Editor’s Note
FIt’s February with the promise of longer days and Spring around the corner. Finally. This month, though sees Pancake day of course, Chinese New Year and the worst event of the year; Valentine’s Day. I hate it but only because my heart is made of stone. The last time I celebrated Valentines day I was 21. Yes really. Romance has evaded my life and this day is a reminder of it.
But in the spirit of loving life, this magazine is overflowing with love and if you like wine, you’ll adore our feature on Valentine’s wine cocktails.
I do have Andreas the Dating Coach talking about toxic relationships and I feature the tell tale signs of cheating. Let’s face it, life isn’t a box of chocolates.
Moving swiftly on to more positive thoughts , I am excited for the forthcoming Liverpool Lifestyle Music Awards and tickets are on sale - contact me if you want to join the celebrations and mingle with the musical elite then email meamanda@amandamosspr.uk for tickets
Our talented host, singer songwriter Anthony Russell chats about it in this issue. As always, whatever you’re up to stay stylish, love your lifestyle and most of all, fall in love with yourself.
Liverpool model, Liverpool model, Jerome Mills Jerome Mills
I became a model by starting small, uploading pictures to instagram and joining brand ambassador programs to help promote companies! I started UGC work for a couple brands and then a couple years down the line, I decided to move to Liverpool to increase chances of better opportunities and since then I have done work for Greene King Pubs, been in Liverpool Fashion Week 2024 and have had a chance to meet and connect with other models, photographers and designers all with unique styles and creative talent
To date I have modelled and created content for Hidden Hills Watches, Cocoburry, Halifornia, Hoozy, Greene King Pubs and I was featured in Liverpool Fashion Week
To fund my modelling career, I work full time in Pippins Corner on Lark Lane in Liverpool as a pot wash and food prep chef! I can honestly say I love every member off staff that I work with as they are all incredible people with massive hearts!
My dream is to take my modelling further and be a clothing model that models for multiple brands regularly and enjoys showing off what businesses and designers can create as every style is unique and deserves to be recognised to fit each customers own personal style.
One of the hardest parts of being in the modelling industry, especially when you’re first starting, is just finding jobs. There is lots of competition in the industry and different agents and businesses are looking for different things. My advice would be to always reach out and connect with new people regularly! You never know when you might meet someone that knows someone that has potential work for you so connections are extremely important.
JEROME
BehaviourSpecialist18mthsto4years
Weaning
FeedingSupportBreast/Bottle
Let me introduce myself, my name is Katie-Jane, I have worked in my professional field as as a Maternity Nurse, Paediatric Sleep Consultant, Behaviour Specialist , Feeding Specialist (Breast or bottle), Post Birth Educator for 30 years.
I feel very blessed and fortunate to have a profession which allows me to spend every day helping parents to gain knowledge and confidence to enter the journey into parenthood whilst making it a little less daunting over the days, weeks, months, years ahead.
My wonderful business ‘The International Baby Whisperer Ltd’ has evolved and grown over the past 30 years to become a highly referred ‘port of call’ for all those parents and parents-to-be to reach out and make contact looking for help, guidance,support and knowledge in those early days, months and years post birth.
Offering face to face and online support 24/7
Insta: theinternationalbabywhisperer
Fb: theinternationalbabywhisperer
Google Reviews: The International Baby Whisperer
PottyTraining
How long have you been a musician and how did you get into the industry?
I was really into music as a kid and my mum used to play LPs in the house I started singing on the streets when I was 7/8 years of age in 1996/97. I did my first gig in the Banjo pub singing Oasis and other artists. I was singing all the time in school and on the streets and parks growing up round the city
Did appearing on the X -Factor change anything for you?
I got into the music scene and a taste of the industry by going on X Factor I went on three times! The first time at 16 in 2007, second time at 27 in 2017 then into the finals at 28 in 2018 I came 3r. ,Louis Tomlinson really helped me and it was the start of my journey getting sober as well. He was a big help and is a good friend and a brother of mine. Since X Factor I’ve released my own music singles called “We all need Somebody” Thinand another single called “Better Things.” I have went on to release a debut album called By The River it got released in feb 10th 2023 and have done multiple shows in venues like Camp & Furnace The 02 liverpool and Bootle festival and all other shows and festivals.
How did you find the experience? It helped me a lot by putting me into the public eye as a singer.
LIVERPOOL INDEPENDENT SINGER/SONGWRITER
Anthony Russell
MUSICIAN AND HOST OF THE LIVERPOOL LIFESTYLE MUSIC AWARDS
I found the experience really uplifting refreshing exciting and loved being on live television and doing the auditions, meeeting creative new people, networking and showcasing what I could do by singing and performing.
Describe your music style
My music style is Indie/soul . I like singing about what’s going on in real life. Funk and soul jazz, rhythm and blues there’s a whole range of genres I like getting creative with but mainly Soul.
Who are your musical inspirations?
John Lennon is a big inspiration. So is Tupac Shakur Artists like Amy Winehouse, Buddy Holly is also a big inspiration aswell.
What are your goals for 2025?
The ambitions I have in 2025 are to get my music heard and to be taken serious as a independent artist singer and songwriter.
> I want to tour and to be able to perform at the pier head shows be on the big stages perform at Glastonbury plus other big festivals. I also want to support other artists feature with other artists and work with them. Just basically perform as much as I can.
I want to become a full time singer songwriter and develop my acting. I want to be more active in the music scene. I need to stop drinking so much coffee.
You’re hosting the first Lifestyle Music Awards in Liverpool in April to champion artists from around the region, are you looking forward to this?
I’m really am excited , it’s a real honour when I got asked I was like yes!! Liveroool is the city of music - the heritage, the rawness and distinctive. It’s always had its own unique style,there’s no one like us. It’s all happening in Liverpool lately and it’s a big honour to be part of it. I can’t wait for it, These awards are going to be very exciting and interesting.
Spotting the Red Flags: How to Identify a Toxic Narcissist in
The Charm Offensive - Beware the Love Bomber!
Narcissists often exude charm and flattery, making you feel special initially. However, if their appeal feels insincere or overwhelming, it may be a tactic to quickly secure your affection.
Excessive
Self-Importance
Notice how your date speaks about themselves. Narcissists frequently boast and expect admiration; if they seem to believe they deserve special treatment while seeking constant validation, consider it a red flag
Lack
of Empathy
Healthy relationships rely on emotional understanding. If your date dismisses your feelings or redirects conversations back to themselves, it indicates a lack of empathy a telling sign of narcissism.
Manipulative Behaviour
Narcissists are adept manipulators who may twist conversations or adopt a victim mentality. If you find yourself feeling guilty or responsible for their emotions, reassess the relationship.
Dating
Instability in Relationships
Observe how your date discusses past partners. Narcissists often shift blame and struggle with stability, frequently playing the victim
Boundary Issues
Respect and boundaries are vital. Narcissists might test or ignore your limits, seeing them as challenges If your date often oversteps, take heed.
Trust Your Instincts
Spotting a narcissist requires vigilance. If you recognise these traits, consider distancing yourself. Trust your instincts; you deserve a partner who respects you and values your individuality. Protecting your emotional health is paramount
How to Spot a Narcissist - The Circus Question Tool
My Circus Question is a powerful tool for dating success. By identifying your circus role, you can uncover traits that resonate with your personality. My unique Circology system assigns values on a polarity spectrum, clarifying ideal partner dynamics. This understanding helps highlight potential pitfalls and enhances your engagement with prospective partners. Follow the link below to my website and details about my new Circology App where you can transform your dating experience at your fingertips!
TOP SIGNS YOUR PARTNER
MIGHT BE CHEATING
Infidelity is one of the most painful experiences a person can endure, yet it’s a reality for many. Senior private investigator John Eastham from Private Investigations UK, with over two decades of experience uncovering the truth, shares the key signs to watch out for if you suspect your partner may be unfaithful.
“People often dismiss their gut feelings, but they’re rarely wrong, In my line of work, I’ve seen how subtle changes in behaviour can reveal a lot. By recognising the signs early, you can make informed decisions about your relationship.”
- John Eastham
Unexplained Changes in Routine – Late-night meetings, new hobbies, or an increase in work trips could suggest something is amiss.
Guarded Technology Habits – If they’re suddenly protective of their phone, clearing browser histories, or stepping out to take calls, it’s worth noting.
Unexplained Expenses – Mysterious charges on bank statements for hotels, gifts, or dating apps can leave a paper trail.
A Change in Appearance – A sudden investment in their looks without involving you might raise eyebrows.
Lack
of
Intimacy or Overcompensation
–
Cheaters may withdraw affection or, conversely, become overly generous out of guilt.
Emotional Withdrawal – If they’ve stopped engaging with you emotionally, they may be engaging elsewhere.
Strange Social Media Activity – Increased secrecy or unexplained interactions on platforms could be revealing.
Gut Instinct – Your intuition is often your strongest clue.
NEW figures show that Liverpool City Council’s CCTV network was involved in dealing with 3,186 incidents of crime and anti-social behaviour in 2024.
A total of 480 cameras covering large areas of the city are monitored 24 hours a day from a central control room, transmitting the images along 175km of fibre optic cables.
Working with colleagues from Merseyside Police and Merseytravel, City Watch staff are able to react to incidents as they happen.
Over the last 12 months, they have been involved in dealing with the following number of incidents:
Assaults - 557
Thefts - 472
Anti-social behaviour - 475
Knife crime - 203
Domestic abuse - 186
Missing persons - 177
Criminal damage - 167
Drugs - 159
Begging/street drinking - 141
Flytipping, littering, graffiti - 125
Examples of success include:
A man acting suspiciously was followed on CCTV from Gwladys Street to County Rd, and arrested for burglary and assault on a pregnant woman
A street beggar who had stolen a mobile phone was tracked on CCTV and arrested
A man who had stolen a purse was picked up on CCTV and intercepted by police officers, with the item returned to the victim before she had noticed it was missing. It emerged that the offender was wanted for 13 offences including burglary and breaching bail conditions
Following a report of a man with a knife on Prescot Road, the suspect was tracked on CCTV until police arrived, arrested him and recovered a bladed weapon.
Footage captured by the CCTV network is often used by Council teams to supply evidence in flytipping and taxi licensing offences.
CADIJA CANDE,ARTIST & MODEL
Hi, I am Cadja. I am 21 years old and I live in Salford, Manchester I am a freelance model at the moment and I got into modelling because a friend of mine wanted me to walk for her final exam in her textiles project at university. I really enjoyed the experience and explored modelling further, and I was lucky to be scouted for Liverpool Fashion Week I’ve been a fine artist for the last eight years, It has become so successful. My work is now on display at Manchester’s art gallery and I was an art agent during
the British art show . Art and fashion go hand in hand and love being in such a diverse and creative industry. My tyle is a mix of old school glamour and new I love a casual/ formal look,and mixup fast fashion with timeless vintage pieces I look up to my mum Sali a lot, she’s a woman of her word and as I grew up she has become my hero. I also look up to my sister Lids a lot too even though she’s younger she’s very inspiring and really kind hearted too I aspire to have her mindset one day. My dream is to become a worldwide model
13 OCTOBER 2025
I am looking forward to the Cyprus Lifestyle Fashion Show in May where I will be modelling I have a lot to learn and I am really excited about the future and the opportunities coming . Being a black woman in this industry can be an obstacle but I won’t let it get in my way I have been failed and let down by a bunch of modelling agencies due to my skin being too dark, or the editing would turn me so light in the pictures I couldn’t post them because it wasn’t my natural skin colour I believe in being authentic and I am proud of the way I look I have a lot to offer.
Modelling is a great industry to get into, it gives you so much confidence about yourself, and it’s great for networking and meeting photographers, stylists, models and editors There’s no point worrying about how you look, just take care of yourself with a healthy diet and mindset and the world is yours to conquer!
TURN HEADS IN 2025
Participating in Liverpool Fashion Week was an incredible experience that truly elevated my journey as a designer It provided me with a platform to showcase my unique designs to a diverse audience, allowing me to connect with fashion enthusiasts, industry professionals, and potential collaborators
Being part of such a prestigious event exposed me to the broader fashion world and opened doors to even greater opportunities. Through Liverpool Fashion Week, I gained visibility and recognition that led to invitations to showcase my work across the UK and solidified my presence in the fashion industry.
The experience challenged me creatively and professionally, allowing me to refine my craft while networking with top brands and designers. It was a pivotal moment in my career, inspiring me to continue pushing boundaries and sharing my vision on larger platforms.” - Mary Egboye, Emaz Artistry
Hydration packageI.v drip and skin booster
£170
Relax and Reset
Back, neck & shoulder massage, Japanese head spa and a B12
£100
Mother’s Day packages
1- Japanese head spa
£65
2- Japanese head spa with either dermaplane/ ice globe facial/hopi ear candling
£85
3- full body massage £30
4- full body massage & ice globe facial £50
New Blog
DO YOU HAVE A FAVOURITE CHILD?
Having 6 children has definitely made me a target for judgment over the years Mostly because people can’t relate to or understand how having such a big family can tick. People jump to conclusions; I must be religious or am pro life or in the words of the most unoriginal and unfunny comment of all, lack a television. People have assumed I’m on benefits or super rich. I am neither. People just can’t imagine how anyone could handle that many, or they assume it’s too much, or they simply project their own discomfort onto me.
It takes a strong and confident woman to have six children and an even stronger person to brush off the comments, some that bordered on bullying in the workplace in my past. The question I am frequently asked is do I have a favourite child?
I find this utterly incomprehensible as I love all my children equally. They’ve all developed into wonderful humans with their own unique intelligence and qualities that I am proud of. Each of them bring something special to my family dynamic,
and it is so rewarding to see them grow into their own unique selves. It’s so important to give them all space and at the same time nurture so many individual strong personalities. I grew up feeling unloved with my older brother being the ‘golden child” Both my brothers went to private schools, I didn’t I was always being compared to my older brother and made to feel that I was never enough. This has led to a lifetime of me feeling not good enough and always wanting attention and overachieving. I have brought my kids up to be best friends with each other. I always said that their siblings are the only ones they can rely on when they’re older as friends will let them down and to this day they have listened to me. I can confidently say that my kids do not feel one is given more attention or love than another Like all humans, my kids have different temperaments, needs, and personalities. I may have more in common with one or two than another but that doesn’t mean I love the others any less. The idea that love can be "unequal" is unsettling. I have a unique bond with all my children and I think I understand them. I hope they feel they can turn to me for support, I’ve made that very clear.
by Amanda Moss
Love isn’t a fixed amount that you divide up in equal measurements. For me and my children it just expands. I can praise one child for an achievement without have to go round the room pointing out every other’s perfections at the same time. Praise for one of my children doesn’t diminish my love for the others.
So back to the question, do I have a favourite child? The answer is no. People do tend to gravitate toward those who reflect parts of themselves but I see bits of my personality in all of my kids. Whether you have one kid or six, the depth of that love and how you show up for them is what defines you as a parent, not how many kids you have.
valentine’s cocktails with wine
Wine isn't just a stand alone drink option...it's fabulous as the foundation in cocktails as well many perfectly suited for Valentine's Day! Here are some popular cocktails by VinoVoss Master Mixologist Nikki "in the Mix" Bonkowski.
Wine is a versatile base for a variety of other specialty cocktails delivering unique and complex flavor profiles. Below are some quick and easy wine based cocktails sure to satisfy.
1. French 75
Ingredients: Champagne, gin, lemon juice, simple syrup
Description: A classic cocktail that combines bubbly Champagne with the botanicals of gin, brightened with a touch of lemon.
2. Mulled Wine
Ingredients: Red wine, spices (cinnamon, cloves, star anise), citrus, honey
Description: A warm, spiced wine drink, perfect for colder weather, often served during the holidays.
3. Red Wine Negroni
Ingredients: Red wine, Campari, sweet vermouth
Description: A twist on the classic Negroni, using red wine in place of gin for a more complex, wineforward flavor.
4. Gloria
Ingredients: White wine, gin, citrus, sugar
Description: A Spanish cocktail mixing gin and white wine with a citrusy sweetness.
5. Port & Tonic
Ingredients: White port wine, tonic water, lime
Description: A crisp and refreshing cocktail where white port wine is mixed with tonic and a hint of citrus.
6. New York Sour
Ingredients: Bourbon, lemon juice, simple syrup, red wine (usually a dry variety)
Description: A twist on the traditional whiskey sour, topped with a float of red wine for depth and color.
7. Wine Mojito
Ingredients: White wine, mint, lime, simple syrup, soda water
Description: A refreshing take on the classic mojito, using white wine in place of rum for a lighter, fruity version
8. Kir Royale
Ingredients: Champagne, crème de cassis (blackcurrant liqueur)
Description: A simple but elegant cocktail, where crème de cassis adds sweetness and color to sparkling wine.
9. Aperol Spritz
Ingredients: Prosecco, Aperol, soda water
Description: A refreshing, slightly bitter cocktail with a bright orange hue.
10. Bellini
Ingredients: Prosecco, peach puree
Description: A fruity and elegant cocktail made with bubbly Prosecco and sweet peach puree.
11. Mimosa
Ingredients: Champagne, orange juice
Description: A brunch favorite that mixes Champagne with freshly squeezed orange juice for a light, citrusy cocktail.
12. White Wine Spritzer
Ingredients: White wine, club soda, fruit garnish
Description: A light, fizzy drink made by diluting white wine with club soda, perfect for a casual afternoon.
Nicolette "Nikki" Bonkowski is a wine craft cocktail expert with the "VinoVoss"—an AI Sommelier
Liverpool residents looking to
achieve and maintain a healthy weight can get support from a brand new service that has now launched.
Liv Life Liverpool is free to access for anyone in the city and is informed by the findings set out in Public Health Liverpool’s groundbreaking State of Health in the Cuty: Liverpool 2040 report. The programme is underpinned by behaviour change approaches following consultation with partners including the NHS, as well as the wider community. The aim is to support up to about 1,000 families and 2,000 adults in the first year.
Anyone can sign up for Liv Life Liverpool via the website, they do not have to be referred by a professional, but need to meet am eligible criteria before a personalised plan is developed.
Designed to support individuals, families and pregnant women, Liv Life Liverpool will also be aligned with the council’s Neighbourhood Model to ensure that services throughout Liverpool’s communities will be engaged.
Liv Life Life Liverpool plans last for 12 weeks and include:
One-to-one coaching, with sessions taking place either in person or virtually
Weigh-and-stay or weigh-and-go groups
Physical activity groups.
There will also be on-the-go support from the free Best-You app which can also help with reducing alcohol consumption and stopping smoking. All the different elements of the programme have been tailored to support people to develop knowledge and practical skills around food and cooking and physical activity which will ensure a successful and sustainable journey towards achieving a healthy weight.
Almost two thirds of adults in Liverpool, 63 per cent, are overweight and about a quarter of children start primary school overweight, increasing to one in three children aged 11 being overweight or obese by the time they enter secondary school.
Liverpool City Council’s cabinet member for Culture, Health and Wellbeing Cllr Harry Doyle said: “Liv Life Liverpool is a brilliant toolbox for residents to use to support them to eat healthily and to get more active.
“Trying to achieve a healthy weight can be daunting for many people. The team at ICE Creates understands this so have developed an evidence-based programme that has plenty of support built in to make sure that change is not only sustainable but enjoyable.
“Whilst losing excess weight is important for reducing the likelihood of serious health conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure and type-2 diabetes, Liv Life Liverpool is about more than just the numbers on a scale. It’s about building healthy habits that will last a lifetime.”
Follow all of Liverpool City Council’s news at www.liverpoolexpress.co.uk
In2024Ollyfulfilledachildhood fantasyofrepresentingtheUKin theEurovisionSongContest, flyingtheflagasonlyhecouldin thefirstpreviewofPolari,‘Dizzy’. InalbumPolari,Ollyexplores themesofdesire,intimacy, voyeurismandfateallwrapped upinapoundingclub soundscape.Polariisultimately anopenanduniversalpoprecord aboutthoseneedsthattranscend time,sexuality,andself:whatit meanstobelong,tobe loved,andtoconnect.
By Manish Kumar Arora
A Leo ( 23 July – 22 August ) - This could be a good time for you to look for a new job or get a second job, try to get recognition at work, or improve your working environment You may see things that you’ve been working on for a long time finally come to fruition n
Aries ( 21 March–19 April ) – Your creativity and social life are stimulated this month and plenty of opportunities to express yourself uniquely will present themselves. Pleasure-seeking activities, recreation, and amusement are increased.
Virgo ( 23 August – 22 September ) -Your goals and wishes tend to be broad and perhaps unusual or ahead of the times just now. You may particularly enjoy dreaming up ideas for the future. Others especially value your advice and often turn to you for help
Libra ( 23 September – 22 October ) -You are more determined to achieve your personal goals, and more strategic in the manner you go about doing so Pouring your heart and soul into your efforts comes naturally now. Income from your business or career is likely to increase.
Scorpio 23 October – 21
November You have an easier time dealing with your career. Any moves you make have a greater chance of going well. Those of you in business for yourself could see profit
Taurus ( 20 April – 20 May ) - You feel more enthusiastic and want to try new things. You could find you’re put in the spotlight for something, or get recognition for work you’ve done. You’re finding more than usual enjoyment from group or friend activities
Gemini ( 21 May – 20 June ) –This is a good time to clear things out of your life that you no longer need to make room for the good things to come An exciting friendship connection could be made in that opens up doors for you–but do watch for deceptions and self-deceptions.
Cancer ( 21 June – 22 July ) –It’s time to make a change in your life, one that really transforms you and your life. You are radiating energy that makes you more attractive, and as a result, opportunities are that much stronger for romantic attention
Sagittarius (22 Nov-21 Dec) -
Fortunate events occur as a direct result of your willingness to entertain the unusual and to think outside of the box. You are feeling brave, positive, and optimistic. New opportunities through friendships, group associations, and other forms of networking might arise.
Capricorn ( 22 Dec– 19 Jan ) -
You may begin to take on more responsibilities on the job or in another service-oriented capacity. There is likely going to be a big struggle regarding your career for many of you–whether to stay where you are or to explore new opportunities.
Aquarius ( 20 Jan– 18 Feb ) –
You are open to new energies, approaches, and attitudes. Your mind is quicker, sharper, and you come up with ideas faster. Surprising events occur now that serve to jolt you out of your usual routine, particularly when it comes to friendships, finances, and career.
Pisces ( 19 Feb– 20 March )This is a time to invest in yourself and in the people around you that you respect. Projects begun now can have long-term benefits. Finances are likely to be quite reliable or under control now.
Fall in love onboard the award winning Floating Grace
If you’re looking for skipper Peter Kenny, you’ll find him at the Royal Albert Dock onboard The Floating Grace. He is the proud owner of Liverpool’s only floating restaurant, a beautiful 50 seater floating bar and restaurant that serves delicious three course dinners and afternoon teas while you can enjoy Liverpool’s finest waterways with a guided tour of the history of the docks.The fresh food is prepared by award-winning chefs and served piping hot. They offer a variety of cruises, including lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner cruises. They also offer a variety of private and corporate event packages.
Peter has been a sailor since he was 6 years old under the guidance of his father and has been on boats all his life with his family who introduced him to the water. For many years he ran a private boat hire business from Liverpool Marina until he swapped it for the canal boat, The Floating Grace, which has won several business awards.
Working closely with army veterans, who he passionately supports, he runs a tight ship sailing every weekend and most evenings.
I love being on the water and love telling people about the rich history of the Royal Albert Docks. Liverpool has some of the richest history in the world.”
A typical cruise will start off onboard with some drinks and an introduction to Liverpool’s docks by the skipper. A brief guided tour will then proceed as you enjoy a gentle sail through the Liverpool South Dock whilst the food is served Once the meal is over the party begins with music and dancing until it is time to dock. It’s a fabulous experience and a lot of fun and everyone leaves with a smile on their faces
