25 things... to do in 2025

By Gary Campion

Candle

Meadow Farms Herb Garden is a beautifully fresh uplifting scented candle that is perfect for the kitchen, not too sweet with notes of basil, rosemary and tomato vine. Loved by perfume expert Alice Du Parcq. Made with soy wax and pure essential oils, this packs a punch and will fill even the largest space. This brand is also a firm favourite of Scary Spice Mel B, and Westend Theatre star Zoe Birkett. Web: www. meadowfarmlifestyle. co.uk Instagram: meadowfarmlifestyle

Audiobook

Darren Hayes Unlovable: A memoir from the voice of Savage Garden - Darren Hayes, a storyteller from 1970s Queensland, rose to fame as the frontman of Savage Garden, selling over 35 million albums worldwide. In his book “Unlovable,” he reveals the complexities of his life, including childhood trauma from an alcoholic father, depression, and his journey through fame. Written in his lyrical style, “Unlovable” transforms his past struggles into a captivating story of the remarkable artist he has become.

Salon Facial

Dermalux Compact Lite @ Lipstick and Lashes

LED Phototherapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to enhance skin rejuvenation. Different wavelengths target specific concerns: red light boosts collagen production and reduces inflammation, blue light treats acne by targeting bacteria, and near-infrared light penetrates deeper to promote healing. Known for its safety and minimal side effects, LED Phototherapy improves skin appearance, reduces fine lines and wrinkles, and addresses issues like acne and hyperpigmentation. Web: www. lipstickandlashes.me Instagram:lipstick-andlashes Tel:07917 606640

At Home Skin Peel

SKNRGY Elevate your skincare routine with SKNRGY’s innovative products. The Skin Confident Peel features 10% Lactic Acid and 1% Hyaluronic Acid for gentle exfoliation, brighter complexion, and deep hydration.

Key Benefits: Exfoliates Gently: Reveals a smoother, radiant complexion.

Brightens Skin Tone: Reduces dark spots and uneven tone.

Hydrates Deeply: Provides essential moisture.

Natural Ingredients: Contains Sage and White Tea Extracts. Vegan, Gluten-Free, NutFree: Kind to your skin and the planet. Web: www.sknrgy.co.uk Instagram: skn.rgy

Bath/Shower

Unapologetic is a vibrant queer self-care brand based in East London, prioritizing ethics over profits. They focus on environmental sustainability, human rights, and animal welfare, offering vegan products made with 100% green energy and never tested on animals.

Unapologetically You: Embrace individuality. Unapologetically Queer: Celebrate diversity and queer culture. Unapologetically Natural: Up to 99% natural ingredients. Unapologetically Green: 100% green energy and recyclable packaging. Unapologetically Vocal: Advocate for human rights and inclusivity. Web: www. unapologetic.london Instagram: unapologetic. london

Deodorant

IUVO - Iuvo, which means aid and delight in Latin, Iuvo aims to provide daily indulgence and luxury. Their innovative deodorant replaces traditional bicarbonate of soda with magnesium oxide for lasting freshness. Thoughtfully crafted in the UK, it lasts 2-3 months with proper care—just peel back the parchment and apply it to clean underarms. Every Iuvo product is vegan, palm oil-free, paraben-free, and cruelty-free. This year they celebrate their 10th anniversary!

Web: www.iuvoskincare. com Instagram: iuvoskincare

Unisex Fragrance

Thyme by Thursday Fragrance - An independent, femalefounded niche fragrance brand offering unisex, vegan, cruelty-free, and sustainably sourced scents inspired by moments of joy. Thyme, inspired by wild herbs on a Greek mountainside, is their most divisive fragrance. It’s best experienced on a warm day, evoking the feeling of white linen and a crisp G&T at sunset. Notes: Thyme, Bergamot, Vetiver, Sandalwood, and Tonka. Web: www. thursdayfragrance. co.uk Instaraunnehgram: thursdayfragrance

Underwear

BDXY, founded by actor Luke Evans, architect Fran Tomas, and stylist Christopher Brown, is an apparel and lifestyle brand that blends classic style with a modern twist. The ‘Unit’ Briefs offer comfort and support, made from stretch-Lyocell for a second-skin fit, with a fitted shape perfect for slim trousers and skinny jeans, featuring an embossed logo on the elasticated waistband. Web: www.bdxystudio. com Instagram: bdxystudio

Jewellery

For Rouan HachemBrigly, silver jewellery is a lifelong passion. From a young age, she saved her pocket money to hunt for unique pieces. Originally from Lebanon, she studied interior design and advertising, but her desire for distinctive jewellery sparked her creativity. Frustrated by limited options, Rouan decided to create her own jewellery. She embraced challenges and mastered new techniques, resulting in striking, handcrafted pieces featuring chunky silver and intricate etchings with semiprecious stones. Rouan sees her craft as an escape and a meditative practice, where dedication showcases her journey. Her mantra is: “Follow your passion; it is your life, after all. At 58, age is no excuse.” Inspired by Rumi’s words, she invites others to explore her bold artistry on her Instagram page: rouanbrigly.

Handbag

TALISMAN, the latest collection by Irish designer Gráinne Maher, features handbags that serve as protective shields and personal talismans. The debut piece, ‘ANU,’ showcases the ‘lovers knot’ design, symbolizing unity and love, and easily transitions from day to night. Crafted for free spirits who value artisanal craftsmanship, each bag tells a story with intricate designs. The earthy colour palette includes oxblood red and peat black, accented with playful tassels, fringes, and gold hardware. Discover the magic of TALISMAN—celebrating love, connection, and individuality. Web: www. grainnemaher. co.uk Instagram: grainnemaher_thebrand

Dog Accessories

Haus of Hank, launched in June 2023, is a boutique slow fashion brand that combines style, quality, and innovation. Founded by Emma, who merges her passion for fashion and animals with her engineering background, Haus of Hank offers fashionable and easyto-maintain pieces for all sizes, from teacup Chihuahuas to St. Bernards. Their limitededition collections focus on perfect fit, highquality materials, and unique designs—once a piece sells out, it’s gone for good. Haus of Hank delivers exclusive fashion for those who value individuality and craftsmanship.

Haus of Hank: “Where pets are family and fashion knows no boundaries.”

Web: www.hausofhank. co.uk Instagram: hausofhank_ Discount code: GNI15 for 15% off their website

Trainer Cleaning/ Refurbishing

Vintage Kicks aims to reduce the staggering waste of sneakers and shoes, with over 300 million pairs discarded annually in the UK and Ireland. They showcase over 500 pairs of New and Refurbished sneakers for all ages, from Newborns to size 15 in Men’s sneakers, each priced 40-60% less than their original RRP. They offer trainer cleaning, restoration, and customisation, ensuring your footwear looks its best. Their cleaning service also extends to a variety of Handbags and Caps.

Facebook: Vintage Kicks Instagram: vintagekicks_ atfabric

TikTok: vintage.kicks.

Belfast Discount code: GNI10 for 10% off in store

Plants

Discover the beauty of nature with The Green East! They specialise in transforming homes, offices, and restaurants with stunning indoor plants, delivering across Northern Ireland and Ireland. Their services include expert consultancy, dedicated plant care, leasing options, and engaging workshops for plant lovers. Visit them at the Portview Trade Centre in the Banana Block to bring greenery into your life! Web: www. thegreeneast.co.uk Instagram: the.greeneast