined Face Factor. Gez has been in the beauty industry for fourteen years since qualifying in Bridgend. She has established and runs a successful mobile business, and during the intervening years has added corporate and salon based experience to her repertoire. 60
She now offers an extensive range of beauty and massage therapies to our clients from within the Face Factor salon. These include Indian Head, Swedish and Hot Stones massages; Harmony Gelish nails; a full range of waxing; and Luxury and Advanced facials and pedicures. What experience does Gez have in the industry? She has a vast amount of recognised and accredited training and qualifications, obtained locally and in Swansea and Cambridgeshire and is a qualified cosmetic electrotherapist (non-surgical facelifts), beauty therapist and masseuse. She updates her training and knowledge on an annual basis. What makes clients come to Gez? The experience gained in the corporate and busy high-end salon environments enables her to work with precision and at speed when needed; and by making most of her mobile business salonbased within the Face Factor salon, she can now offer individually tailored and more relaxing luxury treatments, to make the client feel special. This is particularly beneficial with the Luxury and Advanced facials and massage treatments, where individual problems can be addressed.
What products does Gez use? Gez really loves Dermalogica products. She also uses Carlton electrotherapy products when giving clients their electrotherapy treatments. What does the future hold for Face Factor? Due to client demand, we are looking to expand the clinic to offer more treatments and take on an additional staff member. We are very happy with how the clinic has been accepted in Porthcawl (we’re both from this area) and are proud to offer the high end services that our clients need and deserve.
TESTIMONIAL
Escape at Face Factor I recently visited Escape at Face Factor in Porthcawl. What an amazing experience it was. I’ve had facial treatments for many, many years in different places by different therapists but I have to say this was the best to date. Gez is extremely professional, knowledgeable, is great at what she does and creates a wonderful atmosphere. Will definitely use her services again as opposed to anyone else. Macie
Face Factor 13 Station Hill, New Road, Porthcawl 01656 856560 or 07788 160572 info@facefactor.co.uk www.facefactor.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter
USTU WOULD LIKE TO WELCOME JODIE DONOVAN TO THE USTU TEAM AS OUR BEAUTY THERAPIST AND NAIL ARTIST
USTU 94 JOHN STREET PORTHCAWL CF36 3DT 01656 773770
u EXCEPTIONAL CUTTING, COLOURING & STYLING u OPEN, LIGHT & RELAXING ENVIRONMENT u FULL RANGE OF BEAUTY TREATMENTS u EXPERIENCE USTU FOR YOURSELF. CALL TODAY!
M O B I L E PA M P E R PA R T I E S
Pixies and Poppets Pixies and Poppets is a mobile party service for children aged 3-18 run by Rebekah Boucher. Rebekah, an accredited skin and beauty consultant, has worked for Clinique and Benefit cosmetics and has also worked in schools across the Vale and Cardiff for six years. She has combined her love of beauty and her passion for working with children to create this new and exciting business. Rebekah can either visit you at your home or at a venue to suit you and offers packages which include The Pixies Pamper (make-up/glitter face paint, mini manicure with polish, glitter tattoos, dress-up box, hair styling), The Classic Poppets Party (face painting
and glitter tattoos), and sleepover packages for older girls who want make-up lessons. Rebekah is fully CRB/DBS checked and has worked with children with a variety of complex needs. Pixies a nd Poppets can also work its magic at functions and events for children of all ages to enjoy. Packages start from just £40 and can be tailored to suit any theme of your choosing. Party bags can also be provided. Pixies and Poppets is based in Penarth and covers the Vale, Cardiff and surrounding areas. www.pixiesandpoppets.co.uk 07912 548 313 Facebook Pixies and Poppets Twitter @pixiesnpoppets Instagram @pixiesandpoppets
VALE R ESORT SPA
REVIEW: SUNDARI, NEEM HAND OIL - A REVOLUTION FOR DRY HANDS I consider myself very lucky to be sent lots of products to review, so when I received the Sundari Neem Hand Oil, a product used at the Vale Spa, I looked forward to trying it. Not that I suffer particularly from dry hands but, as I am aging, I am finding that my hands are looking more creased. I had read that the product helped with dry, bothersome cuticles so I was keen to see if this product addressed this problem. I have tried a few products in the past but have found them greasy, but not with this one. It comes with a roller applicator, which means I wouldn’t be dropping it all over the place and I felt that I’d be getting more bang for my buck. It’s very light, absorbs quickly and leaves my hands, and cuticles, feeling very soft. The smell is lovely and very natural.
A lot of creams use synthetic fragrance and chemical preservatives, but this product is all about the Neem Oil, extracted from the Neem Tree (known as the Pharmacy Tree for its healing benefits), extracted from three fruits which act as an amazing anti-oxidant, and Bisabolol, a natural ingredient known for its anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal benefits.
“A revolution!” Due to its size, I can keep a bottle in my handbag. This is definitely a product that lives up to its promise and, at only £11 for 9ml; it doesn’t break the bank either. 63
The Vale Resort Hensol Park, Hensol CF72 8JY 01443 667800 www.vale-hotel.com/Spa Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter and Instagram
Fully working hips and knees are now within easy reach. Life can be so much more rewarding if you are able to move properly. That’s why we have launched the Joint Replacement Centre Wales. We perform hundreds of successful routine treatments every year. Our professional team of consultants based in our state-of-the-art hospitals at Cardiff Bay and the Vale of Glamorgan will be on hand to provide first class care and support every step of the way. We’ve even made it less painful to pay with our more affordable price plans. Call us today for an initial consultation. Freedom awaits...
02920 836 714
@jrcwales
nuffieldcardiffandvale.com
CARDIFF & VALE HOSPITALS Hospitals + Health Checks + Physio + Gyms
CARDIFF
Advanced laser and aesthetic treatments Positioned discreetly in a beautifully renovated coach house on Whitchurch Common in Cardiff, the friendly and professional team at Beauty Advance Laser Clinic offers the very latest in advanced laser treatments as well as cosmetic and aesthetic treatments. Hi Daniela, it’s looking beautiful in here as always. Have you made any changes since we last spoke? Yes, lots of changes. We’re so excited to now be working with doctors and surgeons and are now offering the New Silhouette Lift. For those not familiar with this new technology, it offers a double lifting and regenerating effect, through the action of re-absorbable sutures with bidirectional cones. That sounds exciting, tell us more. It’s a brand new treatment called “Soprano Ice” which is a Permanent Hair Removal System that does not hurt at all; yes, it’s pain-free and reduces all hair colour on all skin colour – even tanned skins.
“These lasers are all new to Wales.”
We also have the new NIR which tightens and lift the skin and a new Dye VL for pigmented lesions and blood vessels. These lasers are all new to Wales – they’re the celebrities’ treatment of choice and we’re delighted that they’re here in our Cardiff clinic. We truly believe that even though we are a relatively small, intimate, family run clinic, we are pioneers when it comes to bringing new, advanced treatments to our clients. Are all skin types suitable for laser treatment? I’m glad you asked that question. Absolutely, yes our new Soprano Ice laser can produce different light to get amazing results whatever your skin type; including Black Caribbean/ Asian skin – all can be treated safely. We’re enjoying great feedback from clients.
Daniela Evans, owner
Beauty Advance Laser Clinic The Coach House, Whitchurch Common Cardiff CF14 1DW 02920 529 552 www.beautyadvance.com Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter
S P E C I A L I S T N U F F I E L D H E A LT H
Nuffield - For Every Step of the Way In mid July, the Joint Replacement Centre Wales was proudly launched at the Nuffield Health Cardiff & Vale Hospitals. Based on their excellent reputation for treating bones and joints, the team has reviewed all the clinical evidence worldwide to ensure that they have developed the highest quality and safest way to fix joints and return patients to their best possible fitness and mobility. With the input of surgeons, nurses and physiotherapists, a leading edge programme for hip and knee replacement is tailored to individual needs. This makes sure that optimum pre-operative assessment prepares the patient for surgery and provides the right surgery; with the patient and the surgeon choosing exactly the right prosthesis (new joint) for them as an individual.
“The new streamlined service is now available to patients...”
GP Dr David Jenkins with Nuffield Health Cardiff & Vale Hospitals Marketing Manager Sarah Hussain, Hip Surgeon Mr Steve Jones, Theatre Manager Martine Buckland and Hospitals Director Simon Rogers
Not only that, expert senior physiotherapists are involved throughout, to work with each patient to get them safely back on their feet as soon as possible to their best level of mobility and fitness. Nuffield Health Cardiff & Vale Hospitals Director, Simon Rogers, explains, “What this means for patients is that we are with them every step of the way; from assessment, diagnosis and treatment, through to recovery and beyond. We provide a promise to follow up the care and treatment of each patient and support them all along the way. We have the backing of the whole Nuffield Health group to access the latest research evidence and best practice. As well as providing superior care throughout, we have also looked at 65
creating best value for patients who choose us for their treatment, to give a winning combination of better treatment for less.” On July 17 a launch event, attended by 140 consultants, GPs, physiotherapists and insurers, was held at Hensol Castle, near the Vale Hospital and the new lower-cost joint replacement service is now available to patients who choose private healthcare. Prices for patients who self-pay are now: total hip replacement £10,750, total knee replacement £11,750, with uni-compartmental or partial knee replacement at £9,995. For more information www.nuffieldcardiffandvale.com
With six offices across the Vale of Glamorgan and the Valleys, Davies and Jones Optometrists have been looking after the eye health of generations of families. It’s no wonder when people ask “Who are your opticians?”, the answer can often be...
DAVIES & JONES OPTOMETRISTS
Amongst the many services Davies and Jones Optometrists offer, here we focus on three - contact lenses, Ortho-K and dry eyes. Contact Lenses Davies and Jones Optometrists have many years experience fitting contact lenses going back to the first ‘hard’ (i.e. non-gas permeable) lenses, through permanent soft lenses that might be used for a year or two, to the most up-to-date astigmatic and varifocal disposable lenses. They worked closely with suppliers and were one of the first to be able to prescribe the new 1-day Acuvue Moist Multifocal lenses which are now available in a wide range of prescriptions and come with built in UV protection. They were active in the last stage trials of this fantastic new lens that gives people excellent close vision as well as distance in an extremely comfortable daily disposable lens.
Contact lenses can be very straightforward for a large number of people however, they can also demand a greater depth of knowledge than initially meets the eye, and they have a wide range of contact lens fitting options: several of their optometrists are active members of the British Contact Lens Association. They are proud to work directly with key suppliers, and are also proud to say that, being completely independently owned, they have no ties to any lens manufacturers and, as such, are able to offer any suitable contact lens at a competitive price, whilst providing appropriate aftercare, critical to safe, comfortable contact lens wear. ORTHO-K Ortho-K is an overnight vision correction that allows short sighted patients to see without the need for wearing spectacles or contact lenses during waking hours. Davies & Jones 66
have been providing this since 2009 to some very happy clients. This is especially suitable for people who are very active and find wearing daytime vision correction inconvenient. Dry Eyes Dry eye is a common condition affecting around 1 in 5 people in the UK and there’s an awful lot more to this than meets the eye too! The term used in practice is ‘tear film instability’ and this demonstrates that this area is not just about adding dry eye drops, but rather a fuller understanding of where the problem arises. It occurs when there is a disruption in the tear film on the surface of the eye. When the tear film is not working efficiently the eye dries out and becomes inflamed. This can cause redness, grittiness, watering and intermittent, blurred vision that normally resolves after a blink, something like a bug on a windscreen.
Dry eye is often associated with blepharitis, which is a common eyelid inflammation and, with the right interventions can be readily eased. This very common condition causes itching and redness of the eyelids, as well as some crusting among the eyelashes that can make the eyes difficult to open on waking. This in turn makes the tear film on the front of the eye unstable, resulting in even more symptoms. The majority of people find that regular use of ocular lubricants (drops) and lid hygiene (so-called ‘scrubs’) stabilises the eye lash line and also the tear film, thus reducing symptoms significantly. However, there are a wide range of lubricants on the market; from drops to thicker gels and ointments. Davies & Jones’ optometrists will be able to advise which products would be most suitable for each individual and their specific needs. If lubricants alone do not significantly approve a person’s symptoms, they run a dedicated dry
eye clinic with more thorough investigation, treatment and advice, a service that is increasingly popular with many of their patients who find the onestop of diagnosis and treatment so much more convenient in busy schedules. TESTIMONIALS
What customers say... I just wanted to thank you so very much for fitting me with Ortho-K lenses, it so, so nice not having to wear glasses at all and not to have my soft contact lenses drying out in work. Thank you again! Elinor, Bridgend After suffering for many years with uncomfortable, itchy, red eyes that caused my vision to vary wildly, I would like to thank Owain Mealing for diagnosing my condition and planning my treatment regime, it has made such a difference to my vision using Blephaclean products; a real life changer! Mr D Carey, Pontypridd 67
Owain Mealing BSc optometry MCOptom Prof Cert Glaucoma Davies & Jones Optometrists www.daviesandjonesoptometrists.co.uk Dinas Powys 029 2051 4089 Ferndale 01443 730214 Porth 01443 682284 Talbot Green 01443 223124 Treorchy 01443 773879 Treherbert 01443 775899
Surprise Special someone
with a gift experience this Christmas If you’re looking for something that’s truly memorable, then give an experience to treasure at the Vale Resort this Christmas. Sit back, relax and enjoy some stress free Christmas shopping from the comfort of your very own armchair.
GIFT EXPERIENCES INCLUDE: SPA TREATMENTS | GOLF LESSONS | SHORT BREAKS ROUND OF GOLF | SPA PRODUCTS | A LA CARTE DINNER MEN’S HOT TOWEL SHAVE | GOLF CLUBS | AFTERNOON TEA CHOCOLATE & CUPCAKE MAKING | SURF LESSONS MONETARY VOUCHERS | AND MUCH, MUCH MORE CLICK OR COLLECT - THE CHOICE IS YOURS
01443 667800 | www.vale-hotel.com/gifts Vale Resort, Hensol Park, Hensol, Vale of Glamorgan, CF72 8JY
Jewellery is often the perfect gift for almost any occasion. Whether it’s an anniversary of a loved one, that little item that perfectly matches your style, or a celebratory watch for a job well done - the gift of jewellery is always a pleasant one and a moment that should be cherished. But what happens when the unfortunate happens, an accident occurs, or a fault appears? The answer is actually pretty simple, take it to Felicity Jewellers.
AS GOOD AS NEW
Here at felicity jewellers not only do we sell new and pre-owned jewellery we have a brilliant repair service undertaken by our very own goldsmith.
We pride ourselves on the quality of his work and we are always amazed how quickly he is able to turn around a repair. Every piece is then examined by our experienced staff before it leaves the shop. This renowned service deals with almost every possible jewellery repair including; resizing of rings, remodelling broken or unwanted jewellery, resetting precious stones, pearl and bead restringing as well as fixing watches and working with platinum, nine and eighteen carat gold. They even offer part exchange on their new items with old or damaged goods.
Before repair
After repair
So the next time something unfortunate happens to your favourite item of jewellery, or you’d like a piece remodelled or redesigned, don’t send it away, take it to the highly respected Felicity Jewellers in Bridgend and have it repaired locally. Checkout our online shop www.felicitybridgend.co.uk to see our sister department which is stocked with stunning boots shoes and accessories lots of perfect Christmas gifts.
Remodelled from rings
Remodelled from wedding ring
“This renowned service deals with almost every possible jewellery repair including; resizing of rings, remodelling broken jewellery and more.”
Remodlled
Remodlled from engagement ring 69
Felicity Jewellers 34 Nolton Street, Bridgend CF31 3BN 01656 658080 www.felicitybridgend.co.uk Like on Facebook
Retaining a nostalgic air for some, especially after that advert in the 1980s (Nick Kamen in his boxers), we popped in to chat with Soapy’s owner Annette Watkins - who quickly dispelled the myth that launderettes were only used in Albert Square!
SOAPY’S Roy and Annette Watkins bought Soapy’s as a launderette forty years ago. At the back of the building was an old banana store and, when this became available, they jumped at the chance to purchase that too. Fifteen years ago the two buildings were knocked through and they set up their dry cleaners. We visited Soapy’s for a quick chat to find out a more. How many people work at Soapy’s? Soapy’s employs six members of staff including Roy’s sister, Marina, who’s my right hand person and our son, Thomas, who’s learning the business. What services do you provide? In a word, cleaning. Roy will have a go at cleaning anything. At the moment we have Father Christmas suits in to refresh (boys and girls, these will be for Father Christmas’ helpers). We’ve had match mascot suits here i.e. monkeys and bears to clean. Oh and we also cleaned the ceremonial coat of the Welsh Regiment’s goat here.
So, there’s our self-service launderette which is used a lot by grateful holidaymakers in the area, and the elderly who may also stop for a chat while their wash is spinning. And our washing machines are larger than domestic machines so they’re a godsend for King sized duvets.
It sounds incredibly busy. As a family run business how do you manage your work/life balance? We are extremely busy and work does come first. Having said that, we do like to eat out at our customer’s restaurants, and, of course, we can admire the linen as well as enjoy their delicious food!
Please tell us about the dry cleaning part of the Soapy’s... You might have seen our sign written Soapy’s van on the road. We offer a door-to-door service, and our driver covers an area from the Mumbles to Cardiff; roughly a 25 mile radius from Porthcawl. We have a number of receiving shops in the Cardiff area for our dry cleaning. We also offer a very popular repair and alteration service.
What’s the latest news? Any exciting developments? We’ve just finished fully equipping our launderette with all new machinery. Now the focus is on training up Thomas to eventually take over the business from us. As anyone who knows me will have heard me say - let’s see what tomorrow brings!
We have our own linen, in a variety of colours, which is used by over forty restaurants and hotels and we also hire out our own tablecloths, napkins, and chair covers for private functions such as weddings and christenings. 70
“We have a number of receiving shops in the Cardiff area for our dry cleaning. We also offer a very popular repair and alteration service.”
Soapy’s The Old Banana Stores, Station Hill New Road, Porthcawl CF36 5DN 01656 788319 Follow on Facebook 71
It has been almost a year since business owner Julian Trott opened up The Florist in Penarth, and what a year it has been. Vale Life popped in for a chat with Julian to find out what the last twelve months have been like for him and what he has planned for the rest of the year and 2016.
THE FLORIST
Julian, please tell us about your first year in Penarth? I am so amazed by the incredibly positive response I have received about my shop over the last year. The support from the public has been simply astonishing. My list of new customers is constantly growing every day and I am thrilled when I see clients return again and again, as this helps confirm they’re happy with the work that I have done. What is your favourite part of being a florist? It has to be weddings. I love that I am able to help create the ultimate dream of the bride and groom, no matter how extravagant or minimalist. This last summer has been amazing as I have had the pleasure of taking part in so many weddings that I have lost count. In that time I have already received over thirty bookings for 2016 and still have lots of new enquires coming in daily.
“I see clients return again and again.�
This is also thanks to my recent partnership with the beautiful Holm House on Marine Parade in Penarth where, as the hotels florist, I am able to take part in many wonderful weddings and events. With Christmas just around the corner Julian is already beginning to put preparations in place ready for the holiday season with bespoke door wreaths, mantle arrangements, centrepieces and much more available. So call or pop in to see Julian and be awarded with some incredible floristry. 72
The Florist 12 Royal Buildings, Stanwell Road Penarth CF6 43ED 029 2070 1275 0781 225 1208 www.thefloristpenarth.com Like on Facebook, follow on Instagram
PROVIDING PEACE OF MIND
Scott Wroe Hearing Centre
The Scott Wroe Hearing Centre is a purposely designed practice that offers state-of-the-art testing, fitting and aftercare services to clients in Penarth and across the Vale.
The Centre includes a completely enclosed sound booth, speech mapping facilities and a fitting room to help demonstrate the latest hearing aid technology. We are an independent practice which enables us to recommend the best hearing aid for our clients’ particular needs.
“An independent practice.”
C O C K TA I L & W I N E B A R
The Pheasantry Change is a natural part of life, nothing stays the same forever. Sometimes change is bad, but in the case of The Pheasantry, change is very good indeed. Under brand new management, The Pheasantry has had a complete makeover. The truly unique decor inside is reminiscent of old speakeasies but with a modern day boutique style twist. Inside you will find a comprehensive drinks menu featuring spirits, beers and cocktails, and great food that ranges from simple snacks to sharing platters. 8 Royal Buildings, Penarth CF64 3ED 029 2090 7444 Like on Facebook SERVING PENARTH SINCE 2002
Foxy’s Deli Nothing makes an afternoon tea more idyllic than some deliciously prepared and authentic deli food. Foxy’s Deli has been reliably serving traditional delicatessen items to the people of Penarth for over 13 years. The shop has been nominated for several awards and has received a glowing review in Rick Stein’s food heroes. It is also the perfect place for a delicious afternoon tea, especially given their range of cheeses, chutneys, preserves and biscuits that Foxy’s believes makes theirs a cut above. 7 Royal Buildings, Penarth CF64 3ED 029 2025 1666 www.foxysdeli.com Like on Facebook, Follow on Twitter 73
Scott says, “All customers receive a personal, professional service to ensure everything from the first test to the aftercare is managed to the highest of standards. If you need a hearing test, or just advice, please get in touch.” 1 Station Approach, Penarth CF64 3EE 029 2070 7760 www.scottwroe-hearingcentre.co.uk
It’s a tough choice deciding where to book for Christmas and New Year. The venue has to be superb, the staff attentive, efficient and friendly, the atmosphere needs to be spot on but it’s the food that is and what should be the most important reason to book for you and your family. Vale Life chats to Head Chef Cieran Thomas of Holm House, Penarth about his philosophy of sourcing great local produce and his passion for putting only the best food on his plates.
HOLM HOUSE
Cieran where were you born and raised I am very proud to have been born and raised in Barry, South Wales How long have you been at Holm House I’ve been here since January 2015. What is your background? I have worked at the famed Beard to Tail, with James Sommerin of the Crown at Whitebrook and stages for the two and three Michelin star chefs Helene Darozze and Pierre Koffmann, as well as being part of the Culinary management team at the 2012 Olympics. What attracted you to work at Holm House? Definitely the venue and the ethos of the food we serve.
Speaking of ethos, what’s yours when it comes to food? We source all our menus from Wales; our fish, meat, vegetables – indeed everything from salt to oil and flour to milk. All our food is seasonal and I believe if you cannot grow it, hunt it or fish it at that particular time of the year, it should not be on the menu. Wales is rich in beautiful food and the best fish I have ever eaten comes from the Gower and Cardigan Bay. Our ingredients come from some amazing local suppliers including farms based in Cilcennin nr Aberaeron and Monmouth. I want to deliver this to our customers in the best way possible. I also feel that food should speak for itself – if you have a great raspberry don’t mess about with it!
What will Holm House be offering for Christmas and New Year? In December we will be offering a delicious set lunch and party menu from the 1st-24th. I have put together a menu which is full of dishes that are perfect to eat in the lead up to the big day and we are really looking forward to welcoming Christmas parties to Holm House. Our Christmas Day menu has of course got the traditional turkey - we have got a fabulous free range Bronze turkey booked - but also Welsh Goose and Wild Haunches of Venison. Puddings-wise, again I have put together the traditional with some other great options, all done using ingredients from local artisan suppliers.
“I believe if you cannot grow it, hunt it or fish it at that particular time of the year, it should not be on the menu.” 74
“On New Year’s Eve we are going all out with a 1920’s Gatsby black tie dinner. I have based the menu entirely around dishes from that era and I am really looking forward to taking our guests back to the 20’s.”
On New Year’s Eve we are going all out with a 1920’s Gatsby black tie dinner. I have based the menu entirely around dishes from that era and I am really looking forward to taking our guests back to the 20’s. What will be special about Christmas time at Holm House? Quite simply it has to be the produce we are using - it will all be local, fresh and seasonal and of course the venue itself is spot on – it is the perfect place to be at Christmas and it looks great with all the decorations up and the log fires burning; it really is home from home. What will the price points be? From the 1st to the 24th December 2015, the set three course lunch/party menu will be £25 per person and we will be running our a la carte menu in the evenings.
On Christmas Day the cost will be £80 per person. Children aged 5-12 £15 will be per child and those aged 12-16 will be £35 per child. New Year’s Eve £80 per person. Will you be offering any packages for guests who would like to stay over? We are offering stays of either two or three days for Christmas and New Year. The Christmas stays start on Christmas Eve until Boxing Day or 27th December and our New Year stays start on New Year’s Eve until New Year’s Day or 2nd January 2016. Prices start from £585 for two nights (based on two people sharing) and £795 for three nights (based on two people sharing). What interest have you had so far? We have been amazed at the interest for bookings so far, given that it’s only August (time of interview). 75
Given the interest, we anticipate a full house so I would urge anyone who is interested in joining us, in whatever capacity, to book early. All of the staff are really looking forward to bringing the best service, atmosphere and food to our guests over the festive period.
Holm House Hotel Marine Parade, Penarth CF64 3BG 02920 706 029 reception@holmhousehotel.co.uk www.holmhousehotel.com
For whatever reason you want to look your best (wedding, birthday, holiday, Christmas, or a youthful freshen up so you look great ‘for your age’) it’s actually more achievable, and cost effective, than you’d think. We chat with Sandeep Rupra of Rupra Cosmetic Smiles & Facial Aesthetics…
SMILES BETTER Tell us a little about your background Sandeep. I graduated as a dentist in 2007 and initially practised as a Senior House Officer in Oral Surgery, Restorative Dentistry and Dental Public Health in the Dental Hospital at University Hospital Wales and Prince Charles Hospital in Merthyr. Through my time at the hospitals, and previous vocational training, I discovered my passion for facial aesthetics. I joined Hickman House in 2010 where I practice dentistry and where, earlier this year, I launched Rupra Cosmetic Smiles & Facial Aesthetics.
And what services do you provide for your patients? All aspects of facial rejuvenation including anti-wrinkle and anti-ageing treatments, dermal fillers, smile makeovers using the Quick Straight Teeth system, and dental implants using the Nobel Biocare system.
QST has been developed to work specifically on the front six or eight teeth in order to correct minor to moderate issues. Treatment prices can be more affordable than for similar types of braces, and straightening times range from 4 - 24 weeks depending on the problems to be corrected.
We like the sound of Quick Straight Teeth. Can you tell us some more about that please? More people of all ages are now benefitting from treatment to enhance the appearance of their teeth. Quick Straight Teeth (QST) is a discreet braces system made from transparent materials.
What advice can you give our readers who would like to undergo facial aesthetic treatments? I would definitely advise that they do their research and choose a qualified, regulated practitioner. In the UK facial treatments can be carried out by ‘consultants’ who have few, or no, medical qualifications.
“ I provide anti-wrinkle and anti-ageing treatments, dermal fillers, smile makeovers using the Quick Straight Teeth system, and dental implants.” 76
I’m accredited by Oris Medical in my Botox and filler training; Oris guarantees that all treatments are administered by fully qualified,
registered aesthetic doctors, and I’m also regulated by the General Dental Council and a registered provider of the Quicker Straighter Teeth system. Also, readers should visit the clinic to ensure their treatments are administered in a clean and suitable environment.
And what are your plans for the future of the practice? To carry on developing our facial aesthetic initiatives here at Hickman House and to continue with my personal professional development.
Rupra Cosmetic Smiles & Facial Aesthetics Hickman House, 25 Hickman Rd, Penarth, Vale of Glamorgan CF64 2AJ 029 2070 8317 rupra.cosmetic.smiles@gmail.com Like on Facebook
heart of our home Our Leekes
kitchen
When Matt and Alethea Mizen embarked upon their new kitchen from Leekes, it represented the final element of a lengthy home improvement project and the couple were keen to establish their new room as the social hub of the home – a practical, versatile and stylish area where they could spend time with family and friends. “After several years of house renovation the kitchen was the final part to complete" recalls Alethea, “and it’s lovely to be able to come home, relax and enjoy the heart of our home.” The project entailed working alongside Leekes’ expert designers to create a kitchen that would provide just the right mix of style and practicality – including specific lifestyle features that met the couple’s requirements. With an island at the top of their priority list, the couple decided on a classic monochrome colour scheme for their cabinets and worktops. The sleek and stylish Sheraton Mattonella white gloss
is at the
cabinets complements the two colour quartz worktops – a classic combination that will stand the test of time. Another key factor in the design process was incorporating the latest in product innovation. After considering the daily tasks to be completed, such as cooking, cleaning and washing, integrated appliances such as the fridge, freezer, dishwasher and microwave oven were selected for a space-saving and seamless finish. Then, to add the gadget factor the couple chose the Neff automatic Bean to Cup coffee machine, with Matt enthusing, “I love all the gadgets and am particularly thrilled with the integrated coffee machine.” Combining functional with softer ambient illumination created the right lighting for an alluring living space – and with the open plan kitchen now the primary entertaining area as well as a practical space within the home, it was important
Leekes Llantrisant, Cowbridge Road, RCT. CF72 8XU Tel: 0333 222 4120 | Online: kitchens.leekes.co.uk
to the couple to select practical yet stylish options. “I love the window seat that was designed for me as I can sit back and watch the boys playing outside – and it makes such a good serving hatch in the summer!” comments Alethea. Crafted with quality, innovation and style, a kitchen designed by Leekes can be truly unique. With our extensive choice of cabinet styles and finishes, versatile storage solutions, durable worktops and the latest sinks, taps, appliances and accessories; the essential ingredients for your perfect kitchen are all available – under one roof. Arrange a free design appointment with our knowledgeable designers and discover the range of possibilities.
DINAS POWYS, SWANSEA & ST BRIDES MAJOR
Waterstone Homes showcase new collections Vale Life talks to Leighton Morgans, Waterstone Homes MD, about their new luxury family homes in Dinas Powys, St Brides Major and Derwen Fawr, Swansea.
Why Dinas Powys, St Brides Major and Derwen Fawr, Swansea? We choose our sites very carefully. It’s all about location, location, location.
Our clients want to live in select, desirable areas, and all three communities tick this box and have sought after postcodes. It’s our second collection that we’ve brought to Dinas Powys and our first to St Brides Major and Swansea. Our first collection in Dinas Powys was St Andrew’s Grange, now cited as one of the most exclusive streets in Wales. I’m very proud of that collection, because it is a perfect example of what we do well - we build a small number of large family homes that fit into the local community perfectly.
Chapters, Dinas Powys 2015
As a South-Wales based family owned company (Waterstone Homes is part of the Jehu Group) we pride ourselves in keeping good quality house building traditions and techniques alive, but with ultra-modern, green, and environmental technology. Our St Brides Major collection is a perfect example of this the exteriors are of a traditional cottage style, however at the rear you’ll find glass orangeries and bi-fold doors. We mix old and new styles seamlessly.
Where do you start with the house style and design? We research the locality carefully, we aim to make a modern home that complements the community - you’ll find no concrete carbuncles in a Waterstone Homes collection.
To register interest or make an appointment contact Andrea Gardener, Sales Manager 01656 644440 sales@waterstonehomes.com www.waterstonehomes.com
Quality Carpets Direct
Low Cost Quality Carpets
Also , Did you know that we ?
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e now supply the wonderful Crucial Trading floorcoverings with their
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Can take away your old carpet. Move & replace your furniture. Guarantee all our fitting. Can make bespoke Rugs & Runners. Have been supplying & fitting carpets for over 20 years across S.Wales
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can be made into bound stair runners unique to
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quality carpets direct 47 Windsor Rd, Penarth, CF64 1JE 02920 702262 27 Wellfield Rd, Roath Park, Cardiff, CF24 3NZ 02920 191465 www.qualitycarpetsdirect.com
@quality_carpets Quality Carpets Direct
Open: Mon - Sat 10.00-17.00 Penarth View 79
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Lifestyle
What’s new for 2015? 2015 is a particularly exciting year for Waterstone Homes, as we are working on four bold new collections: Dinas Powys, St Brides Major, Ogmore-bySea and Derwen Fawr, Swansea. We have recently completed collections of luxury homes in Cardiff’s Pontcanna and Radyr, and also Saundersfoot, Pembrokeshire. These are not your usual run-of-the-mill housing developments, they are bespoke collections of exclusive luxury family homes in choice areas with as few as fifteen homes (on average) per location. St Brides Major’s collection is quite exclusive as it only has six homes.
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C U R TA I N S & B L I N D S MADE TO MEASURE
J Taylor Soft Furnishings After nearly twenty years of making soft furnishings, Janice Page has moved her workroom to The Stonehouse, Ogmore By Sea. New furniture and interior accessories alongside unique re-upholstered furniture are all available here with a selection of upholstered furniture in her area at the local vintage home store. Janice is happy to share her experience by providing a free consultation. Her fabric library is available for customers to look through at their leisure in The Stonehouse and in addition she can provide tracks / poles, trimmings and offers a fitting service.
The Stonehouse, Tymaen Farm Buildings, Ogmore Road, Ogmore By Sea CF32 0QP
“ Happy Days oozes vintage charm.” COWBRIDGE’S BEST KEPT SECRET!
Happy Days Vintage Homestore & Artisan Market The best shops are often the ones that are hidden away, tucked between larger buildings or hidden out of sight completely. Discovering these shops brings a thrill unlike anything else, a feeling that stays with you every time you visit. This Aladdin’s Cave, one of the biggest stores in town, oozes vintage charm and is full to the brim of restored vintage furniture, antiques and gardenware.
vintage cameras, vinyl records, ladies fashion, Harris tweed jackets, waistcoats and flat caps. We are the Vale’s mustvisit destination if you are looking for a beautiful welsh dresser, chesterfield chair or one-off unique gift.”
Catherine says, “The store is home to 30 local small businesses, including our talented upholsterer, local artists, hand sewn items and jewellery makers. In addition, we stock collectable toys,
Church Street, Cowbridge CF71 7BB (Behind The Duke of Wellington Pub) 01446 771191 www.happydaysvintagehomestore.co.uk Find on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest 83
07790 010866 jan@janicetaylor.co.uk
Bespoke kitchen design and installation
New showroom now open 029 2049 6166 Unit 7, Anchor Industrial Estate, Dumballs Road, Cardiff CF10 5FF info@avantgardedesign.co.uk | www.avantgardedesign.co.uk
When choosing any company to carry out work at your home, it pays to do your research. Mr. Lee Jones of Broadlands, Bridgend did just that and finally chose to work with Alexander James Bi-fold. We visited Mr. Jones at his home to find out more.
ROOM WITH A VIEW
How many companies did you research before choosing Alexander James? Firstly a friend recommended Alexander James to us, and then I did more research on another fifteen companies online and via the telephone. I like to be thorough! What made you choose Alexander James? I particularly liked the telephone manner of the salesperson. He also gave good advice and was not pushing at all to get the sale. He was genuinely friendly. I also visited the showroom to see the manufacturing process and to see what they had to offer. I was impressed so I then arranged for them to come out and take the measurements. They were also very competitively priced.
“We also went for the tinted glazing as we wanted to keep the strong sun out of the room and integral blinds which I saw on Grand Designs.”
Did you know what you wanted from the design? We had an extension on the house to turn it from a four bedroom house to a six bedroom one. We added the two bedrooms as well as an additional living room. We wanted bifold doors to take advantage of the garden, to bring in more light and to be able to see the children playing. We also went for the tinted glazing as we wanted to keep the strong sun out of the room and integral blinds which I saw on the Grand Designs programme!
Would you be happy to recommend Alexander James to friends and colleagues? Absolutely. How I measure good service is by how a company resolve faults. There were a few little niggles but that’s to be expected in any job. As soon as we mentioned these, they came around very promptly and effortlessly resolved them.
What were the workmen like? They were incredibly helpful, prompt and tidy. How long did the fit take? It took just a few hours to install. As it was a new build, it was a straightforward fit. What difference have the bifolds made to you and your home? A huge difference. We’ve brought the outside in and extended the usable space. We now have a grown-up living room which myself and my wife can spend time in while the children play in their room. 86
Alexander James Unit 3A Ashmount Business Park, Upper Forest Way, Swansea SA6 8QR 01792 794 549 www.alexanderjamesbifold.co.uk
A LEXANDER JAMES BIFOLD BIFOLD DOORS & WINDOWS
Alexander James the BiFold experts Alexander James is part of the w Group and is a Welsh design and manufacturing company with its head office in Swansea, Wales’ second city (although many in Swansea think it’s the first!). Alexander James specialises in the design, manufacture and installation of bifold doors and windows. They have been doing it for a long time so they know their stuff. “Whether it’s a set or doors for your home or perhaps you’re in business and need a set there, Alexander James has the talent, technology and professionalism to ensure your project is delivered on budget and on time,”Says Andy Farmer, Sales Director. If you have a project you’d like a quote on, please get in touch on 01792 794549. 87
Mr and Mrs Floyd have been living in their beautiful cottage in Llanharan for twenty years and wanted to radically change the style of their farmhouse kitchen. They are not afraid to say that they are a bit particular when it comes to design and workmanship and wanted someone who would value the same attention to detail. When they met Steve McCormick of SMC Kitchens, they immediately knew that they were singing off the same hymn sheet.
SMC K ITCHENS
How did you hear about SMC Kitchens? SHARON My mum saw an advert in a local magazine so we gave SMC a call. Immediately we liked the sound of Steve. He was quiet, unassuming, nonpushy and completely professional. We invited him to come around. Did you call and meet with any other kitchen companies? JASON Yes. We called five or six over a four month period and four companies came to the house, but it wasn’t until we met with Steve that we felt completely confident in him and what he could offer. Did you know what style of kitchen you were looking for? SHARON As we live in a country style home, our kitchen was in this style. We had wooden cupboards and an 8ft farmhouse style table.
As we had been redecorating the whole of the house, we wanted something completely different. We also had an allglass conservatory extension adjoining the kitchen to let in more light so we wanted the kitchen to be light, modern and functional. What did you like about Steve? JASON He admitted straight away that he didn’t think he had anything to offer us because our house was quite traditional but, when we got talking about what we wanted, he immediately said that he knew exactly what he could offer. He came up with lots of ideas and we were on the same wavelength. He was very precise when measuring and his persona was very professional. Did you visit the showroom? SHARON Yes. We were very impressed. I was very taken with a lot of the kitchens on show, they had amazing classic and 88
contemporary styles but I had to keep my resolve and stick to the design we discussed as Steve said that the one we had chosen would be perfect for our needs. He was absolutely right. Who is the cook of the house? SHARON Jason is an avid cook and our daughter likes to help out. I prefer the eating part! A new kitchen can be time consuming and disrupting. How did you find the process? SHARON With it being an old house, there are always challenges with lighting and running water but Steve came up with simple solutions to these issues. He also kept our beams, which we love, and made sure that everything was put back in its place, as good as new. The tradesmen he used were superb - they came when they said they would, with minimum disruption to us.
They were completely trustworthy and immaculate. We left the house in the morning and when we came home, the house was spotless. What do you love about your kitchen space now? JASON As I do most of the cooking, I love the fact that we have more cupboard space. I love the clean lines of the units; their handle-less and have a matt finish, so leave no fingerprints. We have eye level twin ovens which are much easier to use and show the food while it’s cooking. We now have a smaller, white table in the same style for us to sit around at mealtimes, which is a perfect size for us. Steve managed to integrate the living space, kitchen and conservatory perfectly. It’s seamless.
Would you be happy to recommend Steve and SMC Kitchens? In unison: Absolutely. We have already recommended Steve to friends and they’ve had their kitchens done by SMC. We can’t praise Steve highly enough. If you’re paying a lot for something, then it should be perfect. I’d go so far to say that we were happy handing over the money for the job!
“He came up with lots of ideas and we were on the same wavelength. He was very precise when measuring and his persona was very professional.” SMC Kitchens Ltd Unit 5b, Hepworth Business Park Coedcae Lane, Pontyclun CF72 9DX 01443 449 759 / 07973 788 375 stevemccormick0@btconnect.com www.smckitchens.co.uk Facebook SMCKitchensPontyclun Twitter @SMCKitchens
“The tradesmen he used were superb.” 89
JACK & ROSE
est 1934
ROOSEVELT
BESPOKE SOFAS & CHAIRS We offer bespoke sofas and chairs in any size and design with fabrics to suit you and your lifestyle.
RE-UPHOLSTERY SPECIALISTS Breathe life back into a treasured piece of furniture so that you can love it all over again.
Banthorpe House, Crosby Yard, Bridgend CF31 1JZ Open Monday to Saturday 9am – 5pm evoke your inner style
MADELINE-ANNE LOVINGLY CREATED BESPOKE SOFAS & CHAIRS
MADE-TO-MEASURE CURTAINS & PELMETS Whether it’s elegant, dramatic or fun, we have hundreds of quality curtain and upholstery fabrics.
evoke your inner style BEAUTIFUL HAND-MADE BEDS Let Jack & Rose design and create the stunning bespoke bed of your dreams.
01656 768844 info@jackandrose.co.uk www.jackandrose.co.uk
This independent Bridgend based, family run business, has been manufacturing sofas for over thirty years. The most recent examples can be viewed at their spacious two storey showroom that houses all 200 plus sofas in addition to a wide range of beds as well as oak and pine furniture.
DESIGNER SOFAS DIRECT
When Designer Sofas Direct first opened their factory doors to the public they decided that they must provide three essential things to every single one of their customers. Firstly, the chance to choose quality hand-crafted furniture with the option to ‘mix and match’ between a vast range of styles, colours and fittings. general Manager, Boyd Jones, says, “We believe we offer a choice rarely found at other furniture outlets. We want to give the customer as much flexibility as possible when choosing designs.” Secondly, the chance to make significant savings on the normal retail price because customers are buying directly from Designer Sofas Direct, effectively cutting out the middlemen.
“We offer a choice rarely found at other furniture outlets.”
And, finally, their own bespoke range of furniture made under the Brynwood Designs banner, where you can have your furniture made to measure with a choice of over 1,000 fabrics and leather covers to choose from. Showroom team, Andrew and Lynne Thomas say, “Now you really can have furniture that fits your room perfectly all manufactured right here in Wales.” Add to this their personal attention and super friendly service and you can see why Designer Sofas Direct has become a name synonymous with quality, professionalism and after-sales peace of mind. Visit the showroom when looking to design your perfect suite. Showroom team Andrew and Lynne Thomas and General Manager Mr Boyd Jones are always on hand to help and will go above and beyond in order to help you create the perfect sofa for you. 92
Designer Sofas Direct Unit 21 Millers Avenue Brynmenyn Industrial Estate Bridgend CF32 9TD 01656 725525 www.designer-sofas.co.uk Like on Facebook Open seven days a week Mon to Sat 10am-5pm Sun 10am-4pm Only a few minutes from McArthurGlen
Make an entrance with custom made joinery from Nottage. Individually styled to your requirements from the highest quality timbers with a wide range of durable finishes and fittings.
Joinery Excellence since 1964
T: 01656 745959 www.nottagejoinery.co.uk Village Farm Industrial Estate, Pyle, Bridgend. CF33 6BJ
Only product marked as such are FSC速 certified
CARDIFF
Avantgarde Designs Ltd moves home Contemporary kitchen design company Avantgarde has expanded into new premises on Dumballs Road in Cardiff. Avantgarde Designs Ltd is a family run business with more than 25 years experience in kitchen design and installation based in South Wales. Partner Elizabeth Cohen said, “This is an exciting time for Avantgarde. The expansion into the larger premises means we can satisfy the increasing demand for our designs. Avantgarde has had an exceptional 18 months and we feel we are doing some of the best work we have ever done and this is reflected in our many testimonials.”
“We specialise and display the leading German RWK Kuhlmann range, complimented by Stoneham handmade bespoke kitchens. Stoneham are the only British kitchen manufacturers to have earned the Royal Warrant. We also supply Symphony kitchens, and are agents for Neff, AEG, Smeg, Baumatic appliances, Blanco, Caple sink & taps.” Avantgarde Designs Ltd 029 2049 6166 Unit 7 Anchor Industrial Estate just off Dumballs Road CF10 5FF info@avantgardedesign.co.uk www.avantgardedesign.co.uk
C H R I S T I A N R YA N P R E S E N T S . . .
The Stained Glass Workshop The techniques used in Christian’s work remain virtually unchanged compared to the masterpieces of the last few centuries. With the combination of contemporary design and traditional techniques Christian creates original stained glass that can be commissioned to create a unique feature for your home. You can visit the workshop to see work on display and pieces available to buy. If you fancy a go yourself you can book a taster day or weekend course with Christian and make your own panel to take home.
Pottery Hill, Ewenny, Bridgend CF35 5AP 01656 856155 www.christianryan.com Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter
SUPERIOR WORKMANSHIP
Paul Rogers Flooring With three decades of experience and showrooms in Bridgend and the Vale, Paul Rogers Flooring definitely know how to walk the walk. When it comes to flooring they know that quality work is vital, which is why the highly proficient team will go above and beyond to ensure a flawless finish. Paul Rogers Flooring supplies and fits quality carpet, hardwood, vinyl, laminate, safety and LVT flooring including all Karndean and Amtico ranges. A supply only service is also available. Unit 4 Kingswood Court, Ogmore Road Ewenny CF35 5BP 01656 654056 Tremains Road, Bridgend CF31 1T2 01656 664142
www.paulrogersflooringbridgend.co.uk Like on Facebook 95
Family-run Griffiths Flooring, nominated in ‘The Best of Bridgend’ Business Awards for outstanding customer service, is expanding. Vale Life chats with business owner and founder Darren Griffiths.
RED CARPET TREATMENT Darren launched Griffiths Flooring in July 2014. Initially the business was mobile and he worked from his home and then, in April 2015, he was able to open his first shop in Pontycymer and, with customers continued support and recommendations to their family and friends, his business continues to grow month by month.
Recommendation is a powerful business strategy - why do you think your customers are so keen to endorse your business? Absolutely. Our whole team prides itself on not being beaten on price or service. We also offer an ‘in home service’ where we visit customers with samples, measure up, and supply a free no obligation quotation. We have a friendly sales team that will happily help with any queries you may have - from the initial enquiry right up to following completion; our after sales care is all important. To sum up; we, as a company, go that extra mile for our customers.
So, whether you want to keep your garden green all year round with artificial grass or brighten up a room in your home with a new carpet or laminate (they even supply ‘no spill’ carpets, so no need to worry about the kids - or even wine spills) there’s lots to choose from here.
What types of flooring do you supply? We supply and fit everything from carpets, vinyls, laminate, wood and artificial grass with a wide range of products from which to choose.
Can’t recommend Griffiths flooring enough! No comparison - the quote was a lot better than all the others and the quality and finish has left us over the moon! Definitely recommending to family and friends. Richie P
What plans do you have for the future? We’re continuing to grow by opening a second shop and employing more staff. And we’re aiming to become Local Business of the Year. 96
TESTIMONIALS
What customers say about Griffiths flooring Fantastic service! Fantastic value! I’d highly recommend Griffiths Flooring. Thank you. Chris B
“ Our whole team prides itself on not being beaten on price or service.”
Griffiths Flooring The Square, Pontycymer CF32 8LL 07557 684576 darren@griffiths-flooring.co.uk www.griffiths-flooring.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter 97
Teulu Bespoke Furniture is an expansion of established family-run building company A-One Construction. Comprising three generations of master craftsmen, they specialise in the design and production of hardwood furniture and kitchens of the very highest quality, and all produced in-house.
TEULU “ Teulu is a Welsh word meaning family.’ Fiona, what family members are involved in the businesses? Well, there’s my father-in-law John Evans, and my husband Shaun Evans who are the two partners in the business; myself, and our sons Sam and Ryan. John and Shaun are both exceptional joiners and carpenters. Sam undertook a carpentry apprenticeship with A-One and he now works mainly in the workshop for Teulu on the bespoke furniture. Ryan is in college doing engineering, but works for us on the odd day during the week either on site or in the workshop.
How have you grown your business to where it is today? We’ve always provided joinery services as part of the building works and projects. When we took on the larger premises in Brynmenyn three years ago it has just evolved and expanded to the point that 12 months ago we decided to set up a new company - Teulu Bespoke Furniture Ltd (September 2014), making hand-made, hand-painted, hard wood kitchens and furniture. Within the last few months we’ve taken on another young carpenter, Greg, to help out on site but primarily to support Sam in the workshop with the Teulu orders.
“ There is a massive amount of research, and we never stop discovering new ideas, which is great as we have such a passion for our products.” 98
Where do you get your creative spark? How does the design process begin? There is a massive amount of research, and we never stop discovering new ideas, which is great as we have such a passion for our products. Unlike a build where you are relying on an architect’s vision to design the building or extension, with our kitchens it really comes down to teamwork. For kitchens we start with the initial survey and CAD drawing of the proposed solution. This then evolves through discussions with the client to establish exactly what type of look and detail they want. Because everything is bespoke (literally made to measure), every detail is tailored to each individual. Essentially, if it can be made out of wood, we can make it. Plus, because the products are made with only the very best of materials,
you’re investing in a piece of furniture that should, with care, last a lifetime. With everything created in-house our clients are more than welcome to come and see their products being crafted. Have you been asked to make any unusual pieces? We built an extension in Llysworney and the owners asked if we could make a bespoke desk and bookcase for a proposed office/library. The bookcase was floor to ceiling, incorporating the doorway into the room. Because the room was on the first floor the bookcase was shaped to match the apex of the vaulted ceiling line and ran the full length of the room - lots of templating and totally bespoke. We have also recently made a kidney shaped Oak desk to a customer’s brief.
How do you manage your work/life balance? That’s sometimes a challenge as our work can be 24/7. We’re currently in the process of setting up our new showroom upstairs in our unit in Brynmenyn. This is taking some time as everything has to be hand-made. We’re aiming to have the showroom open in January 2016. We’re learning to master the new CAD system we’ve purchased which enables us to draw up room plans and produce photo realistic images of proposed kitchens and furniture. At times it doesn’t feel like there are enough hours in the day but we participate in and watch a variety of sports to have some chill out time and walking our two nutty Spaniels, Maddy and Sal, keeps us surprisingly sane. 99
Teulu Bespoke Furniture Ltd 47A Millers Avenue Brynmenyn Industrial Estate Bridgend CF32 9TD 01656 722622 aonebridgend@btconnect.com www.teulufurniture.co.uk Like on Facebook
In City Life summer, we got to know the man behind the successful Giovanni’s restaurant brand which currently boasts two city centre restaurants on The Hayes and Park Place, as well as a cookery school and training room. His first restaurant opened in 1983 and proudly claims to be the longest established independent Italian in the city. Over the years Giovanni has built successful businesses and has become renowned as one of the most charismatic entrepreneurs in the city.
FAMILY MAN You are known for being a proud family man, please tell us more... I’ve got two families, one in the traditional sense, and the other being my staff who I class as family. I must give credit to my parents - who came to Cardiff when I was very young, with only two suitcases, the equivalent of £10 and two young children in tow. They came under a fixed contract, worked and believed they could create a better life and I acknowledge them for being brave. My dad was the first of the Malacrino family to go into catering as he took over a run-down fish and chip shop in Grangetown not long after we moved to Wales. My mum and Nan spotlessly cleaned it and, in addition to the traditional chicken curry half and half, added their authentic Spaghetti Bolognese to the menu. The hard graft was worth it as within months it was one of the busiest fish and chip shops in Cardiff.
They took the opportunity, worked hard and brought us up to be proud Welsh Italians. I am forever grateful. How important is it to you for Giovanni’s to remain an independent, family run business? On one hand I want to remain family run for all that it encapsulates which, for Giovanni’s, stands for looking after customers, entertaining customers and valuing customers. However, this is challenging as on the other hand I want to grow the business into a multi-national so that the Malacrino legacy lives on. My ambition is to grow the Giovanni’s Restaurant Group with members of my loyal team, so they rise through the ranks understanding Giovanni’s heritage. I think if they’re part of the journey, then we can grow whilst still retaining our independent ethos and integrity. 100
Do you think your children will follow in your footsteps, please tell us more about them? The business will be there should they want to enhance, promote or grow it, but they must live their dream not mine. The restaurants are there to support my children and their future but they have their own aspirations! My son, Gianluca, came into the family business and went on to create two well-known successful brands in Cardiff; Kapu and Ladybird Nightclub. He then chose to take what I’ve always done as a bit of fun, which is TV and film, to the next level and moved to LA to achieve his dreams of becoming a respected actor. He is about to graduate from a leading film school and has just finished filming his second short movie. Gianluca is extremely driven and focused and I’ll be behind him every step of the way.
“ My ambition is to grow the Giovanni’s Restaurant Group with members of my loyal team, so they rise through the ranks understanding Giovanni’s heritage.”
My daughter, Ileana, also seems to have the creative gene and wants to go into PR and media. Ileana has her mother’s organisation skills and her father’s flair and personality, so I’m confident she is going to achieve great things in the world of public relations and, hopefully, one day run her own company. Who will you be supporting during the Rugby World Cup? Wales always, my favourite saying is “My heart is Italian, but my wallet is Welsh”, I support the country that has supported me and my family. You have achieved so much, what are your future goals and ambitions? I really feel that after thirty years in business I’m just starting out again. I’m more confident, I’ve been through every scene and now I know the way forward, I’ve been through it and come out the other end. My dreams are simple - grow the Giovanni’s brand and launch my own sauce label - continue to build on my life coaching skills,
become an ‘Italian Welsh dragon, invest time and money in others and, most importantly, continue the good work of my charity foundation, GIO’S. My purpose in life is to learn and help teach others how to live, love, laugh and grow whilst creating an abundance of wealth that I am able to share with others, especially those less fortunate.
“ I support the country that has supported me and my family.”
Christmas bookings now being taken Giovanni’s On the Hayes (38) Cardiff CF10 1AJ 029 2022 0077 onthehayes@giovanniscardiff.co.uk www.giovanniscardiff.co.uk Giovanni’s in Park Place (8) Park Place, Cardiff CF10 3DP 029 2022 6299 inparkplace@giovanniscardiff.co.uk www.giovanniscardiff.co.uk/park-place Find us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, TripAdvisor, Google+ and Pinterest
We’re great cheese lovers, and when we heard that Tom Parker-Bowles had reviewed Justin Rees’ Welsh Cheese Recipes book as “a must read” we wanted to meet the acclaimed chef and find out more for ourselves. Justin is the Head Chef and owner at the The Fountain Inn and Just-Hoglicious catering, both based in Aberkenfig.
THE FOUNTAIN HOG AND GRILL
Justin, tell us a bit about yourself. I’m a local lad; born in Maesteg. After leaving school, I trained as a chef and worked in hotels and restaurants throughout south and mid Wales, I also worked abroad for a few years. As a chef, I’m inspired and enthused by traditional cooking methods as well as innovative ideas. How long have you been running the Fountain Pub? What led you here? I took over The Fountain in April this year. It’s been my lifetime ambition to have my own restaurant and to run it as a family business, which I do with my wife Karen Davies Rees - our daughter also works at The Fountain. What do you think makes The Fountain stand out from others? The variety of our menu - it changes daily and ranges from carvery (Wednesday and Sunday), to tapas and sharing seafood platters - there’s always something different! We also offer our very popular home delivery service on Sundays and on Christmas Eve.
We regularly stage themed events and, to date, these have included Spanish, New Zealand and, just recently, our very own Elvis tribute carvery. Throughout December we offer a Christmas dinner menu and we also cater for set menu Christmas parties, both at lunchtime and in the evenings.
What are your plans for the future? I’d love a marquee in the garden and also I want to turn the old coach house at the rear of the property into tea rooms. I’d like to turn the back into a Spanish style courtyard which will offer something different for private parties, weddings and birthdays.
Where do you source your ingredients? Is it important to that your food is sustainably sourced? Totally. We’re delighted to say that all of the products used here are sourced from local businesses and local farmers. All except the spices, which are my secret ingredients from my mum, Ann, who lives in Los Montesenos, Costa Blanca in Spain.
And we can’t leave without hearing about your book... Yes, I wrote a Welsh cheese recipe book eleven years ago - it’s published by y Lolfa as part of a series. It went down well. After all, who doesn’t love cheese. Great minds think alike!
Tell us a bit about Just Hoglicious. Just Hoglicious is my outside catering business, specialising in hog roasts, paella parties, corporate events, bespoke buffets, BBQs, Dial-a-Chef, weddings and garden parties and, I must say, it’s taken off tremendously over the past couple of years.
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The Fountain Hog & Grill Park Road, Aberkenfig Bridgend CF32 0EW 01656 856173 www.thefountaininnaberkenfig.co.uk www.just-hoglicious.co.uk Like both businesses on Facebook and follow on Twitter 103
WE’RE ALL MAD HERE!
Hatters Tea Room “It’s always time for tea!” at Hatters Tea Room, Bridgend. A wonderful place that claims to be like no other on earth. Add a little extra glamour to your day with a beautiful selection of afternoon teas, a mouth watering range of breakfasts and lunches, as well as some truly scrumptious cakes that just scream ‘Eat Me!’. With private bookings available for every type of function, including birthdays and un-birthdays alike, you’d be entirely bonkers to pass up on such an opportunity. 71 Nolton Street, Bridgend CF31 3EA 07518 052840 www.hatters-tearoom.co.uk Like on Facebook F R E S H T A S T Y F O O D , L O V E LY AT M O S P H E R E , G R E AT S E RV I C E
Il Panino Over the last four years that Heidi Herrera has owned this popular two storey café in the heart of Bridgend, she has built up a loyal fan base. Serving fresh, tasty food that’s cooked daily on the premises, it’s easy to see why. Pop in for wine and olives, bacon rolls, home-made soup (Morrocan chick pea is a favourite), tortillas, pasta dishes, baguettes, paninis, quiche, brie and cranberry tartlets with salad to name a few. Look out for the popular daily specials and meal deals. Heidi uses the best locally sourced ingredients in her dishes as she knows these offer the best flavour. The same goes for her coffee, sourced from Argies of Brynmemyn, which is rich and smooth and, according to customers, is the best coffee in town. Why not try a cup with a nice piece of cake? A licence means Heidi can offer a selection of wines and beers. With plenty of seating space outside, you could catch up with friends and watch the world go by. Il Panino offers customers a loyalty card (buy 10 hot drinks and get the 11th for free), and prides itself on being 5* hygiene rated. Il Panino 1 Market Street, Bridgend CF31 1LL 01656 766618
“ Heidi uses the best locally sourced ingredients in her dishes as she knows these offer the best flavour.” 104
COWBRIDGE
The Bear necessities If you have spent any time at The Bear Hotel at Christmas, then you will know what magical a time it is. The lights and decorations, the festive ambience and how the friendly and experienced staff look after every detail, ensures ‘The Bear’ is one of the first venues that customers think of when booking their Christmas parties. What’s on this December? What a line up they have in store for you this year! n Thursday 10th is your chance to boogie on down to the Disco Fever Night. Funky disco shirts are a must! £27.95pp n Tuesday 15th is the Rob Stewart Tribute. You’ll be sure to be joining in with the old favourites. £35pp n Wednesday 16th is the Carols & Canapes event with the excellent voices of the Vocelle Ladies Choir. £25pp n Enjoy lots of live vocals, patter, impressions and visual comedy with the Drag With No Name event on Thursday 17th, which will have you in stitches. £35pp n And sing along with Dolly Parton Tribute on Monday 21st. £35pp
n Friday and Saturdays will be your chance to strut your stuff at their Late Night Disco Parties with the hotel’s very own resident DJ. £35pp A delicious dinner and goodies are included with every event. Ladies choir includes canapes, a sparkling arrival drink and two course dinner. Please check the website for full details. All you need do now is call to book, then sit back and look forward to an evening full of merriment. The Bear Hotel Cowbridge 01446 774814 events@bearhotel.com www.bearhotel.com
COWBRIDGE
It’s Oscars time again! Anytime at Oscars of Cowbridge is special. During December is when the festive menu makes its appearance. Whether you’re a couple wanting an intimate table for two, a family gathering or a large group or corporate party, the friendly staff will be on hand to ensure that a great time is had by all. Oscars has a contemporary and stylish ambience. Inside you can enjoy brunch, lunch or dinner. The team are not afraid to experiment and offer a superb international menu. From the sea to the soil, their dishes are lovingly created, prepared and cooked by a superb team of passionate and skilled chefs. Oscars is family friendly, offering a dedicated children’s menu for the under 12s, available from noon to 7pm. Oscars of Cowbridge High Street, Cowbridge CF71 7AF 01446 771984 www.oscarsofcowbridge.com Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter
“ Oscars has a contemporary and stylish ambience.” 105
Have you heard about the exciting new dance craze that’s just hit our shores called Sosa? This fun-packed international dance fitness class is now being offered at FITM8 in Barry, and is believed to be the only class available in Wales. To find out more, we talked to FITM8 owner, Carlmichael.
DANCE YOURSELF
HAPPY AT FITM8
What is SOSA Dance Fitness? Staying true to international dance style techniques and complemented with effective routines that combine exercises with authentic steps and movements, this fun and easy to follow training workout includes body isolations, arm, hand and head styling movements that create a complete workout to tone and shape the whole body - a fantastic way to keep fit and have fun at the same time!
Can anyone do SOSA? Unlike many other dance fitness programmes in the market, we are committed to promoting the fantastic benefits to fitness and wellbeing of low impact exercise for everybody regardless of their fitness level; from beginners to those who keep fit regularly. In fact, the more exercise you do, the more you need low impact activities to be part of your workout plan.
SOSA Dance Fitness® is completely unique, with elements of Latin, Ballroom, Salsa and numerous other international dance styles being brought together to create one fantastic fusion of dance fitness.
There is a common misconception that ‘low impact’ means easy or boring, but not only does low impact fitness offer a great way to exercise but it also delivers an intense workout too. The old saying ‘no pain, no gain’ really could not be further from the truth!
SOSA Dance Fitness® is a ladies only workout, which creates a safe, friendly, non-intimidating environment that’s inclusive of all cultures and faiths.
SOSA Dance Fitness® is for people of all ages and fitness levels. You will start to notice the benefits within 6-8 sessions and that’s a promise! 106
How long is each session? Each 45 minute SOSA Dance Fitness® class is vibrant, unique and varied, with new music and choreography every month so you are always learning something new. The class will start by taking you through a dance based warm up, where you get everything from your head, shoulders, chest, hips and even your fingertips moving. This is followed by 35 minutes of low impact high energy dance fitness combining various international dance styles. You have plenty of opportunity to perfect the steps, toning every part of your body which means you get a really great workout. We finish with a cool down routine to return your heart rate to normal and stretch your muscles.
DIETM8 QUESTIONNAIRE Here at FITM8 we pride ourselves on being innovative, and trying new ideas, DIETM8 has been a project we have worked on for sometime. We’re hugely excited to be launching our new service in partnership with the highly respected, registered clinical dietitian, Angharad Banner. I am a Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Consultant with over ten years specialist paediatric experience within the NHS and private sector. My portfolio of professional and personal skills is focused on improving childhood nutrition for individuals and the wider community.
I would like to begin by finding out more about you as this is the best way to discover how FITM8 & DIETM8 can help you achieve your goals.
Please circle either Yes or No below:
Would you complete a food diary for 5 days? Yes / No
Do you think about your diet? Yes / No Are you concerned you are not eating what you should? Yes / No Would you like to know how best to fuel your body for health? Yes / No Would you like to know how best to fuel your body for fitness? Yes / No Do you have children? Yes / No Are you concerned your children eat too much fat? Yes / No Sounds like it will burn quite a lot of calories... We are committed to helping you achieve and, most importantly, maintain your fitness goals. There are no empty promises about how many calories you will burn. It’s up to you to add in as much sass and style as you want. The harder you work, the more you will burn. What should I wear? Please wear loose, comfortable clothing for maximum movement, shoes that allow for plenty of twisting and turning and a bottle of drink for rehydration throughout the class. Dance Yourself Happy!
“ You will start to notice the benefits within 6-8 sessions and that’s a promise!”
Would you like meal plans for the week to meet your nutritional goals? Yes / No Would you like to be able to pick up the ingredients for your personal meal plan from your DIETM8 personal training suite after training for the week? Yes / No Simply cut out or scan this voucher to claim your free session. Terms & conditions apply. Visit www.Fitm8.eu for full terms or call 0800 0807 497 to book today!
Are you concerned your children eat too much sugar? Yes / No Would you like help with your children’s diet? Yes / No Would you be interested in a one to one appointment with your DIETM8 dietitian? Yes / No Would you be interested in a group session with our DIETM8 dietitian? (Max 10 in a group) Yes / No Would you be interested in an indepth nutritional review of your diet with recommendations to meet current nutritional guidelines? Yes / No 107
FitM8 Personal Health & Fitness Suite 10 Park Crescent, West End Barry CF62 6HD carlmichael@fitm8.eu www.fitm8.eu Free call 0800 0807 497 or from mobiles Free call 03303 300 231 Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter Sessions available from 6am to 10pm 7 days a week by appointment
When we launched Vale Life back in the summer of 2007, we didn’t dare to dream that several years later our small but perfectly formed little publishing business would be employing sales-people, writers and designers across south Wales. Our latest project is Wye Life magazine...
GET MORE OUT T H E VA L E O F G L A M O RG A N
Vale Life magazine The Vogue of The Vale
Vale Life is distributed right across Wales’ most southerly county including Barry, Cowbridge, Penarth, Porthcawl, Talbot Green, Pontyclun, Llantrisant and many of the Vale’s smaller villages. Vale Life has a new responsive website www.valelifemag.co.uk
“ We’re a Welsh family-run publisher. At least 95% of our revenue is reinvested in the Welsh economy and we’re passionate about the shop-local ethos.”
Vale Life reaches my target audience. I rarely advertise in any other publication these days. Russell Scott-Lawson Owner, Hawkes
VA L E L I F E S TAT I S T I C S E S T I M AT E D R E A D E R S H I P
Over 35,000 FACEBOOK LIKES www.facebook.com/valelife
4,470 T WITTER FOLLOWERS @ValeLife #ValeLife
11,200 W E B S I T E S TAT I S T I C S Unique visitors
10,690 Unique page views
13,952 108
VA L E O F U S K & W Y E VA L L E Y
W Y E L I F E S TAT I S T I C S
Wye Life magazine Our latest creation
E S T I M AT E D R E A D E R S H I P
Wye Life magazine is our new baby. The launch issue and event at Lemore Manor was a great success and we’re delighted to be following that up with an even better second edition. Wye Life magazine will cover Chepstow, Newport, Monmouth, Ledbury, Ross-onWye, Tintern, Abergavenny, Caerleon, Usk, Hereford, Hay-on-Wye and surrounding areas. To advertise please contact Chris Howell. chris@goodlifepublishing.co.uk
Over 35,000 FACEBOOK LIKES www.facebook.com/wyelife
2,430 T WITTER FOLLOWERS @WyeLife
3,470 To advertise please call Chris on 07837 940639
OF LIFE CARDIFF
City Life magazine Reflecting Cardiff life City Life is the City Of Cardiff’s premier lifestyle magazine.
City Life is distributed right across Wales’ capital city covering Rhiwbina, Whitchurch, Canton, Roath, Llandaff, Radyr, Llanishen, Cyncoed, Pentwyn, Llanederyn, Fairwater, St Mellons, Grangetown, and Cardiff Bay.
After considering various local magazines to market the business in I decided to place an ad in both Vale and City Life to promote our wares, the only thing I can say is ‘WOW’. The response I’ve had from both publications has been staggering, literally staggering and now both publications are a permanent marketing expense within our strategy. If you haven’t tried it, you must! Chris Macnamara MD The Brogue Trader
“ Good Life Publishing provides businesses with an integrated marketing facility that seamlessly combines social media and tried and trusted print advertising.” C I T Y L I F E S TAT I S T I C S E S T I M AT E D R E A D E R S H I P
Over 35,000 FACEBOOK LIKES www.facebook.com/citylifecardiff
5,520 T WITTER FOLLOWERS @CityLifeCardiff #CityLifeCardiff
15,700 W E B S I T E S TAT I S T I C S Unique visitors
25,360 Unique page views
44,217 109
Imagine a Christmas where all of your shopping can be done under one roof. No fighting through the crowds, no parking fees, no lugging packages through the streets. Have I just described utopia? Yes I believe I have - savvy Christmas shoppers in Penarth have another name for it, Hamptons.
CHRISTMAS A LL WRAPPED UP
For existing Hamptons lovers, you’ll know that it’s a pretty magical place, with a bountiful array of gifts covering two floors and, at Christmas, it elevates to a new level of loveliness. If you weren’t feeling particularly festive, then once you step through the door, the festive aromas coming from the many lit candles, the Christmas songs playing, the decorations and the glittering displays will certainly exorcise that cynical old you and turn you into a carol singing, gift buying goddess. Hamptons is renowned for its spectacular Christmas offering and, knowing the serious effort that owners Andy and Peter put into creating them each year, then this season’s guaranteed to be equally spectacular, if not more so.
So what can you expect from this popular Penarth shrine to all things gorgeous at Christmas time? It all starts with the decorations... Forget plastic, decorate your tree with hand blown glass baubles and delicate figures, and your home with a variety of wreaths and swags, scented candles and candle holders. Make your home a truly Christmas home with Hamptons’ winter collections of gorgeous knitted throws and sumptuous cushions in rich winter colours - perfect for bringing a seasonal look to any room. If snuggling up on the sofa watching a Christmas movie is your thing (it’s certainly ours!), then there are cosy, warm blankets perfect for this. It doesn’t end there, as there are throws and cushions to decorate both a bed and sofa - the perfect finishing touches.
Now that we have our homes and trees sorted, we can think about those all-important Christmas presents for the ones we love - and what a superb selection there is. Whether you’re buying for family members, friends or work colleagues, Hamptons have these boxes well and truly ticked. There are even small items for secret Santa gifts (it is just once a year!). What about a gift for the man who has everything? We agree, it’s a constant battle and usually a tiresome toss-up between boring socks or even more boring handkerchiefs. Not so with Hamptons. Here you’ll be spoilt for choice. If you’ve seen all the Christmas movies planned this year (and let’s be honest, how many times can anyone watch It’s A Wonderful Life - however wonderful it is?), then why not visit Hamptons for one of their Christmas music and dinner events. Choose from tribute acts such as The Sounds of Motown, Good Vibrations, Tina Turner, Swinging 60s to the Sizzling 70s, The Blues
Brothers, Elvis Legacy, Mamma Mia, Tom Jones, and real life singing artistes Nat Augustin and Aubrey Parsons, culminating in Hamptons very own A Night at the Oscars on new year’s eve. These events usually sell out very quickly so we’d suggest booking early. If you were hoping to catch Father Christmas at the store this year, then unfortunately he is fully booked already but, you never know, there may be a cancellation. Well worth putting your name down for these immensely popular visits. Given that Santa is so busy around this time, he’s only available for a short time! In all honesty, national retailers could take note of what Andy and Peter achieve in a small independent store generally, but especially over the Christmas period, and how much enjoyment their efforts bring to their customers. Hamptons is lovely all year round but at Christmas it really is quite special - see you there.
Hamptons 10 Ludlow Lane, Penarth Vale of Glamorgan CF64 1EA 029 2070 5391 www.hamptonspenarth.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter 111
BRIDGEND
Wedding Fayre at Court Situated just outside of Bridgend, South Wales and nestled at the foot of the Garw Valley, but just a few minutes’ drive from the M4, Court Colman, a Grade II Listed Georgian Manor with six acres of landscaped gardens, is a peaceful retreat that is easily reached by road or rail plus it’s conveniently just 5 minutes’ drive from J36 of the M4.
Images courtesy of Weybeyond Photography
Court Colman is delighted to invite you to view its much anticipated garden room refurbishment and new, luxurious honeymoon suite at the grand unveiling at a wedding fayre on 29th November from 11am-4pm.
Each bride and groom will be able to wander around the Manor at their own leisure and will receive a free entry, complimentary good bag plus a chance to win a stay in the new honeymoon suite.
AWA R D - W I N N I N G P H O T O G R A P H Y
The honeymoon suite boasts a double jacuzzi set in the bedroom, double sinks and double showers, open views to the front of picturesque countryside. Brides and grooms can enjoy a complimentary stay in the honeymoon suite on the night of their wedding. The Manor also offers 30 guest bedrooms at discounted wedding rates. Four rooms are licenced for wedding ceremonies and receptions of varying sizes.
The venue offers exclusive use and a dedicated wedding planner. The garden room can seat 80 for ceremonies and functions. The light and airy room brings the best of the outdoors inside. Wedding menus are available with options from their on-site, awardwinning Indian restaurant. Packages are available throughout the year from just £2,999 (T&C’s apply). Court Colman Manor Pen-y-Fai, Bridgend, Mid Glamorgan CF31 4NG 01656 720212 experience@court-colman-manor.com www.court-colman-manor.com Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter, YouTube, TripAdvisor and Google+
Rob Jones Photography On your special day you want to be sure that every precious moment will be remembered forever. Rob Jones, an award-winning photographer, captures the joy and romance of you big day with sophisticated shots that will last a lifetime. Victoria Chambers, 100 John Street Portcawl 01656 859485 www.rob-jones.co.uk Follow on Facebook and Twitter THE PERFECT WEDDING VENUE
St. David’s Hotel & Spa The most exclusive wedding venue in Cardiff, the 5-star St. David’s Hotel & Spa boasts a sleek and elegant interior, complete with modern style and panoramic views across Cardiff Bay. Flooded with natural light and surrounded by breathtaking views, you can rest assured that the dedicated wedding and events team at the St David’s Hotel & Spa will take the stress out of organising your special day. Our flexible wedding and reception rooms are stunning backdrops for any event and have the versatility to accommodate a range of different set-ups:
“Take the stress out of organising your special day.”
Our new Penarth Suite is perfect for intimate weddings of 20 or fewer people n Our Dylan Thomas Suite accommodates 220 for a wedding breakfast and 350 evening guests n The Roald Dahl Suite is perfect for a wedding breakfast for up to 160 and 200 evening guests n
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St David’s Hotel and Spa Havannah Street, Cardiff CF10 5SD 029 2045 4045 www.thestdavidshotel.com Find on Facebook, follow on Twitter
A unique destination, in a unique part of Wales.
WENVOE
Yasmin Rose Bridal Couture The most important and exciting part of planning a wedding is buying your dream wedding dress. However, with the endless choices of design styles, shapes and fabrics, it can sometimes feel a lot more daunting than enjoyable. This is where Yasmin Rose Bridal Couture can help. Based in Wenvoe in private grounds, owner Yasmine Baig wanted to create something unique and exclusive for brides-to-be wanting that extra special bridal experience. With brands such as Christine Dando, Hayley Paige, Alvina Valenta, Watters, Wendy Makin, it’s easy to see why this bridal boutique is becoming more and more popular. Sizes range from between UK8 to UK16, so there’s a style to suit every shape (and every pocket). A choice of veils and headwear are available to complete each dress. By 2016 there will be a selection of shoes to further complete the outfit. So what makes Yasmin Rose special? “It’s the exclusive bridal experience each bride has the beautiful boutique to herself without any interruptions.
We offer complimentary drinks and also a VIP experience package, which gives brides the option to spend longer finding her dream dress,” says Yasmine. “Each gown has been carefully hand selected, making sure each dress is made with the best fabrics and is, of course, highly desirable.” Book your consultation with Yasmine to start your exciting journey!
Yasmin Rose Bridal Couture Greenacres, Morfa Lane Wenvoe, Cardiff CF5 6AE 029 2067 9688 info@yasminrosebridal.com www.yasminrosebridal.com Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter
Gree n a cres, M orfa L an e We n v oe, C ardi ff CF 5 6 AE
029 2 0 67 9 6 88 w w w.ya sminr o sebrid al.c om i n f o @ ya sm i n r osebri d al .c o m
L ik e on Fa cebo ok , Follow on T w it ter
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RHOOSE
Posh Pawz introduces new recruit! Posh Pawz is delighted to welcome Sandra Davies into the fold. Sandra trained at the Canine Design Academy of Grooming in Somerset and was the winner of the Grooming School in 2014. She will initially be working three days a week to help with the increasing demand for appointments.
At every groom they will check and clip nails, pluck and clean ears and empty anal glands if needed. The salon is fully air conditioned and heated with an open and relaxed feel. All breeds are welcome and every client is given the time they deserve and treated like a VIP (Very Important Pooch). Toys, goodies, shampoos and dog care products are available. They even supply a free Posh Pawz bandana with every groom!
At Posh Pawz Salon and Spa your dog always gets the best attention. Owners Kathryn Phillips and Jo Greenough are both fully trained groomers and offer a full range of grooming services including warm baths, blow drys, clipping and styling. Posh Pawz prides itself on excellent service.
Posh Pawz Salon and Spa 11 Fontygary Road, Rhoose CF62 3DR 01446 710044 poshpawzsalonandspa@gmail.com www.poshpawzsalonandspa.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter
R E L A X A F T E R A ‘ R U F F ’ D AY
K9 PLUS 1 Barry Island’s first dog themed coffee house where your furry best friend can enjoy some food with you as their invited guest. For the pooch in your life, no matter what size or breed, K9 Plus 1 offers a relaxing atmosphere for dogs with cozy beds, fresh water and a speciality menu just for them featuring a selection of home-made treats and snacks. Is it their birthday? If so, K9 Plus 1 also offer doggie parties in a setting that is perfect for your little (or big) friend to enjoy themselves with all their friends.
“ Barry Island’s first dog themed coffee house where your furry best friend can enjoy some food with you as their invited guest.”
7 Esplanade Buildings, Friars Road Barry Island CF62 5TJ Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter BARRY
Vale Veterinary Centre A new veterinary practice serving the Vale of Glamorgan providing both routine and emergency veterinary care 24 hours a day. We have all the tools to provide the very best care for your pet including digital X-Ray system, ultrasound scanner and blood analysers. Our clients benefit from both routine and emergency house calls, 24 hours a day. Being a local, family run business, your pet is guaranteed to see the same vet every time you visit the practice or greet us at your door, 24 hours a day. Providing a unique and bespoke service, which we believe sets us apart from the care your pet may currently receive elsewhere. We provide and endorse locally sourced pet foods and pet related services we trust. Vale Veterinary Centre 7/8 Ty Verlon Ind Estate, Cardiff Rd, Barry CF63 2BE 01446 739739 info@valevetcentre.co.uk www.valevetcentre.co.uk Like on Facebook
Ewenny Isaf is a handsome period home which dates back to the 18th Century. It was originally believed to have been a pottery and has been extended over time now offering generous family accommodation in a most enviable location within the village of Ewenny.
With its wisteria draped frontage, Ewenny Isaf retains an abundance of its original character and has been sympathetically and tastefully modernised by its current owners, with top quality fixtures and fittings throughout. It has been decorated with a neutral colour scheme marrying contemporary style with classic charm. Its impressive entrance hall opens to two principal living rooms which both boast open fires and a homely feel. Each offers views out to either the garden or fields beyond. The kitchen is a spacious and light room with Clive Christian units, solid granite worktops and an Aga. This opens into an adjacent bright and airy garden room/breakfast area which is perfect for day to day family living.
From here, double doors lead out to a flagstone patio with gardens beyond. There is also a separate dining room with its own wine store - an ideal space for entertaining a large party. On the first floor, the master bedroom suite enjoys a southerly views overlooking the gardens onto farmland. It has its own dressing area to one end with fitted units and, to the other, a Smallbone bathroom suite including twin basins resting within a marble surface. The three further large double bedrooms enjoy views over farmland to the north or south, and all have use of a large family bathroom with bath and separate shower. The second floor features a multipurpose study/games room. Beyond is 118
a large double bedroom with southerly views and an en-suite shower room. This could be perfect as a home office or accommodation for teenagers. Access to the property is through electric gates which lead to an ample parking area with double garage and workshop. The property sits within its own large garden with views over adjoining farmland and is set within a south facing plot of approximately 0.88 of an acre. The beautifully maintained gardens include flagstone paved seating areas, a rose arbour and extensive lawns planted with mature shrubs and fruiting apple trees. Beyond the garden boundary is an additional parcel of land of close to a quarter of an acre. This enclosed area includes a three bay stable block.
EWENNY ISAF The current owners have previously rented extra grazing for horses from a neighbouring landowner.
To the western edge of the Vale, Ewenny Isaf lies within the catchment area for Colwinston Primary School and also for Cowbridge Comprehensive. It is conveniently located for transport networks: Bridgend Station is 1.8 miles away and the M4 (junctions 35 and 36) are both within 4.5 miles). It is perfect for families looking for an accessible and convenient semi-rural location close to amenities and who would enjoy the peace and quiet of countryside living.
accommodation that can be adapted to suit individual requirements. It has a comfortable and homely feel which, married with its abundance of character, provides a beautiful family home in a convenient location.
“ Its impressive grand entrance hall opens to two principal living rooms which both boast open fires and a homely feel” 5 Bedrooms 4 Reception rooms 3 Bathrooms £825,000 Ewenny Isaf is on the market with Watts and Morgan 55 High St, Cowbridge CF71 7AE 01446 773 500 cowbridge@wattsandmorgan.wales www.wattsandmorgan.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter and Google+
Ewenny Village is home to an historic Priory, the world renowned Ewenny Pottery, and a local convenience store. Ewenny Isaf offers superb, flexible 119
ForForthethebestbestperiperiodod properti propertieseons onthethemarket market For the the best best period period For properties on on the the market market properties
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EWENNY ISAF, ABBEY ROAD, EWENNY, CF35 5BN EWENNY ISAF, ABBEY ROAD, EWENNY, CF35 5BN £825,000 £825,000 A rare opportunity to acquire an exquisite family home finished A to rare opportunity to acquire with an exquisite family home finished the highest of standards generous accommodation toincluding the highest of standards generous accommodation a Clive Christianwith kitchen. Double garage and parking including a Clive Christian kitchen. Doubleand garage and parking provision. South facing mature gardens additional land provision. South facing mature gardens and additional land with stable block. with stable block.
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THE COTTAGE, GROESFAEN, CF72 8NS THE COTTAGE, GROESFAEN, CF72 8NS £419,950 £419,950 Dating from around 1820, a characterful property that was
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A sympathetically charming cottage which has been thoughtfully andpresent re-furbished and extended by the sympathetically re-furbished extended bywithin the present owners in recent years. Theand cottage stands attractive, owners ingardens, recent years. The cottage stands within attractive, mature which provide a fine setting, and there are mature gardens, provide fine setting, and there are two car parkingwhich spaces to thearear. two car parking spaces to the rear.
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Y BWTHYN, LLANGAN, CF35 5DW Y £550,000 BWTHYN, LLANGAN, CF35 5DW £550,000 A charming cottage which has been thoughtfully and
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THE GREEN, LLANCARFAN, CF62 3AD THE GREEN, LLANCARFAN, CF62 3AD £575,000 £575,000 The property known as “The Green” is a large, detached home.
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PENLLWYN COTTAGE, BOVERTON, CF61 1UH PENLLWYN £389,950 COTTAGE, BOVERTON, CF61 1UH £389,950 A very pretty and deceptively spacious cottage to the
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NAVRON, THE CAUSEWAY, BOVERTON, CF61 1UH NAVRON, £154,950THE CAUSEWAY, BOVERTON, CF61 1UH £154,950 This characterful property sits in a surprisingly deceptive
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COWBRIDGE COWBRIDGE
BRIDGEND BRIDGEND BRIDGEND T 01656 T 01656 644 644 288 288 BRIDGEND E bridgend@wattsandmorgan.wales E bridgend@wattsandmorgan.wales T 01656 644 288
ForForthethebestbestperiperiodod properti propertieseons onthethemarket market
COWBRIDGE T 01446 T 01446 773773 500 500 COWBRIDGE E cowbridge@wattsandmorgan.wales E cowbridge@wattsandmorgan.wales T 01446 773 500 T 01656 644 288 T 01446 773 500 E bridgend@wattsandmorgan.wales E cowbridge@wattsandmorgan.wales LONDON LONDON E bridgend@wattsandmorgan.wales PENARTH PENARTHE cowbridge@wattsandmorgan.wales LONDON PENARTH T 020 T 020 7467 7467 5330 5330 T 029 T 029 2071 2071 2266 2266 E london@wattsandmorgan.co.uk E london@wattsandmorgan.co.uk E penarth@wattsandmorgan.wales E penarth@wattsandmorgan.wales T 020 LONDON 7467 5330 T 029 PENARTH 2071 2266 T 020 7467 5330 T 029 2071 2266 E london@wattsandmorgan.co.uk E penarth@wattsandmorgan.wales E london@wattsandmorgan.co.uk E penarth@wattsandmorgan.wales
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4 2 1UB MILL MILL BARN, BARN, BOVERTON, BOVERTON, CF61 CF61 1UB 2 MILL BARN, BOVERTON, CF61 1UB £549,950 £549,950 MILL BARN, BOVERTON, CF61 1UB £549,950 A stylish A stylish barn barn conversion conversion in an in an incredible incredible location location with with south south £549,950 facing facing frontage frontage and and views views over over farmland farmland onto onto the the Bristol Bristol A stylish barn conversion in an incredible location with south
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4PEN 1LLANCARFAN, 3 THE THE GRANARY, GRANARY, PEN ONN, ONN, LLANCARFAN, CF62 CF62 3AG 3AG THE GRANARY, PEN ONN, LLANCARFAN, CF62 3AG £695,000 £695,000 THE GRANARY, PENa ONN, LLANCARFAN, CF62 3AG £695,000 A thoughtfully A thoughtfully converted converted barn barn in ainunique unique setting, setting, enjoying enjoying £695,000 views views over over farmland farmland onto onto the the village village of of Llancarfan. Llancarfan. High High quality quality A thoughtfully converted barn in a unique setting, enjoying
A stylish barn conversion in an incredible location A thoughtfully converted barn in Llancarfan. a very unique setting, enjoying Channel Channel and and the the north north Devon Devon coast. coast. South South facing facing garden garden to to with south finish finish throughout throughout with with a South a South facing facing forecourt, forecourt, very generous generous facing frontage and views over farmland onto the Bristol views over farmland onto the village of High quality facing frontage views overSouth farmland onto the Bristol views over farmland onto the village ofthe Llancarfan. High quality front front with with additional additional converted converted barn/summer barn/summer house/home house/home lawn lawn with with open open farmland farmland to to the rear rear looking looking over over the Channel and the northand Devon coast. facing garden to finish throughout with athe South facing forecourt, very generous Channel and the north Devon coast. South facing garden toLlancarfan finish throughout with a South facing forecourt, office office available available byadditional by separate separate negotiation. negotiation. Llancarfan river valley valley onto onto thethe village itself. itself. front with converted barn/summer house/home lawnriver with open farmland tovillage the rear looking over the very generous front withby additional barn/summer house/home lawnriver with valley open farmland to the rear office available separate converted negotiation. Llancarfan onto the village itself.looking over the office available by separate negotiation. Llancarfan river valley onto the village itself.
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5 STST 3 3 ORCHARD ORCHARD HOUSE, HOUSE, DONATS, DONATS, CF61 CF61 1ZB 1ZB ORCHARD HOUSE, ST DONATS, CF61 1ZB £589,950 £589,950 ORCHARD HOUSE, ST DONATS, CF61 1ZB £589,950 A distinctive A distinctive former former farmhouse, farmhouse, enjoying enjoying a prominent a prominent £589,950 position position within thisthis popular popular Vale Vale of of Glamorgan Glamorgan Awithin distinctive former farmhouse, enjoyingcoastal a coastal prominent
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4 1LLANCARFAN, 2 THE THE OLD OLD BAKEHOUSE, BAKEHOUSE, LLANCARFAN, CF62 CF62 3AT 3AT THE OLD BAKEHOUSE, LLANCARFAN, CF62 3AT £725,000 £725,000 THE OLD BAKEHOUSE, LLANCARFAN, CF62 3AT £725,000 A delightful A delightful period period property property retaining retaining original original character character £725,000 and and charm. charm. Surrounded Surrounded byproperty by extensive extensive lawned lawned grounds grounds that that A delightful period retaining original character
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3 LLANBLETHIAN, 1 1 CF71 THE THE CAUSEWAY, CAUSEWAY, LLANBLETHIAN, CF71 7JE 7JE THE CAUSEWAY, LLANBLETHIAN, CF71 7JE £309,950 £309,950 THE CAUSEWAY, LLANBLETHIAN, CF71 7JE £309,950 AnAn increasingly increasingly rare rare opportunity opportunity to to purchase purchase a true a true character character £309,950 cottage cottage in increasingly this in this most most desirable desirable Village. Village. Large Large living-dining living-dining An rare opportunity to purchase a true character
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1OLD 1 1 SCHOOL, THE THE RANGE, RANGE, THE THE OLD GRAMMAR GRAMMAR SCHOOL, THE RANGE, THE OLD GRAMMAR SCHOOL, COWBRIDGE, COWBRIDGE, CF71 CF71 7BB 7BB £375,000 £375,000 THE RANGE, THE OLD GRAMMAR SCHOOL, COWBRIDGE, CF71 7BB £375,000 A generous A generous home home within within thisthis exclusive exclusive community community yards yards from from COWBRIDGE, CF71 7BB £375,000 Cowbridge Cowbridge High High Street. Street. Large Large living living room, room, kitchen kitchen breakfast breakfast A generous home within this exclusive community yards from
A rare opportuni A rare opportuni ty to acquityretoanacqui exquiresanite exqui familysithome e famifinily home shed finished A charminAgcharmi cottagengwhi cottage ch haswhibeen ch has thoughtful been thoughtful ly and ly and to the higtohesttheofhistandards ghest of standards with generous with generous accommodati accommodati on on sympathetisympatheti cally re-furbi callyshed re-furbi andsextended hed and extended by the present by the present includinginaclCluidivengChria Clstiivaen Chri kitchen. stianDoubl kitchen.e garage Doubleandgarage parkiand ng parking owners inowners recent iyears. n recent Theyears. cottage Thestands cottagewistands thin attracti withinve,attractive, www.wattsandmorgan.wales www.wattsandmorgan.wales provision.provi Southsiofaci n. South ng mature facinggardens mature and gardens additand ionaladdi landtional land mature gardens, mature gardens, which proviwhiwww.wattsandmorgan.wales dcehaprovi fine dsetti e a nfine g, and settithere ng, andarethere are www.wattsandmorgan.wales with stablwie tblhostabl ck. e block. two car parki two ncarg spaces parkingtospaces the rear.to the rear.
Aninfireplace increasingly rare opportunity to purchase A generous home withinliving this exclusive community yards from room room with with deep deep fireplace and and kitchen kitchen opening opening to the the rear reara true character room. room. Galleried Galleried landing landing and contemporary contemporary bathroom, bathroom, double double cottage this most desirable Village. Large living-dining Cowbridge High and Street. Large room, kitchen breakfast cottage in this most desirable Village. Large living-dining Cowbridge High Street. Large living room, kitchen breakfast garden. garden. There There is an isdeep an additional additional very very useable useable attic attic room. room. bedroom bedroom with with extensive extensive wardrobe wardrobe provision. Own Own patio patio and and room with fireplace and kitchen opening to the rear room. Galleried landing andprovision. contemporary bathroom, double room with deep fireplace and kitchen opening to the rear useuse room. Galleried landing and contemporary Parking Parking area area to to front front and and large, large, south south facing facing lawned lawned garden. garden. of of communal communal gardens. gardens. Parking. Parking. garden. There is an additional very useable attic room. bedroom with extensive wardrobe provision. Ownbathroom, patio and double garden. an large, additional useable attic room. extensive wardrobe provision. Own patio and Parking area toThere front is and southvery facing lawned garden. use of bedroom communalwith gardens. Parking. Parking area to front and large, south facing lawned garden. use of communal gardens. Parking.
pa black is the exclusive homes service from Peter Alan, which claims to be Wales’ largest estate agency with over 50 years’ experience of selling homes, and now, due to the continued success of the pa black brand, a new branch has recently been opened at 52 High Street, Cowbridge.
BACK TO BLACK
pa black is a powerful brand with a clear focus on quality and distinction, which is now recognised for selling properties in the upper end of the market. Due to the continued success of the brand over the past year, the premium service was introduced into eight branches across Cardiff and Penarth. The new Cowbridge office will work closely with these existing branches to find suitable purchasers and promote properties across the pa black network. The new branch in Cowbridge is managed by Craig Merlini who has previously run several Peter Alan and pa black branches successfully. Having grown up in Llanblethian and attending Cowbridge comprehensive school, Craig is really excited about working in his home town.
“I’m looking forward to helping the residents of Cowbridge and surrounding area to sell and move home. Customer service and communication is the key to ensuring a smooth sale and completion for all parties involved, and really helps to make the process as easy as possible.” Craig will be joined by a dedicated team of staff with extensive experience of the property industry, including Francesca Tanguy, Business Development and Regional Valuer. “Francesca is a prominent local resident who brings a wealth of knowledge with her as she has over 30 years of experience in estate agency. Well known in Cowbridge, she will offer customers quality sales advice, with a professional service from sale through to completion.” 122
Janine Morse, Claire Cash and Hassan Alkarim complete the team as Property Consultants. Janine has joined the Cowbridge team after working in the Porthcawl branch. “Claire brings years of property experience to Cowbridge and has been a major influence in the success of pa black in our Cardiff city centre office; and Hassan has recently joined pa black to develop a successful career in prestigious estate agency,” says Craig. pa black provides customers with a premium property marketing package as standard. Vendors benefit from a HD film of their property; professional photography; enhanced listings on the two biggest property websites, Rightmove and Zoopla; advertising in local publications; specialist innovative digital property displays in branch; and exposure in the company’s own ‘Distinctive’ magazine.
Above, the Cowbridge pa black team: Left to right - Janine Morse, Hassan Alkarim, Claire Cash, Francesca Tanguy, and Craig Merlini.
Craig continued, “My team and I are dedicated to providing a firstclass service and excellence at every touchpoint of the home buying and selling process. I feel that it is vital that we take our time with viewings, always allocating at least an hour for a property to ensure the potential purchaser does not feel rushed. Further to this, I always ensure that each member of the team visits all of the properties that we have available for sale before viewings commence. This ensures that all staff are fully knowledgeable on our properties and as a result are able provide a better service to our customers.�
If you would like to talk to pa black about marketing your property then call 01446 772857 or email enquiries@pablack.co.uk pa black 52 High Street, Cowbridge CF71 7AH 01446 772857 www.pablack.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter and Pinterest 123
Welcome to Vale Life Magazine’s Social Life section, a veritable who’s who in and around the Vale.
SOCIAL L IFE HENSOL
Hensol Castle welcomes guests to VIP launch
Newly opened conference and wedding venue, Hensol Castle, welcomed guests to an official corporate launch on 23 June 2015, showcasing the recently refurbished venue in the grounds of the 4 star Vale Resort. Guests of the VIP launch enjoyed an evening of musical entertainment, a ‘Wines of the World’ tasting experience, courtesy of Fine Wines Direct, and an exclusive Q and A session with Wales rugby coach, Warren Gatland, and former Welsh international footballer, Craig Bellamy. The 400 year-old Grade I listed castle has undergone a multi-million pound refurbishment and reopened as a firstclass venue in May this year. The first phase of the £10 million programme included a complete upgrade of five function rooms and the construction of a new, purpose-built Courtyard Hall. The Courtyard Hall is capable of accommodating 320 delegates theatrestyle and 200 banquet-style. This is complemented by the five smaller meeting rooms in the castle itself, which can host between 10 to 100 delegates per room theatre-style. Phase two of the refurbishment will include adding up to 30 bedrooms and a high-end restaurant serving 120 covers, and is expected to be open by late 2016. Hensol Castle www.vale-hotel.com 124
PENARTH
PIER64 launches its summer menu Craig Bellamy, proprietor of the beautifully positioned PIER64 Wine Bar & Steakhouse overlooking Penarth Marina, welcomed special guests to celebrate their newly refurbished wine bar and summer menu with a little Moet Ice!
Sian Lloyd & Stifyn Parri
“PIER64 was always ‘almost’ the best restaurant in Cardiff. Now it does what it says on the tin!,” says Craig. PIER64 Wine Bar & Steakhouse Penarth Marina, Penarth CF64 1TT 029 2000 0064 info@pier64.co.uk www.pier64.co.uk
Charles & Sara Dale
Sarra Elgan, Simon Easterby & Angharad Mair
VA L E
Christmas party nights at Cottrell Park Award winning Cardiff based caterers, Spiros, and Cottrell Park, the luxury golf and special events resort, hosted an event to mark the launch of their Christmas party nights.
Enid Evans, Jo Bird & Wendy Davies
Miranda Burdett, James Koash & Rekha Puri
Gaynor Openshaw-Smith, Shakira Obaid & Esther Storey
Pauline & John Masey
Guests were treated to traditional roast turkey and Christmas themed cocktails. They must have surely been confused given the glorious July day! Book now for the Magical Winter Wonderland experience at Cottrell Park. www.cottrellpark.com www.spiros.co.uk
Sophie Close & Michelle Hopkins
Leighton Brookfield, Kris Agland, Lee Henrickson & Guy Brooks-Edwards
David Johns-Powell, Paul Smolinski & Jason Chapman
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WENVOE
Yasmin Rose Bridal Couture welcomes guests to view latest collections Guests gathered in the beautiful setting of Greenacres for bubbles and a delicious buffet to view the latest bridal collections. The boutique is set in private grounds and offers brides the ultimate bridal shopping experience and highly desirable gowns. From designers such as Hayley Paige, Watters and Christine Dando there are a variety of styles with prices ranging from £1000-£3000.
Yasmine & Akram
Images courtesy of Paul Sullivan
Yasmin Rose Couture Bridal Greenacres, Morfa Lane, Wenvoe Cardiff CF5 6AE 029 2067 9688
info@yasminrosebridal.com www.yasminrosebridal.com Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter
“We are offering brides the ultimate bridal shopping experience and highly desirable gowns.” VA L E H O T E L
Cardiff to Paris Black and White Ball A stunning night was had by all at The Vale Hotel in August. The event was organised to mark the end of the fundraising for a group of cyclists who took on the 350km challenge back in May this year. The intense 3 day challenge raised over £55,000 for Tenovus Cancer Care. This money will make such a huge difference to cancer patients and their families across wales. www. tenovuscancercare.org.uk
Anton Jones, Martyn Williams (Pinnacle Office Equipment Ltd) and Jon Prince (Houghton International)
Glynn Grey, (Willis Construction) and Amanda Grey
Steve and Sarah Davies, FCE Wales Ltd
Sian Phillips and Rob Morland
Lyndon Pezzack (Buy As You View) and Sharn Richards (Pinnacle Office Equipment Ltd)
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Christian and Michelle Davey
Clive Hamilton (Pinnacle Office Equipment Ltd)
Cheryl George (Tenovus Cancer Care) and Sharn Richards (Pinnacle Office Equipment Ltd)
Helen & George
Michelle, Karen & Debbie
Gregg, Yasmine & Stacey
Debbie, Yasmine & Judy
Greg g & James
Yasmine, Emma & James
DINAS POWYS
Waterstone Homes Launches Chapters Guests gathered to view the exclusive new Waterstone Homes collection of luxury properties at Chapters, Dinas Powys, Vale of Glamorgan. Prosecco was sipped and pretty canapes were served on vintage crockery while an amazing No Fit State Circus performer wowed the crowds with feats of strength, balance and agility. www.waterstonehomes.com
PONTCANNA FIELDS
The sport of kings returns in style Castell Polo recently presented Polo In The City. The sport of king’s made its return to the capital city in style with The Watches Of Wales Cup. Taking place within a specially created Polo Village on Pontcanna Fields, guests turned up in their hundreds to experience the sport, glamour and excitement of Polo. www.castellpolo.co.uk
Steve Sulley, Zoe Westerman, Jon Hollins
COWBRIDGE
pa black comes to Cowbridge pa black, the exclusive homes service from Peter Alan - Wales’ largest estate agency with over 50 years’ experience of selling homes has now opened a branch in Cowbridge. Branch manager Craig Merlini and his staff welcomed guests to view the new premises and to chat about the services pa black have to offer. If you would like to talk to pa black about marketing your property then call 01446 772857 or email enquiries@pablack.co.uk pa black 52 High Street, Cowbridge CF71 7AH 01446 772857 www.pablack.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter @pablackhomes
P O R T H CAW L
Guests preview the new season’s stock at The Closet
Christine James, Gemma Williams-Jones, Joy Latcham, Joanna John & Caren Evans
Guests were lucky enough to get a sneaky look at the new season’s stock at The Closet in Porthcawl. The fizz was on hand as were delicious summer fruits. The Closet 3 Well Street, Porthcawl CF36 3BE 01656 789381 www.thecloset.boutique Like on Facebook
Joanna & Pete Hurn
Gemma & Sam Williams-Jones
Libby Holden & Rebecca Lloyd
Kathryn Swallow & Lynda Harris
Laura and Olivia Baglow (aged 11)
Sue Evans, Tegwen Williams, Julie Butt, Meg Edwards, Gaynor Oak (Soroptomists, Port Talbot)
Sue Saines, Karen Campbell-Ace, Janette Bowers
Megan Golderger, Miss Teen Bridgend Galaxy, Roma Robb, Pageant Management (and grandmother)
Michelle Harris, Mint Hairdressing
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Christmas is all about indulgence - great company, good wine and, most importantly great food. Imagine having your own chef prepare and serve fabulous home-cooked food in the comfort of your own home, leaving you free to act as host to your guests.
STIRRING THE SOUL
Have we whetted your appetite? Then read on to find out how award-winning catering company E J Catering, can help you create the perfect private house party and turn your dream into reality. With extensive knowledge and experience of the event catering industry, you can trust their highly talented and professional team led by Creative Director, Emma Jenkins. What can you expect from the menu? Whether you choose a menu directly from the website or tailor one with Emma to suit your needs, you can rest assured that it will be mouth-wateringly tasty. Flavour is paramount and EJ’s team of chefs cook everything from scratch with great skill and creativity, using fresh, seasonal ingredients from, where possible, local suppliers. What if I want something a bit unique? No challenge is too great! Creating bespoke menus and tackling the practicalities of putting on a great event is what EJ Catering does best. They have created a snow-filled wonderland with a feast of canapés, hosted a Downton Abbey evening with staff dressed in costume and even catered a night at the circus!
How many guests can I have at my dinner party? E J Catering cater large weddings and corporate events but they also specialize in small, bespoke dinner parties of generally up to 8-12 people. The size of the party is dictated by the size of the dining room. What about guests with special dietary requirements? Not a problem. As long as they know in advance what the requirements are, they will devise an alternative, equally tasty and exciting option. Who will serve the food and do the washing up? E J Catering has a superb team who will take care of every aspect of your party. They serve your drinks, take your coats and put flowers in water. They will lay your table (though many clients enjoy dressing their own), serve your meal and then clean up afterwards. Who will this service appeal to? Catering in private houses has always been popular with couples, families, office parties and anyone looking for good quality homecooked food, served creatively and professionally. 130
Is this a costly affair? Not as costly as you would expect. Prices range from around £35.00 per person for a three course meal and around £10.00 per head for a selection of canapés, but will depend on how many guests you have, your menu and your location. You can provide your own alcohol and Emma’s team will help you select wines to complement your meal. Alternatively, EJ Catering can supply all the drink for you. How do we book? If you still have some questions about your dinner party or want more information, please contact us and we will be more than happy to help!
E J Catering Unit P5, Capital Business Park Capital Point, Parkway, Cardiff CF3 2PU 029 2033 1723 07974 810983 www.ejcatering.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter and Instagram
ALEXANDER JAMES
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THANK YOU Thanks for taking the time to read the autumn edition of Vale Life magazine. Vale Life is the Vale Of Glamorgan’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 Vale 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 the Vale then Vale Life is almost certainly right for you. Jennifer Hobbs-Roberts Editor jennifer@valelife.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 We proudly publish four Life-style magazines and one business to business title. “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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