Business Women Scotland

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ISSUE 18 : OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2012 : BI-MONTHLY

www.bwsltd.co.uk

B U S I N E S S women scotland ONCE UPON A TIME... Our new-look profiles featuring inspiring business women

QUICK QUESTION

We quiz the experts on today’s topics

WHAT MOTIVATES WINTER YOU? WARDROBE Women in Seasonal business must-have tell us all fashion...

WHAT WINTER MOTIVATES WARDROBE Seasonal YOU? must-have Women in businessfashion... tell all


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BUSINESS WOMEN SCOTLAND

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Welcome

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here’s nothing like starting a new season with an air of optimism and change, so with this in mind we decided to give Business Women Scotland a winter makeover! Our BWS profiles - in which we feature successful and inspiring business women each issue - have a new look. Within each of our ‘Once upon a time...’ profiles we read about how their careers began and developed, and ask them for their top tips for success! The featured companies are from all over Scotland - McPhee Mixers in Blantyre (page 4), Law At Work in Edinburgh and Glasgow (page 8), and Peapod, a grotto of vintage furniture and fashion under one roof in Aberdeen (page 14). We know you all have busy lives so with that in mind our lifestyle section covers the latest fashion on the High Street, while Sara Hill, from the Makeup Academy, gives you her top tips for a new look for winter and how to achieve the desired effect. We hope you enjoy this issue!

The BWS Team

Business Women Scotland Ltd Tel: 0141 332 8801 www.bwsltd.co.uk

Managing Editor Lynne Kennedy, Email: lynne@bwsltd.co.uk Editor Beverley Brown, Email: info@bwsltd.co.uk Art Director Jennifer Kelly, Email: edit@bwsltd.co.uk Accounts Isabel Harland, Email: isabel@bwsltd.co.uk Advertising Sales Email: adverts@bwsltd.co.uk Cover Make-up: Sara Hill Fashion Stylist: Victoria Martin Hair Stylist: Martine Carroll Photographer: Angela Stewart Model: Adriana Bucur See page 29 for full details. Published by Business Women Scotland Limited Tel: 0141 332 8801, www.bwsltd.co.uk Independently owned and published by Business Women Scotland Limited. No part of this publication may be reproduced or used in any form or by any means whatsoever, without the express written permission of the publisher. The design of advertising copy produced without additional charge by our company remains the copyright property of Business Women Scotland Limited and may not be reproduced in any other publication without our express written permission. © All rights reserved by Business Women Scotland Limited.

Contents

04 07 08 11 13 14 17 20 22 24 25 27 30 32 33 35 36 38

Once upon a time... with Lorna McFarlane McPhee Mixers, Blantyre. Quick Question Louise Alford, Business HR Director, Sky. Once upon a time... with Jane Wright Law At Work, Glasgow & Edinburgh.

Quick Question Pamela Anderson, Senior HR Consultant, Square Circle. Focus on Aberdeen Aberdeen Business School at Robert Gordon University. Once upon a time... with Peapod Vintage furniture and fashion shop, Aberdeen. Holiday Inn Celebrating big birthdays! What Motivates You? We asked these 3 successful women in business. Once upon a time... with Rebecca Murray The Murray Partnership, Edinburgh. Quick Question Emma Ravichandran, Director, Clinetix. Lifestyle Introduction Welcome to our lifestyle section... Winter Wonder Wardrobe Must-have fashion for autumn/winter. Dare To Be Bold This seasons hottest make-up looks from Sara Hill. Health & Wellbeing New products to maintain our health and wellbeing. Ask Anne Anne Ferguson answers our haircare questions. Eat Fat To Lose Fat ‘Essential’ advice from Amanda Hamilton. Going With The Flow Delicious recipes and wines. Sheila Fleet Celebrating in VIP style.


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BUSINESS WOMEN SCOTLAND

Once upon a

time...

Our new ‘Once upon a time...’ feature profiles successful and inspiring business women by highlighting how they got started in their chosen field, and how their story has developed - alongside top tips and advice. Our first profile focuses on Lorna McFarlane from McPhee Mixers in Blantyre.

Lorna McFarlane

“Growing up I remember how important the business was to my father and the fa mily... so I was used to an environment where work was the focus.” Lorna McFarlane

Name: Company: Location:

Lorna McFarlane McPhee Mixers Blantyre, Lanarkshire

www.mcpheemixers.co.uk

L

orna McFarlane is a co-director – with husband Brinsley – of McPhee Mixers, which was set up by her late father, William, 40 years ago. The company is Scotland’s only manufacturer of concrete mixers and, as well as supplying bespoke designed mixers to individual operators, supplies some of the leading major companies in the concrete mixing world including Cemex, Bardon, Hanson, Lafarge and Tarmac. Lorna trained as a nurse/midwife and worked in London before moving back to Scotland where she was working in Lanarkshire hospitals. In 1992 her father then suggested she join the company and although Lorna admits she was unsure of how it could work, decided to give it a go. After marrying Brinsley the couple worked alongside each other in the family business and when her father died in 2001, the couple took over the running of the company, which today employs 44 people. The company is projecting sales in 2013 to hit the £4million mark. During 2012 the company has launched a series of design innovations, which the management believes results in the production of Europe’s “safest, most


BUSINESS WOMEN SCOTLAND

Top Tips For Success ✔ Hard work! There’s no easy way around this one - it’s just a case of heads down and get on with the hard graft.

✔ Focus on quality and service. We put our customers and their requirements at the forefront of everything we do on a daily basis.

✔ Develop a strong workforce. We’re fortunate in that we have a loyal and hard working staff, several of whom have been with us since the beginning when they joined as apprentices.

✔ Pay attention to detail. We nit-pick to ensure that our standards are high when it comes to our product manufacturing processes.

✔ Be an expert ‘juggler’. I look after a lot of the administration side of the business and so I will often have a myriad of tasks underway at any one time in a day. This makes it important to be flexible to deal with issues as and when they arise - as well as work closely with the production side to ensure we’re meeting deadlines. It can be pretty full on.

Quick Question

Q:

Where do you like to holiday?

H aving two young daughters and running a busy company means we can struggle to fit in proper breaks away, even though we love travelling. The biggest factor in our holiday choice is somewhere that allows us to switch off (a very difficult task) and not discuss the business. Most recently we took a week off and headed to the Canaries. The weather was great and the villa had access to a pool so we spent a lot of time chilling out poolside. Would we go back? Probably not as there wasn’t enough to entertain our daughters.

A:

Q:

How do you spend your spare time?

Spare time?! What’s that?! Our focus is on our children and we love nothing more complicated than taking them and the dogs for a long walk in the countryside close to our home. We’ll walk for miles and then forget we’ve got to walk the same miles home again. It’s all part of the ‘getting away from it all’ ethos which is so important in striking a positive work/life balance. Working with your husband/partner in business brings its own challenges and so down time is very valuable and cherished.

A:

Q:

What was your best night out in the last 12 months?

Lorna & Brinsley

environmentally compliant mixers”. The new designs were launched earlier this year at the country’s largest exhibition of heavy plant and vehicles – Hillhead 2012. Lorna said, “Growing up I remember how important the business was to my father and the family. He lived and breathed the business so I was used to an environment where work was the focus. Our priorities include the delivery of firstclass quality products that often will be designed bespoke to our clients’ needs. “Our manufacturing quality is of an extremely high standard and is what we believe what sets us apart. “For a long time the company focused on supplying only the Scottish home market but we realised that to grow the company the business would need to expand its horizons. “We invested a lot of time researching our markets outside Scotland in the rest of the UK and identified potential customers. “A sales campaign to secure orders for mixers then led to us supplying vehicles all over the country. This was a real turning point in the business development.” ■

It was most probably going to see Madonna at Murrayfield. It wasn’t just the concert that appealed but we also had dinner and stayed at The Witchery next to Edinburgh Castle. We spoiled ourselves a bit so it was a great treat.

A:

Q:

What do you least enjoy about work?

I’ve always said if I didn’t enjoy work I would change but it’s difficult when it’s a family business. I feel the business is in my blood because it’s been around for as long as I’ve been growing up. There’s always one major frustration and that’s not having achieved your daily list of tasks. But then, there’s always tomorrow!

A:

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02/11/2011 10:54


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BUSINESS WOMEN SCOTLAND

uick uestion

Louise Alford, Business HR Director for Sky, answers our questions on, amongst other topics, effective leadership and rewarding management.

Q:

When did you first become a Director at Sky?

A:

I have been at Sky as a Business HR Director since 2009. It was great to join a growing, innovative company which has a wide geographical coverage in the UK and to be able to work with colleagues to shape the Customer Service agenda and the people plans that support the business.

Q:

What have you learnt about leadership?

A:

There is a perception that leadership only applies to the most senior employees in a company, but there are opportunities to lead at almost every stage of your career. Whether taking a leading role within a team, or managing an entire department, the principles are the same: great leadership is founded on building excellent relationships and understanding how to motivate people to reach their full potential. As my career has progressed I’ve learnt a huge amount from colleagues and it’s rewarding now to be able to share my own lessons with those at an earlier stage in their careers.

Q:

Have you been inspired by any one person or theory in the way you manage?

A:

Over my career there are several people who have inspired me – from being a graduate trainee in Marks & Spencer and admiring the approach of one of the assistant HR Managers, to working with a very internationally experienced leader whose energy and passion was both inspiring and

infectious. Looking at great role models is a good way of seeing what works well and how you can adapt your style to develop your own leadership skills.

Q:

What’s the best and worst parts of managing?

A:

Working in customer service in the fast-paced world of media and entertainment can be demanding – especially for managers, who have to help their teams embrace new challenges on a daily basis. We believe that people are the secret of Sky’s success as a company, so it’s vital to ensure that staff feel valued and supported in everything they do. This is a key part of how we attract and retain the very best people. The highlight for me as a manager is seeing the progress an individual can make when they have the right support and opportunities to develop.

Q:

What do you look for in hiring senior staff?

A:

When hiring staff at any level Sky places huge importance on attitude, and having the right mind set, rather than on a specific set of qualifications. This applies right up to the most senior levels. We look for people who bring energy and dynamism to the work they do, and who are prepared to go the extra mile to ensure great results.

Louise Alford Business HR Director Sky

applies. In fact we try to ensure application processes are as tailored as possible to the job, often by running dedicated assessment centres. However, we do encourage all interviewers to focus on getting to know people as individuals – what motivates them, their passions and interests, their ambitions. This is the best way to work out whether they will thrive in Sky where people are encouraged to bring their own ideas and personality to the role.

Q:

What’s the best career advice?

A:

The advice that has served me best over the years is to focus on the things you are good at, the things you enjoy and to seize opportunities as they arise. In companies where roles change and emerge, opportunities can arise that didn’t exist when you joined the company, so be prepared to make the move - even if it might feel a bit challenging! Most people don’t know at the outset of their careers exactly where their work will take them, but this is the best way to ensure the end result is fulfilling and offers the best opportunities to develop.

Q:

And finally, time to relax, what do you like to do?

A:

Q:

I love skiing and walking! I recently completed the first ever Great Pentlands Push with my team – a charity fundraising walk across the hills in Edinburgh. Great fun and a lot of miles!

A:

www.sky.com

Is there one question you want answered in job interviews? Given the range of different roles we recruit for, there is no single question that we ask everyone who

Sky

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BUSINESS WOMEN SCOTLAND

Once upon a

time...

The second of this issues ‘Once upon a time...’ profiles focuses on Jane Wright from Law at Work - leading, fixed-fee provider of employment law and health and safety services.

S

Jane Wright

Name: Company: Location:

Jane Wright Law At Work (LAW) Glasgow & Edinburgh

www.lawatwork.co.uk

tarting her working life in the public sector in the late 70s, Jane Wright moved into pharmaceuticals, joining GD Searle Pharmaceuticals, before going on to work for Glaxo Laboratories (latterly GlaxoWellcome and GSK). After gaining experience in a number of roles including sales, training and marketing, Jane moved from drugs to drink and joined Diageo where she stayed for four years. After a further foray back into the pharmaceutical industry, she then made the move into the legal profession, joining Law At Work as Chief Executive in May 2010. Although not a lawyer, in her previous roles Jane had always been interested in employment and HR related matters. Now, she combines that interest with her leadership skills and passion for high quality service and growing strong client relationships. Jane said, “I’m much more impressed by people’s attitude and approach to learning than I am by the letters after their name.” On joining LAW, Jane found a business in good shape, but hiding its light under a bushel. The service quality was high, and the team was tight-knit and talented, but the organisation lacked marketing expertise, and struggled to stand out from the crowd. LAW’s growth since launch in 2001 had been organic, but there were clear opportunities for further progress. Having excelled in national marketing roles in UK corporates, Jane focused on identifying LAW’s strengths and differentiators, researched the competition in depth, and kicked off a radical re-branding exercise. Two years on, she can take credit for having achieved a transformation of a previously hidden sleeping beauty. Leading from the front, Jane has invigorated the team and developed several new products and services. The changes have enabled the company to target new opportunities, and reach into new sectors across Scotland, and the UK. One of her top priorities has been to maintain and improve the company’s market-leading client retention rate. Jane said, “One of my core beliefs is that a thinking business takes great care of its people, and asks them to treat clients in exactly the same way. A great place to work, is a great company to do business with.” “I encourage people to remember that work is only part of their life. It’s important, and I expect people to give 100% to their jobs, but no one ever died wishing they’d spent more time at the office. “I’m committed to helping staff who want to work part-time and flexibly. The pay-back far outweighs any minor inconvenience caused.” Earlier this summer the company’s majority shareholder decided the time was right to sell the business. Led by Magnus Swanson, the company’s chairman and one of Scotland’s top corporate lawyers, Jane and Donald MacKinnon, LAW’s legal services director, completed a management buy out in August. The MBO was supported by the staff and clients have responded very positively to the company’s decision to go independent. The move to new premises in Glasgow and Edinburgh in October signals the continued growth of this leading, fixed-fee provider of employment law and health and safety services. ■


BUSINESS WOMEN SCOTLAND

“I’m mu ch mo re im pre ssed by people ’s att itud e an d app roa ch to lea rnin g tha n I a m by the lett ers aft er the ir na me.” Jane Wright

Quick Question

Q:

What do you do in your spare time? I’m a keen runner and regularly enter races across Scotland. I have a number of marathons under my belt and still strive to improve my times. I also love good food, wine, theatre, cinema and having new adventures!

A:

Q:

Do you switch on your computer at the weekend? I always switch on my Mac, but, that’s nothing to do with work. I rarely work at weekends.

A:

Q:

Best piece of advice received?

A:

Q:

Top Tips For Success ✔ Be absolutely passionate about your brand – your enthusiasm is contagious.

✔ Learn from, and listen to, your clients and your people – their insight is invaluable.

✔ Have, and promote, a healthy work/life balance – the work you put into the hours is more important than the hours you work.

✔ Be real, rather than look good – role model authentic leadership. ✔ Expect, and set high, standards and hold people to those standards - including yourself!

✔ Remember to have fun – life is short enough as it is.

Treat people fairly on the way up – you might meet them on the way down…

Best quality in yourself?

I don’t take myself too seriously - I’m happy to have a laugh at my own expense. Other than that, you’d have to ask those who know me.

A:

Q:

Your one piece of advice to other women thinking of changing sectors? It’s easier than you might think. Be confident in your leadership, coaching and management skills; knowledge is not difficult to acquire. Take the time to learn from your new colleagues they’re a great source of insight and inspiration.

A:

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SQUARE CIRCLE HR LTD human resources consultancy & employment law

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Why not take the ‘hassle’ out of handling HR issues? As your HR Partner we can provide peace of mind that you have the support in place to handle all employment matters or people issues within your organisation, to help ensure that your employees are treated fairly, that your business is complying with employment legislation and help protect against tribunal action. Our approach is to develop a sound knowledge of your business, to provide personalised practical 'hands on' support, often at your premises, guiding you through or handling issues on your behalf. Our service covers all aspects of the ‘Business Support Lifecycle’. As well as the day to day support we can also tackle projects and run these for you as part of your business management team. In short we offer a complete outsourced HR solution, as much or as little support as your business requires.

Business Support Lifecycle > RECRUITMENT & INDUCTION: job descriptions • advertising • interviewing • competency-based selection • induction > DOCUMENTATION: employment contracts • HR policies • legal awareness > TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT: training needs • development plans • management coaching • change management • performance management > BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT: appraisal • absence • discipline and grievance • poor performers • communications • remuneration and benefits • culture change > EXIT STRATEGY: dismissal • redundancy • compromise agreements

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www.squarecirclehr.com

Cert No. 9697

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Q

BUSINESS WOMEN SCOTLAND

uick uestion

Pamela Anderson, Senior HR Consultant at Square Circle HR Ltd, answers our questions on HR issues, including the recent pension reform and appropriate disciplinary procedures.

Pamela Anderson Senior HR Consultant Square Circle HR Ltd

Q:

What are my responsibilities as an employer relating to my employees’ activity on social media?

A:

Under the Protection from Harassment Act 1997 employers are required to tackle anti-social behaviour between employees online, even if it occurs out with working hours. In failing to do so employers may be held liable for the online harassment of one employee by another. There are numerous ways to tackle online bullying; a simple example is to introduce an anonymous reporting procedure allowing individuals to disclose information regarding inappropriate online activity. Ensuring you have a Computers, Internet and Email Policy is important, which should include social media and online harassment.

Q:

How will the recent changes to the pension’s law affect my organisation?

A:

The pension reform now means that every employer must automatically enroll certain workers into a qualifying workplace pension scheme and make contributions. This will be

staged in over six years, starting with large employers. Information is available to help employers understand their obligations and when it will affect them. A useful link with further information is, www.thepensionsregulator.gov.uk

Q:

I am considering disciplining a staff member due to unacceptable conduct. Other employees and customers have complained about the employee but when I have confronted them they have completely denied it, what should I do next?

A:

You should carry out an investigation to gather more information. If you are the person carrying out the investigation then you cannot conduct any subsequent disciplinary meeting. Interview staff members and customers, if the information is reliable and supports the allegations you would meet with the employee and give them another opportunity comment or raise any other information in their defence. There is no right to be accompanied at an investigation meeting (unless your policy says otherwise). Check with any witness that their statement is accurate and

...employers are required to tackle anti-social behaviour between employees online...

explain that it may be relied upon as evidence. If after investigation there is insufficient evidence or the conduct is not serious enough to lead to disciplinary action you should still let the employee know that while there is no disciplinary action being taken at this time, you will record the discussion (a file note) and explain that any further allegations would be investigated and may lead to disciplinary action. If the evidence is sufficient and the allegations are considered serious enough then you would notify the employee in writing that they are required to attend a disciplinary meeting. It is recommended that you give at least 24 hours’ notice and longer (up to 5 days) for more serious cases (check notice in your Disciplinary Policy). You would inform them of their statutory right to be accompanied at the meeting and send them any notes or statements from the investigation and explain why they are being asked to attend a disciplinary meeting. If you do not have a suitable person internally to conduct the disciplinary meeting it is acceptable to appoint an external person such as a HR consultant, a non-executive director, board member etc. The same applies for investigation and appeal meetings. Square Circle HR Ltd Pentagon Centre 36 Washington Street, Glasgow G3 8AZ Tel: 0141 248 7826 www.squarecirclehr.com

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Finish work jumpin caR Radio on pick up dinner open door good to be home eat snack feed dog change clothes

go to open evening a p p ly f o r m a s t e r s

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BUSINESS WOMEN SCOTLAND

Focus on...

013

ABERDEEN To stand out in an increasingly competitive crowd, many women are learning that a postgraduate qualification can really help enhance their career.

A

LL industries, be they in the energy, finance, construction and retail sectors, face continuous transformation. This can be down to factors including environmental issues, changing patterns in service and product development, fragmentation, legislation and the diversification of activities within organisations. Throughout history, women have naturally adapted to change and learned to manage it. Those in business relish a fast-paced environment that calls upon every aspect of their experience, knowledge and skill. To stand out in an increasingly competitive crowd, many women are learning that a postgraduate qualification can really help enhance their career. Robert Gordon University’s (RGU) Aberdeen Business School is one of the leading providers of management and professional education in Scotland. It consistently ranks highly in leading university guides and has approval from over twenty professional bodies. Many of the courses are delivered through the flexible study options of fulltime, part-time and distance learning and subjects areas include: an AMBA accredited MBA programme; Accounting and Finance; Communication, Marketing and Media; Energy Management; Human

Resource Management; Leadership; Library and Information Management; Law; Mediation; and Project and Operations Management. Courses are delivered by academics with relevant industry experience. Strong links with various sectors and the inclusion of industry placements and projects ensure that course content is relevant to industry requirements and graduates are effectively prepared for the workplace. Professor Rita Marcella, Dean of Aberdeen Business School, said: “As a modern professional university we appreciate the importance of pertinent degree content that relates to the real life working environment of the Scottish business woman. Our accredited courses have been developed as a result of industry demand and are recognised by the global energy sector.” Professional study is recommended for anyone whether happy in their role or looking for a new challenge and similarly suitable for those who already have a qualification or have worked their way up the career ladder. In times when skills gaps are widening and the word ‘recession’ is commonly bandied about, a postgraduate degree course can provide a competitive advantage; expanding knowledge and building on experience in ever growing and changing industries.

Throughout history, women have naturally adapted to change and learned to manage it.

Professor Rita Marcella

Aberdeen Business School @ RGU

Robert Gordon University Aberdeen Business School Garthdee Campus, Garthdee Rd Aberdeen AB10 7QE Tel: 01224 262 203 Email: mba@rgu.ac.uk www.rgu.ac.uk/mba


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BUSINESS WOMEN SCOTLAND

Once upon a

time...

The third of this issues ‘Once upon a time...’ profiles focuses on the team behind Peapod - a hidden grotto of exceptional vintage items based in Aberdeen Clare Milne, Angela Barnett, Lesley Anne Naylor & June Mountain. By Stephanie Smart

Left-Right: Lesley, Angela, June & Claire.

Names:

Clare Milne, Angela Barnett, Lesley Anne Naylor & June Mountain Company: Peapod Location: Aberdeen

www.peapodaberdeen.co.uk

R

ECENTLY opened in the hub of Aberdeen’s West End is Peapod - the city’s one and only vintage furniture and fashion shop. Peapod is a treasure trove of items sourced from a variety of places, such as house clearings and auctions. “I’ve become such a bad driver,” jokes partner Angela. “My eyes are always on the lookout for something to pick up!” Take a visit to Peapod and prepare to be transfixed by the sheer abundance of vintage items: designer clothing, beautiful handcrafted furniture and an assortment of home accessories. The new-found success of the shop is down to a powerhouse of four women, each with different occupational backgrounds but who have one vision: to take the old and make it new again. Peapod was originally founded by Aberdeen born and bred Claire Milne (34). Owning her own business began when Claire won an Aberdeen competition, Retail Rocks, in which six individuals were given ownership of a shop for a year to help rejuvenate an underdeveloped area of Aberdeen. Despite fierce competition, Claire’s success led to the first Peapod: a vintage shop which Claire ran with the help of her husband and parents and with the Council’s support. “Retail Rocks


BUSINESS WOMEN SCOTLAND

was a brilliant starting point for those who wanted to own a business, but didn’t know where to start”, said Claire. “I had spent a lot of my childhood watching my dad doing up furniture and I had a keen interest in all things creative. We knew that if the business was still going strong after a year then it could become independent and be developed further. I was pregnant throughout the competition, which led to the name Peapod.” It quickly became clear that the business could be taken further and that relocating it into the centre of town would suit Claire’s family commitments. “I began to think of likeminded people who could help me run the now-independent business. That’s when I approached Angela, Lesley and June, and the business has escalated from there. Our store is located in an old butchers, and although replacing the old tiles on the walls may have been too much work for other businesses, they couldn’t be more perfect with the atmosphere of the shop. Its little things like that which has made our business unique and quirky. When we saw the building, we just knew we were doing the right thing.” A long-standing companion of Claire is Angela Barnett (42), who has an extensive fashion retail history. Throughout her time at Aberdeen University, Angela collected and modelled vintage clothing and worked part-time in a clothing shop. After graduating, she was offered an Assistant Manager position, which led to more managerial positions in various fashion shops including Topshop in 2000. This is where Angela met Claire and the two remained firm friends, even though Angela left Topshop to start a family and then to work as a Fashion Buyer for an Aberdeen clothing shop. However, Angela’s love for vintage fashion prompted her to accept Claire’s offer of founding Peapod. “It was a huge leap of faith”, said Angela. “I feel very lucky though. I have a job doing something I love and which works around my family.” Also part of the Peapod team is Lesley Anne Naylor (42). Lesley originally studied Biology with Ecology and worked as a countryside ranger in Aberdeen Council’s Arts and Recreation Department. But her passion for arts and crafts and an extensive creative input from her family led her to a job with Peapod. “My husband and I had a lot of family tragedies, so we decided to take a grown-up gap year and tour Europe with our children. I returned to Aberdeen without a job, but attending a local upholstery class encouraged a passion for redesigning furniture. “I began to sell my crafts to various shops, including Claire’s Peapod shop in Torry,” said Lesley. “The ball started rolling from there. I had already met Angela from having children at the same school, and when Claire approached me about being involved with Peapod, I couldn’t resist. It was the right time for me to try something like this, and although it’s a huge business opportunity, it’s an even bigger business experience.” The fourth woman making up the Peapod team is June Mountain (48). June’s main interest lies in upholstery, and she has an exceptional talent for matching the right furniture with beautiful but quirky fabrics. Her interest prompted her to undertake the same upholstery course as Lesley, where the two women met and became firm friends. Wanting to take her interest to a professional level, June attended a residential upholstery course in Kendal. Like Lesley, she sold her creations to Claire’s shop and the growing friendship between June, Lesley and Angela prepared the way for Peapod. One of Peapod’s most striking assets is the professional, yet distinctly friendly relationship between the four partners. “We’ve found that working as a team has remarkably helped our business”, says Angela. “Starting a business in today’s economic climate may seem daunting - if not questionable. But the burdens and responsibilities are shared between the four of us, and because we all have similar commitments with families, it means we understand the different strains that life can place on work, and we can help each other out.” “The nature of the job means it’s essential to have a team of workers”, agreed Lesley. “It’s not just hours put in on the shop front. We have to source items from throughout Britain - sometimes further - but because we have a team who have agreed to be open and honest with each other from the outset, we can spend time researching and sourcing items without it affecting the running of the business.” So just as each vintage item in Peapod has its own story - be it a Chanel handbag found in Italy or a newlywed’s first tea-set - Claire, Angela, Lesley and June each have their own story. And despite these different stories, these four exceptionally talented and driven women act as a testament to how different skills and talents and a genuine understanding of life’s stresses and strains are needed to create an all-rounded and complete team. ■

Quick Question

Q:

Any plans for expanding the business in the future? Lesley said: “We’re a relatively new business and because there’s so much financial uncertainty around today, it wouldn’t be realistic to say that we’ll be opening shops across the city within a few months. Peapod has got off to a brilliant start and because our skills and talents are transferable, Peopod would still exist even if we didn’t own a shop.”

A:

Q:

Do you have any advice for someone looking at starting a business? Angela’s advice is to keep costs down to enable flexibility and the potential for growth. Draw on your own resources and the help of others, for example, the women’s husbands and partners helped to decorate the shop. Claire said that ‘co-op’ is definitely the way forward as it helps to share the problems and responsibilities of running a business.

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B U S I N E S S women scotland bws subscription Like the ladies who contributed to the current issue of Business Women Scotland you could also be a part of this exciting magazine by subscribing and never missing an issue! One year’s subscription includes the next six issues delivered direct to your home or office, including delivery, for a one off fee of...

£26

.00

Contact the BWS team for further information, or to start enjoying your subscription,

0141 332 8801 • subs@bwsltd.co.uk • www.bwsltd.co.uk

Also... to attend our BWS events visit www.bwsltd.co.uk


BUSINESS WOMEN SCOTLAND

Holiday Inn

....celebrating big birthdays

As everyone knows, 2012 has been the year the world celebrated the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II... however what not so many people realise is that another global institution shares the same anniversary this year - HOLIDAY INN.

H

oliday Inn, one of the world’s most iconic brands, this year marks the 60th Anniversary of the opening of the first Holiday Inn hotel in Memphis Tennessee. The brand, founded by Kemmons Wilson in 1952, has grown to 3,375 hotels globally across its family of brands, which includes Holiday Inn, Holiday Inn Express, Holiday Inn Resorts and Holiday Inn Club Vacations. And as the brand turns 60, two Glasgow hotels also share special birthdays.

Sweet 16 In 1996, after a lengthy absence, the Holiday Inn name was brought back to Glasgow, when legendary Scottish hospitality guru, Maurice Taylor, opened Holiday Inn in the city’s Theatreland district (a phrase coined by Taylor himself). Originally opened as an 80 bedroom hotel, over the years, on-going investment has seen the creation of 33 additional bedrooms, as well as the L’Orangerie Conservatory. And, the property enjoyed a £1m refurbishment in 2010 to include all public areas, bedrooms and function suites.

Teenage Kicks The unparalleled success of the Theatreland hotel gave Taylor the confidence, back in 1999, to open the 88 bedroom Holiday Inn Express, adjacent to its sister hotel, in which he further invested a couple of years later, with the addition of an additional 30 rooms. Since opening, both hotels have been regular attendees at both national and international award ceremonies, and each in its own right is a multi-award winner for many aspects of its offering, including customer service, food and beverage excellence. Today, at the ‘teenage’ Express, like its ‘older’ neighbour, business is booming, with occupancy levels in each hotel consistently in excess of 80%. However back in 1999, many questioned the wisdom of Taylor’s decision to have rival branded hotels on the same site. He, of course, proved them all wrong, as he explains, ‘’Glasgow is a city which welcomes a myriad of different visitors with differing requirements from a hotel, so we can satisfy the needs of more guests by offering them a choice of

brands. Holiday Inn provides a familiar, convenient and reliable experience providing guests with services that meet the guest’s real needs, appealing to guests who are sociable and want to feel relaxed and cared for. The Holiday Inn brand is a full service hotel and features hallmarks such as Kids Eat Free. Holiday Inn Express provides an efficient experience delivered in a way that’s stimulating, appealing to guests who want a hotel where they can stay on their own terms while managing their money wisely. The brand features hallmarks such as the Express Start Breakfast Bar which is free.’’ And servicing guests at both hotels, of course, is La Bonne Auberge brasserie, which in its own right, has attracted its fair share of awards, not to mention fans, from all across the city and beyond, over the years! Today, Alan Taylor (no relation) and Tracey Sweeney oversee the day to day management of Holiday Inn and Express respectively, and as Alan notes, ‘It is incredible that 2012 is such a landmark year not only for the Holiday Inn brand itself, but for our two outstanding hotels. For 60 years, the Holiday Inn name has been associated with success, and we will be raising a glass to toast that and our own achievements, as we celebrate our 13th and 16th birthdays. However, we don’t rest on our laurels and we will all continue to work hard and play our part to ensure that the Holiday Inn brand remains the best in Glasgow… and beyond!’ Holiday Inn 161 West Nile Street, Glasgow G1 2RL Tel: 0141 352 8300 www.higlasgow.com Holiday Inn Express

Holiday Inn and Holiday Inn Express in the Glasgow’s Theatreland district

165 West Nile Street, Glasgow G1 2RL Tel: 0141 331 6800 www.hiexpressglasgow.co.uk

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BUSINESS GATEWAY.BWS18

In with the new at...

2/10/12

19:08

Page 1

Advertorial

ONE TEN BAR & GRILL

A

S the old saying goes, ‘The only constant is change’…and that’s definitely the story at the hugely popular One Ten Bar & Grill in Glasgow’s Bath Street, as a veteran of the Scottish scene takes up the reins in the kitchen. Respected Head Chef Jim Finan (pictured) brings over 20 years industry experience to the 60 seater restaurant, located in the heart of the city, and it’s a prospect he’s very excited about! Chef Finan comments,“I’ve worked in a variety of different hotels and restaurants over the years, indeed I started my career working under the legendary Frank Boggie at the Albany Hotel and learned so much, in my time with him, as he encouraged me to experiment with a la carte dishes to make them my own. Over the years, my menus have become increasingly eclectic, because, like many in my profession, the explosion of ‘celebrity chefs’ had a real impact on me. For me, while there are bigger names out there, it was personalities including Rick Stein and Gary Rhodes who really made me re-think old school favourites.” Joining Jim in the kitchen brigade will be Glasgowbased Derek McGarvey, who has been promoted to Sous Chef. General Manager Karen Burke notes, “Derek has been with us for a number of years, and although he has worked in the industry for many years, during his tenure here, he has been the Breakfast Chef, so hasn’t had the chance to show off his skills in the way he would have liked. Chef Finan, however, very quickly realised that Derek is an immense talent who was ready to take up the challenge and we are delighted to give Derek the chance to really shine.” This autumn, Chef Finan is set to unveil a completely revamped menu at One Ten Bar & Grill, and as well as old favourites, diners can expect to enjoy an array of mouthwatering dishes, which he describes as ‘traditional Scottish/Asian fusion’ ...so make sure you book early!

SUPPORT TO HELP YOU GROW Over the past year Business Gateway has worked with thousands of established businesses to help them grow and develop despite these challenging economic conditions. The organisation’s specialist advisory teams are involved in many business sectors supporting growth clients on a range of relevant topics from marketing and exporting to sourcing finance and recruitment issues. “Whether it’s a practical workshop, a one to one session or key business information from the website, it’s important to remember that all support and advice from Business Gateway is completely impartial and comes free of charge,” explains Hugh Lightbody from Business Gateway.” To find out how Business Gateway can help your business visit www.yourbusinessgateway.co.uk or call 0845 609 6611.

NEW MARKETS OPEN UP FOR ALVA CURTAIN COMPANY With a bulging order Turnberry book and plans to recruit a number of new staff, there is no doubt established Alva business, Campbell’s Contract Curtains Ltd, is more than weathering the current economic storm. Founded in 1979 the business (thecampbellgroup.co.uk) has experienced a number of ups and downs, but in the past 12 months Business Gateway has supported Managing Director, Lesley Osborne, as she has taken the company on to a new level. “It’s been hard work but we have a fabulous workforce and our adviser at Business Gateway, John Stewart, has been invaluable,” said Lesley. “We supply curtains and soft furnishings to some of the most prestigious hotels in the country and we are now being approached by a number of companies overseas. “Exporting throws up a range of new challenges but fortunately John was able to guide us through the process and put us in touch with other specialist organisations, including Scottish Development International.”

EVENTS Business Gateway will be running a series of events this autumn designed to help you grow your business. The workshops are held in convenient locations across Scotland and cover a range of topics including Online Trading, Exporting, Marketing, Business Planning and Employment and Skills, amongst other subjects. To find out what events are on in your area visit www.bgateway.com/events.

ONE TEN BAR & GRILL 110 Bath Street, Glasgow G2 2EN


Scan to find out more.

Growing your business? Make a Business Gateway Adviser part of your business plans. To find out if your business qualifies call

0845 287 4356 or visit

www.yourbusinessgateway.co.uk/adviser

Eligibility for one-to-one advice varies, contact 0845 287 4356 to find out if you qualify. Business Gateway services are delivered by Local Authorities, Scottish Enterprise and Scottish Government with the support of associated partner organisations. Maximum call charge from BT landline is 3p a minute.


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BUSINESS WOMEN SCOTLAND

What motivates

you?

We asked these 3 successful women in business, “What motivates you?” - Joan Robertson from Perfect Skn, Belinda Dickson OBE from Belinda Robertson Cashmere and Lesley Sawers, Chief Executive of the Scottish Council for Development and Industry.

Name:

Lesley Sawers

Company:

Scottish Council for Development & Industry

Location:

Lesley Sawers

Inverness, Aberdeen & Glasgow

S

ome people in business are motivated by money, career success or profile, but others, and I would put myself firmly in this camp, are motivated by doing the best they can, striving to do better and to do more. I’ve always believed that you should do what you enjoy, do it the best you can, and rewards will follow. Having recently met Katherine Grainger, Gold medal Olympic rower, I realise that even motivation operates on a range of levels. Gold medal motivation in sport or business requires a dedication and complete unrelenting pursuit of a goal, to the exclusion of all else. But I also know that success is a team game, personal motivation, no matter how strong, will not lead to achievement or success on its own. You also need to have the ability to inspire and motivate others to help you reach your goal. That’s the hallmark of true success. ■

Joan Robertson

Joan Robertson Perfect Skn Glasgow

www.perfectskn.co.uk

W

Belinda Dickson OBE

Company:

Belinda Robertson Cashmere

Location:

Edinburgh

www.belindarobertson.com

www.scdi.org.uk

Name: Company: Location:

Name:

hat has truly motivated me for the last number of years is to give my kids the best life I can possibly give them. Also, for myself, it’s to be the healthiest and fittest I can be, so I try to eat well and train 4 times a week. I also love learning and right now I am learning to play the piano! ■

I

f involved in anything, I believe in being committed to working hard to make a success of it. If I climb a mountain I aim to reach the peak, even if the journey does not go to plan. I always expect there to be difficult decisions on the way, most of which you cannot foresee. I enjoy these challenges, hate to feel beaten, and I am very reluctant to accept “it can’t be done” as an answer. ■ Belinda Dickson OBE



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BUSINESS WOMEN SCOTLAND

Once upon a

time...

The fourth, and final, of this issues ‘Once upon a time...’ profiles focuses on Rebecca Murray from The Murray Partnership - executive recruiters and head hunting firm.

Name:

Rebecca Murray

Company: The Murray Partnership Location:

Edinburgh

www.themurraypartnership.co.uk

W

hen she moved to Edinburgh in 2004, Rebecca Murray had been working for London-based, head hunting firm, Whitehead Mann for ten years. Rebecca had been running the firms fixed income practice, and felt there was a real opportunity to establish a successful search practice in Scotland. Her Financial Services focus made her the ideal candidate and she set up a successful practice which she managed until 2009 when the company was bought over. This change of management was just the impetus she needed to launch her own head hunting firm – The Murray Partnership. Rebecca said, “Having worked in the Scottish market for five years I had built up a body of strong client relationships which allowed me to launch my own business and also having been very much a specialist when I first moved to Scotland I had become more of a generalist over time. I’ve been very much client led and today my portfolio covers a broad spectrum of clients from AEGON to Walker Shortbread and William Grant. “I love it because I’m dealing with people day in day out and I’m really interested in what makes them tick. If it’s done in the right way it can be very rewarding because you’re helping people manage their careers. In contrast to working in the investment banking world in London, I find that in Scotland people’s drivers for changing jobs are rarely just to do with money. It’s more about career advancement and finding the right opportunity. The package is more important in Scotland – it’s not all about the bonus, the fixed elements are far more important. “I worked for a large firm for a long time and really enjoyed it, but what I also saw over the years was partners having to fight for resources. We were very fee orientated and there was a lot of pressure to achieve an annual target. Typically, I would be expected to work on seven or eight assignments at a time. However, deciding to set up on my own has been hugely liberating. My genuine desire is to work for a smaller number of clients, on a smaller number of projects which I execute really well. Every time I work on an assignment my personal reputation is on the line. “Today I work with two or three researchers who also worked at Whitehead Mann and are excellent at what they do. For me, really good research is key to the whole process. That and really developing an understanding of your clients’ culture and what’s going to work in their business. “I have deliberately decided to keep the business small and boutique-like for now. My clients really like this and they have the comfort of my experience in working for a larger firm, understanding that it doesn’t in any way impact on my ability to deliver on assignments. Would I take on an international assignment for say Dubai? – probably not – my work tends to be UK-wide but I’m very honest about what I can and can’t deliver.” This hasn’t deterred Rebecca from accepting the odd challenge however. She added, “I have taken on assignments that I never thought I’d be able to do. William Grant was one of my first clients but when they came to me with a global assignment, I initially said ‘no’. They insisted because they knew I understood their culture and values and after some deliberation I accepted and I found them a brilliant person who was actually based in Northern Ireland!”


BUSINESS WOMEN SCOTLAND

Quick Question

Q:

If you weren’t a head hunter what would you like to be?

Recently, I had four of my best friends from university to stay and we were talking about what other paths we could have followed. I said I’d like to have been an HR Director, as I think their jobs are fascinating, but one of my friends said I should have been a TV producer because I’m good at making stuff happen!

A:

Q:

Who was your pin up when you were a teenager? My favourite all time band is The Beatles but for complete silliness it was Wet Wet Wet that were on my wall.

A:

“It’ s mo re about career advan cem ent an d fin din g the right opportu nity. Th e packag e is mo re im portant in Scotla nd – it’s not all about the bon us, the fix ed ele me nts are far mo re im portant.” Rebecca Murray

“You do have to invest time in building relationships with people. In Scotland this can take time but clients are loyal and will stick with you and this has been borne out by some of the clients who gave me my first opportunities when I set up The Murray Partnership and who are still clients today. Many clients and candidates become friends too. I like that way of doing business and it seems to work for me. “This is not a 9 to 5 job. My work/life balance is good because I’m my own boss and I manage my time well. I’ve always made calls at night but it’s really important that I can pick up my children from school – I share that with my husband who is an entrepreneur and incredibly supportive. He gives me the leverage I need but at the same time head hunting fits itself well around having a family. I work very hard but I also work very hard at having a good balance. “Over time, if I came across likeminded partners I’d be open to discussions, but at the moment it would have to be a very special person. I offer a rigorous, proactive and professional service tailored specifically to an individual client’s needs and that is something I intend to continue. Of course, I want to grow my revenue and my client base but I want to keep it personal, boutique and differentiate myself by my results.” ■

Q:

What’s your favourite way to relax? Eating and drinking! My husband has a small wine business and knows a lot about wine so we always have lovely wine in the house. I’m not very wineliterate but I like drinking good wine. So a favourite way to relax is with Andy with steak, salad and chips with a lovely bottle of red wine and a good chat. I love spending time with my children too but as I have two very active boys, that isn’t quite so relaxing!

A:

Q:

What are you reading at the moment? The honest answer is that I have a number of books on my bedside table. I’ve got a Rachel Crowther book which is my new book club book, Alan Hollinghurst’s The Stranger’s Child which is brilliant and I’m really looking forward to reading the latest Ian McEwan.

A:

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BUSINESS WOMEN SCOTLAND

Q

uick uestion

DR Emma Ravichandran, Scotland’s Leading Aesthetic Doctor and Director of Clinetix Rejuvenation, answers our questions on mouth area and lip rejuvenation treatments.

Emma Ravichandran Director Clinetix Rejuvenation and Clinetix Training Academy

G

IVEN the amount of media attention that has focused on celebrities with bad lip treatments, it is quite common for our clients to be apprehensive when it comes to discussing lip rejuvenation treatments. Ageing of the mouth area and lips can reduce a persons confidence. Rejuvenating the mouth area can significantly boost someones confidence and quality of life. Our understanding of lip rejuvenation is that if it looks like you’ve had lip work done then it’s been done badly. This article gives insight and information into peri-oral rejuvenation, a treatment process that can cost between £200 and £500, depending on the amount of correction required.

Q: A:

Will colleagues know I have had a lip treatment? Generally we are not looking to vastly increase the size of the lips, we are identifying the signs that are associated with ageing and simply correcting them. By restoring the natural shape, contours and volume of the lips we can drastically improve the appearance in a way that looks natural. Colleagues should notice you looking well, but usually they don’t notice the lips.

Q: A:

What about the lines around my lips, the smokers lines, can they be removed? Yes, the lines around the lips, sometimes called smokers lines are one of the signs of ageing that can be corrected using a combination of techniques, correcting the skin above and below the lip is part of the process of restoring the natural structure and support of the entire area. This is often done as part of a lip rejuvenation procedure.

Q: A:

My mouth turns down at the corners making me look sad, can you do anything for that? This is known as a descendent oral comissure and is the product of soft tissue volume loss and sometimes excessive muscle action under the mouth. This can be addressed as part of a lip rejuvenation procedure with both Botox injections and dermal fillers.

Q: A:

What should I expect from the treatment? Your consultation should involve a full physical assessment of your face and lips, this is to identify the specific signs of ageing and get a realistic idea of what it should look like after correction. Ideally photographs should be taken then looked at together with your Doctor who will use them to explain what is involved. An anaesthetic should be used, some people use a cream but we prefer to use simple dental anaesthetics to completely numb the area. Injections are then made to place a dermal filler in specific areas within and around the lips to provide volume, support, contour and definition. The treatment should take between 30 minutes to an hour. Immediately after the treatment your lips may be a little swollen but this usually settles down significantly within a few hours and completely in 24hrs. Most people tend to get the treatment after work and then go to work as normal the next day. Your Doctor should arrange to see you a few weeks after the treatment to make sure you are happy with the outcome. Depending on the type of dermal fillers used, you can expect the treatment to last from 6 to 12 months.

Clinetix Rejuvenation Tel: 0800 917 5542 Before treatment to lips

or Tel: 0141 221 0229 After treatment to lips

www.clinetix.co.uk


OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2012

www.bwsltd.co.uk

BUSINESS women scotland

lifestyle section

027

027 WINTER WONDER WARDROBE This seasons winter wardrobe look.

030

032

DARE TO BE BOLD Sara Hill, Make-up Artist and Director of The Academy of Make-up, dares us to be bold this winter, with 2 new looks.

032 HEALTH AND WELLBEING New products to maintain our health and wellbeing.

030

033 ASK ANNE Anne Ferguson - director of celebrity stylist Taylor Ferguson Hairdressing - to provide expert advice and answers for all your haircare questions.

035 EAT FAT TO LOSE FAT Amanda Hamilton, nutritionalist, entrepreneur, health guru and television presenter, highlights the benefits of some fats, and why to our diet they can be ‘essential’.

036

036 GOING WITH THE FLOW Filippo Berio present two recipes sure to get your mouth watering this winter.

038 A FLEETING YEAR FOR SHEILA The jewellery hall in Frasers Glasgow, was the backdrop for the 1st anniversary VIP gathering for customers and new young fans of the Sheila Fleet brand.


MAINS OF TAYMOUTH.BWS15

2/4/12

11:51

Page 1

Discover your

STYLE

Complete personal styling services including: Personal Shopping Wardrobe Organisation Style Update Image Overhaul

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by quoting BWS Magazine

tel: 07931 143 559 email: victoria@victoriamartinstyle.com

www.victoriamartinstyle.com @victoriamstyle

Real

Freedom, Lu xu r y, Scotland

Tel: 01887 830 226 • Email: info@taymouth.co.uk www.taymouth.co.uk

+44 (0)1700 811075 info@portavadiemarina.com portavadiemarina.com

Fyne Festive Fun Set in a beautiful part of Argyll, less than 60 miles from Glasgow, this striking destination is the perfect base for your festive celebrations. With a host of events, dinners and special menus, there’s something for everyone. - Festive Market menu 7-24 December 2012 - Christmas Party night 15 December 2012

- Christmas Day Lunch – Hogmanay Gala Dinner – Hogmanay Buffet and Dance – Great festive breaks

Gift vouchers available. Quote BWscot when booking.


l if e st y l e

BUSINESS WOMEN SCOTLAND

Winter wonder

wardrobe GREY SWEATER, £75, and NEON YELLOW SNOOD, £49, Pied a Terre at Frasers and NEON YELLOW HAT, £45, Ted Baker at Frasers, houseoffrasers.co.uk

Summer trends may be fun and flirty, but winter dressing is when the real fashionista’s come out to play! Stylist, Victoria Martin and Make-up Artist Sara Hill reveal their tops tips for winter alongside some fabulous must-have fashion...

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BUSINESS WOMEN SCOTLAND

l if e st y l e

“ Winter dressing is when the real fashionista’s come out to play!”

BLUE VOLUME DRESS, £135, ORANGE SUEDE BAG, £165, and SCARF, £50, Mary Portas at Frasers houseoffrasers.co.uk

VICTORIA MARTIN - STYLIST

Summer trends may be fun and flirty but winter dressing is when the real fashionista’s come out to play! Fine sweaters are perfect for layering and look fabulous with bright accessories, whilst the spring/summer neon trend looks set to continue as the temperature drops. Pair your day-glow knitwear with subtle prints for maximum impact. Channel your inner Lauren Hutton in a single, rich and luxurious tone from head-to-toe and finish the look off with some statement jewellery. Autumn/winter dresses take many different forms and have something for every shape and size. Oversized and voluminous dresses are perfect for casual yet stylish weekend dressing whilst leather, suede and lots of studs are the key details to look out for an instant update to your winter wardrobe. And don’t be afraid to indulge in a hint of heritage with some patriotic tartan attire, especially if it’s in the form of Alexander McQueen... DEEP RED TROUSERS, £120, DEEP RED COAT, £255, and WHITE BLOUSE, £125, Mary Portas at Frasers houseoffrasers.co.uk DEEP RED NECKLACE, £12.99, New Look, newlook.com

NEON PINK SWEATER, £25, and PRINTED TROUSERS, £32.50, Limited at Marks and Spencer, mands.com BLACK COURT HEELS, £100, Ted Baker at Office, office.co.uk


l if e st y l e

BUSINESS WOMEN SCOTLAND

TARTAN DRESS, £600, McQ by Alexander McQueen at Frasers, PURPLE SUEDE BAG, £79, Mary Portas at Frasers, ANKLE WEDGE BOOTS, £120, Mary Portas for Clarks at Frasers, houseoffrasers.co.uk

BLACK LEATHER AND SUEDE PANELED DRESS, £220, Edition at Debenhams, debenhams.com BLUE SNAKE PRINT CLUTCH, £99, Pied a Terre at Frasers, houseoffrasers.co.uk

BLACK STUDDED PLEATED DRESS, £60, and BLACK STUDDED LEATHER CLUTCH, £26, Warehouse at Debenhams, debenhams.com ANKLE WEDGE BOOTS, £120, Mary Portas for Clarks at Frasers, houseoffrasers.co.uk

“ Dare to be bold this winter!” BY SARA HILL - MAKE-UP ARTIST

Try using a kaleidoscope of colours to create this seasons hottest new look for the eyes. My top tip is to put two similar tones side by side on your eyelid, like purple and blue, and then with your small brush put a dot of gold or silver in the inner corner. Metallics are always good for the party season, why not try a slick of gold and silver liner and keep the rest of your face in neutral tones. Lip trends are berry bold this winter, think Snow White dark plummy red lips and wintery flushed cheeks. PHOTOGRAPHER Angela Stewart, www.angelastewartphotography.com STYLIST Victoria Martin, www.victoriamartinstyle.co.uk ART DIRECTOR AND MAKE-UP ARTIST Sara Hill, represented by Colours Agency, Academy Director, The Academy of Make-up, 93 Hope street, Glasgow G2 6LD Tel: 0141 227 6785, Email: info@theacademyofmakeup.com www.theacademyofmakeup.com HAIR STYLIST Martine Carroll, also represented by Colours Agency MODEL Adriana Bucur and Natasha Luwedde from Colours Agency, www.coloursagency.com

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BUSINESS WOMEN SCOTLAND

l if e st y l e

Dare to be Sara Hill, Make-up Artist and Director of The Academy of Make-up, dares us to be bold this winter, and has included two of this seasons hottest make-up looks for us to try out...

Look One: Eye Trend

bold To m Fo rd, E C o lou r Qu a y e d

M AC Lip stick

Laura Mercier, Eye Basics - Wheat Tom Ford, Eye Defining Pencil - 02 Onyx M.A.C, Eyeshadow Sketch (Velvet) Laura Mercier, Eyebrow Pencil - Blonde M.A.C, Eyeshadow Nehru (Matte) M.A.C, Pigment Colour Powder - Rose Gold Tom Ford, Eye Colour Quad - Cobalt Rush Maybelline, Soft Khol Eye Pencil - Emerald L’oreal, Volume Shocking Mascara - Carbon Black Laura Mercier, Tinted Moisturizer Illuminating Bare Radiance M.A.C, Select Colour Concealer - NW30 M.A.C, Contour Shades M.A.C, Lips - Fleshpot AC0

L a u ra T i nt ed M e rci e r, Ill u m M oi st u ri ze r i n at i n g

PHOTOGRAPHER: Ang ela Stewart, angelaste wartphotography.com MAKE-UP: Sara Hill, rep resented by Colours Age ncy, theacademyofma HAIR: Martine Carroll keup.com , represented by Colou rs Agency, coloursagenc y.com


l if e st y l e Ey e Fo rd, Pe n cil m o T ni ng i De f

BUSINESS WOMEN SCOTLAND

Look Two: Lip Trend Laura Mercier, Eye Basics - Wheat Laura Mercier, Tinted Moisturizer Illuminating Bare Radiance Laura Mercier, Lip Liner Very Cherry M.A.C, lipstick - Diva A31 Bella Pierre, Mineral Foundation - Ivory M.A.C, Eyeshadow M.A.C, Blush - Peachy Keen Tom Ford, Eye Defining Pencil - 02 onyx We Are Faux, Lashes

MAC Blush

We A re Fa ux

The Academy of Make-up Professional Brush Set ONLINE EXCLUSIVE, £110 (RETAIL VALUE £290)

Made of the highest quality sable hair, this brush-set will give you all the tools you need to apply your make-up like a true professional an ideal gift for Christmas or for someone starting out in the beauty industry. Created by celebrity and fashion make-up artist and director of the academy of make-up Sara Hill available to purchase on-line at www.theacademyofmakeup.com

L a sh es

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BUSINESS WOMEN SCOTLAND

lifestyle

health & wellbeing

With health and wellbeing paramount in many of your lives, we’ve chosen a few products to help the cause!

Back to Natural Eating With an alarming increase in obesity and ill health many have turned to a primalesque, caveman type diet. This involves swapping out processed foods in favour of natural, whole foods in the quest for optimal health and to obtain a lower weight. This new book, written by Emily Jane Whiteley, who is not a physician or a dietician, proves that it’s possible to make delicious and highly nutritious meals minus grains and refined sugars. All the recipes use only natural wholesome ingredients that are grain free (and therefore gluten free), sugar free, high in protein and low in carbohydrate the ultimate primal-esque diet. Back to Natural Eating – Recipes by Emily Jane (Whiteley Publishing), from £24.95, www.amazon.co.uk

A Cherry Good Idea Drinking tart cherry juice has been scientifically proven to help you get a good nights sleep. Tart cherries are one of the very few known good food sources of melatonin - the chemical our brains need to help regulate sleep, aid with jet lag, prevent memory loss and delay the ageing process. Reduced melatonin levels can lead to difficulty initiating and maintaining sleep and waking too soon from sleep - all causes of insomnia. Regular sleep patterns are essential to restore energy and give the body a chance to detoxify and repair whilst also protecting from chronic health problems including Type II diabetes and heart disease. Two glasses of tart cherry juice a day will help you sleep around 25 minutes extra a night by increasing levels of melatonin, the hormone which regulates sleep, according to a study at Northumbria University. Cherrygood products all contain the juice of tart Montmorency cherries. There are five drinks in the range, including newly launched Cherrygood Plus which contains 1000 pressed Montmorency cherries. For stockists visit www.cherrygood.com

The Scent of Innocence For many people relaxing at home alongside a beautifully scented candle is a real treat. With this in mind the Jo Malone Blackberry and Bay Home Candle is truly special. Inspired by childhood memories of blackberry picking a burst of deep, tart blackberry juice, blending with the freshness of just-gathered bay and brambly woods. Burn time is 45 hours and candle Includes lid and complimentary Jo Malone matches. Blackberry & Bay Home Candle, £38, www.jomalone.com


lifestyle

BUSINESS WOMEN SCOTLAND

Ask...

anne Every issue we invite Anne Ferguson - director of celebrity stylist Taylor Ferguson Hairdressing - to provide expert advice and answers for all your haircare questions.

Q:

I like a big look with my long hair and I regularly use curling tongs to achieve big floppy curls which I love. The problem I have is using a spray that works well with the look I’ve achieved – some of them tend to weigh it down and I lose that ‘just done’ look fairly rapidly. Any advice?

A:

We love that big look too and when clients request it we use the excellent Schwarzkopf Glamour Queen volume spray (pictured) which has a dual effect. Not only is it perfectly suited for those big hair looks but it’s fairly pliable so you can move and tweak the style before it fixes in place. A great handbag accessory for that mid-evening boost to your hair at a cost of £15 per can.

Q:

My 51 year old boss has a very stressful job and thinks it’s contributed to her hair becoming thin. Her doctor reckons it’s an age thing and she needs to stop worrying about it. I feel her confidence is taking a knock and suggested hair extensions. She’s not sure. How can I convince her that this is a solution?

A:

A half head of extensions may be all she needs to maximise that volume and give her hair a more lustrous appearance. No-one would know –

especially if she opts for the Great Lengths cold fusion bonding system which minimises the bonds and therefore makes them more natural looking. I have worn a half head of extensions for more than a decade now and I’d defy anyone to guess I had them in my hair. A half head will cost from around £400.

Q:

I use a combined shampoo/conditioner, but recently feel that there’s a residual build-up that’s left my hair looking lack-lustre and feeling almost greasy-like. Can you recommend a solution?

A:

Yes, indeed I can – STOP using that product! Some products are created with an aim to suit all hair types but unfortunately that can’t be easily achieved. In terms of restoring your hair’s condition to it’s best, consult a salon offering in-salon conditioning treatments. We’re currently favouring the Kerastase Fusio-Dose system (pictured) which uses concentrated active ingredients which we ‘blend’ or fuse to suit individual hair needs. We offer the treatment for £25. Your hair should look and feel instantly transformed.

Q:

My toddler is needing his first haircut and I’m nervous about how he’ll be when we go to the salon. Can I do anything to keep him calm?

A:

Take junior to the salon with you for a few visits in advance, but don’t have his hair cut. Let him see you having your hair done and let the stylist chat and play with him when he’s around the chair. We recently installed a special chair – based on a toy car (pictured) – for our junior visitors and it’s made a massive difference. We can’t get them off it now!

Taylor Ferguson Hairdressing 106 Bath Street, Glasgow G2 2EN Tel: 0141 332 0397 www.taylorferguson.com

033


ESTEEM BEAUTY SPECIALISED BEAUTY TREATMENTS

S

EMI-PERMANENT MAKE-UP is a long-lasting smudge free cosmetic treatment that highlights and enhances natural beauty - and lasts up to three years. If you have a busy life then this is the perfect treatment for you. Semi-permanent make-up is especially beneficial for those who value their appearance, active or energetic people, or anybody who desires consistently natural looking make-up that lasts and stays true in shape. Semi-permanent make-up is also ideal for those who are allergic to cosmetics, those who have difficulty applying make-up, or for those who wear contact lenses. In addition to cosmetic clients, Esteem Beauty has recently been carrying out treatments for people that have been affected with areas of hair Before loss. No treatment takes place without a full consultation, which includes a skin allergy test. The treatments are carried out following strict hygiene codes, the equipment is sterile and approved by the Health and Safety Executive and the products used are hypoallergenic. Also, aftercare support and advice is After provided with every treatment.

Esteem Beauty is Licensed by the Local Authority (Glasgow City Council) to perform this treatment. You can choose your ideal shape, style and colour of Eyebrows, upper and lower Eyeliner, Lip Liner, Full Lip Colour or Lip Light - we can even create Beauty Spots. The work is only ever carried by a skilled Linergist (the name given to the person carrying out the treatment). Kasia Ojrzynska, who is the Linergist at Esteem Beauty, is a university qualified Cosmetologist with 20 years beauty industry experience. Kasia undertook the Professional Linergist Course for Micro Pigmentation at the LONG-TIME-LINER® Training Centre in Warsaw, and then the Elite Linergist Course at the LONG-TIME-LINER® Main Education Academy in Munich. She said “The skill level required to carry out the training has, until recently, only been largely available in Europe, I am still the ONLY Elite Linergist registered in Scotland at present.” Kasia Ojrzynska

528 Great Western Road, Glasgow G12 8EL 0141 334 3254 • info@esteembeauty.co.uk • www.esteembeauty.co.uk


lifestyle

BUSINESS WOMEN SCOTLAND

eat fat to

lose fat Amanda Hamilton, nutritionalist, entrepreneur, health guru and television presenter, highlights the benefits of some fats, and why to our diet they can be ‘essential’.

A

few decades ago, the assumption was that all fats (including cooking oil and butter) were bad for health, and ‘dieting’ meant avoiding them at all costs. But the ‘no fat diet’ has been well and truly debunked! It is now widely accepted that, far from cutting fat out of our diets completely, incorporating the right kinds of fats such as the Omega fatty acids, into what we eat every day is essential – hence why they are called ‘essential fats’. It sounds strange but the right level of these ‘good’ fats actually enables our bodies to more effectively burn the ‘bad’ fats (such as saturated fats, principally obtained from red meat and whole-milk dairy products), and also helps to decrease appetite and aid the creation of lean muscle as opposed to the formation of fat cells. Indeed, saturated fats only present potential health problems when your diet does not include the Omega 3s you need to keep them in check. Essential fats are also great for optimal hormonal balance and immune function, and the list of benefits obtained from Omega 3s is endless. They help lower blood pressure, prevent blood clots and protect your heart to name a few! Studies have also suggested that a regular intake of Omega 3 fats could help prevent dementia and Alzheimer's. One of the easiest ways to ensure you are getting these essential fats is to eat oily fish twice a week. Scottish salmon, trout, mackerel and fresh tuna (not canned) are all good examples of the fish you should be incorporating into your diet. Yes, they are higher in calories than white fish but the benefits far outweigh this! As well as a rich source of Omega 3s, these fish contain protein, selenium, zinc, vitamins A and D and some B vitamins. Also worth taking into account is that some oily fish contain iodine, a

substance needed by your body to help regulate your thyroid, which is very important for maintaining our weight at a reasonable level. So when consuming oily fish, you really are treating your body to a whole host of nutrients and minerals that it needs to operate at its best. If you are not “into” fish, try a omega blend supplement. I use one called Udo’s oil as a salad dressing. This can actually help with the absorption of fatsoluble vitamins too so it is a nutritionist’s must-have. It’s worth spending a bit on your oil too. The harsh processing methods employed in their manufacture have the effect of transforming nutritious oils into toxic ones (i.e., turning natural molecules into unnatural ones that the body cannot effectively get rid of and which therefore tend to accumulate with age). Fats are very easily damaged through exposure to light, heat and oxygen. When looking at oils, try to go for ones which are ‘cold-pressed’, in other words, ones which have been produced by natural methods. But it’s not just about feeling good on the inside – an extra benefit is that it can make you look good on the outside. Essential fats play a vital role in giving you clear skin and strong nails and hair. The beautiful Countess and make-up artist Jemma Kidd says, “When you research and read about achieving perfect skin, one thing that comes back time and time again is that it is essential to have a good source of Omega-3, 6 and 9. I rarely get skin blemishes now and my concealer has virtually been made redundant!”

www.amandahamilton.co.uk

Try this delicious recipe using fresh tuna as one of your ‘two-a-week’.

INGREDIENTS 100g fresh tuna steak 12 green beans 6 cherry tomatoes (halved) 1/4 red onion (sliced) 1 sprig fresh parsley (chopped) Salt and pepper 20 ml low fat natural yoghurt 1/2 lemon zest 1 handful salad leaves

METHOD 1: Boil some salted water in a pan and cook the green beans until tender, then drain and place them in a bowl. 2: Add the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, chopped parsley, a little olive oil, salt and pepper and mix well. 3: In another bowl mix the yoghurt with the lemon zest and a little salt and pepper to taste. 4: Preheat a frying pan to high and sear the tuna for 1 minute on each side (more if you prefer well cooked). 5: To serve, first place the salad leaves on a plate, then add the green bean salad and pan-fried tuna steak and top it off with the lemony yoghurt.

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036

BUSINESS WOMEN SCOTLAND

lifestyle

Going with the Once again we welcome olive oil specialist Filippo Berio - prized for their quality and fine flavours since 1867. This issue Filippo Berio present two delicious recipes sure to get your mouth watering this winter... www.filippoberio.co.uk

RED ONION TART

flow

Serves: 6-8 • Preparation Time: 25 minutes • Cooking Time: 50 minutes INGREDIENTS FOR PASTRY 175g (6oz) plain flour Pinch of salt 40g (1.5oz) butter 40g (1.5oz) white vegetable fat 3 tbsp of cold water INGREDIENTS FOR FILLING 500g (1lb 2oz) red onions 1 tbsp lemon juice 4 tbsp Filippo Berio Mild and Light Olive Oil 2 tsp fresh rosemary spikes, chopped 75g (3oz) black olives, pitted and roughly chopped 3 medium eggs 284 ml carton of single cream Salt and pepper 50g (2oz) Gruyere cheese, grated

OTHER

Please note that for this recipe, as well as your standard kitchen tools, you will also require: • • • •

Rolling Pin 23cm (9”) diameter metal quiche tin Greaseproof Paper Baking Beans

METHOD • To make the pastry, put the flour and salt into a bowl - add the butter and fat and rub in to make a fine crumb texture. Add 3 tbsp of cold water and mix with a flat bladed knife until the mixture forms a dough. Gather up and knead gently on a lightly floured work-surface until smooth. • Roll out the dough, keeping a nice round shape until large enough to line a 23cm (9”) diameter metal quiche tin. Once in the tin prick the pastry base with a fork then place in the fridge for 30 minutes. • Meanwhile, peel the onions and slice into thin wedges, then place into a large bowl. Add the lemon juice and toss together. Heat the oven to 200°C/Fan 180°C/400°F or Gas Mark 6. • Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan, add the onions and fry very gently for 15 minutes or until softened, stir in the rosemary and allow to cool. • Line the pastry case with greaseproof paper and fill with baking beans, then bake in the oven for 10 minutes until the pastry begins to colour around the edge. Remove the beans and paper then bake for a further 5 minutes. Remove from the oven and reduce the temp. to 180°C/Fan 160°C/350°F/Gas Mark 4.

• Place half of the onions into the flan case and spread evenly then scatter over half of the olives and half of the cheese. • Beat the eggs with the cream, and season. Pour three quarters over the onions then top with the rest of the onions, remaining egg mixture, olives and cheese. Bake for about 20 minutes, or until lightly golden. Enjoy!


lifestyle

BUSINESS WOMEN SCOTLAND

VIEW FROM THE SHELF

CHOCOLATE MOUSSE

Serves: 6-8 • Preparation Time: 20 minutes

By Jamie & Roddy from Oddbins, Hyndland Rd, Glasgow The bracing winds of autumn are here, so with that in mind we've picked out two full-bodied wines, ideal for pairing with heartier fare. For a red wine with oomph, try the RED BUCKET SHIRAZ/CABERNET (£11). It's a typically full-bodied Australian red, with bucketloads (see what we did there?) of ripe berry fruit, plus a savoury black pepper note. Steak pie, mash and gravy should suit this one nicely. LES FARGETTES VIRÉ-CLESSÉ (£10) is a classic white Burgundy. Like most wines from the Mâconnais, it's exceptionally good value. With fresh stone fruit and great minerality it would make an ideal partner to cod in a creamy sauce. For corporate tastings, account facilities, free local delivery and friendly advice, contact Oddbins Hyndland: Jamie & Roddy Oddbins Hyndland 164A-165A Hyndland Road Glasgow G12 9HT

INGREDIENTS FOR PASTRY 175g/6oz good quality dark chocolate (70% cocoa solids) 3 large free range eggs, separated 100g/3oz golden caster sugar 3 tbsp very strong coffee, e.g. espresso 1-2 tbsp brandy (depending on taste) 100ml/7 tbsp Filippo Berio Extra Virgin Olive Oil METHOD

Tel: 0141 334 6656 Email: hyndland@oddbins.com

Jamie

Roddy

• Break the chocolate into a bowl, place over a small pan of simmering water and allow to melt. Remove the bowl from the pan and let it cool to lukewarm. • Meanwhile put the egg yolks and sugar into a large bowl and whisk until thick and pale in colour. Whisk in the coffee, brandy and olive oil, then gradually fold in the melted chocolate.

• Pour the mixture into 8 small china dishes or 6 large shot glasses and place in the refrigerator until set.

• Whisk the egg white until almost stiff, quickly fold in a large tablespoon to the chocolate mixture until smooth, then lightly fold in the rest of the chocolate mixture, trying not to beat out the air.

Oddbins Hyndland is one of five branches in Glasgow. For your local branch visit,

www.oddbins.com

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038

BUSINESS WOMEN SCOTLAND

A fleeting year for

Sheila The glamorous jewellery hall in Frasers Buchanan Street Glasgow, on the 27th of September, was the backdrop for the 1st anniversary VIP gathering for customers and new young fans of the Sheila Fleet brand.

Sheila Fleet models the Chamber of Commerce chain of office.

V

arry McMenamy, President of Glasgow Chamber of Commerce, sporting the stunning presidential chain of office, proposed the toast to the company’s success after one year of business in Glasgow. Today the company employs around 50 people and has high profile outlets in Jenners Edinburgh, Loch Lomond Shores and Frasers Glasgow. There is also a Sheila Fleet store in Edinburgh. Combined with an online business and concessions in major jewellery stores in Scotland, UK, Ireland, Canada and the US Sheila is meeting the world demand for her products. Two new collections are launched every year to satisfy global appetite for the product. The presence in Glasgow has been hugely successful allowing them to offer their unique and personal Scottish jewellery to the increasing number of tourists seeking to own a piece of the landscape. Martin Fleet, Business Manager said, “Having had such a wonderful year in Glasgow it was a real bonus to be supported by loyal customers and the Chamber of Commerce. We have ambitious plans for our next year in Glasgow and expansion of the brand is well underway”.

www.sheilafleet.com

L>R: Chamber of Com merce President Varry McMenamy ‘trades’ her chain of office with She ila Fleet in exchange for some wonderful Orkney jewellery. Photography by Ala stair Devine

L>R: Susan McKay (He ad of Membership Service s, Glasgow Chamber of Commerce), Lesley Jean Shaw (Business Manager, Doig and Sm Ltd), Varry McMenamy ith (President, Glasgow Cha mber of Commerce and Managing Directo r of Bellcom Worldwide) , Sarah Bird (Projects Administrator, Chamber of Commerce), Sheila Fleet (Director and Chi Designer, Sheila Flee ef t Jewellery), Fiona Mac kay (Chamber Council Director and Director of Kinetic Performance Ltd ) and Jackie Ramsay (Director of Corporate Chi ropody Ltd).

a ry), Janice McMillan (Are or, Sheila Fleet Jewelle sgow Gla nt, side L>R: Rick Fleet (Direct (Pre y nam ellery), Varry Mc Me Manager, Sheila Fleet Jew nior Sales Representative, ), Coylah Ferguson (Se Chamber of Commerce ila Fleet Jewellery) and She or, ect (Dir t Flee ila She Sheila Fleet Jewellery), ila Fleet Jewellery). She ive, ntat rese Sales Rep Katy Gallagher (Senior


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