i-on magazine | April 2017 by i-on Edinburgh

WIN A DAY AT THE RACES And a luxury night at Stobo Castle INTRODUCING… The i-on Breakthrough Awards 2017 FRESH SOUNDS Amy Macdonald on her new album SCOTL A ND’S FR EE LIFEST Y LE M AG A ZINE

THE SPRING ISSUE New season trends and a new way of thinking

Contents

Issue 135 / April 2017

REGULARS

08 We Can’t Wait To… This month's must-dos 10 Win... A VIP experience with Stobo Castle Ladies Day at Musselburgh Racecourse 18 The Lifestyle Edit Local news in Edinburgh and Glasgow 21 My Edinburgh Civerinos’ owner Michele Civiera on parties and priorities 98 A Day In The Life Of… Geoff Ellis, CEO of DF Concerts

FEATURES

i-on Breakthrough Awards 2017 Scotland's emerging talent 36 Making Merry Why Scots are more creative than ever 42 He Says, She Says Jo Morris and Grant Stott talk fitness 58 Mix It Up Five interior colour rules to break 76 WTF Is Mindfulness? Craig Ali breaks it down

FASHION

52 Spring Style Update This season’s key looks

TRAVEL

70 24 Hours In Edinburgh The new look Radisson Blu hotel 72 Go Off-Grid Discover Scotland’s stunning bothies

BEAUTY

Back To Black The team road test activated charcoal 80 Tried And Tested Cath Tait plumps up her pout

CULTURE

84 5 Things You Need To Know About… Stormzy, the hot new grime artist

FOOD & DRINK

58 04

92 Awesome Asparagus Simple recipes featuring spring’s tastiest vegetable 94 Why Japanese Food Is Good For You Japans’ famously healthy diet

FEATURES

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INTRODUCTION

I-ON THIS MONTH

Longer days and brighter weather can only mean one thing: it’s time to refresh, reboot and embrace the new season. To help you on your way, we’ve put together an issue jampacked with ideas and inspiration for everything from wardrobe updates and home makeovers to spring getaways and healthier habits – for body, mind and soul. From our guide to living lagom (p64) to an exploration of Scotland’s growing maker movement (p36), we’re championing a greener approach to life. And if you want to get literal, we’ve even rounded up the best ‘green’ buys for your home (p62). If lime’s just not your colour, flick to page 58 for décor inspiration in many hues. Or for those of you who fancy adding a pop of colour to your wardrobe, check out our spring style guide for the season’s top trends and how to wear them (p52).

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We’re also celebrating those who set the trends this month with the launch of i-on’s Breakthrough Awards recognising Scotland’s most exciting, emerging talent. From fashion designers and filmmakers to chefs and mixologists, we’re looking for originality, innovation and quality. Three words that could easily be applied to stylist and designer Vixy Rae, who is shaking things up at Edinburgh’s oldest tailor (p44). For those of you seeking an escape from the daily grind, we’ve got Scotland’s best bothies (p72) where you can truly get away from it all in some of the country’s most remote and breathtaking locations. And speaking of far-flung destinations, congratulations to last month’s competition winner Alison Hawkins, who will soon be jetting off to Iceland for a chic city break. This month, you can win a VIP experience

ion_magazine

with Stobo Castle Ladies Day at Musselburgh Racecourse – just hang onto your fascinators, with endless Champagne and a celeb-studded after-party, it’s sure to be quite a ride. We’ll see you there.

Carrie Mitchell, Acting Editor

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i_online

Published by Treacle Productions Ltd, Suite 9, 2 Commercial Street, Edinburgh, Scotland, EH6 6JA Tel: +44 (0)131 555 4126, Email info@ionmagazine.co.uk, www.ionmagazine.co.uk Directors Laura Cully, Jo Morris, Design Paul Dickson, Editor Nicky Howden, Acting Editor Carrie Mitchell, Lifestyle Editor Susie Cormack Bruce, Features Editor Dean Newton, Digital Editorial Manager Rebecca McCosh, Account Director Amy Falconer, Head of Creative Solutions and Brand Development Zoe Schmid, Business Development Manager Amanda Southey, Finance Manager Cath Tait, Traffic and Distribution Manager Becky Conway, Head of Photography Susie Lowe, Contributors Craig Ali, Laura Meek, Emily Murray, David Pollock, Carine Seitz, Vixy Rae, Grant Stott, Cat Thomson All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited. All prices correct at time of going to press but are subject to change. i-on magazine cannot be responsible for unsolicited material. The views and opinions by contributors in this magazine may not represent the views of the publishers. i-on magazine takes no responsibility for claims made by advertisements in this publication. i-on is a trademark of Treacle Productions. ©Treacle Productions Ltd 2017.

FEATURES

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WE CAN’T WAIT TO… The i-on team shares their must-dos this month

Indulge our inner child… “I’ll be heading to Perth over the Easter weekend to check out the Brick City LEGO® exhibition. The touring exhibition, created by Edinburgh-based author and artist Warren Elsmore, features more than 50 models of iconic buildings and there’s an interactive area where you can play Minecraft and build your own structures.” The exhibition runs until 07 May at Perth Museum & Art Gallery. Tickets cost £4 (or £10 for a family ticket) at eventbrite.co.uk. Paul Dickson, Designer

Rave it up… “After last year’s debut trip over the border, the Manchester DJs behind the biggest club of the '80s and '90s are returning to The SSE Hydro on 22 April with Haçienda Classical, where they’ll perform with a full live orchestra. I can’t wait to relive my clubbing days.” Tickets from £39.75, www.thessehydro.com Susie Lowe, Photographer

Have an arty dinner… “Edinburgh supper club Toasted Radish is popping up for one night only at the Fruitmarket Gallery on 22 April in honour of Turner Prize winning artist Mark Wallinger. With three courses, canapés, coffee and petit fours for £35 – plus the chance to check out the exhibition – it sounds like a cut above my usual ‘dinner and a movie’ Saturday night date. Book online at www.toastedradish.com” Rebecca McCosh, Digital Editorial Manager

FEATURES

The Finnieston

Going Up: DOUGHNUTS Head to the Bearded Baker in Canonmills for amazing flavours from affogato to Eton Mess. VEGANISM With epic veggie burgers at new café Holy Cow and vegan pies at Tollcross lifestyle store GrassRoots, who needs meat?

Feast in Finnieston “I can never decide on a restaurant so the news that I can now enjoy three in one night is music to my ears. The Finnieston Food Crawl is a new culinary experience allowing diners to enjoy each course in a different restaurant. At the launch night on 19 April, starters will be served at The Finnieston, mains at Porter and Rye, and desserts at The Gannet, plus you get a drink at each stop. Might need a taxi home after all that!” Tickets cost £67 and can be purchased at www. theglasgowfood.co. Susie Cormack Bruce, Lifestyle Editor

Get eclectic… “When it comes to nights out, I’ve decided to branch out from my local. The Eclectica Experiment on 20 April at The Caves promises to expand my horizons with innovative Edinburgh acts, like experimental darkpop queen Law Holt (pictured), a screening of short films from the Scottish Ballet and cocktails from unconventional whisky brand Black Bottle. Tickets cost just £10 and includes five (yes, FIVE) whisky cocktails and food. Book online at www.citizenticket.co.uk.” Carrie Mitchell, Acting Editor

GORILLAZ The new album – Humanz - from Damon Albarn’s virtual band apparently features a cameo from Noel Gallagher. Buried the hatchet, boys?

Barometer Going Down: EASTER EGGS We want one of these cool ‘Pyro pet’ candles instead - as the wax melts, a mini silver bird or bunny skeleton emerges. Get yours at www.glow.co.uk. TICKET TOUTS We’d have loved to go see Ed Sheeran in Glasgow this month but with touts snapping up all the tickets and flogging them for insane prices, we're going to have to miss out. SKIMMING STONES Don’t chuck ‘em, pile ‘em up instead. Be inspired at the first ever European Stonestacking Championship in Dunbar on 22 April.

I-ON PRIZES

WIN A VIP EXPERIENCE WITH STOBO CASTLE LADIES DAY AT MUSSELBURGH RACECOURSE

ust off those fascinators and look out the glad rags because Stobo Castle Ladies Day is back in Edinburgh on Saturday 17 June. Set to be one of the hottest tickets in town, the popular raceday at Musselburgh Racecourse always pulls in Scotland’s finest and this year stylish racegoers will be dressing to impress one of the UK’s most discerning style gurus - international fashion expert Gok Wan who’ll play on the decks at the acclaimed after party. As well as live entertainment and first class horse racing, on the day there’ll be hotly anticipated fashion competitions including the £5000 cash prize to be crowned Queen of Style. Racegoers can also toast their winnings in the pop-up bars. And of course there’s the after party with Gok Wan at the helm. Stobo Castle Ladies Day will take place on Saturday 17 June 2017. For tickets or more information visit www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk

THE PRIZE: i-on has teamed up with Musselburgh Racecourse to offer readers the ultimate VIP experience complete with an unforgettable overnight stay for two. The winner and a friend will be treated to one night’s accommodation in the luxury Cashmere Suite at Stobo Castle, with breakfast lunch, dinner and a bottle of Bollinger included. The winner will also receive a Champers & Hampers package for four people at Stobo Castle Ladies Day, inclusive of admission tickets, a luxury hamper and a bottle of Pommery Champagne. TO ENTER: For a chance to win, visit www.ionmagazine. co.uk by 23 April 2017 and leave your details. The winner will be notified by email and announced in the May issue of i-on magazine. For more exclusive prizes subscribe to the i-on weekly newsletter at www.ionmagazine.co.uk.

SPRING LIVING

NEW STORE

C O C K B U R N S T. E H 1 OPEN END MARCH

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

JOIN OUR CELEBRATION OF SCOTLAND'S MOST EXCITING, EMERGING TALENT

e think we might be onto something here… For years, i-on has got behind some of the best businesses in central belt Scotland. From the launch of the mag back in 2005, we’ve done our best to shout about the people who help to make the cities what they are; the cool little businesses who don’t always garner column inches but who are at the beating heart of urban Scotland. So, with this in mind, we bring you the inaugural i-on Breakthrough Awards, a celebration of emerging talent in Scotland. People living and working in Edinburgh and Glasgow who are excelling in their field; the people who i-on magazine, with its judging panel and readers, anticipate to be the names to talk about in 2018. If you’re one of them, or know somebody who is, get in touch with i-on at www.ionmagazine.co.uk/awards by noon on Sunday 14 May 2017 and let us know.

You’ll need to fill in a short application form and then a shortlist of entrants will be announced on the i-on website on 29 May 2017 and in the June issue of the magazine. After a voting period, the finalists will meet our judging panel on Thursday 24 August to give a five minute presentation before the category winners, and one overall winner, are chosen.

WANTED: PEOPLE LIVING OR WORKING IN EDINBURGH OR GLASGOW WHO HAVE BEEN EXCELLING IN THEIR FIELD FOR FIVE YEARS OR LESS THE PRIZE Winners will be announced at the i-on Breakthrough Awards winners’ party at Mansfield Traquair, Edinburgh, on Wednesday 13 September 2017 and will appear in the October issue of the magazine and online. One overall winner will be championed by i-on throughout 2018 and will receive a bespoke 12 month marketing campaign in i-on magazine and ionmagazine.co.uk worth £15,000.

TO ENTER THE I-ON BREAKTHROUGH AWARDS 2017 VISIT WWW.IONMAGAZINE.CO.UK/AWARDS BY NOON ON SUNDAY 14 MAY 2017. 12

I-ON BREAKTHROUGH AWARDS 2017

THE AWARD CATEGORIES We’ve included some examples to go with each category but this list is not exhaustive

1 CREATIVE STYLISTS

THE JUDGING PANEL Who decides..? You’ll be in good hands with this stellar cast for a judging panel. They’ll be meeting the 18 finalists, voted by i-on readers, to choose the winners of each category and one overall winner who’ll walk away with a bespoke campaign in i-on worth £15,000.

Fashion, events, pop-ups, hair and make-up artists…

2 MUSIC, ART & CULTURE

Musicians, photographers, artists, writers, comedians, actors… IN ASSOCIATION WITH PW & Partners, Edinburgh Financial Specialists

3 BLOGGERS

Online voices and journalists across interiors, food, lifestyle, travel, fashion… IN ASSOCIATION WITH LOOKLOOK

4 INDEPENDENT RETAIL

Fashion, accessories, interiors, lifestyle, artisanal, patisseries, chocolatiers…

5 DESIGN

Jewellery, fashion, interiors, technology, craft, architecture, animation… IN ASSOCIATION WITH BOCONCEPT

6 FOOD & DRINK

Chefs, baristas, mixologists, brewers, distillers, restaurateurs, products…

MICHELLE HASWELL Michelle is a graphic designer, art director and a blogging pioneer, having paved the way for Scottish blogging by being the first Scottish fashion blogger. She began her blog, Kingdom of Style, with her best friend back in 2006 and has worked with brands such as Louis Vuitton, Chloe and Comme des Garcons. Vogue magazine and the Independent recognised her as one of the most influential people in online fashion and The Guardian named her as one of the top 10 internet icons.

I-ON BREAKTHROUGH AWARDS 2017

ANNA FREEMANTLE Anna has spent the past 17 years in the fashion business, first as an internationally acclaimed model and then as producer and creative consultant to brands, government and educational institutions in Europe and Africa. A champion of local design talent, she launched The Edinburgh International Fashion Festival in 2012 to bring together innovative leaders within the fashion industry.

KESTIN HARE Kestin cut his teeth in the fashion industry in London, designing menswear for Reiss and as a freelance consultant for brands including Debenhams, Ted Baker, Burberry and Next. He was also head designer for Nigel Cabourn before moving back to his native Edinburgh in 2011 to head up menswear for Common People. He launched his own label, Kestin Hare, in 2014 and designs each collection from his new Edinburgh-based studio and flagship store in the Shore’s Custom Lane where his menswear apparel sits alongside a select edit of Made in Scotland brands.

HEAD JUDGE MICHAEL LAING OBE Michael is owner of family jeweller Laing Edinburgh with its flagship store on the city’s George Street. He also owns stores in Hampshire and Cardiff, has been Deacon of The Incorporation of Goldsmiths since 1993 and is former chairman of The Scottish Assay Office. A designer and gemmologist at heart, Michael has created many important commissions including the 1986 Commonwealth baton and was appointed as an official baton bearer for the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games. Michael is also a Business Angel investor supporting new-start companies through Archangel Investment Group.

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I-ON BREAKTHROUGH AWARDS 2017

SARAH MURRAY Sarah owns Jane Davidson in Edinburgh, one of the UK’s top women’s fashion boutiques, voted Scotland’s “Most Stylish Retailer”. Jane Davidson was founded by Sarah’s mother in 1969, is based over four floors of a Georgian townhouse in the city’s New Town and stocks a range of national and international brands, many on an exclusive basis in Scotland. Sarah is also an adviser to Atterley.com, the online retail platform for independents.

TO ENTER THE I-ON BREAKTHROUGH AWARDS 2017 or to nominate somebody you think we should know about, visit www.ionmagazine.co.uk/awards. Don’t be tardy… entries close at noon on 14 May 2017.

MARTIN WISHART One of the UK’s most highly-respected chefs, Martin Wishart’s eponymous Leith restaurant brought the first Michelin star to Edinburgh in 2001 and has kept hold of the accolade ever since. His restaurant at Cameron House Hotel earned a Michelin star in 2011 within three years of opening. An established and multi-awarded chef and restaurateur, Martin also owns The Honours brasserie, Cook School by Martin Wishart and has been a columnist for The Herald newspaper for more than a decade. He’s passionate about Scotland and Scottish produce and his achievements and reputation have helped to raise the standard of Scottish cuisine at home and abroad.

RICHARD MCLELLAND Richard has 20 years’ experience in the food and drinks industry. He hit the ground running as part of ‘The Dirty Dozen’ - a specially selected team of outsiders brought in by Diageo to launch the Smirnoff Ice brand. Headhunted by LIQUIDe in 2002, he helped to establish the energy drink Red Bull in Scotland before moving into the world of craft beer as the original sales and marketing manager for Brew Dog PLC. He is now a shareholder in Williams Bros Brewing Co and a co-founder of Drygate Brewing Co.

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EDINBURGH_lifestyle

EDINBURGH GET YOUR FREAK ON Relive your bodypoppin’ days at Breakin’ Convention at the Festival theatre on 05-06 May, featuring performances from international companies like Soweto Skeleton Movers (pictured), alongside local crews, with DJ and dance workshops, graffiti and freestyle sessions. Tickets are £16.50 from www.edtheatres.com/ breakinconvention.

WHEN ART MEETS SCIENCE This year’s Edinburgh International Science Festival from 01 to 16 April 2017 features their biggest and most ambitious arts programme to date. Highlights include the Contemporary Connections exhibition at Summerhall; interactive family fun at the National Museum of Scotland where Play On showcases digital innovation and technology; and Traverse Theatre’s new play Girl in the Machine focusing on a couple whose world is turned upside down by a mysterious new technology creeping into everyone’s phones. View the full programme at www. sciencefestival.co.uk/art-meets-science

lifestyle_EDINBURGH

Kentucky Corpse Reviver

KEEP THE KIDS BUSY THIS EASTER

JOIN THE CLUB Edinburgh’s thirst for cocktails is no secret -you can barely throw a maraschino without it landing in a Tom Collins. It can be a pricey hobby though so here’s a couple of super special mixology deals to make your boozing easier on the purse strings. Up by the Usher Hall, Dine’s swish lounge has started a monthly Cocktail Club offering three cocktails for £10 along with cameo appearances by bartenders from around the city and exclusive tasting masterclasses – book tickets at www.dineedinburgh. co.uk. Meanwhile, over in George Street, Tigerlily has launched a cocktail club every Wednesday offering a complimentary cocktail with every course ordered from the a la carte menu. Just quote ‘cocktail club’ when booking on 0131 225 5005.

IT'S ABOUT TIME Thinking of a home makeover for spring? Get yourself along to Time & Tide's chic new store on Cockburn Street which is celebrating the season with their most colourful collection yet. Think bright throws, printed cushions, vibrant accessories and even banana plants to bring a touch of tropical to your living room. 53 Cockburn Street, EH1 1BS, Tel: 0131 285 0678.

They’ll get their fairy wings at… Archerfield’s Fairy Training where budding fairies will be making potions and learning spells before receiving their very own special wand to take home…after you have been trained to Fairy standard of course. Classes cost £15 per child and are available to book every hour from 10am to 4pm on 15 and 16 April. Just call 01620 388 588. They’ll burn off some energy at… The Botanics’ Easter Trail where they’ll go in search of all the ingredients for a scrumptious chocolate bar invented by the Botanics Bunny. Every day from 01-17 April from 10am to 4pm at the Royal Botanic Garden. £2 per child, including a chocolate prize from Mackie’s of Scotland. They’ll be deadly quiet at… The Tomb: Ancient Egyptian Burial, a new exhibition at the National Museum of Scotland featuring a full-length mummy shroud uncovered from a tomb built around 1290 BC opposite the great city of Thebes. The new exhibition tells the story of this tomb across 1,000 years of use. Free entry. www.nms.ac.uk

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lifestyle_EDINBURGH

Michele Civiera’s

seats, a slice bar plus takeaway and delivery. And you’re all invited!

Edinburgh The owner of Civerinos, one of the city's favourite pizza bars, on parties, priorities and Porty beach

Next big thing in pizza? Coloured doughs. I’m not a fan but someone is going to tell you it’s a good idea. Best thing about Edinburgh? Its bar and restaurant scene is world class. Photo by Susie Lowe

Why do you live here? I grew up nearby and moved back after I’d lived in various places around the world. Now I live in Joppa with my wife, Olivia, daughter, Bella and son, Lorenzo.

Favourite pizza? One that’s been crafted with love. And preferably topped with burrata, salsiccia sausage and fennel.

How did you get involved in the restaurant industry? I started as a dishwasher when I was at school. It was just a way to pay for sneakers then but I quickly fell in love with the industry.

Edinburgh's best bits

Best part of owning your own business? Watching people enjoy something you built with your own two hands is a dream. Any new projects in the pipeline? We are opening our new spot, Civerinos Slice, on Forrest Road near the university. It’s a neighbourhood pizza bar with 80

Where do you go to escape the city? I take my motorbike to East Lothian. It’s like a different planet out there. Beautiful and peaceful. Civerinos, 5 Hunter Sq, EH1 1QW. www.civerinos.com

What’s the secret of Civerinos success? Happy staff. When the team love what they do, you can taste it in the food and feel it in the energy of the dining room. Best part of your day? Either 5am when I get up and do yoga before anyone wakes up or at 6pm when I get home and see the kids. No matter how busy work gets, I’m always there for bath and bedtime.

Worst thing about Edinburgh? The City council and the decisions they make that affect small businesses.

For dinner El Cartel Cocktails Bramble - the best parties since forever A boys' night out The Wally Dug Date night Fish and chips on Porty beach with a bottle of prosecco Pamper session BE Hot Yoga on Edina Place Best kept secret Breakfast in the City Café

Civerinos

Seacliff Beach, Eas t Lothian

EDINBURGH_lifestyle

Leith CHOOSE

Three good reasons to head towards the shore this month…

FUNNY GIRL LEITH FOR LOCALS On 29 April, the usual traders of Leith Market will be joined by Leith theatre, Leith Festival, Custom Lane, Creative Leith and more local businesses and groups. There’ll also be Kiddie Raves, Spacehopper races and live music from Newhaven Choir. Dock Pl, EH6 6LU. THREE-DAY EASTER PITT EXTRAVAGANZA Get down to the Pitt on Easter weekend for all the best street food from across Scotland joined by awesome drinks and musicians. £2 entry or £3 for the whole weekend pass. 125 Pitt St, EH6 4DE. FOUR NATIONS UNITED - SUNDOWN The Biscuit Factory hosts Tradfest on 28 April with a selection of food, performances and live music from the four corners of the globe. Tickets are £7 in advance from be-united.org.uk.

Lincolnshire lass Sheridan Smith arrives in the capital this month to reprise her role as Fanny Brice in the hit West End Show – but it’s not just on stage that the star is hilarious... On her movie role as a she-dwarf in last year's The Huntsman sequel... "I even had to go to 'dwarf' school. Can you imagine? I'd be having a serious chat with Chris Hemsworth and then catch sight of myself in a mirror, looking like an absolute knob with a huge prosthetic nose and head!" On being a tomboy... "Appearing in Legally Blonde helped me find my inner girl, although at the beginning the director was constantly telling me off for sitting like a boy, with my legs apart, while wearing a cocktail dress and heels!" On her celebrity crush... "I’m so excited to tell you that I’ve been cast as the lead girl in Fifty Shades of Grey opposite Eddie Redmayne, can’t wait to start filming!" And a little later on Twitter."In my dreams! Happy April fools twits." Funny Girl is at Edinburgh Playhouse from 18-22 April. To book tickets, Tel: 0844 871 3014 or visit www.atgtickets.com.

EDINBURGH_lifestyle Edinburgh

Glasgow

Edinburgh

Glasgow

i-on Events

Edinburgh

Fashion fans turned out in force for i-on’s sell-out style events with Topshop’s Personal Shopping team in Edinburgh and Glasgow last month. While personal shoppers Kirsty Irvine and Claire Frances talked us through the season’s wardrobe essentials, guests enjoyed complimentary cocktails, canapés and express Topshop beauty treatments before doing what they do best – shopping.

Glasgow

Delicious cocktails courtesy of The Refinery, Edinburgh

Edinburgh

tualist r The Spiri d drinks Glasgow ba an s le bb ni e provided th

ell gets style tips i-on’s Acting Editor Carrie Mitch ing team from the Topshop personal shopp

Were you at our event? Visit the website to see the full gallery and tag yourself on Facebook. www.ionmagazine.co.uk/ion-events

SPONSORED FEATURE

EDINBURGH’S HOTTEST NEW ASIAN EATERY

e’ve got a thing for Japanese cuisine in this month’s i-on so we were delighted to hear that wagamama is just about to open a brand new restaurant in the capital. Fans of the Lothian Road and Ocean Terminal venues can expect the trademark communal dining experience, but now in the heart of St Andrew Square, one of the city’s most talked about new hotspots. Inspired by the fast-paced ramen bars of Japan, wagamama is all about positive eating; feeding your soul as well as your body. That’s why they use fresh ingredients, cook with passion, and serve their food the very second it’s ready - spreading positivity from soul to bowl. Try the freshest flavours of Asia at the new wagamama on St Andrew Square from Monday 10 April.

For more information head to www.wagamama.com or follow them on social media; Facebook: www.facebook.com/wagamama Twitter: www.twitter.com/wagamama_uk Instagram: www.instagram.com/wagamama_uk

EDINBURGH_lifestyle

NOT HALF MAL Method treatment room

Amy Falconer tries the new Spring menu at Malmaison’s Chez Mal brasserie

HAVE A BEAUTY BREAK

For a special meal that won't blow the budget, this new fixed-price menu is a must-try. The chefs have taken the freshest seasonal ingredients and created a series of special dishes packed with vibrant flavours. We kicked off with a creamy, rich, cauliflower velouté which had a cheeky wee spiced onion frita in the bottom, and spring lamb Benedict which was so good we wished it was a main dish. Next up, we tried the chicken Milanese and pan-fried river trout – both packed with oh-so-fresh flavours, then we rounded the meal off with a light and tasty iced coffee and praline parfait and an incredibly gooey warm Valrhona caramel chocolate brownie. With two courses for just £19.95 or three for £24.95, we're onto a winner at the Mal. Tel: 0131 285 1478 or book online at www.malmaison.com. 1 Tower Pl, EH6 7BZ.

If you have 15 mins… Try Now by One Spa, a new salon at Sheraton Grand Edinburgh, offering express beauty treatments. To take advantage of our exclusive reader offer, see page 71 for details. Tel: 0131 221 7777, onespa.com/now If you have 150 mins… indulge in a full Ayurverdic Journey at The Method, a stunning new massage space in Stockbridge’s St Stephen Street. You’ll emerge feeling renewed, restored and rejuvenated. For a full treatment menu, visit www.themethod.life or Tel: 0131 225 4700.

ARRIVALS THESE GREAT NEW EATERIES HAVE JUST TOUCHED DOWN IN EDINBURGH... RONAQ Contemporary Indian restaurant and bar offering snacks and formal dining. 31 East Market St, EH8 8FR, Tel: 0131 558 7683. LE ROI FOU European fine dining featuring fresh Scottish ingredients with a French twist. 1 Forth St, EH1 3JX, Tel: 0131 557 9346. OTRO Modern all-day brasserie with light, fresh dishes made with local produce. 22 Coates Cres, EH3 7AF, Tel: 0131 556 0004.

Amy Macdonald’s

Glasgow The Scottish songstress on humble beginnings, her love for the city and a new album

What inspired you to become a musician? My first musical love was Michael Jackson when I was four years old. The Dangerous tour at Wembley was my first concert. I don’t remember too much of it but that was a pretty cool first gig. It was the album The Man Who by Travis that made me want to start learning guitar so I could play along with them. Then, at around 14, I just naturally started to write my own songs. If none of this had happened, what would you be doing? I’d applied to study Social Sciences at Strathclyde Uni in Glasgow but I had no idea where I'd go with that. I thought about maybe teaching, not because I particularly wanted to teach but more because of the holidays. What's been your career high? After a cancelled flight, I was late for a festival in the Netherlands. I rushed on stage and saw it was so packed, they’d had to take down the sides of the tent to squeeze every one in. When I came off stage, I was told my single, This is the Life, was number one in the Dutch charts - which explained why there were so many people there. I was so shocked, it was the first number one I’d ever had.

“

GLASGOW IS WHERE I FEEL MOST COMFORTABLE, CHILLED AND AT HOME"

lifestyle_GLASGOW

Glasgow’s best bits Gi n

Your new album Under Stars has a very upbeat sound – is that reflective of how you're feeling at the moment? It’s something I tend to do naturally but, most of time, the songs don’t really come from that positive a place. I watched a documentary on Bruce Springsteen and he was talking about how he has all these songs like Dancing in the Dark, which have an anthemic, euphoric, positive sound but, usually, he's really had to suffer to get there. That’s quite similar to a lot of my music - the songs sound happy but they mask something else. Dream On for example, sounds cheery but it’s actually about a really tough time my friend was going through.

You still live in Glasgow, have you felt pressure to move to London? Not at all. Everything’s done so remotely these days that you can be anywhere. I like maintaining a bit of normality - all my family are in Glasgow and I still have all the friends I went to school with. It’s where I feel most comfortable, chilled and at home. For a girls' night out Gin 71 Dinner with friends Topolabamba Date night Blue Dog cocktail bar Pampering Blythswood Square Hotel Shopping House of Fraser A celebratory meal Ox & Finch Walk Kelvingrove Park Fish & Chips The Blue Lagoon on Sauchiehall Street at 4am on a Sunday morning.

What do you think of the music scene in Glasgow? There are so many places supporting live music, making it easier for people to get on the ladder and start gigging. I started at the Brunswick Cellars (now The Priory) at open mic nights. What's the one thing you’d change about the city? I think people talk it down a bit too much. I’ve travelled to so many cities and I’m always happy to come home. We have the best of both worlds here - it’s a really vibrant city but it’s not so big that it takes over. You can live in the suburbs and still be close to the heart of the city. Amy's new album Under Stars is out now and her European tour arrives at Edinburgh's Usher Hall on 05 April; www.amymacdonald.co.uk.

GLASGOW_lifestyle

GLASGOW On the Radar Mezze at the Rotunda

QUICK! If you move fast enough, there's just about enough time to snap up tickets to see pocket rocket Bruno Mars at the SSE Hydro this month. His 24K Magic World tour lands in Glasgow on 12 and 13 April promising more funk and swagger than you can handle. Visit www.ticketmaster.co.uk NOW. Spring’s delivering plenty of fresh new shoots for Glasgow’s ever-growing restaurant scene. Taking centre stage in Finnieston currently is Six by Nico, a new concept where chef Nico Simone and his team present a new six-course tasting menu every six weeks, each based on a different place, memory or idea. Ambitious for sure, but one way to keep diners coming back for more. Another place sure to find its fair share of regulars is the soon to open The Beer Kitchen by Innis & Gunn. Based in the former Cul-de-Sac site on Ashton Lane, this flagship venue will be spread over three floors and is the first permanent move west for the Edinburghbased brewers. Other new openings include The Smokin’ Fox, a ‘pub & scullery’ on Waterloo Street that serves an amazing mac ’n’ cheese, and Mezze, a Mediterranean eatery at the Rotunda which boasts an indoor rooftop bar offering great views across the Clyde. Here’s hoping we can order some sunshine with our retsina.

YES CHEF! Hungry for more from MasterChef: The Professionals winner Gary MacLean? You’re in luck as the Glasgow chef-lecturer is hosting pop-ups on 20 and 21 April at A’Challtainn Fish Restaurant & Bar at the Barras Art & Design (BAaD) centre. Diners will enjoy a four course menu created by Gary, with paired drinks. For added entertainment, each dish will be demonstrated by Gary and shown live on screen in the BAaD courtyard. Tickets £135pp from www.baadglasgow.com.

lifestyle_GLASGOW

MY STYLE, MY WAY Glasgow fashion blogger Peter Gemmell on his own sartorial leanings

“

I USED TO SPRAY PAINT MY TRAINERS AND DOODLE ON MY HOODIES”

I love wearing unique tailored items, which I accessorise with a flash of colour. I’m a huge believer in being individual and won’t buy an item if I see too many people wearing it. I’ve always been interested in fashion but it gained momentum when I attended Edinburgh College of Art. I used to spray paint my trainers and doodle on my hoodies to add my own stamp.

Award-Winning Chinese Restaurant

I’m not an impulsive shopper. I always research what I'm after as the items have to be a reflection of my style and personality. My favourite new discovery is a contemporary menswear brand called Wax London. They are British made, understated and incorporate sleek Scandinavian designs. I’m lusting after a pair of YSL Wyatt suede Chelsea boots. You could wear them at almost any occasion, just pick the 30 heel instead of the 40 - unless you are into Cuban dancing. Follow Peter on Instagram @thegentlemanselect or visit the blog at www.thegentlemanselect.com.

59 Mitchell Street, Glasgow, G1 3LN T: 0141 248 2240 | E: enquiries@lycheeoriental.co.uk Twitter: @LycheeOriental | Facebook: Lychee Oriental www.lycheeoriental.co.uk

GLASGOW_lifestyle

Frida Skinner, winner of the Woma n of Influence ‘Community Award ’

Out & About

photos Victoria Stewart

Action for Children Scotland ‘Wom an of Influence’ award winner Judy Murra y

i-on was once again proud to support the 17th annual Women of Influence Awards on 19 March in aid of Action for Children Scotland, which raised over £70K for the charity. Hosted by TV presenter Cat Cubie, the lunch took place at The Grand Central Hotel. Judy Murray was the recipient of the Woman of Influence Award, recognised for her success in the world of sport as well as her commitment to encouraging young people, particularly girls, to live healthier and more active lifestyles. A special Woman of Influence Community Award was given to 11-year-old carer Frida Skinner, who has transformed her life as a result of the support received from Action for Children Scotland.

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GLASGOW_lifestyle

IRan family FAcle IT’SkinAgFAforMIsomLYe AF d, goo Loo d it... fun? Here’s five ways to fin

Flip Out

DIGITAL DANCE In the ‘world’s first digital dance season’, Scottish Ballet take dance beyond the traditional confines of the stage. Under The Skin, presents a series of short films released online throughout April, live streaming events and a digital art installation at the Tramway. www.scottishballet.co.uk

Aerial Edge

Get yourself to Bellahouston Park on 30 April for Bubble Rush, a 5K with a difference; participants are blasted with colourful foam, courtesy of highpowered bubble machines. It’s open to all ages and funds go directly to The Prince and Princess of Wales Hospice. www.bubblerush.co.uk If you need time to yourself, pack your children 2 off to join the circus – Aerial Edge’s Easter Circus School takes place at The Briggait on 12 and 13 April, where kids aged 7-16 can learn trapeze, silks and acrobatics. www.aerialedge.co.uk Creative 5-8 year olds will love EASTER 3 ARTScool!, a three day workshop at House for an Art Lover where they will design, build and decorate a wooden bird box, make Easter inspired cards and dye eggs. www.houseforanartlover.co.uk Glasgow Sci-Fi, Cosplay & Comic Con is a new 4 convention at the Barrowlands on 08 and 09 April. Guests include Star Wars’ Spencer Wilding and Norman Lovett from Red Dwarf. www.glasgowscc.co.uk Get your bounce back at the biggest trampoline 5 arena in the world, which opens in Rutherglen on 10 April. Flip Out has a massive 63,000 sq ft of trampolines, plus a soft play area, dodgeball court, basketball lanes and a football pitch so there's something for everyone. www.flipout.co.uk

BEYOND BEAUTY Two new hi-tech facial treatments have come to Glasgow – and neither involves chemical substances. The ‘vampire facial’, or PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) therapy rejuvenates skin by using plasma taken from – wait for it – your own blood. A small sample is drawn, from which the plasma and platelets are isolated and then reinjected into your face using a micro roller system. Surely you can’t get much more natural than your own blood?... To find out more, email info@epibrow.com. Exclusive in the UK to Dr Darren McKeown’s West George Street clinic, the non-surgical face lift Profound uses needles to deliver radio frequency energy to your skin, and is clinically proven to stimulate the production of elastin and collagen. Dr McKeown explains: “Profound is a quick, one-off treatment which improves elasticity. The full procedure takes around one hour and we use local anesthetic to make the treatment painless.” www.drdarrenmckeown.com.

FEATURES

merry MAKING

From chairs and chinos to rockets and robots, Scots are getting more creative than ever before

rom British Bake Off to Pinterest, we’re a nation of do’ers again for the first time since the Make-do & Mend campaign of WW2. Back then, it was designed to keep the family and the home frugal and stylish during harsh spells of war-era rationing. But swap the word ‘rationing’ for ‘sustainability’ now and the messages to reduce, reuse and recycle are just as relevant today. You need look no further than Pinterest and Etsy to know that people are starting to reject ‘fast fashion’ and ‘disposable furniture’ in favour of making, fixing and recycling their own. It makes sense too, who wouldn’t want their own custom-made clothes or bespoke furniture? Combine this need to 'create' with the huge advances of modern manufacturing technology and the possibilities become limitless. To match demand, there’s been an explosion in classes, workshops, facilities and events for people keen to learn how to make, refurbish, upcycle, and innovate. This month, the best of the bunch gets together on Easter Sunday at the Mini Maker Faire as part of Edinburgh's International Science Festival. The family-friendly showcase of invention, creativity and resourcefulness will feature demonstrations and interactive exhibits from local makers such as Edinburgh Hacklab (www.edinburghhacklab.com) and MAKLab (www.maklab.co.uk), which started out in Glasgow in 2012. MAKLab now operates a network of studios across Scotland giving local makers and businesses access to new skills, workshop space and cutting edge equipment. Alongside 3D printing, digital embroidery and laser

FEATURES

cutting workshops, members can learn more traditional skills such as soldering, book binding and general repair. “We aim to bring new technologies and innovative resources to people from all backgrounds and industries, to provide them with the tools they need to feel empowered to achieve," says CEO Richard Clifford. This desire to empower and educate is shared by Sophie Unwin, the founder of Edinburgh Remakery (www. edinburghremakery.org.uk), another organisation appearing at the faire. "I was inspired by several different experiences," explains Sophie, "one of these was living for a year in a remote community in Nepal where we repaired and reused everything. Coming back to the UK, I was shocked at how much stuff we throw away and consume without thinking about where it comes from or where it goes to. Closer to home, when I was living in Brixton, I was frustrated by seeing people who had useful skills (like fixing bikes) not finding a way to make a living. I thought that there was potential for building a new economy around repair education, so I started researching reuse and repair projects in Belgium, Italy and the States." Based on Leith Walk, Edinburgh Remakery offers workspace as well as retail

Mini Maker Faire, photo by ChrisScott

Edinburgh Remakery

"THERE’S BEEN AN EXPLOSION IN CLASSES, WORKSHOPS, FACILITIES AND EVENTS FOR PEOPLE KEEN TO LEARN HOW TO MAKE, REFURBISH, UPCYCLE, AND INNOVATE"

opportunities for members to sell their wares. There are classes and workshops for everything from sewing to electronics, upcycling to upholstery, and demand continues to grow, even outwith the city. "We've had enquiries from all over the UK from people interested in setting up Remakeries in their own communities everywhere from Mull to Kent." Another local charity who have been staggered by the demand for their

FEATURES

Design Icon no.1 How a tennis ball became a chair

Imola chair from, £1,779

FEATURES

"THE MAKER MOVEMENT – AS WELL AS BEING GOOD FOR THE ENVIRONMENT, IT'S GOOD FOR THE SOUL”

service is Edinburgh Tool Library (www. edinburghtoollibrary.org.uk) founded by Chris Hellawell in 2015. "We've quickly expanded from operating four hours a week from a police box, to running from three different locations, and earlier this year opened our first open access workshop," says Chris. He originally started ETL to save people from having to buy their own tools for DIY, decorating and gardening. Instead, he wanted to encourage people to share - "it's a much more sustainable way to live than consumption," he points out. "But it has also become about more than sharing tools. It's a real community - a place for people to meet, integrate, and build bonds as well as 'things'. Last night we had an open session with three Syrians, an Italian, a Spaniard, and three Scottish people, learning from and with each other." And that's perhaps the most inspiring thing about the maker movement – as well as being good for the environment, it's good for the soul. "There is something very therapeutic about working with your hands," says Chris, "and, so far, I don't think anyone has invented an app that has restorative powers on your soul!" Edinburgh Mini Maker Faire takes place on Sunday 16 April at Summerhall. Entry is £6. For a full programme of the events and exhibitors appearing or to buy tickets, visit www.edinburgh.makerfaire.com

Edinburgh Tool Library

Edinburgh Remakery

FEATURES

TRANSFORM YOUR SPACE WITH OUTSIDE THE BOX THINKING

Award-winning architect Gillian Hanley specialises in making ordinary spaces exceptional. With a dedicated team of specialists, Crew Architects bring visionary design to life.

Crew Architects Tectonica 7 Lower Gilmore Bank Edinburgh EH12 5HT T: 01312299280 www.crewarchitects.com

HE SAYS, SHE SAYS

Two fitness-phobes on their reluctant attempts at getting in shape

Jo Morris resolves to get on her bike…

“A

s a pathologically greedy person who loves food, being pregnant was basically a win win for me- eat what you want whilst growing a baby. Perfect. And the best bit is that you lose it all when you breast feed. Except you don’t. Three years later I was still carrying that baby weight (or more accurately cake, pasta and wine weight…) I was a bit of a fatty to be honest. And I didn’t like it one bit. With achy knees and size 16 clothes, I pictured myself in seven years hobbling along in shapeless tops trying to keep up with my 10 year old son. So I had a word with myself. Diet was not that word. I have never done them and frankly the idea just depresses me. Instead I’ve channeled something a bit more fun: me as a kid. Remember how you’d spend hours playing, running, riding? I loved my bicycle but haven’t had a decent one for

“WITH ACHY KNEES AND SIZE 16 CLOTHES, I PICTURED MYSELF HOBBLING ALONG IN SHAPELESS TOPS TRYING TO KEEP UP WITH MY 10 YEAR-OLD SON” 20 years. So I bought one, downloaded a cycling app and within two months, I was doing 12 miles per ride, burning off 800 calories. My bike and I are best pals again. There are a few other changes too. I’ve swapped the supermarket meal deal lunch (800 calories) for my favourite meal as a child: beans on toast (300 calories). I’ve stopped treating the evening meal as a big treat after a busy day. I don’t count calories or weigh out portions but follow some common sense rules that can best be summarised as less pasta more pulses, Champagne not beer, fruit rather than chocolate. And it’s

working. I bought some scales to measure progress and slowly but very surely, I’m losing weight. I still eat out, drink and make merry but I don’t feel like I’ve given up on anything and some five months after embarking on my plan I’m a stone and a half lighter. I’m fitter, trimmer and feel like I’ve found a way for me to sustain a healthy weight and, more importantly, a fitter future.

OPINION

Grant Stott on his flirtation with fitness…

“H

ey big man! Have you been working out?” – this is a greeting I’ve never been fortunate to receive from anyone – nor am I ever likely to. Anyone who knows me at all will know that The Gym and I have never been compatible bed buddies. Over the years the two of us have tried to get it together a couple of times, we’ve been known to flirt outrageously

with each other with the promise of everlasting commitment but we rarely get past first base. Don’t get me wrong I’ve tried. If there was a dating app that put me and The Gym together, I daresay we’d be swiping each other in the right direction and rushing into a crazy full on few days of sets, press ups and hot showers, but I know it would just fizzle out before too long. Every year starts the same, I look at my wee pot belly (all bought and paid for) and have a feel of my jowly bits under my chin, pull them back to try and catch a glimpse of what I’d look like if I was just a tad less bawfaced, and say, “Stottie, THIS is the year”. But it never amounts to anything. A few years ago, I was given a golden opportunity. A brand new gym opened up near Radio Forth where I was working at the time, and the manager got in touch and offered me six months membership - free. What better incentive did I need? I began with great gusto, took my

Photography: Susie Lowe, Steven Todd, Flare Photography UK

“EVERY YEAR STARTS THE SAME, I LOOK AT MY WEE POT BELLY AND SAY, “STOTTIE, THIS IS THE YEAR” kit in, got my own dedicated locker and got my perfect programme sorted. All I had to do was go. First week was great – three visits!! Second week, I missed one day as I was “busy”…third week, I didn’t manage at all, went back on week four, feeling guilty I’d missed week three and that was pretty much that. I got so embarrassed about my absence I didn’t even go back and collect my trainers, deodorant and headphones from my locker. I basically ghosted The Gym. It’s probably for the best. We’re just not meant to be. Grant Stott’s hit show, Tales From Behind The Mic, is on tour round Scotland until May 2017. For tickets to his performance on 07 May at Edinburgh’s Kings Theatre, visit www.edtheatres.com/grantstott

FEATURES

A new guard is bringing Edinburgh’s oldest bespoke tailors into the modern age model Simone Murphy photography Laura Meek stylist Vixy Rae location Prestonfield House

FASHION

Tweed Cricket Shorts £145, Stewart Christie & Co. Shirt, Elaine’s Vintage. Shooting Socks, £38, House of Cheviot

or over 300 years, Stewart Christie & Co has been the capital’s number one destination for gentlemen seeking a quality, custom-made suit. But, with a new team at the helm, the heritage brand is attracting a younger, more style-savvy customer, and more women than ever before. When designer Vixy Rae and business partners, Dan Fearn and David Bassett, took over the business 18 months ago, they knew they had a fine line to tread. Previous owner Duncan Lowe had helmed the family business for 44 years and wasn’t about to hand it over to just anyone. “It was more like a job interview in the early stages,” says Vixy Rae, who formerly owned Glasgow streetwear store Dr Jives and Edinburgh boutique Odd One Out. “Being four generations in his family, Mr Lowe felt a responsibility to hand the business on to a new generation who would respect its traditions and ensure it would be around in another 300 years. “We believed Stewart Christie had the potential to become a brand in its own right. It was a proud company with heritage and principals but it needed to enter a new market sector. Change was required but not change for change’s sake.” So how exactly do you bring an old school tailor still functioning on the principals it started out with over three centuries ago into the modern age? Gently, says Vixy. “There is always a resistance to change and when we first took over, we learnt very quickly that many of our ideas could potentially be met with opposition. With that in mind, we have been careful to enhance rather than replace.” Indeed, walking through the doors of the Queen Street store, you’d be forgiven for thinking that nothing had been altered but

FEATURES

Cluny Coat £695, Stewart Christie & Co. Velvet Trousers £90, Brax. Chamomile Shirt £79, Dubarry

“I’M READY TO STOKE THE FIRE AND MAKE IT A WELCOMING EXPERIENCE FOR THE YOUNGER GENERATION. AND IF THEY ARE NOT READY YET, I’LL BE THERE WHEN THEY COME OF AGE...”

FASHION

in fact, where once you would have seen a dated gentleman’s outfitters harking back to the 1970s; now you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time to a quality tailors of the 1870s – which is of course exactly what Stewart Christie & Co is. “I want people to have a quality shopping experience, away from the fast fashion high street chaos,” explains Vixy. “I’m ready to stoke the fire and make it a welcoming experience for the younger generation. From skate trainers to brogues, and jeans to trews just seems like a natural progression for me. And if they are not ready yet, I'll be there when they come of age...” But it is welcoming women to the fold that is an even more personal ambition for Vixy. “Ladieswear existed at Stewart Christie, but it was a very small part of the business, mostly hidden away in an uninviting corner of the basement,” she says. “With my history in fashion design, it seemed logical to start a brand new department exclusively for ladies and across a whole floor of the shop.” “Our ideas all stem from classic styles with a contemporary twist,” explains Vixy, “and the ladieswear is a combination of stylish unstructured cuts, and traditional tailored pieces.” There are tweed overcoats, belted culottes, and '40s inspired ‘oxford bags’ with a high waisted, wide legged cut - a look that is coming back on the catwalks right now.

Hermitage High Waisted Trousers £195, Stewart Christie & Co. Shirt, Elaine’s Vintage

“OUR IDEAS ALL STEM FROM CLASSIC STYLES WITH A CONTEMPORARY TWIST”

FASHION

There's also some pretty nifty tartan capri pants which were designed to be a feminine and faithful echo of men's tartan trews. “I’m currently working on a lightweight puppy tooth tweed jumpsuit, which I definitely intend to give a trial run myself,”says Vixy. It’s this personal approach that makes Vixy’s designs - and her plans for Stewart Christie – really exciting. “From the age of 23, when I opened my first streetwear shop, I've always preferred independent brands and non-mass produced clothing but most of all a ‘one to one’ approach with my customers,” she explains. “At Stewart Christie, everything can be bought offthe-peg or made-to-measure, and the fabric, fit and detailing can all be customized to create a truly personal and unique garment. It’s clothing for anyone who understands that quality, authenticity and craftsmanship should be supported and nurtured; and who believe the story behind the clothes is as important as the garments themselves.” So for anyone who was concerned about a team of young pretenders stomping all over the traditions of Scotland’s oldest tailor, it seems they have nothing to worry about. The future of Stewart Christie is in very safe hands.

Inverleith Cape £345, Stewart Christie & Co

Bellevue Coat , £625, Stewart Christie & Co

Stewart Christie & Co Ltd, 63 Queen St, EH2 4NA, Tel: 0131 225 6639, www.stewartchristie. com.To make an appointment for any tailoring requests in the Edinburgh store, email info@stewartchristie.com.

THE BROGUE TRADER

hris Macnamara, owner of no less than 200 pairs of shoes, decided to turn his passion for British-made men’s shoes into a business and so in 2013, The Brogue Trader was born. Stocking only the finest shoe brands the UK has to offer, the Cardiff store was an immediate success. In December he turned his attention to the style savvy shoppers of Edinburgh, forming a partnership with the classic shoemaker Loake to open a brand new store on Frederick Street. We caught up with him to discuss celebrity style icons and old fashioned values.

“

THERE’S ALWAYS A COLD BEER, STRONG ESPRESSO OR STIFF WHISKY AWAITING OUR CUSTOMERS"

Why did you choose to team up with Loake? It’s an incredible brand with real heritage; it’s one of only two British shoe brands still owned by its original founding family. They approached me to open a chain of retail stores on a partnership basis - my stores, their shoes - and it’s working well. How would you describe a shopping experience at Loake? We believe in old fashioned values and our customers appreciate that. They love the fact we fit, measure and offer refreshments - there’s always a cold beer, strong espresso or stiff whisky awaiting our customers. It’s a proper old school shopping experience that’s more akin to buying an expensive Swiss watch or a German car than just a pair of shoes. Why is it so important to invest in good quality shoes? Society today has become used to everything being transactional, lowest or best price but I believe the sweet taste of a low price is overshadowed by the bitterness of poor quality. As the old saying goes, ‘Buy cheap, buy twice’.

Chris Macnamara, pictured left with son Keiron, Brogue Trader Operations Director

SPONSORED FEATURE

What makes Loake shoes stand out? Good quality shoes of a Goodyear welted construction, like those from Loake, can be fully rebuilt from scratch again and again, and look like new for a fraction of the original cost, hence they’re better value for money in the long term. If you look after them, they can last 20 plus years. Why is it important to have your feet measured by an expert? A problem I see time and again is men wearing the incorrect size. They may have wide feet but they don’t wear wide fitting shoes. They end up going up one or two sizes just to get the right width but

What are your top five tips for looking after brogues? 1. Pop in cedar wood shoe trees as soon as you take off your shoes. 2. Polish your shoes regularly to nourish the leather. 3. Protect with a protector spray and brush your suede shoes often. 4. Never wear the same pair of shoes two days running, rotate with others so they can air. 5. Store your shoes in a cool, dry place away from external heat or mould sources.

then the shoes are far too long. To solve this issue, our shoes come in half sizes and, in many cases, in different width fittings. How do you wear yours? I personally think brogues look fab with anything, but they’re all very different and you need to wear the right type with the right outfit. For example, I wear a single sole Oxford punch cap with a suit as it looks very business-like and elegant but I’d wear a triple leather sole winged mahogany brogue with turned up jeans and a waistcoat. Who are your celebrity style icons? Back in the day when he was playing Bond, I think Sean Connery was very dapper - I like that whole fitted suit look. These days, I think David Beckam looks pretty sharp. To find out more about The Brogue Trader head online to www.thebroguetrader.com. Loake, 18a Frederick St, Edinburgh, EH2 2HB, Tel: 0131 226 5444, www.loake.co.uk

SPRING STYLE UPDATE

Fashion experts reveal the season’s key looks and how to wear them

Black vinyl Jamie jeans, £55, Topshop

T-Shirt, £9.99, H&M Black trench coat, £115, Topshop

VINYL “Vinyl can seem daring and bold and many don't think it’s an easy material to wear, but styled with softer textures and colours it can give any outfit the perfect amount of edge. The vinyl skinny elevates a simple slouchy jumper to give a high fashion edge to a casual outfit. Alternatively team with a stiletto heel and tucked in tee for an effortless evening look." Claire Cunningham, Topshop Personal Shopper

Red vinyl Jamie jeans, £55,Topshop

Adidas Originals Stan Smith trainers, £90, Littlewoods.com

Silver stilettos, £69.99, Zara Striped sweater, £39, La Redoute

FASHION

Ellis America beige jacket, £135, House of Fraser

Top, £25.99, Zara

Dress, £55, Principles by Ben De Lisi at Debenhams Folk sweater in silver grey, £135, Frontiers Man Universal Works, available at Frontiers Man

Shoes, £49.99, H&M

Trousers, £29.99, Zara

Top, £36, Jacket, £65, Trousers, £38, all Principles by Ben De Lisi at Debenhams

Lily II bracelet, £550, Hamilton & Inches

Leather jacket, £179, La Redoute

Penfield geometric shirt, £65, Frontiers Man

Pink wide leg culottes £22.99, New Look

NEW NEUTRALS

BLUSH PINK

“The 2017 colour trend for neutral tones like stone, olive green and ecru definitely applies as much to fashion this season as it does to interiors and design. This Spring/Summer, wear a neutral base (most men have wardrobes full of navy, black and grey), but add in bits of geometric pattern, distinctive prints and multi stripes.” Nigel Pashley, Owner Frontiers Man

“The hottest colour to be seen in this season is pink. Make a statement in coordinating tailored separates in the same shade or go for a simple shift dress in a geometric print for easy sophistication.” Ben de Lisi, Designers at Debenhams

Mules, £30, River Island

FASHION

Yellow Autograph floral top, £45, Marks & Spencer PS By Paul Smith available at Harvey Nichols

Blazer, £155, Whistles

Cotton and linen blend shirt, £125, PS By Paul Smith

Solid Homme wool blend trousers, £286, Harvey Nichols

Jacket £445, Sportmax Code. Top, £210, trousers, £155 both Max Mara Weekend. Bag £40, Therapy London, all at House of Fraser

Leaf print culottes, £35, Therapy London at House of Fraser

Embroidered tassel clutch, £50, Next

Hi tops, £55, Vans Yellow mules, £32, Next

AMI striped top, £115, Harvey Nichols

ORIENTAL SOFT TAILORING “This is about finding the confidence to approach a softer, more relaxed way of dressing. Bold prints and masculine pinstripes are combined with languid silhouettes and lightweight fabrics to bring a softness and ease to street style looks, as guys look for alternatives to tailoring and sportswear.” Benn McGregor, Senior Menswear Buyer Harvey Nichols

Dress, £55, Marks & Spencer

“Inspired by Japanese style prints, unstructured shapes and Victorian dressing, West meets East this season. Think mandarin collars, silk robe shapes, and floral peasant dresses. Statement pieces balance colours, patterns and geometric prints.” Phoebe Horner, House of Fraser’s Brand Styling Manager

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LUXURY FASHION BRANDS THE DEFINITION OF LUXURY SHOPPING

BOSS The large check pattern of this Novan3/Ben men’s suit by BOSS is sure to catch the eye. The two-button jacket and matching trousers of extra fine new-wool feature precise darts to optimise the narrow fit, giving this suit a stylish, modern edge. £500.

HARVEY NICHOLS Rather than follow transient trends, opt for a contemporary twist on a timeless classic with this floral print jersey shirt from AMI, available exclusively at Harvey Nichols Edinburgh for £130. It’s the perfect way to inject some colour into your wardrobe.

SWAROVSKI Combining bold texture and brilliant hues, the SWAROVSKI Crystaldust bangles have been created using the innovative Crystal Rocks technique, exclusive to SWAROVSKI. Layer them up or let one shine solo for a one-ofa-kind look. Prices from £59. SASSOON SALON Looking for a new season hair refresh? Sassoon salon has added two new looks to its Blow & Style menu. Our favourite is the Rope Pony - inspired by the catwalks, this sleek and contemporary style will take you from day to night. From £35.

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FASHION

Oakland hoodie, £28; swim shorts, £20; trainers, £28; all River Island

Hoodie, £25.99, Zara

Pink Autograph Dress, £65, Bag, £27.50, both Marks and Spencer

Tassel drop earrings, £15, Marks and Spencer

Yellow Autograph dress, £55, Marks and Spencer

Green top, £36, Topshop T-shirt, £19.99, Zara Cody jeans, £45, River Island

Skirt, £49, H&M

Shoes, £35, Dorothy Perkins Universal Works Canvas Hitops, £75, Frontiers Man

CALIFORNIA GRUNGE

BRIGHTS

“Contemporary grunge is about combining vintage with new age surf and skate. The key to pulling this look off is authenticity. Avoid going overboard: rips on hoodies or a check shirt can look great, but team that with ripped jeans too and you’ll look like you’ve been put through a blender. Ditch those super skinnies for loose fit denim. Wider leg jeans, boxy hoodies, and loose shirts are the way forward.” Giles Farnham, Head of River Island Style Studio

“What better way to update a spring wardrobe than with a bright pop of colour? Celebrate vibrancy and femininity with flamboyant colour and vivid floral highlights that you can easily work into your spring looks.” Queralt Ferrer, Marks and Spencer’s Design Director

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Mix it up

Emily Murray, of interior blog The Pink House presents the five interior colour rules you should (nearly) always break

ONLY TWO COLOURS PER SCHEME “Once you have found two colours that go well together it can be tempting to leave it at that - and there’s nothing wrong with this approach,” explains Jessica Buckley from Jessica Buckley Interiors. “However, by introducing a third – or fourth – colour, the room will develop more of a personality. In the case of a blue-andwhite scheme, for example, you could add bright pink, red or emerald green.”

Design by 2 Lovely Gays photo by Megan Taylor

pring is finally here, and for many of us it’s an excuse to freshen up our homes with a lick of paint. But the question is: which colour? Choosing a colour scheme can be seriously stressful. After all, there’s no limit to the options if you’re prepared to mix your own. And even if you narrow down the choice by selecting from a paint chart, you still have hundreds of hues to choose

from. This overwhelming choice is one of the main reasons so many of us stick to white walls or revert to colour ‘rules’ when it comes to interior décor. Problem is, so many of these rules are not only confusing, they’re downright wrong, and following them can mean missing out on a stylish, inviting home. So in the spirit of rebellion, here are my five colour rules worth breaking – and why it pays to be naughty…

INTERIORS

The Pink House, photo by Susie Lowe

WOODWORK SHOULD CONTRAST WITH WALLS The traditional style of painting skirting is to use white gloss paint. A more modern approach is to continue your wall colour through to your skirting, and, if you’re in a period property, your picture rail and cornicing too. “Painting the woodwork in the same colour as the walls is a good trick for keeping things looking streamlined and unfussy - this is particularly useful in smaller rooms or if you have a room with lots of doors or window frames,” says Jessica.

Design by 2 Lovely Gays, photo by Megan Taylor

PINK IS FOR GIRLS’ ROOMS This is a colour rule entirely conceived by marketing departments – in fact, in Victorian times pink was seen as being more of a ‘boy’s’ colour, as it is the paler form of ‘manly’ red. “Don't even get us started on this one!” exclaims Russell Whitehead, interior designer from 2 Lovely Gays. “Why are people obsessed with gendering colour? It makes no sense - it's a modern invention. Pink makes the most stunning backdrop for other colours. We often use it as a new twist on neutral.”

INTERIORS

CEILINGS MUST BE WHITE “Paint the ceiling the same colours as the walls,” explains interior designer Lee Broom. “Nobody ever wants to, but in fact it makes the room feel bigger, instead of marking the space between walls and ceiling by having them in different shades.” Russell agrees: “We love to paint with colour or even wallpaper ceilings like this hallway decorated with our own wallpaper design for Graham and Brown. It can create such a wonderful vibe in a space.” BLUE AND GREEN SHOULD NEVER BE SEEN It’s amazing how many people still think this is a hard-and-fast interior design rule. But in the colour combo’s defense, I give you three little words: trees, sky, sea. If it’s good enough for Mother Nature… “I think the historical reason for this rule is because blue and green are similar in tone and need to be broken up a bit with some contrast,” says

Design by 2 Lovely Gays, photo by Megan Taylor

Design by Jessica Buckley Interiors

“WE LOVE TO PAINT WITH COLOUR OR EVEN WALLPAPER CEILINGS BECAUSE IT CAN CREATE SUCH A WONDERFUL VIBE IN A SPACE”

Jessica. “I adore blue and green together - particularly with large doses of white (for the aforementioned contrast) and then adding in another colour such as pink or yellow.” So what are you waiting for? Pick up that paintbrush and get rule breaking! For more colour tips and interior inspo, visit The Pink House on www.pinkhouse.co.uk or on Instagram @pinkhouseliving

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INTERIORS

Cactus vase, £39, notanotherbill.com Smash rug, £979, BoConcept

Boskke sky planter, £14.86, einrichtendesign.de

Artichoke ceramic tea light holder, £12, tch.net

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Brighten up your home this Spring with a touch of vivid green – Pantone’s colour of the year for 2017

Frame armchair, £599, Made.com

Harper sofa, £810, livingitup.co.uk

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Axle printed circle cushion, £20, Made.com

Vienna marble top side table, £69, Time & Tide

Ladder planter stand, £65, Sterling Furniture

Super soft merino throw, £124, tollymcrae.co.uk

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SMART MUM, SMART DAD,

SMART HOME

Seven ways a smart home can make new parents’ lives easier

ate nights, lack of sleep, the shock of having to attend to the whims of a beautiful yet demanding new baby all mean that becoming a parent can feel like hard work. But with the addition of some smart technology, looking after the baby just got a little bit easier. We asked IntellientHomes.Today for their top recommendations… Automatically dim the lights - For those late night feeds, you can dim your bedroom, hallway and nursery lights automatically with the help of Philips Hue lighting so you and baby are not jarred awake by bright lights.

Keep warm and stay cool - Studies show the most 2 comfortable temperature for babies is 21oC. Help maintain a consistent temperature throughout your home with a smart heating control from Nest, Hive or Honeywell Evohome. Stay secure - Wireless sensors can detect if any windows have been opened and send an alert direct to your phone. These cost around £50 per window.

Keep an eye on things - A nursery camera such as the Nest Cam lets you to check in and even speak to the little one from another room via your smart phone.

Keep them amused - Smart plugs allow you to turn on lamps, a white noise machine or mobiles wirelessly from your phone. The Aeotec plug also has an LED light to let you know it's on.

Help when your hands are full - When you’re busy feeding the baby, just ask your smart home to turn up the lights, play some music, read audiobooks or change the heating. The Amazon Echo costs £160.

Remind you when it's time for a feed - Set a voice reminder on your Amazon Echo Dot so you can stick to your routine - even when you’re half asleep.

IntelligentHome.Today can supply, install and program entire systems for you, start to finish in a single day, without any mess or fuss. Murrayburgh House, 17 Corstorphine Rd, Edinburgh, EH12 6DD, Tel: 0131 510 1250, Web: intelligenthome.today

INTERIORS

How to... Live Lagom Forget hygge, there’s a new Scandi lifestyle trend on the block

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CONSERVE ENERGY Simple swaps such as using LED bulbs will save power. Why not add a warming and cosy hued bulb and brighten up rooms that lack natural light?

SAVE WATER It’s easy to lose track of time in the shower. Consider getting a bathroom timer to help in reducing your energy bills and water consumption.

INTERIORS

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INTERIORS

EAT UP Use airtight containers to keep food fresher for longer; cutting wastage and unnecessary spending in supermarkets. We all know how much shopping can end up thrown away.

CLEAR OUT Declutter messy areas around the home and invest in proper storage solutions to save waste, limit duplicated purchases and highlight unwanted goods for recycling.

COVER UP Seek out some high-quality blankets or throws to keep you warm and snug whilst reducing heating costs.

6 GO GREEN Systems for growing your own plants are perfect for city living, they enable us to create produce from the comfort of the kitchen countertop.

GET COSY Cover up areas prone to draughts using rugs and thick curtains, avoiding the need to heat rooms and creating a cosy feeling at the same time.

SWITCH OFF Use a central plug board for all electronic equipment that can switch off with the touch of a button at the end of each day. It’ll make energy management that bit easier.

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Bicester Farmshop

WEEKENDER

THE ULTIMATE SPRING SHOPPING TRIP Emily Murray finally finds a stress-free way to update her wardrobe

o it’s that time of year again – the crocuses have barely bloomed and we’re expected to shed our sleeping bag-esque outerwear to reveal bright new plumage. Problem is, as per every year, I have nothing to wear; time for the annual shop. As usual, I was torn between bulk-buying on Princes’ Street vs a couple of key designer pieces from Harvey Nics. Then one bright morning a timely email arrived announcing Firmdale Hotels’ new Bicester Village

shopping package. I knew Firmdale, the super-stylish hotel group that owns some of my all-time favourite London abodes (Ham Yard; Soho; Charlotte Street), but I’d never visited their delightful Kit Kemp-designed Dorset Square Hotel in Marylebone and I’d never been to Bicester, the designer outlet in Oxfordshire. A short hour-and-a-quarter flight later, I landed in London, before heading directly to Dorset Square. A sumptuous night’s sleep in my room with its lovely garden

TRAVEL

Dorset Square Hotel exterior and bedrooms

view and embroidered headboard then I jumped on the train from Marylebone Station to Bicester Village, a direct, peaceful journey lasting around 45 minutes. On arrival at Bicester Village station, I was ushered to a glamorous lounge and handed my 10 per cent discount card, which comes as part of the package and works on top of most existing discounts (all items at Bicester must be at least 30 per cent off full price, but they’re often way cheaper). A few minutes’ walk and I was in the heart of the pretty shopping village – all pristine pavements and immaculate boutiques. The knowledgeable stylist in the VIP room (again, VIP access comes as part of the package) tipped me off about a remaining pair of pink fluffy pom-pom shoes at Furla. I bought them immediately, along with a pink silk scarf so cheap it was practically free. A few more ridiculously underpriced items from Stella McCartney and Anya Hindmarch later (I gave myself a budget of £500 and ended up with a high-street-sized

designer haul) and I was hungry for lunch – chilli prawns and tenderstem broccoli salad at Farmshop, a Soho Houserun restaurant every bit as good as you’d expect. I picked up my shopping at Bicester Village’s station lounge (hands-free shopping is another perk of the package), and headed home to Dorset Square to peruse my purchases over a glass of Champagne (yep; that’s included too). If you fancy a bit of spring style indulgence, you can’t do much better than this super-swish shopping package. No sleeping bag required.

The Dorset Square Hotel Bicester Village Shopping package includes an overnight stay and breakfast and a return trip to Bicester Village. Rates start from £306. Visit www.firmdalehotels.com, or Tel: 020 7723 7874. Flights to London from Edinburgh and Glasgow start from £37 each way with British Airways.

TRAVEL

24 hours in… Edinburgh Rebecca McCosh rediscovers her love for the capital at the new look Radisson Blu hotel

fter 10 years living in Edinburgh, my love for the city had lost a little of its sparkle. Maybe it was because I was no longer a student so drinking Jägerbombs in the Cowgate until 3am didn’t seem to appeal as much. Maybe I’d developed Festival fatigue. Maybe it was the trams. The upshot was, I moved to Midlothian. But intrigued to see if the bright lights of the city could lure me back, I booked an overnight stay at the Radisson Blu Edinburgh and gave myself 24 hours to reconnect with the capital. Situated on the Royal Mile, the turreted exterior of the hotel is perfectly in keeping with the traditional architecture of the Old Town,

“

EDINBURGH, I HOLD MY HANDS UP, I WAS WRONG ABOUT YOU”

so the interior came as quite a surprise. Thanks to a £12million refurbishment, the hotel lobby welcomed us with a slick mix of contemporary, clean lines and cool grey tones. The theme continued in our suite - a modern mural of the Scottish National Gallery adorned the bedroom wall, a stylish grey corner sofa dominated the lounge and citrus cushions added bold pops of colour. Afternoon tea at Itchycoo Bar and Kitchen was just as surprising - a modern medley of artisan breads and delicate sponges paired with a great view of the city which made us feel like we were right in the heart of the action. Afterwards, Sleeping Beauty - a compact salon hidden in the basement of the hotel - provided all the preening and pampering I needed in preparation for a big night out on the town. The verdict? Edinburgh, I hold my hands up, I was wrong about you. You’ve officially won me over again. A night in a Radisson Blu Edinburgh Suite costs from £205 inclusive of breakfast, based on two adults sharing. Radisson Blu, 80 High St, EH1 1TH, Tel: 0131 557 9797, www.radissonblu.com

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o celebrate the opening of the brand new Now by One Spa, i-on readers will receive a complimentary file and polish for the hands when they book a pedicure. Now by One Spa is an all-new beauty salon located in the heart of Edinburgh offering a range of quality and affordable beauty treatments in stylish surroundings. Accessed through the awardwinning One Spa, the salon offers a range of express treatments including facials, tanning, waxing, and brow and nail services by acclaimed brands such as HD Brows, LVL Lashes, OPI and CACI. Whether it’s for a beautiful start to your day, a lunchtime treat or an after work pick-me-up, Now by One Spa’s expertly trained therapists are on hand, with early morning and late night appointments available daily. And with free, onsite parking available, express beauty in Edinburgh just got a whole lot easier.

THE OFFER Book any of the following pedicures and get a complimentary file and polish for the hands, worth £15. Salt of the Earth pedicure with polish, £36 Salt of the Earth pedicure with French polish, £38 Pedicure with OPI GelColour, £35 Pedicure with OPI Gel, French, £37 TO BOOK Call 0131 221 7777 or email info@ onespa.com and quote i-on. Now by One Spa is open seven days a week. 8 Conference Sq, Edinburgh, EH3 8AN, Tel: 0131 221 7777, www.onespa.com/now

Terms and conditions: Offer is valid Mon-Sun until 31 May 2017 and must be booked in advance. Offer is not transferable. Pedicure and complimentary file and polish for the hands must be redeemed within the same appointment slot.

TRAVEL

LEACRAITHNAICH BOTHY

GO OFF-GRID Take your spring getaway to the next level at one of Scotland’s stunning bothies compiled by Dean Newton

o electricity, no running water, no bed and no people. If this sounds like hell to you, chances are a holiday to one of Scotland’s bothies isn’t for you. However, if you fantasise about a real break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and a return to simpler times, a few days in a hut in the wilderness could be exactly what you need (not to mention completely free). Scotland’s premier bothy expert Geoff Allan has hiked, biked and slept the night in each and every Scottish bothy. Here, he chooses his ultimate escapes…

BEST FOR spectacular scenery Suileag bothy lies in the shadow of the iconic sandstone pillar of Suilven, on the northern perimeter of Assynt, a majestic land of isolated island peaks, blanket bog and ribbon lochs, awarded UNESCO Geopark status in 2006. The shelter, which is around an hour’s walk from Glencanisp Lodge in Lochinver, is owned by the sustainability-focused Assynt foundation, which has pledged to safeguard the natural and cultural heritage of this pristine wilderness for future generations.

BEST FOR history

Leacraithnaich bothy stands above a small loch on the remote Morven peninsula, 30 miles south west of Fort William. This windswept moorland has a long history of settlement, dating back to an iron age township found on the site during an archaeological dig in the 1960s. The most distinctive feature is the remains of a medieval crannog; a man-made island that housed a round, thatched dwelling, marked today by a solitary tree close to the far shallows of the loch.

BEST FOR coastal views The stunning 180-degree view from the bay window at The Lookout certainly has the wow factor. This former coastguard watch station, perched precariously close to the cliff edge above Rubha Hunish, the most northerly tip of Skye, offers a panorama encompassing the entire Western Isles, and, on a clear day, the profile of the mainland all the way to Cape Wrath. The bothy is also a fantastic spot for whale and dolphin watching.

THE LOOKOUT

TRAVEL

BEST FOR wildlife Burnmouth Cottage on Hoy, in the Orkney Archipelago, is a fairytale drystone cottage with a heather thatch roof built right above the shore of Rackwick Bay, three miles south of the famous sea stack, Old Man of Hoy. A haven for wildlife, this island of towering cliffs and rolling peat moor hosts a variety of nesting birds during spring and early summer, including puffins, fulmars and great skuas, which are not afraid to dive at speed towards anyone who approaches too close to their territories.

BURNMOUTH COTTAGE

BEST FOR solitude GREENSYKES BOTHY

Concealed in a small clearing within the extensive Eskdalemuir Forest, between Hawick and the English border, Greensykes is an old shepherd's cottage seemingly lost in time. The bothy is a great place to escape the relentless pace of the modern world for a while, much like its near neighbour the Samye Ling Tibetan monastery located just over the hill.

BEFORE YOU GO.. Visit www.mountainbothies.org.uk to get helpful tips on your trip and read the guide to bothy etiquette.

SUILEAG BOTHY

READER OFFER The Scottish Bothy Bible by Geoff Allan is available now from Wild Things Publishing (£16.99). Readers can receive a 25 per cent discount and free P&P from www.wildthingspublishing.com with code ion at checkout.

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teve Jobs used it, the Dalai Lama, Jonny Wilkinson, Google and business people all over the world are using it, plus everyone is talking about it but what actually is this mindfulness malarkey? This is where I could over complicate things by sharing some long-winded explanation that confuses us all but I will try not to do that. In short, mindfulness is a meditation practice for training the mind to be in the present moment by focusing on the body, breath and sound. It is said to have originated in Buddhist thinking over 2,500 years ago and can be practiced in many ways by either ‘formal’ (sitting meditations, mindful movement etc) or ‘informal’ practice (mindful walking, washing dishes etc) all to help us become more aware. Simple as that. THE MYTHS OF MINDFULNESS Using mindfulness regularly helps build awareness of everything, from our thoughts, surroundings, habits and choices to our internal dialogue, communication and health. Sounds a bit hippy dippy, right? Well it’s not. Everyone can become ‘mindful’, even you – just don’t be scared off by the myths. Some believe that the aim of mindfulness is to stop thinking. But frankly, you should be worried if your mind is not coming up with thoughts as this is what it does. Just as the eyes look, the nose smells, and the ears listen, the mind thinks and it’s hard to switch that off. But while normally, given the headspace, we build layers onto thoughts and start overthinking, mindfulness trains us to step back from those thoughts

WTF is Mindfulness? We’ve all heard people talk about it but are we really sure what it is? Craig Ali breaks it down

FEATURES

and focus on the physical - our breathing, sounds or sensations. Hopefully, we will then reach the point where we simply observe the thoughts as they arise but without judging them or trying to change them – almost like watching from a distance. The second huge myth of mindfulness is that you have to feel relaxed when meditating. Mindfulness is one of the most effective things you can use for relaxation and stress but isn’t always pleasant and relaxing. Just like when you exercise it can feel uncomfortable, boring and difficult at times. The key thing is learning to use the techniques and guides to bring you back to the present moment, and feeling free to drop the practice if it feels like too much that day. The magic will come from consistent practice over time, just like when you exercise. JUST DO IT So how do you implement mindfulness into daily life? Bit by bit is best. It is way better to do 10 minutes every day than 60 minutes once a week. Download the Headspace app or attend a class to get to grips with things supported by a trained professional. If you have never run before, you wouldn’t just go and attempt a half marathon; you would gradually build up miles and intensity – it’s the same with training the mind. And when you know the basics, you’ll find you can practice on the bus, walking to work or even at your desk. You’ll learn slowly but surely how to build it into your daily life – and you won’t believe the difference it’ll make to your wellbeing.

Craig Ali is a certified holistic lifestyle coach, Thai massage therapist, personal trainer and mindfulness practitioner. He’s spent more than 15 years working with world class athletes, ambassadors, executives and global organisations and founded Edinburgh’s Total Health, who work with clients to improve happiness, wellbeing and performance – at home and at work.

READER OFFER For free guided practices to follow, email info@totalhealth.uk.com and quote i-on mindfulness.

BEAUTY

The i-on team road test beauty’s hottest new ingredient: activated charcoal

Frank body’s Creamy Face Cleanser, £15.95 “Having suffered acne for over 20 years, I’m cautious with my skin but this cleanser took off the most stubborn make-up in just one cleanse with no lingering residue and a divine earthy smell.” Amy Falconer, Account Director

Origins Clear Improvement Purifying Charcoal Body Wash, £19 “Scented with refreshing mint and clove, this body wash worked into a really nice lather while the activated charcoal got deep down into that daily grime to leave me feeling squeaky clean.” Amanda Southey, Business Development Manager

Bioré Charcoal Pore Minimiser, £6.29 “Thanks to the exfoliating microcrystals, I could feel this face wash getting to work instantly. The active ingredients drew out deep-down impurities; the results – brighter skin and visibly smaller pores.” Rebecca McCosh, Digital Editorial Manager

Diamond Whites Black Edition Tooth Polish, £16.99 “After the initial horror of resembling something from a zombie movie and covering my sink in inky black stains, I learned to love this 100% charcoal tooth polish. It might be messy but my teeth look brighter and feel cleaner that ever.” Carine Seitz, Contributor

Tom Ford For Men Intensive Purifying Mud Mask, £46 “This super-thick black mud mask glides over the skin and smells great. After a few uses, my skin looks clearer and feels smoother (although the same can’t be said for my towels).” Paul Dickson, Designer

Nugg Charcoal Face Mask, £3.99 “This black gel-like mask looked daunting but felt amazing going on. As it dried, I could feel the tea-tree oil and charcoal getting to work and when I washed it off 10 minutes later, my skin felt soft, glowing and refreshed.” Carrie Mitchell, Acting Editor

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BEAUTY

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LIP FILLERS Cath Tait takes the plunge and plumps up her pout

How to fakpes fuller li Bobbi Brown PRO Artist MaryAnn Keenan gives her step-bystep guide...

PRIME Use the Buffing Grains, £32, with a Lip Balm, £16.50, and gently massage the lips in a circular motion to take off chapped skin and encourage blood flow to naturally plump the lips. Tissue off excess and reapply a thin layer of balm. LINE To achieve a fuller 2 look, opt for a lip pencil, £17.50, slightly deeper than your chosen lip colour. COLOUR Use a lip brush 3 and choose a formula with staying power and moisture like the new Art Stick Liquid Lip, £21.50. CONCEAL Apply a 4 concealer slightly lighter than your skin around the edges of the lip using a concealer brush - this will create a fuller lip by making them stand out. GLOSS Add a touch of 5 gloss to the middle of the lip to create dimension and give a fuller lip look.

fter a year of looking in the mirror wondering where my top lip had gone, I finally plucked up the courage to get fillers. Of course, I’d seen the celebrity trout pout pictures but I was reassured that Dr Nestor was one of Scotland’s best cosmetic doctors and would only ever aim to enhance his clients’ appearance, not completely change it. From the moment I walked into his clinic on Dundas Street, I knew I’d made the right decision. Dr Nestor talked me through why my lips had changed over the years and explained that by following my lip line, he could envisage how my lips had been back in my younger days and would use this to get a lovely natural look.

First my lips were numbed then Dr Nestor got to work injecting the filler. I’d been told the injections would really sting, but it was all over pretty quickly and relatively painlessly. Afterwards, Dr Nestor simply advised me not to wear make up for 24 hours and gave me a little tin of Vaseline to apply to help with the healing. And that was that. After just a day of swelling, I could see the results and I was thrilled - my lips were back to how they were in the good old days and look completely natural - totally worth the £450 cost for the treatment. Dr Nestor’s Medical Cosmetic Centre, 53 Dundas St, EH3 6RS, Tel: 0131 237 8939, www.drnestor.co.uk

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FEATURES Perfumer Frederic Malle collaborated with designer Alber Elbaz to create Superstitious, £158 for 50ml, an unashamedly womanly floral aldehyde.

scents NEW SEASON

Spring perfumes were once predictably sweet and pretty but not anymore – as these feisty fragrances reveal

If you like your tea sweet with a touch of spice, you’ll love the Darjeeling Tea fragrance, £240 for 175ml, from Jo Malone London’s Rare Tea Collection.

Fleur Musc by Narciso Rodriguez, £40 for 30ml EDP, features roses and peonies grounded by notes of musk, patchouli and amber.

Sisley’s new Izia EDP, £69 for 30ml, is an intriguing blend of florals, white bergamot and cedar with a sparkling citrus top note.

Aerin’s new Bamboo Rose, £120 for 100ml, is a green floral rose blend seasoned with a touch of warm amber and pink pepper.

Woody, aromatic with a splash of citrus, Dolce & Gabanna’s Velvet Cypress, £165 for 50ml, is the perfect his and hers spring scent.

The red rose at the centre of Molton Brown’s Rosa Absolute, £39 for 50ml, is spiced up with red berries, cinnamon and clove.

FEATURES

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T H I N G S YO U N E E D TO K N O W A B O U T…

David Pollock on why the grime artist is the most talked about man in music

FEATURES CULTURE

HE’S THE FUTURE OF GRIME Or a big part of its future, at least. We’re in the midst of a revival of the genre, thanks to a new generation of rappers and producers who grew up experiencing the scene’s first explosion into the mainstream through artists like Dizzee Rascal and Wiley. Alongside Skepta in particular, Stormzy - 23-year-old Michael Omari, from Thornton Heath in South London - has made the biggest play for a mainstream crossover with his debut album Gang Signs & Prayer. And by all accounts he’s done pretty well - the album is the UK’s first ever grime album to reach number one and he was one of the most lauded acts at this year’s Brit awards.

HE MAKES THINGS HAPPEN Given the difficulties grime has faced breaking through to the mainstream, Stormzy made the decision to self-release his album through his own independent label. A brave move which is evidently paying off. And it’s not just himself he’s standing up for. His criticism of the lack of diversity at last year’s Brits led to the chairman inviting him in for a chat. "We had a very constructive talk, he showed me the categories of eligibility, I told him how these could be improved," Stormzy said. And as a result, this year's nominations list was much more diverse - in fact, only one of the five nominees for best male was white. Taking to the stage in celebration of his own nomination for best breakthrough act, Stormzy performed with Ed Sheeran - another artist who has self-released albums after being overlooked by the industry.

HE’S A VERY UNIQUE KIND OF ROLE MODEL A church-going boy who read obsessively at his local library, Stormzy became a tearaway teenager who was suspended and eventually expelled from school. At age 19, he turned his life around, getting an engineering apprenticeship and eventually work on an oil rig, which he combined with music. This split cuts right through his music, too. “I wanted to touch on the gospel side of

I DON’T WANT TO BE THE BEST RAPPER IN THE UK, I WANT TO BE THE BEST ARTIST IN THE UK”

things, and my faith, because that’s so integral to my character,” he explained. “And the other side of my life – growing up in the streets, doing the things I’ve done with the people I was with, that is also a very integral part of me. I’m not a one-dimensional character.”

HE’S A PROPER STAR NOW Already a MOBO award winner and BBC Sound of 2015 pick, the six foot five Stormzy was a novelty one-hit wonder at first, going Top Ten with Shut Up in December 2015. Now he collaborates with Lily Allen, is championed by Adele and gets to interview David Beckham live onstage. “I don’t want to be the best rapper in the UK, I want to be the best artist in the UK,” he declared. “That takes my competitors from 20 people to 100 people… In my head I’m like, ‘Why can’t I compete with them? Why can’t Stormzy from South London do that as well?’”

HIS ALBUM WILL BLOW YOU AWAY Made with Adele collaborator Fraser T Smith, Gang Signs & Prayer is a powerful record, rich in the dark mood of Austerity Britain, but not without deep veins of heart and humour. The storm-drenched First Things First is a grim declaration of intent and Bad Boys is a sombre reflection on gangster life, but Velvet is a slow jam which becomes an almost tongue-in-cheek soul croon and Cold is drenched in clubby, upbeat horn samples. Stormzy plays TRNSMT festival, Glasgow Green, on Saturday 08 July.

CULTURE

The Hot Festival Ticket T in the Park may be taking a break but Scotland’s boutique festival scene is bigger and better than ever…

THE GUESTLIST HELENA HAUFF 14 Apr, Bongo Club, Edinburgh. Three hours of house and electro from the acclaimed German producer. KERRI CHANDLER 15 Apr, Sub Club, Glasgow. The classic New Jersey house producer plays his rescheduled New Year’s Eve date.

DOUNE THE RABBIT HOLE A leafy family affair at Cardross Estate near Stirling, Doune the Rabbit Hole has a great reputation. Although the bill hasn’t yet been announced, organiser Synergy Concerts’ track record with the former Wickerman festival and some of Scotland’s biggest venues promises only good things. www.dounetherabbithole.co.uk

18-20 AUG

MAY WEST This brand new festival runs across the May Bank Holiday weekend on Glasgow Green (which is, admittedly, in the East End). An eclectic bill includes The Stranglers, Ward Thomas, Turin Brakes and Public Service Broadcasting. www.may-west.com

27-28 MAY

CARNIVAL FIFTY SIX This new, pop-focused weekender at Dundee’s Camperdown Park looks set to be quite the party. Headlined by Mark Ronson, Rudimental and Clean Bandit, The Fratellis will bring a bit of anthemic rock and there will also be DJ sets from Basement Jaxx and Hot Chip. www.carnivalfiftysix.co.uk

12-13 AUG

KELBURN GARDEN PARTY

30 JUN- Set in an idyllic forest retreat 03 JUL near the water, Kelburn is both a perfect family festival and a great event for late-night-revellers, with a programme featuring Mr Scruff’s Keep It Unreal, Numbers and Optimo, alongside an excellent bill of local bands during the day. www.kelburngardenparty.com

ELECTRIC FIELDS Last year’s critical festival success story is back at Drumlanrig Castle, Dumfries & Galloway, with headline appearances from Frightened Rabbit and Dizzee Rascal, plus The Jesus and Mary Chain, Band of Horses, Arab Strap, Kate Tempest and many more. www.electricfieldsfestival.com

01-03 SEP

TERMINAL V 16 Apr, Royal Highland Centre, Edinburgh. Nightvision’s Easter festival has landed with Adam Beyer, Carl Craig and many more. KOLSCH 21 Apr, SWG3, Glasgow. Danish producer Rune RK arrives in Glasgow under his most famous alias. OPTIMO 22 Apr, The Tunnels, Aberdeen. The iconic Glasgow duo take their uniquely stunning set on the road.

SEE THE DIFFERENCE CLAIM YOUR FREE DAY PASS BY VISITING WWW.DAVIDLLOYD.CO.UK/DAY-PASS David Lloyd Edinburgh Newhaven Harbour Newhaven Place, Newhaven EH6 4LX Tel: 0131 554 5000 T&C’s apply. Under 18’s must be accompanied by an adult & pass must be pre-booked.

CULTURE

BEHIND THE BOOK

THE BOOK SHELF

This month’s must-reads... A Gentleman in Moscow By Amor Towles (Hutchinson) Count Alexander Rostov is confined to house arrest in 1920’s Russia. But he refuses to let his imprisonment beat him and somehow finds a new way to have purpose and pleasure within the walls of his attic room in Moscow’s Hotel Metropol. The Last Act of Hattie Hoffman by Mindy Mejia (Quercus) When a perfect high school student is murdered, the community are left reeling. This gripping mystery explores Hattie’s demise through the eyes of the victim, her English teacher and the sheriff. But was Hattie as innocent as she seemed? The Roanoke Girls by Amy Engel (Hodder & Staughton) Beautiful, rich, mysterious, the Roanoke girls seemed to have it all but the family legacy is much darker than anyone could have imagined. This generation’s Flowers In The Attic, this haunting, tense tale won’t be easily forgotten.

“I’m still pinching myself” Glasgow author Gail Honeyman wrote her debut novel aged 40 and it is about to go stratospheric

I've always wanted to write a novel, but it wasn't until my 40th birthday that I finally plucked up the courage to give it a go. A big birthday often prompts you to focus on the things you haven't got around to yet. I had to fit writing in around a full-time job. I was working in an administrative role in higher education so I’d get up very early to write before work, I'd take my notebook to cafes during my lunch breaks, and I’d try to find a spare hour or two at the weekend. I signed up for an evening course in creative writing, which was the first time I'd ever shown anyone my work. It was terrifying at first, but great to get feedback on what was (and wasn't) working. It took two and a half years to complete the novel. To my surprise and delight, there was a lot of interest in the book, and it ended up going to auction.

It's now been sold in almost 30 territories around the world. I'm still pinching myself! My inspiration came from a newspaper article about a young woman who often found herself not speaking to another human being after leaving the office on Friday until she returned on Monday. I started to think about various scenarios in which this could happen and, slowly, the character of Eleanor Oliphant began to emerge. The book is the sometimes funny, sometimes tragic story of this out-of-theordinary heroine who gradually comes to realise that the only way to survive is to open your heart. Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine (Harper Collins) is out on 18 May. Read our review in next month’s The Book Shelf.

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i-on food+drink ADULTS ONLY Celebrate Easter the grown-up way with some decadent chocolate shavings atop this luxury take on the espresso martini. Made with actor Dan Aykroyd's famously smooth (and additive free) Crystal Head Vodka, 'The Night Cap' is a creamy indulgent treat to have when the kids are sleeping off their sugar high.

INGREDIENTS • 45ml Crystal Head Vodka • 15ml coffee liqueur • 1 fresh espresso shot • Chocolate shavings

METHOD Pour Crystal Head, coffee liqueur and espresso into a shaker filled with ice. Shake vigorously to create froth, then strain into a martini glass. Garnish with chocolate shavings.

FOOD AND DRINK

TASTE TREND

Awesome Asparagus Celebrate the start of asparagus season with these easy dishes featuring spring’s tastiest vegetable MEXICAN-STYLE ASPARAGUS Keep things simple with griddled asparagus topped with a zesty lime and sour cream glaze. Perfect for spring BBQs. Serves: 2 Preparation time: 5 minutes Cooking time: 5 minutes Ingredients 1 bunch British asparagus, trimmed 2 tsp oil 1 tbsp sour cream

½ lime 20g parmesan, finely grated ½ tsp chilli powder ½ tsp ground cumin

Method 1. Brush the asparagus with oil and cook on the barbecue for 5 minutes, turning regularly. Meanwhile combine the sour cream and lime juice, and in a separate bowl combine the cheese and spices. 2. Once the asparagus is cooked, brush each with the sour cream mixture then sprinkle with the cheese and serve. 3. Add a little more or less spice to suit your taste.

MORE SPEEDY ASPARAGUS SUPPERS…

Asparagus Tarragon & Almond Pizza Bianco

One Pan Asparagus Chicken & New Potato Roast

Asparagus, Mozarella and Bacon Sliders

Asparagus Mac’n’Cheese with Bacon Crumble

See the full recipes at www.ionmagazine.co.uk and for more, visit www.britishasparagus.com

Asparagus, Salmon & Squash Rice Bowl

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16/03/2017

14:06

CMY

WHY JAPANESE FOOD IS GOOD FOR YOU Nutritionist Cassandra Burns reveals the must-eat foods from Japan’s famously healthy diet

FISH

Fish is a fantastic source of omega-3 fatty acids which are essential for heart health, brain and eyes. They’re also associated with keeping inflammation in check. As high inflammation is a characteristic of most chronic disease – from arthritis to heart disease to Alzheimer’s – keeping it under control may be a key factor in maintaining good health into old age. As a bonus, fish is rich in selenium, which is vital for our antioxidant defences and immune system, and B vitamins that help to keep our brain chemistry in balance.

FERMENTED SOYA One of the ‘secrets’ of the health of Japanese women is thought to be their consumption of soya foods, thanks to the isoflavones they contain. Consumption of soya isoflavones has been associated with a lower risk of breast cancer and endometrial (womb) cancer in women after menopause, as well as better bone mineral density and reduced risk of osteoporosis and fracture. The Japanese tend to consume traditional fermented soya foods such as miso, umami paste, tempeh and natto - the fermentation process increases the vitamin K2 content which plays a role in bone health and heart health too.

FEATURES

SEAWEED

Rich in minerals including iodine, zinc, magnesium, calcium and potassium, seaweed contains dozens of minerals we need for our immune system, antioxidant defences and heart health. Many of us don’t get enough of these minerals in our normal diet, even if we eat plenty of vegetables, because the soil they grow in can be depleted. As an easy and delicious way to get more seaweed in your diet, try Clearspring’s Seaveg Crispies (www.clearspring.co.uk), made from toasted nori.

ONE OF THE ‘SECRETS’ OF THE HEALTH OF JAPANESE WOMEN IS THOUGHT TO BE THEIR CONSUMPTION OF SOYA FOODS"

MATCHA TEA

Matcha is a traditional powdered green tea made from the fresh leaf tips of the tea plant. Green tea – matcha in particular – is high in a specific type of flavanols called catechins. These substances boost our body’s antioxidant defences, potentially helping to protect against degenerative conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, heart disease and even cancers. In addition, matcha tea contains higher amounts of a substance called theanine, which has been found to have a relaxing effect on the mind and may help protect against the negative effects of stress.

PICKLED VEGETABLES

Traditionally fermented pickled vegetables are a great source of natural probiotics (beneficial bacteria). They can favour digestive health, helping us to digest and absorb the nutrients in the food we eat, which then benefits all areas of our health. And as around 75 per cent of the immune system resides in our gut, improving our gut flora may specifically benefit the immune system – not only helping to fight against infection, but also helping to prevent conditions associated with over-activity of the immune system, such as autoimmune diseases.

WANT TO GET STUCK IN? Turn the page to find out where you can eat great Japanese food in Edinburgh and Glasgow

Here's where to find authentic dishes in Edinburgh and Glasgow...

SAPPORO TEPPANYAKI Dean Newton enjoys a Japanese feast with a little added theatre

et’s get things started with a fun fact, the word teppanyaki is derived from teppan, which means iron plate, and yaki, which means grilled, broiled, or panfried. It’s the semi-theatrical style of sociable cooking where eager chefs will sizzle your dish in front of you while trying to singe your eyebrows off. It’s fun, honest. The mother-in-law and I went for a slightly impromptu lunch on a rainy Thursday and, having eaten in more formal settings of late, were pleased about the lively change of pace. Parked around a horseshoe shaped bar, our chef/ringmaster manned the central hotplate, keeping diners of all ages entertained between courses. The menu at Sapporo is extensive - we required a sherpa to guide us through and plenty of time to decide. In the end, we

“CHEFS WILL SIZZLE YOUR DISH IN FRONT OF YOU WHILE TRYING TO SINGE YOUR EYE BROWS OFF”

opted for a marvellous mix including chicken gyozas, £5.25, a platter of sushi rolls, £13.25, seafood tempura, £8.75, seafood combination teppanyaki, £22.75, and lamb rump teppanyaki, £16.95. After catching a few airborne sautéed potatoes courtesy of the chef, we got stuck into our cornucopia of treats. Sapporo’s style is mostly authentic with some regional remixes thrown in (see Glasgow sushi roll with smoked haddock). The seabass tempura was an unexpected favourite among a selection that included prawn and squid (both also fantastic). Lamb rump was also a surprise hero, the cut lends itself beautifully to the style of cooking, forming a perfect crust full of flavour and medium-rare juicy. While lunch with my dear mother-in-law is of course always a joy, the vibe in Sapporo lends itself best to a fun evening visit, a date night or pre-theatre, with a few glasses of sake thrown in. Who needs eyebrows anyway? 2-6 Ingram St, Merchant City, G1 1HA. Tel: 0141 553 4060, www.sapporo.co.uk

FOOD AND DRINK

KENJI SUSHI

BEST OF THE REST...

“IMAGINE THE GLOATING POINTS TO BE SCORED WITH THE PHRASE, ‘OH, OUR LUCA JUST LOVES HIS SUSHI’”

n 2005, when we started up this little lifestyle magazine, we worked from a two bed flat in Stockbridge, on St Stephen Street. Back then, the street offered little in the way of either culinary or retail delights and the quick stroll to the second office, The Baillie, was unimpeded by window shopping. How things change. St Stephen Street now has the restaurants and shops it deserves and a stroll down here offers choice with a touch of class. One of the newest additions is Kenji Sushi, serving authentic Japanese food.We popped along for lunch with our three year old in tow, imagining the parental gloating points to be scored with the phrase, “Oh, our Luca just LOVES his sushi”. With traditional decor and tobiko seats (so comfortable), the small but strangely tardis like interior hits just the right note with a buzzy atmosphere to boot.

Photo by Cat Thomson

Jo Morris attempts to convince her son that raw fish really is delicious

My partner and I love sushi. I came to it late in life (“raw fish? Fish? Raw??) but devour the stuff these days so we were extremely excited by the prospect of having a local sushi place on our doorstep. And the good news is that Kenji has nailed it. Perfect salmon and tuna nigiri, delicious maki rolls and sashimi presented so beautifully you just want to stare at it. However, the best news about Kenji is that they also serve rather fabulous noodle dishes so, if your partner is a sushi-phobe but you love nothing more, then Kenji has something for both of you. Oh and our son did manage one nigiri roll which he rather liked but I think he’s going to need a bit more practice before we get full bragging rights.

42 St Stephen St, EH3 5AL, Tel: 0131 226 5111, www.kenjisushi.co.uk

HARAJUKU KITCHEN This Japanese bistro in Bruntsfield offers a great selection of gyoza, tempura and sushi rolls. They also serve street food every Sunday at Stockbridge Market and on alternate Saturdays in the Grassmarket. Plus they're about to take over the kitchen residency at Bourbon on Frederick Street. www.harajukukitchen.co.uk KANPAI SUSHI

This upscale Japanese restaurant by the Usher Hall offers authentic, sophisticated cuisine when you're looking for a special spot for an intimate dinner. It's all about artfully-presented, freshy-prepared sushi and sashimi here so don't expect to fill up on noodles. www.kanpaisushi.co.uk WAGAMAMA With three buzzing outposts in both Glasgow and Edinburgh already, a new restaurant is about to launch right in the heart of the capital on St Andrew Square. Opens 10 April. www.wagamama.com

BIT AT THE BACK

I WAKE UP… …at 6.45am. After checking emails, I get up, put on the lights in the kids’ rooms to wake them, then jump in the shower. I’ll squeeze in a 30 minute workout if time permits then shout, grunt, beg and cajole the kids to get up. The dog’s the only one in

a good mood in the mornings so I’ll make a fuss of her then have breakfast - porridge made with water, a pinch of salt and raspberries. Or if I have to rush out, I will get poached eggs on toast from Where the Monkey Sleeps (pictured above) with an obligatory flat white. AT WORK… The first task is to review what’s ahead for the day and brief everyone before it gets too frantic. Being CEO means that I spend a good part of the day running the business. However, my forte is booking bands, working with brands and creating events. That’s the fun bit and I need to ensure that there’s sufficient fun in each day! I love getting a confirmation on an artist that I really want to work with, doesn’t matter if

AFTER HOURS… I try to leave the office by 7pm but often have to go straight to an event or dinner meeting. On the rare occasions I’m not busy, it’s good to go and see a film, have dinner with friends or watch Man City. At home, we try to eat fairly healthily, although I’m often in a rush and usually eat at a different time to everyone else.

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF… Geoff Ellis, CEO of concert and festival promoter, DF Concerts.

it’s for King Tut’s or Hampden – it’s a real adrenalin rush. So is looking out from the Main Stage at T in the Park and watching the amazing crowd – the best in the world, without doubt! THE HARDEST PART IS… … the time after the show comes down and the audience has left. It can be a very flat feeling when it all comes to an abrupt halt and there’s a massive clean-up operation to do.

DOWNTIME... I try to be in bed for 1am but it can be later. I’d like to wind down and read a book but always fall straight to sleep so never get the chance. I’d also like to have more time to spend with my family as they don’t see that much of me! IN 10 YEARS TIME… …I’d still like to be working with fantastic, inspiring artists and passionate audiences. If you’re looking for a replacement for T in the Park fix, check out TRNSMT on Glasgow Green from 07-09 July. www.trnsmtfest.com