Northern Woman December 2018 by Helen Wright

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CONTENTS DECEMBER 2018

Credit: Galvan London See page 21 for another glam velvet suit.

STYLE 10 JUST BOOTIFUL This season’s hottest boots 12 FROCKIN’ AROUND THE CHRISTMAS TREE Winter trends 14 HOW TO BUY UNDERWEAR She will actually like this Christmas 15 CHRISTMAS PARTY WEAR Party outfit inspiration FEATURES 22 5 MINUTES WITH THE DERRY GIRLS The cast chat to NW about season two, Rod Stewart and more 26 CAST ME Real people, real connections, and a really special Christmas campaign 28 MY 2020 CHRISTMAS SHOP STARTS NOW 30 CHRISTMAS CHANGE Then and now – a mum reflects 32 OFFICE PARTY POLITICS Navigating your way through the annual work do BEAUTY 36 PARTY PERFECT Aimee Connolly’s makeup guide 39 THE BEAUTY EDIT Makeup bag and skincare must-haves 40 NAILED IT Dazzling false nails 41 MINERAL MAKEUP HEALTH AND WELLNESS 43 SEASONAL SELF-CARE One local writer’s words of wisdom 46 HANGXIETY The psychological effects that can accompany a hangover 48 A LIFE LESSON FROM ‘LOVE ACTUALLY’ THIS CHRISTMAS 50 WHY NOT YOU? The ‘small but mighty steps’ that took one reader on a path of self-discovery

Cover image from Forever Unique www.foreverunique.co.uk

Credit: Lennon Courtney at Dunnes Stores. For more eighties-inspired metallics see page 13.

FESTIVE FOOD 54 DELUXE FOR LESS 56 LIDL’S CHRISTMAS COCKTAILS Delicious recipes 58 CHRISTMAS DINING WITH A DIFFERENCE Sal Hanvey cooks up an alternative festive feast 63 SHOP LOCAL Produce to sample this month LIVING 66 DOUBLE UP Designer doubles 68 THE £50 EDIT Treat your house-proud friends to these gorgeous gifts ESCAPE 73 ON THE PISTE Ski tips and deals 74 REVIEW: The Johnstown Estate Hotel and Spa, Meath

76 5 REASONS TO VISIT THE AC HOTEL BELFAST 77 REVIEW: Ciara Hedgcock gets festive at Maryville House 78 REVIEW: Balloo House, Killinchy IN EVERY ISSUE 80 MOVIE ROUNDUP 82 LET’S DRINK TO… Festive fizz 83 THE SOCIAL 5 Local events not to miss 84 LOCAL WEDDINGS 86 THE ALBUM Social pics 94 HERE & THERE 95 BLOGGER CORNER 96 NORTHEN MAN Jeff Meredith’s gift guide 98 WIN A stay at Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Sligo

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, Aly Harte, Bev Martin, Claire Craig, Charlotte McAuley, Eunice Nelson, Gurpreet Kaur, Jade Beecroft, Jeff Meredith, Paula Gracey, Sal Hanvey, 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.

Editor’s Letter

i all, welcome to our December issue. This month’s fashion editorial was shot in the Grand Central Hotel Belfast and, as always, we had the best of local talent working on it. Take a moment to appreciate the confetti pic (pg. 15) – with Aboard the Titanic only one confetti cannon and Boat Tour seconds to capture the photo – it was a funny, tense moment. Also in this issue, the Derry Girls cast takes time out from filming the second series to talk to NW journalist Róisín Carabine. And celebrity makeup artist Aimee Connolly shares her step-by-step guide to party perfect makeup. Christmas came early for Sal Hanvey who cooked up a festive feast in October, in order to have her creations photographed in time for this issue. Sal’s recipes feature some dairy-, wheat-, gluten- and yeast-free alternatives for readers who have dietary requirements. When life is going good, I think Christmas is the time when we really appreciate our good fortune, more so than any other time of year. Similarly, if we are going through a challenging time, it’s likely we will feel that more acutely during the festive season; I had that in mind when planning this month’s Health and Wellness section. Co Down writer Gurpreet Kaur shares the “small but mighty steps” she took to change her life for the better. Gurpreet shares her story and practical advice on how you too can improve your wellbeing.

Stylist Lesley Macaulay, MUA Samantha Weightman, model Rachel Jones, and hair stylist Nicole Kearns work behind the scenes at the Grand Central Hotel Belfast

Artist and writer Aly Harte reflects on what’s really important this Christmas, while journalist Claire Craig explains how to overcome hanxiety; the feelings of guilt, stress and worry that often follow a night out on the tiles. In addition to that, we also bring you beauty news, local events, interior décor gift ideas, travel reviews, Blogger Corner, and a lot more besides. Why not treat yourself or a loved one to an annual subscription to Northern Woman. The perfect stocking filler, get 11 issues of NW delivered for only £15, and the price includes a free he-shi Gold Foaming Mousse and Luxury Tanning Mitt worth £31.99. Wishing all of our readers a merry Christmas, have a good one. 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.

STYLE Styled by Lesley Macaulay assisted by Hope Macaulay, photography by Paul Ormonde McCabe assisted by Beth Macaulay, model Veronika Ge from CMPR, clothing from Peel Fashion, Belfast, hair by Paul Meekin, makeup Oonagh Boman. Location Ulster Reform Club.

WITH A HASTINGS HOTELS GIFT CARD

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£50 Shopping Voucher

ounded in 1987, Nomination continues to win our hearts with their romantic and modern jewellery collections. This Christmas Nomination offers a snowstorm of style with iconic winter collections featuring this season’s must-have look: silver glitter. Let is snow! The elegant snowflakes of the Winterland collection will take you from snowball fight to cocktail night without melting your charm, the sparkling white pavé centre will make you shimmer and shine in these glittering jewels. Complete the look with a Composable watch, and let the silver glitter dials illuminate every minute of your day. n

TO ENTER To help you get ready for the coolest moment of the year Nomination is offering 10 lucky winners a £50 shopping voucher. To enter the competition you need to answer the question below: In what year was Nomination founded? Email your answer and contact details to competitions@northernwoman.co.uk before 5pm on Friday 21 December. T&Cs: Shopping vouchers can be redeemed against any item of Nomination jewellery at any authorised Nomination retailer in Northern Ireland and are valid for 6 months from the date of issue. The shopping voucher cannot be redeemed for cash and it is not refundable. INM T&Cs apply.

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ith the shorter evenings and temperatures dropping further, we are spending more time snuggled up in our homes with the heating on. It’s the season of comfort and warmth and with natural gas you can be sure of a toasty night in. firmus energy connect thousands of homes outside greater Belfast to natural gas every year and in total have over 90,000 customers across NI. Angeline Murphy, Marketing Manager for firmus energy explains why homes are making the switch: “I have been working in the natural gas industry for almost ten years and I love hearing the feedback from customers who have made the switch away from oil. The one thing they love is having constant hot water – whenever they need it. The instant heat and ease of cooking on gas is a close second. “The advantage of having constant hot water for busy household’s means that’s homes never run out and everyone can have their long hot baths after a tough day. Natural gas is a real upgrade for any home. For me personally, my favourite feature is the smart controls and the fact that you can turn your heating on from your smart phone – from anywhere in the world. This means if you are out and about, you can boost the heating and always return to a toasty home.”

Tathia Tan Boots from Ted Baker £270

Black Cowboy Boots from Uterqüe £180

Berry Ankle Boots from Next, The Boulevard, Banbridge, was £55 now £22

Velora Melody Boots from Clarks, The Boulevard, Banbridge, was £110 now £80

Dual Texture Knee Boots from Charles and Keith £79

THE WILD WEST Calling all cowgirls, designers have taken a turn west. Buckle up in a low-heeled, twotone pair of cowboy-inspired boots.

JUST BOOTIFUL

Primer Buckle Strap Ankle Boot from Dune London was £105 now £84

Step into winter in this season’s hottest boots Black Hatty ankle boots from Kurt Geiger, The Boulevard, Banbridge, was £119 now £89

Brown Ankle Boots from Pavers, The Boulevard, Banbridge, was £79.99 now £54.99

CHUNKY CHIC

Comfort is key with a cosy pair of chunky ankles boots that will see you through wintery weather.

Mango

Black Suede Walcott from Van Dal £110

Croc Back Detail Cuban Ankle Boots from Lipsy £65

High White Boots from Uterqüe £180

Round Heel Boot from M&S, The Boulevard, Banbridge, was £45 now £27

MOCK CROC

Crocodile prints roamed free across the catwalk shows this season as designers went wild for a mock croc heel.

Tan Twist Leather Ankle Boots from Kurt Geiger, The Boulevard, Banbridge, was £125 now £99

Moschino H&M collection from H&M £149

Patent Square Toe Ankle Boots from & other stories £85

Winter Capsule Leather Mountain Ankle Boots from Massimo Dutti £139

Rosewood Double Buckle Calf Boot from Dune London was £160 now £128

A WHITER SHADE OF PALE

The perfect transitional footwear, a pale boot will see you through from autumn to winter, or winter to spring. A white, cream or nude boot is a more daring choice than black, for a look that instantly feels more styled and adventurous.

Sparkling showstoppers If you were tempted to pull out the classic LBD from the back of the wardrobe this Christmas and call it a day, you ‘re missing out on a fun look. This party season it’s all about human glitter-ball chic. Opt for sequin stripes in a rainbow of colours. You can’t fail to make an entrance with this showstopping trend, so why not go for it?

Rainbow line sequin bucket bag from Oliver Bonas £29.50

Dress from River Island £150

Teal sequin pencil skirt from Dorothy Perkins £28

Red Herring dress from Debenhams £65

Ombre sequin mini dress from Miss Selfridge £89

Frockin’ around the Christmas tree BY LUCY NORRIS

Party season is here and we’ve got you prepped with our guide to the biggest trends in winter fashion Turn heads in tartan

Red tartan skinny cropped trousers from River Island £35

Blazer from Zara £89.99

The Scottish print is making a massive comeback this party season and we’re on board. The colour pallet adds a traditional festive feel to any outfit, and the classic sharp lines flatter all shapes and sizes. The versatility of the trend means anything goes and the high street is full of tartan trousers, blazers, jackets, coats, skirts, and two-pieces at the moment.

Co-ord tartan top from V by Very £35 Red tartan coat from F&F £39

Pewter metallic jean from Sosander £49

Eighties dancing queen The eighties are calling and they want you to steal their clothes. Oh yes, you heard it right, grab those shoulder pads, don those foil metallic shirts, crazy clashing prints, and big hair, and hit the town. Stand out from the crowd in boldly coloured bandage dresses and shimmering lurex ruffles. Balmain gave its stamp of approval and we definitely second it!

Shirt from Zara £39.99

Silver metallic high neck dress from Wallis £50

Shoes from Bimba y Lola £215

Brown is the new black Studio AW18 shirt from H&M £49.99

A new tone is dominating this season and its time everyone ditched the classic black for its archenemy - brown. An easily adaptable trend, incorporate the colour into your party wear with a glossy duster coat, flared trousers or teddy jacket.

Stone vinyl trench from Next £70

Flare trousers from Zara £39.99 Jasper Conran skirt from Debenhams £75

Brown shearling jacket from I Saw It First £60

A fringe affair Thought you’d left fringe behind after the summer season came and went? Think again as it’s back with a vengeance to liven up your Christmas look. Add subtle touches with fringe tassel earrings or go big with a 1950’s-style flapper frock.

Joanna Hope beaded fringe lace dress from JD Williams £165 Sienna fringe duffle bag from Accessorize £30

Burgundy tassel earrings from Next £10

Dress from River Island £100

Black Jardin Rose Body from Reger by Janet Reger £34

Aliza Reger

How to buy underwear she will actually like The queen of lingerie and Debenhams’ designer, Aliza Reger, shares her advice for gifting underwear this Christmas

Wine Lace-Up Body from Reger by Janet Reger £28

PEEK IN HER DRAWERS

Look in her underwear drawer to see what is already there, that will give you a really good idea of what she actually likes. See what sort of bra she tends to go for – is it a T-shirt bra or a padded push up? You’ll get the idea quickly. If she is a white cotton girl, there’s no point in buying black lace. Buy a gift that she will love – remember you are not just buying the underwear for yourself.

GET THE SIZE RIGHT

Look at the size of more than one bra. Look at quite a few bras and then you will know what size she typically wears.

TASTEFUL WRAPPING

Wrapping is very important. Rather than handing the underwear to her in a store bag with the receipt in it, get a little gift box, wrap it up and make it look special as this shows that you have put thought into the gift.

AND REMEMBER

You can’t go far wrong with something in ivory, nude, pink, or dare I say it – black. The Reger by Janet Reger for Debenhams collection is fantastic for gifting and that includes self-gifting; we should all buy ourselves something for Christmas too.

Bra £26 and Knickers £12.50 from Reger by Janet Reger

Black Lace Mesh Mia Padded Plunge Bra £26, Black Lace Mia Knickers £12.50 from Reger by Janet Reger

Stylist Lesley Macaulay selects seven outits to see you through the festive season... Shot on location at the Grand Central Hotel, Belfast

Dress from My Sister’s Closet, Belfast, £189 ; sandals from Karen Millen, Victoria Square, £160; earrings from Cubana Boutique, Belfast, £69; Bag from Daisy Mae, Coleraine, £51

Dress £160 and boots £225 from Karen Millen, Victoria Square; earrings from Cubana Boutique, Belfast, £49

Top £44.99 and faux leather trousers £49.99 from Stable Lane Boutique, Coleraine; coat from Rio Brazil, Victoria Square, £119.99; earrings from Cubana Boutique, Belfast, £59; Vivienne Westwood shoes stylist’s own

Polka dot dress £59.99, petticoat £39, shoes £89.99 and bag £99.99 from Daisy Mae, Coleraine; earrings £22 from Labels Lisburn Road, Belfast

Dress from Karen Millen, Victoria Square, ÂŁ175; earrings from Cubana Boutique, Belfast, ÂŁ49

Dress £235, faux fur shrug £109 from Dixons, Coleraine; earrings from Cubana Boutique, Lisburn Road, £69; Venetian mask stylist’s own

Velvet jacket £325 and velvet trousers £175 from L.K.Bennett, Victoria Square; faux fur £169 from My Sister’s Closet, Belfast; earrings £22 from Labels Lisburn Road, Belfast

– TEAM CREDITS – – STYLING– Lesley Macaulay 078 6680 9031 www.instagram.com/lesley.macaulay

– MODEL – Rachel Jones, ACA Models 028 9080 9809 acamodels.com

– MAKEUP – Samantha Weightman 078 6631 5279 www.samanthaweightman.com

– PHOTOGRAPHY – Brendan Gallagher 079 0063 8365 www.brendangallagher.net

– HAIR – Nicole Kearns, Zuni Hairdressing 028 9033 2345 www.zunihairdressing.com

– LOCATION – Grand Central Hotel , Bedford Street, Belfast 028 9023 1066 www.grandcentralhotelbelfast.com

5 minutes with the

DERRY GIRLS 22

The cast of Channel 4’s multi award-winning, smash hit sitcom discuss series two and Aunt Sarah’s fling with Rod Stewart, Orla dying and murder at Our Lady Immaculate College BY RÓISÍN CARABINE

ver since Channel 4’s comingof-age comedy Derry Girls sauntered onto our screens back in early January we knew (along with 2.5 million other ‘wans’) it was going to be a huge hit – despite initial fears of being totally scundered. With its witty oneliners, foul-mouthed banter and hilarious, sharp-tongued put-downs all delivered in quick-fire Norn-Iron accents it has proved daft, darkly humorous and well, pure geg. It seems that there’s a lot of comedy mileage still left in the Troubles – especially when it involves clueless, have-a-go, scheming 16-year-old girls and a ‘wee English fella’. Filming has already begun on series two (praise be!) with promises from writer Lisa McGee of “bigger, badder, madder and more chaotic” antics from the crew with the first ceasefire and Bill Clinton’s 1995 visit to Derry as the backdrop. A few weeks ago we caught up with the series’ stars Saoirse-Monica Jackson (Erin),

Nicola Coughlan (Clare), Louisa Harland (Orla), Jamie-Lee O’Donnell (Michelle) and Dylan Llewellyn (James) at Queen’s Film Theatre 50th birthday celebrations. Here’s what they had to say.

NW: You’re about to start shooting the second series of Derry Girls. What have you learned about the fates of your characters? Jamie-Lee: Michelle is still gonna be the trouble maker of the group even though the rest of them are so easily led. Lisa has done a brilliant job with all our characters so all the wee bits of us that people seem to enjoy are definitely back. Dylan: Us all dancing at the end of series one was a very powerful moment and I felt that my character was finally one of the family, one of the clique. I definitely want more of that in series two. NW: The last episode ended with Clare coming out as a lesbian, are we going to see her get a girlfriend? Nicola: You’ll see it represented definitely. Her being gay was something I knew about from when I was first auditioning for the character so it was always in my mind throughout the last series. I think Lisa wrote it really well because she’s not the

stereotype. She’s not the one you would expect. I get a lot of messages from teenage girls saying they’re really glad that she’s gay and that she’s allowed to be girly.

NW: How is Erin going to cope with that? Saoirse: A lot of Erin is that representation of a selfish teenager and everything is about her, so even though Clare is Erin’s best friend it won’t really matter to Erin I imagine in any scenario how important her happiness is, it will always be about how much limelight is taken away from Erin. Maybe as the series progresses she might have a bit of maturity, but I highly doubt it. NW: Are we going to see the introduction of more characters? Louisa: Yeah, Rod Stewart. NW: What??? Louisa: Me and Kathy (Kiera Clarke who plays Aunt Sarah) suggested that Rod Stewart be my dad. That would be our dream scenario. We just think it would be so random. Sarah went to a concert and slept with Rod Stewart and it turns out that he’s my dad. Continued on 24 ➤

NW: Are you guys involved in the script at all? Louisa: No, but I certainly make suggestions. NW: Really? Nicola: Yeah, we’ve all made some terrible suggestions to Lisa which she just ignores. She (Louisa) really wants to shave her head. Louisa: I said to Lisa I can do that, for real, on camera. I also suggested maybe dying. Nicola: Louisa’s suggestions are quite dark. Dylan: Me and Nicola suggested that Sister Michael has a murder mystery episode where she discovers murders and tries to solve them but she can’t be bothered and half just wants to go home. Jamie-Lee: I suggested going on holiday, Spain or somewhere, just so we could film foreign. NW: Might we see an Inbetweeners-type episode then where you go abroad? Saoirse: The charm of the show is that it’s

based in Derry and the fact that these girls haven’t left. Louisa: Yeah, it has to be realistic to a certain degree. It’s been done before and we want to be original. Nicola: We’re so used to seeing TV shows were the kids are like: “we can’t wait to get out of here” but that’s not the case in Derry Girls. They love living there, they love their lives.

NW: Obviously the series is about a group of friends. Was it important the five of you establish a rapport straight away? Jamie-Lee: Definitely. We all lived together during filming so we’ve become really good friends and see each other socially all the time. NW: What’s the worst thing that could happen your characters as a group of friends? Jamie-Lee: For them to fall out.

Nicola: They’re kind of terrible to each other on a daily basis but to think of one of them being replaced would be awful. Louisa: Or to die. NW: Hmmm. You’re quite obsessed with that, aren’t you? NW: The series is set in the ’90s but how do you think your characters would cope nowadays with social media? Nicola: I think it would be good for Clare. I can’t imagine what coming out in Derry in the ’90s would have been like. It was a very brave thing for her to do and so just this awareness that there are more people out there would be a good thing. Louisa: She’d also probably have a GoFundMe page raising money for Kamal. Saoirse: I don’t think it would be a good thing for Erin because she’s constantly comparing herself to other people. If she was allowed on the platform of social

Quote unquote The best one-liners and quotes from series one “Come on then ball ache, are you introducin’ yourself or what?” – Michelle to James “A half load goes against everything I stand for, you know that da.” – Ma Mary on not finding enough clothes for a dark wash

Louisa Harland, Nicola Coughlan and Dylan Llewellyn

“I don’t know about the rest of ye but I’m not enjoying this bomb. I’ve an appointment at Tropicana at 12.” – Aunt Sarah “We got the gist. They ran out of spuds, everyone was ragin.” – Michelle on the Irish famine “Ach Fionnuala. What about ye? I thought I could smell vinegar.”– Aunt Sarah to the chip shop owner “They’ve been playing the same three songs since 1795. What do they need to rehearse for?” – Ma Mary “Have you nothing to say about this you slack Southern shite?” – Granda Joe “If I was having an illicit rendezvous with my mistress I’m not sure that the supermarket that my father-in-law is doing the big shop in would be the best place for it really.” – Gerry “I know how daunting resist examinations can be, so if anyone is feeling anxious, worried or maybe you just want a chat, please, please do not come crying to me.” – Sister Michael

media it would either bring an intensity and romantic idea of herself where she’d probably have a fake online persona or would completely crumble her. Nicola: Erin would definitely have a pen name, something French. Orla would have a blogging show where she’d do parkour or something crazy. Derry Girls returns to Channel 4 January 2019

Siobhan McSweeney, Jamie Lee O’Donnell and Nicola Coughlan

Local Faces Real people, real connections, and a really special Christmas campaign

orthern Woman had the pleasure of taking part in Cast Me Sprucefield, as part of the judging panel. The campaign called on the people of Northern Ireland to

Mavis Conlon and Mary Button

µµThe whole experience was very enjoyable with good makeup tips. Patrick did my makeup and l was asking him what he was putting on me, especially on my eyes (just me being nosy). I was getting my tuppence worth out of the day!∑∑ Mavis, Killough

become the faces of the centre. Hundreds of entries were received, then applications were whittled down to 15 home-grown faces and one beloved pet puppy who were to become the stars of Sprucefield’s Christmas promotion.Introducing the ‘Faces of Sprucefield’...

µµI was delighted when my best friend Mavis and I were chosen to be a part of the shoot. Walking in to Khara’s photography studio felt surreal. I loved wearing the new M&S Holly Willoughby coat which had yet to be released. I enjoyed sharing the experience via my blog: @maryblovestea. Everyone has been so positive towards this 71-year-old granny from a tiny coastal village in County Down!∑∑ Mary, Killough

µµI heard the competition advert on the radio and thought – why not enter, wouldn’t it just be so wonderful to see little Leo as part of the campaign, and what a great family keepsake. On the day, I loved getting my makeup done and Leo enjoyed all the attention, and lights and flashes in the studio.∑∑ Gemma, Moira

Jasmine and Honey

µµMy Mummy told me about the competition and that they were looking for little girls and their pets. I thought it would be great to enter with Honey. I enjoying the day with my puppy and getting dressed up for the camera.∑∑ Jasmine, Belfast

µµI entered Charlie in the competition as he is my ray of sunshine, and I felt that everyone should have a share of his sunshine. Charlie particularly had fun when Khara played the Baby Shark Song during his photoshoot, everyone joined in doing the actions.∑∑ Sarah Dalzell, Aghalee

Gemma Cheung, Ryan Dougan and Leo Dougan

Charlie McCusker

Mary O’Connor from Lisburn, Catriona Evans from Dunmurry, and Seainin Loughlin from Lisburn

µµWe were absolutely delighted to get the opportunity to be pampered. A big shout out and thanks to; Rebecca McKinney who selected our stylish outfits; Paddy McGurgan who applied our make-up; Stephen McCusker for styling our hair; and photographer Khara Pringle for making the shoot relaxing and fun.∑∑

µµI entered the competition for a bit of fun. I had a lovely, relaxing and fun day out with my Mum and cousin.∑∑ Seainin, Lisburn

µµI enjoyed meeting all the lovely girls and guys involved in the day; it was such a good giggle. The fizz and treats from M&S were a bonus too!∑∑

Mary, Lisburn

Catriona, Dunmurry

µµThe whole experience from start to finish was fantastic and surreal. Everyone went out of their way to make us feel relaxed, beautiful and elegant; shape or size didn’t come into it. Most importantly, I shared the experience with my sisters.∑∑

µµThe competition was a means of getting experience and confronting something new like modelling. Meeting new people and getting to know them, was another great reason to sign myself up.∑∑

Michael, Ballymaguigan

Wendy, Ahoghill

µµI enjoyed having the experience of life as a model, getting all dressed up and feeling glam. I loved having my hair and makeup done professionally; not to mention all the fun and laughs with everyone.∑∑ Diane, Ahoghill

µµWendy entered us, because this is so far outside my comfort zone that I wouldn’t even dream of it! After the initial feelings of dread disappeared I enjoyed the whole experience something I thought I’d never say! The team were amazing and the whole experience was fun.∑∑ Julie, Ahoghill

Julie Leetch, Diane Lee and Wendy Fleck

µµI entered the competition to experience something different and exciting. I have lost weight and I felt like this was the perfect time to try something new and celebrate my achievements.∑∑

Clairissa Wethers, Derrymacash

Michael McIvor and Clairissa Wethers

My 2020 Christmas shop starts now… As we hit the high streets this month, looking for last-minute presents, some savvy shoppers are already sorted. In fact, these local families will soon start looking ahead to NEXT Christmas. Jade Beecroft reports.

ave you got your Christmas shopping done yet? That’s the burning question in offices, coffee shops, bars, hair salons and outside the school gates this month. While some folk smile smugly, saying they’ve been buying stocking fillers and tins of Quality Street since September, others are grimly preparing to brave the Black Friday mayhem, or – even worse – a mad dash around the shops on Christmas Eve. But while many of us only switch on our festive antenna once we’ve seen the back of Halloween, some women have actually been preparing for December 25th since…

well… last December 25th! They start their Christmas shopping in the Boxing Day sales, take advantage of bank holiday special offers, and are always on the lookout for bargains. Too much foresight? Or a brilliant way to slash the stress of Christmas? For Caitriona Ni Laoi, from Spruce Hill in Belfast, it’s the former. The 32-yearold mum-of-two started her Christmas shopping in back in January, and she’d got her kids’ presents sorted by March. Her loft is piled high with toys and clothes; including gifts for her family, parents, nieces and nephews, and fiancé Shane Bolster. Caitriona explains: “I love Christmas, so being prepared means I can just relax and enjoy it. My birthday is on December 20th so I don’t want to end up spending all my birthday money on Christmas presents.” Caitriona’s system is simple. She looks for winter clothes in the January sales, and shops online for toy bargains for her children Georgie, two, and Jude, one. “January is a great time to pick up things

like Christmas pyjamas and bedding for the following year,” she explains. “It’s also ideal to find clothes for male relatives because men’s fashions don’t change that much. “By March the spring/summer collections will be out, which is no good if you’re looking for clothes and accessories for the following December.”

µµWe’re a normal family with a normal budget∑∑ The savvy mum reckons her foresight saves her hundreds of pounds each year. “You can get some really good deals if you shop around, especially on things like toys,” she explains. “For example, my kids love Paw Patrol and In The Night Garden, so I shopped for those toys in the sales. Now I’m seeing adverts on TV in the run-up to Christmas for the similar toys at least double the price. “We’re a normal family with a normal

TIPS FOR STARTING NEXT YEAR’S SHOPPING EARLY

Caitriona Ni Laoi’s loft

budget. Setting aside even £50-80 a month at the start of the year for Christmas really helps. And once you get into the habit of doing it, you’ll find it makes balancing your finances so much easier. “We’re never skint in January because we don’t blow the whole of our December pay packets on Christmas. We spread it through the year.” As most of us hurry round the high street or battle to find the best online deals, Caitriona only has her food shopping left to worry about. “I start my food shopping around November, and pick a few bits up each week,” she says. “Things like tins of chocolates and biscuits will keep for months, but obviously you have to get your fresh produce for Christmas dinner the week before, there’s no avoiding that!” For mum-of-two Sarah Griffiths, from County Fermanagh, maternity leave has allowed her to get ahead this year. She gave birth to her second child, Daisy Rebecca, in July, and has been using her time off work as a BT call handler productively. “I actually used to hate Christmas,” she laughs. “It can be quite a lonely time of year. But when our son Dexter came along two years ago, that changed; I think kids make Christmas really special. “I’d have always been a very last minute shopper though, rushing around in December panic-buying. My husband Danny’s birthday is in December so that’s an added pressure too!” Sarah began her maternity leave in June, and realised that by December her wage would drop, meaning her usual last minute shopping spree was out of the question. “I knew I had to get ahead,” she explains. “So when Daisy was about three weeks old I starting shopping online while I was sat up doing night feeds. “It actually gave me time to research things and shop around for the best deals. Before I knew it, I’d got it all sorted!” Now Sarah says she’s a reformed Christmas shopper, vowing to never leave it until the last minute again. “I think I might start next year’s shopping in the January

Caitriona, Shane, Georgie and Jude sales,” she laughs. “It really does make life easier to plan ahead and I’m sure I’ve saved money too.” It’s often men who dash round the high street in a panic on Christmas Eve. But now even some blokes are also learning to stock up early.

µµWe’re never skint in January because we don’t blow the whole of our December pay packets on Christmas∑∑ Dad-of-three Adam Martin, a civil servant from Craigavon, is another savvy shopper who starts bargain hunting in January. “It’s a great time to pick up cut-price decorations for the following year,” he says. “I also buy winter clothes for the kids –

Sarah, Daisy and Dexter

• Shop around. Starting early eliminates the need for panic buying and means you can browse the internet for weeks or even months to find the best deals. • In January, make a list of everyone you need to buy for and what sort of things they like. It’s so much easier when the previous Christmas is still fresh in your mind. Then keep your list handy as you shop. • For people who prefer money or vouchers, start a kitty and add to it each month. Keep in mind that Groupon deals have expiry dates too. • If you like your house to be nicely decorated for Christmas, you’ll find bargains on sofas, paint and decorations in the winter and Easter sales. You’ve then got the whole summer to do any renovations. • You may think you’ve found a bargain, but always keep your receipt. That way, if you spot the same item cheaper elsewhere, you can return it and make the saving. • When price comparing, don’t forget sites like Gumtree and Ebay. Remember that kids don’t see the value of gifts, they just enjoy the excitement of unwrapping them.

making sure to get a size larger for each of them! “I avoid getting too many toys early though because my kids are at the age where they ask for the latest must-have toy that all their friends at school are talking about.” The 35-year-old is dad to Taylan, 10, Skyla, eight, and Aveya, two. He says that starting the shopping early gives him more time to enjoy the festivities with the kids and his partner Kirsty Rowley. “I loved Christmas as a kid, but as you grow up the shine comes off it a bit,” he explains. “When I became a father for the first time, I felt like a child again when Christmas came round. “I get so excited on Christmas Eve…. I want to go up to bed before the kids do! “We aim to have everything ready, the tree up and decorated, the cards written, and all the presents bought and wrapped, by December 1st. That way we can just relax and enjoy family time. “We have so many little traditions. For example, Skyla and I like to put our pyjamas on, make hot chocolate and watch the Snowman. If you’ve got your shopping out of the way then it gives you time to make memories.”

Christmas CHANGE Then and now – a mum reflects BY CLARE BOWIE

emember when you used to get bored of lie-ins and spent Christmas time inhaling Quality Street to fend off your hangover? *Wipes a tear from haggard face* It’s fair to say that Christmas changes just a tad when you become a mum – here’s how: n The run up to Christmas used to be about sparkly shoes, LBDs and multiple nights out, but now it’s more about assembling Nativity costumes from tea-towels and toilet rolls, while mentally calculating roast potato/parsnip ratios, and making sure everyone actually has matching shoes on. n You used to worry about which Jo Malone candle you wanted the most or if you should go for the “Charlotte Tilbury Limited Edition Glowing Pretty Skin Palette” and now all your money goes to Argos, Amazon and Smyths. Your entire “new dreamkitchen” budget is now spent on slow-rising squishies, lumps of plastic, lego and a family ticket to the Panto. *pops a tin of gin and tonic into handbag to make it through the matinee* n When you said you’d go out with your friends for a Christmas night out you thought it was pretty clear that you all meant in January or February, because none of you will ever be organised enough

to book a table for Christmas dinner in October when you’re up to your ears in skeletons, killer clowns and pumpkins. #notgoingtohappen. Also, it’s a bit too loud in town at Christmas, taxis are like mythical unicorns, and seriously, does noone wear warm clothes anymore, it’s December for crying out loud! n Christmas Eve used to be a big night out in town, but now you spend it silently installing batteries, artfully nibbling mince pies in a Santa-esque manner, building flat-packed doll’s houses and running up and down the stairs approximately 47 times, whilst holding your breath and praying that you don’t meet a child en-route. Plus, you will definitely forget something. Don’t

worry, you’ll find it in a corner of the car boot next April. n You had no idea that Christmas was so competitive between parents. Which Santa are you visiting? Did you bake the teachers a batch of homemade ginger bread people with personalised inspirational messages written in icing? Did you bond with your children when you made their tepee trees and individual non-sugar advent calendars? Umm, is giving your kids chocolate for breakfast during December not a thing anymore? #missedthatmemo n You used to exchange gifts with friends but now you don’t even have the time or inclination to write a Christmas card. So, instead, you exchange horror stories about

being extorted by L.O.L Surprises and the agony of removing slime from all of your carpets. You cheers to actually making it out in February for your ‘Christmas get together’ and start a WhatsApp group about your next night out which “has to be soon” (which means September). n You used to love a to-do list but now it’s all about the Santa list campaign. You have to plant appropriate present ideas in their heads for weeks, and then, hover surreptitiously behind your children when they actually write the list, taking sneaky pictures on your phone to record what they want. Then, you have to spend the next four weeks reminding them what they wanted at the time of publication of the letter so they

don’t get whimsical and decide that they actually hate Our Generation Camper Sweet Stop Ice Cream Trucks, two days before Christmas. n You used to spend Christmas morning relaxing, opening a few gifts, taking a leisurely shower and putting on all of your new clothes, body lotions and make-up before settling down to a dinner that someone else had made. Those were the best days of your life and you didn’t even realise! *swigs baileys from the bottle, removes potato peelings and chocolate coins from hair, whilst carrying a small child on hip and basting turkey* n Your insta-worthy Christmas tree used to be so, so nice; you had one with glass

baubles and white lights as well as a skandibranch theme in the hallway. Now, your biggest achievement will be when the tree stays up for more than 24 hours, or if any of the decorations near the bottom are not flung off before Christmas Eve. n Your priorities are so different now. To be totally honest, your favourite gift is the espresso coffee machine and you can’t help but think how extremely useful a small set of screw drivers would be for toy cars; and God knows it would be handy to have a spare pair of nail clippers in your travel toiletry bag, along with that mini sewing kit. It’s been such a long day but New Year’s Eve will be easier. If only you could stay awake until midnight.

Office PARTY politics BY EUNICE NELSON

Navigating your way through the annual work Christmas do

have been a stay-at-home mum for the last nine years so my work dos mainly consist of counting down the hours to bedtime and breaking out the box sets. So why am I writing a piece on office parties, I hear you cry. Well there was a time when, to quote a very good friend: “I wasn’t drowning in dirty nappies and caffeine tablets”. Yes folks, I used to have an office job and yearly parties with the work squad. Office parties always sound like a fairly mundane affair but one wrong move and

you can end up as fodder for the office gossips until next Christmas. So if you don’t want the night to end up like an episode of Snog, Marry, Avoid? you had better be prepared. Here are a few stages to watch out for:

Shock and awe

Your jaw is almost brushing the carpet as you take in all your co-workers in their non-work clothes. It’s just like the time you were seven and saw your teacher in the supermarket for the first time. What

business does your teacher have leaving the school anyway, never mind wearing trainers? Now you find yourself staring at Joan from administration. Normally in conservative blouses and respectable skirts, tonight she is sporting thigh high boots and a corset that’s so tight you can almost count her ribs through it. Then just as you’re recovering from the shock of ‘sensible Joan’ morphing into Dita Von Teese, you are almost blinded by the Hawaiian shirt coming your way. It’s Noel from human

wine at the table, no, these are just really wonderful people and you never noticed it before tonight. Now you just need a few minutes to update the calendar on your phone since you’ve gladly accepted invitations to at least three kids’ parties and possible a Bar Mitzva. It might be time to step away from the wine.

the other parties in the venue have stopped to watch the carnage, and if you look really carefully you can spot the exact moment that the person doing the raging sobers, just enough to realise what’s happening. Now you can look forward to at least three months of awkwardness over the coffee machine and avoiding eye contact in the halls.

Rage

Amore

If you are neither the target of the rage nor the one dishing it out, this can be quite an entertaining turn of events. One minute everyone is on the dance floor doing Rock the Boat, the next some disgruntled employee is spewing out every insult that they have stored up over the year. It’s like a car crash, you know you shouldn’t look but it’s impossible to look away. The usually quiet receptionist is shaking one fist at her manager while the other hand grips her G&T like a grenade she’d like to toss at her unsuspecting nemesis. Even

resourses tipping back enough liquid courage to make you wish you were doing overtime tonight.

Office desks aren’t just made sturdy so they can support photocopiers and printers. They also need to be strong enough to hold up those colleagues who get a little frisky during the party season. Everyone around the table has been pretending not to notice that the office cougar has been inching her hand up the new lads’ leg all night but there’s no hiding the whispers and giggles when the pair finally disappear together. Maybe it will be the start of a beautiful romance but it’s more likely to result in awkwardness, embarrassment, and possibly a sexual harassment seminar that all employees will be forced to attend. Thankfully you would never be that foolish, although the mail guy does look pretty tasty when he’s not bringing you paperwork.

Glee

Words of advice

Right now you’re about as happy as Rudolf was when Santa came calling for him. The drinks are flowing, and tongues and inhibitions have become quite a bit looser. So for you and the other gossip hounds around the table, it’s a treasure trove of information.

Warmth

Annoying Marie who shares your cubicle is actually a total legend. In fact you now love all your colleagues so much that you are at this very moment setting up a work WhatsApp group so you and your new BFF’s can have brunch at least once a month. Surely it couldn’t be the gallons of free

So as you and all your colleagues are excitedly booking the party please try to remember the following. You will have to face these people on Monday morning. Make sure that it’s in a public space with lots of witnesses as this will (hopefully) keep the craziness to a minimum. Just because it’s a free bar it doesn’t mean that you can recoup for the bonus you missed out on this year. And last but most importantly, snap pictures and gather evidence like you are auditioning for a part in CSI Miami, who knows when all that information will come in handy for blackmailing - I mean influencing management.

PROFILE:

Ibrand Searching for the perfect Christmas present? Ashleigh Averell from Ibrand might just have the exact thing you are looking for...

 ADVERTORIAL

ast year Carrickfergus local, Ashleigh Averell, left her marketing job in search of a “new creative adventure”. “I began experimenting with garment printing in my father’s workshop,” the 24-year-old entrepreneur says. “Following a little personal investment in machinery, production began.” “We have two sides to our business. Ibrand provides garment printing and embroidery to local brands and ones further afield, such as He-Shi, Fragrance Direct, and Cosmetics 27 which is based in France.” “We also have a subsidiary called Treasure Gifts, which provides one-off personalised items for Christmas, birthdays and weddings. We are the same team, with the same machinery, and the same dedication and love is put into each order. In essence, we take your ideas whether they are for uniforms, merchandise, or a simple birthday gift, and bring them to life.” Ibrand stock a range of products to suit all ages, Ashleigh suggests gifting the following to your loved ones this Christmas: “Our pashminas make a fantastic gift for mums. My own mother has asked for a pashmina scarf in every colour. These are very soft and so versatile for use throughout the year. “Consider a weekend bag for dads. Weekend bags are essential for a little trip away, and we have a range of faux leather and canvas bags to suit any man. “For kids, our personalised bobble hats

are so cosy and on trend at the moment. Our personalised yoga mats are perfect for the friend who loves me-time at a yoga studio.” Ashleigh is obviously passionate about what she does, and her hard work and dedication has paid off. She says: “Treasure Gifts products in particular

has really clicked with an international audience with over 60% of our shipments being outside of the UK. We have built relationships with customers all over the world, who bring us the most inspirational and unique ideas to create. “One of my favourite orders was for a set of personalised robes for an Italian bride-tobe and her bridal party. I love that my items are featured all over the world on special occasions.”

For gift inspiration visit: www.treasuregifts.co.uk and www.ibrandeverything.co.uk. Call: 0800 1073 296, or email: Ashleigh@ ibrandeverything.co.uk

BEAUTY

Credit: Lily Lolo

GOLD IS A GIVEN

BROWS ARE BEST

PARTY PERFECT

No party look is complete without your brows. For our model Raiane’s brows, I used MAC Brow pencil in Spiked which is the perfect shade for her colouring and the colour is not too dark. Whenever you’re working with pencil make sure to do a ‘brush up’ motion on the brows, so that the product flows effortlessly. MAC Spiked £16

Celebrity makeup artist Aimee Connolly shares her step-by-step guide to Christmas party make-up

s my last edit of the year it would be rude not to include a party look for the festive season. Before you even glance across I am sure you can guess that yes, gold glitter and a bold lip are absolutely included, and most excitingly – so is my newly-launched Custom Edition.

For more from Aimee visit: www.instagram.com/aimeeconnolly_com or www.facebook.com/AimeeConnollyMU

SCULPTED YOUR WAY

This a shot from my latest campaign for our Custom Edition which allows you to pick your own palette to create a bespoke look. You start with an empty palette and build it with whatever four pans you like. The combination (pictured) is: 1.3 Deep Bronze, 2.3 Golden Hue cream highlight, 3.3 Golden Glow powder highlight, 4.3 Pure Peach Blusher. I love asculpted, glowing look which is perfect for every season. Sculpted Palette £39 (for palette and four pans)

Whenever I used to do occasion make-up, I could nearly guess how many of my clients would ask for a gold glitter, it’s a seasonal must-have at this stage. I do love a bit of sparkle but you don’t need too much. The Mac Dazzleshadow is the perfect option because the shimmer won’t fall and it dries quickly too. Dazzleshadow Liquid from Mac £16.50

LONG LASHES

Nothing adds more instant drama to the eyes than a pair of lashes. You can choose between a softer side lash or a full strip depending on the type of look you want; both will totally transform the eye. For this look, I have used side lashes which are the perfect fit for definition and won’t close the eye.

BOLD IS BACK

The season of a red lip is here. I have used a winter red for this look; firstly because it complements Raiane’s colouring a bit better, and secondly because I find this tone is sometimes less scary for those that are fearful of a red pout. I have just used my liner all over the lip so that it lasts longer. Sculpted Pink Edition Lip Quad shade ‘Rouge’ £25

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Gold Foaming Mousse and Luxury Tanning Mitt Get festive party ready with he-shi Dark Foaming Mousse and Luxury Velvet Tanning Mitt. Brought to you by the tanning experts, this luxurious self-tanning mousse is packed with nourishing ingredients. It glides evenly onto the skin, and dries in seconds, giving an instant tan, leaving skin feeling silky smooth and hydrated with no streaking. The product is cruelty free and vegan.

WO £31 RTH .99

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Extra Dark Luxury Tanning Mouse from Iconic Bronze £13.99

BODY BLING

A golden glow is a good look at any time of the year and Iconic Bronze’s tanning mouse is perfect for when you need a hit of colour fast. The streak-free formula delivers an olive tan in an instant, while sunflower oil and Omegas 6 & 9 leave skin feeling deeply nourished.

ALL THAT GLITTERS

Housed in a magical cascading case, this palette features a mix of intensely-pigmented soft mattes and molten metallics. Each wearable shade works alone for day, or together for sparkling night looks. The innovative fallout-free glitter formula means achieving intensely dazzling glitter pay off is easier than ever – simply layer over the matte and metallic shades for eyes that catch the light. Glitter Storm Palette from Ciaté £36

BPerfect Ellie Kelly Born Ready Lip Kit £24.99

Wispies Wonderland from Ardell £69.99

Beauty Edit BY CLAIRE CRAIG

Get set to shine this festive season GET LASHED

Stay stocked up on falsies over the festive season with this bumper pack from Ardell. Featuring 12 pairs of lashes from the best selling Wispie range, choose from styles including the natural looking Baby Wispies or go for full drama with the Double Up Demi Wispies.

ON THE BLOW

Stay camera ready over the party period with this Blow-Dry Cream, part of the Style Stories range by ALFAPARF Milano. The lightweight, cream formula gives extra body, makes drying quicker and easier, and fights frizz. Style Stories Blow-Dry Cream from ALFAPARF Milano £12.95 Gold Mascara Top Coat from Clarins £22

GOLDEN GIRL

‘Tis the season to sparkle so why not add some glitz to your eyelashes with this Gold Mascara Top Coat? The double brush with its nylon bristles separates and defines each lash, delivering a sparkle to take you from subtle glimmer to all-out dazzle.

Extra Dimension Skinfinish in Snowflushed from M.A.C £25.50

WRAPPED UP

M.A.C’s Extra Dimension Skinfinish adds a subtle sheen to skin. The liquid powder, with prismatic reflections is designed to sculpt and highlight your face, leaving a luminous, well-defined finish. Oh Darling and Snowflushed are two new shades for Xmas and feature a pretty bow design that will look just as gorgeous on your dressing table as on your skin.

PRIMED TO PERFECTION

The cold weather and central heating can all take its toll on your skin – not to mention the dehydrating effects of an extra tipple or two in December…but worry not, this reviving face mist acts like an energy drink for your skin. The soothing, face-restoring water mist is infused with probiotic-based ingredients and potent skin reviving minerals to boost skin’s radiance, Spackle Mist promote elasticity and hydration Restore with while locking down makeup for Coconut Water fresher, longer and more flawless from Laura wear. Geller £25

GO BANANAS

Lock in your look with this complexionperfecting banana scented setting power. The yellow undertone helps brighten skin while blurring imperfections and Setting Powder harsh lines for a most from Too Faced £25 a-peeling finish.

BORN READY

Get sultry lips in an instant with bPerfect’s new Born Ready Lip Kits inspired by top Irish makeup artist and influencer Ellie Kelly. The perfect Christmas stocking filler, there are three kits with three lips products in each; a long lasting liner pencil, a satin finish lipstick, and a high-intensity pigment and gold infused lip gloss. Choose from boo (nude with pinky beige undertones), Secret (mocha brown), or Cheeky (red coral). BPerfect Ellie Kelly Born Ready Lip Kit £24.99

Nailed

IT Claire Craig’s foolproof guide to dazzling false nails

here’s no denying that perfectly polished fingernails finish off any outfit in style. For staying power, a professionally applied gel polish is hard to beat, but for those with work and uniform restrictions a manicure can only ever be a temporary measure so a short-lived, cost effective approach is needed. Step forward the humble fake nail. For a long time false nails had something of a bad name and were dismissed as awkward to fit and unreliable when on. Not so anymore. Today’s options come in a plethora of colours and styles to suit you and the only difficulty is in deciding. A little simple preparation on your own nails will help you get the most out of your stick-on artificial ones, giving you extra staying power and ensuring your natural nails are protected.

Sedona Press On Nails from H&M £5.99

Step 1

for your nail bed. Apply a few drops of glue to the back of the artificial nail, concentrating on the lower half. Many false nails are now selfadhesive in which case simply peel the backing off and press firmly on to your own nail.

Remove any traces of old nail polish and soak your nails in a bowl of warm water for 5-10 minutes to soften nail beds and the surrounding skin.

Step 2

Gently push back cuticles using an orange stick then cut your nails down so they are not visible on the underside of the false nail. Taking them as short as is comfortably possible will help the false nails last longer and is important if you are going for a stiletto or coffin shape, as otherwise, the edges of your own nails will be visible.

Step 3

Most nail sets include several sizes, so spend some time at the start selecting the best fit

Gel Fantasty Nails from Kiss £6.49

Fashion Nails from Primark £3

Step 4

Allow time for any glue to dry fully before picking up your phone or putting the kettle on and then you’re good to go. To avoid nails pinging off at inappropriate moments, do a quick check each morning to make sure each nail is still properly adhered.

Step 5

However tempting it may be, do not pull your false nails off without following the correct removal instructions. Doing so will damage your own digits and the repair can take ages.

Rose Gold False Nails from New Look £3.99

Silver Glitter Nails from Superdrug £4.99

Mineral makeup

Why we should make the switch to mineral BY CATRIONA DOHERTY

e’ve been hearing more and more about mineral makeup recently. In the last few weeks alone, we’ve read about mineral makeup products favoured by celebs Rosie Huntington-Whitley, Meghan Markle, Holly Willoughby and others. So what’s all the fuss about? Mineral makeup expert, Gillian Moore-Brady, founder of Fuschia Make-Up, tells us more. “Mineral makeup is makeup in its simplest, purest form,” explains Gillian. “There are no dyes, chemicals, preservatives, alcohol, toxins, parabens, talcs or chalks. The purity of the product means that it will actually heal the face while it’s being worn.” Gillian says everyone should consider making the transition to using all-mineral product, for these reasons: • There is virtually no risk of irritation. • It feels light and looks natural. • It contains anti-inflammatory properties. • It provides some UV protection; Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide provide a natural broad spectrum protection against UVA and UVB radiation. • Only a small amount of product is needed. It goes on quickly and blends easily to deliver sheer to full coverage. • Minerals last really well. They are water resistant and they don’t crease or smear easily. They last well in all weather conditions too. • Nasty bugs don’t grow in it (as minerals are inert they cannot support any life, including bacteria). Fuschia Make-Up has just launched in Northern Ireland and is available to buy in Gordons Chemists.

Lily Lolo

Mineral inspo Natural Mascara from Lily Lolo £12.50 Lily Lolo have an entire range of certified cruelty-free mineral makeup and skincare products, from nail polish to brush sets, and this lash-defining, lengthening mascara. Mineral Semi Matte Lipstick from Note £6.95 Key ingredients in this Note lippy are coral seaweed and Vitamin E. The lipstick has a semi-matte finish and is available in four shades.

Trystal Pressed Self Tanning Bronzing Minerals from Vita Liberata £25 This compact offers bronzing mineral coverage to subtly tan your skin. The pressed form means that it’s perfect for travel or on-the-move bronzing. It comes in two shades; sunkissed (light to medium) and bronze (medium to dark).

No7 Mineral Perfecting Powder Foundation from Boots £14 This hypo-allergenic foundation has a soft, natural finish, while still covering imperfections and blemishes. It’s ideal for problem, sensitive skin and lasts up to eight hours. Gen Nude Powder Blush from bareMinerals £22 This powder blush comes in 12 shades that mimic a natural flush. The collection features mauve, pink, peach and beige tones. Each colour comes in three levels on intensity, which makes it easy to find a shade to suit your skin tone. Paradise Seven Pan Palette from Fuschia Make-Up £27 This newly-released palette features vibrant colours that are sure to brighten up any gloomy, winter day. The shadows are highly pigmented, blend effortlessly, and the product stays in place all day long. Mineral Infused Face Primer Clear from e.l.f. £7.50 This clear primer will prepare your skin so makeup goes on evenly for a long-lasting satin finish. It’s developed to combat excess oil, dryness, enlarged pores and fine lines.

HEALTH & WELLNESS

tracks that when you listen to them it brings you right back to the happiness of the time you first heard them. This is nostalgic and powerful.

Seasonal self-care Local writer Bev Martin shares some words of wisdom

hristmas is a beautiful time of year to be with family and friends, to lift your glass and celebrate getting through another year and toast the one ahead. We bask in the excitement of children making their lists for Santa and counting down the sleeps until the big man comes with presents and magic. Isn’t he lucky he doesn’t have to deal with the bus lanes in the city centre, although that’s another story. As beautiful as Christmas is, it is can also be a difficult time of year. Financial pressure overload, traffic jams, and shoppers with trolley and road rage. Sadly we tend to feel more than ever the absence of loved ones we have lost. If you, like many of us, tend to get caught up in the more stressful side of Christmas - fear not. I bring you some ideas to get you through the madness. Remember the song words, ‘on the twelfth day of Christmas my true love gave to me’... well I urge you to be your own true love and try out some self-care. You never know it could lead to a

jollier season. So here’s my suggestions to bring yourself some love.

1. Write a love note to yourself. It may sound silly, but if you even write down one thing you love about yourself or something you have done that makes you feel genuinely happy, and look at it each morning your day will start on a positive note. 2. Take a long hot bath. Light a few candles. For me, a few drops of lavender and a citrus-based essential oil create the perfect aroma and atmosphere to relax. 3. Try yoga. I’m no expert but I’ve been doing a beginner’s course and the benefits are endless. 4. Catch up with that friend who every time you chat you promise each other to organise something. Just do it. 5. Watch your favourite movie. 6. Make a playlist of favourite songs and

7. Put your phone away at least an hour before you go to sleep. Give your eyes and mind a rest from texting and social media or whatever it is that tempts you to be on your phone late at night. 8. Get an early night. Sleep works wonders for the body and mind. We rarely let our phone batteries die; recharge your own battery. 9. Try meditation. YouTube is packed with online guided meditations. It doesn’t matter if you think you’re doing it wrong, the point is it will help quieten your mind and ground you. 10. Get fresh air. Take a walk outside and look at the moon and stars. 11. Smile – at strangers on the street or at colleagues at work. Pay somebody a compliment. It will make you feel good and you could be the reason somebody else smiles. They say the best things in life are free and nothing on this list is going to cause a financial burden. Apart from a few bath ingredients and maybe a pretty notepad or journal, the price tag is next to nothing. So enjoy every moment you can, decorate the tree and allow your inner child to feel giddy when you switch on those fairy lights. I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Giving goodness

with seasons greetings

The Forest Feast Christmas Collection, a range of bold and great-tasting dried fruit & nut snacks.

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018 16:07

REVIEW

The technology

Specsavers’ unique Frame Styler uses new facial recognition technology, designed exclusively by Specsavers, to give spec wearers confidence to find the right style for them. It is available in all Specsavers stores.

What is it?

Frame Styler offers virtual try-on technology to allow customers to see how

Specsavers’ Frame Styler

they look in a range of glasses, from every angle. The in-store frame advisor uses the Frame Styler to take a scan of the customer’s face to analyse their face shape, examine their purchase history, and combine the results with the latest trends. Up to 48 frames will be recommended, and the customer then flicks through images of themselves wearing different frames. Frame Styler is an easy to use, valuable tool to build customers’ confidence in trying new styles. It is useful to be able to view the frames in 3D rather than a flat Talutah by image in a Specsavers, £69 mirror, as this gives the wearer a genuine representation of how they look. The glasses are arranged into categories to inspire customers to experiment and broaden their perspective on what works with their personal style.

My experience

Frame Styler Scan

I was delighted to try the Frame Styler service at Victoria Square, Belfast. As a newcomer to wearing glasses, I knew deciding on my first pair of frames for everyday use would not be easy. Frame Styler confirmed my face shape was oval, and revealed ‘soft edge’ frames to be the most flattering style for me. The glasses that Frame Styler selected for me were arranged in distinct categories: Whisper – subtle metal looks, Talk – plastic

Kylie 03 by Kylie Minogue £99

TH78 by Tommy Hilfiger, £125 and metal bolder looks, Shout – stand out quirky styles, and Featured Frames – a mix of new ranges and the previous three. After trying on a number of pairs, I narrowed my selection down to a Talk by Kylie Minogue frame, a Shout by Specsavers frame, and a maverick style by Tommy Hilfiger frame selected by Jenna my advisor. She had listened to why I did not feel comfortable with some frames I had initially picked from the Frame Styler selection and was spot on with her recommendation.

The verdict

Frame Styler certainly took away that overwhelming feeling of having such an extensive range of frames to choose from. I had been given expert advice, but it was my choice when it came to making the final edit. The service is free and you can download the App if you would like the opinion of family and friends before you go for your eye test and purchase.

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Ciara Hedgcock DID go to Specsavers to try their exclusive Frame Styler

HANGXIETY Claire Craig explores why the psychological feelings of anxiety and paranoia can accompany a hangover just as frequently as the physical effects

anging headache, dry mouth, nausea; the physical effects of a hangover are only all too familiar for most of us. Bodily ailments aside though; an increasing number of people are admitting to feeling panicky, anxious, or paranoid the morning after the night before. The Urban Dictionary defines hangxiety as ‘the feeling of overwhelming guilt, stress, and worry you experience the day after a drinking binge’ and whether you suffer from a little beer fear or out-and-out shame the feelings can be crippling. So why does a good night out cause these blues? The experts at Drink Aware explain that when we drink alcohol it disrupts the balance of chemicals and processes

in the brain. The alcohol itself acts as a sedative and can help you feel more at ease and socially confident. These effects are temporary and as they wear off and the good feelings fade you can begin to experience withdrawal symptoms, similar to the feelings people who are dependent on alcohol may have. These symptoms can be psychological, such as feeling depressed or anxious, and people feel like this the morning after drinking alcohol because they are essentially withdrawing from the effects of alcohol. For some people, these feelings of anxiety or agitation may be barely noticeable. But if anxiety is already an issue for you, experiencing withdrawal from alcohol can make your symptoms feel worse. If you’re prone to social phobia, you

How to help prevent a hangover Top tips from the Natural Hydration Council for staying hangover free: • Never drink on an empty stomach. Eat a meal before you go out and snack later in the evening between drinks. • Stay well hydrated during the day before a big night out. Having a bottle of water at hand is a great way to re-hydrate on the move. • Don’t drink alcohol when you feel thirsty. Quench your thirst with a refreshing glass of water or a fruit juice before you have an alcoholic drink and if you’re hosting a party provide plenty of soft drinks including bottles of sparkling water and jugs of still water. • Avoid drinking from large wine glasses, as this may lead you to underestimate how much alcohol you have consumed. • Women generally tolerate alcohol less well than men, which is why the safe alcohol limit is lower for women (2-3 units/day) than for men (3-4 units/ day). Visit: www.nhs.uk/Tools/Pages/ Alcohol-unit-calculator.aspx for more information.

Combat Hangxiety Get some fresh air. While you may not feel like it some fresh air and gentle exercise will help to naturally lift your mood and get endorphins flowing. Talk to people. The automatic instinct when you’re feeling guilty or embarrassed is to hide away from people when in fact talking it through with friends might assure you you’ve actually nothing to be ashamed of and that most of the anxiety is in your head. Laughter is the best medicine. If you did make a fool of yourself the night before then try to see the funny side. Apologise if necessary, chances are you weren’t as bad as you thought, and then try to move on from the situation with humour and good grace. Know your limits. If you feel like your drinking may be controlling you rather than the other way round then maybe it’s time to consider cutting it down or out. More help and advice on quitting can be found at: www.drinkaware.co.uk.

might find yourself worrying about what you said or did the night before. If you suffer from generalised anxiety disorder you may wake in the middle of night, as the alcohol wears off, and lie awake worrying and feeling stressed. Social media can be another contributing factor. How often have you woken up and felt the need to immediately check your phone for damning evidence or posts from

the night before? As alcohol lowers your inhibitions sharing all on social media can seem like a great idea at the time; fast forward a few hours and in the cold, sober, light of day you might feel quite differently about that hilarious status update or photograph you put out there for all to see. A 2006 study carried out at Ulster University by Dr Adele McKinney and Dr Kieran Coyle from the School of Psychology, found that heavy alcohol consumption lowers mood, disrupts sleep, increases anxiety and produces physical symptoms, emotional symptoms and symptoms of fatigue throughout the next morning. Dr McKinney commented: “There are many factors that may contribute to the observed increase in anxiety levels during alcohol induced hangover. There could be a neurochemical rebound from the sedative effects of alcohol. The cognitive effects of hangover are evident in poor memory both during performance and for events that occurred the previous evening while intoxicated. “This poor memory and limited cognitive capacity may increase the fear and guilt relating to behaviour the previous night. This directly links to the reduced mood as evident in lower alertness and tranquility

during the hangover state. “The combination of all these factors combined with the increased stress levels during hangover leaves individuals in a state of anxiety which actually increases with awareness of what is expected of them during the hangover state, e.g if they know they have to attend an event, work, or some situation they perceive they will preform poorly at, even when their performance does not show hangover effects, increased anxiety is evident.” These feelings of guilt and anxiety can often make the physical symptoms of a hangover feel even worse. Easing these physical effects may help your overall mood. Professor Tom Sanders, Professor emeritus of Nutrition and Dietetics, King’s College London, advises the following: “Drinking plenty of water is the best remedy so go to bed with a bottle of water by your bedside. (If your head is spinning sit on the edge of the bed with your head between your legs). A glass of orange juice in the morning can pick up blood sugar levels, which are often low after excess alcohol, and a shower can also make you feel better. Avoid eating greasy food and continue to drink plenty of water but not more than 750ml per hour. “If people wake up with a headache that does not get better with just drinking water, paracetamol is the best choice of medicines that can be purchased over the counter. “Headaches are caused by be dehydration and also by acute increases of blood pressure following the withdrawal of alcohol. Red wine and brandy cause worse headaches than vodka because of the phenolic antioxidant compounds in them, which are thought to cause dilation of blood vessels in the brain.”

NW readers say... Katie, 37, Holywood

“I find the physical symptoms of a hangover far easier to deal with than the psychological effects. There have been times I’ve woken up feeling like I’ve really regretted my actions from the night before, even though, when I force myself to think logically, I know I haven’t done anything that bad. For me wine is one of the worst drinks for giving me anxiety, I think it’s because it goes straight to my head and I’m more likely to have gaps in my memory the next day - I then imagine I have said and done all sorts of terrible things!”

Lucy, 31, Bangor

“I rarely drink now because I hate how it makes me feel about myself the next day. I love being out with my friends and having a few drinks but it’s just not worth what I go through the morning after. I wake up feeling paranoid and guilty and need to go through my phone straight away to check I haven’t said or sent anything stupid. For me the only way of getting over it is to to keep myself busy, I take the dog for a walk or go to the gym and that helps me feel back in control.”

BY ALY HARTE

A life lesson from ‘Love Actually’ this Christmas 48

ou had a turbulent day in work, a fraught journey home, and now you’re sat on the sofa in your jeans and sweater after devouring some pasta with your hubby. You pop each wary foot into your slippers with the wool as light as marshmallows around your heels. The kettle is on and the cork has popped. You’re indecisive as to whether the crystal wine glass sits best in the cradle of your hand or the new pottery you were bought as a wedding gift. As you lift the toasty handle of the kettle from the stove the doorbell rings and you blindly pull on the brass knob. It’s your husband’s best friend, Mark. A familiar and gentle face who puts his index finger to his mouth and gestures you to “Sssshhh” before showing a card scribbled with sharpie pen. The card reads “Tell him it’s just carol singers”. Mark presses the clunky button on a portable Hi-Fi which plays the song ‘Silent night’ at a mellow volume. In his hand he holds cards expressing beautiful sweet messages. Caring, loving, confidenceboosting pretty words confessing his undying love for you. Followed by his own admission that this random and slightly strange act is all said and done “without hope or agenda”. Your eyes and heart swell a little when the words “to me, you are perfect” pop up on a sharpie scribbled card. A part of you feels flattered another part feels pity for Mark. For a golden moment you’re in this situation whole heartedly one hundred percent at that front door in your marshmallow-esque slippers. He is looking into your eyes and it’s all so sweet you’re delighted with yourself for being such a goddess; a desirable goddess. Then, just as you begin to set off and run after Mark down the cobbled streets of hipster London, thinking about his unrequited love and the sincerity of it all, you are sucked back into reality like the suction of a fish tank. Three kids are at your ankles and the man at the door is not a replica of Mark from the movie ‘Love Actually’. It is the postman with his tracking device under your nose requesting “Can you pop your signature on this, love?” He has an expectant look in his eyes asking you to hold a parcel for your neighbour who has the audacity not to be in. The whistling of the kettle and clink of a wine glass is, in real time, the ping of the microwave to tell you the kids’ baked beans are piping hot, and your husband of thirteen years is yelling from upstairs “Can someone grab me a towel from the hot press? Now!” The neighbour’s parcel is so large the postman has to wedge himself and it inside the hallway only for it to hit one of the small minions at your feet. Your ten toes which are not inside brand

Aly Harte is an artist, a writer and an educator. Her online print shop can help you this Christmas, in the spirit of Love Actually, to locate love in the form of art for as many people as you need. Find her on: alyharte.com

new 100% sheep wool slippers look up at you dressed in tattered socks. Odd socks at that. Ugly old socks that you can’t decide who they belong to; your freezing towelless husband at the top of the bannister or the ten-year-old who thinks his Xbox has arrived a day early. Well, it was nice while it lasted, wasn’t it? Dreamy, pleasant and all gooey inside, like warm chocolate sauce. For a second you believed that you were “the one that got away”. It was a little bit special. All is not lost. As a student my friend Holly and I watched Love Actually (the DVD version – no Netflix or Amazon Prime) on repeat in the run up to Christmas. It still features along with ‘The holiday’ once late November hits. They’re classics that my husband and kids don’t share the same joy for, but they are indented on my brain and bring me such happiness. We may not have snow on tap in Northern Ireland (more like sludge after two hours of resting on our pavements or country roads), but we do have romance. Your evenings may not begin with crystal wine glasses and Chardonnay or taking your time to eat a bowl of pasta over a box set. But you, my friend, can still be reminded of your worth at any time of the year. They say a puppy is not just for Christmas and neither is a kind word or

two to boost your mood and to help you dig deep into the little things that make you special and unique. Take heed when I say “to me, you are perfect”. Words can be frivolous and words can be dangerous. Christmas is a time when we throw about sayings, carols, texts and tuneless karaoke sing songs. We squeeze into dresses and we get upset at ourselves when we drink another glass of wine at the party. Our emotions can heighten at this time of year.

µµTo me, you are perfect∑∑ Why not take a moment to pause and think as you wrap a gift for someone you love. Perhaps they are new in your life which automatically changes how you feel this festive season compared to the last. The desired feel-good fluffiness of Christmas and the love we can actually (see what I did there?) feel is as important all year round as it is at Christmas. None of us are getting any younger and your odd socks are ugly, yes, but they remind you of a house packed with business and a jumbled up sock drawer. What a blessing to have created that bustling

household from your belly or after a tenyear wait on the adoption process. If you are reading this and you are currently without a partner please know that one doorbell ring, or one change in the blue app that links you to your potential suitor, is all it takes to change your life. Furthermore, and more importantly, you are worthy and you are perfect just as you are. A partner screaming for a towel at the top of your stairs does not define you. Have a super Christmas whatever you do, eat or dance to. Enjoy the wine and the cups of tea in whichever mug you think is fitting. Then when you’re caught up in the drama or the rush of gift buying and booking of flights to see family and friends, I want you to remember this scene from Love Actually. Let’s agree that the awkwardness of Mark’s unrequited love is the bit we can cast aside from the scene. It’s the significance of the words on his cards that I am most interested in: “For now let me say without hope or agenda, to me, you are perfect”. Happy Christmas beautiful being.

WHY NOT YOU? Co Down-local Gurpreet Kaur writes about the “small, but mighty steps” that took her on a path of selfdiscovery with lifealtering results

here is a common misconception that once you reach a certain age or point in your life, you are who you are and that’s it, you’re stuck there. Or there is a school of thought that when someone has managed to make huge changes they have only done so because of their good luck or superior intelligence, and so it couldn’t possibly happen for you. Just over three years ago I was someone who believed the very same: ‘it could happen for anyone else but me’. Only it did happen for me. I have completely changed my health, my career, my entire outlook on life and I did it all after the age of 30. The change is so marvellous that I now show others how to achieve the very best for themselves too.

Let’s do a quick rewind to 2015. I was 34, I had suffered several miscarriages which led to a hysterectomy. I was at a dark, depressed place in my life thinking I had no real future to speak of. It was when I voiced this to my brother, he suggested that I look at my life through the eyes of gratitude instead. Gratitude? Could I really be grateful for the things that seemed like my biggest obstacles? It turns out I could.

I looked to find gratitude for as many things as I could in my day, and this proved to be such an empowering and cathartic tool that I applied it to as many things as I could. Being able to change how I thought and felt about any situation simply by changing my perspective was a revelation. Furthermore it’s a mental faculty that we all have access to. I developed an attitude of gratitude and

actively sought out things that I could be grateful for and quickly realised how much I had been overlooking. I even changed how I saw things - such as having a bathroom to clean meant that I have a home, a roof over my head and how fortunate that I had the bath and running hot water. It was incredible how differently I felt when I chose to focus on something other than the sorrow I had identified with for so long. I felt stronger, happier and calmer. The things that once seemed so heavy, began to feel light. I began to see that, far from being alone, I had the most incredible people in my life who encouraged me from the get go.

the field of personal development, Kim Calvert from Thinking into Results. I now run a successful Mindset Transformation company helping others see just how much they are capable of in every and any area of their life, no matter what their age, gender or background. One of the biggest things I have learned is that no matter where you are in your life right now, if you don’t like it, you can change it. You absolutely can. You simply have to make a decision to do it and then do it. If you don’t know where to start, ask someone who is displaying the results you desire. Reach out to people who can help. Switch your focus to spending time thinking about what would make you happy, make that a goal and write it out daily. Start and end your day with gratitude for at least five things. This isn’t just a nice thing to do, there is an actual science that explains why this works. Change, add or remove one thing or habit each month that will help you to reach your goal sooner. Remember the idea is not perfection, its progress, so don’t beat yourself up about things, just keep going and moving forward. Success comes from not giving up. Alter your perspective when things look a little off, or where a situation is playing on your mind, ask what you could learn from it. Some of the things I thought were the

µµOur sensory diet is just as important as the food we eat∑∑ toughest to deal with in life have been the most character-building experiences. Start being selective of how you spend your time; read more, laugh more, walk more and spend time with like-minded people. Turn off the news and introduce a routine for daily meditation – what we take in through our senses plays a huge part in how we feel and view the world around us. Our sensory diet is just as important as the food we eat. These small, but mighty steps took me on a path of self-discovery, optimum mental health and massive improvements in my personal and professional results, and thus I can say I am grateful for each of the things that I once thought were my biggest afflictions. As it happens those very things are what have propelled me further and higher than ever before. So, if I can, why not you?

For information on Gurpreet’s events and services, visit: www.intuitive-knowledge.com.

µµI replaced the pills with reading about the mind, science and spirituality∑∑ After consulting with my doctor I chose to give up anti-depressants after 15 years in October 2015, and I began to take control of my mental health. This was not an easy time, but it was certainly worth it. I replaced the pills with reading about the mind, science and spirituality. I swapped the television schedule for meditation time, I cooked more wholesome food and introduced exercising again. I had become as committed to feeling better as I had previously been to feeling sad. I saw the withdrawal from the medication as training myself to feel better, to feel differently and like with anything, the more we practice something, the more we acquire the skill. Before long it had become a new way of being and others were seeing huge differences in me and wanted to know more. Let’s fast-forward three years and I continue to be obsessed with learning about the mind and how to use it to maximize human potential. I have qualified as an NLP Practitioner and most recently I completed a mentorship under one of the leaders in

Thinking into Results members Mairead Dunne and Gurpreet Kaur with director Kim Calvert

Entertain simply this season with our delicious range of sauces and accompaniments. WWW.BALLYMALOE.IE

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Win A Hamper With Ballymaloe NW and Ballymaloe have teamed up to offer one lucky reader a Christmas hamper to satisfy your Christmas condiment needs

ave a delicious Christmas with Ballymaloe! Ballymaloe foods has been through an exciting journey since beginning in 1990. We are an Irish, family-run business. We cook using traditional methods and the best quality ingredients, resulting in delicious tasting products. One of these delicious tasting products is our Ballymaloe Cranberry Sauce, made with whole cranberries, sugar, water and nothing else, it is bursting with fruity flavour. It is perfectly paired with traditional roast meats such as turkey, chicken and ham. For a heavenly twist on a classic sandwich, mix it through some mayo for a mouth-watering pink mayo! For delicious Christmas recipes visit: www.ballymaloefoods.ie. n

TO ENTER Simply answer the following question: When did the Ballymaloe Journey begin? Email your answer and contact details to competitions@northernwoman.co.uk before 5pm on Friday 21 December. T&Cs: The prize is subject to availability and is non-transferrable. INM T&Cs apply.

FESTIVE

FOOD 53

DELUXE FOR LESS

Whether it’s a pre-Christmas soiree for family and friends in the comfort of your own home, or a quick-fix cosy night in, Lidl’s Deluxe range this festive season is a platter for the occasion. From festive-flavoured crisps to cold cuts and cheeses Lidl’s Deluxe range allows hosts to elevate their buffet offering while keeping time on their side.

WHILKES STOC T! LAS

SNACKS WITH STYLE

MAIN SELECTION Lidl’s Deluxe Vegetable Parcels (£1.99) take oven treats to classy heights. With three varieties to chose from; Chesnut, Mushroom, Brie and Cranberry, Long Clawson, Stilton and Mushroom and Spinach, Vintage Cheddar and Garlic, these savoury treats will wow even the most discerning of guests.

When the usual classics aren’t cutting it, Lidl’s Deluxe snack selection will take your offering to the next level. Smoked and Caramelised Assorted Nuts (£2.99) alongside Deluxe Winter Vegetable Crisps in assorted flavours (99p), take nibbles up a notch.

PERFECT BE-GIN-INGS

Kick off your event in style with some infused gin drinks made that little bit easier thanks to the Deluxe Gin Tonic Spices. These little packets of flavour-awe-some (£1.79) will refine any gin and tonic serve.

FESTIVE FROMAGE

From Soft Blue Rocuqefort to Wensleydale with Cranberry ‘cheese truckles’ and the classic White Stilton (from £1.79), there’s a cheese that will ensure your event is a cracker. Talking of which, Lidl’s Deluxe Flavoured Cracker Assortment (£1.99) are a feast for the eyes and the senses. Think oat and chive, beetroot and three seed, or charcoal and sesame.

Serve with Deluxe Beer Battered Onion Rings (£1.99) and Lidl’s Prawn Ring with Sweet Chilli Sauce (£3.99).

And when cheese and crackers demand a touch of finesse Lidl’s Deluxe Savoury Conserves for Cheese will provide some taste explosions. Available in three varieities (from 99p) come in Gooseberry and Champagne, Redcurrant Jelly, and Balsamic Preserve flavour.

SWEET TREAT

To end a perfect event, the Deluxe Individual Dessert Selection (£2.99) is a chocolatey individually packed foursome of sweetness.

LIDL’S CHRISTMAS COCKTAILS

Dry Gin

❄ French 75 a l’orange

£16

INGREDIENTS (Makes 1) • 60ml dry gin • 20ml freshly squeezed orange juice • 20ml simple syrup • 60ml Champagne • Twist of orange zest, to garnish

METHOD

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine the gin, lemon juice and simple syrup. 2. Fill the shaker with ice, close tightly and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds until the outside is very cold. 3. Strain the cocktail into a large flute. Top up with Champagne and garnish with a twist of orange zest.

Botanical Gin

❄Very berry gin INGREDIENTS (Makes 1) • 1 tbsp blackcurrant jam • 1 tsp sugar • 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice • 60ml gin • Tonic water

METHOD

£15.9

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine the jam, sugar, lemon juice and gin. 2. Fill the shaker with ice, close tightly and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds until the outside is very cold. 3. Strain the cocktail into a large tumbler. Top up with tonic water and garnish with 1-2 blackberries.

Dry Vodka

Whiskey

❄Hot whiskey

£15.9

❄Salted caramel white Russian

INGREDIENTS

(Makes 1)

• 50ml Irish whiskey • 1 tsp brown sugar (or 1 tsp honey) • 1 thick slice of lemon • 4 cloves

• 40ml vodka • 30ml chocolate cream liqueur • 60ml double cream • 2 tbsp caramel sauce • Coarse sea salt, to garnish

METHOD

1. Fill a glass or mug with near-boiling water to warm it, emptying it after a minute. Pour the whiskey into the glass and add the sugar (or honey if you’re fighting a cold). 2. Cut the lemon slice in half and remove any pips. Squeeze the juice from one half of the slice into the glass. 3. Stud the white pith of the remaining half-slice of lemon with cloves, pushing them in fully so they won’t float out. 4. Fill the glass almost to the brim with boiling water. Stir to dissolve the sugar. Gently drop the clove-studded lemon in, taking care not to splash any of the hot whiskey.

METHOD

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine the vodka, coffee liqueur, cream and half of the caramel sauce. 2. Fill the shaker with ice, close tightly and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds until the outside is very cold. 3. Swirl the remaining caramel around the inside and rim of a chilled glass. Pour in the cocktail and garnish with sea salt.

❄Frozen Winter Berry Sundae INGREDIENTS (Serves 4) • ½ pkt Green Grocer’s Frozen Fruits • 2 tbsps Belbake Icing Sugar • 2 tbsps fresh lemon juice • 100g Fin Carré White Chocolate, chopped • 300ml Coolree Creamery Fresh Cream • 2 Deluxe Meringue Nests • Fresh mint leaves • A handful of pomegranate seeds

METHOD

.4 £15

1. Heat half the frozen fruit with the icing sugar and lemon juice over a medium heat for 5 minutes, stirring to break up the fruit slightly. 2. Break up the white chocolate and heat in a small saucepan over a low heat. 3. Add 3 tbsps of the cream and continue to cook until the chocolate has melted and the sauce is smooth and glossy. 4. Whip the remaining cream until peaks form but it’s not over-whipped. 5. Break the meringue nests into pieces and set aside. 6. Fill sundae glasses with layers of the frozen fruit, whipped cream, broken meringues and fruit sauce, finishing with the white chocolate sauce on top.

An alternative Christmas dinner. Photo by Connor Tilson

Christmas dining with a difference This month Sal Hanvey cooks up an alternative festive feast that’s sumptuous and healthy too

hristmas can mean so many things for people. For me, it means some time to relax, reflect, spend time with loved ones, and of course indulge in delicious food. Getting festive starts at different times for people; I tend to want to get the festivities underway as soon as December begins, however I resist the urge to put up the decorations until the second week of December. That way, the real tree is still in all its glory come New Year. Making Christmas food is one of my favourite things. The smell of cinnamon, cloves and allspice working its way from room to room is such a joy. It’s the little things for me which are important. Childhood memories of food cooking on the stove, sticks out so much in my mind and I feel it in my soul. It resonates of simpler times. I am fortunate enough to live in a house

where I have an AGA range cooker. It keeps the kitchen warm and cosy all year round, and it produces top quality food that tastes simply amazing. For any of you who have an AGA range you will agree I’m sure. I

have included AGA methods of cooking my recipes, just in case you have one. For anyone who is interested in learning more about AGA cooking, Haldane Fisher stores are a good place to start. They have depots all over Northern Ireland and run regular cooking demos. AGAs keep all foods completely warm, without drying them out, so that everything can be served together in harmony for a perfect meal - genius! I have included some dairy-free, wheat-free, gluten-free and yeast-free alternatives in many of the recipes in this issue, especially for NW readers who have special dietary requirements, intolerances or allergies. I hope you enjoy my alternative Christmas dinner recipes. I would really like to know what you think so drop me a line. I hope all the readers of Northern Woman have a great Christmas and a prosperous New Year, and that you all get time to enjoy some well-deserved relaxation and recuperation, and enjoy my heartfelt recipes. P.S. Don’t forget to feed Rudolph!

Sal Hanvey specialises in reflexology and acupuncture for fertility and maternity. She is also a nutrition advisor. To contact Sal call: 078 0147 6048, email: sal@naturalhealthni.co.uk, or visit: www.naturalhealthni.co.uk

Sal Hanvey. Photo by Connor Tilson

Roasties (serves 4)

Ingredients

3 medium sized Maris Piper potatoes A few sprigs of fresh rosemary Sea salt Black pepper Rapeseed oil

Method (conventional oven)

• Peel and chop potatoes into mediumsized pieces. • Bring the potatoes to a boil in a pot, reduce to a simmer, and cover for approx. 10 mins. • Drain well, and then toss in a colander to roughen the edges of the potatoes. • Transfer the potatoes to a roasting tin and toss in some rapeseed oil and season well. • Add sprigs of fresh rosemary. • Roast until crisp - approx. 20 mins.

Method (AGA oven)

• Follow the same method above to prepare the potatoes for roasing, and then place them on the floor of the roasting oven for approx. 20 mins.

Roasties. Photo by Connor Tilson

Chestnut Honey Glazed Parsnips

• Put the coated parsnips in a roasting tin with 2 tbsp. butter and 2 tbsp. rapeseed oil. • Roast for about 40 mins. until golden brown and shake halfway through.

(serves 4)

Method (AGA oven)

Ingredients

2-3 parsnips 1-2 tbsp of good quality chestnut honey (I use an Italian one I bought online) 1 tbsp. gluten-free flour Sea salt and black pepper 2 tbsp. rapeseed oil 2 tbsp. butter or a dairy-free alternative

Method (conventional oven)

• Peel and chop the parsnips into long thick slices. • Coat the parsnips in gluten-free flour, and then coat in chestnut honey. Chestnut honey glazed parsnips. Photo by Connor Tilson

• Follow the above method in the top oven for aprox. 30 mins., then put the parsnips in the bottom oven to keep warm until serving all the food together.

Buttery Mash (serves 4)

Ingredients

3 medium-sized potatoes Butter or dairy-free margarine Sea salt Black pepper Milk or a dairy-free milk alternative such as almond milk

Method (conventional oven)

• Peel and chop the potatoes and put them in a medium-sized pot of boiled, salted water. • Once boiled, simmer and cover for about 15 mins. or until the potatoes are tender but still firm. • Drain, return to the pot and add as much butter and milk as you wish to make the mash as buttery and creamy as you desire. • Season with salt and pepper, add a further dollop of butter and serve.

Continued on 60 ➤

Brussel Sprouts (serves 4)

Ingredients

24 Brussel sprouts Sea salt Black pepper Coconut oil

Method (conventional oven)

• Toss the Brussel sprouts in a bowl with enough oil to coat them. • Add salt and pepper. • Place the sprouts in a roasting tin. Put them in the oven at 400°F and cook for approx. 35-40 mins. • Halfway through give them a shake. Cook until nicely browned.

Method (AGA oven)

• Follow the same preparation method, then put the sprouts in the top oven for approx. 30 mins. Transfer to the bottom oven to keep warm before serving.

Mushroom and shallot gravy. Photo by Connor Tilson

Mushroom and Shallot Gravy (serves 4)

Ingredients

1 knob butter 2 tbsp. olive oil 1 shallot, finely chopped 1 garlic clove, crushed and chopped 200g mushrooms, preferably wild ones 250ml vegetable stock 2 tbsp. soy sauce (I use the Tamari gluten-free sauce) 1 tbsp. plain flour (I use gluten-free, white, allpurpose flour mix)

Cranberry Bon Bons (serves 4)

Ingredients

3/4 cup of water 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice 2 tsp. orange zest 1/3 cup Xylitol (healthy sugar alternative) 2-3 sprigs fresh thyme 4 cups frozen or fresh cranberries

Method

• Add the water, orange juice and zest, xylitol, and thyme to a pan and bring to a low boil over a medium-high heat. • Add cranberries and stir. • Simmer, stirring occasionally until the cranberries start to burst. • Reduce heat and stir occasionally until the sauce reaches the desired consistency. • Remove the thyme sprigs and discard. • Remove the pot from heat and let it stand – the sauce will thicken as it cools. • Roll the mixture into bon bon balls and garnish with thyme sprigs.

Cranberry bon bons. Photo by Connor Tilson

1 tbsp. butter Sea salt Black pepper

Method

• Heat the oil and knob of butter in a mediumsized pan. • Add the chopped shallot and cook until transparent - approx. 4-5 mins. • Add the garlic and sweat for 8 mins. • Add the mushrooms, cook and stir for a further 3-5 mins. • Add the stock and soy sauce. • Season to taste. • Simmer with the lid on for 8-10 mins. • Mix the tbsp. of flour into the tbsp. of butter and stir into the gravy to thicken. • Serve piping hot with the nut roast.

Nut Roast. Photo by Connor Tilson

Nut Roast (serves 4)

Ingredients

1 free-range organic egg, beaten 110g Gruyère cheese, finely grated 1/2 tsp. dried sage 1/2 tsp. finely chopped fresh mint 1 1/2 tbsp. curly parsley 1 garlic clove, crushed 1 tsp. vegetable stock concentrate (I use reduced salt Bouillon) Sea salt Black pepper 1 knob of butter or oil 190g fresh spinach leaves 250g unsalted mixed nuts (I use hazelnuts, Brazil and almond nuts) 30g unsalted cashew nuts 1/2 green onion, finely chopped 1 carrot, grated 200g good quality tinned tomatoes, drained and chopped 50g sun-dried tomatoes in olive oil, roughly chopped

Method (conventional oven)

• Preheat the oven to 180°C. • Blanch the spinach by putting it into boiling water for only a few minutes, then drain it well and squeeze out all the water. • Chop the spinach finely and set aside. • Put the mixed nuts and cashews in a food processor. Pulse until chopped - don’t reduce the nuts to a powder. • Put the nuts into a bowl and add the onion, carrot, tinned and sun-dried tomatoes, cheese, sage, mint, parsley, spinach, garlic, egg, stock and seasoning, and mix everything together really well. • Grease a loaf tin with butter or oil and pour the

mixture into the tin. • Put a piece of greaseproof paper over the loaf tin, grease it to prevent it burning. • Bake for about an hour or so until the nut roast is cooked through. Tip out carefully and serve.

Method (AGA oven)

• Follow the same preparation method but put the nut roast in the middle shelf or top roasting oven for 50 mins. and then check if cooked. • Transfer it to the floor of the low bottom oven to keep it warm until you are ready to serve. Continued on 62 ➤

Mulled wine, Santa’s Cherry Chocolate Biscuits, and Rudolph’s Carrot Sticks. Photo by Connor Tilson

Mulled Wine (serves 4)

Ingredients

2 bottles of good quality red wine (I use French red) 1 cinnamon stick 2 star anise 1 orange 1 lime 1 lemon 1 vanilla pod 1 whole nutmeg 2 bay leaves 5 cloves 175g caster sugar

Method

Santa’s Cherry Chocolate Biscuits

• Chop up the fruit, slice the vanilla pod, grate the nutmeg and put them into a pot along with all of the other ingredients, place over a medium heat for about 10 mins. Five minutes in, add the star anise to the pot. • Sieve the mixture to extract the infused wine. Discard the other ingredients and use a ladle to serve the mulled wine. Santa’s Cherry Chocolate Biscuits. Photo by Connor Tilson

(serves 4)

Ingredients

200g good quality dark chocolate (60% cocoa solids minimum) 100g good quality milk chocolate or a dairyfree alternative 3 tbsp. agave syrup (or maple syrup) 280g unsalted butter or a dairy-free alternative 280g digestive biscuits (I use gluten-free) 70g glacé cherries, quartered 45g sultanas 90g flaked almonds, toasted 1 tsp of allspice

Method

• Break all of the chocolate into small squares and add it to a large bowl with the agave syrup and butter. • Stand the bowl over a pan of simmering water, making sure the base of the bowl doesn’t touch the water. • Leave it there until the chocolate has melted. • Remove the bowl from the pan. • Put the biscuits in a large, clean freezer bag, and bash it with a rolling pin until the biscuits are broken into small pieces. • Add the biscuits to the chocolate mixture with the cherries, sultanas, toasted almonds and allspice. • Stir until well mixed. • Line a shallow cake tin or roasting tin (about 16cm by 32cm) with cling film. • Put the mixture into the tin and level the top. • Chill for at least 2 hours. • Cut into squares, then store in the fridge or freezer until ready to serve.

Rudolph’s Carrot Sticks (serves 1 reindeer)

Ingredients 2 carrot sticks

Method

Peel and chop the carrots into fine sticks. Serve along with Santa’s cherry chocolate biscuits and mulled wine.

Shop LOCAL Home-grown produts to try this month haddock, salmon, hake, smoked haddock, seabass, and chowder/pie mix. Order via: www.mournefishbox.com THE TASTE TEST: We sampled the mackerel and monkfish and both were flawless, we’re looking forward to testing out the chowder mix next.

Just Live a Little Coconut Chia Granola, £3.69

Irish Black Butter, £4

Irish Black Butter is a wheat- and dairyfree, vegan and vegetarian product. It can be used as a chutney paired with cheeses and cold meats, as a marinade or glaze for meats, and in recipes for mince pies, Christmas pudding and more. Launched last year by Portrush entrepreneur, Alastair Bell, Irish Black Butter has won many awards since. THE TASTE TEST: We tried it as a chicken glaze, and on cheese and crackers – both combos got the thumbs up. Irish Black Butter is available to buy from leading delis, independent retailers, farm shops, and online at: www.irishblackbutter.com

Mourne Fishbox Singles Fishbox, £29.50

Based in Kilkeel Harbour, Mourne Fishbox deliver a variety of fresh fish and shellfish boxes to your door. The Singles Box contains a selection of their most popular seafood; ideal if you live alone, are the only one in the family who likes fish, or if you simply want to try a selection. The box comprises one portion of; coley, cod,

Just Live a Little is run by husband and wife team, Jill and David Crawford, who live in a farmhouse beside Strangford Lough. In 2011, they both “still had real jobs”. David was working for a yogurt company making natural and Greek-style yogurt and selling it at a farmer’s market. It was a little bit tart to eat on its own, so the pair started baking granola in their home kitchen to sell at the market. It is now stocked by many leading retailers in Northern Ireland and further afield. For stockists visit: www.justlivealittle.co

White’s Organic Jumbo Oats, £2.10

The White’s mill was founded by the family back in 1841 in Tandragee, Armagh. Today

White’s offer a range of traditional porridge oats, instant flavoured porridge, and ready to eat organic oat cereals. THE TASTE TEST: This morning we enjoyed a hearty bowl of steaming porridge with a spoonful of honey. The White’s website feature a variety of recipes that we have earmarked to try, such as ‘Oaty wheaten cob with treacle’ and ‘Nutty date energy oat balls’.

Whyn Croft Beetroot Chutney, £2.75 Whyn Croft Country Produce is run from a family farm, nestled in the heart of the Mournes. Their acclaimed homemade beetroot chutney is available to buy from their farm shop in Ballymartin, Sea Source in Kilkeel, and to order via Facebook: www.facebook.com/ whyncroftcountryproduce.

The Naturo Christmas dinner, £1.20 per tray or in £8 packs

To help make pets part of your Christmas celebrations, the team at Mackle Petfoods, Armagh, have developed the perfect festive food for pooches; the Naturo ‘Turkey and Cranberry’ Christmas dinner. The product is made from 100% fully traceable natural ingredients including; turkey, cranberries, carrots and potatoes. The doggie dinner is sold in Tesco and online at: www.naturopetfoods.com

Cushions £18–£45, faux mohair throw £25, Lisa pendant £75, Collection ‘Nordic Nights’ bedding set (double) £35, Bibi side table £85, Nordic ceramic pot £15, glitter stars (set of eight) £5, vase £14, Jute baskets (set of two) £26 - all from Debenhams

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DOUBLE UP Shop this month’s designer buys and purse-friendly lookalikes BY RÓISÍN CARABINE

SAVE

Bendt Wire Waste Bin in copper from Made.com £16

Aydin Double Bed Frame in grey (7970126) from Argos £189

SPLURGE

Menu Norm Wire Bin in copper from Black-by-design.co.uk £89.95

Capri Double Bed in Etna grey from Made.com £649

Sunnylife Neon Rainbow Light from Amara.com £57

Rainbow Neon-Effect LED Light from George Home @ Asda £10

Farringdon Bar Stool from Dunelm £79

Helena Glass Coffee Table (8521268) from Argos Home £89.99

Welles Bar Stool, Conker, from Swooneditions.com £129 Olivia Coffee Table from Harvey Norman £199

Woud Come Here Side Table from Nest.co.uk £329

Hay – DLM Side Table from Amara.com £135 Maestro Chevron black & white rug from Carpetright.co.uk £29.99

Handwoven Zig-Zag Chevron Rug, made from sustainably sourced 100% cotton from Venoor.com £359

Cosy comforts 01

A throw is the ultimate go-to winter accessory. No bed or sofa should be without one.

Mixed Metals

Gold, silver, petrol and brass – shiny happy buys for interiors magpies.

01 Foremål Candlesticks (set of 2) available to order online from Ikea £22 02 Petrol Metallic Balloon Dog from Very.co.uk £19.99 03 Retro 746 Telephone in Brass from Cuckooland.com £44.95 04 House Lantern (large) from Primark £13 05 Penguin Cocktail Shaker from Habitat.co.uk £35

06 Boden throw, McKellar throw and Mathea throw from Harvey Norman, from £40

The £50 edit Treat your house-proud friends to gorgeous gifts for their gaff this Christmas. We’ve got 50 to inspire – all £50 or less RÓISÍN CARABINE

Hallway Hit List Lobby lovelies guaranteed to make the right first impression

08 09

07 Artsy Doormat from Amara.com £25 08 Hello Coat Rack from Redcandy.co.uk £38 09 Proud Silver Stag Door Stop from Artisanti.com £12

Animal Attraction Fun, figurative accessories guaranteed to add a touch of humour.

24 16

11 15 13

12 14

Dining Delights Pretty table top accessories to dine for. 23 Kikkerland Tea Infuser from Habitat.co.uk £8 24 Safari Life Rhino 3D Animal Head from Cultfurniture.com £49 25 Geometric Elephant Ornament from George Home @ Asda £12

10 Hexagon Taper Candle Sticks, all £8; large £10 11 Set of Three Tea Light Holders £10 12 12-Piece Carrington (black & gold) Dinner Set £50 13 12-Piece Hutton (green) Dinner Set £28 14 16-Piece Gold Effect Cutlery Set £38 15 Mini Lustre Lantern £3 16 Set of 2 Fizz Champagne-Shaped Glass Candles £10 17 Pressed Ombre Vase, £20, all from Next

Bright Sparks Shine a light with these standout statement luminaires. 18 Tulip Smoked Table Lamp from Matalan £50 19 Kit Table Lamp from Debenhams £40 20 Feather Table Lamp from Very.co.uk £39.99 21 Vico Table Lamp in pink from Oliver Bonas, Belfast, £36 22 Droog Sticky Lamp by Chris Kabel from Designmyworld.net £24.95

Bedded Bliss Crisp linens, quilted throws and sateen sheets equals a seriously stylish slumber. 26 Woodland Animal Printed Bedding Set (double) £21 27 Wildflower Sateen Printed Bedding Set (double) £31 28 Rural Retreat Mustard Quilted Throw, £35, all from Sainsbury’s Home

27 35

Bathroom Beauties

Stylish solutions for the smallest room in the house.

Plump Up The Volume Tassels, florals, embroidery and abstract prints – oh my! 29 Leinky Cushion Cover, 50x50cm, from Ikea, Belfast, £4.50 30 Dance Party Cushion from Johnlewis.com £25 31 Petra Purple Pansy Print Tassel Cushion from Raggedrose.com £35 32 Iris Leaf Print Cushion from White Stuff, Belfast, £35 33 Olive Green Floral Print Cushion from Oliver Bonas, Belfast, £28 34 Belvedere Embroidered Midnight Cushion from Laura Ashley £50

35 Pip Studio Good Morning Floral Pink Bathroom Accessories from Hurnandhurn.com £36 36 Pom Pom Belly Basket from Rexlondon.com £25 37 Matthew Williamson Gold Wire Woven Mirror from Debenhams £50

Jungalow Style Trending leafy indoor plants and Insta-worthy pots for indoor gardens

39 38 40 41

43 38 Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree (medium) from Marks & Spencer £39.50 39 String Of Pearls from Debenhams £28 40 Succulents in Cement Pot from B&Q £12 41 Euphorbia Acrurensis (Cactus King), 24cm, from Ikea Belfast £49 42 Circular Brass Hanging Planter from Audenza.com £32 43 Grey Diamond Frame Plant Pot from The Contemporary Home, Tch.net, £15

Rough Luxe

45 47

Think reclaimed, handmade, and sustainable. #gaff goals for 2019.

44 Handcrafted reclaimed wood serving boards from Vincenttrading.co.uk, small £15; large £25

Office Essentials Desktop deco ideas for hardworking home hubs. 48

50 45 Skadis Pegboard, 76x56cm, available in various sizes and combinations from Ikea, Belfast, £30.50 46 Block Sketch Desk Tidy from Redcandy.co.uk £24 47 Karlsson Origami Ceramic Wall Clock from Hurnandhurn.com £38 48 Giant Gold Safety Pin (52cm) for storing tape, craft/sewing supplies from Papermash.co.uk £19.95 49 Arc Bookends (available in yellow & white) designed in collaboration with Lara Chapman from AnthologyFive.com £38 a pair 50 Mini Jack Paper Weight/Doorstop by Tom Dixon from Nest.co.uk £50

ESCAPE

Salzkammergut, Austria

On the Piste: Ski tips and the best deals for the 2018/19 season

BY PÓL Ó CONGHAILE

eading on the piste this year? You’re not alone. Ski bookings continue to boom, with tour operators telling me more beginners and families are taking to the slopes, and Irish visitors to the Austrian Tirol were up 19 percent last year alone. “A number of key resorts, including Livigno, are already sold out for New Year,” says Maurice Shiels, Sales Director at Topflight. Don’t panic. There’s still loads of time to get your ski holiday sorted. Here are a few trends to mull over while you decide.

Consider a chalet

Catered chalets have well and truly caught on. They’re not cheap, but many skiers love this “home from home” concept, with hot tubs and catering high on the list of creature comforts. Topflight now offers over 50 chalets, Crystal Ski continues to grow its offering, and Highlife has lovely luxury options,

plus three-night trips if you’re looking for a quick shot of snow. Expect to pay from €800pp and upwards for a week.

Ski off-peak

Save by avoiding school holidays (mid-term is February 18-22). Another tip is to check ‘Super Ski Weeks’ in places like Austria’s Westerndorf and the SkiWelt, where you can get up to 25 percent off ski passes and hotel rooms. Don’t forget to ask for discounts if you’re travelling as a group. March is an option for lower prices (though it’s best to go for higher altitude resorts). Departing March 23, for example, GoHop.ie has three-star self-catering in La Tania, France from €496pp.

Special offers

Going to press, DirectSki.com had January deals to Andorra from €399pp, while Cassidy Travel has two lift passes for the price of one, and a four-star, half-board package to Sestriere in Italy from €795pp

over Christmas. Crystal Ski has a week at Austria’s Zell am See from €605pp on Janaury 12 – a good resort for beginners – and a four-star family package in Italy from €2,409, leaving January 19. Check ski tour operators’ websites for the latest special offers (signing up to their newsletters or Facebook pages can give you first dibs on deals). As a rule of thumb, remember that ski hire, lift passes and lessons can add around €300 to package prices.

Travel Tip

Make sure your travel insurance covers ‘winter sports’. Ski and snowboarding are extras on most policies.

REVIEW: Catriona Doherty visits The Johnstown Estate Hotel and Spa, Meath

am a massive fan of nights and weekends away, and I love going somewhere new I have not visited before. The Johnstown Esatate Hotel and Spa is not a new hotel, the ‘Country Gentleman’s Style’ house was built back in the 1700s and the property has undergone a €10 million refurb recently. When I heard about the hotel, and a quick Google search showed its location to be only two hours and 15 minutes away from Belfast, I booked in for a girlie weekend. Here’s why you should check it out for your next staycation:

The Spa

I had one of best massages of my life (and I’m not exaggerating), under the soothing hands of therapist Kasia. Despite the firm pressure I even drifted off to sleep towards

the end, I was that relaxed. The price of a 30-minute massage starts from €55 and that includes the use of the spa facilities; steam rooms, outdoor hot tub, pool, Jacuzzi, caldarium (heated seats), and the relaxation room. “You could spend all day in there,” my friend remarked and we certainly gave it a good go. Judging by all the groups of ladies using the spa, it’s clearly a popular spot for girlie getaways.

Kids’ entertainment

Children will love exploring the newlyopened forest fairy walk. Fairy-hunters follow the signs through the woods, passing miniature wooden houses hidden amongst the trees, toadstools, and brightly-coloured stones leading to a giant pink fairy door. We made our way through the woodland

on a bright, sunny autumnal afternoon and the only sound was of the crunch of the crisp fallen leaves underfoot. Despite not spotting any fairies, it felt magical. For family-friendly accommodation, see the self-catering lodges, and the hotel’s family bedrooms which are ideal for two adults and two children.

Location

Located just 35 minutes from Dublin city centre, the hotel is ideal for exploring Ireland’s capital. You can catch a bus or train from the nearby village of Enfield in to the city. The Guinness Storehouse, Chocolate Warehouse, Dublin Zoo, Tayto Park and Kildare Village are all nearby.

The dining experience

Foodies will love The Johnstown Estate. Fire & Salt restaurant specialise in steak and the signature dish is beef - ‘dry-aged in Himalayan sea-salt, seared, sealed and

Ginger Bread Village will be installed with its network of model trains and twinkling Christmas trees.

Friendly staff

The team at Johnstown Estate are diligent and attentive. Our friendly waiter, Aziz, took the time to make food and wine recommendations ensuring we had everything we needed, despite it being a busy night with a wedding taking place in one of the function rooms.

Christmas deals

caramelized over embers in the custommade charcoal grill oven’. Served with triple-cooked chips and creamy peppercorn sauce, it tastes every bit as good as it sounds. The Coach House bar offer pub grub classics. You can also book in for afternoon tea, and from November 30th the kids’

You can avail of a number of deals such as the Festive Shopping Experience. The cost is €155 for two, which includes an overnight stay in an executive king room with breakfast, afternoon tea, and a 10% discount for Kildare Village (25 miles away). Or gift a loved one ‘The Christmas Gift Box’ experience, which includes dinner, accommodation, breakfast, and Prosecco and chocolate strawberries in-room on arrival.

MEATH TOP THREE 1 Tayto Park is home to a theme park with a roller coaster, 5D cinema, extreme wall climbing frame and sky walking trail. It also has a zoo featuring big cats, monkeys, birds of prey and more. It closes for winter from 23rd December to April 6th, but before it shuts Tayto Park is hosting The Christmas Experience. Visitors will have an opportunity to visit Santa’s Grotto, meet the elves and the man himself. 2 Newgrange World Heritage Site is home to an ancient passage tomb that was built 5,200 years ago (3,200BC) which makes it older than Stonehenge and the Great Pyramids of Giza. Newgrange is known for the illumination of its passage and chamber by the winter solstice sun. People gather at Newgrange for the winter solstice dawn on each of the mornings from December 18th to December 23rd. Sunrise is at 8.58am and guests are welcome to stand on the outside of the monument. 3 You may have visited Slane Castle in the past to party to Robbie Williams, The Verve or U2 (memories, memories), but there are other reasons to visit in addition to the open-air concerts. Take a guided historical tour through the castle, dine in The Gandon Room Restaurant, or enjoy a drink and light bite in Browne’s Bar.

delicious seafood special, and for dessert the mouthwateringly good ‘Chocolate Fondant Meli Nelo’; peanut butter, coco nibs rum semi freddo ice-cream.

3. The breakfast

5 reasons to visit the AC Hotel Belfast Northern Woman checks out the AC Hotel by Marriott Belfast

1. The rooms

The rooms at AC Hotel Belfast are ultramodern with little touches of luxury such as the Nespresso coffee machine, glass enclosed double showers, comfy king size beds and access to 24-hour room service. From the 18th floor Belfast’s skline looks pretty impressive as darkness falls and the city lights twinkle below. Hotel guests have access to a gym, riverside terrace, and the AC Lounge which is the perfect place to relax over a cuppa.

2. Novelli at City Quays

French celebrity chef Jean-Christophe Novelli’s restaurant ‘Novelli at City Quays’ is a stylish French and Mediterraneaninfluenced brasserie that is open all day, offering breakfast, afternoon tea, lunch, dinner, and cocktails and tapas at the bar. During our visit we tried the signature dish ‘My Own French Onion Soup’. The hearty soup arrived piping hot with a golden pastry lid that we couldn’t wait to crack. We followed this up with an equally

The AC Hotel Belfast breakfast spread included all the usual favourites you would expect, plus unexpected extras such as spanish omelette, chia seed pudding, and an array of cheese and charcuterie. The guilt-free creamy chia seed pudding tasted like chocolate, and was a delicious, healthy accompaniment to our fresh fruit bowl.

4. Location

Located on Donegall Quay, the AC Hotel Belfast is conveniently situated on the edge of the city centre, with all the associated amenities on your doorstep. The hotel overlooks the River Lagan and iconic landmarks including the Samson and Goliath cranes and Titanic Belfast.

5. Titanic Boat Tours pickup point

The Lagan Boat Company’s Titanic Boat Tours pontoon is situated right beside the the AC Hotel (approx. two-minute walk away). This was our first time to go on the Titanic Boat Tour and we would definitely recommend the experience. Adult tickets cost £12 for the 60-minute excursion. ‘The Mona’ has enclosed heated seating area downstairs, in addition to two open air decks. We sailed along the Titanic Quarter while our guide shared anecdotes and history lessons of the old docklands and more modern developments.

REVIEW: Ciara Hedgcock gets festive at Maryville House

aryville House, on Belfast’s Lisburn Road, is unique. It has a homely yet grand feel to it. We were offered a glass of non-alcoholic mulled punch, which we sipped while choosing a speciality tea or coffee to have with our festive afternoon tea. Christmas spices created an exquisite aroma that seemed to drift throughout the room. The stylish decorations and candles in abundance created a warm and welcoming atmosphere, suddenly I felt very Christmassy! Our waitress talked us through the threetiered vintage cake stand; on the bottom tier was a scrumptious array of hot and cold savoury treats. The middle tier had a lovely mix of tasty sandwiches and the delicious famous Maryville scones with locally

produced Abernethy butter, homemade jam (made with fruit grown on the family farm), and cream accompaniment. The top tier was an explosion of colourful sweet and decadent mini cakes, desserts and mince pies. It all looked so pretty and dainty on the cake stand, but surprisingly we found ourselves taking a break and enjoyed our teapots being topped up while we blissfully relaxed in our festive surroundings. I read that Maryville House is proud to have its own bakery, where their bakers devote love and attention to their creations daily, using locally-sourced ingredients. All the food is prepared in house and is made to order. We happily ate a little more of the flavoursome savoury and sweet delights before admitting defeat, or was it? Karin offered us a bespoke Maryville House pastry

box so that we could enjoy our remaining treats at home; a nice touch and good opportunity to purchase additional scones for the following morning. Maryville House is not just a tearoom, breakfast or lunch destination, it is also a beautiful boutique bed and breakfast. A great location for an overnight or longer stay. I had a peek at the private room upstairs, which is perfect for larger parties. So, if it is afternoon tea for two, or thirtyfive, Maryville House can look after you in style.

The Maryville House Festive Afternoon Tea costs £24.95 per person. Chocolate and coffee flavour, and chocolate and raspberry flavour bûche de Noël cakes can be made to order for entertaining at home. To book a table call: 028 9068 1510. For more information visit: www.maryvillehouse.co.uk.

REVIEW: Northern Woman dines at Balloo House, Killinchy

alloo House is a quaint, historic pub and restaurant hidden away in the County Down countryside. We dined in the Upstairs restaurant. With only seven or eight tables in the room, the setting is intimate and luxurious. The décor is an eclectic mishmash of the old and new featuring exposed stone walls, French parquet flooring, sparkling chandeliers, ornate gold-trimmed mirrors and hanging tapestries. The team at Balloo House pride themselves on their choice of locallysourced seafood and dry Irish beef, so with that in mind we ordered our starter and main; ‘Crispy salt and chilli squid’, and the ‘Balloo House butcher’s board’. Prior to our order arriving, we were

treated to wheaten bread, olive tapenade, and a surprise amuse-bouche; ‘Celeriac and apple velouté, with black pudding and apple sausage roll’. The savoury sauce/velouté was quirkily presented in a miniature teacup, it had a velvety texture that was the perfect accompaniment to the sausage roll. Our squid starter was delicious, presented on a bed of Asian-slaw with chilli

FACTFILE

Balloo House is one of three Balloo Inns’ restaurants, the others are The Parson’s Nose and The Poacher’s Pocket. Pricing: Starters cost £7 -£8, main courses are £18 -£25, and desserts cost from £4-£8. Contact details: For reservations call: 028 9754 1210, or visit: www.ballooinns.com.

ham and garlic mayo dips on the side. The ‘Balloo House butcher’s board’ serving size was so generous it could quite possibly be shared by two diners. The meaty main consisted of a 6oz picanha steak, beef shin pie, pastrami rib, crispy onion rings, triple cooked chips, and peppercorn sauce. The aforementioned was served on a long wooden board – it was an impactful dish that passed our taste test with flying colours. To finish we sampled the ‘Pear and chocolate tart’ and ‘Sticky toffee pudding’. Both were sensational. The moist sponge cake was drenched in a decadent, warm butterscotch sauce alongside a generous dollop of vanilla ice-cream, and the tart was paired with homemade pistachio ice-cream. We finished off the evening with a nightcap enjoyed in the downstairs bar in front of the roaring open fire.

Paula and Santa

The Bistro area

The Ivanhoe Hotel The award-winning Ivanhoe Hotel has just undergone a major revamp, general manager and owner, Paula Keane tells us more… year 2018 award at The Northern Ireland Hospitality Awards. Commenting on the accolade, Paula says: “Obviously I was delighted, but the main benefit was the huge boost winning such an award gave to all our staff. It was recognition of the hard work and commitment from the team, and it also made us feel that we had done the

The Bracken Suite

right thing in pressing ahead with the refurbishment works.” The party season provides the perfect excuse to visit the hotel and there’s a little something to suit all ages. “Christmas at the Ivanhoe is a very special time,” Paula says. “We provide events for all the family such as our Santa Sunday Carvery on 16th December which includes great food, a visit from Santa with a photographer on hand to take family portraits on the premises, face-painting and a small gift for the children. “Our three Party Nights with four-course meal, DJ and photobooth, are selling out fast. Although we are not open on Christmas Day, Boxing Day is a big day in the Ivanhoe calendar. This year we will be welcoming our guests with a lovely glass of mulled wine on arrival, followed by a festive carvery in our Lagan Suite and there will be plenty of fun activities for the children including balloon modelling. “The highlight of our Christmas celebration is our Grand New year’s Eve Gala Dinner. This promises to be an unforgettable evening of stupendous food and first-class live entertainment which this year features a fantastic Michael Bublé tribute act.”

For more information on The Ivanhoe Hotel call: 028 9081 2240, email: ivanhoecarryduff@gmail.com, or visit: www.ivanhoeinn.co.uk

 ADVERTORIAL

otel, bar, restaurant, wedding and party venue, and conference venue; The Ivanhoe Hotel caters for all of your entertainment needs. Located in Carryduff, only six miles from Belfast City Centre, the venue is perfectly situated close to the amenities of the city, in a quiet location with free car parking and favourable pricing. The Ivanhoe Hotel dates back to the 1800s, when it began as a Spirit Grocers and was a well-known stopping off point for travellers making their way from Belfast to Saintfield. This year the venue underwent a major revamp, but the owners were keen to retain the historic essence of the hotel. Paula Keane explains: “Whilst the Ivanhoe had an extremely welcoming and homely feel, we thought it was time to update to a more cosmopolitan image as there are so many new hotels coming on the scene. “Our main concern was that some of the nicest original features would be removed, but fortunately, the designers were able to retain them. Recent refurbishments have thoroughly modernised the building, and the original features have been retained and seamlessly integrated into the more modern surroundings.” The Ivanhoe Hotel is family owned, and as such the team always go that extra mile to offer customers personal attention and unbeatable customer service. The exceptional standard of service coupled with a super stylish venue led to The Ivanhoe Hotel winning the Hotel of the

A note from the writer James Oliver

White Boy Rick

Movie roundup James Oliver’s round up of movies coming to a cinema near you this month

White Boy Rick

This movie recounts the true story of Richard Wershe Jr who, in the 1980s, became the FBI’s youngest informant while expanding his own drug empire. He would inevitably be arrested and sentenced to life in prison. Starring: Matthew McConaghey, Richie Merritt and Bell Powley Release Date: Friday 7th December

The Old Man And The Gun

Another true story, this film is based on Forrest Tucker. Forrest managed to escape San Quentin State Prison, California, at 70 years of age, before pulling off a string of audacious heists that caught the attention of authorities and the public alike. This is Robert Redford’s swansong to end his acting career. Starring: Robert Redford, Casey Affleck and Sissy Spacek Release Date: Friday 7th December

Sorry To Bother You

success which will help propel him into a world ruled by greed. Starring: Lakeith Stanfield, Tessa Thompson and Jermaine Fowler Release Date: Friday 7th December

Mary Poppins Returns

Fifty four years after the original Disney hit, Emily Blunt leads an all-star cast in Mary Poppins Returns. The nanny returns to care for the Banks children once more, who are now all grown up with kids of their own. This is another warm and magical film to continue the legacy of this classic, just in time for the holiday season. Release Date: Friday 21st December Starring: Emily Blunt, Meryl Streep and Colin Firth

Holmes and Watson

In present day Oakland, a telemarketer named Cassius Green is finding it difficult to progress up the career ladder. That is until he discovers a way to gain professional

The movie is a humorous take on the classical adventures of the dynamic duo, this time portrayed by Will Ferrell and John C. Reilly. This adventure sees the pair racing against time to save the life of the Queen when her life is threatened. Release Date: Wednesday 26th December Starring: Will Ferrell, John C. Reilly and Lauren Lapkus

Having always had a love for films and the cinema, in 2015 I decided to undertake film reviews as a hobby. My first film review was Insidious: Chapter 3. I remember attending a screening of it in the odyssey cinema. I’d loved the previous Insidious entries up until then, and even brought a pen and notepad with me (which didn’t really work out as you can’t see, never mind write anything whilst watching a film). I had my first review published in a locally-distributed magazine called Bloom. An old friend had got in contact with me about the opportunity and I couldn’t help but jump at it. It was for the Wonder Woman film starring Gal Gadot and was an adaption of the popular comic book heroine. Seeing my name in print and knowing people were reading my review made me very happy and thankful. A representative from Northern Woman magazine came into my workplace one day asking if we’d be interested in taking out an advertisement in the magazine. Whilst showing us the magazine she kindly directed us to a page dedicated to film reviews each month, and that’s when I jumped in and said I did film reviews on a regular basis. The young woman put me in touch with the editor of the magazine, Catriona, and the rest is history. It’s been an absolute privilege to be able to contribute to this magazine every month and to see my reviews being distributed to a larger audience and I can’t wait to continue. It just goes to show, with persistence and determination you can make your dreams come true, and I’m thankful for it every day.

IDEAL FOR MOVIE FANS - PURCHASE IN STORE TODAY

odysseycinemas.co.uk

GIFT VOUCHERS

FREE PARKING, 2 MEDIUM DRINKS, 2 SNACKS, 2 TICKETS

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— COMPETITION —

in The Perfect W Christmas Gift A £100 Hastings Hotels Gift Card!

The WINTER ESTATE Punch Ingredients

300ml Shortcross Gin 200ml Warm Apple Juice 150ml Warm Lemon Juice 60ml Crème de Mure Cinnamon, dehydrated fruits and star anise

Method

• Gently warm apple and lemon juice in saucepan. • Add Shortcross Gin and Crème de Mure to a punch bowl and add in warmed ingredients. • Garnish with cinnamon, star anise and dehydrated fruits. • Serve warm in a tempered glass.

orthern Ireland’s leading collection of hotels have teamed up with Northern Woman to give you the chance to win a fabulous Hastings Hotels Gift Card for £100! As the season for giving approaches and thoughts of stressful shopping trips spring to mind, the Hastings Hotels Group will help take the strain out of your Christmas shopping. Hastings Hotels have a wide choice of fabulous gift cards and vouchers available, which will solve all your Christmas present worries in no time at all. The versatile gift gards can be used towards granting Christmas wishes all year round in any of the seven luxurious hotels in Northern Ireland’s leading hotel group. The gift cards are redeemable at any one of the seven Hastings Hotels, in the two magnificent spas and any of their restaurants or bars. A gift card from Hastings Hotels is the ideal gift for family and friends this Christmas, as they can choose the perfect present for themselves, be it a special night out, a luxury weekend, an afternoon tea, a spa treatment or even a round of drinks at the bar. Every budget is catered for, with cards available from £10 to much, much more. During the month of November, Hastings have a very special offer to get your Christmas shopping off to a great start. For every £100 of gift cards you buy before the end of November, you will receive a £10 card for yourself to spend in any of the hotels. So what are you waiting for? To purchase Hastings gift cards visit: www.hastingshotels.com or contact head office on: 028 9047 1066. n

TO ENTER To be in with a chance of winning simply answer the following question: How many Hastings hotels are there in Northern Ireland? Email your answer and contact details to competitions@ northernwoman.co.uk before 5pm on Friday 21 December. T&Cs: The prize is as detailed and non-transferrable. INM T&Cs apply.

LET’S DRINK TO…

Wine Recommendation from Rebecca Robb: Amarone della Valpolicella

Festive fizz BY PAULA GRACEY

‘D

ecember will be magic again’, in the words of Kate Bush on one of my many Christmas albums. I love Christmas music, in fact, I love absolutely everything about this time of year, except maybe the crazy folks who clearly don’t get out much all year and then head out full of Christmas spirit, cramming all the bars to capacity, not knowing how to behave. That aspect aside, I especially love how we tend to push out the tinseltopped boat during the festive season when it comes to food and drink, and the fizz is always flowing. Whether it is Champagne, Cava or Prosecco, fizz just says it is time to celebrate! If Prosecco is your passion then I have a great idea for something special to try this festive season… the Valdo Prosecco Flight at Belfast’s swanky Merchant Hotel. It all began with a month-long Festival of Prosecco in the Merchant in September that proved so popular it continued. The ‘flight’ consists of three glasses of Valdo Prosecco for £13.95; Valdo Origine Spumante, Valdo Origine Rose and Valdo Bio. Valdo Prosecco dates back to 1926 and is a multi-award winner. Fine and fruity aromas are the first thing you will notice about the Origine Spumante Brut, delicate floral hints and green apple followed by lovely fresh and fruity tasting flavours, ending with subtle sweetness. The Valdo Origine Rose is a beautiful rose blush colour and on the nose you get aromas of blossom and raspberries – very inviting. When you take a sip, you still get those lovely red fruit flavours and it has tiny, elegant bubbles – a very sophisticated pink. Again, this is perfect on its own as an aperitif but equally good to follow on to fish or seafood starters. The Valdo Bio Prosecco is a Brut fizz, produced exclusively from organically-certified grapes. It is delicately fruity and floral and has an abv (alcohol by volume) of 11% and 65 calories per 100 ml which is in keeping with the demand for healthier alcoholic beverages. If you want to give the gift of Champagne in all its glory, you will not fail to impress with a boxed Tattinger, £52, from the Wine Company. It’s definitely on my Christmas list. Joyeux Noël, everyone!

t’s the most magical time of the year! December, when Jack Frost’s fingers etch icy snowflake patterns on window panes, indoors log fires blaze fiercely and orange and purple dancing flames reflect in shimmering baubles of silver and gold. December is luxury, indulgence and opulence all wrapped up in a cosy blanket of sheer delight. This month’s wine Amarone Della Valpolicella is a wine lover’s paradise. Unique and distinguished, I have seen the faces of many wine buffs light up with joy as they spy this hedonistic wine on our list. Hailing from the Veneto region of Italy, Amarone showcases the classic Valpolicella blend of Corvina, Rondinella and Molinara grape varieties. The thick skinned Corvina and Rondinella grapes lend themselves perfectly to the process of “appassimento” whereby the grapes berries are semi dried in airy barns prior to vinification. The resulting nectar is rich, concentrated and complex in equal measure. A deep moody dark purple in the glass leads onto a perfumed nose with morello cherries taking the lead, and in the background warming notes of clove spice. A riot of red berry flavours thrills the palate, blackberry, plum and dark cherry jostle for attention. Strong firm tannins courtesy of Molinara give you a wine worthy of ageing and lying down for that “let me pop down to the cellar for a little beauty” moment! Incidentally, some Italian growers make a wine labelled as “ripasso”, which is produced using the pressed skins of Amarone grapes alongside traditional vinification. These wines have the characteristics of Amarone with a slightly more affordable price tag for amazing every day wine consumption. To partner this, one of my favourite Italian reds I have to say, Chef has created his very delicious and seasonal Roast Chicken Supreme with Wild Mushroom Risotto, Porcini Cream & Truffle Oil.

ROAST CHICKEN SUPREME WITH WILD MUSHROOM RISOTTO, PORCINI CREAM & TRUFFLE OIL Ingredients: • 1 small onion peeled and finely chopped • 2 sticks celery trimmed and finely chopped • 400 g risotto rice • 75 ml vermouth or white wine • sea salt • freshly ground black pepper • 4 large handfuls wild mushrooms (try shiitake, girolle, chestnut or oyster), cleaned and sliced • a few sprigs fresh chervil, tarragon or parsley, leaves picked and chopped • 1 teaspoon butter • 1 small handful Parmesan cheese, freshly grated, plus extra for serving • extra virgin olive oil • 1.5 litres organic chicken or vegetable stock, hot • 1 handful dried porcini mushrooms • olive oil Method 1. Heat your stock in a saucepan and keep it on a low simmer. Place the porcini mushrooms in a bowl and pour in just enough hot stock to cover. Leave for a couple of minutes until they’ve softened. Fish them out of the stock and chop

them, reserving the soaking liquid. 2. In a large pan, heat olive oil and add the onion and celery. Slowly fry without colouring them for at least 10 minutes, then turn the heat up and add the rice. Give it a stir. Stir in the vermouth or wine. Keep stirring until the liquid has cooked into the rice. Now pour the porcini soaking liquid through a sieve into the pan and add the chopped porcini, a good pinch of salt and your first ladle of stock. Turn the heat down to a simmer and keep adding ladlesful of stock, stirring the rice, allowing each ladleful to be absorbed before adding the next. 3. Carry on adding stock until the rice is soft but with a slight bite. This will take about 30 minutes. 4. Take the risotto off the heat and check the seasoning carefully. Stir in the butter and the Parmesan and cooked mushrooms then add a bit more stock if you think it needs it. Put a lid on and leave the risotto to relax for about 3 minutes. 5. Take your risotto and add a little more seasoning or Parmesan if you like. Serve risotto topped with the Roast chicken breast, a sprinkling of freshly grated Parmesan and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.

THE SOCIAL 5

Northern Woman’s round up of December’s most happening events

The grand Central Hall in Mount Stewart, Co Down, is home to exhibition ‘Faces of Change: Votes for Women’ from 9th November to 3rd February. This exhibition presents an overview of the campaign for women’s suffrage from the late 19th century until the first decades of the twentieth century, and commemorates the passing of the act which gave thousands of women in Britain and Ireland the right to vote in general elections.

Get in the festive spirit at Hillsborough Castle, Co Down. For the Victorians, ghost stories were an essential custom of the season - scare yourselves silly in the candle-lit Throne Room on 28th December with a special reading of ghost stories by internationallyacclaimed actor Ian McElhinney. The talented Cappella Caeciliana choir will deliver a programme of festive readings, poetry and choral music on 1st December, and Christmas card making classes will take place on 2nd December.

Comedy writing and acting duo, Caroline Curran and Julie Maxwell, have teamed up for a bawdy and hilarious take on Christmas classic It’s a Wonderful Life. Instead of 1940’s small-town America, it’s set in modern day Belfast where an angel is more likely to get wings by downing a can of Red Bull, than helping out a troubled soul. The It’s a Wonderful Wee Christmas show will take place at Theatre at the Mill, Newtownabbey, from 4-31 December.

Have yourself a Derry little Christmas at the Winterland Market with food stalls, a festive bar serving craft and artisan drinks, live music, and a special appearance from arctic polar creature Bjorn the Bear. The market will run from 13-17 December in the Guildhall Square.

Sundown Market will return to Bangor Seafront on Saturday 15th December for a seasonal special, with live entertainment on stage. Artisan producers and gourmet street food stalls from all over Northern Ireland will join some of Bangor’s best eateries to offer an array of seasonal foodie treats. The popular craft beer tent returns with a range of locally-brewed beers and gins, and there’ll be a pop-up Prosecco bar for bubbly fans.

Mr & Mrs Hamill Photos by Gwen Courtman

allymena couple Olya Magill and Barry Hamill first met ten years ago on a blind date organised by Olya’s friend. “We met each other a handful of times, however we then went to different universities and lost contact,” Olya begins. “Two years later, I bumped into Barry at a friend’s birthday dinner and the rest is history. “Our dating days were full of fun and laughter, and I always looked forward to the next one. It didn’t take long for me to realise that Barry was the one for me; he was my best friend, he always knew how to make me smile and I could totally be myself around him. I knew that I was falling in love with him a bit more each time I saw him.” Four years after they met Barry proposed during a surprise weekend away in Letterkenny. Olya had always dreamed of a wedding abroad and the couple chose to tie the knot in Lake Garda, Italy, in August 2018. She says: “I was born in Belarus. I decided to do a world theme as a lot of my family couldn’t go to the wedding and I wanted to be able include a part of the country in my special day. We had Russian dolls from Belarus as favours, and the tables were named after places that meant something to us.” The bride looked sensational in a Paloma Blanca dress from Perfect Day, accessorised with a chapel-length veil, a crystal comb, and a jacket from Tahlia Leather, Moira. The couple had their first dance to track Firestones by Kygo. Olya’s favourite memory of her day was a boat trip after the ceremony. “I was able to sit back and take in the lovely views with my close friends and family. It was at this point that I realised that I was now married.” Barry’s favourite memory was “seeing my beautiful bride walk down the aisle and knowing that she was soon going to be my wife”. The newlyweds are looking forward to honeymooning in the Caribbean in the New Year.

Ceremony location: Malcesine Castle, Lake Garda Reception location: La Voglia, Lake Garda Dress: Perfect Day, Lurgan Groomswear: Wallace’s of Ballymena

Eileen Moss and Tammy Morgan

Down Royal Festival of Racing

Jame DeBox and Gillian Allison Most Stylishly Dressed Lady Shileen McConville

Emma McGladdery, Kerry Davison and Samantha McMurray

The 20th and final Down Royal Festival of Racing has taken place at Down Royal Racecourse, with Road to Respect taking home the last ever JNwine.com Champions Chase title. Off the track, Eamonn Carr from Armagh was named Most Stylishly Dressed Male. JNwine.com Ladies Day saw specially invited guests gather for a celebration of Ladies in Racing including Sandra Hughes, Maureen Mullins, Jessica Harrington and Nina Carberry. The winner of the BillecartSalmon Most Stylishly Dressed Lady competition was Shileen McConville from Lurgan. Photos by Kelvin Boyles, Press Eye Kathryn Boyle, Sinead Mulholland and Nicole Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Neill

Julieann Fearon, Shileen McConville, Shauna Mulgrew and Victoria Shanks

Claire and Ryan McGeary

Lisa Noakes and Elizabeth McElroy

Helen Beattie, Carla Heaslip, Katie Walker and Robyn Coulter

Nigel and Margaret Simpson

Deric and Clare Henderson

Most Stylishly Dressed Male Eamonn Carr, and Chris Suitor

Edel Kearney, Christine Coulson and Joanne Doyle

Ruth Laverty and Laura Shiels

West Coast Cooler FASHIONWEEK As always West Coast Cooler FASHIONWEEK was a stylish affair, as local fashionistas arrived dressed for the occasion, and the very latest trends were seen both on and off the catwalk. The main runway event took place at St. Anne’s Cathedral, and fringe events Sushi Saturday and Style Sunday were as popular as ever. Photos by Brendan Gallagher

Emer Parke, Laura O’Hanlon and Tara Pedreschi

Lisa Rooney and Laura Rooney

Stacey McGrath and Deidre Faulkner

Kelly Johnston and Sarah Jane Johnston

Rachel McShane, Sandra Pedreschi and Zara McDowell

Mairead McCartney and Katrina Crilly

Aileen O’Doherty, Bernie O’Doherty and Katrina Crilly

Claire Hart and Joyce Craig

Hannah Whittaker and Natasha Moffatt

Gayle McCabe and Joanne Alexander

Ibe and Colleen Sesay

Dianne Foster, Linda McAuley, Pamela Ballantine and Susan Spence

Ballantines Day, Titanic Hotel Belfast

Over 150 close friends and family gathered for TV star, Pamela Ballantine’s 60th birthday celebrations which were held recently at the Titanic Hotel Belfast. Guests celebrated with Pamela for her significant birthday with great food and wine, and danced the night away with Q Radio’s Ibe Sesay who played hits from the past six decades. This year also marks Pamela’s 40th year in broadcasting. Photos by Kelvin Boyes, Press Eye

Pamela Ballantine

Olivia Johnston and Marc Mallett

Ian and Nicola Bothwell

Ashley French, Sean McCann, Phyllis Hayes and Peter Dowds

Pamela Brady and Susan McCartney

The 20th Down Royal Festival of Racing launch The 20th Down Royal Festival of Racing was launched at The Orpheus, Belfast. Mike Todd, General Manager at Down Royal Racecourse welcomed familiar faces and celebrated jockeys including Katie Walsh, David Russell, Mick Fitz and Alice Plunkett from ITV Racing, who participated in a panel to discuss the start of the National Hunt Season. Victoria McCandless, Mick Fitzgerald and Molly McCluskey

Photos by Matt Mackey, Press Eye

Alice Plunkett and Mike Todd

Alison Campbell and Lauren Moore

Maggie Dimsdale-Bobby and Tara Cunningham

Lorna Akroyd and Carmel Gallagher

Fashion Fest The Guildhall The Guildhall, Derry/Londonderry, was transformed from civic hub to catwalk spectacular as Fashion Fest made its fabulous return. The festival has become the biggest showcase of fashion design in the North West, drawing a wide range of emerging and established names in the industry. The show was presented by Derry Girls favourite Dylan Llewellyn, otherwise fondly known as ‘the wee English fella’ and it was a fabulous night of catwalk fashion.

Katie and Anne Maguire

Photos by Darren Kidd, Press Eye

Caitlin Doherty, Rosie O’Doherty and Aoifa Belle

Amy Donaghy and Susanna Smith

Rachel Ivers and Annette Armstrong

Welliana Valerio and Guia Tanganell

Christine Cowley and Clare Cooper

Anna O’Doherty and Miya O’Brien Cheryl McKeegan and Rachel Rankin

Claire Patersen and Alan Toye

Joe Boyle and Maria Morley Dylan Llewellyn and Leah O’Rourke

Deidre and Kate Grant

Send us your photos! Thanks to all who submitted photos for Here & There. To be featured simply take a photo of you with Northern Woman out and about locally or abroad, and email your photo to NW editor Catriona: c.doherty@independentmagazinesni.co.uk. Every month one reader will win a ‘Pic of the Month’ prize – so well done to Bernie Mc Cormack who has won an Ella & Jo gift set.

F PIC O THE H T MON

Bernie McCormack enjoys the sun in Menorca

Barbara Specchia at ASG & Partners, Belfast, reading Northern Woman during her lunch break

HERE & THERE

Cara Tan pictured with Northern Woman before her dance competition

Yavuz Özdeniz pictured at Aya Sophia, Istanbul, Turkey

Elizabeth Cherry relaxing at the Slieve Donard Resort and Spa

Have your brand featured here and reach your target audience. To sponsor Here & There contact Ciara Hedgcock on 077 69951 595 or email c.hedgcock@independentmagazinesni.co.uk

R E G BLOG CORNER

BY CHARLOTTE MCAULEY FROM RASCAL ÉTOILE

very time I see one of those inspirational quote type things, you know, “What if I fall? But oh my darling what if you fly”, I cringe a little inside. A creature of habit, I have never been a fan of change and spontaneity may cause hives. I have my routine, I like my routine. For example, I hate the idea of a surprise getaway. The Monica in me needs to know exactly where we’re going, what we’re doing and do I need to bring a coat. Well, just like Alanis said, “life has a funny way of sneaking up on you” and as it turns out, this has been the year of the thing I worried about most: change, and quite a bit of it at that. And no, it wasn’t that I got married or had a baby, not even close. I didn’t even lose a few pounds, if anything they seem to have multiplied. No, this has been the year of dusting myself down and picking myself up, stepping forward into something a little bit scary, a little bit challenging and more than a little bit good. I’m talking about taking chances, I’m talking about ‘career’. A word I probably enjoy even less than change. Coincidentally the two went hand-in-hand this year and you know what, it wasn’t half bad. I left my teaching job in France, returned home to Cushendall, and got my dream job at an auction house in Belfast. You see, I read something at the beginning of the year that really hit a nerve. Of course, it was on Instagram: “I am not who I thought I was then. I will not be who I think I am when I look back from the future. Still learning is what I hope

Maybe change is not so bad…

to remain. People don’t change, they just become more themselves.” For whatever reasons, this little paragraph on my news feed stood out among the filters and the sponsored ads and all of a sudden I was asking myself all sorts of questions, among them being, what the heck am I doing with myself? I had never envisioned a move back to Belfast. A beach bum and Francophile, you would have had to drag me kicking and screaming back to the city and, a bit like my parents, I had given up on the idea of that art history degree ever being put to good use. But things have a way of coming full circle and after giving up Pollock for Prada, here I am back again. Although interestingly, surrounded by both. That’s what working at an auction house will do. 2018 has taught me this; you should never really give up on where your true passion lies. Trust your instinct and go with the gut.

Want to know more? rnncommunications.com

As the new year beckons, I’m going to worry less about change, about all the things I should be doing, or shouldn’t, and all the things everyone else seems to be doing, because challenges happen whether you like it or not. Instead of baggage, I’m carrying Little Louis into 2019 and I’m going to shimmy into yet another velvet trouser suit and get my tan on because let’s face it, some things will never change. And I will give myself and my girlfriends a good pat on the back for getting this far. Who knows what the new year will bring, here’s hoping for Jon Hamm, and maybe it’s not so much what next year will bring to you but what you will bring to next year (at the risk of sounding a little Kennedy-esque there). More importantly, here’s to good health and happiness, Charlotte

For more from Charlotte visit: www.rascaletoile. com or look up @rascaletoile on Instagram.

NORTHERN MAN

Christmas Stocking from Søstrene Grene £9.48

Jeff Meredith out and about in Northern Ireland

Radio Control G Shock from Chapelle at The Boulevard, Banbridge, £745

t’s our Christmas edition already, and looking back on my year it’s been full of adventures as I’ve travelled all over Northern Ireland staying in some great local hotels, visiting parts of our country I’d never even seen before. I’ve flown in a helicopter over the north coast to see Game of Thrones filming locations from the air. I went on my first mountain biking adventure in Blessingbourne Estate. I’ve visited the newly opened Montalto Estate and whizzed down the adult sized play area slides. I enjoyed a fantastic solo boating cruise around Fermanagh Lakelands. I have been up Slieve Donard a few times and I went to the North West to walk the walls and stay over in that Legenderry walled city. Recently I went on a mini adventure in Belfast to do a walking tour of some of our city centre’s built heritage ahead of the Heritage Open Day’s. Not long after the Glider transport launched I headed out on a daytrip to experience the city as a tourist using the new tram-like public transport routes connecting East and West Belfast. I joined the Glider at Dundonald Park and Ride and started my journey west with a £3 all-day travel pass; this meant I could hop on and off wherever I wanted to take in the sights or enjoy a tea or snack break. There are a lot of things to

do along the route and it’s a fantastic way to see Belfast in a completely new way. My first stop was General Merchants for breakfast (the stop is right at their front door), then I hopped back on board and headed past Ballyhackamore before visiting CS Lewis Square and getting a takeaway drink from The Lamppost Café. I completely skipped the city centre and headed west visiting Clonard Monastery, Hatch (opposite the Royal Victoria stop) for lunch, An Culturlann, Belfast City Cemetery, and the Gruffalo Trail at Colin Glenn. For the return trip I went via the Kennedy Centre, St. Peter’s Cathedral and Belfast City Hall, and I finished up with a stop for dinner in Cyprus Avenue on the Upper Newtownards Road. I packed a lot in and I could do it all over again and visit even more sights. I’m pretty sure no one imagined Glider would be such a great way to traverse Belfast as a tourist, but I can highly recommend hopping aboard and going on an adventure. And don’t forget if you’re over a certain age - it’s free! Thanks for reading and have a fantastic Christmas, Jeff

Flannel Overshirt from Brakeburn £39.99

Dior Farenheit Gift Set from The Perfume Shop at The Boulevard, Banbridge, £62

M&S Collection Coat £139, M&S Collection Shirt £29.50, M&S Collection Jeans £39.50, M&S Collection Trainers £39.50, M&S Collection Hat £7.50, M&S Collection Scarf £25, and Autograph Bag £109

Quilted Jacket from Brakeburn £74.99

GIFT

Guide

e know your already planning and may be baffled at what to by the big lawd for Christmas. Jeff Meredith has sent us his Christmas wishlist with present ideas for the man in your life. Check out his suggestions for grooming products, coats, bags, shoes and a very expensive watch. Hopefully you’ll be inspired.

Dermot O’Leary All In One Day Cream from Marks And Spencer £15

Fashion Jacket from Zara £49.99

Tipperary Precision Watch from Menarys £50

Badge Printed Trainer from River Island £35

Bag from Cactus £66.98

Stag Socks Gift Box By Powder from Menarys £28

— COMPETITION —

Win

A two-night stay at Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Sligo

e have teamed up with Radisson Blu Hotel to offer one lucky reader the chance to win a two-night break at Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa. Surrounded by the gorgeous countryside of Rosses Point, Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Sligo, offers stunning views of Sligo Bay and the neighbouring mountains. Having recently completed their refurbishment, Radisson Blu, Hotel & Spa, Sligo, is looking better than ever – with all bedrooms refurbished along with a refresh of the hotel’s popular AA Rosette Classiebawn Restaurant, a redesigned hotel lobby, and completion of the extended and renovated Waves Bar. The stunning newlook Benbulben Ballroom and Business Centre are chic, stylish and contemporary. During your stay take in the incredible landscape and enjoy all that the hotel’s location has to offer, including golf at championship courses, surfing at the beach, or some retail therapy close by. Onsite guests enjoy four-star accommodation, dining options in the AA Rosette Classiebawn Restaurant and Waves Bar or the chance to unwind in Solas Spa and Healthstyles Leisure Club. To celebrate their new look, Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Sligo, are giving one lucky reader the chance of winning two nights’ accommodation for two adults, plus dinner on one evening of your choice in the AA Rosette, Classiebawn Restaurant and a super buffet breakfast each morning.

For more information visit: www.radissonblu.com/en/hotel-sligo

TO ENTER Simply complete the sentence. What bay does the Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa overlook? Email your answer and contact details to competitions@northernwoman.co.uk before 5pm on Friday 28th December. T&Cs: The prize is subject to availability and is non-transferrable. The prize is for two nights’ bed & breakfast, with one meal for two. It is not valid for Christmas, New Year, Easter or bank holiday weekends. INM T&Cs apply.