Local Women Magazine Mid Ulster Edition May 2021

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MID ULSTER, ARMAGH & FERMANAGH

Weddings from Curran, Magherafelt and Toomebridge

MAY 2021 EDITION Put a spring in your step with a BARISTA BAR half price reusable cup

- see pages 12 & 13

COVER GIRL: Slimming World consultant

HELEN GALLAGHER

Meet the Mid Ulster

Social Media Entrepreneurs

Bellaghy NI football star

SARAH ROBSON

is in a league of her own ISSN 2050-859X

9 772050 859006

05

AUSTRALIA'S MOST WANTED SEE OUR REVIEW OF THIS WINE ON PAGE 86

CHARDONNAY

SHIRAZ

The fruit for the Kelly’s Patch Chardonnay was sourced from the Goulburn Valley on the vineyards neighbouring the winery.

This region has long, warm sunny days and mild evening temperatures which are perfect for the growing of good quality Chardonnay. The grapes were harvested during the cool of the night to maintain fruit freshness and gently pressed to minimise phenolic characters. The wine was fermented in various parcels, with a small portion receiving careful oak treatment, with extended lees contact to build structure yet retain good fruit balance.

The grapes for this Shiraz were picked and crushed during the cool of night, thus ensuring the retention of varietal character, while modern winemaking techniques were employed throughout, all of which help to create the signature McPherson style. Fermentation took place in sweeping arm red fermenters, giving the wine a denser, richer colour and allowing for gentle flavour extraction. Softer tannins are also a result of this process, an important feature of the McPherson Shiraz style. Careful attention was also paid to the oak selection for the Shiraz. This wine was aged on American oak for approximately 8 months, giving the wine a noticeable, but not an excessive oak influence. The inclusion of some central Victorian fruit into the blend has boosted both the colour.

MERLOT

The grapes for this Merlot were picked and crushed during the cool of night, thus ensuring the retention of varietal character, while modern winemaking techniques were employed throughout. Much of Merlot’s popularity is derived from its juicy flavours, and mellow mouth feel. Therefore, this wine was fermented in rotary fermenters, which helped bring out the wonderful colour and flavours, but ensured that the tannins were soft and fine. Minimal oak handling was also an important feature inclusion of the winemaking allowing for the fruit to be the primary feature of this wine. The of some central Victorian fruit in the blend has further intensified both the colour and flavour, creating a wine of increased complexity and quality.

KELLY’S GANG SHIRAZ

Kelly’s Gang Shiraz is bold and full of flavour.

The nose displays sweet plums, cassis, chocolate and spice. The exuberant palate delivers ripe berry fruit along with a touch of pepper and spice. Enjoy now or cellar for up to 3-4 years. Enjoy with pizza, pasta or your favourite BBQ dish.

KELLY’S GANG SAUVIGNON BLANC

Kelly’s Gang Sauvignon Blanc is vibrant and refreshing. The nose displays lifted passionfruit and citrus notes. The fruit forward palate delivers ripe fruit flavours balanced by some lovely crisp acidity on the finish. Enjoy now or cellar for up to 2-3 years. Enjoy with salads or your favourite seafood dish.

PINOT GRIGIO

This wine is made from a blend of fruit grown in the Goulburn Valley and South East Australia from a combination of our own vineyards and our contract growers. Following crushing of the grapes during the cool of the night, the Pinot Grigio juice is cold settled and racked clean ready for fermentation. An aromatic yeast was used for inoculation and the juice is cold fermented in stainless steel tanks. The resulting wine is fresh and vibrant displaying applesand pears with floral spicy notes. The palate is clean, displaying green crunchy fruit with a crisp long finish.

SAUVIGNON BLANC

This wine is made from a blend of fruit grown in the Goulburn Valley Eastern Australia from our own vineyards. Following delivery and crushing of the grapes during the cool of the night, the Sauvignon Blanc juice was cold settled and racked.

An aromatic yeast was used for inocculation and this parcel was cool fermented for 7 days. The resulting wine is fresh and vibrant showing lovely tropical fruit flavours with a hint of typical herbaceous Sauvignon Blanc characters.

KELLY’S GANG The Last Word

At Kelly’s Patch we are increasing the outlets where you can buy our wines daily.

At present you can purchase at Tesco’s, Sainsbury’s and Chill off licence.

Check www.kellyspatch.com new outlets.

2 | Local Women Magazine

Local Women Magazine | 3

Welcome!

Editor Kim Kelly

I think the fashion accessory for this about, but fingers crossed this is the last time we will have to go through lockdown and life summer will be – the winter coat!

If like me you’ve enjoyed a meal out al fresco can return to normal for good. recently, you’ll know why. The easing of the I’ve loved being able to browse about the lockdown restrictions is amazing but let’s face shops, visit the salon and just get back to the life we had pre-pandemic. It really is the simple it, we don’t live in Spain.

As I sat under a thin canopy, outside a things in life that make a difference. restaurant enjoying my dinner, with the wind whipping round me and the rain bouncing on the pavement, I cursed my spring dress and bare legs. My winter coat will be coming back out until further notice.

I’ve been enjoying meeting up with friends and having drinks in the garden. After such a prolonged period of being housed, a simple barbecue feels like a proper night out.

If only we could have a return to the glorious Still, it’s nice to get back to a bit of normality and weather of lockdown 2020, everything would with my hair and nails done I barely recognise be perfect. myself – a big shout out to all the hairdressers Until next month, out there working round the clock to catch up on appointments.

It all still seems a little strange to be out and

Go walking with BARISTA BAR

Send in your wedding pictures!

Finally, after months of disappointment and setbacks, weddings seem to be resuming once again.

To celebrate National Walking Month, BARISTA BAR is offering Local Women readers a half price reusable cup.

It’s been so difficult for all you couples out there with cancellations and closures affecting your big days.

In fact, with only a handful of guests, most weddings in the past year have been small days.

But yet lockdown weddings have been really beautiful, and we love that so many of you have chosen to share your intimate ceremonies with our readers.

If you have had a lockdown wedding, we would love to print your pictures in the magazine and if you have been able to enjoy a bigger celebration, we’d love to see it!

We love it when you send in your pictures and share the joy of your special day with Local Women readers.

So, if you have recently married, had a civil partnership, or had your civil partnership converted to a marriage, get in touch.We’d love to share in your celebrations by printing the pictures of your big day.

All you have to do is email 10 of your wedding pictures to editor@localwomensnews.com with details of your bridal party.There is no charge for this.

MANAGING EDITOR: KIM KELLY editor@localwomensnews.com DESIGNER: AIDAN NELIS design@localwomensnews.com SALES: salesmid@localwomensnews.com ACCOUNTS: accounts@localwomensnews.com

4 | Local Women Magazine

Using a reusable cup not only benefits the environment but anyone who registers with the popular loyalty scheme will also pick up double points when using their reusable cup on each hot drink purchased in-store, so users are helping the environment and getting more FREE drinks sooner.

H A L F

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Don’t worry if it was a lowkey event and you’re planning a bigger celebration in the future, we are happy to print both weddings – double the fun!

Pop into your local BARISTA BAR, the leading coffee brand sold in SPAR, EUROSPAR, ViVO and ViVOXTRA stores across Northern Ireland, with the coupon from this month’s magazine and pick up your cup for only £1.50.

REUSABLE CUP Use this voucher to get £1.50 off a BARISTA BAR Reusable Cup. Valid until 30.06.21. Supporting sustainability #onecupatatime

SALES

To the customer: Cut out and present this coupon in participating SPAR NI, EUROSPAR NI, ViVO or ViVOXTRA stores. Only 1 coupon per transaction.

Photocopied, defaced or damaged coupons will not be accepted. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. No cash alternative. Valid until 30.06.21 To the retailer: Scan this coupon at the tender stage to deduct £1.50 off a BARISTA BAR Reusable Cup. All coupons to be returned to Barista Bar, Henderson Foodservice, 1 Hightown Ave, Newtownabbey, BT36 4HY by 31st August 2021

0845 241 1640

Local Women Magazine

Unit 6, Springrowth House, Derry~ Londonderry, BT48 0GG

www.localwomenmagazine.com The publisher does not guarantee the accuracy of statements by contributors or advertisers, or accept responsibility for any statement that they may express in this publication. The publication of an advertisement does not imply endorsement of a product, service or promotional event.

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“I LOVE CHANGING LIVES WITH SLIMMING WORLD”

Helen Gallagher

Local Women cover girl Helen Gallagher changed her life with Slimming World and now she helps people across Mid Ulster, Omagh and Enniskillen achieve their weight loss goals.

Helen Gallagher has been a Slimming World

and meals out, but because food optimising is so

supported members with a variety of health issues,

consultant for eight years.

flexible, I was able to make it work and achieve my

members who are diabetic or diagnosed as heading

own personal target weight. Achieving your target

that way, members with high cholesterol, members

is the most amazing feeling and it’s that feeling that

recovering from cancer - and I’ve supported young

brought me to the role of consultant. I wanted other

adults from 11 to 15 years who attend free with a paying

people to feel how I was feeling.

adult. To watch them make healthier choices, increase

The 65-year-old joined Slimming World as a member 13 years ago and after losing weight, she felt amazing.

She felt so good about herself that she wanted to help other people experience the same feeling - and so she

Helen is passionate about the power of Slimming

HOW HAVE MEETINGS WORKED OVER LOCKDOWN?

World and believes there is no better way to

With the very first lockdown I had to reskill pretty quickly.

achieve your weight loss goals.

Within two weeks I was on Zoom , something I’d never

became a consultant and is now a team developer.

TELL US ABOUT THE GROUPS YOU RUN?

heard of before. And to be honest most of my members hadn’t either. But they got behind me. We practiced on Zoom together and in no time, I was able to offer the

I’ve only just reopened my groups after lockdown. I’ve

‘slim from home’ service to all my members. They started

been supporting members virtually since January when

to weigh at home and instead of coming into group they

my groups had to close again. I was so excited when

sent me their weight and then I did group sessions on

Slimming World gave us the green light to reopen our

Zoom. It works well for lots of members but it’s not every

groups in venue and virtual. This meant we could reopen

body’s cup of tea and I understand that.

for weigh ins, at this point, and we would continue to unexpected difficulty. My venue at the Fir Trees Hotel

BRIEFLY EXPLAIN HOW THE PLAN WORKS?

remained closed under the current regulations, as did

Food Optimising is calorie controlled with all the

most of the buildings that would normally be available.

counting done for you. There are three steps that

To reopen I’ve had to change my day from Monday to

will allow you to eat to fill your hunger, give you the

Wednesday and I’m so glad to say that Craft Recruitment

minerals and vitamins you need with a limited number

and Training came to my rescue and I am now in their

of treats, so you don’t feel deprived.

support members weekly on Zoom. Then came an

building in the Mopack Business Complex, Strabane past three and a half months are now back on my scales.

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT YOUR ROLE?

My other regular members are beginning to return, and I

It is such a pleasure getting up every day being a

am welcoming new members as well.

Slimming World consultant supporting members to

The members that I’ve been supporting virtually for the

HOW DID YOUR JOURNEY WITH SLIMMING WORLD BEGIN?

lose weight. Everyone is on their own personal journey changing their lives and I am passionate about being a part of that. With 52 years’ experience in weight loss,

It began just over 13 years ago. I had met quite a number

Slimming World keeps us updated on the psychological

of people around town who were looking marvellous

needs of a slimmer. The biggest thrill is supporting

and each one had lost weight with Slimming World. I

a member to understand what is holding them back

just wanted to give it a go. I had tried other weight loss

or what is stopping them losing weight. Being a team

groups in the past with little success, so it took me a

developer for Strabane, Omagh and Fermanagh keeps

while to join. It’s that feeling of embarrassment, feeling

me in regular contact with all of the consultants. We work

a failure, worried what other people would think - but

together to reach out to members and to recruit new

then a friend agreed to come with me. We didn’t do it

consultants for the team, offering them opportunities

right away because it was coming up to Christmas so we planned the date and selected the group we would join and then built ourselves up to it.

CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT YOUR OWN WEIGHT LOSS JOURNEY?

their activity, and grow in confidence is truly amazing.

The one success story that stands out was a couple who joined me because the lady needed to lose weight, reducing her Body Mass Index (BMI) so she could have IVF treatment. It was a heart-breaking story that turned good. Every week was so important because time was ticking. The couple stayed with me right through the pregnancy. Slimming World works with the British association of midwives and the end result was a positive IVF treatment. A new set of parents to a very much wanted and loved gorgeous baby boy. My first, and glad to say, not my last Slimming World baby.

WHAT KIND OF EXERCISE DO YOU RECOMMEND? Exercise is very important and works as an integral part of the Slimming World plan. I find that members do what they enjoy the most and at a time that’s right for them.

It can be anything from a gentle walk to bootcamp.

Getting going is the main thing. It’s not about how hard you do it but the length of time you do it for.

HOW IMPORTANT DO YOU THINK IT IS TO DO YOUR FOOD PREP AND BE ORGANISED? Nothing happens without a plan. Routines and work patterns vary so it’s important to know what your week ahead looks like so you can organise your shopping and plan your meals. You’ll know if you need to prep the night before, maybe turn on the slow cooker before going to work or if you’ll have the time to cook when you’re home. Some members like to cook in bulk and freeze for those busier days. Being organised sets you up for a good weight loss.

WHAT WOULD YOU SAY TO SOMEONE WHO HAS BEEN they had maybe never before thought about.

THINKING OF LOSING WEIGHT BUT WHAT IS THE BIGGEST SUCCESS DOESN’T KNOW HOW TO START? STORY YOU HAVE SEEN OVER The main thing is to take that first step. Believe THE YEARS? me, you can do it, Believe in Slimming World and There have been so many successes over the years. For

let your consultant do the rest. You will get such a

My weight loss journey was slow and steady. I

every single person who loses weight, it’s life changing,

warm welcome whether you’re a returning member or

travelled a lot for work at the time and found it difficult

and I feel privileged to be a part of that journey with

coming to group for the very first time. It’s not always

to get into a routine. I was eating a lot of pub lunches

them whether it’s half a stone or 10 stone or more. I’ve

easy but always worth it.

Local Women Magazine | 9

MONDAY ENNISKILLEN

Claire Carleton - 07988807926

FIVEMILETOWN

DERRYLIN Saranna Mc Govern - 07864988665

ENNISKILLEN Pauline Taggart - 07533697945

Zara Irvine Payne - 07854721185

OMAGH

MAGHERA

Philomena Mc Mahon - 07833381677

FRIDAY OMAGH

Majella o Brien - 07787561623

SATURDAY CASTLEDAWSON

Will - 07472 044077

STRABANE

TUESDAY

Helen Gallagher - 07730768080

Will - 07472 04407

DROMORE

THURSDAY

Zara Irvine Payne - 07854721185

CASTLEDERG

IRVINESTOWN

Ivan Black - 07771915973

OMAGH

LISNASKEA

Pauline Taggart - 07533697945

SION MILLS

Kathleen Barclay - 07368657371

WEDNESDAY

Olivia Kerrigan - 07874190181

BELLEEK

STRABANE

Allison Coulter - 07856710051 Saranna Mc Govern - 07864988665 Elaine Lawdor Bell - 07817836543 Sinead Twells - 07835439707

Elaine Lawdor Bell - 07817836543

10 | Local Women Magazine

ENNISKILLEN MAGHERAFELT OMAGH

Mariesa Doherty - 07516717032

ENNISKILLEN

Majella O’Brien - 07787561623

STRABANE

Allison Coulter - 07856710051

MELISSA GETS THE LONDON LOOK! Rimmel unveils Portglenone beauty blogger Melissa Riddell as a new ambassador.

Radio host and style icon Melissa Riddell has been unveiled as the new Irish ambassador for make-up brand Rimmel.

ƒ Melissa

The Portglenone social media star, who is a Cool FM presenter and shows off her amazing style on her popular Instagram page @melissariddell, has built up a huge following over the past few years with her beauty and fashion tips and glimpses into her life.

And now she is joining Rimmel global ambassadors like Kate Moss and Cara Delevingne who have been bringing us ‘the London look’ – inspiring us with timeless make-up looks as relevant to those in their teens as they are to those in their thirties, fifties and beyond.

Rimmel decided to pick local ambassadors to bring ‘the London look’ to a new generation of make-up devotees. The new Rimmel London Crew includes some of Ireland’s best known and best loved make-up artists and make-up lovers including make-up artist Tara Farrell @tara_ makeup and make-up lover Shauna Lindsay, who is always sharing her life and adventures on her popular page @shaunalindsay.

Another make-up artist Bonnie Ryan is also joining the crew as an ambassador. She has had an interesting career from her music and TV presenting days and now has found her true passion in make-up which she documents on her Instagram page @bonnieryan.

Over the next six months Melissa will be sharing her favourite Rimmel products, make-up looks, previews of new products, tips and tricks, unveiling their cult favs and dupes on theirs and Rimmel’s social channels. She will be live on Instagram and Tik Tok over the coming months with Q&As and ‘Get ready with me’s.

With each #RimmelLondonCrew ambassador’s own distinctive look, followers can expect to see their favourite Rimmel foundations and how to set their make-up with Rimmel mask-proof icons like Lasting Finish Foundation. As summer draws near it’s all about getting that natural glow and building up our lashes with a sneak peek to the new Rimmel London High’light and Scandal’eyes Volume on Demand.

ƒ Tara

ƒ Bonnie

ƒ Shauna Local Women Magazine | 11

LET´S GO WALKING

To celebrate National Walking Month, Barista Bar is offering Local Women readers a half price reusable cup.

Put a spring in your step with this environment but anyone who registers with fabulous environmentally friendly offer the popular loyalty scheme will also pick up double points when using their reusable from BARISTA BAR! cup on each hot drink purchased in-store, It’s National Walking Month so it’s time to so users are helping the environment and get out for a walk, run, hike – or maybe just getting more FREE drinks sooner. a gentle stroll with your dog.

And, if you are looking for some interesting Put on your trainers and get out and about new places to walk, why not check out and explore the beautiful local parks, www.walkni.com and www.trekni.com. beaches, and countryside while the days There are some amazing hidden delights are just that little bit brighter. to be found off the beaten track across the And what could be nicer than a cup of country – what are you waiting for? freshly brewed coffee, a delicious hot chocolate, or a nice cup of tea to fuel your daily exercise?

But sustainability has never been so important and BARISTA BAR, the leading coffee brand sold in SPAR, EUROSPAR, ViVO and ViVOXTRA stores across Northern Ireland, is fully committed to reducing waste and the amount of singleuse plastic in the local environment.

That’s why they are offering Local Women readers a half price ‘keep cup’ which you can use over and over again on your outdoor adventures.

So, help support sustainability #onecupatatime by bringing this coupon to your nearest SPAR, EUROSPAR, ViVO or ViVOXTRA to pick up your half price reusable BARISTA BAR cup for just £1.50.

Using a reusable cup not only benefits the 12 | Local Women Magazine

Don’t forget to follow Barista Bar’s social media accounts @mybaristabar @baristabarni for the latest news, offers and competitions.

THE

PERFECT

WA L K I N G

C O M PA NI O N @baristabarni

@mybaristabar

PRICE

H A L F

REUSABLE CUP Use this voucher to get £1.50 off a BARISTA BAR Reusable Cup. Valid until 30.06.21. Supporting sustainability #onecupatatime

To the customer: Cut out and present this coupon in participating SPAR NI, EUROSPAR NI, ViVO or ViVOXTRA stores. Only 1 coupon per transaction.

Photocopied, defaced or damaged coupons will not be accepted. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. No cash alternative. Valid until 30.06.21 To the retailer: Scan this coupon at the tender stage to deduct £1.50 off a BARISTA BAR Reusable Cup. All coupons to be returned to Barista Bar, Henderson Foodservice, 1 Hightown Ave, Newtownabbey, BT36 4HY by 31st August 2021

SARAH’S IN A LEAGUE OF HER OWN

Northern Ireland football star Sarah Robson from Bellaghy on juggling motherhood and a full-time job with playing the game she loves.

By Mandi Millar Bellaghy-born football international Robson is in a league of her own.

Sarah

ƒ Playing for Northern Ireland (picture by Press Eye)

As a member of the Northern Ireland women’s team which made history last month by taking the country to the Euro finals, she’s at the top of her game on the pitch – and off.

But the mum of one – like women’s football generally - has come a long way from the days when they had to take Persil tablets to tournaments so they could wash their only training kit in the wash basin between fixtures.

“Getting through to the Euros has been unreal!

Unbelievable! Class!” beams Durham Women’s

midfielder Sarah, the first in the NI squad to become a mum, a role she juggles with full-time lecturing at Newcastle College.

nothing like it.

“Not to do be playing at the very top of my game wouldn’t be fair on him,” says Sarah whose But she’s quick to admit it’s only the support of kickabouts in the streets and fields of Bellaghy Geordie-born husband Damian, a Civil Servant, were her first taste of football. which enables her football career to continue at “We were a Liverpool and Manchester United international level. family. Dad watched the big matches no ƒ In action

14 | Local Women Magazine

“Since we had Harper (3) he’s given up so much matter what and my granda went to the so I can carry on and that’s really what motivates Moyola matches. me – that and running out for my country. There’s “One of my sisters played netball and got me into

that too. I played for NI but when the time came to choose the football won, though I don’t have a big back story about why I got into it, it was something to do.”

as long as I felt well,” says Sarah who didn’t tell too many people her news.

“There’s still this idea that when you’re pregnant you should stop doing everything immediately but it was the only thing keeping me sane!

And she loved it, soon running rings round her male cousins in those Bellaghy kickabouts.

“I was still out running at 30 weeks and in the gym to 38 weeks!

“You always want to beat the boys!” laughs Sarah whose life, like her game, has been blessed with some great timing.

“Being on maternity leave gave me time to focus on getting back to fitness and I started training again seriously after three months.”

“At Bellaghy Primary our teacher was just starting the first ever girls’ team and then at secondary, if I hadn’t gone to Magherafelt High I wouldn’t have had the chance to play on, because girls at the other school in the town played hockey.”

Once back in the locker room though Sarah says no-one treated her any differently.

From school she was then getting picked for regionals and county teams before starting her career with Moyola Park Ladies, moving to Ballymena United Allstars.

ƒ Sarah with husband Damian and daughter Harper

Stints with Icelandic teams Fylkir, Grindavik and FH followed – just after she’d spent “I keep an eye on diet too. I never feel I play as three years in the US playing varsity football well if I’ve had a big carryout during the week!” having won a scholarship to the University of There’s a lot of discipline then involved in Southern Mississippi.

Robson family life but that’s something Damian FA Women’s Superleague side Manchester City understood when they married in 2016 after wanted her too but it was before their major meeting through mutual friend and fellow NI investment in the side so there was no salary. player Rachel Furness.

“I needed to work so I was delighted to secure a spot at Sunderland for five years where I was studying for my Masters degree, before switching to Durham in 2017,” says Sarah who at 33, is one of the club’s veterans.

“Furney was organising a friendly – girls and against boys – and Damian was on the team. They fielded their weaker players because they thought they’d win but we smashed it!” recalls Sarah.

“I’m wil’ old!” she laughs, “and having to work harder to stay fit and healthy. It takes longer to recover from training and games.

Love blossomed and Harper arrived, giving Sarah a daughter and her teams a new mini mascot.

“NI manager then Alfie Wylie asked me if I wanted to train with them. Harper was eight weeks and I hadn’t left her before but there had to be a first time,” admits Sarah who then went to Slovakia with the squad.

“I ended up on the pitch as Alfie said I was the best person to play.”

Durham’s acceptance of the new mum was the same.

“They’ve been brilliant and said Damian and Harper are welcome to travel with us to away matches. It’s been unreal. Everyone has just been amazing,” says Sarah who often brings the little girl to training where the other players look after her while she’s busy.

“She’s massive part of everything with an accent that’s sometimes really Northern Ireland and sometimes really Geordie!”

Looking ahead Sarah would love to see more opportunities for women in professional football in case Harper shares her passion.

“England are making massive strides but there “I train with my club four nights a week and play “As soon as I was pregnant I’d spoken to the NI are still only five NI players who are professionals. at weekends and that seems to be enough. team doctor about training and she said to carry The rest of us are juggling often full-time jobs or study and that’s why the gap widens between the stronger and weaker teams,” she explains.

“UEFA have just pumped another £24m into the women’s champions league so that’s bound to trickle down to the nations ultimately - NI wants to be a part of that “In 10 years time I’d like to see tens of thousands of girls playing rather than thousands and to see NI continue to qualify for championships so our success isn’t a one-off.

“For me it’s about making as many memories now as I can to share with Harper when she’s older.

ƒ The Northern Ireland team (picture by Press Eye)

“It would be so good to be able to tell her that getting through to the Euro finals this year was a watershed moment in the history of Northern Ireland women’s football – and that her mum was part of it.”

Local Women Magazine | 15

16 | Local Women Magazine

Get your Fit2Fly Certificate

Accurate Covid-19 testing

MedChecks offers rapid Covid-19 testing with a mobile service for private and corporate events.

One of the key approaches to the management of Covid-19 is testing.

MedChecks offers a range of rapid, noninvasive tests carried out by medical professionals to put your mind at ease and help get things back to normal as soon as possible.

MedChecks offers: • Covid-19 testing at private and corporate events • A mobile service available provincewide • Fit2fly certificates complying with government requirements • Test to Release (Days 2, 5 & 8) • PCR/Antigen/Antibody testing • Test to check your status after vaccination.

HOW ACCURATE ARE THE RESULTS?

Since the commencement of testing there

Set up by Anaesthetist and Intensive Care Doctor Dr John Doherty, MedChecks aims to help people return to normal life post lockdown through the range of tests offered.

Dr Doherty says: “As restrictions are now easing and we come out of lockdown we want to be in a position to help people get back to normal - for children to go to school safely, for employees to return to the workplace, and for people to begin to travel safely.”

WHY DID YOU SET UP MEDCHECKS?

I have had an interest in Medical Diagnostics and Screening and have been working in this sphere for the last 10 years. I provided extra help and support during the pandemic when I saw the alarming high infection and transmission rates, particularly in the North West area of the country. I believe that one of the key approaches in management of Covid 19 is in testing.

has

been

significant

development

and

advancement in the tests’ reliability - they are now exceptionally sensitive and accurate.

CAN I GET A TEST CERTIFICATE?

All tests are provided with certification which supports the fit2fly programme.

WHAT TESTS ARE OFFERED? We offer a range of tests:

1. PCR - This is a nasal swab and is sent for analysis to a lab. Results will be returned typically in less than 12 hrs.

WHERE IS MEDCHECKS BASED?

MedChecks is located in Derry but covers all

of Northern Ireland and Donegal. There are several mobile teams that can cover anywhere in the province on any given day.

2. Rapid Antigen - This is also a nasal swab.

The lateral flow test is performed quickly, and results are available immediately.

There is also a fixed testing site at McCausland

3. Rapid Antibody - This is a finger prick blood test and results are also available immediately.

This test can be useful to tell you if you have had Covid-19 in the previous months or if you have had a response to the vaccination.

HOW DO I ARRANGE A TEST?

ARE THE TESTS PAINFUL?

All tests are relatively non-invasive and performed by trained healthcare professionals.

Car Park at Belfast International Airport where a drive through facility is offered.

Tests can be done in person by booking at

one of our available sites or requesting mobile appointment where we will come to you.

Details of the tests, availability of

appointments and booking can be found at

www.medchecks.co.uk.

Local Women Magazine | 17

BRINGING BEAUTY DOWN UNDER When Caroline Quinn moved to Australia to start a new life, she missed her favourite local beauty brands – and so she set up a new business ‘Beauty Closet’ to sell our favourite products on the other side of the world.

Starting a new life in sunny Australia is like a dream come true – sunny days on the beach and barbecues instead of the drizzly rain at home.

But for many ex-pats living abroad, it’s the little things about home that you miss the most and for Caroline Quinn from Co Derry, it’s our homegrown beauty products that she found she couldn’t live without.

Caroline moved to Sydney eight years ago and, although she loves her new home, she couldn’t find the beauty brands that she wanted in Australian pharmacies.

From

tanning

products

to

skincare

and

makeup, Ireland is leading the way in the beauty industry – and we often take for granted that the beauty staples we can buy in local chemists are not available worldwide.

And Caroline soon discovered that other Irish and Northern Irish friends she met living in her new home country felt exactly the same.

And so, the idea for an online business was formed. Caroline set up Beauty Closet last year selling the brands we love like Polished, LMD and Bellamianta.

Not only can ex-pats living in Australia buy the products they want but their families back in Ireland can use the website to send presents that are guaranteed to be a hit.

Added to that Australians can try out the Irish brands that we know are amazing.

18 | Local Women Magazine

break from my full-time work and some days I

CAN YOU TALK US THROUGH YOUR PRODUCT RANGE?

ended up with time to think. I put pen to paper

We currently have 11 Irish beauty brands

in June 2020 and we quickly launched with our

available in Australia, including Bellamianta,

first brand Polished London in July 2020.

Polished London, SoSue, LMD Cosmetics,

WHAT IS YOUR WORK BACKGROUND?

Iconic Bronze, Luna By Lisa, Bperfect, Sculpted

needed something to keep me going. I had a

Back home I worked for Oasis, so I always had a retail interest. Since arriving in Australia, I have worked in Executive Search running the internal talent for the businesses. I returned from

by Aimee, Ella & Jo, Oh My Glam & Bare By Vogue. We also have one jewellery brand The Temple Wolf - they design the beautiful Eire necklace which has been very popular.

maternity to the recruitment industry in February 2021 and I’m slowly adjusting to working full time, running the Beauty Closet and running after a one-year-old. No day is ever the same but I’m having fun so I cannot complain.

HOW DID YOU COPE WITH LOCKDOWN - DID IT AFFECT YOUR BUSINESS? Mum of one, Caroline is delighted with the success of her new business and tells Local Women how she

I am very fortunate to say Covid has not affected my life personally or professionally. We have

has introduced a little Irish glam to Australia.

been very lucky in Australia as lockdown was

WHEN DID YOU START YOUR BUSINESS?

ready to go on maternity, so I was a home with

The Beauty Closet commenced in July 2020.

After giving birth to first child Mason in May 2020 I decided to bring it to life - because I thought I had so much time on my hands!

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO SET UP BEAUTY CLOSET?

short – just two months at the start. I was getting my feet up! Beauty Closet started as an online business at a time when online sales were growing rapidly. Covid helped dramatically with my sales because if family in Ireland were posting presents to loved ones, they couldn’t do this during lockdown, so they came to the Beauty

I have been living in Australia for eight years

Closet. In Australia everything has opened up

along with 100,000 other Irish emigrants. I

for us. We run monthly markets in Coogee and

love all things makeup and beauty. Each

had our first event with 90 people in March 2021,

year when I travelled back home to Ireland

which was fantastic because if you hadn’t seen

to visit my family, I would stock up on all the

friends from other states, it was a great night to

latest products from makeup to fake tan and

get everyone together and have lots of fun while

everything in between! During the year when

learning from makeup and skincare experts!

new products came out my mum would post me over surprise gifts, it was great. But when

DO YOU HAVE PLANS TO EXPAND YOUR RANGE? Yes, we are always on the lookout for local brands, and we are adding to our brands each month. We have The Belle Brush coming soon!

WHAT DO YOU MOST LOVE ABOUT YOUR JOB? I love the interaction with our customers. They are the life of the business. The excitement when customers come to pick up their orders is fun to see and when I get to meet customers at events. The Irish are very loyal to their brands and it is amazing to see.

WHAT PLANS DO YOU HAVE FOR THE FUTURE OF THE BUSINESS? The business is growing rapidly which is exciting!

Covid hit, the postal service got slow and even

We are looking to expand more into New

stopped, so I thought - let’s give the Beauty

Zealand and hopefully down the line, we will

Closet a go now. I love all things beauty and

be able to open stores across Australia to give

makeup and I always loved the idea of having

our customers the ultimate experience.

my own business and having the flexibility of

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO A FEMALE ENTREPRENEUR STARTING OUT?

working for myself.

HOW LONG DID IT TAKE YOU FROM INITIAL IDEA TO ACTUALLY TRADING?

Go for it! Put your pen to paper and make your idea come to life. There will always be

The initial idea started a few years back, but I

obstacles and reasons to put it off - don’t let

never had the push to start. I always thought

them get in your way!

it wouldn’t be possible and I didn’t have the

www.beautycloset.com.au

time. Then when I went on maternity leave, I

Browse and shop products at

www.beautycloset.com.au beautyclosetau

beautycloset.au Local Women Magazine | 19

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MEET THE MID ULSTER SOCIAL MEDIA ENTREPRENEURS

With job prospects limited due to the pandemic, these young women from Mid Ulster have taken matters into their own hands and are making social media work for them with their own online businesses.

By Maibh Shiels “If I’ve had a really busy day, I’m wrecked when I finish. I don’t get to put up the pictures of the dogs I’ve groomed or update my followers. A big part of my page is sharing pictures of people’s dogs after they’re groomed, and when I don’t get to put the picture up, I feel a bit guilty.”

How many hours do you spend scrolling though social media?

For many of us browsing our socials is a pleasant waste of time but, for a new generation of young women, spending hours on Instagram and Facebook is all in a day’s work.

For Anna, her business is her full-time job, and she has not just invested time, but also money, into improving it.

These young women are using social media as much professionally as they do personally and have started their own social media-based businesses.

“I am renovating what was my shed into a brandnew state-of-the-art salon. It is everything you would want from a dog groomer. It’s fresh and it’s new.”

And business is booming - from dog grooming, to baking, to mask and wax melt making.

With job prospects limited due to the pandemic, these ladies are making their mark and their money by being selfemployed on social media.

They tell Local Women how they use social media channels to promote their careers.

ANNA MULHOLLAND, 21, RANDALSTOWN

Anna has also spent money on paid ads which social media platforms offer to businesses.

with limited options.

“I always liked the idea of working for myself, but I was looking for employment to get a bit more experience, but because of Covid nobody wanted anyone else working for them.”

Anna started her own dog grooming business, called Randal Hounds, on social media in Anna explains why she started her business September 2020. on social media. “In a way it’s free advertising, After dropping out of her university course, she because if you put out your product and service did a dog grooming course in August when and get people sharing it, they are advertising restrictions relaxed and started her business for you, and it costs you nothing.” shortly after.

However, she says there are some struggles She says that she did not plan on being self- when it comes to being self-employed on employed so soon, but the pandemic left her social media.

26 | Local Women Magazine

While she says they did improve her reach and are worth it, she has been using social media marketing as cheaply as possible since starting the salon renovation.

The entrepreneur has faced financial setbacks with her business, too, especially because of Coronavirus.

She has had to close twice, because of having Covid-19 and being a close contact of someone who had it.

Despite this, she shares stories of success through her social media-based businesses.

Anna had her first customer just days after beginning her self-employment and has been busy as the pandemic has meant people are spending more time walking their dogs.

CAOILFHINN LEADON, 21, KILDRESS

Caoilfhinn was part of an effort to make emergency scrubs for NHS workers, and when people saw her work, they started to ask her to make face masks as they became compulsory in shops, cafes, and other places.

As a Textile Art, Design and Fashion student at Ulster University, she created her business’s social media page as part of her course.

“We had to create an account as a way for lecturers to see how we were progressing.

So, I used it for documenting making the masks, and it’s turned into a business page now. It kind of happened naturally.”

KATHRYN DOYLE, 20, DRAPERSTOWN

As well as selling on social media platforms, Caoilfhinn recently started her own Etsy shop.

She says that when it comes to social media, she finds hashtags to be the most helpful for getting her business noticed, especially on TikTok.

Kathryn sells cakes, cupcakes, brownies, blondies and cookies through her social media-based business, KD Cakes, which she started in July 2020.

And she has had orders from America, Canada and Germany since she first started making her face masks, as well as lots of people buying from her locally.

She worked in a bakery and always loved baking so decided to become self-employed, and her hobby is now her business.

Kathryn says she uses social media as she finds it convenient: “It’s easy to use and what I’m used to.”

She does talk, though, of how time consuming it can be to create content that people will want to see.

Kathryn has struggled balancing her studies with her social media business.

“Whenever I was on placement it was difficult. There were a lot of late nights to try and get things organised.”

The business-owner shares what she does to succeed on social media: “I schedule my posts at a time when my audience are most likely to be active. I also share everything on my story as I get more views.”

However, the pandemic has had an impact, as Kathryn has had some orders from her baking business cancelled when events couldn’t go ahead.

But overall, her business has been a huge success and Kathryn has had late nights trying to fill orders - and admits that she is so busy that she would struggle to find the time for her business if it weren’t for lockdown.

AINE O’KANE, 25, DESERTMARTIN

Aine started selling her business, AOK Waxmelts, at the start of the year.

She has been making wax melts since the start of the first lockdown, but only started selling them recently, after she shared them with friends and family, and they loved them.

Aine says that her social media business has been a great success.

She says: “Getting your name out there is the hardest part.

You solely rely on other people to do it. Your business is in other people’s hands.

“I’m an admin assistant in an office job working 9 to 5 Monday to Friday. So, the wax melt making has to be done in the evenings and weekends.”

The long hours needed to be a businessowner on social media means Aine has to juggle her time.

She shares how social media marketing,

while time-consuming, has features that can help someone starting out.

“If I was stuck trying to pick what scents I needed to order I would put up a poll, and question boxes are brilliant because people will send their ideas in.”

Aine has sold out of her scents several times since starting her business on social media and works late into the night to complete her many orders.

Local Women Magazine | 27

28 | Local Women Magazine

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BUILDING BUSINESS FOR A STRONGER ECONOMY

“SUPPORTING AND HELPING FAMILIES IS A PRIVILEGE” “Families in Northern Ireland are on their knees,” Ruth-Ann Delija from Action for Children tells Local Women’s Mandi Millar.

By Mandi Millar Ruth-Ann Delija adores her little girl but some nights she hugs her extra tight.

“When you see the lives some children here are living it’s completely and utterly heartbreaking and those evenings I go home from work and hug her that bit more!” confesses the local mum.

As Interim Operational Director of Action for Children, Ruth-Ann and her team work with some of Northern Ireland’s most vulnerable children, young people and families providing intervention and support to help them cope with what have often been – especially this year – increasingly challenging circumstances.

“When a 10-year-old is self-harming or tells you they don’t want to go on living, or a teenager tells you their friend has completed suicide, you realise the horrific situations these young people are in,” continues Ruth-Ann. However, her role this year has arguably been her most challenging to date in what she says has seemed like a constant state of crisis management.

Ruth - Ann Delija - Action for Children.

“Ideally our success lies in stepping in early before crisis point and the year before Covid we reached 15,589 children, young people and their families,” continues Ruth-Ann who joined the charity seven years ago.

“We do that in collaboration with statutory and non-statutory sectors – health trusts, Housing Executive, National Lottery, for example, as well as fundraising monies.”

Ruth - Ann with husband Ben. 32 | Local Women Magazine

Action for Children, previously known as National Children’s Home (NCH), began in 1869. Ironically many of the challenges faced by children and families today are not so

different to those 150 years ago.

“Just as in 1860, homelessness among young people now is on the rise so we deliver where help is needed,” explains Ruth-Ann, whose husband Ben also works for a charity within Health and Social Care.

“Our family support services offer practical help for parents and we also provide emotional support for families dealing with challenging behaviours, mental health issues or financial hardship.

“Indeed, mental health is a key focus. Our Choices programme offers a whole family approach to better mental health, while our flagship Blues mental health programme increases the resilience of young people aged 13-19. So far, we’ve offered it in 41

schools across Northern Ireland.”

Action for Children also hosts Sure Start services for children under five, with family centres and parenting programmes and runs a Young Carers service and a Young Adult Carers equivalent for those over 18-years-old.

All that runs alongside the training and support of foster carers and placement of children in safe loving homes through its fostering service.

“It’s a privilege to work with these children, young people and families; it makes you realise how precious family life is,” says Ruth-Ann. “Some stories especially stick with you. For instance, I think of a family whose father had to give up work during lockdown when his wife gave birth to twins.

“The babies had to remain in hospital for a protracted period, during which time the mother was also unwell. The hospital was miles away and without support because relatives were in lockdown, only the father was left to look after everyone.

“This was a family who had always held their own but the pandemic has made things very challenging. Thankfully, Action for Children was able to help with food and fuel costs for this family through its Emergency Fund.

“Another mother was in constant pain due to a chronic condition and her young daughter was her carer. When the mother’s bed broke she was unable to sleep properly so would waken repeatedly at night.

“That family had to choose between a new bed or food. We were able to replace the bed.

“Other families have needed computer tablets so children could carry on learning during lockdown; others needed children’s shoes. Families are on their knees.

“Financial hardship is very real and has been made worse by loss of jobs through lockdown,” says Ruth-Ann who’s all too aware of the Ann and her team see opportunities. funding challenges facing charities like hers.

“We have a fantastic team here in Northern “Action for Children isn’t unique though - Ireland who repeatedly go above and the country was in crisis before Covid. With beyond and really proved that during the last projects funded for a finite period, it is difficult year. We are always thinking of innovative to plan long term so you can’t factor in ways to tackle things,” she continues. sustainability.

“We have a very open culture in Action for “With the many issues challenging families Children. We’re always there to support each as a result of the pandemic, the statutory other and being able to help families achieve services need their resources for the growing their full potential is what keeps us all going. number of increasingly high risk cases.

“It’s been challenging, especially working “There are fewer resources left for our early through the current pandemic and multiple intervention programmes, despite the fact that lockdowns, but exercise has always been a these are proven in study after study to prevent great stress reliever for me and I’ve a good many situations escalating to high risk.” work-life balance – something I’ve always However, where some see problems, Ruth- been very clear about. You’re not going to

be effective to others if you don’t look after yourself,” says Ruth-Ann who sees many parallels in her work and home life.

“The skills needed in work are very like those you need in a family and the most important thing you can do is keep open lines of communication with people.

“That’s key in leadership too. You also have to show vulnerability and be ‘real’ with people.

We’re not emotionless.

“But I wouldn’t want people to think this job doesn’t have a profound impact on me either.

I love my job and I feel immensely blessed to be in the position I am. Working with these children, young people and families is indeed a privilege.”

Contact our friendly fostering team today on 028 9046 0500 or email fostercareni@actionforchildren.org.uk

www.actionforchildren.org.uk/fostering

@AFCNIFostercare Local Women Magazine | 33

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Escape the burden of debt

Christians Against Poverty (CAP) offers free debt advice and personal support to those with unmanageable debts. In partnership with local charity Hope Magherafelt, this service is available to anyone residing in the Mid Ulster area. The friendly team provide a listening ear and offer practical support to help you find a suitable route out of debt. The first step to becoming debt free is to call the CAP freephone number on 0800 328 0006 or visit capdebthelp.org. After this the local Debt Coach, will get in touch to confirm the threeappointment process.

CASE STUDY

Lifting the weight of debt in Northern Ireland

Sarah: “I was worried sick and having sleepless nights”

Sarah, who lives in the Mid Ulster area, recently got in touch with CAP, bravely making the call to 0800 328 0006 after the encouragement of a trusted friend. Sarah is a single mother who got into debt when she started using shopping catalogues. A loss of working hours and a change in family circumstances made it difficult for her to pay her bills.

Sarah lived with this ever-worsening situation for over four years, causing great stress and anxiety. As she later admitted to her Debt Coach, she was “worried sick and having sleepless nights”. She was trying to pay small amounts to each of her creditors but couldn’t pay everyone, or anyone in full.

It took Sarah approximately one year to pay off her debts, wanting to get things sorted as quickly as possible.

However, every case is uniquely different and therefore the recommended route out of debt and subsequent repayment plan will vary depending on individual circumstances.

Free debt advice and personal support in Mid Ulster

Recently, Sarah was in conversation with her Debt Coach while celebrating her becoming debt free! They met to celebrate this great occasion over coffee and scones.

She recounted her story, the journey from being in debt with all of its stress and strain, to becoming John – became debt free through debt free and in control of her finances.

“I felt immediate relief when my Debt Coach called me for the first time, and again when I passed on all my paperwork and bills for CAP to help organise and prepare a budget. It felt like a huge burden was being lifted off my shoulders.

The whole process was so simple. Getting in touch with CAP was the best idea ever.”

would recommend people are not like me and spend four years burying their head in the sand!

“Of course, there is commitment required to work through the three-appointment process and collate all the necessary paperwork for your debts.”

Looking to the future, Sarah’s goal is to remain debt free. Remarking on what has changed, she noted, “Being through the process has made a big difference. I have learned to budget, and I have learned how to stick to a budget – something I would never have done before!”

“I felt taken care of throughout the entire process and fully recommend getting in touch with CAP. It’s an amazing feeling knowing that I was able to repay my debts, even though some months it was difficult to make the monthly payments – but I did it.”

When asked what you would say to somebody in a similar situation, struggling with their finances, wondering what to do, CAP Sarah offered this advice, “If you are sitting with the stress of being in debt, it is so simple to pick up the phone and make a phone call. Know that the person on the other end of the call will listen and is prepared to help you. Then when you meet your Debt Coach, they will take all your paperwork away – once that goes, the relief is unbelievable! I

As Sarah and her Debt Coach finished their coffee and enjoyed the final crumbs of their scones, they parted knowing that CAP had helped one more person cross the finish line of becoming debt free.

Book your free appointment

What’s next for Sarah? Keen to give back, she has trained to become a ‘befriender’ with Hope Magherafelt and give back something to her local community.

0800 328 0006 capdebthelp.org

*We have chosen not to use Sarah’s real name.

In partnership with Hope Magherafelt CAPuk

CAPuk_org

CAPukorg

Book your free appointment 0800 328 0006 capdebthelp.org 36 | Local Women Magazine

Charity Registered No: 1097217 (England & Wales), SC038776 (Scotland). CAP is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

In partnership with Hope Magherafelt, Christians Against Poverty help people in Mid Ulster who are struggling with debt by offering practical support and coaching. Call today for an appointment.

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38 | Local Women Magazine

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SALON PERFECT HAIR WITH JM OFFICIAL HAIRCARE

Hair stylist turned entrepreneur Jude Mitchell from Omagh used lockdown to set up a business to provide the highest quality haircare and accessories.

As an award-winning hair stylist Jude Mitchell believes everyone deserves to have salon perfect hair.

At her salon HighMaintenance in Omagh, which she runs with her best friend Natalie, customers always leave feeling confident with beautiful hair.

And for many years Jude, 32, has been advising her customers on the proper hair accessories and tools to use to create a great look between appointments.

Jude knows that the correct brushes and tools make all the difference when it comes to home styling.

TELL US ABOUT JM OFFICIAL HAIRCARE? As a hairdresser I believe everyone should be able to have good hair and JM Official Haircare is all about professional haircare and accessories.

From hairbrushes to designer silk scrunchies, I’ve got you covered. I hate waste and love to shop local, so I try to bring that to JM Official Haircare too. All my packaging can be reused or repurposed. And I try to source as much as possible as close to home as I can.

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO SET UP YOUR OWN BUSINESS? So, with the pandemic forcing her salon to close and Jude’s customers seeking advice on how to maintain their styles, the time was right to start a business.

Jude used all her expertise and spent months researching new products to set up JM Official Haircare – an online business providing customers with the highest quality haircare and accessories. The products are available on the official website www.jmofficialhaircare.co.uk and also in her salon.

The Omagh entrepreneur tells Local Women how she used her free time during lockdown to start the business she had always dreamed off.

It’s something that has always been at the back of my mind to do, and between our salon being closed and my poor husband (probably after hearing me banging on about it for too long) was the one that eventually made me take the jump and just go for it.

HOW DID YOU GET STARTED?

I had an idea about what I wanted so it started off with a lot of researching and a lot of nights sitting figuring everything out and getting feedback from family and friends.

HOW LONG DID IT TAKE FROM IDEA TO ACTUALLY SELLING? It took a few months from I started researching to my first brush sale. It felt like it took forever for everything to come together. But I wanted everything to be perfect and the best quality.

always have a special place in my heart, just because it’s where it all began. But I always get so excited about a new product when it’s launching.

WHERE CAN YOU BUY JM OFFICIAL PRODUCTS? You can buy everything online at www. jmofficialhaircare.co.uk and in HighMaintenance in Omagh. And hopefully you’ll see JM Official Products in some other salons very soon.

HOW HAS LOCKDOWN AFFECTED YOUR BUSINESS?

TALK US THROUGH THE PRODUCT RANGE? JM Official Haircare was born in lockdown. It I started with The WonderBrush. It’s the ultimate detangling brush for wet or dry hair and now comes in three colours. Then I added a ConditionerComb. I now have Pinny - a pin tail comb, the SuperComb - the perfect tool for creating soft glamorous waves. Silk and Silky scrunchies and Curl Clips as well as my Get A Grip Box, which is the perfect handbag accessory.

I’m working on a few new launches coming soon.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE PRODUCT IN THE RANGE? How could I pick? I genuinely love all my products, but I think the WonderBrush will

definitely pushed me to start a website which I was really nervous about, because I don’t get on very well with computers. But I probably could not have continued my business without it.

WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS FOR THE FUTURE OF THE BUSINESS? Hopefully in the very near future JM Official Haircare products will be popping up in salons throughout Northern Ireland and the UK. As well as a whole host of new products being launched, there will hopefully be an exciting collaboration coming too. Christmas will be BIG!

www.jmofficialhaircare.co.uk Connect with us at @jmofficialhaircare

40 | Local Women Magazine

JMofficialHaircare

jm_official_haircare

Joanna Denton

You got this!

You’ve worked hard and finally received that promotion you always wanted – but now it’s turned into a nightmare as you struggle to delegate and are exhausted all the time. Business mentor Joanna Denton shows you how to get to grips with your new role.

Dear Joanna, I work in an accounting firm and was promoted to manager six months ago. I was delighted to get the promotion, but now my life is a nightmare. I spend my days putting out fires, everyone wants a piece of me, and I am exhausted. My day seems to be all about getting my team unstuck and finishing work that they should be doing so I know it’s good enough.

How can I get my life back?

Maggie

organisation and/ or (b) those that are easy to drop, delegate or outsource.

Of these, decide which you can drop completely and go ahead and delegate the others as appropriate.

You might think that everything you do is important and cannot be done by anyone else. If you are unsure about whether you can delegate or drop certain things, speak to your boss or mentor for guidance.

Let’s keep them off your plate.

Dear Maggie,

Congratulations on the promotion! This is a real milestone in your career, and you should be proud of yourself.

Secondly – precisely that - this is a real milestone in your career. Career transitions like this can be the most challenging times of anyone’s career - none more so than the first step into managing a team.

Before you could just do the work; as manager, you need to shift focus to getting the work done by the team.

This is challenging because you need to let go of enjoyable work that had previously defined your success; you have to allocate time to support and coach your team; and you must trust someone else to do the work to the standards you expect.

HERE ARE A COUPLE OF THINGS THAT MIGHT HELP.

You mention in your email that you spend your time getting your team unstuck and finishing work that they should be doing.

Part of your role as manager is to be there to help your team if they have problems, so I am afraid that you do need to allocate time to that.

It can be incredibly tempting to take back and finish work that you have delegated to your team, particularly if you are worried that the standard of the work will not be up to what you would do.

But this is not the answer. This will do nothing more than frustrate and de-motivate your team.

You need a different approach, one based on encouraging them to problem solve for themselves.

•

Be clear when you delegate as to what you expect in terms of deliverable and standards.

•

If they are new to the job explain how to get the job done; if they are more experienced, trust them to take care of the “how” within the framework of deliverables. Distinguish between the form the final product takes, and the content. If the content is right, stop clinging to a particular form just because you would have done it that way.

Let’s get some things off your plate.

When you are running around putting out fires, it is hard to think about anything else. So, let’s get some stuff off your plate.

Write down a list of the things that you do on a regular basis and identify the low value activities.

These are activities that are (a) not that important to either you (your role and objectives) or the

•

Help them anticipate common pitfalls in advance and identify resources available to

overcome those pitfalls.

•

If they come to you because they are stuck, resist the temptation to simply tell them how to get unstuck.

Instead ask them questions to help them identify the problem, think about different solutions, and guide them to the best way forward.

• Only take back the work as a last resort, e.g., if critical deadlines will be missed, if there will be a major impact on the overall project, or if major mistakes will be made.

Working this way will develop your team’s problem-solving skills, encourage them to take ownership of the solution, and free up time in the future when they solve the problems for themselves without needing to revert to you.

And finally Taking on a promotion is a big step, and it can take a while to settle in as you get to grips with a new role. Take baby steps where needed and do prioritise time for yourself to rest and recover. If you think you need some training on the new aspects of the job, talk to your boss and ask for some.

And remember to breathe! You’ve got this!

Joanna

JD Speaking and Strategy Ltd River House | 48-60 High Street | Belfast | BT1 2BE T: +44 (0)7795085297 |E: joanna@joannadenton.com For further information check out

www.joannadenton.com Local Women Magazine | 41

COMPETITON TIME

Win a little luxury with Buick House Candles

Buick House Candles is offering one lucky Local Women Magazine reader the chance to awaken their senses with this amazing competition.

Buick House Candles is a luxury candle range handmade in Co Down.

The beautifully scented candles evoke memories of happy days and promote relaxation at a time when self-care is of paramount importance.

Lose yourself in the gorgeous scents which have been carefully curated by owner Gail Lynas, who followed her dreams and set up her business during lockdown.

Gail’s candles are hand-poured in a Co.Down studio and she wants all her customers to feel a sense of well being when using her products.

And now Gail is offering you the chance to try her candles with this amazing competition.

One reader will win some wonderful products from this bespoke range of beautifully scented candles.

THE PRIZE IS: • The Spring/Summer fragrances from the Buick House Candle range The Lane, The Meadow and the new fragrance, The Kitchen Garden • a glass cloche to keep a favourite candle dust free • a French, wooden, indoor/outdoor candle lantern To win this lovely prize simply answer the following question.

Where is Buick House Candles based?

A: Co Antrim B: Co Down C: Co Fermanagh Email your answer A, B or C to editor@localwomensnews.com. Don’t forget to include your address and a daytime phone number. Closing date is midnight on May 31, 2021. Winner will be contacted directly. No purchase is necessary. This competition is hosted by Local Women on behalf of Buick House Candles. No cash alternative offered. Prize may vary. Over 18s only. Editor’s decision is final.

42 | Local Women Magazine

Signature Dish Struggling for recipe ideas?

Check out these tasty recipes using Scotts Flavoured Crispy Onions

CRISPY ONION AND CHILLI BEEF NACHOS PREPARATION TIME: 10 Minutes | COOKING TIME: 15 Minutes | SERVES: 4 People INGREDIENTS • 90g Scotts steak flavoured crispy onions FOR THE CHILLI BEEF • 1 teaspoon olive oil • 1 shallot, peeled and finely chopped • 500g lean steak mince • 2 garlic cloves, crushed • 1 heaped teaspoon chilli powder • 250ml quality beef stock • 2 tablespoons tomato puree • 400g can of black beans, drained • Freshly milled salt and pepper TO SERVE • 200g lightly salted corn tortilla chips • 100g cherry tomatoes, quartered • 150g grated cheddar • 2 tablespoons sour cream • A small handful of fresh coriander, roughly chopped

METHOD

Heat the olive oil in a large non stick frying pan and gently fry the chopped shallot for a few minutes until soft.

Add steak mince to the pan and break the meat up with the spoon as it cooks and browns.

Stir in the garlic, chilli powder, beef stock, tomato puree and bring to a boil, then reduce the temperature and simmer for 10 minutes until the sauce thickens. Season and stir in black beans.

TO SERVE

Arrange tortilla chips onto plates and top with chilli. Sprinkle with tomatoes, grated cheddar, Scotts crispy steak flavoured crispy onions tomatoes and coriander.

Drizzle with creme fraiche, and squeeze over lime juice before serving.

CHECK OUT NEXT MONTHS LOCAL WOMEN FOR A DELICIOUS BREAKFAST RECIPE Find us on Instagram & Facebook

44 | Local Women Magazine

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Find us on Instagram & Facebook Local Women Magazine | 45

A DYNAMIC APPROACH TO FITNESS Dolores McVeigh-Smyth is in the best shape of her life with her transformative Pilates sessions - and now she wants to help you achieve your fitness goals at Dynamic Studio

Dynamic Studio, founded by Dolores McVeigh-Smyth in 2020, is an online fitness studio teaching Pilates to both beginners and advanced individuals.

Having been in the fitness industry for over 30 years, Dolores is happiest when helping people be the best version of themselves and when the COVID-19 pandemic struck in 2019, it was a catalyst for her to focus on being able to do exactly that and Dynamic Studio was born.

Dolores qualified as a sports therapist in the early 80s with her thesis on the Alexander Technique specialising in postural gait and Swedish massage.

Dolores has always been a self-starter, starting by teaching aerobics and step aerobics in church halls and gyms. Teaching took Dolores as far as Canada where she worked in Powerhouse Gym in Toronto. Dolores’ love of fitness has been a constant throughout her life and she has attended classes and workshops around the world, always developing and learning new approaches and techniques along the way, dramatically changing the way she trains herself and teaches today.

Dolores attended her first Pilates class seven years ago and found it life changing. Having recently turned 50, she admits that she is in the best shape of her life, with time spent training reduced by a staggering 50%.

Best of all, by being a lot kinder to her body, she is injury free and has been rewarded with a flexible, mobile, strong and toned body.

As a busy wife & mum, Dolores left behind the world of 9 to 5 and designed her unique evolving programme which can be done from the comfort of your own home. Understanding how life can be busy and even hectic at times, Dolores wanted to create a series of simple and enjoyable sessions which are do-able and crucially, proven to work, for all fitness levels.

Incorporating diet, training and lifestyle advice into her sessions, Dynamic Studio is the fuel you need to reach your fitness goals.

If you are ready to experience the transformative power of Pilates workouts, Dolores at Dynamic Studio can be contacted at dolores@studiodynamic.co.uk or on 07841421451 to book a place on her fitness programme!

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Enjoy making plans As lockdown eases, Wedding Planner Kristal Olphert from Maiden Weddings is here to help you plan your big day.

I’M HERE TO HELP

It’s finally happening, we are coming out of lockdown!

I run an advice clinic over Zoom offering help and guidance for couples who require professional and legal advice with price increases, changes to their contracts, loss of deposits and suppliers who can no longer commit to the wedding date and much more. If you need this help, please go to www. maidenwedings.com and sign up for a date and time that suits you.

This is such an exciting time for us all and especially for those of you who are engaged and planning your wedding day. With the regulations relaxing , I am here to guide you through what you should be doing right now to plan your perfect wedding and how to overcome any issues along the way.

BOOK IN YOUR HAIR AND MAKEUP TRIALS With close contact services now open you can go and plan your appointments as necessary with your hairdresser and MUA. Depending on when you are getting married you should ideally have your consultation with your hairdresser and make-up artist around three months before the wedding. If you are getting married soon and haven’t yet had your consultation, trial or cut and colour, then please reach out to me and I can help you arrange appointments with my suppliers who may be able to fit you in sooner.

SAY ‘YES’ TO THE DRESS I have teamed up with some of the industry’s best experts to talk all things wedding dresses and what to do now that you can go and find your perfect dress or bridesmaids dresses.

Bridal shops will still have social distancing in place for the foreseeable future so it’s important that you take along your closest advisers when trying on dresses. They should be the people who will lift you up and encourage you to try new styles and the people whose opinions you trust more than anyone’s.

HAVE A HEN PARTY

(even if you’re already married!)

Outdoor hospitality is finally open, and I hope by now you have had the opportunity to meet up with friends, family and your bridal party. If you missed any celebrations during lockdown then consider hosting a get together now in a local venue. Don’t deny yourself the happiness that getting engaged brings or having that hen party even though you got married over lockdown. There are so many things on offer for outdoor hospitality but here is my favourite suggestion. Bottomless brunch is huge right now and many venues are offering amazing prices for groups of you to get together in their beautiful outdoor spaces. It provides the perfect excuse to get the props out, get the girls together and have fun and celebrate you while you can all sit back and relax.

GET BACK TO PLANNING Once you have the celebrations completed then it’s on to the serious planning stages again. Contact your suppliers and ensure that they are still available on your date and that nothing has changed from their perspective. Give the venue a call first and ask them as much as possible about their restrictions and how it will impact on the day. The number of guests that can attend your wedding ceremony has now been increased and is based upon the risk assessment provided by the venue; this number should be made very clear to you well in advance of your ceremony. Normally the venue will ask you to sign a declaration to say that you understand the regulations and the restrictions that they have put in place for their venue, read it carefully and ensure that you can and will comply before signing it.

As part of my re-opening, I have completed a surefire way to help grow your partnership closer by offering you all a free downloadable document of fun things to do together on the build up to the wedding day.

This ensures that you are keeping your relationship alive and focusing on the person you are marrying. In conjunction with this, I will be hosting podcasts and Instagram lives with relationship experts and coaches on how to communicate with each other using our love languages.

If you don’t know what your love language is then listen in as it is an amazing way really connect and understand each other better. Believe me after 10 years of marriage it’s never to, early or too late to connect and reconnect with your other half, I cannot recommend this enough to you all, it will really nurture your relationships and it’s free!

In the event that you come across any issues with your venue or suppliers that you did not foresee or expect then be open and communicate clearly and ask them to explain everything including price increases to you fully and in writing where necessary.

While the countdown to the wedding day ticks down it’s a good time to recap on what needs to be done and when. Take another look at your timeline and ensure that you have all your essentials booked in for the day. Then go out and enjoy the process and get back to normal life and making plans in a world that isn’t in lockdown.

www.maidenweddings.com E: maidenweddings@gmail.com

Local Women Magazine | 49

Totally Tropical

Houston Homewares has re-opened with some bold and exotic looks to bring a little colour to your home.

Create a bold statement with tropical print wallpaper, use as an accent wall, panel inserts or be extra bold and do the whole room. I find covering all walls in a small space that often gets overlooked like a WC or utility room can add a touch of dramatic design to otherwise drab rooms. If strong colours on the walls really isn’t your thing, then consider a more neutral tone print that will still create an impact but with a greater sense of space.

The influence of tropical botanical prints, exotic animal motifs and bold, bright colour ways have provided a little timely escapism as it’s been quite a while since any of us have enjoyed international travel.

As the trend towards rich saturated colours continues to grow, these bold prints compliment the deep moody paint tones and add a touch of decadence and intrigue to a space. Even with more neutral schemes the fixed elements like walls, curtains and furniture can be more muted with accessories and cushions bringing some tropical flair. With little else to be doing and so much time at home the focus has very much been on home improvements, a fresh new look at home can lift your mood and we enjoy nothing more than helping our customers create rooms that they love.

If you want to get in on the tropical trend here are some tips for introducing exotic decorative elements into your home.

50 | Local Women Magazine

The maximalism trend rules would say to clash prints and colours. I would tend to sway more towards a plain or textured curtain fabric along with a tropical print wall covering. Or flip it around and go for a textured wallpaper and a tropical curtain fabric. I believe that a room shouldn’t have too many focal points. A scheme needs to work as a whole, if every element has too much going on it becomes busy and confusing. It’s even more important to consider the wall decor, lamps etc when using a bold tropical print as the talking point. Everything else should sit comfortably and compliment it rather than fight for attention. Choose fine minimal frame mirrors, artwork and plain or textured lampshades, having a few subtle references to tropical influences is the goal, no one wants a ‘theme’ room.

Cushions instantly transform a room. If you’re looking for a quick way of adding some tropical influence, then this is the way to do it.

Again, less is more. There are some striking prints available, but they don’t necessarily all work well together.

Choose the print that you really love and compliment it with block colour and textured cushions. Pulling out a colour from your print and using

it as a colour block behind your pattern will further enhance the look. Don’t obsess over matching colours exactly, variations in tones of the same root colour can add to the depth of a scheme.

Artwork and accessories are also fantastic ways of introducing fun, colourful pattern into a room, again look at what you already have got going on in the space, a tropical piece of art can look great on plain or textured walls but would be too much on busy wallpaper.

Accessories will add that finishing touch, anchoring the scheme with pieces that compliment your decor completes a room and makes it feel more homely.

Houston Homewares has now re-opened, and we are excited to welcome customers old and new into our store. Call in to shop the new collection, our wonderful home fragrance range or simply for a browse! And follow us on Facebook and Instagram @houstonhomewares for the latest product arrivals and interior design projects.

Tackling stress with Magnetix Local Women columnist and Magnetix consultant Karen Acheson from Ballymoney recommends natural remedies for anxiety, low energy and stress.

The pandemic has taken its toll on both adults and children - and anxiety has been a very real problem for many of us.

In recent months I have fallen victim to these issues as the stress of the current situation becomes hard to deal with.

Even as we are coming out of lockdown, the stress of our ever-changing situation can be tough to cope with.

As a retired Registered Nurse with mental health training, I am not exempt from experiencing these feelings. But as a Magnetix consultant I work with a range of natural products that have given me relief and my customers have reported great results.

USING WATER PRODUCTS A selection of watersticks and coasters are available to suit individual lifestyles. These help to separate the molecules in water, so it passes easily through the body’s cell membranes to help with hydration.

Customers have reported benefits such as increased energy, reduced fatigue, improvement in skin conditions and also relief of bowel and gastric problems.

WEARING MAGNETIX PRODUCTS Wearing a strong magnet helps to balance the body’s natural magnetic field and strengthen the core, giving a feeling of stability and being grounded. This in turn helps with low mood, high stress/anxiety levels and aids more restful sleep.

ORAL WELLNESS PRODUCTS WITH CBD This oil contains a natural extract from the hemp plant and helps regulate numerous biological processes within the body. This promotes better rest, helps with fatigue and relieves pain.

NEGATIVE ION THERAPY Anyone using phones, computers, machinery and any other technology on a regular basis is surrounded by positive ions, resulting in feeling more tired, lethargic and suffering from frequent headaches.

Wearing negative ion silicon bracelets, necklaces and Powerhearts have helped many customers with insomnia, anxiety and fatigue.

There’s a range of these products available for adults, children and animals.

CUSTOMER TESTIMONIALS Evelyn from Ballymoney says: “Since using my waterstick to stir all my fluids, soups, stews and yoghurts, the heartburn and indigestion I suffered has completely gone. I highly recommend these products.”

Irene from Ballymoney says: “Thank you SO, SO very much Karen for your help in past days. I recommend the CBD drops for my depression.”

Headaches | Vertigo | Sinus Problems | Migraines Hormonal Imbalances | Tired Legs - Circulation | Low / High Pressure Sleeping Disorders | Neck & Back Pain

HOW TO ORDER Please feel free to contact me any Tuesday or Thursday evenings between 7-10pm to discuss best products for individual needs.

Telephone 07872558486 Check out my Facebook page to view live recordings and get more info on “Karen Acheson Magnetix.”

Browse my online shop at www.Karen.magnetix-wellness.com HOW TO PAY By card over the phone, online bank transfer or PayPal. Minimum charge for p+p.

Local Women Magazine | 51

STOCKISTS OF

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www.johnashannon.co.uk 52 | Local Women Magazine

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@rbfcosmetics Local Women Magazine | 53

Council helps steer businesses on smooth pathway to Covid recovery and encourages the public to Shop Local.

It’s been a challenging year for local businesses who have once again reopened their doors to the public after over 100 days of lockdown, and it will be a testing time ahead as they adapt to a new environment where safety and reassurance are the key priority over revenue.

the Small Spend Makes a Giant Difference campaign in the coming weeks.

Derry City and Strabane District Council have been working closely with the local business community in recent months to prepare them for the future and Valerie Manning Jewellers, Strabane to ensure they are equipped with the knowledge carefully developed in conjunction with Council’s and support they need to welcome the public back Environment Health officer team. through their doors.

Representatives from Council’s Environmental Health Officers have engaged regularly with the business team have been on the ground over recent months community since the beginning of the pandemic through offering support and guidance to businesses where a City and Town Centre Stakeholder group to help needed to ensure a smooth transition for the reopening manage the effects of Covid-19. This helped shape a of services as Seamus Donaghy, Head of Health and range of interventions including Covid workshops, one Community Wellbeing, explained. to one mentoring support and delivering Covid specific business grants designed to help start-ups and SMEs as “Staff have been out on the ground offering they resume trading during these unprecedented times. advice on compliance and assisting with the planned reopening of retail,” he said.

A number of initiatives have also now been launched to help business owners respond to the changing “Officers have also been carrying out programmed requirements of the government restrictions as they ease, Food Safety and Health and Safety inspections including the development of the COVID Reassurance of businesses on a limited basis following the Mark aimed at supporting local businesses and re- completion of Covid Risk Assessments and Safe instilling confidence in the public to return to town Systems of Work procedures.

“Business Recovery Grants have also allowed them to plan ahead for the resumption of trading and meet the challenges posed by social distancing and other restrictions but they need the public to get behind them and shop local in the weeks and months ahead to ensure a successful return to full trading.

centres and support the local economy.

This scheme offers reassurance to the public that businesses are adhering to safety rules, with a fivestep self-declaration of safety measures including the completion of a risk assessment focusing on important elements such as cleaning, hand sanitising, social distancing, respiratory hygiene and employee health. Once businesses are satisfied they have fulfilled these criteria they can apply for an official Covid Reassurance Mark to be displayed on their premises. The self-declaration process has been

Devine Scents

“The government support that businesses have received through business grants and the furlough scheme has facilitated their closure for long periods and allowed them to retain staff.

“Earlier this month we hosted our annual Enterprise Week events with a comprehensive programme to help guide local entrepreneurs through the Covid recovery phase. The free online events were well attended and offered support in building business resilience and tailoring operations and services to meet the demand of the reopening of trading.”

The Small Spend Makes a Giant Difference campaign aims to encourage a strong shop local message on “We’ve been working alongside Council’s Business supporting local independent businesses relying on the team on the Covid Reassurance scheme which has return of regular customers and new business. been designed to support local economic recovery and revitalisation while respecting the public health controls People are asked to think about where they spend their money and the ripple effect of spending money locally to reduce the spread of the virus. rather than online, keeping the positive impact within “The initiative is focused on boosting customer the local economy. confidence to return to our town centres and villages in the knowledge that businesses are taking the positive steps needed to keep customers safe. It will be a very busy time for local businesses as people are keen to get back to their local shops, and we want to make sure they are ready to make the most of this return of business by creating and maintaining the right trading environment.”

Council’s Business support team have been advising local businesses throughout the pandemic, helping them tap into support grants and source the appropriate aid for their individual needs. Head of Business with Council, Kevin O’Connor, said his team would now be looking at further ways to keep the momentum behind the recovery of the local economy, with plans to resume

For full details and a guide to shopping local visit shoplocalderrystrabane.com 54 | Local Women Magazine

“We have supported a number of new startups who have emerged as a direct result of the lockdown restrictions and this is an exciting period for them as the reopening of our towns and cities creates new opportunities.

Atelier

your small spend makes a

GIANT

difference #supportlocalderrystrabane shoplocalderrystrabane.com

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Local Women Magazine | 55

BEAUTIFULLY BESPOKE BLINDS...CONTACT US TODAY TO ARRANGE A FREE AND NO OBLIGATION CONSULTATION.

Newry Street | Kilkeel | Co Down | T: 028 4176 2315 |

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Lift Suppliers Northern Ireland

With over 30 years experience in the lift industry, Patterson Lifts Ltd have been delivering Stairlifts, Goods and Passenger Lifts for businesses and homes across Ireland and in the UK mainland.

With over 45 years experience in the industry, Patterson Lifts have already made their mark in the UK and Irish Market Place with completed contracts in Dublin, Kingscourt, Oxford, Manchester, Birmingham, Bedford, Pall Mall in London, Londonderry & Coventry to name but a few and we have worked along side major builders such as GA, Ganson & Grahams.

Our lift installations just don’t stop at new sites as we are involved in refurbs and lift replacements; a recent replacement for a lift installed by us 25 years ago within the Cultra Folk Museum Complex using one of our new Hybrid lifts.

We have a full range of lifts starting from Stairlifts for domestic use, Access Lifts, Goods Lifts from small Micro lifts to larger box and pallet lifts and high speed Traction Passenger lifts.

We have recently designed a very special Hybrid Plus lift which provides all the benefits of a full Passenger/Bed Lift without the need to provide all of the expensive building works and costs associated with it.

We look forward receiving your enquiry and assisting you with your project.

58 | Local Women Magazine

SEE NEXT MONTH’S LOCAL WOMEN MAGAZINE FOR OUR NEW FEATURE

THROUGH THE KEYHOLE

We visit the home of influencer Cliona Arthur and her Architect husband Jason Arthur thestylebee

nestarchitect Local Women Magazine | 59

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TACKLING SPORTS INJURIES AT NWIH

As sport gets underway again, at North West Independent Hospital there is a dedicated team of physiotherapists who can keep you moving with no waiting lists.

As the Northern Ireland Assembly starts to lift restrictions on participating in sport and gyms reopen, we are mindful of the fact that for the past year most people have not been as active as they normally would be.

Conditions frequently treated include: • • • • • • •

This will have led to becoming deconditioned - so to avoid injury, our advice to the public would be to start re-introducing exercise slowly, work within your capability and always take time to stretch and allow for recovery in between training sessions.

Back and neck injuries Shoulder injuries Muscle strains or tears Ligament injuries Achilles Tendon problems Plantar fasciitis, Rehabilitation following surgery e.g.: ligament reconstruction, hip and knee replacement, spinal surgery, shoulder surgery etc.

This advice coupled with maintaining proper nutrition and hydration, and wearing suitable footwear and clothing applies to anyone who has gone through a period of reduced or inactivity, whether you are a recreational runner or cyclist, take part in team sports, enjoy gym exercise or classes or simply enjoy hiking in the beautiful countryside.

Our team of Physiotherapists have access to the expertise within the Hospital and are able to refer to other specialisms such as Orthopaedic Consultants, Specialist Podiatrists, Hand Therapists and MRI.

The Consultant led specialist team at the North West Independent Hospital expect that over the next few weeks and months they will see an increase in sports related injuries. In addition to their expertise in assessing and diagnosing injuries, our Consultants have access to x-ray and MRI. Unlike the NHS the North West Independent Hospital does not have waiting lists. To see one of our Consultants all we require is a referral from the patient’s GP. Some sports are covered by their team insurance but where this is not the case prices for procedures are available and are not always as costly as you might imagine.

Hilary Finlay BSc Hons, PgDipHSc, PgDip ORT is the team lead and joined the North West Independent Hospital in 2000 after returning from New Zealand.

She has worked extensively in the health service and in private practice and has considerable experience of physiotherapy treatment following orthopaedic surgery and musculoskeletal injuries and recently completed post graduate qualifications in Orthopaedic Technology and Rehabilitation.

With 32 years’ experience the North West Independent Hospital is well equipped to take patients from their initial Consultation, through to surgery , if required, and onto post-operative rehabilitation and after care.

Hilary Finlay BSc Hons, PgDipHSc, PgDip ORT

All our Physiotherapists are registered with the Health Care Professionals Council (HCPC) and the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP).

Hilary Finlay and Manus MacGabhann

Our services are used by IFA, FAI, GAA counties and clubs who recognise we have some of the leading expert health professionals.

Our Physiotherapy Clinic and Orthopaedic Consultants are skilled at managing a wide range of sports and outdoor activity related injuries.

Our physiotherapists are highly skilled and use a variety of clinical techniques, drawing on evidence from research to support their treatment and rehabilitation programmes and are always looking for new advances in order to give patients the best possible outcomes from treatment.

If aches and pains are affecting your training or enjoyment of exercise, our team of Physiotherapists are on hand to assess the problem and to give you advice on the most appropriate treatment pathway. This may include individualised targeted exercises to help improve your condition, manual therapy, acupuncture or other modalities such as extra -corporeal shockwave therapy. Our goal is to help patients rehabilitate following injuries or surgery and to prevent reinjury so that they can remain active and continue enjoying exercising and participation in sporting activities.

Manus MacGabhann BSc Hons, MSc joined the Physiotherapy Team at the North West Independent Hospital in 2015. He has worked with elite athletes in rugby, Gaelic football and soccer. He has a particular interest in rehabilitation following post-operative surgery and sports injuries and in the management of chronic pain syndromes.

The Physiotherapy Team is also supported by Peter McCormick BSC Hons, who has gained extensive experience treating acute orthopaedic injuries, soft tissue injuries and fractures.

The North West Independent Hospital is registered with most major health providers. If you wish to book a Physiotherapy appointment through your health Insurance a referral from

Manus MacGabhann BSc Hons, MSc

your GP or a Consultant may be required.

You can also choose to self-fund and in this case a referral is not required, you simply ring through to the Hospital Physiotherapy Clinic and we will arrange an appointment for you.

North West Independent Hospital Church Hill House | Ballykelly | Limavady | Northern Ireland | BT49 9HS T +44 (0) 28 7776 3090 F +44 (0) 28 7776 8306 E info@nwih.co.uk

www.nwih.co.uk 70 | Local Women Magazine

PREPARING FOR A GOOD HAIR DAY

With hairdressers back at work, Local Women’s hair expert Charlene Hawthorne from Haus of Hair helps you get ready for the most important appointment of the month.

APPOINTMENT PREP

Eeekkk! Salons are finally open!

I recommend using a deep cleansing shampoo such as Alfaparf Semi di Lino Purify to remove any build up on your hair before colouring.

This will ensure optimum results as a lot of home lotions and potions create a barrier around the hair with can affect the colouring service.

Stylists up and down the country are buzzing now that we are back at work – don’t forget our last day of opening was December 24, so that’s quite a stretch.

With that in mind I have focused this month’s column on getting back into the swing of things, what and what not to do during your upcoming appointments.

DISCOUNT CODE FOR OLAPLEX

THE BRAND NEW EASI-CURL

HOW TO MAKE YOUR APPOINTMENT.

•

Suitable for all hair types, even fine fragile hair

•

6 adjustable heat settings 150 – 200 degrees

•

Use it on the go lightweight compact and cordless

•

Create curls and waves

•

Damageless: ceramic coating technology perfect for sensitive hair

Every salon has a different protocol in place, for example you may need to add yourself to a waiting list, or email only, or call and leave a message etc. So firstly, find out what protocol your salon is implementing, when contacting your salon of choice try to give as much info as possible in one go - for example the full service you require, days and times that work for you and your preferred stylist this saves a lot of back and forward messaging especially at a time where every salons inbox is at maximum capacity.

•

Completely automatic no skill required!

BE HONEST!

•

Anti tangle, auto lock system turns off after 10mins if not used, heat proof body, comes with charging cable

But first, I’m excited to announce the launch of our brand new Easi-curl. Create your unique style at the press of a button.

See it in action on Instagram @hausofhairhq

Do not book for highlights and stroll into your appointment with sunset orange roots from your previous DIY disaster and expect the salon to have time to do full corrective work. Lay it all out during booking so the stylist knows what to expect and allocates the appropriate time.

SKIN TEST

Yes, I know - it’s the height of inconvenience to call in to have it done. But there is evidence to suggest that there’s a heightened risk of allergic reaction after having Covid. Most reactions are mild, but a severe reaction (anaphylaxis or anaphylactic shock) can be life threatening.

Even if your stylist isn’t demanding you have a skin test, I would still recommend calling in for one at least 48 hours before your colour appointment. It takes two minutes and if you were to have a reaction at your appointment without being skin tested prior, the salon’s insurance would be null and void.

Using good hair care to keep your hair healthy will allow to stylist more freedom with colouring. For example, with bleaching if the hair is damaged your stylist may not wish to lighten it further. We stock the entire Olaplex range on our website www.hausofhairhq. com to help heal broken bonds in the hair.

Its patented technology cannot be beaten!

It will stop damage in its tracks use your discount code localwomen10 for your 10 per cent discount.

CONSULTATION

If your hair hasn’t been professionally coloured since before Christmas, please have realistic expectations about what can be achieved.

Box dye black isn’t going platinum in one appointment! Be honest with your stylist if you have been colouring at home, trust me we can tell. Being open and realistic in consultation is going to leave you both buzzing about your new hair and no surprises for the stylist when she opens a foil to check your processing.

If you’re recommended products, buy them!

No stylist is retiring off the £3 profit from a bottle of shampoo – so if they are telling you to get this product, it’s because your hair needs it!

I am looking forward to seeing all your hair journeys, tag me @knotsosecretdiary. There’s nothing more satisfying than a good before and after pic! All the products mentioned in this article are available on www.hausofhairhq.com with an exclusive discount code localwomen10 Until next month,

Charlene x

Find us at www.hausofhairhq.com Haus of hair HQ

hausofhairhq

72 | Local Women Magazine

THE FUTURE IS BRIGHT AT THE MAKE UP PRO STORE At the Make Up Pro Store there are some great courses on offer to help you get a new career in make up artistry on track.

HELLO PROLOVERS! We are delighted to announce our Make Up Pro Store is back up and running, after the latest easing of restrictions.

So, let’s get down to what is happening at Make Up Pro Store this May.

PRODUCT OF THE MONTH It is often said a bad work person blames their tools, potentially in construction this may be correct (however we wouldn’t exactly know much about that!) But when it comes to make up, the proper tools really are important. When doing make up, your make up brushes are one of the core essentials to creating a perfect look, and ensuring your eye make up looks as effortless as possible. Which is why, you NEED Paddy McGurgan Brush No.19 £11.50. What Hagrid is to Harry, is what this brush is to Paddy McGurgan!

Its soft bristles ensure a perfect wash of colour, however, is a perfect size, whether you are creating a dark or light eye look! It is the perfect brush!

FASHION AND PHOTOGRAPHIC MAKE UP ARTISTRY ACADEMY DATE: Beginning Monday 14th June 2021 finishing Sunday 23rd August TIME: Starting at 10am finishing at 5pm with time for lunch.

DISCOUNT: 15% off all products on the ITEC COURSE: £1550

FIVE WEEK BEGINNERS COURSE DATE: Beginning Sunday 30th May 2021 finishing Sunday 4th July 2021 (Five Sundays- SKIPS, Sunday 20th June) TIME: Starting at 10am finishing at 5pm with time for lunch.

DISCOUNT: 15% off all products on the day.

DEPOSIT: £650

PADDY MCGURGAN CERTIFICATION £1250

ABOUT THE COURSE: This is a fast paced and intensive Make Up Artistry Academy with Paddy McGurgan and his senior team. Turn your love and passion for make up and beauty into a career with the help of award-winning Make Up Trainer Paddy McGurgan.

This course will encompass all areas and aspects of make up artistry to ensure you are not only industry ready, but ready to excel in your chosen field. Whether it be soft glam make up, night time make up , mature make up, bridal make up or editorial, Paddy and his team will allow and nurture your artistry to ensure you finish your course feeling motivated, confident and ready to begin a new and exciting career.

TOTAL: £300 REMAINDER OF FEE: Due a week before the course starts.

ABOUT THE COURSE: Make Up Pro Store’s Five Week Beginners Course provides an intense and inspiring introduction into the world of professional make up artistry. This course is suitable for beginners who want to improve their personal presentation skills or for those who want to explore a professional career as a Make Up Artist.

108-112 Royal Avenue, Belfast, Co Antrim, BT1 1DL

www.makeupprostore.co.uk 74 | Local Women Magazine

GOODBYE OIL TANK, HELLO COOKING ON NATURAL GAS

Did you know that when you switch to natural gas not only do you say Goodbye oil tank, you

say hello to a multitude of benefits such as more space inside and outside your home, constant hot water, instant heating, and smart controls.

One of the many benefits our customers love is ‘cooking on gas!’ Cooking on natural gas is the top choice of professional chefs, and each week householder’s across Northern Ireland are making the smart switch away from oil.

HEALTHY POTATO SALAD INGREDIENTS • 500 g small new potatoes • 25 ml white wine vinegar • 1 tsp. Dijon mustard • 1 tsp. wholegrain mustard

INSTRUCTIONS Boil the potatoes in salted water for 20 mins until just cooked, drain, then cool.

Cut the potatoes into chunks, then place into a bowl with the radish, chives, dill, and spring onions and Bind.

• 75 ml extra-virgin olive oil

Mix the olive oil, vinegar, honey, and mustards

• 2 tsp. honey

then combine with the potato mix.

• bunch chives, finely chopped

Season to taste with salt and pepper before dressing

Whether you love to cook or can’t cook, we have

• bunch flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped

with the finely chopped parsley and serve.

many customers who have found themselves as

• bunch dill, finely chopped

kitchen whizzes, after having had gas installed,

• 10 radish, topped and tailed, finely sliced

as the saying goes “life’s easy now you’re

• Salt & Pepper to taste

cooking on gas” The ease of cooking on natural gas comes down to the precision, consistency, and flavour which the controllable flame offers. You can cook food faster and with greater ease and precision than any other fuel source. With natural gas, you can control the cooking temperature immediately, unlike electric cookers that take time to heat up and cool down. Natural gas is instant, efficient, and is a cleaner fuel choice.

So as summer makes a welcome return and we prepare to venture outdoors, we have some classic side dishes for you to try out. Whether it’s to accompany A BBQ, a side dish for a meal, or a light lunch we will ensure that by cooking on natural gas you spend minimal time in the kitchen and maximum time unwinding in your happy place.

Say Goodbye oil tank and Hello to fast, full

INGREDIENTS

flavour food, with firmus energy you can! firmus energy natural gas is the ultimate home improvement. Not only do you get more space at your place but you’ll get all the normal benefits

too

including

instant

heat,

ZESTY KALE AND PROSCIUTTO PASTA SALAD

smart

controls, endless hot water, and the peace of mind of never running out. You’ll also be doing your bit for the environment by reducing carbon emissions by up to 48%*.

Right now firmus energy has a number of brilliant offers making it even easier to switch. Choose from 0% finance which means you can spread the cost of installing natural gas over two years or £200 cashback.

So, what are you waiting for? Find out how you can make the switch by heading over to firmusenergy.co.uk/more-space or calling the team on 0330 024 9000.

To date, over 100,000 customers now use

• 3 cups uncooked penne pasta • 8 ounces prosciutto or Parma ham • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved • 1/2 yellow pepper, chopped • 2 cups (packed) kale stems removed and chopped finely • 1/4 cup red onion, chopped finely • 2 cloves chopped Garlic • 1 tsb. lemon juice • Salt & pepper (to taste) • Dressing: • 1/4 cup finely grated parmesan cheese • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar • 3 tablespoons olive oil • 1 clove garlic minced • 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning • 1 teaspoon brown sugar

go along.

INSTRUCTIONS

Combine the pasta and kale with the other

Boil a large, salted pan of water for the pasta.

ingredients in the large salad bowl.

Cook the pasta al dente. Once the pasta is

Add the dressing ingredients to a separate

done, rinse and drain.

bowl using a fork to mix the flavours.

the garden, more efficient boilers to simply

In a lightly oiled pan gently Sautee the kale

Pour the dressing onto the pasta salad

being a better choice for the environment.

with some Garlic and lemon juice, taking care

until coated. Season the pasta salad with

Homes and businesses interested in making

that it remains crisp.

salt & pepper as needed. You can eat it

the switch to firmus energy natural gas can

Meanwhile, prep your other ingredients

right away or chill it for an hour or so

find out more by calling 0330 024 9000 or

and add them to a large salad bowl as you

before eating.

natural gas supplied by firmus energy and are enjoying the benefits that natural gas brings - from constant hot water to more space in

visiting www.firmusenergy.co.uk

78 | Local Women Magazine

HAY FEVER AND HOW TO TREAT IT?

At Chemist Connect, there is a range of products available to combat the misery of hay fever symptoms.

Pollen is the name given to the fine powder produced by flowers, plants and trees to fertilise, which is essential for cross fertilisation.

The term ‘hay fever’ is often loosely used to describe the condition brought on by an allergy to pollen. Pollen can come from a number of sources including grass, flowers and trees.

Grass pollens are the most common cause and tend to affect people in the grass pollen season which tends to be late spring to early summer.

Tree pollens tend to exert their effects from early to late spring.

Other people may be allergic to weed pollens, including nettles and docks, which tend to pollinate from early spring to early autumn.

Essentially the allergic process begins when pollen comes into contact with areas of the body such as the nose or eyes, causing an immune response by releasing chemicals called ‘histamines’.

The immune system normally defends the body against harmful invaders such as viruses and bacteria to ward off illnesses. In people with pollen allergies, the immune system mistakenly identifies the harmless pollen as a

Cetirizine

(Piriton),

include agents such as Becodefence, which establish a thin physical

Loratadine (Clarityn) and Fexofendine (Telfast). Anti-

barrier within the nostrils thereby reducing the adherence of pollens

histamines work to reduce histamine-like reactions,

and in this way blocking their effects. This provides an excellent non-

it is known as an allergen. The reaction leads to

by blocking the chemical effects of histamine

pharmacological choice of treatment for persons wishing to avoid

numerous irritating symptoms, such as persistent

within the body. Thereby reducing the likelihood of

the use of medicinal products.

sneezing, a stuffy nose and watery eyes.

symptoms developing and heightening. Most over-

As with all hay-fever remedies consistency is key and

the-counter anti-histamines are non-drowsy and taken

fundamental to success.

dangerous intruder. It begins to produce chemicals to fight against the pollen. This is known as an allergic reaction, and the specific type of pollen that causes

The incidence of hay fever is on the rise, with

(Zirtek),

Chlorphenamine

in a once daily dose regime, which help to optimise

approximately 30% of Europeans claiming to have

user acceptability and compliance.

symptoms annually. One of the main reasons for this

Those who have persistently itchy eyes may wish to try a sodium cromoglycate based eye drop (Opticrom). These products are known

is likely to be the increasing number of people living

However, if you take an oral anti-histamine and

as “mast cell stabilisers” and exert their effects by reducing cellular

in urban areas relative to the countryside, thereby

find that you still have a persistent runny nose, then

response to histamine release. Typically, drops tend to work better

experiencing increased levels of air pollution and

a steroid nasal spray should be considered. The

the more often and regularly they are used. For best results this should

probable reduced levels of pollen exposure. As such,

most common types are Beclomethasone

be around four times per day. However, they can also be

when urban living people are exposed to pollens, they tend to

(Beconase)

exert a much more potent reaction as tolerance is more likely to

nasal sprays. These medicines reduce the

be established with low level consistent exposure.

localised ‘immune response’ within the nasal

So, what is the best treatment for hay fever? Like many things in

passages, minimising mucus production

life, there isn’t a one size fits all approach. It depends on what

and the tendency to sneeze.

symptoms you are experiencing.

One important point is that they do not exert

is placed around the elbow region (LI-11 point). It is

All people (over two years of age) displaying typical hay fever-

their full therapeutic effect straight away, rather

suitable for use by Adults and Children over 3 years of

like symptoms, be they mild to very severe are recommended

they can take several weeks of consistent use

to take an oral “anti-histamine”. Common examples include

to establish full effect. Alternative products

or

Triamcinolone

(Nasocort)

used on an as and when required basis, according to patient choice and level of symptoms experienced.

Finally, another very popular drug-free hay-fever treatment is the “Hay Band”. This product is based on traditional chinese medicine theories of acupressure points and

age. Anecdotal testimonies report this to be an excellent remedy for managing chronic symptoms.

www.chemistconnect.com | www.chemistconnect.ie Chemist Connect 80 | Local Women Magazine

Chemist Connect IRL

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llluxelounge@gmail.com

Local Women Magazine | 81

MONTHLY COLUMN

Women’s Health WITH DR MARK MCCOMISKEY

Dr Mark McComiskey MD MRCOG is a specialist gynaecologist and gynaecological surgeon.

Dr Mark McComiskey is a specialist gynaecologist and gynaecological surgeon who trained at the world-famous Christie Cancer Hospital in Manchester. His work has been published widely in peer reviewed journals in obstetrics and gynaecology and his work has been presented at international meetings throughout Europe and North America Dr McComiskey takes a holistic and caring approach to managing all general gynaecology conditions with the aim of maximising women’s quality of life.

Each month Dr McComiskey provides Local Women readers with healthcare advice, dispelling some of the many myths surrounding women’s health.

TREATING THRUSH Each month Dr Mark McComiskey MD MRCOG discusses gynaecological conditions and women’s health issues.

Dr Mark McComiskey is a specialist gynaecologist and gynaecological surgeon who trained at the world-famous Christie Cancer Hospital in Manchester. His work has been published widely in peer reviewed journals in obstetrics and gynaecology and his work has been presented at international meetings throughout Europe and North America.

WHAT WILL HAPPEN AT THE GP APPOINTMENT?

Dr McComiskey takes a holistic and caring approach to managing all general gynaecology conditions with the aim of maximising women’s quality of life.

HOW DO YOU TREAT RECURRING THRUSH?

You will be asked a series of questions about your medical health. Your GP will examine your vulval skin and your vagina.

A swab test may be taken to look for other infections and confirm thrush.

This month Dr McComiskey looks at the treatment of thrush.

WHAT IS THRUSH? Thrush is not classed as a sexually transmitted infection (STI), but it can be triggered by sex. It is caused by a fungus called candida that is normally harmless.

Thrush tends to grow in warm, moist conditions and develops if the balance of bacteria changes. This can happen if skin is irritated or damaged, if antibiotics are being taken, with poorly controlled diabetes, pregnancy or with a weakened immune system (for example because of HIV or chemotherapy.)

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF THRUSH? •

Thick, white vaginal discharge (often like cottage cheese)

•

Usually there is no odour

•

Vaginal itch or pain

•

May be no symptoms

KINGSBRIDGE PRIVATE HOSPITAL Tel: 028 9066 7878 www.kingsbridgeprivatehospital.com

WHAT OVER THE COUNTER TREATMENTS CAN BE PURCHASED? Antifungal medicine is available to buy from pharmacies if you’ve had thrush diagnosed in the past and you know the symptoms. This medicine can be a tablet to take orally, a tablet to insert into the vagina (pessary) or a cream to be applied onto the skin. Sexual partners will need treated if they are symptomatic.

Standard advice would be to not use antifungal medicine more than two times in six months without speaking to a pharmacist or GP.

WHEN SHOULD I CONTACT THE FAMILY DOCTOR? You should seek medical attention if the thrush keeps coming back or treatment has not worked. Also, if it occurs during pregnancy, or with a weakened immune system – for example, because of diabetes, HIV or chemotherapy.

You might need to take long term antifungal tablets for up to six months if you have recurrent thrush which you get it more than 4 times in a year.) This would need prescribing by a GP or a specialist.

HOW CAN I MAXIMISE MY VULVAL HEALTH? Use water and emollient instead of soap to wash the affected area. Dry the skin carefully after washing and wear cotton underwear.

Avoid intercourse until thrush has cleared up and avoid douches or deodorants on the vagina. Do not wear tight fitting underwear or tights

A NOTE OF CAUTION If you have sex during treatment, be aware that antifungal creams can damage condoms and diaphragms.

This means your contraception might not work.

Dr McComiskey can be contacted at

www.drmarkmccomiskey.com info@drmarkmccomiskey.com

HILLSBOROUGH PRIVATE CLINIC Tel: 028 9268 8899 www.hillsboroughprivateclinic.com

CHRONIC PELVIC PAIN AND SEXUAL DYSFUNCTION

At Health Hub Professionals NI you can discuss your intimate health and sexual issues with an expert in a private and non-judgemental environment.

It is estimated that chronic pelvic pain syndrome affects 15-20 per cent of women.

It is a debilitating condition that can disrupt work, physical activity, sexual relations, sleep, and general family life. It can have a massive impact on a woman’s mental and physical health. The pain experienced by women varies from person to person, ranging in severity, type, or longevity. It is usually felt in the area below the belly button – it can also spread to the buttocks, lower back, and thighs.

Chronic pelvic pain can occur due to lots of different conditions such as endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, and some intestinal disorders. There is, however, increasing evidence that pelvic floor muscle dysfunction is associated with chronic pelvic pain therefore pelvic floor rehabilitation is a part of the treatment.

vaginismus can include anxiety disorders, childbirth injuries, previous surgery and fear or negative feelings about sex (perhaps due to past sexual abuse, rape, or trauma).

We can work the pelvic floor muscles without realising, causing over activity of the muscle, increasing muscle tension, discomfort and preventing relaxation. This can then affect the function of your bladder, bowel, and vagina.

SO, WHAT ROLE DOES PHYSIO HAVE IN THE MANAGEMENT OF CHRONIC PELVIC PAIN AND SEXUAL DYSFUNCTION? •

Education of anatomy/pain/ sexual dysfunction

If the muscles are overly tense this can also cause issues with intercourse and any internal examination or procedure e.g., smears.

•

Vulvar skin care advice

•

Self-exploration/desensitisation with fingers/dilators – reducing fear and pain

Common bladder symptoms with chronic pelvic pain are; frequency, urgency, nocturia and incomplete emptying (women often have the sensation of having a UTI).

•

Pelvic floor muscle release/manual therapy/pelvic floor awareness – reducing tension and tone

•

Pelvic stretches

•

Breathing techniques

•

Relaxation/mindfulness

A common bowel symptom is constipation – the muscles simply can’t relax enough to empty the SEXUAL DYSFUNCTION bowel effectively.

One of the most taboo subjects in pelvic health is With bladder and bowel issues it is often sexual dysfunction - so many women are afraid to thought that doing pelvic floor exercises will mention these issues to a healthcare provider and help but, in some circumstances, they may not feel ashamed and embarrassed by them.

As well as physiotherapy patients can benefit from medication, CBT, and psychosexual counselling.

At Health Hub Professionals NI, you can expect to be able to share your story and discuss your issues in a be appropriate and could increase pain and The most common sexual dysfunctions are private and non-judgemental environment. As well as symptoms. It is often a combination of lifestyle dyspareunia and vaginismus. my expertise in pelvic health I am currently studying changes, muscle release and relaxation, and Dyspareunia is recurrent vaginal pain during or with the Institute of Psychosexual Medicine so can stretching exercises that help to manage chronic immediately after intercourse. It can be either bring this element of therapy into treatment sessions. pelvic pain. superficial (felt at the entrance to the vagina) or The overall aim of treatment is to reduce symptoms, As well as bladder and bowel symptoms chronic deep (felt deeper in the pelvis). improve function and improve quality of life. There pelvic pain can also cause abdominal pain, Vaginismus occurs when the muscles in or around should be no shame or secrecy associated with genital pain, lower back pain, pain while sitting the vagina go into spasm making sexual intercourse these issues. So, come on ladies; speak up, reach painful or impossible. Factors contributing to out, seek help. or pain during or after sex.

1 Hyde Business Park, Pennyburn Industrial Estate, Derry, BT48 0LU T: 075 9324 0194

www.healthhubprofessionalsni.com Follow us on Facebook/@healthhubprofessionalsni

Local Women Magazine | 83

Spring Showcase is here!

It’s hard to believe that it’s May already, wasn’t it just Christmas last month?! We’re so happy to see the current lockdown restrictions easing and we’re cautiously optimistic that the end is now in sight… It’s brilliant to see so many local businesses opening their doors once again and life is beginning to have a little more normality. Now more than ever, it’s important to shop and support local.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank our amazing customers who continuously support us, it is greatly appreciated. Many of you will already know about our Showcase events which usually happen biannually as a token of our gratitude for your support. Last October, we hosted our Christmas Showcase with a twist.

Instead of the usual one-day event, this time it took place over the entire month, to allow for social distancing to help protect both our customers and staff. This format was a success and so our Spring Showcase will be held this way too.

The McCloys 2021 Spring into Summer Showcase will begin on 1st May and will run right through to 31st May. Once you get your hands on a showcase voucher, this will entitle you to one transaction with our special showcase discounts throughout the month of

May. You can cut out and use the as Tipperary Crystal and Pilgrim to voucher at the bottom of this page or name only a few. Additionally we pop in to store to collect one. offer a complimentary gift-wrapping service, both instore and online at With lots of gorgeous new stock www.mccloyskilrea.com. arriving daily and amazing offers across the store, you’re sure to On a final note, don’t forget to keep pick up a wee bargain! With social an eye out for all our latest news distancing and hygiene measures and arrivals over on our social media in place, we can’t wait to warmly pages and to find out more about our welcome you back to McCloys.

Spring 2021 Showcase. You can also Here at the Diamond in Kilrea, we have a treasure trove of products to suit all price ranges, just waiting to be discovered. Perfume, accessories, cosmetics and giftware, you name it, there’s something here for everyone. We’re also stockists of some of the hottest jewellery brands around, such as the Italian brands, Rebecca and Nomination as well

Spring Showcase Voucher 1 Maghera Street Kilrea | BT51 5QL

keep up to date through our mailing list. To subscribe you can head over to our website & sign up via the popup (or alternatively via linktree in our Instagram bio) & you’ll receive a welcome treat delivered straight to your email inbox right away.

We can’t wait to see you soon!

The McCloys Team

Spring Showcase Voucher From

Saturday 1st May 2021 - Monday 31st May 2021 This Voucher Entitles you to one transaction with Spring Showcase Discounts ONE VOUCHER PER CUSTOMER | REDEEMABLE IN STORE ONLY

Signed:

Spring Showcase Voucher.indd 1

Scan here to browse our website

19/04/2021 15:50

www.mccloyskilrea.com 84 | Local Women Magazine

Sparkle with Tipperary Crystal The dazzling Tipperary Crystal Range is available at McCloys in Kilrea with UK-wide delivery and a click and collect service.

Tipperary Crystal Range available at McCloys • Jewellery• Watches • Handbags & Purses • Eoin O’Connor Cow Collection • Birdy Collection • Homeware • Candles & Diffusers

Entire range available in store.

Jewellery and watches also available online

www.mccloyskilrea.com Local Women Magazine | 85

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Kellyʼs Patch Chardonnay 2013 is a wonderfully ripe and fruity Chardonnay, which has lots of peachy and melon aromas to the fore along with hints of citrus to keep it fresh.

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On the palate it is crisp and lively and has good length with a clean finish which means it matches really well with lots of foods like grilled chicken or fish, seafood or salads, you name it. Lightly chilled is best to allow all the aromas and flavours to shine.

Lesley xoxo

Lesley McGarrity Local Women Columnist

HAIR TODAY… GONE TOMORROW!

As the warmer weather approaches, your dog is getting ready for the heat by shedding its winter coat. Pet & Country has some solutions to keep your pet’s coat tidy.

As we approach summer and hope to see soaring temperatures, you may notice more hair around your home as your dog sheds. All dogs shed to some extent, with double-coated breeds like Labradors and Huskies shedding more noticeably than breeds like Poodles.

Shedding is natural and can’t be avoided but we have some tips to help minimise the hair shed, while keeping your dog’s coat healthy.

WHY DO DOGS SHED? Shedding is the process of removing dead and damaged hair which helps maintain the dog’s coat. Shedding will help your dog stay comfortable as temperatures increase and if dead hair is removed to avoid matting then it will keep their coat in good condition.

Hair goes through a cycle of growth and shedding.

This cycle is affected by factors such as breed, age, hormones, environmental factors, as well as the general health of the dog. These factors can also affect the length of the hair and the coat texture.

The lifespan of the hair shaft for breeds like Poodles and Yorkshire Terriers is longer and so these dogs shed very little in comparison to the short life span of dogs like Huskies who shed more and who also have an abundant undercoat. The undercoat is made up of soft secondary hairs growing underneath and around the primary hair.

Spring and Autumn are top shedding seasons. In Spring dogs lose their heavy winter coats in exchange for a lighter summer coat and then come Autumn they shed their lighter coat and grow a more substantial, thicker, and warmer coat to see them through the winter. However, you may be experiencing year-round shedding from your pooch and this is because more pets are now kept indoors and are less affected by these seasonal temperature changes.

If you have a puppy, you may notice a change in their coat after shedding. Puppies are born with soft fluffy

coats, but this is shed to make way for a thicker, stiffer adult coat (this is usually around 4 -6 months, but will vary with breed).

There may be other reasons for shedding such as skin problem, illness, or nutritional or vitamin deficiencies but if the amount of shedding seems abnormal to you we recommend that you contact your vet.

WHAT CAN I DO TO MINIMISE SHEDDING? Brush, Brush, Brush!

Brushing and combing regularly can help remove the dead hairs before they are shed and help prevent matts in your dog’s coat.

Brushing will also help evenly

distribute natural oils which keep the coat healthy.

Using the right tools is important.

Slicker brushes are a great tool for this. Brush in both directions and it will pull away the dead and downy undercoat. Do this until you notice you are pulling out less and less hair. For times when your dog is shedding

more, try a rake or de-shedding tool. These are used in the direction of hair growth, then pull them up and away to remove the hair. You can also use a shedding tool with a blade. Stroke the blade gently from head to tail and loose hair will fall away. It’s important to comb out any matts and tangles before de-shedding – we have a selection of steel tooth combs that are perfect for this.

MAINTAIN A HEALTHY, BALANCED DIET Make sure your dog is having high-quality nutritional food and additional supplements if required. A poor diet can affect your dog’s coat resulting in increased hair loss and dandruff.

WASH THE HAIR AWAY Regular washing will loosen and help remove dead hair. Using an oatmeal shampoo can keep the coat healthy and strong which will reduce the amount of damaged hair that needs to be removed. A selection of great shed-control shampoos are also available.

STOP SCRATCHING Controlling allergies and fleas will stop dogs scratching and removing large amounts of dead hair. The Bye Bye Buzz Shampoo and spray will help repel insects.

The spray is handy to keep in the car or by the back door and has a specific blend of citronella, tea tree oil, lavender oil, and chrysanthemum oil which will actively repel insects. Spritz it on your dog’s coat before a walk and it is effective immediately. To avoid scratching due to allergies, consider using a hypoallergenic shampoo or a shampoo with soothing ingredients such as oatmeal, camomile, or aloe vera. If you are concerned about allergies, speak to your vet.

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Fabric World’s Paula Sweeney knows how to create stunning interiors with the new season’s collections available instore.

By Paula Sweeney at Fabric World, Maydown There are so many fabulous interior trends around at the moment that it’s often hard to make a choice.

However, the understated elegance of some of this season’s new collections makes choosing a simple decision.

Balancing subtle tones and interesting textures with gentle design makes for a winning combination. Creating grown up sophistication that you will want to surround yourself in.

Our homes are truly becoming our palaces with the abundance of fabrics designed with luxury in mind.

So why not add a touch of class to your scheme with some of my top picks this month?

Iliv have launched an amazing book of rich fabrics ranging from soft neutrals to bold blues and blushing pinks.

Charnwood is one of my favourite collections and we are stocking many options - and the price is fab too.

A calming colour palette of soft and chalky pastel tones.

A mix of organic designs from wild grasses to budding sprigs and leafy foliage.

90 | Local Women Magazine

Also, with a slightly more contemporary feel pt have launched nine designs in their Penthouse collection.

Simple stunning modern design that will add a little glamour to any scheme.

Taking inspiration from grand architecture, Penthouse brings a boutique feel into the home with its shimmering highlights and opulent jacquards. The collection fuses traditional damasks, contemporary geometrics and classic metallics, all completed with a stunning burn-out sheer.

Mix and match fabrics and use larger prints to make a dynamic statement with your dining chairs.

A Simply stunning trend.

Add a little Frenchic to panelling to create an elegant dining or entrance space. The colour choices are beyond good.

Freshening up your upholstery is an amazing way to update furniture and create a little luxury. This month I’m loving all the fab new upholstered headboards with their delightful deco feel.

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Local Women Magazine | 91

TAKE A MOMENT TO PAUSE WITH WELLNESS BY LV Creating beautiful home fragrances and hand poured candles is a dream job for beauty lover Laura Vance who loves to provide her clients with a sense of calm and wellbeing.

Beauty is a passion for Laura Vance.

With over 20 years in the beauty industry, Laura knows the importance of self-care.

So, when she was looking for a way to move her business forward, creating her own brand of candles and scents was a natural progression for her.

Laura, 38, knows how creating the perfect ambiance is of paramount importance when it comes to relaxation.

She loved how her beauty clients visibly relaxed when they walked into her treatment rooms and said they adored the smell of the candles she always burned.

As a self-confessed candle lover, Laura experimented with all kinds of brands over the years and become somewhat of an expert on her favourite scents. But she always felt she couldn’t quite get the perfect candle.

So, when it came to expanding her beauty business, she decided that rather than learn a new treatment, she would start her own product range and focus on making candles and home fragrances.

And so, the idea for Wellness by LV was born – however the pandemic

TELL US HOW YOU CAME TO START YOUR BUSINESS?

hit and what had initial been an Over the years I had been adding new skills addition to Laura’s business suddenly as the beauty industry changes quite rapidly. become more important as salons I knew I wanted to learn something new closed for months.

Laura spent the first lockdown learning everything she could about candle making and researching scents and

that wasn’t just a new beauty treatment, but something that I could bring into my beauty business and really compliment it.

Then Covid hit! This created panic as I was

so worried about my business that I worked waxes. By October, Wellness by LV so hard to build. All of a sudden, I felt I was was up and running and her candles losing it. After the panic subsided, I realised have proved to be a huge hit with Covid had given me the nudge and time I those seeking a little calm within their needed to bring my idea to life. own homes.

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE CANDLES?

Here Laura tells Local Women how she As a self-confessed candle lover and a lover started her own business and why she’s of beautiful aromas during my treatments, never been happier.

92 | Local Women Magazine

candle making seemed like the perfect

WHAT DO YOU MOST LOVE ABOUT YOUR JOB?

addition. I just love how a client walks into my treatment room and takes a moment to enjoy the beautiful fragrances, immediately their eyes light up as they take in the beautiful aroma and their shoulders drop as it has such a calming effect on them. So, creating my own brand of candles was the perfect addition.

I love my job in beauty and I adore making beautiful home fragrances. I’m a very lucky lady to love what I do. I go to work every day being thankful for that. Overall, I love making people feel good. I love that feeling when a client leaves a treatment, happy, relaxed and calm. More importantly they are the most important person to me during that time and it’s my job to make them feel better. Creating a beautiful candle or home fragrance is just as important to bring that feeling of “a moment of pause” to their busy lives. It is a way of expanding my love of making people feel good.

HOW DID YOU GET STARTED? Over the summer I did some online classes in candle making. Choosing the wax along with trialling wicks etc. Choosing the fragrances was the hard part, as I loved them all. I never intended to have 10 fragrances, but I just couldn’t say no to any of them.

HOW LONG DID IT TAKE YOU FROM INITIAL IDEA TO ACTUALLY SELLING YOUR CANDLES?

Brand labels and safety labels are added to HOW DO YOU RELAX AND UNWIND? the candle and then they are placed in a I love to take my dogs for a walk through the forest, enjoy a coffee in calm peaceful The initial idea started in July and I was cabinet awaiting their new home. surroundings and this is where my ideas up and running by October. I lived and All my candles are hand poured and made come to life. breathed candles during this period, it was in small batches to ensure a high standard a busy time. I was even seeing candles in CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT YOUR of quality. my sleep. I also worked on the design of my PRODUCT RANGE? brand and how I wanted it to look. I knew WHAT INSPIRES THE SCENTS? I wanted my brand to be eco-friendly, so we I wanted Wellness by LV to be more than The fragrances were inspired by chatting offer a recycle your candle glass service and you another candle business, so the giftsets were to people and getting a feel of what they receive a small discount off your next candle. introduced which added that extra luxury love. I used the time in July when salons feel to the brand. I don’t know another opened again to secretly ask questions I have four different candle sizes and I have candle brand that offers the stunning giftsets to my clients and get an insight into their just brought out a new Ceramic Bespoke that I create. favourite fragrances. I found out what they Candle. I worked alongside a fantastic local enjoyed and how each fragrance made lady who helped create the timeless piece I CAN YOU TALK US THROUGH THE them feel. Some people loved the floral was going for.

PROCESS OF MAKING THE CANDLES?

It starts with washing my candle vessels first to get rid of any dust. I like to gently heat my glasses to prepare them for the wax being poured, this prevents sink holes appearing in the centre due to a change in temperature.

scents and popular perfume fragrances, I offer five giftsets that suit all budgets so the Fragrance Inspired Collection idea along with home fragrance sprays, luxury came from this. floral melts and recently have launched Then others loved the feeling of fresh reed diffusers and reed diffuser refills (we uplifting Lemongrass and the calming effect love to recycle) as the requests were of Lavender. So, this is where the Wellness building for this.

Then I move to attaching the wick WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE to the base of the glass ready for the Collection got its inspiration. pouring process.

I also wanted to have a collection TO A FEMALE ENTREPRENEUR STARTING OUT? I begin pouring the wax into a pouring jug and which changed with the seasons and add something new Don’t let fear hold you back. I think we all leave to cool to the correct temperature. where I could let that little self-doubt creep in from time While cooling I will then measure out the every few months. to time. If you believe in yourself and your correct fragrance oil. Once the desired DO YOU HAVE PLANS TO EXPAND creativity, then reach for the stars! temperature has been reached, I throughly YOUR RANGE? mix the wax and fragrance together and I’m currently working on a new collection pour into each candle glass. which I’m very excited about. It hopefully The candles are then left to set in the pouring area for a few hours. Once set I will move them into a dark cool area, and they will be left for the rest of the setting period. A candle needs to be left for up to 72 hours before lighting to ensure it has fully set.

will be launched in early May and I have created something amazing with another local business lady to celebrate the launch of the collection. When this is launched, I have a few ideas that I will be moving on with. Watch this space!

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Wellness by LV Local Women Magazine | 93

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MEET THE ARTIST WITH GALLERY 1608

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Christmas Gi�t Guide Christmas Gi�t Guide Christmas Gi�t Guide Taking her inspiration from the dark beauty of Irish nature, owner of ‘A Little Dark’ Louise Maguire talks about the joy she gets from the bespoke pieces of jewellery she handcrafts.

forArt ArtLovers Lovers for Give a loved one the gift of stunning local art Lover this year for Art

jewellery that’s a little edgy and is tactile to touch, reflecting what I find. In some respects, that decay or the natural progression of life is what I try to capture with the pieces I make. it's not a stretch to say that the things I come across, or forage for, live on beyond their life span, cast in silver to be loved and needed With Christmas just around the corner, this month by the wearer.

WHAT MAKES YOUR DAY WHEN YOU'RE MAKING OR SELLING YOUR WORK? What makes my day is when a customer buys a piece of jewellery and loves it so much that they put it on right away and walk off touching it and smiling. That’s a wonderful feeling. I have so many customers from who I thoroughly enjoy meeting over and over again, it has given me so much joy to see and catch up with them over the weeks and years and to hear and swap stories.

Give a loved one the gift of stunning local art this year withone Gallery 1608’s Christmas Gift Guide.

GiveLocal awith loved the gift of stunning local art this yea Gallery 1608’s Christmas Gift Guide.

Art…

ocal Art…

with Gallery 1608’s Christmas Gift Guide.

have pickedthe ourcorner, favourite th Christmaswejust around thisChristmas month gifts from WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN YOU ARE NOT CREATING? some of our top Irish artists.

This have picked our favourite Christmas gifts year, from why not When I'm not designing, making or thinking about avoid homogenous high street me of our top Irishthe artists.

This year, why not presents and buydesigning or making, I’m usually cooking which I something which iscorner, both unique and collectable for hristmas just around this and month oid the homogenous highthe street presents buy love - and I’m always planning when and what your loved ones. A bit of extra thought will provide a ve picked our favourite Christmas gifts from mething which is both unique and collectable for I’m going to eat next! I love sea swimming, on giving.

HOWgift DIDwhich YOUkeeps INTO DESIGNING AND walking and reading and I’m trying to learn the ur our loved ones.

A bit of GET extra thought will of top Irish artists.

This year, whyprovide not a MAKING JEWELLERY? piano. I love decorating our house, which is a Top of our list this year are limited edition prints by the which keeps on giving. homogenous high street presents and buy

al Art…

I've been and makingartists. jewellery for two of designing Ireland’s most well-known Belfast

fun, ongoing project, and I'm looking forward to

It's also incredibly special being asked to make a commission piece. The customer trusts me to create what they have visualised. It’s usually a previous piece of my jewellery and they would change some details of it and create a similar but personalised piece that will stay with them forever.

which is both unique and collectable nine years now as A Little Dark, but I’ve always getting back out to see live concerts when we phing of our list this year are limited edition prints byfor artist, Terry Bradley’s depiction of dock workers and been Ain the industry inartists. some shape or form.

I finally can again. o of Ireland’s most well-known Belfast oved ones. bit of extra thought will provide a and we burlesque type women are always popular Maguire, Robert Spotten, NUA, JG, NI Silver, Ghost, worked for 13 years in of a dock very busy retail jewellery ist, Terry Bradley’s depiction workers and WHAT'S NEXT ON THE RADAR FOR A LITTLE DARK? all of his most recent prints in stock.

Bonesetter and Spirit Jewellery. hich keeps have on giving. shop in Belfast and for four years in an amazing WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO OVER THE WHAT DOES A GREAT DAY CREATING rlesque type women are always popular and we Maguire, Robert Spotten, NUA, JG, NIOF Silver, Ghost, Keith Drury’s edition workprints is also by very antique shop inlimited Dublin.

These years were so our list this year are limited edition NEXT 12 MONTHS? LOOK LIKE FOR YOU? Local Ceramics… ve all of his most recent prints in stock.

Bonesetter and Spirit Jewellery. collectable and popular with our clients. His work is much fun, and I learnt a lot about jewellery and

Ireland’s most well-known artists. Belfast

I Ceramics absolutely work and gift myand favourite arelove also my a very popular again we

I can’t wait to get back to work at full

the limited business from these both quirky and contemporary, th Drury’s edition work is experiences. also verydepicting different speed again making stock and getting new kind of day is when I can Pieces work range with from no can accommodate all budgets.

Local Ceramics…

Terry Bradley’s depiction of dock workers and scenes seamlessly brought together in one piece. interruptions. I start each morning with a But I local really started intowork myisown when lectable and popular with ourcoming clients.

His commissions. I’m also looking forward to functional pottery to bespoke sculptural pieces.

Ceramics are Robert also a very popular gift and again we Ghost, The artwork has appeared ondiff television’s The and huge que type women are always popular and we Maguire, Spotten, NUA, JG, NI Silver, myand husband and our two girls lived in Fall San going back to jewellery classes to learn new breakfast before going for a walk on th quirky contemporary, depicting erent Represented are household can accommodate all budgets.

Piecesnames rangesuch fromas Sharon is even in the collection of Princess Prints from Francisco and LA for together 16 that time, the beach with Greg, my amazing husband ll of his most recent prints inyears. stock.

Bonesetter and Spirit Jewellery. al scenes seamlessly brought inDuring oneAnne. piece.

Ian Carty, Rory Shearer, Leona Devine and ways of stone setting. I studied gemmology functionalofReagan, pottery to bespoke sculptural pieces. both artists canjewellery be boughtmaking framed ornight unframed.

I went to various classes for years and I want to make more stone set 35 years.

Then I put the music on loud in e artwork has appeared on television’s The Fall and Patrick Colhoun.

Represented are household names such asthrough Sharon a list rury’s limited edition is also pieces and also, I’m really looking forward to and when we work returned to very Ireland, I went to my tiny 6x6 workroom and work even in the collection of Princess Anne. Prints from Reagan, Ian Carty, Rory Shearer, Leona Devine and meeting new customers.

Belfast Metropolitan College for three years of pieces I need to get made.

I love it when I able andcan popular withframed our clients.

His work is Local Books… th artists be bought or unframed.

Ceramics are also a very popular giftbyand again we manage to get everything done the end learning the practical skills. I then started selling Patrick Colhoun.

The gift of a book never fails and at Gallery 1608 we

Local Ceramics…

uirky and contemporary, depicting different of the day. my pieces in the fabulous St George's Market can accommodate alllargest budgets.

Pieces range from have perhaps the selection of Irish Art Books cenes and seamlessly in one piece. Local now mybrought work is together in The Ulster Museum, two IBooks… work on the orders I get from the functional pottery to bespoke sculptural pieces. under one roof in the whole of Northern Ireland. work galleries, has appeared on television’s Fall and a retail shop and aThe Tattoo Studio Thein gift ofMarket a book never fails and at Gallery 1608 we on household Sunday, each Monday Represented are names such asand Sharon as myAnne. website.

Tuesday and selection then on Thursdays in theGermany, collectionasofwell Princess Prints from have perhaps the Paintings… largest of Irish Art Booksand Irish Reagan, Ian Carty, Rory Shearer, Leona Devine and I work allofday on pieces stock WHERE YOU framed GET YOUR Finally, painters have been working under oneFridays roof in our the whole Northern Ireland.oftirelessly rtists can be DO bought or INSPIRATION? unframed.

Patrickfor the market I have my A lot of my work features skulls, claws or toColhoun. ensure we haveand new the worksshops available for the

Irish Paintings…

jewellery.

I love and the the noise, smells and dirt bones. I love the elegant detail of skeletons Christmas season range and quality of our of making jewellery.

I wear ear protectors and how it all fits whether it’s bird, animal or show is amazing.

Finally, ourcurrent painters have been working tirelessly when needed but I still love the different evenIfa leaf. I’m not your a lover pink jewellery is more idea of of anything to The gift ofhave a book fails at the Gallery 1608 we ensure we new works for Remember, wenever can offavailable erthe 10and months interest free hammer noises and sound of the saw or glittery.

I tend enjoy matte, a gift why not to support our local black, spikey Christmas season and the range and quality of our have perhaps the largest selection ofthe Irish Artof Books credit on all pieces over andend you can and polishing machines and£100 at and makers? heavily We detailed items so of my inspiration have a wide range current show isday amazing. take the workof away immediately. the I in have clean, shiny and oxidized under one roof the whole Northern Ireland. all comes from the dark beauty of Irish nature. jewellery available at many different ewellery is more your ideabeach of jewellery which great A greatwas way made to spreadintheacost of I walk a lot on the and in the forest Remember, and we can offer 10 months interest free price points, ranging from costume loving environment. gift whyI’m notalways supporttaking our local Christmas. photographs of the pieces I

Local Jewellery…

ocal Jewellery…

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EMMA’S MAKING MUSIC…EVEN IN LOCKDOWN From singing in her bedroom as a schoolgirl and posting videos on social media, Lurgan singer and songwriter Emma Horan has turned her passion for music into a successful career.

By Maibh Shiels Emma Horan has been performing since she was just six years old and now the 22-year-old from Lurgan has made music her career and is gaining acclaim worldwide for her talents.

A talented actress who starred alongside James Nesbitt in ITV drama The Secret, Emma is now focusing on her music career after initially finding success through YouTube and Facebook.

Emma has been posting covers of songs to her Facebook page since she was 14 years old, but she never dreamed that this would lead to her studying a Masters degree in Songwriting in London, releasing her own original singles, and reaching over a million streams on Spotify.

She shares her story of how she found success, the struggles she has faced, especially since lockdown started, and her future plans for singing and songwriting.

Emma tells of her small beginnings: “I started posting a lot of videos of covers and mash ups on Facebook, and that blew up when I was 14.

“The videos got attention from X Factor stars like Janet Devlin, Bars and Melody, and HRVY, so that’s how I grew online.”

The singer quickly started to put her own spin on the songs and was surprised by the response she got.

“Whenever I was around 16 or 17, I did a cover of ‘Little Lion Man’ by Mumford and Sons. I did my own version of it, and it got to number three on the iTunes Singer/Songwriter Charts.

“From that I wanted to take it more seriously,” says Emma who started to see music as a career choice for herself.

“My intention was never to go to university. All I wanted to do was music, so I didn’t do UCAS or any of that.”

That all changed when Emma went to London and visited Tileyard Music Studios, where she was offered the opportunity to study songwriting.

98 | Local Women Magazine

ƒ Emma Horan

“I met a lovely Irish guy called Jamie who worked there, and he offered for me to do the Masters course.

ƒ Singing for Harry and Meghan in 2018 at the Eikon Centre, Lisburn

“I said that I didn’t have an Undergrad and he told me if I proved all of my experience, I could do the Masters.

Emma says the course helped her as a songwriter: “I focused solely on songwriting skills and perfecting them.

“Having that break from releasing music to working on those skills was good, because whenever I started to release my songs, they got such a nice response. They got played on Cool FM and radio stations in the south.”

While she loved living in London, Emma chose to come home to continue her career in music: “I knew it was the right thing to do.

“Within three months of coming home I met Jonny Fitch, who is now my producer and songwriting partner. He is absolutely the best of the best in Northern Ireland. I’ve got a great team. Coming home from London was definitely the best thing.”

However, she still keeps ties with London, and she and Johnny held a Zoom collaboration class with London musicians recently.

London isn’t the only location they have linked with over Zoom, they have held similar songwriting sessions with Australia, which they want to keep up even when lockdown lifts.

She says that, in some ways, lockdown has brought about opportunities like this that wouldn’t have happened before.

ƒ Emma Horan

supportive of one another.

“We all just want everyone to do well, and everybody champions everybody. They’re all amazing.”

She wants to continue collaborating after restrictions relax. “After everything has settled and we’re all able to get back to real life I can’t wait to do in person sessions for songwriting.

I’m so excited for that.”

The young singer/songwriter has other plans for after the pandemic, too: “We’ll definitely be travelling. singles which she shared in lockdown that got When the restrictions lift, we’re ready to go.”

“We were meant to go to Amsterdam and her to one million Spotify streams.

Emma has found so much success since she record over there and write music with a guy There is more to look forward to as well: “I’m started out, but she seems to still love the type called Raz Nitzan, but Covid has stopped a lot releasing my next single in May, so I’m so of performing that she started with. of travelling. excited for that. I’m releasing all new music and “On social media I post a lot of covers still, and “We’re writing with Raz on Zoom, but hopefully working with other artists.” musical theatre will always have a place in my when everything opens, we’ll be going over to She says that herself and her producer have heart. I did musical theatre from when I was six Amsterdam.” set-ups at home which has meant that they can years old until I was 13 or 14.”

This is not the only opportunity that Emma keep making music even while the studio is shut.

Emma admits that she loves acting as well. “I’m lost due to lockdown, as she was one of three She talks of how her new music takes a turn with Rising Talent Agency and I’ve been acting singers selected by the Arts Council for Northern from some of her previous songs. all my life.”

Ireland to go to Nashville in 2020.

“Last year my music was very pop, and this She explains why her name may sound familiar The Arts Council select three singer/songwriters year’s stuff focuses heavily on vocals. Covid to us: “I was in The Secret with James Nesbitt a annually to be sent on this trip, which is made me focus on my skills.” couple years back which was such an amazing funded by Panarts Belfast Songwriters, but unfortunately for Emma, she was chosen for the Emma also shares that she has not been experience.” year that Coronavirus hit. working solo: “We were working over lockdown An actor as well as a singer and songwriter. It is with other female Irish and Northern Irish artists. no surprise that Emma has had so much success “It was two days before lockdown, and I was packing my suitcase when I got the email to say “So, we were working with Sarah McTernan, and will surely continue to climb in the charts.

However, the musician admits that it has brought about some setbacks for her as well.

it was cancelled. Sad was an understatement.

who did Eurovision for Ireland two years ago, To listen to Emma’s music, you can find her as and we were working with Gemma Bradley, Emma Horan Music on Spotify, iTunes, and all “I was meant to go last month because it didn’t who is now presenting on Radio 1. major music platforms. You can also find her on happen last year, but I couldn’t go again, so hopefully I can go next year. “ “It’s been nice to release new music, but I’m her Facebook page, Emma Horan Music, or on Instagram, @emmahoranmusic. loving collaborating at the minute.”

In spite of these struggles, Emma has not allowed lockdown to stop her. She has released Emma sings the praises of other Northern And don’t forget to stream her new single, ‘3 original songs already, and it was one of her Irish musicians and says that they are all so Words’, which is out on 7 May. Local Women Magazine | 99

TAKING OFF ON

TikTok spreads love, laughs, and life stories like no other social media platform. Local Women meets three local content creators who are making a name for themselves on the popular app by just being themselves.

By Maibh Shiels

MAMMY BANTER:

“I show real life, warts and all!”

Derry mum-of-two Serena Terry made millions of mums laugh through lockdown, as she shared the burdens and blessings of daily life.

The 35-year-old mum is better known by her username @mammybanter, and has over 440,000 followers on her TikTok account, as well as tens of thousands of followers on Instagram.

Drawing on her own experiences as a parent, Serena makes videos showing the realities of motherhood through honesty and humour, but she says she never expected such success.

She explains how she started: “My daughter was on TikTok for quite some time. She’s 12 and she was forever laughing and showing me videos.

“At the start of the first lockdown my husband and I downloaded it and we sat and had a bottle of wine and laughed the whole night.

“We continued browsing and just enjoying the craic and I thought, ‘I could do that!’ And I did.

And here we are.”

What started as Serena simply enjoying herself soon exploded, with her third video on the app reaching 10,000 views.

Her

most

recent

videos

frequently

reach

hundreds of thousands of views, with some even entering the millions. She has followers from America, Australia, and Canada, as well as from the UK and Ireland.

Serena says: “Not in a million years did I think I would get this response. I just thought this would be a hobby, something to keep me entertained and have fun with.”

She believes that it is her realistic representation of parenthood that makes her page popular. “I try to be as real as possible, to show real life with a comical twist, warts and all. It’s about being honest, and I think that’s what people resonate with.

“I think Covid has made people want to be able to relate to others’ experiences and know that they’re not alone in what they’re feeling or going through.”

Serena is honest about how the pandemic has made parenting harder. During lockdown she has been working for a software company as well as being a mum to a 12-year-old and 5-year-old.

“Home-schooling and having to work 9 to 5 has been one of the hardest things I’ve had to do in my life.

“I have missed shopping and meeting up with friends and getting out for a nice meal but the biggest challenge of the pandemic for me was home-schooling and trying to entertain the kids.

No one prepared us for that.”

“I think in Northern Ireland it’s definitely our sense of humour that appeals. I think it’s our attitude, too. We’re laid back, and we’re not really here to keep up appearances.

The TikTok creator also admits that it wasn’t always easy to stay creative during Covid.

“Motivation levels do dip. There are days where I won’t feel like making videos.

“It’s real-life experiences. It’s about thoughts and feelings that you might feel you couldn’t say out loud, things that happen day to day, things that you worry about, things that you find funny.”

“If you start putting yourself under pressure and focusing on the number of likes and views, I think the enjoyment will go. So, I try to keep this as fun for me as possible.

The mum also says she herself finds it helpful to see relatable and realistic content on TikTok, instead of so many other social media platforms that present a picture-perfect representation of life.

“There are times where you have a video go viral, and you feel like you have to live up to the expectations of it in the video that comes after that.

“You will see people on TikTok who all are going through the same challenges and the same trials. It makes you feel normal, to go on there and to see that other people have been through what you have.”

“You do have to try to step back and remind yourself this is supposed to be enjoyable.”

Serena talks freely about her challenges with creativity, even with her followers. “Not being motivated is a topic in itself that you can reach people about, especially people who are working from home.”

It is this kind of relatable content that has people returning to Serena’s page. As Serena herself says: “It does move away from that stereotypical representation of what women in their mid-30s 100 | Local Women Magazine

or mothers should be, and it is a quite honest representation of what we are.

“I think the pandemic made people a bit tired of the stereotypical influencer type content you usually see on Instagram.

“Having to view other people’s perfect lives, expensive purchases, flawless pictures and unblemished skin personally does nothing for me. Especially during a global pandemic.”

“Don’t get me wrong I love genuine product reviews and some celeb gossip, but 100% of that

EMMA KEARNEY:

“They love our accent on TikTok”

Emma Kearney is a 20-year-old salon owner from Newry. Her TikTok account is @emmakearney32 and has over 640,000 followers.

Initially, Emma posted videos with voiceovers, but soon saw that her own accent and laugh were attracting more attention.

fed through to you each day via social media is not good for your mental health.

“I need humour. I need real life and real experiences that I can relate to.”

Serena says she has met many new friends through TikTok which is an unexpected bonus.

“I’ve met so many amazing people around the world, and people I speak to daily now. A few I’m even planning to meet up with after restrictions are lifted.

“I would encourage everyone to try it out at least, with the warning that you’ll blink, and two hours will have gone past. But it’s enjoyable. No matter what age you are, try TikTok.”

“I started doing videos of myself, and me talking and laughing, and people seemed to really enjoy them, so I kept doing them, and it gradually blew up.”

Emma, who posts a mixture of funny videos and beautybased content, says she notices that many Northern Irish content creators are finding a following.

She puts this down to our accent, among other things. “It’s because of our humour. I think we come across as relatable people and people you could get along with easily.”

Emma says that she makes a point of supporting other creators from Northern Ireland on TikTok. “We all like each other’s videos and comment on them.

“I just do the videos for people, to keep them entertained but I do enjoy it too, and I’m grateful for all the opportunities I have.”

SOPHIE GREER:

brings a lot of people to her page, as a lot of her songs are parodies, funny songs about current events, or songs about her day.

“I love making people smile”

“I do have primarily followers from Northern Ireland. I think that is because we all have that similar sense of humour. We do have a natural banter. We look for ways to pick ourselves up, and we don’t like to be down for too long.

Another Northern Irish creator who was surprised by the success she has found is Sophie Grier.

“And we’re good at making fun of ourselves too.

I don’t take myself too seriously and I don’t think any Northern Irish TikTok-er really does.”

Sophie’s page @sophygrier, where she posts videos of her singing original songs, has over 240,000 followers.

Even though she doesn’t take herself too seriously, Sophie does seriously appreciate the support she has been shown.

Sophie, 23 from Whitehead, had no intention of becoming famous when she started posting.

“It was never meant to be a big thing. I never thought that I would have lots of followers.

It was just a way for me to have a laugh and create things.

“I started posting videos and some of them ended up with millions of views.”

For Sophie, making TikTok videos is a way of expressing her creativity since she was put on

“I’m very grateful that people enjoy watching me. furlough from her job last March.

The singer had been teaching through Uplift Performing Arts and was part of the Bjorn Identity Abba tribute band before the pandemic hit.

“I’ve always loved the arts. It’s my career. Covid hit and that got turned upside down.

“I don’t know what in particular I have done to gain a following but I’m glad that other people get enjoyment from it.

“I’m enjoying it and other people are enjoying it with me.

As long as it makes other people smile and I still get fulfilment from it I’ll keep doing it.”

“Having TikTok has really been that creative outlet for me. I felt like I wanted to make things and connect with people, and I was bored.”

“I get a lot of comments saying, ‘This made me smile,’ and that’s the point of it.

“If you can make someone smile that’s the best.

Bringing a smile to people’s faces is what every performer wants to do.”

Sophie also agrees that her humour is what Local Women Magazine | 101

CITY OF DERRY AIRPORT EXTENDS COMPLIMENTARY PARKING GESTURE FOR HEALTHCARE WORKERS TO THE END OF THIS YEAR City of Derry Airport is extending its offer for free airport parking to the end of this year for all healthcare employees. It initially introduced a year of free parking for the healthcare community on the 21st April 2020. It extends the duration of this offer to the end of December 2021 as a thank you to healthcare workers who are still amidst the Covid-19 pandemic.

This offer is for all NHS and HSE staff across the caring community. To avail of this offer, healthcare employees should take a parking present the parking ticket to the Customer ticket when they enter the airport car park, Services Team to get it validated and use this go to the Customer Services desk in the main ticket at the exit barriers to leave the airport. terminal building, and show NHS or HSE For more information visit: staff identification and the parking ticket to the Customer Services team. On return to CODA, www.cityofderryairport.com

102 | Local Women Magazine

This summer, City of Derry Airport will have flights to Glasgow, Liverpool and London with Loganair. From £44.99, fly with Loganair to any of these destinations – included in your fare is 15kg hold luggage, 6k hand baggage and complimentary onboard refreshments, to book visit:

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cityofderryairport.com Local Women Magazine | 103

Out of the darkness…

Trish Kennedy Holland set up luxury home fragrance business Dandelion & Wishes during the first lockdown to bring a little light and love to everyone living through the pandemic.

F

or Trish Kennedy Holland, it was the darkest of moments at the start of the pandemic that sparked a business opportunity with real heart and meaning.

As we all struggled with the first lockdown, Trish, 31, who was pregnant with her now 11-month son Gabriel, along with husband Aaron, and daughter Georgia, 9, started an evening ritual that gave them a sense of peace in confusing times.

Trish explains: “While on maternity leave with my second child, just as lockdown hit, I was struggling with responsibility and severe anxiety at the situation, I turned to fragrances and a little simple family ritual at night to bring us through it.

“We lit a candle or diffused an oil blend around 7pm every night and wished for better days ahead whilst expressing gratitude for what we had in our own safe haven.

“It became a very important part of our day to assist with our transition from daytime lockdown to night-time lockdown. It was a monumental part of our day during the pandemic, and it became a must-do every night.

104 | Local Women Magazine

“As a long-term lover of botanicals, candles and interiors, I received such peace from creating this little corner of calm at night, and it gave us all such shared joy. I decided to see whether my friends and wider family would be interested in the concept.”

And so Dandelion & Wishes was born. The unusual name came from her daughter Georgia who one night blew out the candle and Trish told her to ‘make a wish’ as though it were a birthday candle.

Dandelion represents the grounding botanical nature of the ingredients – so the name reflects wishing on a dandelion for better times ahead.

Trish, who is originally from West Belfast and is now living in Dunmurry, used the first lockdown as a time to research and blend her own fragrances to diffuse.

With a newborn baby it was very hard work, but Trish says she loved every minute of it and enjoyed taking control of her career path.

She spent weeks of trial and error to get the right fragrances and she narrowed down a number of blends that she really loved.

There is a story behind each one and each has a theme and concept behind the fragrance.

Even now she spends every Sunday blending and trialling new blends, so that there are always new ones to launch.

Trish blends in very small batches, only ever making up to 20 items at a time per fragrance blend. She then allows them to mix together for at least 24 hours before bottling, labelling and boxing to preserve and enhance freshness and longevity of the scents.

Quickly she discovered that the oil blends she had carefully curated resonated with others and she watched in delight as her business took off.

She was delighted with the response she received as she had always dreamed of owning her own business.

Even with the difficulties presented by both Covid-19 and Brexit, Trish’s fragrances became very popular, and orders began to flood in.

Customers felt the same way as Trish had at the start of the pandemic and using the oils gave them comfort as they indulged in a little self-care.

The simple ritual of relaxing and enjoying the scents have made a difficult time just that little bit easier.

Trish explains: “It warms my heart every time I receive a repeat order because it’s never just another bottle, it always comes with a message of thanks, at how the blends I’ve chosen and created have passed my peace and joy to the customer and helped their own lockdown situation. Or how the ceramic diffuser designed and created by me, gives another customer a ‘spa like feeling’ after their long day running a pharmacy during a pandemic.

“It’s been a comfort in this darkness, especially now, when we are on the cusp of being free of the pandemic, to reflect and start to grieve for the time we have lost with loved ones. I lost my mum in 2018 and it has hugely affected me, I feel it every day and wish that I could have her back.

My love for her and the love for my whole family goes into every bottle. She’d be just buzzing at the whole thing.

“I have had my fair share of grief, so I know

exactly what this year has presented to so many.

“We had our second child, Gabriel, whom our ceramic diffuser is named after, last April following a very turbulent time getting him here. So, I was likely one of the first women in the UK who had a baby in lockdown. A rainbow baby and a baby who was so longed for – and he came right in the thick of a lockdown and pandemic. It’s been terrifically hard at times and also the most beautiful year of our lives in our precious little bubble of four.

“The business has 100% given me the focus and direction I needed during some of the darker days and some days were very lonely and long – we’ve been unable to avail of the support we normally would have had due to the pandemic... So it’s been very tough and we have been isolated but are fortunate for our health and each other.

“We as humans lost so much in 2020 and we now know the route forward, what we missed most, and what we have to keep wishing for tomorrow.

“Make every second worthwhile. Celebrate the little luxuries in every day. Eat the truffles, drink the good wine - and treat yourself to another experience with Dandelion & Wishes.

E: hello@dandelionandwishes.com www.dandelionandwishes.com dandelionandwishesni @dandelionandwishesni

THE STORIES BEHIND THE SCENTS ‘Her Praise’ is a luxurious blend of sandalwood, bergamot and vanilla – truly luxurious, feminine and comforting. It was blended in honour of my late mum who we lost in 2018. A dedication to all great women if you will. The perfect backdrop to all women as I suppose a nod to femininity and feminism in general. 10% of all sales of this particular blend go to Women’s Aid charity and it’s our absolute best seller.

‘November’ was designed with my firstborn in mind and the shroud of all things autumnal that are reminiscent of those times. Suitable for all year round with a gorgeous fresh twist.

‘The Dawn’ was about awakening and launched in early 2021 as a nod to the beginning of a new chapter and a brand-new year having survived the craziness of 2020.

‘Mother’s Song’ – sweet like a lullaby, very comforting but almost childlike and fresh.

‘Vague Memories’– a dedication to the beauty of fragrance and scent in general.

Whimsical and classical scent notes of lavender and vanilla. The concept that fragrance always bring you back to a time, place or thing and it is dedicated to that.

Local Women Magazine | 105

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A BREAKTHROUGH FOR WOMEN Elite Aesthetic Clinic is the first in Northern Ireland to introduce the BTL Emsella Chair. Say ‘no’ to inconvenience and say ‘no’ to intimate discomfort!

As a skilled nurse, Elite’s Clinical Director Emma Heaney has vast experience in gynaecology, midwifery and women’s health issues from menarche to menopause and beyond.

So, she is excited to introduce Northern Ireland to this breakthrough treatment for incontinence and confidence. Its unique technology revolutionises women’s intimate health and wellness by providing those suffering from incontinence and or sexual discomfort with a completely non-invasive treatment.

Emma knows that your pelvic floor matters whatever age you are and she is excited to be working with BTL Ireland. This amazing and innovative company have appointed Emma as Ireland’s lead nurse and clinical trainer in vaginal rejuvenation. There are such exciting and empowering times ahead for the ladies of Ireland.

As the saying goes: “Women are like fine wine, they only get better with age.” Embrace your maturity and enjoy intimate moments with a strong pelvic floor, incontinence free.

The BTL Emsella Chair was chosen as the ‘Most Innovative Technology’ at the 3rd World Congress of the European Society of Aesthetic Gynecology and ‘The Best intimate Health Treatment 2021’ is now available at our clinic!

Schedule your consultation appointment with Elite Aesthetic Clinic for this breakthrough treatment of incontinence and intimate health and wellbeing.

ARE YOU THE RIGHT CANDIDATE FOR BTL EMSELLA?

Elite accepts referrals from medical professionals and physiotherapist.

Are you one of them? Take a quick test!

BTL EMSELLA CHAIR is a great option for women of any age who desire a noninvasive solution for urinary incontinence and improvement in their quality of life. Due to factors such as the body’s normal aging, childbirth or menopause, the pelvic floor muscles decondition and insufficiently support the pelvic organs. These factors directly correlate with urinary incontinence.

110 | Local Women Magazine

According to NAFC over 200 million people worldwide are affected by incontinence.

1.

Do you leak urine when you cough, sneeze or engage in sports activities?

2.

Do you need to go to the bathroom often?

3.

Have you refrained from intimate life in the last few months out of fear of insecurity?

4.

Are you a mum that needs care after delivery

5.

Are you an active woman but suffering from urinary incontinence?

6.

Are you a woman with decreased intimate satisfaction?

If you answered “yes”, you are probably suffering from urinary incontinence. BTL EMSELLA is the first device of its kind and is FDAcleared for treating urinary incontinence in women.

EXCLUSIVE TO ELITE AESTHETIC TREATMENT CLINIC BEFORE EMSELLA

AFTER EMSELLA

you perform when doing a Kegel exercise.

What makes this treatment effective is the indepth penetration and stimulation of the entire pelvic floor area. A single session brings you thousands of intense contractions that you would not be able to do on your own. These contractions are very helpful when it comes to muscle strengthening and re-education.

Scientific research shows that 95% of treated patients have reported significant improvement in their quality of life.

While it is true that women with two or more children have a statistically significant possibility of having incontinence, it doesn’t mean women who haven’t given birth vaginally won’t develop incontinence. Don’t be a statistic.

WHAT TO EXPECT DURING THE TREATMENT?

You will be completely clothed yet, we recommended loose fitted clothing to help achieve best positioning during treatment. When the treatment starts you will feel slight tingling and It is mind blowing! Nearly 50% of women over vibrations in your pelvic floor muscles that will then 50 have incontinence, but only 38% of those turn into full contractions. This will be completely afflicted perform Kegel exercises. So, why suffer comfortable and tolerable. The treatment is a in silence?

28-minute session you can relax, read a magazine, or watch television. You will be able to return to normal activities after the treatment.

BUT DON’T JUST TAKE OUR WORD FOR IT HERE ARE SOME PATIENT TESTIMONIALS: “I sneeze, I skip, I run, I can just do all kinds of exercise and competitions and I can now do them with a lot more confidence than I could before. It’s freeing, very freeing, to be able to just do what you want to do again.”

“What it does is it kind of take the place of doing Kegels, for which a lot of people don’t have the time or the energy. It’s just weird and it’s very uncomfortable to try to do them - but the chair does it for you and it works miracles. it’s wonderful!”

“This treatment isn’t just for the ladies - it will also help gentlemen get the blood flowing!”

HOW MANY TREATMENTS ARE REQUIRED? Every patient is different, and it will depend on numerous factors that will be discussed at your consultation , we do recommend a programme of 6 treatment over a 3 week time frame.

IS IT PAINFUL? That is the best thing about EMSELLA. Patients say it is completely painless, the procedure feels like an intense pelvic floor workout. You can sit and relax during the treatment.

HOW DOES EMSELLA CHAIR WORK?

BTL EMSELLA IS NOT FOR YOU IF YOU HAVE

• EMSELLA is the HIFEM® procedure, that utilises • electromagnetic energy, at a high frequency, to cause pelvic floor muscle stimulation completely • non-invasively. Similar to the contractions •

TM

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Local Women Magazine | 111

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Don’t tolerate incontinence

TM

A healthy pelvic floor is the secret weapon that can improve a surprising number of things in your life. Emma Heaney from Elite Aesthetic Clinic explores this taboo subject and reveals a breakthrough treatment for incontinence and intimate health.

AESTHETIC TREATMENT CLINIC

ABNORMAL BLADDER AND BLADDER HABITS •

Going “Just in Case”

•

Voiding in a semi-squat position

•

Straining when voiding

•

Not voiding for >4 hours at a time

•

Not drinking 32-64 oz of water per day

•

Practicing Kegels when voiding

Physiological changes can contribute to the development of urinary incontinence; changes such as vaginal delivery, menopause, and aging can decondition pelvic floor muscles. The pelvic floor is a network of muscles which form a sling-like support for the lower pelvic organs.

WHEN THE TREATMENT STARTS YOU WILL FEEL SLIGHT

In order to improve symptoms, it is important in some cases to strengthen these muscles.

Possible ways to improve your condition may include lifestyle changes and Kegel exercises.

By Emma Heaney, Elite Aesthetic Clinic RN RM PHNS INP Urinary incontinence is defined as the involuntary leakage of urine. This might be a result of weak pelvic floor muscles since pelvic floor muscles play an important role in supporting pelvic organs and controlling continence.

There are different types of urinary incontinence: •

Stress incontinence: is when there is exerted pressure on the bladder causing leakage. This can be caused by coughing, laughing, sneezing, or exercising.

•

Urge: is the sudden, intense urge to urinate frequently.

•

Mixed incontinence: is a combination of both stress and urge incontinence.

•

Overflow incontinence. You experience frequent or constant dribbling of urine due to a bladder that doesn’t empty completely.

•

Functional incontinence. A physical or mental impairment keeps you from making it to the toilet in time.

Incontinence affects women of all ages, and up to 40% of women over age 30. Men’s prevalence of incontinence is much lower than in women, about 3% to 11% overall, with urge incontinence accounting for 40% to 80% of all male patients.

It’s alarming that people endure this treatable issue for two to three years before seeking help , incontinence is not normal and should not be an acceptable or expected condition .

If you’re like most women, you probably think of Kegel exercises as something you should be doing, but realistically never will. Are you really supposed to spend minutes a day squeezing and releasing, hoping it’s benefiting you in some intangible way you’re not quite sure about? Unless you’ve given birth and your midwife or Health Visitor told you to do it, it all feels vague, boring, and not a priority.

Please allow me to change your mind. As it turns out, a healthy pelvic floor (a.k.a. the layer of muscles, nerves, and connective tissues that supports your abdominal organs) is kind of a secret weapon that can improve a surprising number of things in your life, not just improving your incontinence. A toned pelvic floor makes penetrative sex even more amazing .

I would like to introduce you to a device I’ve been researching - the FDA approved EMSELLA chair - the treatments strengthen the entire pelvic floor and increase tone to provide support to pelvic organs and reduce incontinence.

EMSELLA is the HIFEM® procedure, that utilizes electromagnetic energy, at a high frequency, to cause pelvic floor muscle stimulation completely noninvasively. Similar to the contractions you perform when doing a Kegel exercise. What makes this treatment effective is the in-depth penetration and stimulation of the entire pelvic floor area. A single session brings you thousands of intense contractions that you would not be able to do on your own. These contractions are very helpful when it comes to muscle strengthening and re-education.

tingling and vibrations in your pelvic floor muscles that will then turn into full contractions. This will be completely comfortable and tolerable.

HOW MANY TREATMENTS DO YOU REQUIRE? We usually recommend six treatments over a three-week time frame, however this may vary depending on your degree of atrophy.

HOW LONG IS A TREATMENT? It’s a 30 -minute session to relax, read a magazine, or watch television.

You will be able to return to normal activities after the treatment.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS •

Improve bladder control prevent prolapse and laughter leaks.

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Revitalise your sex life by regaining tightness and intensity orgasms .

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Enable fast recovery for childbirth and pelvic floor training

HOW MANY KEGELS WILL I ACHIEVE PER SESSION? Around 11,000 Kegels are performed during your session is equivalent to doing 70 hours of Kegels. Like any workout you do, muscle recovery time is important. We recommend 2-3 days between sessions.

WHAT WILL THE TREATMENT FEEL LIKE? During the treatment you feel intense, but comfortable, muscle contractions.

WHEN WILL I FEEL AN IMPROVEMENT? Some say they noticed an improvement after their 2nd and 3rd treatment , clinical studies state that 100% of participants noted an improvement at 3 months.

Remember this treatment is suitable for both male and female patient . We accept referrals from medical professionals, physiotherapists and self-referrals.

WHAT TO EXPECT DURING THE TREATMENT? You will be completely clothed however we recommended loosely fitted clothing.

If you would like to book a consultation for this revolutionary treatment, please contact the clinic on 07712332154 or eliteaestheticclinic@gmail.com.

NORMAL BLADDER AND BLADDER HABITS 1st urge to void when it’s ½ full

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Voiding = the bladder contracts and the pelvic floor relaxes

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Each void should be 8 seconds or longer

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Void 5-7 times per day

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Void no more than every 3-4 hours

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No voiding at night unless >65

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No “Just-In-Case-ing”

BEFORE EMSELLA

AFTER EMSELLA

winner Business of the Year

Elite Aesthetic Clinic, Glenaden Business Complex, Altnagelvin Business Park, Trench Road, Derry-Londonderry, M: 07712332154 T: 02871349337 W: www.eliteaestheticclinic.co.uk E: eliteaestheticclinic@ gmail.com

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M: 07712 332 154 T: 02871 349 337 W: www.eliteaestheticclinic.co.uk E: eliteaestheticclinic@ gmail.com

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122 | Local Women Magazine

LW WEDDINGS

Natalie

Craig

BRIDE: Natalie McFarland Newbuildings Londonderry GROOM: Craig Garnett Manchester BRIDE’S PARENTS: Kenny and Andrena McFarland Newbuildings GROOM’S PARENTS: Sue Garnett Manchester BRIDESMAIDS: Amy McFarland (sister) Kirsty Burke (sister) Laura Warnock (friend) FLOWER GIRLS: Sophia and Abigail Burke and Charlotte Boyd BEST MAN: Mark Garnett (brother) GROOMSMEN: George White and Dale Baker (friends) PAGE BOYS: Jake Garnett (son) Oliver Boyd (nephew) WEDDING DATE: 03/10/2020 VENUE: Bishops Gate hotel PHOTOGRAPHER: James Aiken Photography DRESS: Calla Blanche Ultimate Dresses Dungiven RINGS AND JEWELLERY: Sproules Jewellers FLOWERS: John Paul florist SUITS: Tomorrow’s Londonderry

Our lockdown story: Craig and I planned to get married on the 17/04/2020 but with covid and everything closed we postpone to October.

We went for a pinks and neutral colours as they suited any time of the year.

The week of our wedding we had a lot of stressing but it was all worth it Our wedding day was so amazing even tho we had no dancing we done a mr and Mrs quiz Which everyone loved.

We could not fault the cars the flowers bishops gate the service was unreal And food best venue for a Weddings.

We where surrounded by our family and friends that could come and we said that we would have a party again when it’s safe to do so.

Local Women Magazine | 123

124 | Local Women Magazine

LW WEDDINGS

Catherine Chris BRIDE: Catherine Fitzsimons from Saul, Downpatrick GROOM: Chris Wright from Bedford, England BRIDE’S PARENTS: Charlie and Una Fitzsimons, Saul, Downpatrick GROOM’S PARENTS: Neil Wright and Sue Wright, Bedford, England WEDDING DATE: 23rd October, 2020 CEREMONY: St Philip and St James, Bedford RECEPTION: The Embankment, Bedford BRIDESMAIDS: Ellen Fitzsimons BEST MAN: Dave Wright PHOTOGRAPHER: Zoe Wright DRESS: A dress the bride owned

Our lockdown story: We were due to get married on the August 1, 2020 at Saul Chapel and The Mill in Downpatrick, Co Down. Catherine is a children’s nurse at her local hospital and Chris is an essential worker. Due to Covid-19 the date was changed to October 23, 2020 and relocated to Bedford England. 13 guests attended the wedding, and it was a fantastic day. The plans are to have a wedding party in Downpatrick with family and friends in the future.

Local Women Magazine | 125

Our lockdown story: Two days before our wedding, new lockdown regulations were announced for the second wave of the virus. This meant we were no longer able to have a reception, hairdressers were closed and there were more restrictions and reductions to our already reduced numbers were made once again. Despite all this, we still had the best day and are so thankful that we were able to get married. We also really enjoyed our honeymoon in the Costa del Portrush which also had to be changed from Vietnam.

126 | Local Women Magazine

LW WEDDINGS

Kirsty Matthew BRIDE: Kirsty Kelso from Curran, Magherafelt.

GROOM: Matthew Gault from Bangor BRIDE’S PARENTS: Karl and Ann Kelso, Curran, Magherafelt.

GROOM’S PARENTS: John & Ruth Gault, Bangor WEDDING DATE: 17/10/20 CEREMONY: Willowfield Parish Church in East Belfast RECEPTION: Due to lockdown we were unable to have our reception.

BRIDESMAIDS: Amy Kelso, Rebecca Ambrose, Susan McFarland & Becs Barr.

BEST MAN: Matthew Craig GROOMSMEN: Kyle Flanigan, Tom McCormick and Craig McAuley PHOTOGRAPHER: Simon Alleyne (Living Witness Weddings) HAIR: We did our own hair as hairdressers where closed.

MAKEUP: Helen McClurg DRESS: Creative Bridal Cookstown FLOWERS: Flowers by Mee (Gill Tate)

Local Women Magazine | 127

128 | Local Women Magazine

LW WEDDINGS

Leanne James BRIDE: Leanne Davison from Kilrea.

GROOM: James Savage from Coleraine.

BRIDE’S PARENTS: Evan and Anne Davison.

GROOM’S PARENTS: James and Ruth Savage.

WEDDING DATE: Friday 23rd October 2020.

LOCATION: St Tida’s Church of Ireland Parish of Ballyscullion, Bellaghy.

MINSTER: Reverend Brian Hassan BRIDESMAIDS: Jacqueline Overend and Judith Davison.

BEST MAN: Neil Fentie.

GROOMSMEN: David McNaughton, Steven Savage and Scott McKinney.

FLOWER GIRL: Kimberly Davison.

PHOTOGRAPHER: David Scott.

VIDEOGRAPHER: Joe Dalrymple.

CAKE: Alison Galligan.

FLOWERS: Flowerfairy Designs

Our lockdown story: Covid 19 changed the way we would live our lives in 2020, therefore we knew that the wedding day we had planned would have to be adapted in some ways.

Invites were sent out in September as our reception was still able to proceed at this stage following a risk assessment at the venue, however our smaller church meant that not every guest could attend the ceremony beforehand. On Wednesday 14th October the government announced a ‘circuit breaker’, meaning that our reception was cancelled and the numbers at church were once again reduced.

We had always wanted to get married on our original date if possible and as our church service was still allowed to go ahead, we decided to get married, nine days later!

Friday 23rd October was an intimate occasion and celebration. Claire Savage read a poem that she had written for us and Ryan Sinclair sang from the gallery.

We were blessed with glorious blue skies that followed us from the church to our photo venues at Maghera Walled Gardens, Portstewart’s ‘old fisherman’s cottage’ and the White Rocks beach at Portrush.

After all the chaos that had been thrown at us, we wouldn’t have changed our special day, which ended with a perfect open air first dance under the stars.

Local Women Magazine | 129

130 | Local Women Magazine

Our lockdown story: Aaron and I had planned to get married on August 15, 2020 but due to Covid we moved our wedding to November 5, 2020.

Unfortunately, three weeks before our wedding another lockdown was announced, and only 25 guests were permitted and no reception. We decided to go ahead with our wedding, and we are ultimately thrilled that we did.

The style was classic black and white with a hint of colour from the flowers. We had originally planned a summer wedding and I had always wanted sunflowers as they would complement the black dresses and tuxes. Our florist Budding Designs was so creative and able to accommodate the sunflower idea with November autumn vibes. Due to the seasonal change, I added shrugs for the bridesmaids and flower girls and I got a feather bolero to wear when we were outside. The classic black and white theme allowed us to transition styling between the seasons.

Before the service, the boys went to get some iconic pictures at the wonderful Harland & Wolff cranes which was a fun addition to our day. After the service we went to the picturesque Antrim Castle Gardens to get photos taken. The weather was beautiful, and our photographer captured some amazing autumnal snaps.

We had some food at home and a few fireworks.

Celebrating together with our close families was the most important and enjoyable thing.

Unfortunately, I lost my father exactly five weeks after our wedding. It made our day even more special to know he walked me up the aisle and gave me away to my husband.

LW WEDDINGS

Mary

Aaron

BRIDE: Mary Devlin from Toomebridge, Co Antrim GROOM: Aaron Flaherty from Belfast BRIDE’S PARENTS: Sean and Finola Devlin, Toomebridge Co Antrim GROOM’S MOTHER: Ellen Flaherty, Antrim WEDDING DATE: 5/11/2020 CEREMONY: Our Lady of Lourdes Chapel, Moneyglass, Co Antrim Reception: None due to Covid restrictions BRIDESMAIDS: Joanne Loughlin (sister) and Sinead Mulholland (cousin) FLOWERGIRLS: Emily and Lucy Loughlin BEST MAN: Alan McVeigh GROOMSMEN: Bill Flaherty, Ian Moore and James Martin PHOTOGRAPHER: Sam Wolsey DRESS: Stella York from Marie Me Bridal, Randalstown FLOWERS: Budding Designs, Randalstown VIDEO: Broductions

The entire day was so relaxed and we both agreed if we were to do it again, we would not change one thing.

Local Women Magazine | 131

132 | Local Women Magazine

LW WEDDINGS

Roisin Padraig BRIDE: Roisin Grant from Cabra, Co Down GROOM: Padraig McManus from Ballygalget, Co Down BRIDE’S PARENTS: Brendan and Mary Grant, Cabra Co Down GROOM’S PARENTS: Paud and Ursula McManus, Portaferry WEDDING DATE: 8th April, 2021 CEREMONY: St Mary’s, Cabra RECEPTION: None due to Covid restrictions BRIDESMAIDS: Clare Grant, Fionnuala Grant, Ciara Grant and Shannen McCusker BEST MAN: Gavin Burns GROOMSMEN: John McManus, Paul McManus and Patrick Grant PHOTOGRAPHER: Paul Moane DRESS: Castle Bridal Castlewellan FLOWERS: The Flowerbarrow, Newry

Our lockdown story: We were due to get married on May 22, 2020, however due to the first lockdown, the wedding was postponed. We set our new date for April 8, 2021. We knew we wanted to go ahead no matter what restrictions were in place. We had a small wedding of 25 and it was the most magical day.

It was very relaxed and was everything we could ever have imagined. It was a perfect day.

Local Women Magazine | 133