Northern Woman April 2018 by Helen Wright

Editor’s Letter

i all, Welcome to the April edition of Northern Woman. As always the issue is jam-packed with the very latest trends; from Dad trainers to sock sneakers, Coachella-inspired festival wear, pencil skirts and more. This season is all about making bold choices with colour as head-to-toe colour blocking is in. Check out this month’s ‘Crazy Brights’ fashion editorial for style inspiration. Local designer, Chloe Dougan, has just returned from a fashion show in Buckingham Palace. She tells Northern Woman about her experience mixing with supermodels and world-famous fashion designers. I have always loved hearing or reading about inspiring local women and I’m keen to share their stories in the magazine. So this month NW journalist Elizabeth Moore reports on an award-winning mentor, a mental health advocate, and a leading nutritional therapist. Also in this issue Northern Woman catches up with NI Fitness Show host, Rebecca McKinney, to find out more about the upcoming health and fitness event. Career and leadership coach, Sinead Sharkey, reveals her top tips to help you secure a promotion. Celebrity makeup artist and influencer, Aimee Connolly, shares her step-by-step smokey eye guide so you can recreate the look at home. And beauty writer Claire Craig spotlights the very latest

The glam gang: Louise Donnelly , Jenny Ashfield and Grace Davison

makeup bag must-haves. Journalist Jade Beecroft gets to grips with Swedish death cleaning, while our interiors specialist Róisín Carabine explains how to hang your pictures like a pro. In addition to that, we also bring you travel reviews, competitions, movie listings, readers’ weddings and the local events you won’t want to miss. We also have a fantastic subscription offer running. Get 11 issues of NW delivered direct to your door for only £15, and the price includes a free Semí Dí Lino Illuminating Shine Lotion by ALFAPARF Milano worth £25. To subscribe call 0800 028 1909 (ROI 0044 800 028 1909) or email subscriptions@belfasttelegraph. co.uk. Enjoy the issue, don’t forget to tweet or email us your thoughts, and check in our Facebook and Instagram pages for daily updates. Until next month,

Catriona Doherty Editor Northern Woman

Contact me at: c.doherty@independentmagazinesni.co.uk. Follow NW on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/NorthernWomanMagazine and Instagram @NorthernWomanMagazine. Tweet us at: @NorthernWomanNW.

CONTENTS APRIL 2018

STYLE 08 PENCIL POWER Skirt with attitude 09 TRENDING TRAINERS Dad trainers, sock style and more 12 FESTIVAL FIERCE Coachella style 15 QUEEN OF STYLE 16 GET AHEAD IN THE STYLE STAKES 18 CRAZY BRIGHTS Head-to-toe colour blocking FEATURES 27 REBECCA MCKINNEY Talks fitness 31 GET A PROMOTION How to get ahead 32 YES DEAR? The ill-advised things that men say 34 THE 10 AGONISING STAGES of an online grocery shopping delivery BEAUTY 36 SMOKEY EYE IN MINUTES Aimee Connollyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s step-by-step guide 37 THE BEAUTY EDIT Makeup bag must-haves 38 HAIR DYE HORROR 40 MUA TOOLKIT What every girl needs in her makeup bag 43 DRY SKIN SOS 44 #BEAUTY INSPO Trends hot off the runway HEALTH AND WELLNESS 46 PROFILE: Colonic Hydrotherapy 47 WORK AT IT 48 10 WAYS to decide the life you want and make it happen 50 WOMEN INSPIRING WOMEN ESCAPE 54 BEIRUT CITY GUIDE What to do on short stay in the Lebanese capital

Credit: Vero Moda

Cover image Photography Brendan Gallagher, styling Niamh Cunningham, hair Grace Davison, makeup Louise Donnelly, model Jenny Ashfield. Coat from Topshop.

Credit: Zara

Where to eat, drink and say in Manhattan 58 SKI HOLIDAYS What to pack LIVING 66 ART TO HEART Hang your pictures like a pro 70 SWEDISH DEATH CLEANING The latest Scandi craze to sweep our homes 72 FRENCH VICTORIAN STYLE Inside a reader’s home 76 DOUBLE UP Designer doubles IN EVERY ISSUE

60 LET’S DRINK TO… Chocolate liqueur 62 THE SOCIAL 10 Local events not to miss 64 MOVIE ROUNDUP 78 LOCAL WEDDINGS 83 THE ALBUM Social pics 95 BLOGGER CORNER Life as a first-time mum-to-be 96 NORTHEN MAN Jeff Meredith’s year on the allotment 98 WIN A stay at The Heritage Killenard

Publisher Independent News & Media Ltd Belfast Telegraph House 33 Clarendon Road Clarendon Dock Belfast BT1 3GB T: 028 9026 4264 Production Manager: Irene Fitzsimmons Editor: Catriona Doherty Design: Robert Armstrong Sales Manager: Ciara Hedgcock Art Editor: Helen Wright Editorial Contributors Aimee Connolly, Claire Craig, Clare Bowie, Elizabeth Moore, Eunice Nelson, Jade Beecroft, Jeff Meredith, Paula Gracey and Róisín Carabine Independent News & Media © 2016. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form, or by any means; electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise without the prior permission of Independent News & Media.

STYLE

Credit: V-Neck Back Playsuit from Closet London Â£80

Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week, Berlin. Getty Images

Pencil Skirt from Joseph Ribkoff £159

Checked Tie Waist and Pocket Skirt from Closet London £45

Blue Denim Pencil Skirt from Warehouse £36

Penci

Skirt from Oasis £45

This b owe o a r rd is bac k in fa room stap le bold c shion – t print olours, c hink h or mo nochr eck ome Check Skirt from H&M £24.99

Reilley Skirt from L.K.Bennett £425 Skirt from Zara £49.99. Image by Khara Pringle for Belfast Fashion Week, makeup by Paddy McGurgan at Make Up Pro Store, Hair by Lee Stinton

Badgley Mischka, New York Fashion Week

Red Asymmetric Frill Skirt from Closet London £52

Louis Vuitton Show, Paris Fashion Week. Getty Images Sketchers Lace-up Trainers from Deichmann UK £49.99

Deerupt from Adidas £89.99

Light Grey Trainers from New Look £22.99

DAD SNEAKERS

Dad sneakers are the frumpy new fashion trend. Look out for a masculine-style chunky sole, lace up, nineties-style shoe. Also known as ‘ugly trainers’, the exaggerated sole creates an overblown silhouette that contrasts with the clean cut, simple sneakers that have been popular for many years now, but, we actually love the look. Team your dads with a floral dress, suit or slip dress.

Platform satin sneakers from Mango £49.99

Li-Ning, New York Fashion Week. Getty Images

Dare from ASOS £38 Hoka Arahi from Pure Running, Belfast £110

Red sneakers from Uterqüe £79

Add a touch of sports luxe with Dad trainers

Chunky Sole Sneakers from Zara £49.99

TRENDING TRAINERS

Flyroam Go Knit Blue Flower from Timberland £115

Floral High-top Sneakers from Zara £29.99

SOCK SNEAKER

For us the sock trainer is a “we need more time” trend. At first glance we’re just not sure of the stretchy sock-style sneaker, but they are bang on trend this season and scream comfort, so we’re definitely going to give it a go.

Sock sneakers from Mango £49.99 Darlington from ASOS £25

Blogger SnazzyYazi wearing Converse Gold Leather Platforms from Bejeweled at Soul, Strabane £80

Dynamic Gold Leather Platform Trainer from Crime London £169

Metallic grainy leather trainers from Jimmy Choo £450

Cotin from Pavers, Linen Green, Dungannon £29.99

Kyle Buckled Sneaker from Chloé £530

METALLIC

The metallic trainer trend is major. From shiny silver to rose gold hues, and copper embellished detail – metallic sneakers effortlessly update any outfit this spring. Silver trainers from H&M £25.99

YEYE NINTU from NUBIKK £140

Desigual at New York Fashion Week. Getty Images

White Trainers from Miss Selfridge £32

Vivienne Hu. New York Fashion Week. Getty Images

BRIGHT WHITES

Pineapple Lace Up Leather Trainers from White Stuff £55

Add a crisp freshness to your spring style with classic white trainers, which are spring’s must-have. Despite 2018’s new sneaker trends, fear not – the white sneaker is as popular as ever. Mega versatile – team yours with culottes or skinny jeans and a trench coat, or pair ‘fresh out of the box’ squeakyclean trainers with office wear.

Trainers from Dorothy Perkins £20

Snakeskin White Trainers from Oasis £26 Emillie from Dune London £80

Bejewelled sneakers from Bershka £29.99

Clear plastic coat from Primark £25

Sequin embellished floral top from F&F at Tesco £20

Trousers from Topshop £55 Divided dress from H&M £19.99

CRYSTAL CLEAR

Whether you are lucky enough to attend Coachella, or you’re seeking festival-wear inspo for a party at home – this season opt for PVC, sheers and chiffons. Incorporate the trend into dresses and tops layered over a cute bralet or tank top. Complete the outfit with a plastic rain mac Mr Karl Lagerfeld would be proud of.

Pink raincoat from Miss Selfridge £39

Street style at Coachella 2017. Getty Images

Pink holo jacket from TK Maxx £19.99 Dark embroidered mesh maxi dress from Dorothy Perkins £55

Get kitted out Coachella-style with our what’s what guide to this season’s festival fashion

Festival BY LUCY NORRIS

NATURE’S CALLING

Ochre frill hem trouser from Miss Selfridge £28 Ochre strappy scalloped vest from Miss Selfridge £22

Cream lemon print ruffle shorts from Prettylittlething.com £18

Street style at Coachella 2017. Getty Images

The lust for earthy neutral tones and fluid hippy-esque material featuring this SS18 could not be more fitting for a few days camping out in the dusty desert. Go wild for brown-fringed numbers and channel your inner sixties chick when packing your suitcase.

Striped top from Maison de Nimes at House of Fraser £45

MUSIC TO OUR EARS

Every outfit needs the perfect accessories and this month it’s all about going big or going home. Choose bold, bright oversized earrings to escalate your wardrobe to festival-worthy fashion.

Suede fringe jacket from V by Very £150

Colourful Earrings from M&S Collection £15

Pink hoop long tassel earrings from Accessorize £7 Orange wrap ball bead embellished chandelier earrings from New Look £6.99 Red and white striped button front skirt from New Look £19.99

fierce Embellished trainer from Dune London £99

Street style at Coachella 2017. Getty Images

s from la run 8. For l e h c Coa April 201 visit 13-22 rom Lucy om/ f .c more stagram n r .i e www uceblogg l

Street style at Coachella 2017. Getty Images

A BAG IDEA

Forget lugging round purses and crossstrapped bags. Apart from the absolute live saving qualities of having a bag Gold sequined bum clipped on around bag from New Look your waist, bum £12.99 bags also look super stylish and are bang on trend for SS18.

Navy bum bag from River Island £18 Belt bag in yellow from Zara £15.99 Purple water bottle from Paperchase £7

Hat from Topshop £16

Insta glow from Sunkissed £4.99

Red Palazzo from Primark £8

MAKE A SPLASH

Turn heads with shocking pinks, electric blues and cheerful yellows as you rock out at the main stage.

Red Herring from Debenhams £29

Nappa leather buckled sandals from Uterqüe £99

Formula urban shield skin defence mist from M&S £11.50

Formula daily advanced facial cleansing wipes from M&S £4

SURVIVAL OF THE FITTEST Though Coachella will be a blast, spending days in the scorching heat, sleeping on the floor may take its toll. Bring along these essentials to make your festival experience that little bit more glam. I promise, you’ll thank us later!

Queen of style

Local designer, Chloe Dougan, has just returned from a fashion show in Buckingham Place

t’s not every day that you’re invited to attend a fashion event at Buckingham Palace, and when 26-year-old Antrim designer Chloe Dougan received her email invite to The Commonwealth Fashion Exchange she thought it was a joke. “I initially thought it was a prank; I couldn’t believe it,” Chloe recalls. “Last year I showcased my designs in the annual St Andrews fashion show; the university where William and Kate met, and where Kate famously walked the catwalk during her time as a student there, so perhaps that was the royal connection to my invite. “The Commonwealth Fashion Exchange was the first show of its nature, featuring designers from the 53 Commonwealth countries. The exhibition was held in Buckingham Palace in the presence of The Duchess of Cambridge and The Countess of Wessex. The purpose of the Exchange was to create networks and relationships amongst designers and artisans, to emphasise the importance of sustainability in the fashion industry, and refocus the importance on luxury, hand-made garments and craftsmanship.” Chloe’s experience was surreal – from walking through the front doors of Buckingham Palace as in invited guest, to

mixing with A-list celebrities. She recalls: “The whole evening was like a dream and I didn’t want it to end. When my taxi pulled up my heart was beating so fast, but once I walked through the gates that nervousness turned to excitement and I was like a kid at Christmas. After the Buckingham Palace front doors came this giant courtyard and I saw a queue of well-dressed people waiting to get in.

“The paparazzi and fancy cars were all lined up and everyone was excited to see the inside of The Palace. “Once inside we walked up the grand staircase escorted by a member of staff, in to the Galleries. Everywhere I looked I could see architrave, artwork in giant gold frames, beautiful ornaments and furniture. “The Palace itself is so decadent and beautiful that it was hard for it all to sink in. Rubbing shoulders with designers like Stella McCartney, Anya Hindmarch, and supermodels like Erin O’Connor and Naomi Campbell was just incredible.” Chloe enjoyed sipping Champagne and soaking up the atmosphere, but there is one moment that stood out most for her she says: “Seeing Kate Middleton and Anna Wintour in the flesh was just overwhelming. They were both standing a metre away from me. It was hard to remain calm as I was so excited. We weren’t allowed our phones or else it would have been the perfect time to get a quick selfie. “At the event I took the opportunity to network with the Editor-at-Large of Vogue, Hamish Bowles, and Livia Firth CEO and founder of Eco Age. I enjoyed talking with like-minded individuals and designers who had set up their own ateliers, shops or websites. It was fascinating to learn how others had paved the way for their success.” Following the excitement of The Commonwealth Fashion Exchange Chloe is now busy working on a new collection of jumpsuits and dresses, from her studio at the Duncairn Culture and Arts Centre, Belfast. “I have designed a jumpsuit like the one I wore to The Palace and I’ve called the outfit ‘Kate’. I think it would be beautiful worn as a blush pink or white bridesmaid’s dress, or as wedding guest attire. The collection is glamorous and elegant but still has my signature leather or metallic details throughout - perfect for a glam event. “I’m keen to stock in more boutiques and expand my brand this year too. My customer is the 25+ woman who has flair, edge and creativity with her style. She has the confidence to carry a bespoke look and the creativity to style it with other pieces in her collection. She is confident, bold and likes to make an entrance. “My designs are sold online or made to order. Limited pieces are stocked in Una Rodden Couture, Belfast, and in Ona By Agne, Magherafelt.” n

Gucci Show, Milan Fashion Week. Getty Images

Get ahead in the

STYLE STAKES From pastels to Eighties-inspired garb these are the new trends to invest in BY SARAH YOUNG

new season is upon us but while stores and online retailers signal the change by ornamenting their rails with short skirts, camisole tops and sandals, for most of us the weather still calls for warmer attire. Nonetheless, the time has come to take stock of the forthcoming trends and start plotting your wardrobe for the coming season. But, instead of investing in highsummer items that will be relegated to the back of your closet for weeks, if not months, consider key items you can incorporate into your look right now. Here, we take a look at the Spring/ Summer 2018 trends you can wear now to really get ahead in the style stakes.

Gelato moments

While pastels are hardly innovative, this season’s ice-cream hues come in a range of sugary shades that look good on everything from tiers of ruffles to sharp tailoring. On the runway, Preen by Thornton Bregazzi demonstrated just how to nail the saccharine trend without sacrificing on power, with one-shouldered dresses and drapery in shades of pink and green. Meanwhile, Victoria Beckham opted for head-to-toe Parma Violet hues, and lemon sorbet was the order of the day at Hermès. A great way to bring a little sunshine to your wintery ensembles, wear these delicate shades on chunky knits, two-piece suits or trendy berets.

Checks please

Heritage checks were huge for Autumn/ Winter and it looks like they’re here to stay. Seen on oversized coats at Balenciaga and feminine styles at Victoria Beckham, these new looks prove that plaid can be worn all year round. Aside from their traditional appeal, other designers like Sonia Rykiel and Mary Katrantzou opted for beautifully bright

Street Style, Stockholm Fashion Week. Getty Images

gingham and shopper-bag checks while British brand Burberry reignited its classic check print on everything from rain coats to baseball caps. Wear yours on blazers and tailored trousers or floaty midi skirts that can be paired with knee-high boots.

Crayola brights

Feeling brave? Then is the trend for you. While bright colours are nothing new when it comes to warmer climes, this time round the focus is on a paintbox palette of primary shades from tomato red and cobalt blue, to

emerald green and Pantone’s Colour of the Year; ultra violet. Seen on the runway at Christopher Kane, Roksanda Ilincic, Balenciaga and Marni, this is a trend that needs to be worn with confidence – be it with a dress layered over a long-sleeve top, a show-stopping pair of shoes or statement earrings. Check out Northern Woman’s ‘Crazy Brights’ shoot for inspiration (page 18).

Acceptable in the Eighties

The Eighties are back, again. An era dedicated to stylised excess and serious

Christian Dior Show, Paris Fashion Week. Getty Images

Alexis Mabille Show, Getty Images

crimes against fashion, designers have developed a soft spot for the Eighties of late and luckily it doesn’t involve leg warmers. This time round designers like Saint Laurent, Givenchy and Off-White – the latter of which was inspired by Princess Diana in her heyday – embraced the decade with everything from Working Girl-worthy prints, puff sleeve jackets, slouchy boots and boxy blouses. Acceptable then and now, wear this trend by upgrading your going-out gear with a big-shouldered mini dress for a touch of Dynasty glamour. n

Self-Portrait Show, New York Fashion Week. Getty Images

Mary Katrantzou Show, London Fashion Week. Getty Images

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nt e tem -toe a t a s ad-to g this t e k e n n Ma ith h locki vibra s, w r b nk llow n ou ; thi , ye wor l o c ing eds re, toe spr nks, r d mo ad to pi s an he e blu

Dress ÂŁ330 from Blush, Lisburn Road

Dress from Topshop Â£50

Jumper £20, Culottes £39, Coat £60, Bum Bag £20 from Urban Outfitters

T-Shirt £16 & Skirt £18 from DV8 Fashion; Bag £730 from Please Don’t Tell, Lisburn Road, Belfast; Beret £10 from H&M

Dress from Topshop Â£69

Jumper £39, Skirt £36, Bag £25 from Topshop; Trainers £300 from Please Don’t Tell, Lisburn Road, Belfast

Puffer Coat from Topshop Â£65

Jacket £45, Jeans £55, Jumper £44 from Urban Outfitters

– PHOTOGRAPHY – Brendan Gallagher 079 0063 8365 brendangallagher.net – STYLING – Niamh Cunningham 074 5394 0312 www.niamh-cunningham.com – HAIR – Grace Davison for Great Lengths 078 2157 9733 www.greatlengthshair.co.uk/salons/ gracedavisonforgreatlengths – MAKEUP – Louise Donnelly Makeup & Beauty Studio 028 2076 8118 www.facebook.com/ louisedonnellymakeupandbeauty – MODELS – Jenny Ashfield Style Academy www.styleacademy.com – LOCATION – Catchlight Studios Belfast www.catchlightstudiosni.com

Trousers £22.99, T-Shirt £22.99 from DV8 Fashion; Coat from Topshop £79

Be a team player

Be helpful to others. Do things to create a team atmosphere; organise a social, set up a charity event, or start Bake Off Friday. Highlight others’ achievements and give positive feedback. Get creative, there’s lots you can do.

Identify issues

Get a promotion Career and leadership coach, Sinead Sharkey, shares five tips to help you secure a promotion

ou’re ready for your next to do to make it happen. This will give you challenge, you’re yearning to exactly what you need; you’ll understand be recognised as the their perception of you, and what rising star and they expect of you. You can rewarded formulate a plan of action with the together, and if they prize promotion. First can’t see a promotion things first, you need happening you will to take a good hard know it’s time to move look at yourself and on. those around you and identify whether you’re Identify a business the right person to get a challenge promotion. Identify a challenge that is Sinead Sharkey Ask yourself, what have hurting your company and you achieved that sets you tell your boss that you’re going apart? What do you do day-to-day to solve it. This shows you have that others don’t do to support the team? strong business awareness, are a strategic How have you improved your organisation? thinker, and have a problem-solving Don’t despair if you realise you haven’t attitude. Of course, you have to deliver been on the right track, but it’s worth the goods too. What might you be able to recognising your campaign might take a achieve within 90 days? Go do it. little longer than you’d hoped. These tips will help you fast track your plans:

Have a one-to-one with your manager If they don’t do them, set one up. Tell your manager you want to be considered for a promotion and ask what you would need

µµIdentify a way of communicating your achievements∑∑

Identify the issues that bug your manager most and come up with solutions. How obvious is that? Yet most of us are so preoccupied in our own world that we don’t take the time to do this. Instead we rely on our internal crystal balls to try and predict what others are thinking. Instead: listen and ask. Keep your ears open for clues. And ask questions such as: ‘I was wondering, what’s giving you the biggest headache right now?’ or something similar.

Share your successes

Identify a way of communicating your achievements that doesn’t come across as brown-nosing. If you have a regular one-to-one it’s easy. If not, what’s stopping you from asking for a regular meeting? Or could you send a weekly/monthly update by email? Or identify how you can get airtime in your team meeting. Here’s a little conversational way of dropping it in: ✜ You know how… insert issue ✜ Well what I’ve done is… insert solution ✜ So that you can… insert benefit and result The simple fact is - you can wait to be noticed, or you can do the right things to get you noticed. This isn’t about just doing your job, it’s about what more can you do. If you’re already doing more, then how are you highlighting it? If you’re serious about positioning yourself for your next promotion, then check out my Personal Brand Makeover programme. I work with women who want to take their visibility to another level. If you’re ready to get noticed, be taken seriously, and take your confidence to another level then this is for you. Visit genwomen.global for information. n

Stylist, presenter, Cool FM host, blogger and NI Fitness Show host

REBECCA McKINNEY 28

Rebecca Mc Kinney and Paulo Ross from Cool FM

head of the NI Fitness Show 2018 we catch up with host Rebecca McKinney. “I will be at the NI Fitness Show hosting with Pete Snodden and Paulo Ross from the Cool FM Breakfast Show,” Rebecca replies. “I’ll be doing interviews with Results with Lucy; Lucy Mecklenburgh, and The Body Coach Joe Wicks on stage. I might even be taking part in a few bootcamps.” ‘What are you looking forward to most about the show?’ we ask. “I’m really looking forward to seeing Joe Wicks and Lucy Mecklenburgh, and having the chance to chat with them. I have met Joe before as he came in to the Cool FM studio, and I’m looking forward to meeting Lucy; I follow her on Instagram and really admire her. “I’m also looking forward to seeing people of different fitness ability levels walk in through the doors, and to getting the exercise endorphins going. The NI Fitness Show is an event not to be missed, that embodies what fitness is supposed to be about.” When asked what she admires about Lucy Mecklenburgh, Rebecca replies: “Lucy is very real. She has an unbelievable body and I’m so envious of her six pack. She has a great diet but still eats pizza and enjoys herself, she travels loads, and is very honest about how she gets her training in. She had transformed herself from being a reality TV star to an incredible business women with ‘Results with Lucy’.

Rebecca keeps fit by attending personal training sessions three to four times per week, combined with Pilates classes. “I love Reform Pilates in Belfast; it’s good for my head too and very relaxing.” Rebecca’s day job requires an early start so it’s important for the presenter to be mindful of her diet in order to maintain a fit and healthy lifestyle. “I try to be as healthy as I can be,” she says. “I am up very early; my alarm goes off at 4.30am and I always eat before 6am. I always have breakfast, a bigger meal at lunchtime and something smaller in the evening time. I do love chocolate and pizza – you have to live as well, there needs to be balance.” Northern Woman asks: ‘What would you say to readers who dislike exercise? Is it possible to learn to love it?’ “I think exercise can be intimidating. But it has become a lifestyle choice that’s fashionable now. For those who don’t like exercise, there are so many ways to drip-

µµI’m really looking forwad to seeing Joe Wicks and Lucy Mecklenburgh, and having a chance to chat with them∑∑ feed it into your lifestyle and once you start it will become part of your routine. “I’m the type of person who would be intimidated by gyms – I was that person, and now exercise is part of my routine. I am by no means a gym bunny, I’m just a normal girl who is trying to feel healthier.”

Continued on 30 ➤

The Style Edit pair: Rebecca and Stevey Lennox

µµI try to be as healthy as I can be∑∑ In addition to hosting the NI Fitness Show, Rebecca is busy planning The Style Edit; a fashion and beauty extravaganza led by Rebecca and makeup artist Stevey Lennox. The pair describe it as ‘the ultimate girls’ event with accessible fashion and beauty for all kinds of busy women who juggle busy lives, but ultimately enjoy style, makeup and a few cocktails at the weekend. The next event will take place in June – keep an eye on Northern Woman’s Social 10 pages for more information. ‘Which Spring/Summer 2018 trends have you already embraced?’ we ask. “I am loving the pastel trend,” Rebecca says. “I’m a ‘pink girl’ and I love the pink, mint and yellow colours that are in stores now. I’m also loving the resurgence of polka dots, and monochrome has always been a fashion staple in my wardrobe. I’m trying to fit these trends in despite the weather we have had lately.” Rebecca’s ‘makeup must-have’ is Make-Up Studio foundation, she says: “I

Photo team credits: Styling Rebecca McKinney; Makeup Stevey Lennox; Photography Glenn Norwood. Shot on location at Galgorm Resort & Spa, Ballymena have problematic skin. With rosacea I’m conscious of my skin looking red and angry, so my foundation is my ‘what I couldn’t live without’ product. It’s the Face It Cream Foundation from Make-Up Studio. I can buff it on and layer it up, it’s great.” Her top skincare tips are: “Always take your makeup off and use a really good cleanser. It was only after I turned thirty that I began to notice problems with my skin – a good cleanser helps. I always try to do to a day or two without heavy makeup.”

We conclude the interview by asking Rebecca to share the best piece of advice that she ever received. She replies: “It sounds cheesy – it’s from Cinderella actually: Have courage and be kind.” n

The NI Fitness Show takes place on 7th and 8th April at Titanic Exhibition Centre, Belfast. For tickets visit www.nifitnessshow.com.

PHYSIOTHERAPY

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“Yes dear?” BY EUNICE NELSON

The ill-advised things that men say and why it can turn women homicidal

ne would imagine that in all the years of human evolution, and what must amount to thousands of hours of arguments, that men would have learned what not to say to women. I know, I know, it’s stereotypical and clichéd, but things are clichés for a reason and that’s because they tend to have an element of truth. Sometimes men do ask silly questions and sometimes women overreact. Here are some of my personal favourite questions…

Is dinner ready yet?

Really? Has my time machine finally started working and transported me to the 1950s instead of into the future when the kids are in college? Now I don’t claim to be the next Nigella but I’ve managed to keep everyone alive thus far so chill out and make a sandwich. While you’re at it make me one too. None of the kids will eat the same thing at the same time so I’ve made four lunches and three dinners today already. Take pity on me and either order a pizza or enrol in a cooking class; either is good. Also don’t aggravate the person who handles your food #just saying.

Have you seen my…

Unless this sentence ends with the word ‘children’ then the answer is ‘no’. As much as I would like to spend my day roaming around the house and cataloguing each of your possessions, I’m afraid I was quite busy today. Here are some tips for a harmonious life: 1. If you left your clothes lying on the floor they’re in the wash. 2. If you can’t find your wallet I’ve already emptied it and left it on the table (you’re welcome). 3. If you annoyed me last night anything you may be looking for is in the wheelie bin.

What’s wrong with the kids?

Let me just dust off my X-ray specs and check what the kids are crying about while I’m in the bathroom. Alternatively you can feel free to put down the phone and

check on your progeny yourself. I’m in the bathroom for a reason (ok, ok sometimes I’m just hiding), so unless something or someone is on fire then deal with it yourself. I know that I might be the all singing, all dancing domestic goddess the majority of the time but even a goddess needs to pee in peace.

What did you get my mother for her birthday?

Stop right there man child. As far as I can remember I did not emerge into this world from your mother’s birth canal. Therefore I feel that this particular task should fall in

µµNavigating your way through a relationship can be like going through a maze blindfolded, tied up and being chased by lions∑∑

My advice: When you step through the door at the end of your day keep your gaze at eye level and completely ignore the state of the house and/or children. If the place looks like it’s been looted by the neighbours then one of two things have taken place. Either I’ve gotten in the door about ten minutes in front of you or I’ve been at home with your children all day and I’m in a corner of the kitchen rocking back and forth and muttering to myself. If you encounter this situation in the future the correct greeting is: “Why don’t you have a nice bath and I’ll make dinner, and don’t you look thin today”.

What’s your problem?

the realm of your responsibility. Since you have known your mother all your life I feel that you are best placed to know what she may like for her birthday. If in doubt ask a female relative what she would like and while you’re at it ask what age she is and what date her birthday actually is because I know that you don’t know.

A few of the lads are…

Let me save you some time here darling. This will not end well for you unless “a few of the lads” have decided to buy their wives spa vouchers and you have decided to join them. Golfing weekend, skiing or going out

on the lash are not acceptable ways to end this particular sentence. It’s not that I don’t want you to go out and have a laugh with your friends, I just don’t want resentment to build and ruin our wonderful marriage. Also if you had too much fun now then how would you appreciate the wonderful memories from your pre-kids, pre-marriage life - now that really would be a tragedy.

What have you been doing all day?

‘Oh you know, doing my nails, doing my hair, doing the next door neighbour, take your pick’ I reply in my inner voice.

Run. Get to high ground and look for shelter because the woman in your life is about to reach for the nearest blunt object and inflict serious pain on you. Let’s face it, if you have to ask what her problem is then the answer is probably you. Questions like: “Is it your time of the month?” will not be received well so save your breath for the apology. If it looks like it’s too late for rational conversation just throw your credit card at her while you’re looking for the nearest exit. I hope this has been helpful. Navigating your way through a relationship can be like going through a maze blindfolded, tied up and being chased by lions. You have no idea where you’re going, how you’re going to get there and more often than not you feel like you’ll be swallowed whole by all the drama. Us ladies aren’t really all that complicated and while men feel that they need to be mind readers to cope with us I’m glad they’re not. Being inside my head would scare the crap out of any man. n

10 The

‘agonising’ stages of an online grocery shopping delivery BY CLARE BOWIE

Couldn’t be easier, just chuck a few items in your cyber basket and off you go. If only you could get past the password stage and no, I don’t want the two for one. Where’s the green tick? Did it work? Have I signed out?

Oh the spelling errors… stop judging me because I can’t spell mozzarella properly. Google would have helped me out with this but you just stare at me blankly. ‘Your search item could not be found’ – not even a suggestion for crying out loud! #smug

So many questions! Plastic bags? Special offers? What time? Which type of our 252 varieties of sausages exactly would you like?

Ugh, why didn’t I just get off the couch and pop to the shops myself.

Stop stalking me. I really don’t need a new email every time I add a red pepper to the list and stop making suggestions about what to buy, you don’t know me, stop trying to fit me into one of your marketing niches. I am unique, ok? Also, I know you’re coming between 4pm and 5pm so just back off with the emails.

I suppose I’ll have to tidy the house before you come. You already know I can’t be bothered to go to the shops, I don’t want you thinking I can’t be bothered cleaning my house either. I’m just really busy you know and those trolleys are

heavy; plus, finding £1 trolley coins can be very challenging; it’s very cold by the fridge section; and then there’s always people at the supermarket.

Ding dong: Here you are. Cue: awkward exchanges and prolonged silences, interspersed with chats about the weather. Ok, thanks very much, bye then, cheers, thanks, all the best, see you later.

7 8

I thought I ordered a decent sized tub of icecream for my family not a family of birds on a diet. It looked so different on the website. #sob Err, why have you substituted kitchen roll with mini rolls? They are clearly not the same thing. Now I am going to have to go to the shops and get kitchen roll myself. Why is life so hard?

So instead of ciabatta bread rolls you have brought precisely nothing? In the whole shop you couldn’t think of a single thing that might pass for a bread roll? You have 252 sausages (I went for ‘British Traditionally made pork, caramelised onion and apple sausages’ in case you were wondering) and not a single roll to put them in. Nobody wants a naked hotdog! *Eyeroll*

What? I’m supposed to put it all away now? There must be a website for this. n

BEAUTY 35

SET THE EYE

One of the most important steps of doing eye makeup in my opinion is to set your eyelid. A lot of us reach for concealer to do this to colour correct the lid but this often gets oily and mixes into the eyeshadow creating creases. Using MAC’s Painterly Paint Pot helps to correct the eyelid as well as keeping shadow on all day. I adore this stuff. Paint Pot in Painterly by MAC £15.50

GET THOSE BROWS ON

The quickest way to get definition on the face? Fill in those brows! I love this Benefit Ka Brow brow gel and wear shade 3. I apply this with a thin angle brush which is really important to get it on easily. Gels like these hold really well in the eyebrow and give a lovely sleek finish. Ka Brow from Benefit £22

SHADE THE LID

One of the quickest things I do for a day or nighttime look is to double up on my bronzer that I use to shade my cheekbones as eyeshadow. It’s a nice neutral shade that works well with every eye colour and saves time in the process too. I blend this all over my brow bone using a fluffy brush.

SMOKEY

EYE IN MINUTES Celebrity makeup artist Aimee Connolly explains how to mask imperfections

A lot of the time we’re in a rush doing our makeup and sometimes we just need to get it on quick. If you’re someone that wants a hassle-free smokey eye, well then stay tuned for this look… For more from Aimee visit: www.instagram.com/aimeeconnolly_com or www.facebook.com/AimeeConnollyMU

Sculpted by Aimee Connolly £22

BRONZE IT UP

If you want to look sultry, quickly take a mediumtoned colour like this bronze shade all over the lid. I also brought this under the eye to shade the lower lash line. This means when the eye is open everyone sees a slight smokey finish which helps to frame the eye. Bronze Shadow from MAC £15

LINE THE LASHES

Rather than just stopping with some shadow and mascara I think it’s really important to pop some definition into the lash line. I always use Rimmel kohl pencils because they smoke the eyes out so quickly. I blend this into the upper lash line - not too thick - and then you can smudge it out or leave it be, either way it really completes the look. Scanadaleyes Waterproof Kohl Kajal from Rimmel £3.49

EYE EYE

Prepare for lash lift out with the latest mascara offering from Benefit. Its brand new BADgal BANG! mascara promises massive volume without weighing down lashes. It’s smudge-proof, water-resistant, and the custom brush is streamlined to reach root-to-tip, corner-to-corner, upper and lower lashes for extreme volume that lasts up to 36 hours.

BADgal BANG! volumising mascara from Benefit £20.50

TAN-TASTIC

No time to tan? Take the hassle out with St Tropez’s new One Minute Everyday Pre Shower Tanning Mousse. Just apply directly to dry skin - there’s no guide colour but a subtle sheen means it is easy to ensure no areas are missed - wait one minute (or two for a deeper tan), then shower as normal. The colour will develop over the next eight hours and can be reapplied after three days. One Minute Everyday Pre Shower Tanning Mousse from St Tropez £14.50

THE BEAUTY EDIT BY CLAIRE CRAIG

The latest makeup bag and skincare must-haves MIAMI VICE

COLOUR CODED

Available in eight shades and formatted to tackle every possible skin tone concern from dark spots, to sallowness and redness, Estée Lauder’s new Double Wear Custom Coverage Correcting Duos have a light coverage formula on one end and a full coverage, hydrating concentrate on the other to allow for a customised application of texture and coverage level.

Turn up the heat with these two limited edition summer fragrances by KILIAN. Inspired by the sun, sin and style of Miami, Love the Way You Feel and Love the Way You Taste both come in an Art Deco inspired graphic bottle – meant to capture Miami’s wild mix of Miami Vice collection contemporary art and street from KILLIAN £185 for a 50ml refillable bottle culture.

PRETTY PALETTES

Soleil Eye & Cheek Palette, Soleil D’Ambre from Tom Ford £98

The ultimate accessory – this reflective ivory and goldcoloured clutch from Tom Ford contains a colour palette for eyes and cheeks to create an array of luxurious looks. Each features four eye shadows, a highlighter and a blush for sultry, bronzed warmth.

BB Drops From Erborian £32

CUSTOMISE YOUR COMPLEXION

We’re a fan of anything that saves us time in the morning and with these BB Drops from Korean skincare brand, Erborian, you simply mix a few drops in with your favourite daily skincare product and you’re ready to go. Packed with Ginseng, known for its smoothing and moisturising properties, it immediately leaves skin looking smoother.

HAIR CARE Double Wear Custom Coverage Correcting Duos from Estée Lauder £24

HEAVY METAL

M.A.C relaunches a twist on its classic Retro Matte Liquid Lipcolour with a full lineup of 15 saturated molten shades. Featuring a mix of warm neutrals and boldly brights, all have a metalised hue and a liquid-suede finish - guaranteed to get you noticed. Retro Matte Liquid Lipcolour Metallics from M.A.C £17.50

You may have heard that in-salon professional hair colour contains ‘Bonds’ or ‘Plex’ which act to strengthen the hair. Now thanks to Schwarzkopf you can now avail of professional antibreakage technology from the comfort of your own home. Color Expert OMEGAPLEX® protects OMEGAPLEX from and reinforces the microSchwarzkopf £6.79 bonds while delivering amazing colour (microbonds hold hair fibres together and give your hair strength and structure).

HAIR DYE

HORROR When journalist Jade Beecroft went for a routine hair colour, she never imagined it would end in disaster…

When my head started to itch the ike many women, I’ve been following day, I didn’t think much of it. But colouring my hair since when the itching turned to burning by Day discovering that trusty teenage Two, I became mildly concerned (still only favourite Sun-In when I was 15. mildly concerned… you’ll note). I messaged It turned my locks a dubious my stylist and she suggested I pop in for shade of orange (come on, a hair wash and soothing scalp we’ve all been there!), but I was still treatment, just in case some of hooked. the dye had been left on my Twenty years later, I skin. couldn’t actually tell you By Day Three, I was in a what my natural shade is. world of unhappiness. My Probably mousy, most likely head felt like it’d been stuck with the odd grey now I’m in a wasps’ nest, and my on the wrong side of 35. face was starting to swell. The point is, I’ve been Before My unsympathetic boyfriend merrily messing with dye since told me I looked like an angry time immemorial, heading to Klingon. the hairdressers every 6-8 weeks for But the rash of angry blisters forming highlights, lowlights, full heads, half-heads, along my hairline and along my neck was and even the odd streak of pink. no joke – and as the swelling started to Never, in 20 years of experimentation move down my forehead and across (both professional, and in the the sides of my face we dialed bathroom at home), have I ever the out-of-hours doctor. done a patch test. After all, It took two courses of patch tests are for newbies… steroids, several doctors’ not old hands… right? visits and multiple So when I went to my antihistamines to bring hairdresser last August and my allergic reaction under asked for my usual mixture control, and I sailed pretty of browns and blondes, I & after close to an admission to A&E. anticipated nothing more than I spent the following two weeks a fab new do. And it certainly feeling groggy, sore, cloudy-headed looked lovely; I walked out of the and poorly. salon swishing my blow-dry and snatching My GP referred me to the dermatology appreciative glances in every mirror. Vain… unit at Belfast’s Royal Victoria Hospital and moi?

banned me from colouring my hair until I’d had further tests. After a five-month wait (yes, the NHS is overstretched and could probably do without being bothered by the likes of me), I finally underwent patch testing at the end of January. For those who’ve never had medical allergy patch tests, you really wouldn’t wish it on your worst enemy. Dozens of chemicals and allergens are dotted across your back, covered with tape, and then you’re sent away for 48 hours to let the whole thing fester. And fester it did. You’re not allowed to shower, and by the second evening the burning and itching had reached such a crescendo that I tossed and turned all night, torturing myself with lurid dreams of clawing at the tapes or finding a huge tree and raking myself against it like a bear. The tape was by far the worst part – indescribably irritating – and when the nurse finally pulled it all off I was laughing with relief. Beneath it was a colony of angry red sores. Not only was I allergic to the most common type of hair-dying chemical PPD, which they’d expected, but I’d also reacted to a dozen more. Apparently you can start with allergies at any time, new allergies can be triggered by a single reaction, and you should never be complacent just because you’ve used a product (such as hair dye) before. In my case, the doctor explained that the fact I’d been dying my hair for so many years – rather than making me safe – could even have been a contributing factor. So I’m now I have contact allergies to more that a dozen chemicals, and any kind of hair dying is out of the question. For good. Whatever my natural hair colour is… I guess I’m about to embrace it. So campers, when you pick up that box of hair dye, and read the label, don’t ignore that little warning to ALWAYS DO A PATCH TEST. n

HOW TO PATCH TEST: • NHS Choices advises that you always carry out a patch test before using hair dye, even if you’re using your regular brand. • Patch testing involves putting a small dab of the dye behind you ear or inside your elbow and leaving it to dry. • You should allow it to to sit for at least 48 hours, as some reactions take several days to develop. • If any swelling, itchiness or redness occurs, you could be allergic to the product. • If you’ve booked an appointment at a salon, call in 48 hours in advance and ask for a patch test. Your beautician should also offer you a test before eyebrow tinting.

217S Blending brush by MAC £21

Blending Eyeshadow Brush by Nanshy from beautybay.com £5.95

Angle Liner P410 by Powder ‘n’ Pout £7.16

Hero Brush by Ciara Daly £25

Makeup by Catriona Doherty. Photo by Glenn Norwood at Ciara Daly Makup, Belfast

BRUSH UP

toolkit

MUA Essentials every girl needs in her makeup bag BY CATRIONA DOHERTY

Having just completed a six-week makeup artistry training course (the Ciara Daly Foundation Course) in my free time, I have developed not only a new skillset but also an obsession/love for makeup. Based on my training and previous experience reviewing products over the years, here are my top picks of what I think every girl should have in her kit.

It goes without saying that you really do need good quality brushes for flawless makeup application. On the first day of my makeup course I bought the 20-piece Ciara Daly Chaos Collection, which costs £99 and is well worth investing in if you are serious about makeup as it has every brush you need. Other favourites include the MAC 217S Blending brush for applying and blending out eyeshadow. I bought this brush so many years ago that the MAC logo has worn off, but it still blends as well as when I first bought it. An alternative is the Nanshy Blending Eyeshadow Brush which costs only £5.95. It seamlessly applies and smooths out eyeshadow perfectly. The Angle Liner P410 by Powder ‘n’ Pout is fantastic for filling brows as it’s just the right width and the bristles are fairly sturdy which facilitates precise application. I bought mine for €8 in McFadden’s Pharmacy, Letterkenny Shopping Centre, however they are widely available across Northern Ireland. Visit www.powdernpout.com for a list of stockists. I also love the Ciara Daly Hero Brush. I really don’t like to see any sign of a ‘foundation line’ between the jawbone and neck where the product has not been blended properly; the Hero Brush prevents this from happening.

False Lash Effect Fusion Mascara by Max Factor £10.99

Quick Fix Hydra-Charged Complexion Prep Priming Spray by Urban Decay £23.50 All Nighter Setting Spray by Urban Decay £24

PRIME AND SET

Aqua Beauty Infused Bronzer & Blush Palette Peach by e.l.f £7.50

Lash Impact Ultra by No7 £14

I’m a huge fan of Urban Decay’s priming and setting sprays. In the past my makeup didn’t seem to last all day. Incorporating a quality primer and setting spray in to my makeup routine has a made a huge difference. I like the idea of applying primer with a quick spritz – every second counts if you are not a morning person! Wake Me Up Concealer by Rimmel £6.45

Face Sculptor by IsaDora £21.95

BRONZE & BLUSH

I use the e.l.f blush-and-bronzer duo pretty much every day. I love the matte finish that has a slight gleam, and the fact that the product is multipurpose; the bronze powder can be used as a blush or contour along the cheekbones and jawline. The IsaDora Face Sculptor is a fantastic contouring palette that has great longevity; I use this regularly yet is still looks like new. I like the convenience of this palette as it contains a blusher, bronzer and highlight in one.

Select Cover-Up by MAC £16.50

False Lash Effect Mascara by Max Factor £10.99 Voluptuous Mascara by Max Factor £11.99

CAMOUFLAGE

MASCARA A group of work colleagues and I reviewed a variety of mascaras for an article. The Max Factor False Lash Effect range came out on top. The False Lash Effect, Fusion and Voluptuous mascaras last all day and don’t flake. Another durable mascara that doesn’t flake, is the No7 Lash Impact Ultra from Boots.

Magic Foundation by Charlotte Tilbury £32

I didn’t use concealer until I began the makeup course and saw how effectively it banished undereye circles. One of the concealers recommended was the Wake Me Up by Rimmel; I now use this product daily. Where more comprehensive coverage is required, or to create cut crease eyeshadow, the instructor recommended using the Kevyn Aucoin concealer pots (they sell for £39 on Space NK, and £39 on Cult Beauty online). I find the Select CoverUp from Mac is another great option.

Duraline by Inglot £10

LMD Master Palette by BPerfect £24.99

MAGIC FOUNDATION

I have finally found the one! Charlotte Tilbury’s Magic Foundation is the foundation for me. At 35 years young, I have developed some fine lines around my eyes which some foundations seem to ‘sit in’. That’s not the case with Charlotte Tilbury’s lightweight Magic. The finish is flawless with a slight glow that I love. I bought this product from the Charlotte Tilbury counter at House of Fraser, Victoria Square, Belfast.

EYESHADOW The BPerfect LMD Master Palette was created by one of Northern Ireland’s top makeup artists; Louise McDonnell. What I love about this palette is how well the colours blend and the range of colours. I have created a few different smokey eye looks using the pink tones, orange shades, or dark browns depending on my mood. Colours ‘Peachy’ and ‘Sculpt’ can be used for contouring, bronzing or eyeshadow, and ‘Beam’ is a gorgeous inner-eye highlighter.

TOP TIP

Duraline is a clear liquid that can revive any driedout product and bring it back to life. My eyeliner gel pot had dried up over time and a few drops of this revived it. You simply disperse a drop or two and swirl it around until the hard powder/gel turns into an easy-to-apply liquid. Duraline can also be used to intensify the colour of any powder, and to turn eyeshadow into eyeliner.

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Dry skin SOS I Expert-approved ways to banish dry skin BY ALICE HOWARTH

n a quest to find out the best ways to quench dry skin once and for all, we spoke to Elemis co-founder, Noella Gabriel. Below, she reveals her expert tips for getting that everelusive glow that won’t disappear as soon as you step outside.

Drink water

It may sounds obvious but often people don’t consider the benefits that drinking water can have for their skin. Our bodies are made up of 64 percent water, and if you’re dehydrated it will show on your skin. Aim to drink the recommended two litres of water a day and it’s likely you’ll see a change in your skin’s texture and complexion within a week. Not only does water help to naturally plump the skin and encourage the production of collagen – a protein in the body which helps to structure your skin – it also helps to flush out any nasty toxins that could lead to congestion.

Have a warm shower

unnatural and can destroy the skin’s natural microflora and acid mantle; the skin’s environment, natural protective film and pH balance. If the skin comes into contact with this alcohol and preservatives it will become problematic with dehydration or breakouts.”

To exfoliate or not to exfoliate?

It’s sometimes difficult to know what’s good for your skin and what’s not when so many different beauty brands are advising different things. The best advice is to select a less-abrasive exfoliator. Look out for soothing ingredients in products like rose and non-fragrant plant oils, such as borage seed oil, argan oil, evening primrose oil, sunflower seed oil, and cranberry seed oil.

Prime

If you have a steaming hot bath or shower it’s likely your skin will suffer. To avoid stripping your skin of much-needed natural oils, opt for a warm temperature instead.

Foundations and concealers may be great for covering imperfections but typically they’re not hydrating. The best way to solve it? Invest in a primer.

Makeup wipes are a no-no

Overnight renewal

Ditch the makeup wipes. Ideally it’s best to remove makeup with a deep cleanse but if you need something as instant and easy as a makeup wipe due to lack of time, a micellar water is a great option. It will remove makeup, benefit the skin and it doesn’t add any effort. All you need is a cotton pad and a little product. “Make-up wipes typically contain a lot of alcohol and preservatives to keep the wipe itself moist”, says Gabriel. “This is

Getting a proper night’s sleep will certainly help your skin but you still need to take care of it at night. “Sleep is when the skin empties out and replenishes”, says Gabriel. “Skin renewal peaks between 11 pm and 3am. While the skin is resting, we have maximum skin cell respiration which makes night time a key time for skin renewal”. But, despite this, it can appear more dehydrated and distressed on waking

because everyone loses water (aka hydration levels) when they’re sleeping. “Using an overnight product that counteracts this such as an night oil or moisturiser, is hugely beneficial”, advises Gabriel. “It’s important to use a vitaminpacked product to coincide with these hours as night creams are designed to replenish, nourish and top up skin with any vitamins lost during the day”.

Use SPF daily

Ask any dermatologist and they will tell you that using SPF is one of – if not – the best way to protect your skin and stop it from premature ageing. Sun exposure not only causes premature fine lines and pigmentation, it actively dehydrates and dries out the skin. Wear a minimum of factor 30 every single day come rain or shine. Just because you can’t see the sun, it doesn’t mean UV rays aren’t causing damage.

Moisturising

When your skin is tight and dull, it’s so tempting to shove on the richest cream you can find but that might not actually help. When selecting your product, go to your local beauty store and ask for a consultation with a specialist who will be able to find a cream that will actively target the dryness of your skin. Do also ask for samples of products that you think might work before purchasing. Try them for a couple of weeks and note what effects they have on the skin before buying. n

Marc Jacobs Christophe Guillarme Show, Paris Fashion Week. Getty Images

Jean-Paul Gaultier SS 2018, Paris Fashion Week. Getty Images

Trending – beauty looks hot off the runway ALL EYES ON

All eyes were on the Jean-Paul Gaultier models at the Paris Fashion Week Summer 2018 show. The models showcased graphic eyeliner looks inspired by the Swinging Sixties. Whereas Marc Jacobs opted for a more mainstream feline flick with lashings of kohl.

COLOUR ME BEAUTIFUL The vibrant shades showcase in Spring/ Summer 2018 fashion collections extended to the models’ makeup too. Think orange, pink and purple – worn together on one eyelid.

BARELY THERE BROW

In sharp contrast to last season’s defined brows, some new season looks feature a barely there, bleached blonde brow. While the look is certainly low maintenance, we’re not sure if we are ready to say bye to our eyebrows!

GLITTER LIPS

You have probably heard that ‘glitter is not just for Christmas’ as sparkle and sequins made their way into many Spring/Summer collections. We love this look from French designer Christophe Guillarme; red lippy paired with glitter flecks. n

A Détacher Show, New York Fashion Week. Getty Images Calvin Luo Show. New York Fashion Week. Getty Images

HEALTH WELLNESS

Tried & Tested

PROFILE:

Colonic Hydrotherapy This month Ciara Hedgcock reviews colonic hydrotherapy

The colon is alternatively filled with his month I reviewed colonic water and released for loose debris to be hydrotherapy, carried out allowed to flow out. This process is carried by Susan Magee; owner of out throughout the treatment, which lasts Synergy Holistic in Belfast. from 30 to 45 minutes. The result Susan specialises in is a gentle flushing of the digestive health colon, and a loosening and issues and is a qualified, removal of old faecal insured and registered debris. colon hydrotherapist Modern day lifestyle (Global Professional and diet has led to Association for Colon many of us having Therapy certified). problems with our Colonic bowels. Colonic hydrotherapy is an irrigation effectively internal bath, which cleanses years of excess allows warm filtered waste, pollutants and water into the colon toxic substances. This through a small device process can also help called a speculum. The Susan Magee rebalance the bowel flora by speculum makes it possible to facilitating re-population of the simultaneously bring clean water stock of friendly bacteria. n into the colon and carry waste out.

I was nervous about my first colonic hydrotherapy treatment but curious to see if I would experience any positive results. On arrival, I was given a detailed personal health questionnaire to complete and I read over colonic hydrotherapy information pages. I waited in reception with a glass of water while Susan read my answers, before joining her in the treatment room for a consultation. We had a very detailed discussion about my diet and lifestyle, with Susan offering welcome advice, suggestions and reminders about how our digestive system works. Any nerves were quashed as I prepared for my colonic. Susan is very calming and extremely professional. A comfortable robe and fluffy towel kept everything discreet and dignified. The colonic was painless, I just had to remind myself to relax while listening to Susan’s careful description of what to expect. It was exactly how she explained and surprisingly easy to relax after a short while; it always helps to have a sense of humour in these situations! I felt dull cramps as the water pressure was being increased, as instructed I told Susan when I felt I had reached my max and she released the pressure. Afterwards I felt noticeably better than I had on arrival, I felt relaxed but energised, and lighter. Susan gave me some aftercare information sheets and recommended I take a short course of probiotics. As advised I prepared a light meal and drank lots of water at home. After eating my stomach felt a little uncomfortable but it did not prevent me from sleeping. The following morning I felt very well and continued to do so throughout the day. While I have some good habits, I felt the experience was a great opportunity to improve others and to make more effort to vary my breakfast and lunch choices to aid my digestion, bowel and colon health. I was definitely not the most extreme case Susan has seen, but my treatment was a reminder that even if you are lucky not to have serious problems your health maintenance is something to review on a regular basis. For more information visit www.synergyholistic.co.uk or call 028 90 709300. A colonic hydrotherapy treatment is £65 for your first 90-minute appointment; all following treatments are priced at £58 and last 60 minutes. There is also a course of three treatments for £158.

Work at

IT How to stay motivated to work out when it’s cold outside BY BEN WHITE

Keep your feet snug

“During bad weather our extremities, such as our feet tend to suffer the most from the cold,” says Carnation Footcare Podiatrist, Michael Ratcliffe. “It’s really important to keep your feet well insulated during this time. Unfortunately, woolly socks may keep our feet warm, but they tend to make our feet sweat more so look for different materials that will regulate your foot temperature instead.”

Ease your muscle pain

Cold weather can make your joints stiff and your muscles ache. Protein helps to repair muscle tissues and maintain strong bones. To help boost your protein intake, try a post-run smoothie with a spoonful of protein powder.

Swap your run for a fitness class

If you don’t feel like running in the cold weather, mix up your routine and try a fitness class at your local gym or community centre instead.

Up your omega intake

Cold weather can cause your joints to be stiffer than usual and your muscles to be tighter than normal. The omega-3 fatty acids are important for tissue elasticity, muscle flexibility, joint motion and regulating inflammatory response. Ensure you are including good fats in your diet such as salmon, avocado and dark green leafy vegetables.

Eat every three hours

“Try to keep your blood sugar and energy levels stable by eating regularly,” says leading nutritionist Dr Marilyn Glenville. “Eat breakfast, lunch and dinner plus a snack mid-morning and one mid-afternoon, with no longer than three hours between.

I’d also suggest that you should try not to eat carbohydrates after 6pm.”

Work out with friends or join an online community

Cold weather can definitely knock your motivation down but falling out of your exercise regime can dampen your motivation even further. Why not try working out with friends or joining an online community for that added motivational support? Being with others who are going through the same journey helps keep you motivated and accountable. “If it’s not possible to exercise with friends directly, then try an online workout programme that has a Facebook or similar group you can join so you can share your progress and challenges with others,” suggests nutritionist and fitness instructor Cassandra Barns.

Layer up

Ensure you dress in comfortable layers,

which you can take off once you start to warm up your body. “Loose layers trap body heat and help to warm up your joints” Cassandra says. “Be careful not to overdress though, as once you warm up if you have too many layers on, you can become overheated.”

Keep your energy levels up

The cold weather and lack of sunshine can often leave us feeling tired and unmotivated. So, ensure you are eating a balanced, healthy diet in order to provide your body with the correct nutrients it needs to perform. “This includes fresh vegetables and fruit, fresh or tinned fish, free-range eggs, unprocessed meats, unroasted nuts and seeds, whole grains such as oats and brown rice, beans and pulses and, for most people, natural dairy products. It means limiting your intake of high-sugar foods, refined foods and most things that come in a packet with a long list of ingredients,” suggests Cassandra. n

10 ways to decide the life you want – and how to make it happen BY MARK RHODES

rom deciding on how you would like your life to be at a certain point in the future, to making that dream a reality – here are Mark Rhodes’ 10 steps to follow to take control of your destiny. Entrepreneur, mentor and international speaker, Mark is the author of How to Talk to Absolutely Anyone: Confident Communication for Work, Life and Relationships’.

01 Decide what you want

Sounds simple enough. The important thing though is to have a vision for all areas of your life, so it stays in balance. This helps avoid all work and no play, or all play and no work. The way to do this is to sit down with a piece of paper and a pen, and say to yourself: “I wake up on a Monday morning two years from now and everything in my life is perfect. What does my life look like?” You then write about every aspect of your life: work, business, finances, family, friends, possessions, etc. If you don’t feel comfortable with two years, change it to three or something else. Note – this isn’t saying ‘do you think you can achieve this?’ Write out how you truly want all areas of your life to be, without leaving things out due to doubts about your ability.

02 Write it out as if you’ve got it already

Now rewrite the visions from point one, making sure it is all in the present tense: ‘I have, we have, we are’, etc. Those should be the way each statement starts, not: ‘I want, I

need, I hope’… that’s not the way to do this. Write it out as if you are living that life now.

03 Read the vision a few times a day and feel what you would feel like when you are actually living that life

This is important. Our minds only show us things and give us ideas about things that it believes are relevant to us. For most of us the things we “want” are not relevant to us from our powerful subconscious mind. The things we have though are very relevant. For example, when most of us want a new car, say a specific model and colour, we rarely, if ever, see them on the road. As soon as we get one though, we see them everywhere! So, has the universe put lots more out there overnight just to frustrate you? No, they were always around, you just didn’t notice them because your mind didn’t think it was relevant enough to distract your thought patterns from everyday thoughts.

µµDon’t take advice from those less successful than you∑∑ The only thing that has changed from when you didn’t see the cars to seeing them, is you went from wanting one to having one! This is why in point two we have to write our visions out as if we have achieved them already, and feel like that in point three – then our minds will start to give us ideas or we will spot things that can help us lead to the goals we desire. You don’t need to know how you will achieve these goals; the ‘how’ ideas will come too. The key is to keep thinking about the visions a few times a day, every day, and feel

put a due date and details of the actions you need to take. It’s a good idea to put the actions needed in your calendar so you have time allocated to them.

07 Why are you hesitating?

If you hesitate to take one of your actions because you find yourself saying something like: “I can’t do xxxx”, remember to change that statement to: “I won’t do xxx because”, and list all the reasons why that is. This gives you a list of things you need to learn or explore deeper. For example – say one of my actions is: Phone company x and find out about y. I then catch myself saying: “I can’t phone them up and ask that”. Then I turn it around and say to myself: “I won’t phone company x and ask about y because”. Then things come to mind like: “I won’t know what to say”, or: “They may not want to help me”, for example. This is now a list of things to go and solve. Search online or read books to develop the skills or confidence you need to take those actions.

08 If something doesn’t work out, don’t give up

good about it; keep doing it daily and in days, weeks or months, things will start to change as your mind notices and alerts you to solutions and opportunities that align with your visions.

04 Don’t take advice from those less successful than you or with lower ambitions than you

This sounds harsh I know, but so many times I see this happen. Someone comes up with an idea or goal for their future and they tell their family and friends. These family members and friends often say things like: “Are you sure you want to take on all that extra work or responsibility or risk?”, or: “You know you’ll only be disappointed if it doesn’t work out”. These people often care about us and that’s why they are being protective but it can easily put us off going for what we really want. Some years back I decided I wanted to

become an author and be signed by a top publishing house. Most people I told about this goal said it would never happen. They went on to explain how many manuscripts are sent in and how few are chosen. The thing is none of these people giving me this advice were published authors.

05 When ideas come up of what actions are needed – write them down As mentioned earlier, once you start thinking about your vision and goals on a daily basis and feel good about them, ideas will come up of what needs to be done or could be done. When those ideas come up, you need to write them down on your to do list.

06 Make an action plan and take action

For most people, things only get done when they make a to-do list and take action on it. So, take your list made in point five and

Get curious about the outcome and think about what else could make it work. Don’t give up. Find another way. Most success comes after many apparent failures. In most instances failure isn’t failure, it is just an unexpected result. Failure is often in our control and we only give up when we stop going for what we want, any disappointments along the way are unexpected results to be analysed and our method changed to go at it again.

09 If anything negative happens, respond rather than react or overreact – step away from the emotion and think logical When most people hit a problem, they panic and start saying: “This will never work, it’s all gone wrong”. Successful people stay calm, they step back from the situation and say things like: “OK, what could make this work?”, or: “What could I do to improve this?”. Ideas then come up – maybe in a few minutes, maybe a few days.

10 Celebrate each mini goal

Keep at it and remember to celebrate every step or mini-goal achieved along the way to obtaining your ultimate vision, and once you are living that vision you created in step one, it is time to set your next goal. n

WOMEN INSPIRING Women Here at Northern Woman we love hearing from inspiring local women. This month we meet an award-winning mentor, a mental health advocate, and a leading nutritional therapist BY ELIZABETH MOORE AMANDA RAFFERTY

Confidence coach, award-winning inspirational mentor, blogger, and founder of Inspire by Amanda R From: Originally from Warrenpoint and I live just outside Newry Age: I am hanging on tightly to my 43rd year… I will be 44 in April

What type of issues do you think women, in particular, struggle with most?

Over my years within the coaching world there are a few recurring struggles; worrying what other people think of them, fear of stepping outside their comfort zone, feeling they are not good enough, and low

self-esteem, to name but a few. However, the main struggle is a lack of confidence.

What do you believe is important when it comes to healthy living?

Now I will not lie – I admit I am not one of the healthiest people. But whether it is to do with your body or mind, make sure you have balance – this is key. Everyone needs an ‘off day’ to kick back and not worry how many calories were consumed that day.

Do you feel you are inspiring others?

I do receive some lovely messages telling me I am, which always puts an extra spring in my step. Message from women who; feel inspired to start that night class,

take ‘me time’ without having the guilt attached, have a change in career, believe in themselves more, and finally realise they deserve to live a happy and confident life.

How do you cope with stress?

Back in the day I would have become stressed very quickly and very easily, especially over silly things but after my close call with him upstairs a few years ago, I prioritise more now about what matters and what doesn’t. Personal development work definitely helps with this also. One of the smallest and most difficult words to say is ‘no’. As women we feel we should be able to manage it all but this in turn leads you become overwhelmed and burnt out – this

JANE McCLENAGHAN business Inspire by Amanda R about a year and half ago, focusing on the area of confidence. As I mentioned earlier, confidence is key to everything else and the foundation on which to build.

Do you have any upcoming projects lined up?

I am continuing with my workshops, oneto-ones and online mentoring, and I have recently added ‘confidence coaching within the workplace’ to my services.

Do you feel social media is the most effective way to inspire, influence and communicate with others?

is a huge contributor to stress. Remember ladies; you are allowed to say ‘no’.

How did you get involved with life coaching?

I became a style coach seven years ago which was a combination of a personal stylist and a life coach. I loved the fashion end of it but felt the coaching was where I thrived most. I set up my online coaching

Social media most definitely has its advantages. However, at times it can have the opposite effect, especially when people post filtered images of their lives. If your confidence or self-worth is low then the need to compare can kick in, whereby you feel that everyone else has their lives sorted except you. I always remind the ladies I work with, people only put up what they want you to see, so try and take what you see and read at face value. Instead of wasting precious energy looking at Instaperfect lives, focus on your own life and what you can do to help you feel happier, fulfilled and bursting with confidence.

Qualified in food science and nutritional therapy, founder of Vital Nutrition, and author of The Vital Nutrition Cookbook From: Originally from Eglinton, now living in Belfast Age: 45

What type of issues do you think women, in particular, struggle with the most? I had a chat with a few of my girlfriends about this. They all had the same reply; an overwhelming feeling of trying to keep all the plates spinning at work and at home. It seems that whether we have kids or not, most women are carers and tend to put everyone else’s needs first and feel guilty as hell when we don’t. This can have an obvious impact on the food we eat, whether we have time to fit in exercise and the time we allow ourselves to relax and chill out. Perhaps a good lesson for all of us is that, from time to time, it is ok to say ‘no’ to things we don’t have time to do, or simply don’t want to do and focus on a little bit of self-care. As one friend put it: ‘You can’t pour from an empty cup’, so everyone can benefit if we look after ourselves.

Continued on 52 ➤

What do you believe is most important when it comes to healthy living?

First of all - keep it real! We don’t have to be perfect; who doesn’t love a glass of wine or a bar of chocolate every now and then? As long as we eat well most of the time, then who cares about the occasional treat. I practice the 80:20 rule with a lot of things in life and especially healthy food. Sometimes we set the bar too high and then get annoyed at ourselves for being human. Secondly, preparation is the best way to make healthy choices most of the time. Check your cupboards, see what’s there, make a shopping list and stick to it. I am a big fan of batch cooking. When I cook I tend to make extra for lunch the next day, or dinner another night. Most of us are busy, so I find this is an easy way to eat well during a working week.

Do you feel you are inspiring others?

I really hope so. I do my best to help people to realise that healthy eating is not as hard as it looks. It is the small changes that

we make and stick to every day that have the big effects on our long-term health, not the crazy fad diets or get slim quick plans. That’s why I wanted to use real life experiences when I was writing my book Vital Nutrition – How to eat for optimum health, happiness and energy.

How do you cope with stress?

I run. For me, exercise is my best form of stress relief. Whether it’s a boot-camp class, bike ride or running, as long as I am outside (come rain, hail or shine), I find I can cope better with life’s demands if I have exercised. I also practice mindfulness before my working day starts. I find just five or ten minutes sets me up well for the day. I love to cook too and my kitchen is my happy place.

Do you have any upcoming projects lined up?

This is going to be a very exciting year for Vital Nutrition. I am a brand ambassador for Centra and we have some fun events lined up for stores and online over the next year or so. I have a new range of workplace

anxiety and/or depression but not to be in denial or fight it. Instead do multiple things that make managing it a lot easier.

Do you feel you are inspiring others? If so, in what way? I hope I’m inspiring others to feel empowered about their self-care. I want to be the reason why somebody decides to speak up and asks for help, rather than suffer in silence. My motto is to always be the person I needed when I was younger. When I was younger I was surrounded by my amazing family but in a culture where communication about mental health was non-existent. I’m the mental health revolutionary that the younger me needed.

CAROLINE McMENAMIN

Mental health therapist, founder of Replenish: Acting On Mental Health, and The Red Dutchess blogger From: Derry Age: 29

What type of issues do you think women, in particular, struggle with the most?

I’ve seen a lot of women suffer with their mental health, especially in relation to hormones and post-pregnancy.

What do you believe is most important when it comes to healthy living?

What is most important is - acceptance that we won’t always be 100% and that’s OK. Whether it be physical or mental, we won’t always be our best self all of the time. Mental health in particular is about acknowledging that you may be prone to

How do you cope with stress?

If you’re predisposed to mental health issues then stress is going to impact on you a lot more. Living with OCD means I take my self-care and stress management very seriously. What one may mistake as me being lazy or being a loner, is actually me introverting to regain my balance and strength so I can do my mental health workshops. Self-care is not selfish, it’s absolutely necessary. If I didn’t take the time I take in resting, unwinding, doing yoga or introverting, then I wouldn’t be able to function. Simple as. So I suggest creating a self-care plan of the things you do to stay well. This is what our Replenish workshops have been about: The steps to self-care.

How did you get involved with counselling?

After I did my post-grad in CBT I wanted to broaden my repertoire of therapeutic approaches, and so I went on to study counselling. I decided to delve into the field

healthy cooking workshops that will be launched in the next few months and, alongside all of that, I am planning an exciting new project with Vital Nutrition to help encourage, entice and tempt more people to eat well for the good of their health. I can’t tell you too much right now, but I think you will like it.

Do you feel social media is the most effective way to inspire,influence and communicate with others? I use Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to engage with people and I love doing videos and Facetime live posts as a way to get folk talking. I have recently started a Monday challenge on my Vital Nutrition Facebook page and it has been so much fun. I set a challenge at the start of the week; it might be something like ‘make every plate a rainbow of colours’, or ‘show me your breakfast’ – it is a small little task to get people thinking about what they are eating and how they could make it just a little bit better.

µµSelf-care is not selfish, it’s absolutely necessary∑∑ of mental health just after finishing my first degree in Drama from University of Ulster, because I found drama to be a therapeutic medium of expression, as well as just being diagnosed at 21 and receiving CBT as well. So now my Replenish workshops are made up of multiple therapeutic approaches, drama included.

Do you feel social media is the most effective way to inspire, influence and communicate with others?

Absolutely. If I didn’t have The Red Dutchess (www.thereddutchess.co.uk), then the development and rapid growth of Replenish would be nowhere near where it is today. I’ve found that being my vocal, unapologetic self on my social media platforms, I’ve come to develop incredible friendships. I always say: “Your vibe attracts your tribe”, and the day I started speaking about my mental health was the day I found my tribe. So now when we run workshops, we continue the support through developing support groups called Replenish Tribes. To have somebody say “me too” when you speak about your illness that you’ve lived with for so long alone, makes you feel a connection like you never thought possible when living with a crippling illness. Without social media I wouldn’t have my tribe, people wouldn’t be able to come to me at any time of the day or night, for help and I wouldn’t be where I am today in regards to my career. n

ESCAPE

Zaitunay Bay, Beirut

Beirut City Guide

The Lebanese capital is a hedonistic mix of fashion, food, art, music and nightlife. Here’s what to do on a short break in Beirut.

BY BEN TIMBERLAKE

ebanon is enjoying a period of peace and prosperity and Beirut is thriving. Its vibrant art, food and nightlife rival anything New York, Paris or London have to offer. And Lebanon is such a small country that nowhere is more than two hours’ drive away. Above all, Lebanon is a beautiful and daringly hopeful vision of what the future of the region might hold. Beirut is the city where the Middle East goes to party and shop but also to experiment with new ideas in fashion, music, art and more. The Lebanese are crazy, passionate, creative, hedonistic and some of the best hosts on earth.

Get your bearings

On landing in Beirut, look north: The Mediterranean is on your left and the mountains are on your right. The city sits on a spur of land between the two. Beirut’s Rafic Hariri International Airport is south of the city and it’s a 15-minute drive to

downtown for $25 (£19). Many hotels will offer a car service to collect guests from the airport for a small charge. Beirut’s tourist office is at 550 Central Bank Street. The Lebanese pound or lira is the local currency but all hotels tend to give prices in dollars and euros.

DAY ONE

Take a hike

Starting out from Mar Mikhael, a fashionable neighbourhood in the Achrafieh district, head west down Armenia Street and continue along Gouraud before it reaches Martyr’s Square. The square is a great place to get coffee or fresh juice, and begin to take in the city’s history. It’s a popular place in the evenings too, when the road is crammed with HarleyDavidsons and trendy hipster-types. Martyr’s Square gives a taste of the bloody Civil War which took place between 1975 and 1990 – it still has the odd battledamaged building and bullet-pocked statue.

Continue west on Waygand and admire the Mansour Assaf Mosque before heading north for two blocks to reach the Beirut Souks for lunch.

Lunch on the run

The Souk el Tayeb is an open-air weekly farmer’s market held on Saturdays at Beirut Souks from 9am-2pm and on Wednesdays at the Gefinor Centre in Clemenceau from 12-6pm. Souk el Tayeb means ‘the good market’ and it was founded by journalist and food activist, Kamal Mouzawak, to champion local food. Try the lamb cutlets and fattoush salad. If the Souk is closed then check out Tawlet, a restaurant that is part of the farmers market and offers set menus and cooking classes. Each day a different chef cooks local recipes from different parts of Lebanon; profits go to support farmers and producers.

Window shopping

Browse the rest of the Souk area for designer brands or head back to Mar

Travel essentials GETTING THERE

You can fly from Belfast with a flight change in London, with Aer Lingus and MEA. However it’s much cheaper to fly from Dublin. British Airways, Turkish Airlines and Luftansa offer return flights with 1-3 hour stopover in London, Istanbul or Frankfurt.

STAYING THERE Hummus and falafel – traditional Lebanese meze

Beirut sunset on the Rock of Raouché

Mikhael for classy vintage and artisanal beauty products. Start at the art, book and poster store Plan BEY. It’s run as a cooperative so be sure to ask staff for tips on other fashion, music or art happenings nearby in the neighbourhood.

An aperitif

The Gemmayzeh neighbourhood is where the Lebanese import the latest drinking trends from abroad, perfect them, and show them off. Check out the Torino Express on Gouraud Street and try their Cafe Corretto – an espresso with a shot of grappa – to turbocharge your evening. Nearby Kayan, on Lebanon Street, does a mean Bresaola Club Sandwich; for a quiet drink try the Dragonfly right next door to Torino Express for an art-deco, Parisian vibe.

Dine with the locals

Get comfortable at Baron and enjoy a cocktail while people-watching the beautiful and fashionable types of Mar Mikhael. Chef Athanasios Kargatzidis is evangelical about Lebanese and Mediterranean food; his cooking makes Ottolenghi’s dishes look like tired coleslaw. Try the quail, garlic aioli and pickled

kohlrabi with a side of thyme-roasted squash.

DAY TWO

Out to brunch

Wake up with a recharging dip in the sea. Pierre and Friends is to the north of Beirut and ranked as one of the top beach bars in the world. Grab a cocktail, retox and people-watch. This place has one of the best seafood grills in Lebanon.

A walk in the park

On your way back into Beirut proper stop by at Byblos. Considered by many to be the oldest city on earth, Byblos is an ancient gem set beside the sea, boasting examples of the many different civilisations that have inhabited it throughout the centuries. Wander around ancient Phoenician temples, the turrets of the Crusader castle, the old Mosque and the historic souks. Stop by Memoire du Temps where you can buy exquisite marine fossils from this familyrun museum and shop.

Cultural afternoon

Back in Beirut, visit the recently reopened Sursock Museum. This collection of modern

The Villa Clara in Mar Mikhael is owned and run by Olivier Gougeon and his wife Marie-Helene, and is named after their seven-year-old daughter. Olivier cooks an electric combination of French and Lebanese cuisine while Marie-Helene edits a French-language interior design magazine; the hotel is crowded with stunning, contemporary art. Doubles from £125, B&B. The Phoenicia Hotel is a Beirut classic. It’s not as hip as the Villa Clara but it offers some serious luxury in the centre of Beirut for a very reasonable rate, and the Amethyste Pool Bar and Lounge offers some of the best people-watching in the city. Doubles from £220, room only. Le Gray Hotel is an incredibly stylish, ultra-modern hotel with a rooftop pool overlooking Martyrs’ Square. Doubles from £420, room only.

and contemporary art is housed within one of the most beautiful former private residences in the country. Open daily bar Tuesdays 11am-7pm; late opening on Thursdays from 1-10pm. Move on to the National Museum of Beirut; a small but perfectly formed museum that tells the story of Lebanon’s incredible history without being overwhelming. Highlights include The Abduction of Europe mosaic and Achilles Sarcophagus with scenes from the Iliad. Open 9am-5pm Tuesday through to Sunday.

Take a ride

Hire a bike from Beirut By Bike for $5 an hour and cycle down the Corniche. All of Lebanese life is here: Old men playing backgammon and young men on HarleyDavidsons; grandmothers with their heads covered and girls whistling past on rollerblades; super-yachts and solitary fishermen. Wander down to Pigeon Rocks to watch insanely brave youths dive off the rocks in the setting sun.

The icing on the cake

Don’t miss a chance to visit The Music Hall. It’s owned and run by Michel Elefteriades, a Greek-Lebanese politician, artist, record producer and judge on The X Factor Arabia. The Music Hall is a throwback to the glory days of cabaret: A grand bar and cascade of booths and private tables lead down to the stage where some of the best of Middle Eastern and World Music is showcased. n

NEW YORK CITY

Where to eat, drink and stay in Manhattan BY RACHAEL REVESZ

Times Square

ew York is a city of hectic and exciting extremes; wind tunnel avenues and skyscrapers are cosied up to Sunday afternoontype bars and cafés. The metropolis is a must-see for those who love culture, history, food and nightlife – and it’s a delight for architectural devotees who simply enjoy pounding the miles of pavement in a grid-like structure that ensures getting lost isn’t an option.

What to do

WALK THE STREETS One of the most enjoyable things to do is simply take a stroll and absorb the eclectic buildings as you go. Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of ground to cover, from the oldest buildings in the city near the Wall Street financial district to Chinatown, Little Italy, Tribeca and the West Village – all are worth exploring. Be sure to walk up Fifth Avenue, from the Washington Square Arch at the bottom to the Plaza Hotel at the top. You’ll see Central Park along the way; it’s especially beautiful in spring and autumn.

HIT THE RIVER Indulge in a boat trip to the Statue of Liberty and the Ellis Island Immigration Museum. The pick-up point is Battery Park, and you can hop on and off the islands as you wish. Tickets start at $18.50 per adult.

MAKE FOR THE MUSEUMS The American Museum of Natural History is worth visiting for the dinosaur skeletons alone. It asks for a donation, rather than an entry fee. The museum is open daily from 10am to 5.45pm. For a more bite-sized cultural trips, the Museum of the City of New York is on the opposite side of Central Park and offers fascinating insights into the city’s history. It is open daily from 10am to 6pm and the

admission fee is $18. The Tenement Museum houses a derelict but carefully preserved building, where hundreds of immigrants lived together in crammed quarters in the 20th century, and many of the inhabitants’ stories have been carefully documented. Buy a tour online at the Tenement Museum for $25.

FIND YOUR MUSE The Metropolitan Museum of Art is one of the finest galleries in the world, and the largest in the US. As well as the permanent collection, there are numerous temporary exhibitions; current highlights include Rodin, David Hockney and Michelangelo. The gallery is open from 10am to 5.30pm Mondays to Thursdays, and from 10am to 9pm Fridays and Saturdays. Entry is free but the suggested donation is $25. Meanwhile the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) contains an evolving collection of almost 200,000 works of contemporary and

modern art from artists such as Van Gogh, Picasso and Rothko, plus photography, film, design, and performance. The museum is open from 10.30am to 5.30pm Mondays to Sundays, and until 8pm on Fridays. The admission fee is $25. The Whitney, which recently moved to an impressive modern building in the meatpacking district, focuses on 20th- and 21st-century American art. The Whitney is open Wednesday to Monday from 10.30am to 6pm, and is closed Tuesdays. The New York Public Library on Fifth Avenue is sublime, boasting the famous Rose Main Reading Room. Sneak a look at Charles Dickens’ desk upstairs before it is moved back to London later this year. The library is open daily from 10am or 11am, except Sundays.

Where to stay

New York is infamously expensive, but there are a range of hotels to suit every budget if

Macy’s, NYC

rooftop bar at the William Vale hotel, which offers one of the best views of the Manhattan skyline from Brooklyn. The midtown gem that is Monkey Bar is an institution for jazz and beer. Enjoy the music, the artwork on the walls and the old New York-style lamps as you brush shoulders with the cool, Saturday-evening crowd. For a more laidback and cheaper vibe, head to Old Town Bar - a stone’s throw from Union Square. It has all the classics; a long bar, marble floor and cosy wooden booths. It serves excellent fries, too. No need to book but get there before the local, afterwork crowd arrives.

Where to shop

New York Nuts and Bolts Should I tip? For eating, drinking, taxis and tour guides, tip between 15 and 20 percent. What’s the time difference? New York is five hours behind and runs on East Coast Time (ET). Public transport A bus or subway ride costs $2.75 with a travel card. Water ferries are the same price for a one-way ticket. Best view For the best view of the 1930s Empire State Building, head to the Rockefeller Centre at night, surrounded by the Hudson and the East River, it is even more spectacular. Tickets cost $34.

Where to eat

The Cornelia Street Café in the heart of the West Village is perfect for brunch, lunch or dinner, offering delicious side dishes such as hummus drizzled with fruity balsamic vinegar. For $10 you can head down to the basement after your meal for a night of jazz. La Esquina has trendy décor, tasty Mexican food and friendly service. The setting at its flagship restaurant in Soho is also cool – you have to walk through a quiet diner and go downstairs before being hit by the great music and an upbeat atmosphere. New York demands you splash out on at least one meal. Buddakan – recognisable to Sex and the City fans as the place where Big and Carrie hold their engagement dinner in the film – serves mouth-watering Asian dishes and cocktails.

Where to drink

Enjoy a white Russian or an espresso martini 22 floors up at Westlight, the

Walk over the Brooklyn Bridge from Manhattan and check out the up-andcoming industrial chic architecture of Dumbo and the famous Brooklyn Flea market on Sundays (April through October). Then jump on a water taxi two stops north to Williamsburg. The small but lovely Artists & Fleas market is open from 10am to 7pm on weekends. While in the neighbourhood, check out the boutiques and shops on Williamsburg’s Bedford Avenue. For vintage clothes shops, head to the East Village. At Nomad Vintage East 6th Street there are tribal frocks aplenty, while No Relation Vintage on 204 1st Avenue has a strong selection of shirts and denims. Fifth Avenue is crammed with designer shops and the flagship Tiffany jewellery store, but a more compact and affordable shopping experience can be found at the new Westfield mall under what used to be the World Trade Centre. The centre is open daily from 10am to 9pm.

Architectural highlight

If you’re a fan of Edith Wharton or Henry James, head to East 4th Street. The 19thcentury Merchant’s House Museum is the oldest, fully preserved townhouse in the city; it used to be owned by a prestigious New York family called the Tredwells. n

Insider tip Many art galleries and museums offer extended late hours and free entry on the first Friday of every month.

you know where to look. Millennial-favourite The Pod Hotel has funky colours, iPads in the communal room and roof decks. There are four locations around the city and Brooklyn. Doubles from $85, room only. The lobby is spectacular at The Row, although the rooms are fairly basic. Situated on Times Square, it’s a stone’s throw from Broadway and most of the theatres. Doubles from $67, room only. If you fancy splashing out, The Bowery is a chic option situated in the trendy Lower East Side. Rooms have large windows and stylish communal lounges. Doubles from $335, room only.

Houston Street, Manhattan

Ski HOLIDAYS What to pack for your Easter ski break BY HELEN COFFEY

or those new to skiing and snowboarding, the question of what to pack for a trip to the mountains can be daunting. How do you dress warmly without overheating? What should you wear in the evening? And how are you supposed to fit it all in? Here’s everything you need to know about packing for a snowsports holiday.

SNOWSPORTS WEAR Base layers

You may have heard people talk about the importance of layers when dressing for the mountains, and they’re quite right. Think thin, wicking fabrics that will trap air between each layer to keep you warm while drawing moisture away from the skin when you work up a sweat. The first layer is the base layer. Depending on how long you’re going for, think about taking a couple of thermal tops and pairs of long johns – these will be a staple for the holiday and you’ll wear them every day. Even if the weather’s fairly warm, it’s best to strip outer layers off first and keep the base layers on (it can still get cold on long chairlift rides). Base layers vary wildly in expense from under £10 to over £100; some of this will be to do with the materials used, such as ultra-soft merino wool, which ups the price. If it’s your first ski or snowboard holiday, it’s probably best not to splurge too much on kit – if you’re strapped for cash and you’re not going anywhere too cold, a pair of ordinary leggings will even do the job.

Alternatively M&S is great for sourcing thermals that won’t break the bank.

Mid layers

These are, as the name suggests, the midlayer between base layer and jacket. Again, you don’t want anything too thick or bulky (steer clear of hoodies) – opt for thin fleeces or down jackets, or if you’re going late season when the weather’s getting warmer, tee-shirts will do. Pack a couple of each, space permitting.

Snowsports jacket

As this is the bulkiest item, it’s best to wear it on the journey rather than try to pack it. Like everything related to skiing and snowboarding, you can spend from relatively little to an eye-watering amount.

As a novice, it’s better not to go too crazy – however, it is good to look out for how waterproof a jacket is, and how warm. There can be a lot of waiting around as a beginner, and the last thing you want is to get cold. Make sure you buy an insulated rather than a shell jacket (unless you have a separate softshell jacket to go underneath), and plump for a minimum waterproof rating of 5,000mm to ensure you stay dry. New to skiing? The best option is to borrow a jacket from a similar-sized friend. If it turns out you’re a convert, you can always buy your own in time for next season.

Salopettes/ski pants

These are the outer trousers, and should

hands tend to get very cold, consider also taking hand warmers to put inside your gloves.

Helmet

There has been a headwear revolution on the slopes in the last decade, and these days it’s far more common to see people wearing a helmet. For beginners it might be easier and more economical to rent one from the ski hire shop instead of buying your own.

Skis/snowboard and boots

As a novice, it’s much easier to hire your skis or snowboard and boots from a shop in resort. For one thing, ski carriage on airlines can be fairly expensive. Expert fitters can also recommend what would suit you best depending on your level, size and the terrain you’ll be exploring. However, if you do have your own, make the most of your ski or snowboard bag by packing it with as much of your skiwear as possible.

APRÈS WEAR

have a similar level of waterproofing to the jacket. Some are very high-waisted and come with braces to hold them up, while others have the shape of normal trousers. Go with whatever you feel most comfortable in – ensure they’re not too tight and that you have a good range of movement in them.

Socks

Ski socks are like normal socks, only thicker and longer. Take about three pairs – at a pinch thick walking socks will do the trick. Roll them into balls and tuck them into shoes in your luggage to save space.

Goggles

These are essential for visibility – they can help you see the contours of the slope in

flat light, keep your eyes shaded from the sun and stop them from watering as the wind whips past. For a first holiday a cheap pair of goggles will do; as you progress and start to take on tougher terrain and more challenging conditions in all weathers, it becomes a good idea to invest in a pair with interchangeable lenses for different types of light.

Gloves

These should be thick, warm and waterproof as your hands are the bits that tend to get the coldest. If you can, opt for mittens instead as these tend to be warmer; for the best of both, look for split finger mittens, where the index finger is separate to the rest of the glove, making it warm while offering greater dexterity. If your

You won’t be on the slopes all day, and come evening you’ll need a whole other wardrobe. Remember it is still going to be cold though, and heels aren’t recommended on slushy, icy streets. • Après boots (a pair of flat boots with good grip) • Two pairs of jeans • A couple of jumpers or cardigans • Socks • Tights/leggings • Tops • Skirts/dresses • Shirts • Hat

ESSENTIALS

Obviously you’ll pack the same important bits you would for any normal holiday, eg passport/tickets/money/insurance details. However, there are extras to remember for a ski trip: • Sun cream (high SPF) • Lip balm (high SPF) • Adaptors • Moisturiser or aftersun • Water bottle • Rucksack • Deep heat or similar • Slippers n

LET’S DRINK TO…

Chocolate liqueur

BY PAULA GRACEY

appy Easter everyone. It’s my second favourite holiday, the first being Christmas, with the recurring theme of chocolate a pure coincidence, of course. As Lent comes to an end, we now qualify for a licence to eat our own body weight in choccy eggs and what better tipple to sip while indulging than a deliciously silky cream liqueur? There are plenty to choose from these days and with a range of prices, you are sure to find one to suit your budget. The original and best known is Baileys Irish Cream (£21), but recent additions to their range include the most scrumptious Orange Truffle liqueur (£12) which is like a melted Terry’s Chocolate Orange – it should have a warning attached – so good. The same applies to Baileys’ latest creation... Almande Almond Milk Liqueur (£19.99). This one comes in a very virtuous looking white bottle (pictured) and is dairy free and vegan friendly. Made with almond essence from crushed almonds, sweet almond oil, cane sugar and real vanilla, it’s amazing. I cannot imagine any chocolate liqueur that wouldn’t go down well over ice, but try making a stonking Irish Coffee with it – yum. I’m also wondering could I swap it for my normal almond milk on porridge in the morning... hmm? If you call into your local Marks & Spencer, you will also find a great range of cream liqueurs, one of my faves being their Gold Creme Brulee Liqueur (£6.67). It comes in a beautiful gold bottle and has actual edible glittery bits in the liqueur. It is not too sweet, and lovely and warming as it goes down. This one is also vegan friendly and is superb poured over icecream for a delicious sparkly dessert. Lidl always come up with excellent cream liqueurs for special occasions and interestingly their Dundalgan Irish Cream Liqueur, which is a bargain at £3.75, recently beat many of the more well-known brands in a blind tasting test by experts. Lidl Deluxe Cream Liqueur (£7.75) is a lovely blend of Irish Whiskey and chocolate, not too sweet and as well as being super to sip, it is really good poured over vanilla ice-cream with a few chocolate shavings. Happy choccy fest! n

Wine Recommendation from Rebecca Robb: Verdicchio Dei Castelli Di Jesi April is here at last and not a minute too early! I hope as you read this the sunshine is pouring through your window, you have a wine glass in hand and are feeling full of the promise of new beginnings that spring brings us every year. This is the time of year I feel, to burst out of your comfort zone and be adventurous. My wine this month is the zesty Verdicchio Dei Castelli Di Jesi. This zingy little number from Marche in central Italy, known as Trebbiano Di Soave and Rolle in France. The Jesi tribe of Italy inhabited this part of the country in days gone by and when threatened by other warrior tribes they would flee to their hilltop towns or “castelli” to wait for the danger to pass, perhaps partaking in a glass of the wine that carries their name to this day. Verdicchio is derived from the word “verde” meaning green and this can be picked up in the slight green hues in the glass on pouring. Vibrant grapefruit, lemon and peach on the palate layered with hints of almond and a crisp acidity lends the wine its mouth-watering, refreshing appeal. Unfortunately, as with many generic white grapes grown in Italy, there is a fear for many wine drinkers that the resulting wine will lack in character. Not so in the case of this Verdicchio as low yields and careful vinification ensure a fantastic product. Incidentally, some Italian growers use Verdicchio to make a superb dessert wine known as “straw wine”. The grapes are dried in the sun on straw mats to concentrate the sugars. The resulting nectar is a must try if you are a passionate lover of pudding wines like myself! I have chosen chef’s Primavera Fusilli to enjoy alongside a glass of this Vediccchio from our Fratelli wine list, as we celebrate the launch of our new season menu. Happy Springtide and Salute until the next issue.

PRIMAVERA FUSILLI - Serves 2 Ingredients

• ½ x courgette • ½ x aubergine • 5-6 broccoli tender stem broccoli • 50g peas • 200g Fusilli Pasta • Olive oil • Salt & pepper to taste • Grated parmesan for garnish For white wine cream • ½ onion finely chopped • Sprig of rosemary & thyme • 4 cloves of garlic • 100mls white wine • 250ml of cream • Generous handful of grated parmesan

Method

1. In a pan sweat of the onion, garlic,

thyme & rosemary in a little olive oil. After 5-6 minutes deglaze the pan with the white wine, then add the cream and bring to the boil, then reduce heat. 2. In a pot bring 500mls of water to the boil add a little salt and splash of olive oil. Add the fusilli pasta and cook for 8-10mins 3. Dice the courgette & aubergine and sauté in a pan with a little olive oil along with the broccoli stems for 4-5 minutes 4. When pasta is cooked please strain then add into the vegetable mix. Add in the peas, white wine cream and a handful for parmesan. Toss everything together, add salt & pepper to taste and serve finishing with some grated parmesan.

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THE SOCIAL 10

Northern Woman’s round up of this month’s most happening events

After months of planning and preparation Louise Donnelly Makeup & Beauty studio, Ballycastle has launched of a new range of makeup classes, starting on 4th April. The one-to-one makeup lessons and group masterclasses, which will be carried out by Louise herself, are designed to demonstrate how to achieve various looks from everyday makeup to a much more dramatic look. Louise will be sharing her knowledge and skills around specific makeup application techniques and the use of essential products.

Northern Ireland’s new premier health, fitness and wellness event, the NI Fitness Show, sponsored by Dale Farm takes place on 7-8 April. Held at the Titanic Exhibition Centre, Belfast the show will feature a star-studded line-up of fitness experts including The Body Coach, Joe Wicks and Results With Lucy, Lucy Mecklenburgh. The show will bring together world-class experts and brands in fitness, mental health and nutrition with live demos, exercise classes, Q+A sessions and more focusing on food, body, lifestyle and mind. For more information visit www.nifitnessshow.com.

42nd Street showcases the American dream of stardom. The St. Agnes’ Choral Society show takes place on 10-14 April at the Grand Opera House, Belfast. Featuring the iconic songs ‘42nd Street’, ‘We’re In The Money’ and ‘Lullaby of Broadway’, this show will have the glitz and glamour to be the hottest ticket in town. For tickets visit www.goh.co.uk

The Ards International Guitar Festival is back this month with a fresh new programme of guitar-inspired gigs, free fringe events and guitar clinics. Expect a jam-packed line-up of blues, folk, rock, bluegrass and classical hits for guitar aficionados, on from 11-15 April.

Belfast Film Festival launches its 18th annual festival of premieres, events and the best in world cinema, from 12-21 April. Presenting a huge variety of films from across the globe, the line-up includes new international cinema and documentaries, critically acclaimed television, features and shorts from local filmmakers, and more.

Discover the secrets behind the ultimate mix with a Cocktail Masterclass offered up by Fratelli’s expert mixologists on Tuesday 17th April. Hosted in both Fratelli Galgorm and Fratelli Belfast, learn the difference between mix, muddle and mash, whilst enjoying an arrival drink and light bites from Fratelli’s kitchen. Shake it up on your own and master three classic cocktails - making you a cocktail connoisseur by the end of the night. To book visit galgorm.com or fratellibelfast.com

The NABBA NI Bodybuilding Championships will take place on 28th April at the Ulster Hall, Belfast. The event will feature special guest stars, trade stands, competitions and a lot of muscle flexing! For ticket information visit www.ulsterhall.co.uk

Are you up for the Rampage at the Jungle challenge? The Run Rampage Weekender at The Jungle, Magherafelt begins with an exhilarating 5k or 10k adventure run loaded with obstacles, followed by some hot food, live music and a themed afterparty where you can rest your tired muscles and unwind with your fellow competitors. For information visit www.thejungleni.com.

DATES FOR THE DIARY S.D. Bell & Co Ltd, Knock, Belfast, is the site of a shop, coffee roastery, tea blending facility, and the popular Leaf & Berry coffee bar. Over the last eight years this has become famous within the Northern Ireland jazz scene, for their Sunday Java Jive Jazz Brunch. The programme for May includes local jazz singers Tanisha Power on May 6th, and Anoinette McAllister on 27th May, funky jazz pianist Matt Evans on 13th May, and Three Quarters Band on 20th May. Book online at www.sdbelleteacogffee. com/events, or call 028 9047 1774.

WellFest health, fitness and wellness festival takes place this year on 12th and 13th May at the Royal Hospital Kilmainham, Dublin. WellFest is on a mission to inspire and inform across the three main pillars of wellness: nutrition, fitness and mental health. The 2018 lineup includes Davina McCall, Roz Purcell and Deliciously Ella, to name a few – well worth taking a day trip to Dublin for.

Love Simon

Movie roundup New films coming to a cinema near you this month

Entebbe

Also called 7 Days in Entebbe, this thriller is inspired by the true events of the 1976 hijacking of an Air France flight en route from Tel Aviv to Paris. The plane was forced to land in Entebbe in Uganda, and Jewish passengers held hostage. The film depicts the most daring rescue mission ever attempted. Starring: Rosamund Pike, Daniel Brühl, Eddie Marsan and Ben Schnetzer Release date: 6th April

Ghost Stories

Professor Phillip Goodman, psychologist and skeptic, has his rationality tested when he stumbles across a long-lost file

containing details of three terrifying hauntings. Goodman embarks on a mission to find explanations for these ghostly tales. As he investigates, he meets three people, each with a tale more frightening than the last. As Goodman digs into their stories, his rational world starts to dissolve around him. Starring: Alex Lawther, Martin Freeman and Andy Nyman Release date: 6th April

Love Simon

Everyone deserves a great love story. But for seventeen-year-old Simon Spier it’s a little more complicated: he’s yet to tell his family or friends he’s gay and he doesn’t actually

know the identity of the anonymous classmate he’s fallen for online. Based on Becky Albertalli’s acclaimed novel, Love Simon is a funny and heartfelt coming-ofage story about finding yourself and falling in love. Starring: Nick Robinson, Katherine Langford, Alexandra Shipp, Jorge Lendeborg and Miles Heizer Release date: 6th April

The Guernsey Literary And Potato Peel Pie Society

A correspondence begins between Juliet Ashton and members of The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society, with them sharing their experiences of Nazioccupied Guernsey. Julie decides to write a book and visits Guernsey, making lifelong friends and taking life-changing steps along the way. Starring: Lilly James, Jessica Brown Findlay and Matthew Goode Release date: 19th April

Every Day

Every Day tells the story of Rhiannon; a 16-year old girl who falls in love with a mysterious soul named ‘A’ who inhabits a different body every day. Feeling an unmatched connection, Rhiannon and A work every day to find each other, not knowing what or who the next day will bring. Starring: Angourie Rice, Owen Teague and Debby Ryan Release date: 20th April

Let the Sunshine in

Don’t let the subtitles put you off, this French film is emotive and thought provoking. Parisian artist, Isabelle, is looking for love. Despite going through a divorce, this young mother is on a quest to find true love once and for all. Starring: Juliette Binoche, Xavier Beauvois and Philippe Katerine Release date: 20th April n

LIVING

Credit: Furniture Village

THE GALLERY WALL

Grouped collections are an excellent way of using up the empty space on a large wall, plus it allows you to show off more of your personality in the display. This arrangement works well because it uses a few key colours – mustard, black, white – to tie the different images together. These colours are also picked up in the furnishings.

Ben de Lisi wall art from £20; light box £30; cushions from £10; magazine rack £32; vase from £12; mug £18; cup £25; rug £360; chaise £1,550; table £80; pendant £95, all from Debenhams

Art TO heart Hang your pictures like a pro. The latest trends are for gallery walls, leaning arrangements, oversized, singular pieces and taped displays. BY RÓISÍN CARABINE 66

THE SINGULAR SHOWSTOPPER

A singular display works best when it is given sufficient breathing space to be impactful – that means not hanging anything near it. It can be one oversized piece that fills an entire wall or one carefully chosen smaller piece thoughtfully hung above a fireplace, a chair or in an alcove.

‘Blocks Blue’ canvas painting, 160cm x 120cm from Ohwhatsthis.com, £1,726

THE WALL LEAN

Artwork doesn’t always have to be hung. It’s all about leaning these days. For an alternative display lean framed pieces against the wall atop of a sideboard, dresser or piano and add interest and texture by overlapping the frames.

Wall art from £60, Oliver Bonas, Belfast

THE TAPED DISPLAY

Be inspired by this bedside arrangement by Ikea and use washi tape to hang and display your favourite photographs or inspirational images. It’s purse-friendly and very on trend. Choose black and white pics or themed images for added impact.

THE CONTEMPORARY CLASH

Not all artwork has to be hung on plain walls for it to have an impact. Break all the rules by hanging yours on bold, patterned wallpaper. This works well if you choose a wide mount so there’s some visual separation between the art and the wall.

Framed prints £30; Floresta wallpaper from £15 a roll; Ceramic ginger jars from £12; Flamingo sculpture from £26; Gold monkey cushion from £8, all from Dunelm

THE CREATIVE CLUSTER

Themed displays always look more effective and put together than those that don’t. This seemingly disparate arrangement of different sized wall hung images and others placed on a picture ledge is linked by one central concept. Large leafy potted plants and botanical-inspired soft furnishings add cohesion.

Multi palm print cushion £13; navy fringe edge velvet cushion £13; picture frames from £5, all from B&Q

THE STYLED SHELVES

Hanging lots of pictures on one wall and making them look nice can be difficult to get right. A row of picture ledges is a simpler alternative to a gallery wall, especially if you like to change up your displays a lot. Painting the ledges in the same shade as your wall will really help your artwork to stand out.

Mosslanda picture ledge, £8.95; Silverhöjden frame £5; Virserum frame, £8, all from Ikea

THE FLOOR SHOW

Aside from looking super chic and casual, sitting art on the floor makes for a versatile display that can easily be changed around. The secret to its success is all about mixing pieces of varying heights and even incorporating other propped objects like mirrors, empty frames and sculptures. For added punch combine your display with a vignette.

Balham leather chair £349; fringed cushion £14; Giraffe framed print £20, all from Dunelm

THE COMPLEMENTARY PAIRING

If you have two same scale pieces that are similar in style, subject matter or colour, then displaying them together will really make your artwork stand out.

Peacock fine art print & Hummingbird fine art print from Loladesignltd.com, £25 each

Swedish death cleaning Forget Hygge; the latest Scandi craze set to sweep our homes is Dodstadning – otherwise known as Swedish Death Cleaning BY JADE BEECROFT

ver since IKEA set up shop near Belfast City Airport just over a decade ago, we’ve been obsessed with Scandi living. And with statisticians telling us they’re some of the most contented people on the planet, it’s no surprise that we wholeheartedly embraced the recent Danish Hygge craze. After all, anything to make our homes more cozy is always going to win approval. But this year’s Scandinavian import, Dodstadning, is less of an easy sell.

Pronounced ‘du-stad-ning’ it literally means ‘death cleaning’ – the mindful process of decluttering to help your loved ones before you pass on. Before you start spluttering “but I’m only 37 – I’ve got decades ahead of me yet”, it’s apparently a process we could all benefit from. And thanks to a new book called The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning by Margareta Magnusson, it’s going to be one of the hot new trends of 2018. So let’s just hope it really is gentle. Swedish Death Cleaning is not actually as morbid as it sounds. As we live longer lives, we naturally accrue more possessions – but this is all stuff that our loved ones will one day have to sort through. This is where dodstadning comes in. It’s intended to help you decided which things really matter. If you get hit by a bus tomorrow, have you left behind precious treasures and memories for your family to keep; or will they have to plough through mountains of junk, paperwork, unopened mail and clothes you haven’t worn since 1992? Think of it as your annual spring clean… just with more focus! Keep the things that actually matter, and ditch all the needless junk.

Gwen Montgomery, from Killinchy, runs her own decluttering business ‘Sorted by Gwen’ and has made organizing and tidying her life’s work. She reckons Swedish Death Cleaning could help you order your home and reap the benefits, whatever your age. “Clutter can be really bad for our mental health,” she explains. “People don’t realise how much stress and bother they are causing themselves by always having mess in their eyeline. “It doesn’t create a restful atmosphere; it’s unsettling and it’s a constant reminder of things undone. It can also be a big stress factor on relationships – especially when one partner is naturally tidier than the other.” The key to successful de-cluttering, according to Gwen, is knowing where and how to start… and what to let go. “So many of our possessions have emotional connotations,” she says. “We keep a lot of things out of obligation or guilt, telling ourselves ‘she bought that especially for me’ or ‘he would have wanted me to keep that’. “That’s where Swedish Death Cleaning comes in. Think of all the things in your home that have been handed down to you – your grandmother’s tea service, for example, or jewellery. Do you ever use it? Or

is it just cluttering a sideboard or boxed up in the loft? “You can help your descendants by making better decisions on what to leave behind. A photo album might be a much more treasured hand-me-down than chipped china.” Paperwork is one of the things we hoard that invariably creates a chore for the next generation. “University or college coursework is a big thing people keep,” laughs Gwen. “So much sweat, tears and late nights went into gaining that degree that we keep all our notes and essays, even though we’ll never use them again and they’re just a fire hazard. You need to get rid of it all and just keep the certificate.

contented in the world, so it’s no surprise we’re keen to emulate them. And our ‘Scandimania’ ranges beyond minimalist flat pack furniture; Scandinavian noir crime fiction regularly tops our bestseller lists and its TV series prove instant Netflix hits. Swedish academic and politics lecturer Dr Stefan Andreasson, from Queen’s University Belfast, agrees that Scandinavian people have a reputation for being laid-back and well-organised, but thinks we’re in danger of viewing them with “rose-tinted glasses”. “It’s true that things are very wellordered in places like Sweden, there is something to the stereotypes,” he says. “But when we talk about the Danes, for example, being the happiest people on the planet, it’s easy to forget that they also have some of the highest rates of prescription for antidepressants.” A pinch of salt might be needed when we look to our Scandinavian cousins, but when it comes to Swedish Death Cleaning, Dr Andreasson thinks it makes good sense. “I’ve lived in the USA, South Africa, and now Northern Ireland,” he explains. “And when I go home to Sweden to visit family, it always strikes me how much time they really do spend cleaning their houses. “In Sweden, for example, we are obsessive about indoor hygiene and you would never walk into the house with your shoes on. “People like my grandmother would look around the house and say ‘look at all this stuff lying around – who will want it when I’m gone?’ She would have been keen to clear things and throw things out – the complete opposite to an Irish grandmother hoarding everything to pass down to the next generation.” If you really want to embrace the Swedish way of life, Dr Andreasson has another recommendation… “Look up the movies of Ingmar

TOP TIPS TO DECLUTTER: • Avoid getting overwhelmed by tackling small areas at a time, such as the cupboard under the stairs, or that kitchen drawer crammed with odds and ends. • Make a home for everything. Having a go-to place for things like scissors and spare batteries will save you buying duplicates. • Give gladly to your local charity shop. If you haven’t worn something for a while, or an item brings back bad memories, let it go and bring joy to someone else instead. • Ditch old tech. There’s no need to keep hold of unused chargers and connection cables, and you can recycle old phones and laptops. • When storing items in the loft or cellar, use plastic storage boxes, clearly labelled, to protect the items from damp and mould. If you’re going to keep something then it’s worth looking after. • Avoid cluttering other people’s homes with unwanted gifts by giving them memories instead. Treat them to a meal or event tickets in lieu of a present – or buy something that can be enjoyed in the short term, like luxury chocolates or flowers. • If you’re having a big clear-out, enlist the help of your friends and family, or hire a professional. Gwen Montgomery’s nonjudgemental decluttering services start from £100 for a morning. Visit www.sortedbygwen.com

Bergman,” he laughs. “That will give you an insight into something that is genuinely Swedish. He was a brilliant filmmaker; that is what I would like to give to the world from Sweden!” n

µµHelp your descendants by making better decisions on what to leave behind∑∑ “Motherhood also brings with it a lot of hoarding and sentimentality. We naturally want to save every drawing, hand print and scrap of paper. But these days it’s easy to take photos of their work and save it all electronically instead. “It’s okay to keep a memory box… but don’t turn your home into a memory house!” We often look to Scandinavia for ideas on how to live well; numerous polls rank these nations as amongst the happiest and most

French Victorian style Northern Woman takes a look inside an Antrim home with a French twist

ucked away in the countryside, Seóna and Paul McErlean’s Toombridge home appears as if it has been there for decades as it so seamlessly blends in with the natural surroundings. The sweeping bay windows, antique-style furniture and ornate décor touches create the sense of belonging to another time, so it’s surprising to learn that the couple moved into their self-build only eight years ago. “I have always loved Victorian style and we wanted a two-storey house with bay windows,” Seóna explains. “We were

Photography by Michael Bradley looking for a site that was right for us for years; while we were waiting we designed our perfect house. Paul drew the house plans and a lot of the rooms were designed around furniture pieces that we already had, such as the chaise longue in the hall. “The style of our home is Victorian but I really like French style and you can see that in the fittings, cornicing, flooring and moulding on the outside walls.” In the days before Pinterest or Instagram became popular, Seóna completed an interior design workshop which helped her to create a visual concept for her home. On the instructor’s advice she made mood

boards using photos torn out of home interior magazines, and planned each room using the images as inspiration. “I also like 50p-shape so we added in a back porch, with a reading room tower and hexagonal turret,” Seóna adds. “My favourite room is the sitting room because of the amount of work we put in to it and how it turned out. We don’t have a TV in there and we love sitting around the open fire when guests come over. Paul did a fantastic job on the wall panelling.” Seóna takes NW on a tour of her house, which is home to three children; Líle, Ben and Isabel. n

“The parquet floor was reclaimed from an old church and was restored by a local tradesman. The sofas and armchairs were Gumtree finds, they were two different sets and I had them all upholstered in the same fabric.”

“I love the slipper bath and the splayed window facing out over the view. The bath was finished white and I painted it green. The cast-iron French radiator is from Wilson’s Yard, Dromore.”

“I adore this clock. It’s French style reminded me of Cogsworth from Beauty and the Beast.”

“The island in the kitchen is great for cooking and baking. I love the dusted damson colour against the cream cupboards and stone-coloured island. The tea cups on the shelves were car boot finds.”

“This is Isabel’s lamp which was a present from her Granny. It’s from The Range and adds to the fairytale theme of her room.”

“Our three-year-old Isabel has just moved into her own room and it was so fun decorating it for her. She loves the fairy lights on her bed. I painted all the furniture using chalk paints.”

“I have a bit of a shoe habit and after filling the dressing room I bought this old china cabinet and painted it, for use as shoe storage. I love the shape of this one and looked for a while before I got the style I wanted.”

“This is my six-year-old son Ben’s bedroom which we decorated in blue, grey and neutral tones.”

“I designed the stained glass window myself after researching Victorian and Edwardian stained glass designs online. The cushions on the chaise lounge accentuate the colours in the window.”

“The stained glass in the door is the same design as the landing window, just tweaked to fit the door panels. I wanted the house to have that period feel inside and so the floor tiles were a must.”

“I have always loved his-and-hers bathroom sinks.”

“The dining table was another Gumtree find; I much prefer second-hand furniture. I have a big family and have easily sat 14 people around it for dinner.”

DOUBLE UP Shop April’s designer buyers and purse-friendly lookalikes BY RÓISÍN CARABINE

SAVE

SPLURGE

Black Metal Wire Pendant Shade from George @ Asda £20 Peng Bloomingville Pernille Pendant in black metal from Outthereinteriors.com £180

Vitra Askerisk Wall Clock from Next.co.uk £195 Umbra Ribbon Wall Clock from Black-by-design.co.uk £40

Helsinki Wine Rack from Sainsbury’s Home £10

Elise Black Chrome Bar Stool from Danetti.com £129

Pulse Wine Rack in copper by Umbra from Redcandy.co.uk £35

Dutchbone Flor Upholstered Chair in black from Cuckooland.com £329

Prestige Chevron French Coffee Press from Dunelm £40

Serving Dome from the Mary Berry Collection from Sainsbury’s Home £25

Nikuku Recycled Glass Cake Dome from Amara.com £70 Alessi Aldo Rossi Press Filter Coffee Maker from Black-by-design.co.uk £105

The perfect setting. For your intimate Wedding, why not book Maryville House. Enjoy beautiful surroundings and complete privacy With accommodation on site, it is the perfect venue for any occasion. You can also make your Hen party special by booking our elegant, private room.

tel 02890681510 email: info@maryvillehouse.co.uk www.maryvillehouse.co.uk

Mr & Mr McCartan Photos by Collette Creative

ames Wallace and Graham McCartan met on a night out in Belfast in 2011. James, who is from Carrickfergus, was working in London at the time. “After dating for six weeks I realised that the prospect of going back home to London was unimaginable,” James begins. “Graham thought the same so I decided to stay at home and see how things went and we have never looked back”. Four years later Graham popped the question during a romantic weekend away at Cabra Castle and the pair lost no time in planning their humanist ceremony. “On the day of the proposal Graham had arranged for us to meet with the wedding coordinator, after a tour and taking into consideration the sentiment behind the castle, the venue was booked there and then,” James says. “The wedding was planned in three days. I knew exactly what I wanted. The theme was understated glam; the guests in black and white, and the bridal party in a standout colour.” The couple asked “dear friend” Collette Creative to be their wedding photographer. “We wanted the day to be captured and not staged and Collette did that perfectly,” James says. Keen to use local suppliers where possible, they booked The Third Letter, Downpatrick, to design the stationery; Crew Cakes, Ardglass, made the eight-tier wedding cake; the rings were from Down Jewellers, Downpatrick, and the suits were from Statement Menswear, Portadown. The hand-crafted bespoke bridemaids’ dresses were created by Una Rodden. “Una was amazing throughout the whole designing process, these dresses were everything I wanted and more. She listened to everything we asked for and came up with perfection,” James enthuses. For James, the most memorable moment of this wedding day was: “When I walked out the doors and saw my future husband standing in front of the flower wall (that I had told I was categorially not allowed!), and all our closest friends and family being their waiting to watch me marry the man of my dreams”.

Graham’s favourite memory was: “The moment I saw James and his mother walking down the aisle and realised I was about to marry the love of my life”. The couple honeymooned in Paris. “I think we can both say our highlight was having our picture taken with Mickey Mouse – yes we are both big kids!” James jokes. n

Venue: Cabra Castle, Cavan Groomswear: Statement Menswear, Portadown Bridesmaids’ dresses: Una Rodden Couture, Belfast Makeup: Melissa Elliot, Belfast Hair: Ryan Ebbit from Kenneth Michael, Belfast Flowers: Patricia’s Petals, Downpatrick

Mr & Mrs McKinney Photography by Jude Browne

eenage sweethearts Louise Allen and Keith McKinney met back in 2002 when Louise had spotted Keith in school and “took a fancy to him”. A friend passed on Louise’s number and the rest is history. The couple bought a house together in Moy and spent their first night there on New Year’s Eve 2015. Keith gave his other half a photobook of all their years together, he said he had another present before getting down on one knee to propose. “It was a great surprise and I really wasn’t expecting it,” Louise says. The couple booked their wedding in February 2017 and planned the whole thing in only six months. Jude Browne captured the wedding photos and the pair couldn’t recommend her enough. “You would never know she was there, although she managed to get so many amazing photos,” Louise says. Keith and Louise designed and printed all of their own stationery, and got their wedding cake from Una Turbitt, Ballygawley. The bride looked sensational in an Essence of Australia gown. “As soon as I had it on I knew it was the one; I fell in love with it straight away,” Louise says. “Charlene from Creative Idea is extremely good at what she does and can tell straight away what really suits you. “My favourite memory from my wedding day is of Keith’s speech. I just loved it from start to finish and even shed a few tears. Keith isn’t the most romantic person but his speech was just perfect; I was so proud of him.” The groom’s most memorable moment from his wedding day was, “Watching Louise walk down the aisle - she looked amazing”. The newlyweds enjoyed a relaxing beach honeymoon in Thailand in the Phi Phi islands and Koh Samui. n

Venue: Lough Erne Resort, Enniskillen Dress: Creative Ideas, Armagh Groomwear: Remus Uomo, Belfast Bridesmaid’s dresses: Creative Ideas, Armagh Makeup: Michelle Diffen, Armagh Hair: Cuttin It, Armagh Flowers: Allen Flowers, Benburb

L L I T S LY ON

! 1 ÂŁ

In the May issue of Ethical fashion Return of punk Cruelty free beauty Careers - your personal brand makeover

Interiors, health & wellness, travel reviews, local weddings, beauty news, events, competitions and lots more

Credit: River Island

THE

ALBUM Ciara and Conor McAleer. Photo credit: Press Eye

Victoria Square celebrate 10th birthday

Lauren Campbell, Anyi Hobson, Michelle Greeves, Criona Collins and Belinda Moran

Victoria Square celebrated its 10th birthday recently and marked the occasion with a host of exclusive events including a party at The Ivory (pictured). Shoppers benefitted from a fantastic range of promotions, offers, giveaways and more, as Victoria Square went into full on celebration mode, with the mall bedecked with an impressive floral installation and live music performances. Photos by Press Eye

Erin McCloon, Becky Atkinson and Ben Martin

Jackie Harte and Brian Forsythe

Sinead Cavanagh and Nuala Meenehan

Elaine Brannigan and Eleanor Ellerslie

Paul Greeves and Stephen Mewha

Niamh Mervyn and Cory Quinn

Gillian Hetherington, Michelle Greeves and Dame Mary Peters

Jenna Pollock and Kyle Russell

Lucy McCreary and Julie Hastings

Rachel Morrow, Zoe Latimer and Andrew Dedge

Victoria and Ann Bell-Patterson

Hospitality Ulster Top 100 Awards

The search to find Northern Irelandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top hospitality hot spots came to a dramatic conclusion as the Top 100 Hospitality Businesses were revealed. The coveted list, compiled by industry body, Hospitality Ulster in conjunction with a panel of top industry experts was unveiled at a prestigious ceremony at Titanic Belfast, hosted by comedian Tim McGarry and attended by VIP guests including boxing legend, Carl Frampton.

Nina Doyle and Maura Bradshaw

Photos by Press Eye

Ryan Feeney and Caroline McNeill

Neill McVeigh, Aaron Logan and James McVeigh

Niamh Blake and Eamon Drum

Trevor McCann and Lesa McCann

Oonagh Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Reilly, Jenni Smart and Laura Cowan

Jenevieve Devenny and Martin Breen

Liam McGuinness and Mario Macari

Peita McAlister and Emma Jordan

Louise Vance and Cathy Martin Paula Gracey and Jim Gracey

The Irish Flight at The Cloth Ear

Foodies who share a taste for fine Irish produce had even more reason to venture to the traditional surroundings of The Cloth Ear public bar, located in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter. Head Chef Ian McAdam has unveiled a sensational new food and drink offering featuring the finest of Irish ingredients, perfectly paired with three much-loved Irish drinks. ‘The Irish Flight’ consists of three small plates each perfectly matched with carefully selected premium beers and whiskey. Photos by Bradley Quinn

Vivienne Carville

Oran Kane and Laura Payne

Padraig McLaughlin, Jorge Lopez and Peter O’Connor

Tim Houston, ConchĂşr Moore, Dillon Osborne and Johnny Frazer

Kathryn McKeown and Gareth Rea

Richard and Brenda Buckley

Bill and Petra Wolsey

Shea Clarke, Shannan Rosie McKenna, Conor Boyle and Teale Stanton

Pravha Launch at The Perch Molson Coors announced the launch of Pravha in Northern Ireland with an event held in The Perch. Attendees enjoyed beer tasting, pizza, pretzels and giveaways. Pravha is a 4% ABV Czech style pilsner from the brewers of leading lager Staropramen and is now available exclusively on draught at select outlets across Northern Ireland. Photo by Press Eye

David McKenna and Andrew Porter

Sean Floyd, Michael Jones and Conor Murphy

Daniel Young, Aoife McLoughlin and Conor Rodgers

Nicole Selby, Megan Boylan, Mark McCormick and Mark McIlrath

Dougie McKenzie and Oisin McGowan

Michelle Fisher and Paul Hanna

Emma Friel and Brendan Hughes

Collette Weir and Tara Morgan

Connor Weir and Stephen Downie

Paddy Farren , Kirstie McMurray and Ryan Farren

John and Imelda McAlea

Country Comes to City Launch Howdy partners, Country Comes to City; the country festival, in association with The IMAC Group, is returning to Ebrington Square, Derry / Londonderry on Saturday 30th June. The official launch was held at The Belfray Country Inn and jiving fans were delighted to hear that Lisa McHugh, Mike Denver and Michael English will be topping the bill for this much anticipated six-hour, family friendly party this summer. Photos by Neil Anderson

John and Elaine Farren

Bill Anderson, Michael McCrudden and Paddy McLaughlin

John Farren and Kirstie McMurray

Michael Loughry, Adam McMooney, Kyle McCall and Zach McCall

Catherine Robinson and David Wallace

Boojum Launch Party Great news for Boojum lovers in South Belfast as the popular brand opened its 14th store in total and fifth in Belfast, on the Lisburn Road recently. The Mexican burrito bar, is rolling out of the city centre for the latest opening, establishing the first suburban location. Boojumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s famous burritos went down a treat with attendees. Photos by Filly Campbell David Maxwell, Blair Riley and Chris Truehl

Danielle Maxwell and Ryan Kee

John Boyle and Peter Elliott

Maeve Moreland, Chris Armstrong and Tara Mills

Keith Thompson, Julie Crozier and Tara Mills

Eastside Awards Winners of the second Eastside Awards in association with George Best Belfast City Airport have been announced at a glittering ceremony in the heart of East Belfast, hosted by BBC presenter Tara Mills. The top accolade for Outstanding Contribution was awarded to former world champion kickboxer, Billy Murray, who put East Belfast on the kickboxing world map. Photos by Michael Cooper Jonathan McAlpin, Robyn McWhirter and Tara Mills

Cllr Mairead Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Donnell , Julie Crozier and Tara Mills

Damian Campbell, Stephen Parr and Tara Mills

R E G BLOG CORNER

BY JUDY FROM FRENCH GREY LIFESTYLE

i! I’m Judy from French Grey Lifestyle. I’m a nurse by day but I’ve been blogging in my spare time for almost three years. I’m very excited to announce I’m going to become a first-time

mum in June. I love blogging because it’s a bit like a diary where I can talk about things I enjoy whilst connecting with others who share my interests. I tend to write about things within my comfort zone; interiors, travel and lifestyle, but I’ve decided to write about pregnancy. This is my first pregnancy, so I’ve been finding my feet over the past 26 weeks. As with all of life’s major milestones, there are a lot of things to considers, items to buy, and choices to make. I’ve created a little list of things that I have bought and used during my pregnancy that I want to share with you:

YesMum To Be Cards – Tiny Fist Bumps for Expectant Mamas Let’s be frank, pregnancy is tough - it’s exhausting growing a baby. It’s takes its toll, right from the day you pee on that stick. I felt a lot of apprehension in the beginning… constantly thinking ‘is everything okay?’ or ‘am I doing it right?’. As an advocate of positive mental attitude, ‘YesMum To Be’ cards have been invaluable to me. They come in a little box, you take one, read it aloud and embrace the message for the rest of the day. They have been a great way for me to overcome anxiety around pregnancy and birth.

Book – How to Grow a Baby and Push It Out

This book by Clemmie Hooper (a midwife and blogger) was the first thing I ordered when I found out I was pregnant. It’s a candid lighthearted read

Life as a first-time mum-to-be that provides real advice you can trust from a midwife and mum to four beautiful girls.

and should last for this pregnancy and any future pregnancies too.

Beauty – Elemis Japanese Camellia Body Oil Blend

Classes – Birthing Class (Daisy Foundation)

Since my bump started showing, I’ve been using a pregnancy-friendly body oil. It’s a lovely way to bond with bump as well as (hopefully!) dealing with the inevitable stretch mark situation. This product is a celebrity favourite and championed by Victoria Beckham. If it’s good enough for her it’s good enough for the rest of us.

Maternity wardrobe – Isabella Oliver’s Zadie jeans

I’d been lucky to be able to wear my normal jeans until around 18 weeks when bump just decided to appear almost overnight. Needing some new jeans ASAP, I ordered multiple pairs online from different brands but none fitted right. It was my sister who recommended the Isabella Oliver Zadie jeans. They are a great fit, don’t lose their shape and although at £99 they are little more than I’d usually spend on jeans, they were an investment

I’ve been attending the Daisy Foundation birthing class which is a combination of yoga as well as an education on how to have an active and positive birth. Daily classes run throughout Northern Ireland and UK and I attend the one in Ballymena. Sharing your pregnancy experience with others is a great way to promote positivity and relieve anxiety whilst also learning from some experts at the same time. I would highly recommend this to all mums-to-be. If you’d like to follow along on my journey to becoming a mum or if you’re into interiors and lifestyle you can catch me over on Instagram @french_grey_lifestyle or visit my blog www.frenchgreylifestyle.co.uk Much love,

NORTHERN MAN

Sweetcorn in progress

Jeff Meredith goes on a local staycation

Tomato crop growing in polytunnel

an you believe it’s the April issue of Northern Woman already? You’ve probably already planned your Easter break or activities to keep the kids busy, or maybe you’re planning your summer holiday. It’s certainly been a chilly enough spring to encourage you to book a break somewhere to feel some heat on your skin. For me city breaks are always the preferred option and that even includes a staycation in Belfast. There are so many new hotels opening in the city centre this year, including a Maldron on Brunswick Street, an EasyHotel on Howard Street, the George Best Hotel on Bedford Street, an AC Hotel by Marriott at the City Quays, a Hampton by Hilton on Hope Street, but the one creating the most buzz is the latest Hastings Hotels property, Grand Central Hotel on Bedford Street. The Grand Central will be the tallest hotel in the city and when finished will have the highest bar in Ireland. Have you seen any images of it yet? Check out my travel blog at totallytourists.com for a sneak peek. The old favourites in the city are getting ready

The day I signed up for my first allotment for the increased competition with the Fitzwilliam Hotel investing £2 million to increase capacity, the Clayton Hotel a £1.5 million investment and a continued refurbishment of the rooms in the Europa Hotel. We stayed in the Europa recently to experience what it has to offer and what a treat. It’s so nice to stay in a locally-owned hotel chain with worldclass standards while keeping everything local and personal, right from when you book direct at hastingshotels.com. You should consider it for a mini break in Belfast. Experiencing the city as a tourist is really quite special as long as you do what tourists do and visit Titanic Belfast, St George’s Market (say hello to me at my stall), jump on a bus tour or join a free daily walking tour or a free City Hall tour. Belfast is buzzing so have a staycation and enjoy. Have a great day and thanks for reading. n

WHY GET AN ALLOTMENT?

Have a look on your local council website, Belfast City Council have a full list of allotments and community gardens with contact numbers for waiting lists. The benefits: • Improve your diet • Relieve stress • Increase fitness • Learn new skills • Getting outdoors Find out more about growing your own: Follow my allotment social media accounts: @alotonmyplot www.farmgarden.org.uk www.allotment-garden.org www.growourown.blogspot.co.uk

Some winter maintenance

The herbs are coming home

The products of my labour

Growing sweetcorn from seeds

I cycle to the allotment and keep things eco-friendly

Green fingers Jeff Meredith’s year on the allotment

n a change of direction from my usual fashion feature, this month it’s time to talk about one of my hobbies; renting an allotment. I signed up for my first allotment at The Quarries Farm, Bangor in April 2017 and here I am, one year later, more excited than ever to get stuck into growing my own again in 2018. It’s been a year of learning and experimenting, with some disasters but

mostly successes along the way. First off, I learnt that weeds are insane, they just keep coming and need very regular maintenance. And the first disaster was not using waterproof ink on the plastic labels so after watering the newly-planted seeds a few times. I didn’t have a clue what was growing.

Year one was amazing and my first crops of potatoes, tomatoes, sweetcorn and onions were a big success. There are some things I’ll change this year, the first is switching the herb growing to big pots in my back gardens rather than a few miles away at the allotment. The second is to put aside more time to enjoy the growing space. Being outside in the country and growing your own is amazing for both your physical and mental health, not forgetting the satisfaction of growing all your own vegetables from seeds. This year will be different and even more beneficial because now that I’ve returned to my vegetarian diet, I’ll be attempting more self-sufficiency and also learning more about permaculture. I’d never heard of permaculture until I visited the Sunflowerfest farm community garden last year. Reading Growing your own doesn’t have material to be on an allotment though, you can for 2018 grow potatoes on your patio, herbs in pots… anything is possible. Top of the list of benefits is; the community of growers, sharing seeds, tips, produce, banter and positivity. n

— COMPETITION —

Win

A luxury spa break in The Heritage Killenard

e are giving you the chance to win a luxurious twonight break in The Heritage Killenard, in the rolling green countryside of county Laois. Relaxed and welcoming, The Heritage Killenard has a world-class spa, an extensive selection of luxury accommodation, a wide range of dining options, and a fine array of indoor and outdoor activities. Whether you choose to indulge in a restorative spa treatment in The Heritage Spa, a game of tennis on the resort’s court, a refreshing visit to the Health Club with its pool, Jacuzzi, sauna and steam rooms, or just to take some fresh air following the 5-kilometre walking and jogging track. Or maybe you’re in the mood for a movie in the cinema at The Heritage or simply to sink into a cosy couch with a good book – whichever you choose, you’ll find there is plenty to do in this lush countryside setting, whatever the weather. This is your chance to win a luxurious two-night break in The Heritage Killenard.

TO ENTER Simply complete the sentence: How big is the Heritage Killenard’s spa? Email your answer and contact details to competitions@northernwoman.co.uk before 5pm on Friday 27th April. T&Cs: The prize is subject to availability and is non-transferrable. INM T&Cs apply. You and a guest will stay for two nights with breakfast on each morning. Enjoy dinner on one evening in The Arlington Restaurant. The hotel has a 37,000 square foot awardwinning spa, where you can while away some time being thoroughly pampered. Start with their two hour Spa Experience, a sensory journey that maximises the benefits of all the Spa facilities leaving the body feeling profoundly alive and invigorated. You will both then experience a 60-minute ESPA treatment – choose between a relaxing massage or a facial. n For more information visit: www.theheritage.com or call +353 (0) 57 8645500.