Inspired Magazine November/December

Inspired LOCAL RELEVANT CHATTY

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INSPIRATIONAL:

Changing the World Meet Macka B!

Coffee Culture Don’t let the cold beat you – become a

WINTER WARRIOR FASHION

An outfit for every party

BETTER SKIN IN WINTER FOR THE GENTLEMAN..

FASHION

What’s hot in men’s winter fashion

www.Inspiredessex.co.uk | NOVEMBER /DECEMBER 2012 ISSUE 19

Exercise for an easier pregnancy

Opulent Styling To book an appointment call:

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living

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APRIL ISSUE 12

2012

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Horoscopes

Tracie - Magic & Glitter www.magicandglitter.co.uk Contact Number: 07956622279.

Scorpio October 24 - November 22 You will gain success this month through drive and leadership, welcome new products and changes. Avoid revealing your plans to early.

Sagittarius November 23 – December 21 This month patch up any misunderstandings, deal with employment affairs or issues. Avoid harping on about the bad side of things.

Capricorn December 22 - January 20 This month you receive more income from business, you will make new contacts and acquaintances. Avoid planning too

Keeping the cold at bay! p13

busy a schedule.

Aquarius January 21- February 19 You will be very popular a possible promotion is coming your way, make sure you attend to your responsibilies. Avoid being temperamental with your colleagues.

Pisces February 20 - March 20 This month be willing to change your plans at short notice, you may not like someone’s ideals, standards or beliefs, keep an open mind.

Avoid creating bad feelings at the office.

Aries March 21 - April 20 This month you are finding ways to economize, write a list, take a look at your savings accounts it may help you find a way.

Avoid becoming impatient with family members.

Taurus April 21 - May 21 Expand your interests, striving for emotional poise, look for new

Vintage Bride p16

friendships, have a fun day out with the family.

Avoid emotional scenes with partners.

Gemini May 22 - June 21 Improve your physical condition, take a look at your health and diet. Doing nothing gets you know where.

Avoid not letting others express their views.

Cancer June 22 - July 22 This month is all about hobbies and pursuits, get out in the fresh air its good for you. How about a romantic break with your loved one. Avoid taking inviting trouble with a loved one.

Leo July 23 - August 22 Time to lay the ground work for new projects, You feel inspired, take time to visit parents or your elder family members.

Avoid making changes that unsettle security.

Virgo August 23 - September 23

Bang & Olufsen BeoSound 8 p22

COVER

Try speaking your mind, be firm and decisive, Improve your

Photographer | GORDON SCAMMELL THE ART COLLECTION OF PHOTOGRAPHY

environment, experiment with new ideas.

MISTY TREES PANORAMA P MONO

Avoid having biased viewpoints.

Libra September 24 - October 23 We all like spending none more than a Libra, do you really need more Shoes and handbags? Ok just one more then.

Avoid over spending or carelessly.

4 PAGE | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2012 ISSUE 19 | www.Inspiredessex.co.uk

Gordon Scammell is a resident local artist at Interior Angle, Art Design Gallery, Chelmsford and has exhibited photographic work with Interior Angle since 2008.

He started by selling limited edition photography and now contributes work to the exciting new range of Gallery Limited Edition Photography. He is also a prolific contributor to various stock photographic image libraries. www.turnerbarnesgallery.com

CHATTY

HEALTH, BEAUTY & WELLBEING

LADIES FASHION

GENTLEMEN’S DEN

29 30 32 38

CINEMA

JUNIOR

THE GARDEN

HOME STYLE

39 41 42 44

DINE IN STYLE

OUT TO EAT

MOTORS

BUSINESS

48 4950

PETS

NHS

It’s November! …I think the cover of this month’s Inspired really sums up November, stark, grey and quite possibly drizzly. The cool, damp weather gives us the perfect excuse to snuggle up in cosy coats and jumpers and enjoy the crisp, cold air though, or alternatively turn the heating up, curl up on the sofa with this month’s magazine and enjoy a feast of winter inspiration.

A big, big thank you this month has to go to our contributor, the lovely Karin Ridgers, for her reviews and interviews. Karin is the creator of VeggieVision ( http://veggievision.tv) and a regular guest on Radio Essex , so she’s a great addition to the team at Inspired!

There’s rather a lot of sparkle in this issue, to brighten up the dark evenings. Glitzy gold and silver furniture, party wear and accessories combined with brightly coloured beauty trends are just the antidote, and if you’re feeling a bit ‘grey’ yourself, fear not as we’re packed with expert tips and tricks on how to become a ‘Winter Warrior’. …if you need a cuppa to go with your mag, we even have pages dedicated to coffee culture, with everything from mugs and coffee makers to swanky tables to perch them on.

DIRECTORY

We’d love to hear from you if you have any thoughts, comments or ideas about the magazine. …bye for now!

All the best

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Sarah

Twitter: @inspiredessex Sarah.clark@inspiredessex.co.uk www.inspiredessex.co.uk

Editor

Sarah Clark - M 07799 777018 sarah.clark@inspiredessex.co.uk

Advertising Manager Inspired Magazine, a Leed Limited publication, is published on a monthly basis. The publisher, editors and contributors accept no responsibility in respect of any products, goods or services that may be advertised or referred to in this issue or for any errors, omissions, misstatements or mistakes in any such advertisements or references.

The views expressed in Inspired magazine are those of the respective contributors, not necessarily those of the publishers. Reproduction in part or full is forbidden without the written permission of the publisher

The material in Inspired is subject to copyright.

All rights reserved.

Copyright ©2011 Leed Limited TA Inspired Magazine

Inspired magazine is distributed in Essex FREE to selected homes, businesses, dentists, doctors, train stations, Spas, Hotels, Odeon Cinemas and Broomfield Hospital.

Janet Patch - M 077 69214563 jan@inspiredessex.co.uk

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Office Telephone: Publisher: Office Address:

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2012 ISSUE 19 | PAGE 5

Editor

6 12 16 22 Hello!

Chatty

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2012 ISSUE 19 | www.Inspiredessex.co.uk

Fresh wreaths

Chatty

Oooh la la!

– by Elixabeth Mulholland

How do you fancy making your own smalls?

• Sewing thread • A sewing machine with a zig zag stitch or you can hand sew using French seams

I’ve been experimenting with making satin French Knickers, and I’ve found that once you get the hang of it, they are quite easy to make.

Treat yourself… or make them for a special gift.

They make a great Christmas stocking filler.

All good fabric shops stock plenty of colours of lightweight satin, and generally it costs under £5 a metre and you can choose from lots of different laces to trim too. Try contrasts like coffee on pale blue or cream on peach for a vintage look, then trim with ribbons, beads and pearls.

•

• •

To make up; Cut 2 pattern pieces, right sides together to make a pair These have a 5mm seam allowance Seam 1 right sides together (front) (wrong side first for French seams) • Seam 2 right sides together (back) • Seam 3 is the crotch so match the front and back seams right sides together • Now zig zag on the lace trim, it’s a good idea to pin it in place first so both sides of your knickers end in the same lace design.

You need;

You can see from my sketch you can either

•

• •

•

•

25cm (10”) fabric, look for soft satins or chiffon, plain or prints 1m narrow elastic 4 or 6 mm (1/4”) Up to 2 metres (2 1/4 yards) lace trim (optional)

pic 1: just trim the legs - try this one to start with, it’s the easiest option pic 2: curve the lace up at the hip and trim with a bow, this is quite flattering

1

2

3

• pic 3: cut the side seams to the waist and run the lace right up to the top, this is a good option if you’re not sure what size the recipient is as you can have ribbon tie sides so the size is adjustable. I would use the small size pattern for this to be multisize as it won’t matter if the sides are open more.

When you come to a corner on the lace you can either fold the ‘mitred corner’ and tuck the lace underneath, stitch down to secure fold, you can trim away this extra triangle of lace afterwards.

If you’re using scalloped lace follow the curves of the lace with a zigzag stitch and hand trim the satin away from behind afterwards.

Now elasticate the waistband, this is a little bit tricky. Follow my size chart, cut the elastic a couple of inches smaller than the actual waist size so they don’t fall down! I’d say cut a size 10/24”, 12/28”, 14/32”, 16/34” as a guide. Mark or place a pin to mark each quarter this will help you keep the gathers even when you are sewing. Mark the fabric at the side seams.

Start at the back seam and fold the fabric over tucking the raw edge under the elastic so you can’t see it, now zig zag stretching the elastic so your first quarter matches the side seam, then the front, other side and continue all the way around to the back seam until the stitching meets.

If you find this too difficult you can fold the fabric over once and place the elastic on top and zig zag stitch but option 1 is much neater.

Now add your bows or trims.

The first pair is always the hardest so be patient, it will get easier!!! You friends will (hopefully!) appreciate these gorgeous gifts. ..But if you don’t want to make them, you can buy these individually made knickers online from www.elizabeth-mulholland.com from £12.95

www.Inspiredessex.co.uk |

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2012 ISSUE 19 | PAGE 7

Chatty

Must Listen!

The brilliance of The Abbey Road Sessions is that it reveals a side to Kylie that we’ve never admitted to noticing, paired with her vocal prowess, which let’s face it, we’ve always been pretty sure of.

The Abbey Road Sessions Kylie Minogue

Think of a Kylie Minogue hit and what’s the first thing that comes to mind? Those recognisable pop arrangements? But hidden underneath that cheesy pop that we all love so much are lyrics with a emotional resonance.

Across the 16 reworked tracks, including previously unreleased track ‘Flower’, recorded with new arrangements and a full orchestra,

Have a Read...

From the moment the Military Wives sang together on BBC Two’s The Choir, their lives changed forever.

Their journey entranced the nation, and their story moved millions.

In December 2011, as the nation watched, the Military Wives’ single was named

Smoother, more soulful, you would be forgiven for drawing comparisons with Adele and Emeli Sandé, maybe a little too much in places, but surprisingly Kylie has achieved something different yet again. credit: www.redonline.co.uk

Wherever You Are - The Military Wives

Christmas Number 1. A few weeks earlier they had been just regular women living on military bases, they are the wives and girlfriends of soldiers deployed to Afghanistan. Here the wives tell their individual stories in full for the first time - true stories of heartbreak, hope, love and loss that speak to the heart of our country.

From the loneliness and isolation of life on a military base to the challenge of writing to men facing unimaginable horrors - and to the Choir that gave them comfort, solace and and friendship in the darkest of times - these are true, affecting and inspiring accounts straight from the wives themselves.

Watch

Michael McIntyre Showtime

Showtime is Michael McIntyre at his breathtaking best.

Following his two recordbreaking DVDs, Live and Laughing and Hello Wembley, Michael returns with his most hilarious show yet. Recorded during his phenomenal 10 night run at The 02 in London and part of his 71-date arena tour playing to over 700,000 fans. Michael raises the bar once again with his relentless energy and razor-sharp observations that has the crowd roaring with laughter! credit: www.play.com

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2012 ISSUE 19 | www.Inspiredessex.co.uk

Sales of this book will benefit the Military Wives Choirs Foundation, a network of choirs that reaches across the military community to provide support, guidance and funding for individual choirs, but first and foremost to bring women closer together through singing.The Foundation is a registered subsidiary charity of SSAFA Forces Help. credit: www.play.com

Pick Up

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Experience the authentic, true-to-life fragrance, with pure, natural extracts, and renowned Yankee Candle® quality. This 14.5oz Classic Housewarmer jar candle gift box set reflects a warm, relaxed sense of style that’s always at home. Convenient and easy to use, these ong-burning jars provide hours of true fragrance enjoyment.

They’re also the ideal gift for any occasion.

Burn Time 65 - 90 hours each. £19.99 www.yankee.co.uk

8 PAGE |

there’s no hiding her star power. From a strings instrumental of ‘Can’t Get You Out of My Head’ to a weaker 1950s style take on ‘The Locomotion’ that’s not quite right, it’s not until you get to some of her more emotive tracks such as ‘Come Into My World’ that the lyrics really start to take hold.

Chatty

Foodie Nostalgia Downton Abbey Style

In the last season of Downton Abbey many things threatened to come between Lady Mary and Matthew: War, death, and scandal. Luckily food wasn’t one of them, with Mrs Patmore and Daisy whipping up delicious culinary delights in their humble, ‘downstairs’ kitchen.

Now fans of the Emmy Award-winning series can bring upstairs and downstairs fare to their own dinner table with the next book in Adams’ bestselling Unofficial Cookbook series: The Unofficial Downton Abbey Cookbook: From Lady Mary’s Crab Canapés to Mrs Patmore’s Christmas Pudding - More Than 150 Recipes from Upstairs and Downstairs By Emily Ansara Baines (Author of the popular Unofficial Hunger Games Cookbook).

Featuring classic British delicacies, that Mrs Patmore and Daisy would be proud to present at an important Crawley family dinner, The Unofficial Downton Abbey Cookbook is sure to delight fans and foodies alike.

£11.89 from www.amazon.co.uk and £10.70 on Kindle Download – available now!

Travel Tip – Guernsey-By Karin Ridgers

We needed a break and wanted to avoid the stress of entertaining our 6 year old son Callum for several hours at the airport.

Guernsey sounded ideal and the drive to Condor Ferries in Poole just took three hours and with ease we checked in without even getting out of our car.

I was so pleased we upgraded to Club Class too - well worth the additional fee for cabin service and tea, coffee and biscuits were included too. The smaller space also felt more relaxing. We were invited to see the Captain - and Callum even got to sit in the Captain’s chair.

We managed to make it from door to door in just seven hours and in what felt like no time at all, we were enjoying the sunshine in Guernsey.

The early start meant that Callum slept during the journey too. I think it’s the ideal option for a half term break!

We stayed at the Pandora Hotel, and we found it clean and fresh, not to mention in a super location, with just a short walk to the capital of St Peter Port with the beach, restaurants, bars, shops and harbour all in easy reach.

The Pandora Hotel also has some stunning gardens that are ideal to walk through to build up your appetite for breakfast or burn off some calories afterwards.

We’re vegan, but that didn’t prove a problem at all. The hotel couldn’t have been more accommodating. There was dairy free margarine, soya milk and even dairy free cheese waiting for us on our table, and for breakfast we were presented with a tasty fry up that included Fry’s Vegetarian Sausages one day and freshly sliced fruit and veggie bacon with our toast, mushrooms, tomatoes and beans the next.

Around the area, Cornet Castle is a must see and if you pay a visit to the castle, try to catch

the rather loud cannon being set off at 12 noon!

A stunning castle with beautiful views.

We enjoyed the Wild Guernsey walk too – it left us wanting much more. So many wild flowers and what we think of as weeds can be medicinal and edible too. Peter Sausmarez the current owner gave us a tour of the Sausmarez Manor Gardens with sculptures that have come from all over the world. We thoroughly enjoyed out time with Peter who frequently runs ghost tours too. All in all, we thoroughly enjoyed our visit to Guernsey!

Check out VeggieVision TV for more film clips about Guernsey.

Karin Ridgers – www.veggievision.tv Visit Guernsey www.visitguernsey.com – Tel. 01481 723552 Condor Ferries www.condorferries.com - Tel. 01202 207216 Pandora Hotel http://pandorahotel.co.uk - Tel. 01481 720971

www.Inspiredessex.co.uk |

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2012 ISSUE 19 | PAGE 9

Chatty

Inspirational People

Changing the World

Macka B, one of Britain’s most influential dancehall toasters has just launched his new album, Change the World - a dynamic blend of hard hitting conscious lyrics and pulsating reggae music.

Who inspires you?

“I am inspired by many positive people.

Singers, writers, musicians, community workers, speakers, just people who try to make it a better world.

With a career spanning four decades, Macka B unleashes the album on his very own Chinelo Records label. It features such reggae greats as David Hinds (lead singer of Steel Pulse) Luciano, Earl 16 and Lloyd Brown.

“Haile Selassie is a very special person to Rastafari and his words are very inspirational. Also the ancestors give me great strength. Even a little baby can inspire me, they do things that we used be able to do but have lost along the way.”

Karin Ridgers caught up with Macka B for a chat about his influences …and Essex.

“I played in Essex last year at the One Love Festival in Hainault. It went down really well, very good vibe,” What sort of people enjoy your music?

“All kinds of people can enjoy my music especially if they have an open mind and think outside the box. A lot of my songs are social commentary and the people who gravitate towards my lyrics are people who care about things like the environment, humanity, justice.”

What are your main goals?

“To spread a positive message and to uplift as many people as possible.”

Happy Times It’s the kind of question that’s kept philosophers, psychologists and self-help book writers perplexed for centuries. What makes us happy? It won’t come as any great surprise that money, a flash car or a big house won’t make you happy. If you’re of a miserable disposition, those things may give you the luxury of staying miserable in comfort, or even give you a fleeting sense of happiness at first, but if you’re not happy before you’ve got your new car or bank account top up, you won’t stay happy for very long once you’ve got it.

Is happiness in your genes?

Believe it or not, there could be a ‘happy gene’ – but it doesn’t seem to have the same effect on men as it does on women. US researchers said that their discovery of a cheerful gene could explain why women are often happier than men. The study looked at a gene called MAOA that affects the levels of feel-good chemicals in the brain.

The gene comes in two versions, a highly active and a less active type. Almost 350 men and women who gave a saliva sample to test their DNA were asked how happy they were.

Women with the less active type were happier than others, the researchers found – and ladies 10 PAGE |

lucky enough to have two copies of the ‘happy’ type of MAOA were the happiest of all.

Only one in four women didn’t have any happiness genes at all. Although many of the men had the gene too, they didn’t seem to be any happier than those who didn’t, so the gene obviously works on women differently to men. Strange….

Is optimism all it’s cracked up to be?

“Cheer up, it might never happen” – if that little gem irritates you as much as it does me, you might be relieved to know that a sprinkling of pessimism isn’t necessarily a bad thing. In his new book The Antidote, Oliver Burkeman suggests that trying to be happy all the time might actually be making us miserable – and defends the art of negative thinking…

•

Imagine the worst-case scenario

If we hope for, and believe in the best case scenario for everything, we’re setting ourselves up to be horribly disappointed if our hopes and

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2012 ISSUE 19 | www.Inspiredessex.co.uk

Who would you like to perform with and why?

“People with a good message within their music. Because music is such a powerful media and it has the ability to affect people’s lives for good or bad. So the more unified the conscious artists are the better the chance of getting through to the masses and effecting change.”

For more information about Macka B, visit his website at www.mackab.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/pages/MackaB/345237072584 Twitter: https://twitter.com/mackab

plans don’t work out as we’d like. Instead of blind optimism, Oliver says that when faced with a big issue, try imagining, in detail, exactly how badly things could go. It gives you a limit to your worst case scenario, so for example if you’re worrying about your relationship, you can tell yourself that if it does come to an end you’d be very upset, but it wouldn’t mean your life was over.

•

Don’t be obsessed by your goals

If you’re aiming for something big, try not to let it define you. If you’re consumed with the need to get that promotion, lose weight or have the perfect wedding, it’s practically impossible to abandon the goal, even if everything is telling you that it’s not going to happen.

• Trying too hard to feel cheerful can actually make you miserable Do you hate self-help style affirmations as much as I do? Well, they might be bad for you anyway. Repeating positive statements to the mirror to try and convince yourself how amazing, successful or beautiful you are can backfire. It’s much better to remind yourself that you don’t need to meet any particular standards in order to accept yourself. ‘Every day, in every way, I’m getting better and better’ goes one classic affirmation — but maybe you’re not, and that’s fine, too.

FFER O WIN A FREE

Well, you can! Claire is offering one Inspired reader a free session of hypnotherapy. All you need to do is email sarah.clark@inspiredessex.co.uk or go to www.inspiredessex.co.uk by end of October and tell us in less than 100 words why you need a stressbusting hypnotherapy session.

SESSION WITH CLAIRE!

Good luck!

Why Smart People Use Hypnotherapy - By Claire Rich.

So now you know there is ‘no hypnotised feeling’ and that ‘hypnosis is a totally natural state of mind’, I can get down to the serious business of telling you exactly how Hypnotherapy could help you improve your life for the better. As I’ve said before, many people dismiss Hypnotherapy through fear and faulty beliefs but if you’re smart you’ll use it for your benefit to maximise your performance, wellbeing and success. It’s simple really, you just need to get the subconscious and conscious parts of your mind working for you so that you can achieve your goals easily.

Hypnotherapy Maximises the Power of the Mind Over the years Hypnotherapy has helped literally millions of people all around the world identify and overcome barriers to personal and business growth and success. So with the right type of Hypnotherapy there is an excellent chance that it could help you, your children, friends and family.

The key to a successful therapy is that you genuinely want to change and are truly committed and motivated to achieving your goals. Many people want to be rich but don’t want to do a day’s work to earn a penny. Just like there are those who want to lose weight but refuse to eat less, move more and change their unhealthy lifestyle habits for the better.

The truth of the matter is, there is no magic wand or quick fix and anything that we want

to achieve in life takes some time, effort and energy. Action = Results. However, it needn’t be too difficult or painful! When you use the power of your subconscious mind, Hypnotherapy helps you to understand but more importantly change and succeed so you can be the best you can be.

Who Can Benefit Hypnotherapy can help both children and adults, although the type of therapy used will vary for each group, and each individual, provided the Hypnotherapist is highly skilled and experienced in his/her work. The only exceptions are: people who are educationally sub-normal or suffering from senility, very young children (under 7 years old), hard drug-addicts, and anybody under the influence of large amounts of alcohol.

How Can Hypnotherapy Help This totally safe, natural, drug-free therapy can effectively treat many symptoms and problems to help you achieve your goals easily. Just some of the areas we can work on are: • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Personal Matters.

Emotional and Psychological Difficulties.

Stress, Anxiety and Panic Attacks.

Feeling Low, Unhappy, Tired all the Time.

Lack of Motivation.

Goal Achievement.

Fears and Phobias.

Confidence Building Performance Enhancement.

Sporting Improvement.

Habit Control.

Weight Control.

Sleeping Difficulties.

Relationship Problems.

www.Inspiredessex.co.uk |

• • • •

Psychosexual Problems.

Anger Management.

Guilt.

Some types of depression and much, much more...

You don’t even have to have a problem to benefit from Hypnotherapy because relaxing, de-stressing, and increasing confidence are things that nobody can ever have enough of regardless of who they are.

So you see there really is no need to feel frustrated, negative and overwhelmed when it feels like things are holding you back. Call me now on (01245) 444105 to book your ‘Free Initial Consultation’ and find out how I could help you find the way to a richer life.

Visit: www.clairerich-therapy.co.uk www.thewaytoaricherlife.com for more information.

Until next time, take care and remember, rather than just thinking about what you want to achieve, take action and actually do it. Smart people understand that deciding to get a little expert help is a sign of great intelligence and strength. So you see the future is truly in your hands and the way to a richer life is just a phone call away! Claire.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2012 ISSUE 19 | PAGE 11

Health, Beauty & Wellbeing

RED

INSPI

How would you like to feel more positive, calm and confident, get a good night’s sleep, and have a feeling of well-being that lasts for a good while?

Health, Beauty & Wellbeing

Exercise for an easier pregnancy – by Carly Humphreys-Surry

In the past, expectant mothers were often put off doing any physical activity during pregnancy, but these days the guidance has changed. Alongside a growing body of scientific research, anecdotal reports by many active pregnant women indicate that an appropriate programme of exercise is not only safe during pregnancy, but can also be beneficial too.

One study even found that exercising women had an active labour which was 30% shorter than non-exercising women. (University of Iowa College of Medicine) Subject to screening of the individual & assuming there are no special conditions to consider, the benefits of Pre-Natal exercise include; • PREVENTION / REDUCTION of back pain, leg cramps, nausea, excessive weight gain, fatigue, varicose veins, hypertension, depression, muscle imbalances, gestational diabetes & diastasis recti.

• INCREASED / IMPROVED posture, strength, cardio vascular fitness, energy levels, circulation, relaxation, mental wellbeing, core strength & recovery time (post birth.)

There are obviously risks & considerations with every trimester, as the baby develops & the woman’s body changes to accommodate the pregnancy. That is why it is important that expectant mums look for a fitness professional / personal trainer who specialises in this area as they will be able to tailor a specific programme for every step of the gestation period, including Post-Natal exercise.

Inspired by Carly will be offering Pre & Post-Natal 1-to-1 exercise sessions from January 2013. Register your interest via my Contacts Form via my website below.

Carly (Personal Trainer – Inspired by Carly) Follow me on Twitter - @CarlyHS_yourPT www.inspiredbycarly.co.uk

Please don’t stop the music…

He says: “One of the key objectives in terms of creating a legacy following the Olympics was to get the nation active, but getting started and staying motivated can be a challenge.

Are you still feeling inspired by the Olympics?

Hold that feeling and maximise it by adding in the right mix of music to exercise to. Music with the right beat could hold the key to running efficiently and keeping you going for longer, according to a leading sports psychologist.

Professor Andy Lane, from the University of Wolverhampton, explains that music can trick your mind into feeling less tired during a workout, especially repetitive movement exercises such as running.

His research into the effects of music can be found on the Livewell section of the NHS website, along with his tips and other advice on healthy living.

12 PAGE |

“Research suggests that listening to music while exercising can reduce perceptions of effort and fatigue by up to 12 per cent. If you’re listening to music while running, it can distract you from the actual effort of running – you are listening to the beat of a song rather than thump coming from your heartbeat.

“What’s more, research suggests that if you keep in step with the music, your stride will be more rhythmical and therefore more efficient.

Tests on walkers found that walking in time to a musical beat improved endurance by 15 per cent.”

All music has a beats per minute (bpm) – for example Rihanna’s Don’t Stop the Music has 123bpm. Most people find 150bpm a gentle pace and by 190bpm they are running as hard as they can.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2012 ISSUE 19 | www.Inspiredessex.co.uk

Professor Lane, from the University’s School of Sport Performing Arts and Leisure, also says that if you’re making a playlist for your workout, you should also make sure that it fits the type of workout you’re planning to do.

“If you want to go for an easy run, select music with a lower bpm such as Search for the Hero

by M People (100bpm).

“If you’re feeling more energetic, choose songs with a higher bpm, such as I See You Baby

by Groove Armada (128bpm). Whatever you choose, make sure it’s music you enjoy listening to,” he adds.

“Music can help you get into exercise mode.

Have a few motivational songs at the start of your playlist that you can play as you’re getting ready. The simple act of pressing ‘play’ flicks a switch in your mind to signal that your session has begun and in a short time you will be out of the door.”

Professor Lane’s tips appear on the NHS website: www.nhs.uk/Livewell

Health, Beauty & Wellbeing

Become a Winter Warrior – By Idit Shweitzer Ginsberg and Ronit Gerber Winter is on its way but it hasn’t even arrived yet and so many people have already started feeling run down and low on energy - a clear indication that their immune systems are not functioning at their best which makes them far more susceptible to catching sore thoughts, colds and other bugs.

So, what can be done to boost our energy levels and improve our immune system that doesn’t involve jabs, meds and visits to the doctor?

MASTERING YOUR MIND-SET The first step to staying healthy this winter is to reframe how you see winter - you need to embrace it! Banish the dread that comes when thinking about the grey, dark winter days and instead try and see the wonder of winter; the sparkle of icy dew on the leaves, the stunning cobwebs frozen like nets on hedges, the crisp air. Setting the scene for winter can help too, getting your fire place and snugly blanket ready and making plans to chill-out with friends ensures you have something to look forward to.

By making this mental shift you will help your body gear-up towards winter rather than shut down and give up.

BODY BOOSTING The next step to cold-proofing for winter is to give your immune system an extra boost as it prepares to deal with the extreme changes in temperature and other winter factors. There is so much you can do to enhance your body’s immunity but diet, exercise and immune boosting treatments are the top areas to focus on.

1) Eating energy boosting food and including super foods like pomegranate, blueberries and coriander in your diet will give your body the nourishment it needs to fight fit. Replacing coffee with green teas and maintaining your water intake will ensure you body flushes out unwanted toxins and taking supplements to increase your vitamin D intake will give your body the ‘summer’ vitamins it needs if you are affected by SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder).

2) Exercise is another key ingredient to stimulate your feel good hormones (endorphins and adrenaline) and will help you feel more energised and positive. If exercise isn’t your thing try the “Couch to 5k challenge” which gives you a gentle introduction to getting your body moving. Start off with a minute of exercise a day and gradually build it up.

3) Complementary Therapies are the perfect way to stimulate your immune system and, what’s more, they help you relax and distress and provide a host of other benefits too. Treating yourself to a full body massage will encourage better circulation, relax your muscles and

ease any winter aches and pains you might be feeling. Reflexology is an excellent way to boost your immunity as it restores your body’s natural ability to fight infection and eliminate toxins. Osteopathy can improve nerve transmissions and enhance immunity by loosening congestion of lymph nodes and increasing the movement of the body’s natural antibodies.

Acupuncture offers a tailor-made treatment for winter – Seasonal Adjustment Acupuncture – which is an effective preventative treatment if you are prone to colds, depression and body aches as the seasons change. The list is endless, magnetic therapy, homeopathy, Bach Flower Remedies, Buyteko Breathing... there are so many options.

To tap into a range of health and wellbeing products, services, talks and workshops or to try some new exercise classes and experience these treatments for yourself you might want to visit The Gateway2Wellbeing exhibition which is taking place on Sunday, 18th November at The Holiday Inn Elstree. This show has been created to offer you an opportunity to speak to professionals and try out new things to discover what works best for you.

With a positive mind set and taking action to boost your body this winter you will be well and truly cold-proofed and ready to triumph and get through the winter blues. www.gateway2wellbeing.co.uk

Keeping the cold at bay!

Now that the winter is well and truly here (did it ever go away?), it’s time we thought about preventing all those cold and flu viruses taking hold.

So we’ll all need to top up our Vitamin C intake – think oranges, kiwi fruit, chillies, broccoli and dark leafy greens like kale – but if you can’t stomach eating all that each day check out LifePlan Vitamin C supplements. Great high dose Vitamin C to beat off colds and flu and keep you all in tip top health.

Did You Know?

Fruit and vegetables today have 30% LESS Vitamin C than they did 30 years ago due to farming and processing techniques. This means

it’s even more important to top up your Vitamin C intake to stay healthy and strong!

And, recent research also showed that combining Vitamin C and Echinacea can reduce the length and severity of a cold. This natural herb has been used for centuries to help promote good health and vastly improve the body’s immune system against the common cold virus!

Now don’t forget... prevention is the cure, so let’s protect ourselves and have a happy healthy winter!

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2012 ISSUE 19 | PAGE 13

Health, Beauty & Wellbeing

Brightening Up Maybe it’s a reaction to the dull summer, or just the antidote to the relentless grey-days of the recession, but colour is making a comeback on the catwalk, and bright eyes are where it’s at if you want to make a bold fashion statement.

Get it right with striking cobalt, emerald, magenta and even hard-to-wear red if you dare; all the colours of the rainbow featured heavily on the catwalks at Donna Karen, Anna Sui, and Dries Van Noten.

Peacock blue shadows combined with a sweep of winged black eyeliner, deep browns mixed with moss greens and pearly whites blended with sparkles of silver ensure that eyes get well and truly noticed this autumn.

Clarins Mineral Eyeshadows Smoothing and Long-Lasting, £16 (www.clarins.co.uk) fits the full-colour bill perfectly, and Vibrant Violet is the perfect way to recreate some catwalk drama.

If you’re looking for a more intense burst of colour, apply it wet.

If you want to try your luck at carrying off the peacock look, worn with such aplomb at Prabal Gurung, rush out and grab yourself the gorgeous MAC Eye shadow in Freshwater, £12 (www.maccosmetics.co.uk) and apply it to the inside inner corners of your eye for a highlighted effect.

Highly pigmented shades work best when you’re trying to create a bold, bright impression. Try the NARS High Society Trio Eyeshadow, £33 (www.narscosmetics.co.uk) for starters, where you’ll find beautiful purple and green shadows.

To intensify the colours, apply them over cream eyeshadow in a complementary colour. A good one to use as a base for long-lasting colour is the Bobbi Brown Long Wear Cream Eyeshadow, £18 (www.bobbibrown.co.uk).

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Health, Beauty & Wellbeing

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www.Inspiredessex.co.uk |

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2012 ISSUE 19 | PAGE 15

Ladies Fashion

Vintage Bride – by Hayley Knott

THE DREAM - Since I was a little girl I have always dreamed about my wedding, there are countless photos of me dressed up from the fancy dress box with veils and petticoats dancing around like a princess. That is what girls do. We dream with an unlimited budget and ferocious imagination. The common ideal is to mirror the childhood idols of the story book princesses and marry your knight in shining armour in a grand old castle.

Unfortunately when reality hits and you finally grow up, you find out that whatever the likes of Jessie J might say, everything has a price tag, and it does matter! Compromises have to be made. However, I was adamant that I would match my reality as close to my dream as possible.

THE FINER DETAIL – Organising a wedding is not a walk in the park.

I underestimated how much there is to do!

One of the best things I found that helped was going to wedding fairs, you get a chance to see hundreds of ideas and get loads of inspiration. I would suggest taking along someone who can rein you in and steer you away from everything that sparkles.

It was at a wedding fair that I met my florist Megan, from The Willows Flowers. She has such a creative flair and showed me endless examples of vintage inspired arrangements. I also fell in love with the vintage lace accessories by Charlotte at Rags Ribbons and Riches.

Have a shop around and do your homework because there are so many talented artisans to make your day magical!

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very popular at the moment and there are plenty of suppliers creating beautiful wedding decorations, flowers and accessories. There was so much choice. The first thing I wanted to make sure was that I picked the right setting, so I looked high and low. It seemed I sent off for every wedding brochure going. We decided on Greenwoods Hotel which is a stunning 17th century manor house with a beautiful outside gazebo licensed for weddings. It has a wonderful grand staircase and loads of original features that the photographer just loved!

Suppliers Featured: Venue - Greenwoods Hotel Spa and Retreat, www.greenwoodshotel.co.uk Photography – Vanda Ralevska, www.imagesinfocus.co.uk Flowers – Megan, The Willows Flowers, www.thewillowsflowers.co.uk Jewellery – Charlotte, http://www.facebook.com/RagsRibbonsAndRiches

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2012 ISSUE 19 | PAGE 17

Ladies Fashion

VINTAGE VENUE - Vintage is

Ladies Fashion

Let the Rain Reign 1 We should be used to the pitter-patter of raindrops by now, as we spent most of our Great British Summer trying to second guess whether we needed sunnies or a brolly in our handbags before we left the house.

By November, we’re usually resigned to the fact that we’re going to get wet at some point, so it pays to be ready for all eventualities, and prepare for the oncoming downpours with stylish accessories and warm, cosy coats that will make us want to sing in the rain rather than bemoan the fact that rainy days and Mondays always get us down.

Sick of running from the rain with only your hand to save your hair? Pick a gorgeous brolly that you don’t mind showing off, match it with a coat you love and if it’s really throwing it down, indulge your inner child and stomp in some puddles with a pair of brightly coloured wellies to protect you from wet feet.

Rain doesn’t have to mean you feel and look as grey as the skies…get out in all weathers and stick it to the English climate!

2 3

4

5

1 Starting at the bottom, these pink and white spotted wellies are fabulous! Hand painted and presented in a luxurious gift box, they are too good to give away so you’ll probably end up keeping them for yourself. www.giftwrappedandgorgeous.co.uk Price: £20.99

2 These funky chicken wellies can cheer up any miserable day. Comfy, cosy and cotton lined they have an adjustable side strap and gusset for an improved fit too. Price: £32 www.ilikechickens.co.uk

5 You’ll have to wait for the next shower to show off the elegant ‘Random Acts’ umbrella, designed to be on show. With a vintage spring-like pattern and the wording “try a million random acts of kindness”, you’ll be waiting hopefully for the next downpour. Price: £37.50 www.lilyandlime.co.uk

3 When it rains, it pours! Wedge Welly have given the traditional welly a makeover – no more boring, flat wellies for girls, as these beauties have a 2 ½ inch wedge. Price: £39.95 - www.prezzybox.com 4 Add a splash of colour to the grey skies with a bright brolly from Barley Sugar. The beautiful electric pattern will cheer up any rainy day and it’s wide enough when it’s open for two, so perfect for those romantic rainy day walks. Price: £36.95 www.barley-sugar.co.uk

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M&S Pony Coat £110

6

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Ladies Fashion

Limited Collection Coat £89, Twiggy for M&S Woman Dress £49.50, Necklace £17.50 Ring £7.50, Belt £15, Boots £59

5

Rainy days don’t have to be grey and dull if you dress them up with a great coat. Be prepared for unpredictable weather with cover up coats that add a splash of colour and a dash of individual style to any drizzly day.

M&S are always good for the necessaries, and outerwear is no exception. Get yourself fully covered up with the sophisticated Pony Coat, which will see you through the winter in style, or the super-snuggly Limited Collection Coat.

5 You don’t need a downpour to want to get out and show off this absolute gem of a coat. The vibrant Queenie Coat comes in pillar box red and a more subtle but still stylish navy and has a gorgeous luxe animal print collar to snuggle into when the driving rain gets a bit horizontal - £165 from Eucalyptus www.eucalyptusclothing.co.uk 6 This fabulous Avoca parka mac comes in putty pink and vetiver green and is spot on for a bit of rainy day relief. Price £110 from www.barley-sugar.co.uk.

Warehouse Stud Detail coat £120

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2012 ISSUE 19 | PAGE 19

Ladies Fashion

Perfect party pieces for autumn The party season is just around the corner so make sure you’re ready! There are some exciting trends arriving in the shops that are perfect for parties and Angela Poplett, Lakeside’s Personal Shopper, is here to guide you through them.

“This season feels very decadent on the whole.

Fashion has moved on from sombre and minimalist and become all about rich colours, texture and full on glamour.

“The first party trend that will be big this season is black and gold. Its decadent but its also simple to achieve and suitable for absolutely any age. Don’t be afraid to go really OTT with the gold and make sure it’s part of the outfit, not just added on with accessories.

“For older ladies, there’s a black jacket in Monsoon with stunning gold embellishment that will transform any outfit into a party outfit!

Wallis also has a beautiful bodycon dress with gold detail across the front that’s sure to be a hit. For a younger look, Miss Selfridge has lots of on-trend pieces that you can have plenty of fun pairing them together.

“The second party trend we’re seeing in the shops this season is a mixture of brocade and velvet. This is a good option if you’re not keen on dresses and prefer to work your separates.

If you’re looking for deep blue and other strong colours, check out the brocade trousers in Zara, or for paler colours (cream, gold and coral), H&M has some lovely trousers and skirts. These separates also make it a piece of cake to go from a daytime to a party look.

“The third trend is leather and black-on-black.

You can ease yourself into this one by picking basic items with just a leather trim or you can go for it with full on leather skirts (there’s a great soft A-line one in Oasis), trousers and dresses.

If you can afford to, invest in real leather pieces rather than PVC as this trend keeps returning every few years and you’re sure to get your money’s worth.

“For a party look, keep it simple. Pair leather items with statement pieces of jewellery and wear boots rather than heels to keep it modern.

If you’re still not sure, buy a magazine and get inspired!

Accessorize

Monsoon Peacock Embellished Jacked

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2012 ISSUE 19 | www.Inspiredessex.co.uk

Next Lace Dress

“Finally, don’t be afraid of sequins and beading this season. Partywear is your chance to really sparkle so make the most of it and go all out.

New Look has some great sequin covered dresses that are perfect if you want to make an impression – and they’re really affordable too!

“If you’ve got a bit more to spend and you’re looking for an investment piece, All Saints has a high waisted skirt in store that’s covered in exquisite embellishment from top to bottom.

It’ll look great with a simple top and you can be confident that once you’ve enjoyed wearing it yourself, you’ll easily be able to sell it on.”

Lakeside is open from 10am - 10pm weekdays, 9am – 9pm Saturday and 11am – 5pm Sunday.

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2012 ISSUE 19 | PAGE 21

Ladies Fashion

Autumn FASHION

Gentleman’s Den

Bang & Olufsen BeoSound 8

Think of a room, any room. A bedroom, guest room, or open-plan kitchen? In a summerhouse, chic apartment, or family home? Now just add BeoSound 8 to fill up your room with Bang & Olufsen sound and style. If you keep your music on an iPad, iPhone, iPod or computer, you are all set to discover the iconic style and breathtaking sound quality that has made Bang & Olufsen one of the most sought-after names in home audio.

Move BeoSound 8 from room to room or hang it on a wall. All you need is a power outlet, your music player of choice, and a desire for real

sound quality. Secure your iPad, iPhone, or iPod firmly in the adjustable holder and prepare for a surprise. The sleek speaker design gives little clue about the fidelity and depth of the sound that is about to come your way. The conical shape of the speakers on BeoSound 8 has two functions. Design-wise, the shapes ‘disappear’ to create an unobtrusive impression from most viewing angles and make placement easier. In terms of audio quality, they eliminate standing waves by avoiding parallel surfaces. It may sound very technical, but you’ll find that the proof is in the experience.

www.iwantoneofthose.com | £12.99 22 PAGE |

To match your personal taste and the room you place it in, BeoSound 8 comes in either black or white with aluminium details and matching power cord. When you feel the need to add a splash of colour to the room, the list of options includes six fabric speaker covers in yellow, orange, red, silver, black and white.

Avalible from www.iwantoneofthose.com £549.99

Retro Telephone Shaped Hand Shower

Perfect for those who can’t stay off the phone for too long, now you can take it to the bathroom with you! The Retro Telephone Shaped Hand Shower works as a standard shower head with a universal fitting, but it will be a sight to behold especially with water spraying out. The telephone is the perfect shape to act as a shower head and transforms an everyday item into a fun, slightly wacky, but definitely unique, “talking” point!

Playing music from your own phone, computer, or media player gives you the advantage of a familiar navigation environment. In addition, you can now download an app version of the sleek and stylish BeoPlayer for your docked iPad, iPhone, or iPod. You can also adjust sound levels and skip tracks quickly and conveniently on BeoSound 8 itself. Music on a docked or USB linked device can be controlled via the dedicated round remote control or of course your existing Beo4 or Beo6 remote controls if you already own other Bang & Olufsen equipment.

What mood are you in?

This Mood Mug features the face on the side to show everyone how feels. Made of high quality porcelain, there’s no need for a handle as the double wall insulation keeps your drink warm, while the outside of the mug stays cool enough to hold. If you’ve partied a bit too hard the night before or are having a great day, then this is the mug for you.

Beautifully designed, hand made and complete these mugs will perfectly reflect your mood.

Horribly Hungover (1st from left) and Cheeky Chappie (4th from left) are the new additions to the Mood Mugs range. www.iwantoneofthose.com | £12.99

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2012 ISSUE 19 | www.Inspiredessex.co.uk

Gentleman’s Den

Movember!

During November everything gets a furry makeover as the imaginary upper lips of mugs, towels and even baby mobiles grow a moustache. It’s all in the name of Movember which aims to raise vital funds and awareness for men’s health, specifically prostate cancer and testicular cancer.

One Must Dash Framed Print Price £35 www.mydeco.com

On the first of November all the “Mo Bros” up and down the country will begin with a clean shaven face and for the rest of the month will grow and groom their finest of facial hair. But if you’re follically-challenged or just don’t ‘do’ a moustache, fear not as you can nab yourself anything from a moustache straw to a doormat to show your support.

Jäll & Tofta Mr Moustache Baby Mobile - Price £24.95

Let’s grow and groom.

www.themodernbaby.co.uk

http://uk.movember.com/ Moustache shaped paper clips Price: £3 for 5 www.oliverbonas.com Moustache Printed Cushion Price: £22 www.wowthankyou.co.uk Moustache Mug Price £14 www.rume.co.uk Handlebar Corkscrew & Bottle Opener - Price £7.95 www.hunkydoryhome.co.uk

Funky Moustache Drinking Straws - Price £2.99 www. tch.net

Best way to Shave that Movember When you get to the end of the month you will need a good shave. But a good shave starts before you actually shave. The area you’re going to shave needs to be clean and thoroughly wet before you begin. That means washing the area with a gentle soap and lots of warm water. Be sure to use a product made for the face, even if you’re shaving somewhere else. Body bars and deodorant soaps strip off the skin’s natural oil, drying out the skin too much for shaving purposes.

There are a wide variety of facial cleaning products, some specifically marketed as pre-shave cleansers. For example, Gillette offers several products such as their Thermal Face Scrub, and Neutrogena has their Razor Defense Face Scrub and the Anthony Logistics Glycolic Facial Cleanser.

Another idea you can try is to use a little of the shaving cream or soap you’re about to shave with as cleanser as well. Just work up a soft lather onto your face then hold a warm, wet (but not dripping wet) flannel to your face for a couple minutes, wipe it off then lather as usual.

Your partner will love to have you back - Happy Movember gents. credit to: www.apetogentleman.com

Be sure to be generous with rinsing: warm water will soften the skin and stubble allowing for a closer, more comfortable shave, but it takes time - up to three minutes to properly prepare the skin for shaving. Adding a preshave oil can act as an insurance policy for more lubrication, but nothing can really take the place of clean, wet skin to start.

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2012 ISSUE 19 | PAGE 23

Gentleman’s Den

Better skin in Winter..

For me, the first sign that winter is approaching isn’t chunky knitwear, or the Christmas gifts appearing in high street stores in September!

It’s my face that starts to look and feel in bad condition. It starts with dryness on exposed areas like my hands and my face. I have had a little help to fend off the cold with a late holiday, but last week my skin started to tell me the cold is here to stay!

Every year as the temperatures drop the condition of our skin can also deteriorate, and this isn’t just a problem for those with dry or sensitive skin types, it can affect everyone.

Luckily there are some great products will help combat dry, tight and uncomfortable winter skin.

Why Do The Winter Conditions Affect Our Skin?

The first and most obvious one is the weather.

As we’re subjected to wind, rain and the colder temperatures at this time of year, it starts to show dryness on our face. I get small areas of flaky skin. Not nice I know.

While you might not think it, central heating also has a big effect on the condition of your skin at this time of year. When the temperatures drop we all like to keep our homes toasty, but this can actually have an adverse effect on our skin. With our central heating systems on full blast, our skin becomes really dehydrated.

Again, another cause of battered winter skin is excessive hot water. There’s always a temptation to whack the shower up to near scalding temperatures in an attempt to warm up, but you’re actually doing your skin more harm than good. The above average water temperatures will to leave your skin dry and tight.

It gets worse. Over half of the 1000 men that were surveyed asked the women in their lives to choose what they were going to wear every day, and if they’ve been brave enough to choose their own, over half of men still get their partner or mum to approve their outfit before they leave the house.

Steven Buchan, menswear stylist, said: “It appears the nation’s men don’t enjoy hitting the high street to get a fashion update, sending their partners or mums to tackle the big queues and unhelpful staff. The nation definitely knows what they don’t like and socks teamed with sandals scores top the list, closely followed by the ghastly tummy overhang and the major office no, white socks with a black suit and shoes.”

The Jacamo study also found that when guys are left to tango with their wardrobe one in six don’t care about how they look, while a quarter spend 20 minutes deliberating their fashion choices. An indecisive one in twenty takes over an hour trying to decide what they’re going to wear that day.

Along with men’s shopping habits, the research also revealed the nation’s worst crimes against fashion.

24 PAGE |

Switch To A Rich, Protecting Moisturiser All the factors above contribute to the skin on our faces becoming dry, tight and uncomfortable at this time of year. So, just as you would protect your skin while exposed to the sun, it’s vital to protect it during the winter months too.

If you take a trip to Boots, you’ll find a great range of heavier and more protective moisturisers designed to relieve the dry, tight feeling that creeps in at this time of year. Using a good moisturiser will really help to banish dryness, irritation and redness.

Compounding this problem is the often drastic change in temperatures our skin have to cope with. These sharp changes cause our skin to become even more dehydrated and prone to redness.

Badly Drawn Dressed boy

Do you let your partner buy your clothes?

According to research by men’s fashion brand Jacamo, a quarter of men do just that - and and one in twenty ask their mum to find them something to wear!

So what can you do?

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2012 ISSUE 19 | www.Inspiredessex.co.uk

The top 20 men’s fashion faux pas in order: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.

13.

14.

15.

16.

17.

18.

19.

20.

Socks worn with sandals Tummy hanging over a waistband White socks worn with a dark suit and dark shoes G-string beachwear Low slung jeans Bum bags Builder’s bum Football shirts worn outside of the stadium Sunglasses worn at night Shirts open to the navel Wearing sarongs (even David Beckham looked a plum in a sarong) Leather trousers Hats with ears Novelty T-shirts Waistcoats and T-shirt combination Ear muffs Wearing shorts in the office Vests Worn underwear Filthy footwear

Recognise yourself in any of these, lads? www.jacamo.co.uk

With all the hype and excitement over the new season women’s wear collections, menswear is all too often side lined - or indeed forgotten about altogether. That’s not what we’re about here at Inspired though – we like to think of ourselves as a fully inclusive publication! So in the interests of equality, here’s our quick-fire round up of the pre-Christmas menswear trends to watch out for.

From cool, edgy street wear and sporty styles to classic preppy essentials, there’s a trend for it.

Balenciaga Florabotanica The luxurious new fragrance from the House of Balenciaga is Florabotanica. A perfume with a fragrance as astonishing as its design, a total sensory experience! £53 - 50ml

LADY GAGA FAME LADY GAGA FAME is a bit different, not unlike the lady herself. The black Eau de Parfum sprays clear and becomes invisible once it’s airborne. Gaga collaborated with fashion industry legends to create the scent - the bottle was designed in collaboration with Nick Knight, and the ad campaign was directed and photographed by Steven Klein. The scent is built around the ideas of darkness, sensuality and light, which means it’s a fruity and floral fusion, levelled out with the dark influence of Belladonna. £55.00, 100ml

Joop Homme WILD Joop Homme WILD is an oriental fougère fragrance built around a strong heart note of absolute rum. Seldom used in perfumery, it

gives the fragrance a dark and luminous quality along with woody blond tobacco which brings warmth and top notes of pink pepper which add a dynamic and masculine touch. £39 - 75ml

DKNY Eau So Intense Collection DKNY scents are well known for being fresh and fruity, like the iconic apple scents. To celebrate the fruity fragrances, DKNY has introduced the Delicious Eau So Intense Collection, which is a collection of intensified versions of three coveted fragrances to give devoted fans even more of what they love. £48 – 50ml

All avalible at www.debenhams.com

Menace Male Grooming Experience By Levent Yildizgoren Menace male grooming is a salon just for men, owned and run by Matthew Norris and his team.

Matt’s journey has been very interesting.

Matt is a graphic design and photography graduate, who worked in the City as an investment banker for years but then completely changed direction. He now puts all of his considerable passion and energy into Menace Male Grooming.

It’s definitely the customer service experience that impressed me the most. Well, and the back, neck head message and facial I received, not forgetting the cut-throat shave…

At Menace the service is delivered without any rush and taking care of every detail.

Menace Male Grooming also gives advice to teenagers about how to shave and how to deal with acne.

the concept and I am thrilled to now be compared to salons across the country and own the best male grooming salon in the UK!” The salon was voted the Best Male Grooming Salon in the UK 2011 and Matt was also named the Essex Young Entrepreneur of the Year 2010.

The salon is even a regular backdrop for ITV2 hit ‘The Only Way is Essex’, and recently styled the headlining acts at V Festival 2012.

Treatments on offer include Cut-Throat Shaves, Facials, Massage, Sports Massage, Indian Head Massage, Hot Stones Massage, Waxing, Botox, Ear Candles, non chemical skin peels, “Male grooming salons have been popular Maintenance Manicures and Pedicures. in London for years and the male grooming They even offer ear and nostril hair removal. industry has been growing steadily, but I still Haircuts are on offer too for both men knew it was a risk opening the first one in Essex. However, men in Essex have embraced and boys.

MENACE was the first ever male only salon in Essex. Matt Norris says;

www.Inspiredessex.co.uk |

I would certainly go back to the Menace for more. I experienced their ‘Massage, facial and shave’ package and it was amazing. It took 1 hour 45 minutes, and by the time it was finished I felt revitalised, energised and not ashamed to say pampered too.

MENACE Gift Vouchers can be purchased for any of their treatments, or any amount.

A traditional Cut-Throat Shave (£24) is a great little treat, as is a Back, Neck & Shoulder Massage (£30). Or give that special man in your life the ultimate pamper with the Massage, Facial & Shave (£80).

For those stressed out men, the Stress Therapy package would be an ideal gift solution. A haircut is just £17. www.menacegrooming.co.uk NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2012 ISSUE 19 | PAGE 25

Gentleman’s Den

Smells Good

Gentleman’s Den

Winter Style Guide With all the hype and excitement over the new season women’s wear collections, menswear is all too often side lined - or indeed forgotten about altogether. That’s not what we’re about here at Inspired though – we like to think of ourselves as a fully inclusive publication! So in the interests of equality, here’s our quick-fire round up of the pre-Christmas menswear trends to watch out for.

From cool, edgy street wear and sporty styles to classic preppy essentials, there’s a trend for it.

Get the Label Get The Label is all about the kind of modern, classic street wear that never goes out of style - think polo shirts, hoodies, chinos, jeans and t-shirts. With its selection of great labels such as Lacoste, Penguin, Criminal Damage and Voi Jeans, Get the Label is the go-to for avoiding one-season-wonder trends, instead creating a look that is effortlessly cool. www.getthelabel.com

G-Star Raw Footwear G-Star Raw Footwear is all about wardrobe essentials with an edge - think hi-top and low-top sneakers, as well as classic desert boots and brogues. Its edgy but classic sportswear-inspired aesthetic has made G-Star Raw Footwear an urban street wear essential. http://shop.g-star.com

weekend offender prison tshirt £12.99 Get the Label

Lacoste logo hoody £59.99 from Get the label

Duck & Cover Men’s Barlow Crew Neck Sweatshirt. Ribbed neck, cuffs & hem, pocket to chest with Duck & Cover tab logo, patch detail to shoulders. 100% Cotton. Machine Washable. £34.99 Get the Label

Urbanly Urbanly specialises in the urban street wear obsession du jour - the graphic t-shirt. Skulls and planets sporting the brand’s logo are emblazoned on classic black and white tees, for a minimalist effect with a strikingly individual, understated impact that sets the brand apart from the herd. www.urbanly.com

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Penguin Mens Hawktree Hi Top Pump. Lace up, embroided & rubbersised logo to heel, printed logo to tongue, textured sole.

Textile Upper & Inner, Synthetic Sole. £24.99 Get the Label

Gentleman’s Den Next Knit blazer £48, Chinos £25 Shirt £30 Sunglasses £13

Next Satchel £35

Next Quilted sweater £32 Watch £25

Next Next has seriously upped its fashion game with its AW12 menswear collection, which features vintage-style bags in distressed brown leather, chinos in autumnal colour palettes and country heritage-inspired tweed aplenty.

These trend-inspired items add an edge to the rest of the classically stylish collection.

River Island River Island has something to please every style this season with its mix of vintage-inspired chunky knitwear and statement shirts, with sharp blazers and sporty bomber jackets drawing the collection together. Classic pea coats and mod-inspired neckerchiefs add a fashion-conscious dimension to proceedings.

River Island

www.Inspiredessex.co.uk | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2012 ISSUE 19 | PAGE 27

Gentleman’s Den River Island

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Cinema

YK

What to look out for at the ODEON this month...

Love Bite

People Like Us

My Brother The Devil

Genre: Horror UK Release Date: 9/11/2012 Directed by: Andy De Emmony

Genre: Drama UK Release Date: 9/11/2012 Directed by: Alex Kurtzman

Genre: Drama UK Release Date: 9/11/2012 Directed by: Sally El Hosaini

Who’s in it? Jessica Szohr, Timothy Spall, Luke Pasqualino

Who’s in it? Chris Pine, Elizabeth Banks, Michelle Pfeiffer

Who’s in it? James Floyd, Fady Elsayed, Saïd Taghmaoui

What’s the plot? From director Andy De Emmony (‘West Is West’), Brit comedy horror ‘Love Bite’ follows a group of friends in dreary seaside resort as they enter another seemingly blissful summer doing what teenagers do best.

What’s the plot? Inspired by real events, comedy drama ‘People Like Us’ tells the tale of a selfish, smooth-talking salesman whose world begins to collapse around him. When his father dies and he discovers a 30-year sister he never knew he had, he realises what’s truly important in life as he carries out his dad’s last wishes.

What’s the plot? Urban drama ‘My Brother The Devil’ looks at life on the streets of inner city London from the perspectives of two Arab brothers struggling to reconcile their traditional Egyptian upbringing with the violent world of drugs and gangs on their doorstep.

However, the arrival of a werewolf in town gives their romantic endeavours a new sense of urgency when they realise that the beast only has a taste for the flesh of virgins.

‘People Like Us’ stars Chris Pine (‘Star Trek’), Elizabeth Banks (‘The Hunger Games’) and Michelle Pfeiffer (‘Batman Returns’).

A gritty and uncompromising look at cultures clashing in the UK’s capital city, ‘My Brother the Devil’ is the debit feature from Egyptian Welsh director Sally El Hosaini.

‘Love Bite’ stars Gossip Girl’s Jessica Szohr and Timothy Spall (‘Harry Potter’).

Mental (35mm)

Gambit

* Genre: Comedy * UK Release Date: 16/11/2012 * Directed by: P.J. Hogan

Genre: Comedy UK Release Date: 21/11/2012 Directed by: Michael Hoffman

Who’s in it? Liev Schreiber, Toni Collette, Anthony LaPaglia

Who’s in it? Colin Firth, Cameron Diaz, Alan Rickman

What’s the plot? Comedy ‘Mental’ tells the tale of the ultimate dysfunctional family comprising five misfit sisters and a mother driven to insanity by the antics of her unfaithful politician husband. But when a feisty stranger arrives on the scene to become the household nanny, will things go from mad to worse?

What’s the plot? In crime comedy ‘Gambit’, Colin Firth portrays an art expert who hatches a plan to fool a billionaire collector into buying a newly-discovered Monet painting that went missing during WW2.

From the Director of Muriel’s Wedding, ‘Mental’ stars Liev Schreiber (Salt) and Toni Collette (Little Miss Sunshine).

Recruiting a brash Texas rodeo queen to help convince his mark that the fake painting has a credible heritage, his elaborate con becomes a work of art in its own right.

The stellar cast of ‘Gambit’ also includes Sir Tom Courtenay, Stanley Tucci and veteran comedienne Cloris Leachman.

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Junior

Schuh Kids comes to Lakeside Looking for kids shoes that won’t make them turn their noses up, or deliberately scuff them on the playground?

Look no further than Lakeside, where on-trend fashion shoe shop Schuh is pioneering a new concept targeted solely at children. Schuh Kids, a kids’ footwear spinoff to the company’s adult Schuh stores, launched into lakeside in October, stocking some kid-friendly mini versions of Schuh’s adult ranges.

The 2,101 sq ft Lakeside store is on lower level mall close to House of Fraser, La Senza and Dorothy Perkins, and is bound to be incredibly popular with children looking for shoes that will get them admiring glances at parties and out to play.

Lunchtime Love The award winning children’s tableware brand, TUMTUM are convinced that their cute new lunch time solution, the Lunch Set will encourage even fussiest of tot to look forward to lunchtime.

The new lunch set features the much loved TUMTUM characters in an innovative container that can be divided by a removable pot. The two separate compartments will help parents offer their children variety and a healthy balanced diet, for example one compartment could hold a sandwich, the other a salad and the pot could have some coleslaw or grapes in.

Thanks to the high demand for their kids tableware collection, the new lunch set is sure to be a hit. It’s been designed for children of all ages and is perfect for parents who are looking to keep their children’s lunch times fun, different and healthy too.

RRP: £10 - www.tumtumtots.com

Empty Nests - By Rosie Orgles Has your son or daughter flown the nest & fled to university? Are they in full fresher’s swing starting a new life away from home, meanwhile you’re consoling yourself, pacing the house and sniffing the clothes they’ve left behind?

Well if so, that can all stop by simply regaining your long lost social life, in fact one that will compete with your offspring’s student life!

Like most parents that have waved farewell to their baby/‘no longer a child but not quite adult’ you will now find yourself with a lot of free time, which instead of wasting by moping around the house you need to fill.

Blow away those empty nest blues and decide what you want to do. Now is your perfect chance to do all those things that previously you’ve never had time for.

Start with some ‘me-time’. Firstly, give yourself a massive pat on the back for getting your child this far and then be thankful for the blissful peace and quiet you can now enjoy at home.

It is far from the grotty, noisy digs your child is now experiencing and trust me they will soon be grateful for the heavenly environment you have provided them for all these years, a hot bath and clean crockery will never go unappreciated again!

So if you’re thinking how can I possibly fill all the time that I’m used to spending doing the washing, cooking & chauffeuring for my sproggs? Here’s how…

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Your child needn’t be the only one in the family starting a new course, take yourself back to college or university too and learn an additional skill. There are plenty of courses on offer and lots of opportunities to turn your hand to, that will take your mind off other things, boost your intelligence and even open doors for a change in career. Just because you’re not in your prime starting university at 18 don’t let that stop you.

Evening classes & Open University courses are available just for busy parents like you.

Whilst your child will be attending Fresher’s Fair to discover the variety of organisations and societies available at university, why don’t you search for local clubs you could join? For the same reasons they are recommended to new students, they are a great way for you to keep busy and meet new like-minded people too.

Perhaps you’ve got talents that you’ve kept hidden away, well now’s your time to uncover them, reveal your true capabilities and showcase your potential.

If you’ve been inspired by Strictly Come Dancing then dust off your dancing shoes, invite your friends along (or even your partner if they’re game) and attend one of the local dance schools for some ballroom or zumba sessions.

There are numerous adult classes out there for beginners where you can learn to salsa and jive or just go along for a weekly shimmy. They’re a great way to keep fit whilst having fun!

If you fancy a more traditional choir, Chelmsford Singers would suite you better.

They are an enthusiastic mixed voice choir who meet weekly during term time at The Cathedral School. They welcome singers with some experience to join their choir and perform with them at concerts throughout the year.

If this is more up your street see www.chelmsfordsingers.org.uk for more information or call 01245 400533.

Your kids aren’t around to moan that you’re embarrassing them anymore so don’t limit yourself to a sing-a-long in the shower, swap your hairbrush for a real microphone!

your old favourite jacket or those much-loved cushion covers and give theme a new lease of life. Make, Do & Mend run wonderful creative and craft workshops in Chelmsford. They aim to keep traditional skills and crafts alive, taking inspiration from our historic ‘make do and mend’ culture. So if you want knitting, crochet, sewing, dressmaking, upholstery, shoe-making or pottery-painting workshops then this is your cup of tea. They also host community based knitting, sewing and drawing clubs and even a gentleman’s club at the shop, which can be found on Byron Road, Chelmsford. For more information see www.makedomend.com.

Get creative soon & your handmade gifts will glisten under the tree this Christmas.

If just the thought of all this activity has tired you out or if you want some quiet time in your new busy social life too, then why not take up yoga or pilates to find your inner self, concentrate your mind and relax your body.

Kick back, drop down a gear and enjoy a slower pace of life now you can.

Though the men are welcome to all of the above, there are plenty of activities that may be more appealing for Dad’s too, check out the local comedy and film clubs for laughs and entertainment.

Now we all know that although the academic course is the reason your child has gone to university, the student nightlife is a big selling point too. There will be clubs and bars galore and many a fancy dress theme night. This may bring back nostalgic drunken memories/blurs from your student days but may also make you feel you’re missing out. What did happen to that social life of yours?

Although your nights out may be slightly more tame than your child’s and you may swap the litre bottle of vodka for a Prosecco or two, you can relive that fresher’s excitement. Get back in contact with your long-lost friends and arrange some dates in your diary for dinners and drinks. If you’re more of a daytime socialiser then try out the coffee shops & tearooms you didn’t have time to indulge in before. Or if you fancy partaking in a bit of culture, check out what’s on at the Civic Theatre or Cliffs Pavillion.

Evenings are now your own so make the most of these by hosting sophisticated dinner parties that could never have happened whilst the kids were around. Release your inner Nigella and whip up a sumptuous spread for your nearest and dearest. If cooking doesn’t come naturally to you, there are classes out there to improve your culinary skills specifically for these occasions.

So say goodbye to those feelings of redundancy you may have, make time for yourself and get ready to embrace the next chapter of your own journey whilst your little protégés get on with theirs.

Maybe you’ve always been in awe of your friends who have time to make gorgeous presents that you can just tell have been made and wrapped with love? Always wanted the chance to get crafty and get your sewing machine and knitting needles back out? Well now’s the time to do it. Restore

Image Credit: www.flickr.com/photos/unlimited___/244726984/

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Junior

If you’ve been influenced by Gareth Malone’s The Choir and fancy belting out a tune or two yourself then why don’t you consider joining a choir? Depending on your singing style or musical preference, there are different choirs out there to join. Funky Voices is a choir that sing modern music from emotional rich harmonies to feel-good dance tracks. People join for the singing, the social aspect and to be involved in creating the exciting sound collective voices make. With no audition or experience needed, it’s just your bubbly personality that they’re after. Funky Voices rehearse weekly in Chelmsford at Marconi Athletic and Social Club and Perryfields Infant School Community Hall.

For more information see www.funkyvoices. co.uk or call 07834 765473.

Home style

Fitting Laminate Flooring - Step by Step guide from Dremel How to cut and fit laminate …

Need to lay a laminate floor and want it fitted neatly into the foot of the skirting board?

Well, here’s how! Simply take your Dremel® DSM20™ Compact Saw and flush cut into the skirting board. Cut the laminate boards with the DSM20 too : a complete job with just one tool!

It couldn’t be easier. Simply follow our step-bystep guide below!

Tools required : Dremel® DSM20(tm) Compact Saw with DSM840 cutting guide, Dremel® DSM600 Multi-Purpose Flush Cut Carbide Wheel and the Dremel® DSM500 Multi-Purpose Carbide Wheel

Other materials required : •

• •

the room. And remember, sub-floors need to be fitted with an underlay before laminate flooring can be laid.

over and keep the end of the laminate with the short tongue towards the wall and tuck the laminate board into the cavity.

Step 2 : Underlay

Step 4 : Continue laying floor

Laminate flooring planks 14cms wide x 20 mm deep Underlay 3 – 4 mm deep Tape measure and pencil

Difficulty rating : Two stars – reasonably easy

Before you start: Laminate flooring is easy to lay on any smooth, dry, firm and level flat surface. When you install laminate flooring on a timber floor make sure that all nail heads are punched down or screws countersunk first. Concrete sub-floors will need to be level and may need latexing or another self-levelling compound applied in the worst cases, until the floor is flat enough. A waterproof membrane will also need to be laid before you can install laminate flooring on top of a concrete, asphalt, vinyl, quarry or similar tiled sub-floor. Scrape clean, sweep the floor, and keep it really tidy throughout the job. Any grit on the floor will scratch your laminate.

Lay your underlay. Trim to fit. Lay lengths side by side and secure them with masking tape.

Step 3: Start laying

Step 1 Measure up the dimensions of your floor and calculate the square metres of underlay and laminate that you will need, adding 10% extra for wastage. Laminate flooring should be laid in the same direction that the light shines into 32 PAGE |

Condition the boards before fitting, laying them horizontally in their packing in the room where they are to be laid for at least 48 hours. Prepare to lay the first board into the left-hand corner of the room. Turn the board over to protect it from being scratched and using it as a height guide, perform a flush cut into the base of the skirting boards with your Dremel DSM20 and the Dremel DSM600 Multi-Purpose Flush Cut Carbide Wheel. Then, turn your laminate board back

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2012 ISSUE 19 | www.Inspiredessex.co.uk

Get the first row of boards clicked together end to end. Continue to cut into the skirting board as you lay the laminate from left to right across your room, cutting the last laminate board with your Dremel DSM20 with the DSM840 cutting guide and the Dremel DSM500 Multi-Purpose Carbide Wheel to size. To measure the last board, turn it 180 degrees and lay it next to the previous one. Remember to stagger your joints.

Continue to lay your laminate boards left to right until the floor is laid. Fixing them under the skirting boards will keep them perfectly in place without the need to use flooring trims. You will need a threshold strip if you are going from laminate to carpet or other flooring material in the next room.

Downton-mania has returned with series three of the popular period drama starting in September. Audience figures reached 9.3 million in October, and Downton Abbey is now one of the most popular television programmes this autumn.

The ITV1 series is set to bring about a revival of pre-war decadence and elaborate vintage style – both in fashion and interiors. The captivating show inspires interiors of beautifully made and lavishly styled furniture.

We’ve been inspired ourselves by some of the more ornate and decorative furniture on offer… well, they say that gold never goes out of fashion OR loses its value…

Chateau D’Or Carved Mirror (£349) • Handmade from mahogany • Elaborately carved • Finished in gold leaf Rococo D’Or Bed (£829) • Handmade and carved from mahogany.

• Finished in gold leaf.

Rococo D’Or Bedside (£239) • Handmade and carved from mahogany.

• Finished in gold leaf Chateau D’Or Armchair (£379) • Handmade and carved from mahogany.

• Finished in gold leaf • Upholstered in black velvet www.newtonsfurniture.co.uk Stockist: 01626 333 006 www.Inspiredessex.co.uk |

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2012 ISSUE 19 | PAGE 33

Home style

The Golden Age

Home style

Chair-Leaders The latest selection of sofas from Sofa Design has more X-Factor than Louis Walsh and Gary Barlow put together.

bold statement. Beautifully upholstered in soft purple velvet with black arms and legs, this dramatic piece exudes gothic charm.

The Essex-based team of experts has designed an exclusive range to help give the home that much sought after “wow” factor, and enable you to sit and watch your chosen TV guilty pleasure in style and comfort.

The Leonardo Chair in silver with a stunning swirl pattern (from £850) is a truly elegant design that will transform the room. Create a chic dining area that will really impress guests.

Whether you’re a Strictly Come Dancing kind of person or you prefer to be entertained by cover versions of classic ballads on X Factor, why not play cliché bingo in one of this stylish selection?

This stand-out collection includes the sultry James Chair in an exclusive silver silk with black piping (from £1,500), a sophisticated design that will look right at home in the most glamorous boudoir.

With a throne-style back, the Hugo Purple High Back Chair (from £2,000) will make a

The gorgeous Superstar Pink Swivel Chair (from £1500) is guaranteed to turn that mundane home office into a hub of inspiration and creativity. Introducing a dash of colour, this unique dusty pink swivel chair delivers ultimate comfort and style.

So when Tulisa pipes up “You nailed it!” or Gary shakes his head and mutters, “I just wasn’t feeling that” try not to spill your tea on your new furniture…

James Chair

www.sofadesign.co.uk Stockist: 0208 5185443

Hugo Purple High Back Chair

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Superstar Pink Swivel Chair

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Leonardo Chair

There’s something about a palette of black, white and grey that spells smart, city living. Not only does this colour combo have a crisp clean feel, but it’s easy to update, carries through to every room easily and the greys soften the look. To compliment the look SPAZIO Design has a great selection of accessories in magical monochrome as well to add those finishing touches of style and elegance.

From Spazio With Love Marvellous monochrome

Stamp Rug: Prices from £765

Casa Collezione Cappuccino Dogtooth Print Cup & Saucer Set of

Picture Show

Christian Lacroix ‘Paseo Doble Pastis’

Cushion £60

cushion £95.00

Casa Collezione Dogtooth Print Throw £85.00 each

four £40.00 SPAZIO DESIGN, 40 New Street, Chelmsford CM1 1PH. Tel: 01245 299 331 www.spaziodesign.co.uk www.Inspiredessex.co.uk |

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Home style

SPAZIO07 Design

Home style Coffee culture is here to stay and with Starbucks launching its own home coffee maker and an ever-growing selection of artisan coffees, pods and more to choose from, there’s really no need to go out of the house on a cold November day if you fancy a decent cup.

Of course, you’ll need that perfect coffee house ambience, funky mugs and possibly a biscuit or two, but with a little ingenuity you can recreate the coffee shop vibe at a fraction of the price and what’s more you can stay open as long as you like…

#1 If you feel like splashing out, and are fairly confident that you can avoid spilling your drinks on it, the limited edition Le Chic Coffee Table is pretty hot and will give your coffee lounge some serious sophistication. It’s also available in American Walnut and American Cherry – and

if you really like it you can also order it as an 8-seater dining table with a glass top.

Price: Starts at £1950 - www.tragendesign.com

#2 Also from Tragen Design is the Embrace – a one off coffee table which was made for an exhibition along with its cousin ‘Pagoda’.

The interlocking design creates fascinating shadows when it’s lit from above, and it’s a real talking point. It’s currently available for £950. #3 For another statement coffee table, mix it up with the industrial design of the Curve Coffee Table from Sweetpea and Willow. It has a matching bookcase too, and looks sturdy enough for any number of fishbowl sized lattes.

Price: £1195 - www.sweetpeaandwillow.com

#4 This one’s another firm favourite – the catchily-named Bxf020 consists of a solid oak table top supported by large distressed iron wheels, which roll when you need to move the table around but are sturdy enough to stay in position through normal everyday use.

Price: £495 - www.outthereinteriors.co Brewing Up #5 The newest addition to the coffee machine list is the Verismo, which uses “Swiss engineered high-pressure technology and exclusive milk and coffee pods” to create Starbucks quality coffee without the queue or the trip into town. It’s only available in espresso, filter and latte varieties at the moment (of which there are a couple of each) but I’m sure it’s only a matter of time before they branch out into more exotic flavours. The milk steamer is extra if you want a more authentic style coffee.

#2

#1

#3

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The Verismo™ 580 Brewer is currently available from Starbucks at £149. www.starbucks.co.uk

choice of loose teas, fruit or herbal infusions with no mess or fuss. Price: £20 - www.beautifulhomesdirect.com

#6 Fancy a cappuccino? The Mukka Express is the world’s first stove-top cappuccino maker.

It combines trademark Bialetti styling with a generous milk pot for the perfect two-cup cappuccino experience, every time.

Price: £60 - www.lacafetiere.com

Drink up #9 Magpie’s Wildlife range, a collaboration with Bristol based artist Tom Frost is a quirky selection of British Mammals featured on mugs, plates, eggcups, bags, cake tins, iPhone covers and notebooks. The mugs come in a gift box set of four, with fox, hare, owl and otter designs.

Price £8 - www.magpieline.com

#7 The satin stainless steel, die cut wave motif and characteristic dome lid gives the La Cafetiere Wave a quirky appeal, and you can also accessorise with the matching sugar bowl and creamer.

Price: £26.95 - www.lacafetiere.com

#10 One for all creatives: The Pantone Mug! Pantone Universe™ is the universal colour matching system, used worldwide in every spectrum of design. Whatever the season or situation, there is sure to be a Pantone mug to suit. Each mug design includes the individual Pantone colour swatch reference and number.

Price £9.50 each - www.rume.co.uk

#11 For the tea drinkers; a fabulous quirky face teacup and saucer – and there’s even a matching teapot!

Price: £18.25 www.birdieandwood.co.uk

#8 For those who prefer a nice cup of tea; La Cafetière Teafusion is a thermal glass teapot with a lid filter that allows you to infuse your

#7 #8 #6

#10

#9

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Home style

Coffee Culture

The Garden

Wonderful Winter Baskets - by Grant Whitaker

If you haven’t already, it’s not too late to make bright and bold winter baskets. First of all, choose your container. You don’t have to settle for the usual round basket. They now come in lots of shapes – cones, horns, wall mounted, even squares. They’re not just plastic either.

Choose from woven willow, wood, or baskets covered with dried autumn leaves for extra impact. Be sure to make plenty of drainage holes in the basket liner as we can expect plenty of rain through the winter months. The last thing you want is your plants sitting in wet soil and rotting away. Fill the basket with decent compost – multi-purpose will do – and now you’re ready to fill it with plants.

You’re completely spoilt for choice these days for flowering plants with which to fill your basket. Large faced winter pansies are a firm staple in any winter arrangement and will never let you down. The same can be said for violas.

Their small petals, in an array of colours, are

Adding trailing plants is always tricky with winter pots, but a welcome addition over the last few years include fantastic varieties of trailing winter violas and pansies. These really do give a basket that extra wow factor!

often scented and will compliment any display you decide to create. Cyclamen are great for impact but make sure you choose a hardy variety. Solanum (Christmas Cherry) and heather are good choices too, the latter often found dyed in vibrant colours.

Winter baskets tend not to grow as vigorously as summer ones. If you are concerned that you may not get to see the full effect of your winter basket, extend the chain it hangs from so you can look down on your masterpiece!

Small evergreen shrubs and berried plants also add interest to containers without the use of flowers. Try Aucuba Japonica, Skimmia, Gaultheria, Hebes and Euonymus for that all important winter colour.

It’s wise to use a central plant in your container and then plant around that, working out to the edge of the container. For a central plant, you need height – choose a Conifer, Cordyline or any favourite evergreen plant with attractive foliage.

Making your garden decking winter proof 1. Clean your deck thoroughly 2. Remove mold and 3. Re-oil or weather proof

With the nights drawing in and the leaves dropping, the likelihood is that you’re looking at your deck and planning to clear it and prepare it for winter. Irrespective of whether you have deck furniture or an abundance of pots on your deck, it’s highly likely that your intention is to pack them away to save them from the harsh weather that could be lurking ahead. Either way, do make sure that when you’re removing heavy items on your deck that you take care not to inadvertently cause damage.

Once you’ve moved all the items on your deck, you’ll probably find that you have a significant amount of muck and mold staining sitting on the surface that needs to be removed. Here’s our three-step approach:

It’s important to brush and clear away all debris and then rinse your deck with a garden hose.

This will give you a clear view of your deck, enabling you to assess the seriousness of the task ahead. Once you’ve cleared away the loose dirt and debris, something you’re likely to see is a build up of mold or green algae. Before preparing your deck for the winter ahead, it’s important to remove the mold.

Mold, or green algae is a pretty much unavoidable frustration when you have a deck, but the good news is that it can be removed without too much difficulty. Here’s what you need to do. The easiest option is to buy a pre-mixed algae removing solution from your decking supplier. Before applying it, you need to sweep your deck thoroughly with a stiff brush, getting right into any hidden corners. If you haven’t done so already, you should hose down your deck and allow it to dry. At this point you can apply the algae removing solution according to the manufacturers instructions and give it time to react. Once the product has done it’s

job, you can hose or sweep it away, removing the algae in the process.

Once you’ve cleared your deck of algae, you’re sure to have a reasonably clean surface, which is ready to oil or reseal with a weatherproof finish. However, before doing so, it’s well worth taking this opportunity to have a close look at every board of your decking to check its condition. Now is a great time to make sure you secure any wobbly boards, replace or repair any split boards, or sand away any splinters.

Decking oil is a great way of protecting your wood, while letting its true beauty shine through. Oiling will also help your hardwood stand up to the weather thrown at it during the winter months. The important thing with decking oil is choosing the right product for your deck; so don’t be afraid to ask the advice of your decking supplier if you’re in doubt, or doing this for the first time.

So, your deck is now clear of algae and is freshly oiled and weather sealed, but don’t forget, if we get a load of snow…don’t use a metal shovel to remove it because it could seriously damage your deck!

Image credit: www.flickr.com/photos/ freestockimages/4995196675/

38 PAGE |

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2012 ISSUE 19 | www.Inspiredessex.co.uk

We’ve teamed up with Tutti Grille to offer one lucky couple the chance to win a free meal for two worth £50.

Tutti offers beautifully cooked homemade Italian favourites such as Pollo Romano - chicken breast with smoked bacon and prawns in a creamy tomato and parmesan sauce. There’s also beautifully cooked pizzas and pastas, tasty

OFFER

salads, gourmet burgers and sizzling Tuscan grilles to enjoy.

To find out more, visit www.tuttigrille.com, or call 01376 552910.

Tutti is situated at Freeport Braintree and is the ideal place for light lunches whilst shopping at the designer village or pre-movie meals at the centre’s entertainment complex. Tutti can also accommodate large parties and has private booths for more intimate dining.

For your chance of winning a meal at Tutti Grille, simply go to www.inspiredessex.co.uk to answer the question Tutti Grille offers which type of cuisine? a) Italian b) French c) Indian

Restaurant review - Tutti Grille

by Karin Ridgers Tutti Grille is a large restaurant that doesn’t look out of place amongst the other high street eateries. However Tutti is a one off restaurant owned by a former Braintree based company run by Rob & Jules Reeley who have expanded in their area they now live – quite far away in Scotland.

We were warmly welcomed and then surprised at how busy the restaurant was although Thursday night is the new Friday night of course and Thursday is also late night shopping at the rather interesting Braintree Freeport Designer Village. Well worth a trip and combining Christmas shopping with dinner at Tutti.

A tip that the very helpful manager shared with us is that they frequently run special offers with the cinema just across the road – so one to watch out for.

We loved the starters – Marinated Olives, Tuscan Bruschetta and Sun dried Tomato and Basil Soup. All quite hearty and tasty.

For mains we had Penne Sicilana – with roasted aubergines, courgettes and peppers in a tomato and garlic sauce. I am quite a saucy person (no funny comments please) and they were happy with my request for more sauce.

Hubby had the Funghi pizza and Callum enjoyed the Margarita and again they were happy to hold the cheese and add pineapple too. These pizzas are a great size too.

You won’t go home hungry!

We do like a bit on the side and opted for green beans, garlicky mushrooms and creamed baby spinach and surprisingly we did leave empty plates.

We were too full for a desert however the Key Lime Martini and Pomegranate Martini just hit the spot.

Good atmosphere, good Tuscan influenced food and rather delicious cocktails too. Well worth a visit.

Recipe of the month Broccoli Wrapped in Bacon with a Blue Cheese Sauce A twist on the perennial “Pigs in Blankets” this makes the perfect surprise starter when entertaining. It’s also a winner at family mealtimes helping to get the kids eating their healthy greens. The easy to follow recipe is simple to prepare and yet looks impressive and tastes wonderful and of course helps towards your five-a-day.

Ingredients (serves 4): Preparation time: 30 minutes • 1 broccoli head • 8 rashers of bacon • 100g blue cheese/cheddar cheese • 250ml single cream • Salt • Pepper • Oregano • Olive oil

Preperation 1. Cut the broccoli into florets and blanch in boiling water for 3 minutes with salt and a splash of olive oil.

2. Wrap a large floret of broccoli with half a rasher of bacon and fasten with a toothpick.

3. Place on a baking tray and cook for 8-10 minutes or until the bacon is crispy.

4. To make the blue cheese sauce, put the cream in a saucepan and bring to the boil. Then add the blue cheese, salt and pepper and leave to reduce on a low heat.

5. To serve place a good spoonful of the sauce on the plate and serve the broccoli skewers on top.

6. Garnish with black pepper and a sprinkle of oregano.

www.Inspiredessex.co.uk |

Chef’s Tip: this is a delicious recipe to introduce children to eating vegetables. The blue cheese can easily be replaced with a milder cheddar to make it more child friendly.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2012 ISSUE 19 | PAGE 39

Dine in Style

ENJOY THE TASTE OF ITALY AT TUTTI GRILLE – WIN A MEAL FOR 2 WORTH £50

RED

INSPI

Dine in Style

Restaurant Reviews – Pho

by Karin Ridgers Pho Westfield is located at the heart of Westfield Stratford City with amazing views onto the Olympic park and the stadium itself, and a design inspired by a visit to Hanoi. The restaurant features a fully open kitchen where you can watch the stocks being made in front of you in huge stockpots.

“With its warm welcome and feel good décor Pho is a great introduction to Vietnamese food.

My friend and I sat by the large open windows to eat and people watch.

This style of food is new to me – like a fusion of Indian and Chinese. All the dishes are cooked fresh so you can mix and match and leave things out – great if you do have special dietary requirements.

We needed more of the curry dish – not because the portions were small - they are not at all. It’s just that it was so delicious. The restaurant become more and more busy as

the evening drew on showing that this growing chain of restaurants must know what they are doing.

We washed our delicious food down with fresh lemonade and followed it with a must have flower tea -the rather large flower opens up in the glass and can be topped up several times with water. I made several pints from the flower I took home with me!”

Verdict: Great menu choices, and all fresh so can be adapted.

Will we return? Yes, and I’m looking forward to it.

Prices: A meal for two cost approximately £60 with several starters and mains to share, deserts, drinks although no alcohol (this time) www.phocafe.co.uk

Restaurant review - Carluccio’s

by Karin Ridgers If you want to team up a bit of Christmas shopping with a visit to a delicious restaurant, our nearest Carluccio’s is at Bluewater, and there’s also one in Bury St Edmunds in Suffolk – although we visited the delightful restaurant in Chichester (another place that’s definitely well worth a weekend away!)

We appreciated the super helpful service and tasty Italian food. Going to Carluccio’s feels like stepping into your own little piece of Italy. We

had a long relaxing meal although I did overdo it bread wise – tasty as it is it came with every course I ordered!

I adore olives, lemons and Italian breads and these were in abundance for us.

We were impressed at how helpful our waitress was by checking ingredients for us and felt that our vegan dietary requirements were respected.

We enjoyed all of the following and the restaurant really can’t be faulted. We had the

40 PAGE |

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2012 ISSUE 19 | www.Inspiredessex.co.uk

pleasure of seeing a little of a live demonstration by Antonio Carluccio a while back – a very laid back and simple style. I have heard that he enjoys inventing dishes with no more than three ingredients. Simple, elegant and fresh.

Verdict: We have fallen in love.

Will we return? Book our table!

Meal for three – what’s the damage?

Nibbles, starters, mains, sides, deserts and a lemon liqueur to finish was around £100. www.carluccios.com

Everest Gurkha Bar & Restaurant

Loch Fyne

The Bay Horse

The Spotted Dog

We would like to invite you into the

Situated on Bond Street, our restaurant

Situated in the heart of Chelmsford this

The pubs vibe is stylish yet relaxed and

restaurant for a fine-dining and cultural

has a large bar area, restaurant seating

beautiful 15th Century Tudor Style

hints at the culinary delights to come.

experience with our truly authentic

for 120 guests. Come and join us for the

building, maintains all its original

With it’s high quality food and bar offer-

Nepalese cuisine that is sure to give

freshest, most delicious seafood - we’re

features, with the decor and quirkiness

ing a choice of real ales and wine by the

you an exotic taster of the vibrant yet

open all day from breakfast through to

of a more modern, contemporary

glass. The menu offers a range dishes

equally peaceful country. There will be

dinner for drinks, light snacks and

cutting edge establishment. The

created from fresh seasonal produce,

frequent dates of Live Jazz Night, with a

seafood feasts! We are delighted to

beautiful Bay Horse in Moulsham

generous in portion and a delight on

cleared dance floor for our customers to

offer a first rate à la carte menu at our

Street has been transformed into an

the palate. Apart from sourcing the

catch the rhythm including special

Loch Fyne Chelmsford restaurant and

amazing upmarket eatery, combining a

best ingredients, staples like bread and

traditional performances of Nepalese

you will be treated to a great array

traditional wine bar and bistro concept,

ice cream are made on the premises.

folklore dancing. We hope you can come

of fresh and seasonal dishes that are

with exquisite yet contemporary tastes.

Just off the beaten track, this gem of a

to enjoy the Nepalese atmosphere and

perfect for every palate - come down

The ultimate destination for mouth

country pub offers the visitor a warm

we look forward to welcoming you.

and see us soon.

watering food, refreshing drinks and

welcome and an experience that won’t

exceptional service.

be forgotten.

01245 293620 Bond St, Chelmsford www.lochfyne-restaurants.com

01245 251 371 Moulsham Street, Chelmsford www.bayhorsechelmsford.com

01245 231 598 Barnston, Dunmow, CM6 1N. www.the-spotted-dog-bishopsgreen.co.uk

The Lion Inn

Chiquito

Strada

Sapori Ristorante

The Lion Inn offers diners a unique

‘South of the border’ passion is always

Strada describes itself as ‘a group of

Located in the Atlantic Hotel. Translated

eating and drinking experience as well

served up at Chiquito. A menu of

stylish, contemporary Italian restaurants,

“Sapori” is italian for flavours. This

as hotel facilities and a new style to rival

bold Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine is

serving good quality, simple and freshly

essence has been incorporated in every

many. Our menu is based on good pub

prepared however the diner likes it.

prepared dishes’. Each outlet retains

detail of this elegant restaurant and

grub that’s been given a continental

Burritos, sizzling fajitas and tacos can

the feel of being a local neighbourhood

bar. The menu focuses on the region of

feel. We know you’d expect to find

all be customised for vegetarians or

Italian restaurant. The menu includes

Abruzzo on the Adriatic coast. Sapori

steak, fish & chips and a delicious

those wanting more spice. A kids menu,

pastas, risottos, salads, and fish dishes,

offers an a la carte menu, as well as a

shortcrust pastry pie but we also hope

games and entertainment add to the

but they are best known for their quality

bar menu for those who prefer a lighter

to tempt you with Thai style mussels

family-friendly vibe, and there is a great

pizzas. They present authentic Italian

meal. Specialising in fresh seafood,

and rotisserie garlic & herb chicken to

range of exciting cocktails, mocktails,

dishes in contemporary surroundings

home-made pasta with a variety of

name but a few of the freshly prepared

wines and tequilas.

and aim to use only the freshest and

mouth watering sauces, rustic breads

and cooked to order dishes on our

finest ingredients, imported from Italy

and flamboyant desserts.

menu.

to provide exactly the kind of rustic,

European

British, Modern

Classic Pub

Finest Nepalese Cuisine

01245 493929 8-10 Broomfield Road www.everestgurkhabarandrestaurant. co.uk

British, Modern

Mexican

Italian

Italian

traditional dishes.

01245 394900 Boreham, Chelmsford www.lioninnhotel.co.uk

01245 240800 Army & Navy, Chelmsford www.chiquito.co.uk

01245 491 991 Baddow Road, Chelmsford www.strada.co.uk www.Inspiredessex.co.uk |

01245 268 179 New Street, Chelmsford www.saporiitalian.co.uk

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2012 ISSUE 19 | PAGE 41

Dine in Style

OUT TO EAT

Feature your restaurant here... call 01245 252575

Motors

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42 PAGE |

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2012 ISSUE 19 | www.Inspiredessex.co.uk

www.automotiveblog.co.uk

2. Contact details If you’re a member of a breakdown service, make sure you keep their contact details and your membership number in the car. It is also worth keeping a detail of your preferred choice of garage services to give to your breakdown cover company.

3. Breakdown ’kit’ These are a few items you should keep in a box or a bag in your boot at all times.

- A foot pump, for inflating the spare tyre to the correct pressure.

Car breakdowns can happen anytime, anywhere and to anyone. But, by simply keeping a few essentials in your car, you can ensure that if the worst happen you will be safe and comfortable while waiting for help.

1. Mobile phone Nearly everyone has a mobile phone these days but it’s important that you keep it charged. An in-car charger will let you keep it topped up when you’re on the go, meaning that if you do need to use it for an emergency, you’ll be able to do so.

- A torch, in case you break down in the dark. A head torch is also a good idea as it leaves you ‘hands-free’ to deal with things.

- A reflective warning triangle to place behind your car if you have to leave it on the road.

While these are not legally required in the UK (unlike some other countries) they help other motorists see you well in advance.

- A first aid kit.

Paul McCartney’s Aston Martin DB5 sells for £307,000 www.carsuk.net

All things Aston Martin at the moment seem to be James Bond related with the latest Bond film – SKYFALL – hitting cinemas and the iconic Aston Martin DB5 back on the big screen as Bond revisits his roots.

But if there’s a UK ‘franchise’ that’s bigger even than Bond, it’s the Beatles. And Bond and the Beatles came together last night at R.M. Auction’s London sale when a 1964 Aston Martin DB5 first owned by Paul McCartney went under the hammer.

- High visibility vests for all occupants – very useful if you have to leave the car and sit on the verge or banking.

4. Spare clothes You should always have extra clothing with you in case you need to leave the car and sit outside while waiting for assistance. What you take will depend on the season. If you are going on a long journey in winter, you should take some warm, waterproof clothing with you. If the weather is particularly bad, you might want to consider a sleeping bag or duvet too. In warmer weather, an extra jumper or light waterproof will be sufficient.

5. Food and drink It’s a good idea to keep some emergency food and drink supplies in your car. A couple of bottles of water and some cake bars or chocolate should be enough to keep you comfortable and hydrated if you do break down. When heading out in winter, you should take a flask of tea or other hot drink in case you have to wait in the cold.

Want a 28% return on investment? Buy a Classic Ferrari www.carsuk.net

As befits one of the most famous musicians of all time, McCartney specified his DB5 with a raft of options including the selectaride rear shockers, chrome wire wheels and a leather interior which had musical notes stitched in. He also specced the DB5 with a Motorola radio and a state of the art record player – a Philips Auto-Mignon record player that could spin a 45rpm vinyl record on the move.

The 1964 DB5 was ordered by McCartney before the Beatles embarked on their world tour in

Paul’s car has received some TLC in recent years with a complete cosmetic restoration – and a coat of original colour Sierra Blue – plus some fettling of the brakes and cylinder head. It sold to its lucky new owner for £307,000.

1964 (which, if nothing else, shows how soon the Beatles started to have access to serious funds) and was completed by Aston Martin on 3rd July 1964.

A new owner who has managed to grab himself a really iconic piece of motoring, film and music history. We reckon his money is safe. www.Inspiredessex.co.uk |

So, you’ve made a few bob and you want to get a return on your money? You can do the usual property, cash, shares balance and see a nominal return, but what else can you do?

It seems, especially if you’re a petrolhead, you can have your cake and eat it by investing in classic cars, and particularly in classic Ferraris, and not just see your investment on a balance sheet but in your garage too.

The Wall Street Journal has been looking at ‘Treasure ASsets’ like fine wines, works of art and classic cars. And they’ve realised investors can – if trhey’re clever, careful and lucky – see returns of up to 28 per cent a year.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2012 ISSUE 19 | PAGE 43

Motors

5 Essentials to have in your car in case of breakdown

Business

Planning ahead – by Sarah Brockwell With only a few weeks until Christmas, some readers will be planning their winter holidays.

Whether or not they will travel abroad, a key consideration of any trip should be the travel insurance.

Glen Smith, MD of Avanti Insurance Ltd (based in Braintree) gives his advice to ensure you are adequately covered.

“Avanti insures more than 60,000 clients every year. Essentially, winter holidays usually fall into three categories: 1. Winter sun (e.g. Caribbean, Australia, Canaries) 2. Winter cruises (anywhere in the world) 3. Winter sports (e.g. skiing, snowboarding) It is true that holidays are becoming more interesting and exotic in terms of destinations and themes. We specialise in the over 50s market and would not bat an eyelid if asked to insure an 80 year old to go skiing. However, there are some important do’s and don’ts to remember, whatever type of trip you are considering:

DONT 1. Don’t assume your bank/credit card will offer adequate travel insurance cover 2. Don’t rely on a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to cover you entirely. (EHIC cards will only cover direct medical treatment and not ancillary costs such as repatriation etc.)

3. Don’t assume that because you have had a serious condition like cancer or heart disease that you will not be able to get cover.

We cover hundreds of cancer patients who

have been signed off for 5 years or more (additional premium may be payable) 4. Don’t be embarrassed to disclose your medical issues or concerns with the insurance agent (our agents are all based in the UK and are fully trained)

DO 1. Declare all your pre-existing medical conditions (write down a list of all your pre-existing medical conditions before you call the insurance agent) 2. Declare any situations which may lead to you cancelling your holiday (e.g. if a close family member is critically ill) 3. Book your travel insurance as soon as you book your holiday – that way you will be covered if you have to cancel before the departure date (single trip policies only).

For annual policies cover commences on the start date of the policy.

4. Declare any stopovers to your insurer (e.g. if you are spending 3 days in LA en route to Australia) 5. Check that you are covered for the entire length of your holiday if you are taking an extended break (e.g. more than 30 days).

Your policy will be void if your length of stay exceeds the dates stated on the policy certificate.

6. Ensure that your policy specifically covers you for winter sports if you are going skiing or snowboarding.

It is well known that the majority of travel insurance claims are not for loss or theft of personal belongings but for medical treatment and delay or cancellation of trips due to illness.

However, with such a large amount of Brits not covered for emergency medical treatment and with the average cost for overseas medical treatment being £2,040* it is far better to be safe than sorry. *Source: International Travel Insurance Journal Sept 2012, issue 140. Surveys carried out by MoneySupermarket and Money Advice Service

Avanti Insurance Ltd is a specialist travel insurance provider for the over 50’s and has no upper age limit for policies. Pre-existing conditions such as cancer and heart disease are also covered. Avanti Insurance Ltd provides travel insurance (single trip and annual) policies to over 60,000 clients each year. www.avantitravelinsurance.co.uk 0800 066 5604

Avanti Insurance Ltd is currently offering ‘Inspired’ readers a saving of up to 20% off of travel insurance booked online through www.avantitravelinsurance.co.uk www. sarahbeemarketing.com enquiries@sarahbeemarketing.com 01371 859104

In a recent survey* it was noted that a staggering 51% of British holidaymakers had planned to travel abroad this year with no travel insurance. Furthermore 8% have never bought travel insurance.

Great Dunmow’s sarahBee marketing wins a third Business Award SarahBee marketing has proved once again that the company certainly has the X Factor when it comes to winning business awards, the company has just been given the accolade of ‘Business to Business 2012’ in the Mid-Essex Business Awards, which were sponsored and judged by Cofunds, financial services providers.

The Essex Business Awards have been established for 18 years and are a local platform for celebrating the very best business successes in the area.

SarahBee marketing was praised for commitment and passion in helping other businesses succeed. The gala awards

44 PAGE |

ceremony took place on Friday 19th October at Boreham House, Chelmsford.

Sarah said she was, “thrilled with the achievement. With over 60,000 small businesses in Essex I am proud to have been chosen as one of the most successful in the county.”

The 2012 awards have highlighted Essex’s exceptional talent. Braintree District Cllr. Ron Ramage attended the ceremony and noted “people are business’ greatest assets and it was simply inspiring to see the vibrant young businesses that are growing across the county.” www.sarahbeemarketing.com

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2012 ISSUE 19 | www.Inspiredessex.co.uk

“ I invested a lot of time and money in getting the product marketing right and improving the website; and launched the business in September this year. The wagons are real attention grabbers, and my daughter regularly gets stopped asked where she got hers from.”

The Toby Wagon, based on the classic allAmerican toy, is a brightly coloured pull-along wagon that’s just perfect for hauling toys or picnic items across fields and parks – even children when their little legs get tired!

New Business start-up, Sales and Marketing Store, run by Chelmsford based Martin Roberts has landed an exclusive contract to market the brand here in the UK. He told us: “I wanted to buy a toy red wagon for my daughter but when I looked into it, the Radio

Current stockists of Toby Wagons include Sandon Garden Centre and there are stockists as far afield as Burnham on Sea in Somerset and the Isle of Wight.

Flyer wagons were £225 which I just couldn’t afford. I remembered my ex-colleague’s Toby Wagons, and decided to get in touch with him.

He told me that he hasn’t had much success with trying to market the wagons in the UK, so I offered to take on the UK marketing myself.

The Sales and Marketing Store and Toby Wagons story are certainly a welcome one in these difficult times for businesses everywhere. It shows that with the right idea, coupled with the grit to make the most of a gap in the market on limited resources, everyone’s a winner. www.tobywagons.co.uk

Essential mistakes to avoid in international trade!

– Levent Yildizgoren Different markets require different approaches.

A product or service that is very profitable in your domestic market may not be so in an overseas market. Factors such as shipping, currency fluctuations and the target market’s legal requirements need to be taken into account whenever a product is taken abroad.

#1 Not doing your market research You need to think carefully about the customers who will buy your product, the best way to sell in the market, your competition and the market situation. You should also investigate practical issues such as route to market, logistics, regulations and local suppliers in your chosen market.

#2 Not testing the market first There are simple, cost effective ways to test the market before considering any major investment. Depending on the product/service and your potential customers, social media may offer a viable platform for testing the market. Google pay per click campaigns aimed at the country you are targeting can also be a very cost effective way to research a potential market.

#3 Not planning your entry strategy A planned approach helps you to identify the best opportunities. It ensures that you understand what’s involved and have the resources and skills you need. It is important to be realistic in your ambitions. Identify your product or service that is best suited to

exporting first even if you are not clear on your target market at this point in time.

#4 Assuming your product will not need any modification Different countries have different requirements.

What is acceptable in your domestic market for your product may not be acceptable in another country. To prevent a costly product recall, a simple research study can unearth the regulatory requirements of the target country and put your endeavour on firm legal ground.

#5 Assuming your sales staff do not need training in international trade Sales staff who are experienced in their domestic market will still need to be trained for international trade. Training required will depend on the company’s product/service, market entry method and type of customers. For example, international packaging requirements can be quite different from the domestic requirements.

And trying to export products without the correct labels will result in product recalls costing money and time.

#6 Not realising different markets need different approaches

to them. In order to be successful in overseas trade, you need a clear understanding of the market you are targeting and how your product will fit within it.

#7 Not taking into account cultural issues and language barriers You need to understand local cultural influences in order to sell your products effectively. For example, your product may be viewed as a basic commodity at home, but not in your overseas market. Your sales and marketing approach will need to reflect this change in perception. You will also need to consider language issues.

Blog: www.yildizgoren.wordpress.com Twitter : @yildizgoren www.ttcltd.com Direct Line: 01245 216933

A ‘one size fits all’ approach will not work since there are big differences between different markets and countries. For each overseas market, you’ll need a clear understanding of who your customers are, what motivates them to buy and how best to market your products

www.Inspiredessex.co.uk |

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2012 ISSUE 19 | PAGE 45

Business

All-American Wagon spells success for one Chelmsford Business

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44

2

3

2

SECTION A-A SCALE 1 / 2

Showing Cut Out for TV Aperature at Bottom SCALE 1 / 10

See drg 101 For Details

2

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50

49

Solid Timber

3

MDF

3

258

40 48

3

253

70 181.4 133

PLYWOOD

50

806 127

Ă˜50.00

ITEM 2 3 40 49 50 48

49 2

QTY 12 12 2 6 12 2

DESCRIPTION Rib-1 Rib-2 Rib Insert Ribb-Rear Spacer Ribb-Front Spacer Rib Insert

THICKNESS LENGTH 12.00 mm 2430 mm 12.00 mm 806 mm 23.00 mm 1300 mm 44.00 mm 2982 mm 44.00 mm 1650 mm 44.00 mm 1400 mm

WIDTH 277 mm 277 mm 70 mm 44 mm 44 mm 44 mm

+44 (0)1245 257194 +44 (0)7779 392870 info@komtecltd.com www.komtecltd.com 50

R13744.00

Parts List MATERIAL MDF MDF Softwood Softwood Softwood Softwood

A

16/04/10

802.00

Changes to accomadate TV Bracket As Detailed @ A1

12/04/10

258

2

2430

200

133

R212.50

181.4

190

712

60

253

45

127

Ribb Construction

Ă˜50

DRAWING Nr

46 PAGE | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2012 ISSUE 19 | www.Inspiredessex.co.uk

Gadsby Wicks - Priory Place

NG/PP/AV-100

REV

A

If you would like to support the hospital through a community group or campaign, simply contact Mary Atkins at Mid Essex Hospital Charity on 01245 516462 or e-mail her at mary.atkins@meht.nhs.uk.

For more information about the charity go to: www.meht.nhs.uk/getinvolved

Mealtime Mission helps our patients get all their The VERY best of British necessary care and nutrition Mid Essex Hospitals are ensuring all their patients are getting the right care and nutrition with a new initiative that helps and supports them at mealtimes.

At Mid Essex Hospitals, we make sure that all our patients have the right nutrition and hydration, which is a fundamental part of care, not only to provide an excellent patient experience, but to promote healing, recovery and to reduce the risk of complications during their stay in hospital.

To ensure our patients receive this best care possible, we have recently launched a new initiative, the Mealtime Mission. The aim of the Mealtime Mission is to ensure that all in-patients have their nutritional and hydration needs met whilst they are in our care.

Broomfield Hospital did their bit to support Macmillan Cancer Support by hosting a Macmillan coffee morning. All the action was captured by BBC Essex Radio, who broadcast live from the event on the Dave Monk Show.

The coffee morning was a huge success, and raised over £700 for to support the work of Macmillan Cancer Support.

Matt Riddlestone, MacMillan Lead Nurse for Cancer and Palliative Care at the Trust said: “The Trust aspires to provide first class cancer care for the people of Mid Essex ensuring that patients are at the centre of all that we do. Working alongside Macmillan

Mid Essex Hospital Services

NHS

NHS Trust

Cycling challenge pays off for neonatal

A big part of the Mealtime Mission is to recruit volunteers to become Mealtime Companions.

Mealtime Companions are volunteers who assist our nursing staff and healthcare assistants at mealtimes on the wards by offering the extra support to those patients who require it. This means helping our patients, whilst ensuring dignity and allowing them to retain their independence.

The volunteers provide a friendly face and a welcoming smile in what can be a difficult and very stressful time for patients.

If you would like to assist patients and become a mealtime companion then please contact either Angela Wade or Jonathan Wright Tel: 01245 514577 e-mail: jonathan.wright@meht.nhs.uk

Mark Long, Advanced Neonatal Nurse Practitioner and Joyce McIntosh, Ward Manager, are joined by Denise, Peter and their children, Millie and Louis - who was so excited by it all that he slept through the presentation!

for everything they did for Louis, because if it weren’t for them he wouldn’t be here.”

A huge THANK YOU to Braintree mum, Denise Dell, who recently donated an incredible £700 to the neonatal unit at Broomfield Hospital raised from a 52 mile sponsored cycle from London to Southend.

Staff on the unit were delighted to welcome Denise, her husband Peter, daughter Millie and of course their son Louis, back to the unit to thank them for their tremendous support.

Denise chose to take on the fundraising challenge to thank staff on the unit for the care they gave her son, Louis, when he was born at 29 weeks.

Picture 1: Members of Friends at Broomfield provide a donation of adapted cutlery and dinner bells to ward staff and Angela Wade (far left) Professional Development Nurse and lead for the Mealtime Mission. Picture 2: One of the volunteer Mealtime Companions (far left) joins ward staff and the catering team to prepare to serve meals to patients.

MEHT supports the worlds biggest coffee morning

Local Support

Denise explained “I only recently took up cycling so the sponsored bike ride was a huge challenge but I really enjoyed it, and I’m thrilled to have raised this money for the neonatal unit.

This is just a small way of saying thank you

Cancer support enables the Trust’s cancer services to support patients and their families through this very difficult time by providing information; emotional support and financial advice.”

Broomfield Hospital is a cancer specialist centre for skin cancer surgery, upper GI cancer surgery and head and neck surgery, and the Trust is very supportive of the excellent work of the Macmillan. Over the years Mid Essex has eight funded Macmillan posts plus the Macmillan’s carers project. The Trust’s very busy chemotherapy unit has over 6000 treatments per year and these are managed by a Macmillan funded Clinical Nurse Specialist post.”

Matt Riddleston (far left) with helpers on the day

Bakers are preparing for next year already! www.Inspiredessex.co.uk |

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2012 ISSUE 19 | PAGE 47

Local Support

Broomfield Hospital receives tremendous support from the community throughout the year. Below are just a few examples of how the generosity of local supporters has made a positive difference to life at the hospital.

Pets

A Big Hello from Millie Millie’s New Bedding There are many dog bed out there but we have one that does the job! We bought Millie a new bed from Pets at Home. It has a lovely soft cover and a super comfy memory foam mattress. The Memory Foam Mattress is made from orthopaedic memory foam that adapts to your dog’s body contours, helping to reduce the pressure on their joints and spine.

It will help your dog get a good nights rest.

This mattress is ideal for dogs that are recovering from illness or with long term health problems.

Available in X-Small, Small, Medium, Large and X-Large. Prices start from £14.99 www.petsathome.com

Vaccinating Your Pet Millie has just had a reminder from the vet that she is due her annual vaccine.

Vaccinations teach the immune system to recognise and respond quickly to certain infections before they can cause serious illness.

They contain harmless strains of the viruses and bacteria that your dog needs protection against.

Most of the diseases that are vaccinated against have no specific cure, and treatment can only support the animal before its immune system can hopefully fight off the disease. Recent advances in vaccine technology mean that they are safer than ever and can protect against even more diseases.

The best way to protect your pets and keep them safe, is by keeping up to date with their vaccinations.

Dogs are vaccinated against these four main diseases:

Canine parvovirus Transmission: Caught by contact with faeces from infected dogs. The virus can survive in the environment for up to nine months.

Symptoms: Mainly affects puppies between six weeks and six months of age, but can also affect older dogs which are un-vaccinated or have not had regular boosters. Puppies affected at a very young age can suffer from heart problems and often die. The most common symptoms are severe vomiting and diarrhoea, which can be extremely bloody (haemorrhagic

48 PAGE |

gastroenteritis). Affected puppies often become dehydrated. The virus also causes the white blood cell count to drop, leaving the puppy susceptible to other infections.

Canine distemper virus Transmission: Spread by all bodily secretions, e.g. saliva. It doesn’t last long in the environment so is more commonly spread by direct contact with an infected animal.

Distemper can affect other species such as ferrets.

Symptoms: Dogs of all ages can be affected.

Symptoms vary from fever and depression, to coughing, vomiting and diarrhoea, discharge from eyes and mouth and coughing. Dogs with very severe symptoms often die, mildly affected dogs will recover, but some will go on to have neurological problems in later life, known as ‘old dog encephalitis’. Symptoms can include muscle tics, difficulty walking or walking in circles and seizures. Other long term symptoms are eye problems and thickening of the skin on the nose and pads. This is why distemper is sometimes known as ‘hard pad’.

Leptospirosis Transmission: Leptospirosis (lepto) is a disease caused by a bacterium. The main source of infection is via infected urine, or by contaminated water, so dogs are at risk if they swim or drink from stagnant water or canals, especially in areas with high numbers of rats. The disease affects many different species, with different strains associated with different host species. In the UK the two major strains of lepto are carried by dogs and rats; however it can also cause weil’s disease in humans.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2012 ISSUE 19 | www.Inspiredessex.co.uk

Symptoms: Lepto causes fever, lethargy, increased thirst, vomiting, bloody diarrhoea and jaundice. In severe infections dogs develop kidney and/or liver failure and will often die.

Infectious canine hepatitis ICH (Also know as canine adenovirus) Transmission: Spread by contact with the saliva, urine, faeces, blood or nasal discharge of infected dogs. The urine of an infected dog can be infectious for up to a year, and the virus can survive in the environment for many months.

Symptoms: There are two versions of this virus – one causes a kennel cough type infection, the other causes hepatitis (an infection of the liver).

Symptoms include lethargy, coughing, fever, vomiting and diarrhoea, jaundice and abdominal pain. The symptoms can be very similar to those of parvovirus.

Why Does Millie Need Annual Boosters?

Although some components of the routine vaccine do stimulate a long-term immunity that can last for a few years, most components do not and so an annual booster is essential to ensure full protection. The specific interval between booster injections will vary depending on which product is used and so it is essential to consult your veterinary surgeon, who will know your own dogs` requirements.

How Are Vaccines Given?

Most dog vaccines are given by injection into the scruff of the neck. The procedure goes unnoticed in most cases. Millie is all booked in for her vaccinations to ensure she is protected for another year.

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NURSERY SCHOOL

CHIMNEY SWEEPING

HM Chimney Sweeping Traditional chimney sweep with brushes, fire place sealed and an advanced technology vacuum used to prevent soot escaping.

Wedding Hair and Make-up, Proms, Luxurious parties, All Hair treatments, All Beauty treatments. www.luxurioushairbeauty.com

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FITNESS

PICTURE FRAMING

Are you looking for a challenging workout that’s effective, but never boring? Mibootcamp may well be your answer.

PICTURE FRAMERS CHELMSFORD since 1994

Little Channels Golf Centre, Little Waltham, CM3 3PR Monday 9:30am & 7:00pm / Wednesday 9:30am / Thursday 7:00pm / Saturday 9:30am

ART GALLERY

Archival Picture Framing advice & Specialist service Art Restoration

www.mibootcamp.co.uk

01245 248662 www.interiorangle.co.uk

The only Gallery in Essex exhibiting established & emerging Artists at International Art Fair level

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SHELLAC NAILS

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From £10 for Finger nails From £10 for Toe nails TM

Shellac Nails Revolutionary product changing the TM way women get their nails done. Shellac Nails last up to 14 days without losing shine or shimmer.

They are hard and do not scratch or smudge.

Contact Leann on: 07779 676570 www.Inspiredessex.co.uk |

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2012 ISSUE 19 | PAGE 49

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Tel: (01245) 269983

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Vegetable Chilli Burrito

homemade chicken and corn chowder with a fresh crusty roll

soft flour tortilla parcel filled with homemade spicy vegetable chilli, served with rice, cheese, guacamole & salsa

Love at First Bite cup mushrooms filled with smooth brussels pate then deep fried in golden breadcrumbs with a garlic dip

BIT Wings chicken wings baked in our famous smoked bar-b-q sauce

Baked Camembert with a spicy cranberry compote and ciabatta toast

Seafood Trio tuna, snapper and salmon, on a bed of pea and mint vegetable risotto with an exotic fruit salsa All served with roast potatoes, honey roast parsnips, cauliflower cheese, carrots and brussels sprouts

Salmon and Crayfish Terrine smoked salmon and crayfish pate with salt and pepper crostini

Christmas Pudding served with homemade brandy sauce

Hot Chocolate Fudge Cake served with vanilla ice cream

Fresh Roast Turkey accompanied by bacon wrapped chipolatas, homemade festive stuffing, cranberry sauce and gravy

Pecan Pie served with cream

Mixed Ices fruit sorbet and vanilla ice cream

Prime Sirloin Steak 8oz of top quality steak chargrilled as you like it! served with homemade peppercorn sauce

Apple and Cinnamon Brulee served with shortbread

Filter Coffee and Sweet Treats

Beautiful homes deserve beautiful furniture The Gemma range is also available with soft covers.

GEMMA

3 seater sofa in L grade leather.

MRP £1898

AYRLP £1419

2 seater (L grade) - MRP £1742

AYRLP £1299

...and low prices, all year round!

BOSCO

5’ (150cm) bedstead.

MRP £945

AYRLP £749

Crafted from solid oak and oak veneers.

AYRLP - All Year Round Low Price. Prices stated are ‘Prices from’.

TUSCANY

Dining table plus 4 chairs.

MRP £1329

AYRLP £999

Crafted with grade three oak FSC certified timbers, with a white oil finish and hand planed edges.

Free delivery...

on all furniture & bed orders over £499 within our trading area.

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36 months interest free credit available Subject to status. up to

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Wing chair in Finnigan Pebble.

MRP £878

AYRLP £699

220 Moulsham Street, Chelmsford

Tel:

01245 490101

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